Senate Passes Peters’ Bipartisan Bill to Improve Safety and Security of U.S. Pipeline Infrastructure

WASHINGTON, DC – The Senate unanimously passed bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to improve the safety and security of pipeline infrastructure in Michigan and throughout the United States. The Pipeline Integrity, Protection, and Enhancement for Leveraging Investments in the Nation’s Energy to Assure Safety (PIPELINE) Safety Act would reauthorize and significantly increase funding for the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s (PHMSA) safety programs for five years. These critical programs help Michigan effectively inspect and enforce safety standards for more than 100,000 miles of pipeline currently in operation throughout the state. The bill additionally requires pipeline operators to protect against the growing threat of cyberattacks, such as the Colonial Pipeline attack in 2023.

The bill also includes a provision led by Peters to pave the way for a PHMSA “National Center of Excellence for Hazardous Liquid Pipeline Leak Detection.” The center would conduct research into state-of-the-art pipeline leak detection technologies that can help efficiently identify a spill and improve our response to a potential incident. If passed into law, the center would be established in the Great Lakes region.

“We must ensure our pipeline infrastructure remains strong. This bipartisan bill will help protect both public safety and our environment by working to prevent accidents and improve protections for this critical infrastructure,” said Senator Peters, Ranking Member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Freight, Pipelines, and Safety. “Michiganders particularly know that we must do all we can to prevent a Great Lakes oil spill. I’m proud this bill has a provision I fought for to establish a Center of Excellence in the Great Lakes region to strengthen our ability to detect and respond to potential dangerous pipeline leaks.”

“Michigan Tech greatly appreciates Senator Peters’ leadership in advancing a National Center of Excellence for Pipeline Hazardous Liquid Leak Detection through the Pipeline Safety Reauthorization Act,” said Michigan Technological University’s President Richard Koubek. “By bringing together government, industry, and academia, the Center would help advance research, improve detection technologies, and strengthen pipeline safety nationwide. Michigan Tech appreciates the opportunity to support Senator Peters’ vision of protecting the environment while supporting the nation’s critical energy and industrial needs.”

Peters introduced the Pipeline Integrity, Protection, and Enhancement for Leveraging Investments in the Nation’s Energy to Assure Safety (PIPELINE) Safety Act alongside U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Todd Young (R-IN).

Peters has made it a priority to strengthen U.S. pipeline infrastructure and improve our response to pipeline spills. In 2018, he authored and passed legislation creating the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise to study the impacts of oil spills in freshwater environments and help develop effective responses to protect the Great Lakes. Peters then announced that the Center would be dual headquartered in Michigan at Lake Superior State University (LSSU) in Sault Ste. Marie and the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory in Ann Arbor to maximize its research and operational capabilities. Peters led the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Center for Freshwater Research and Education at LSSU, which is home to the Center of Expertise, in 2022.

As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Peters has continued to advocate for additional funding to support the Great Lakes Center of Expertise’s work. Peters also introduced legislation to help federal agencies more quickly and effectively respond to potential oil spills on the Great Lakes and elsewhere. In 2021, Peters applauded the U.S. Department of Transportation’s decision to formally implement a provision of his PIPES Act, which designated the Great Lakes as an Unusually Sensitive Area, subjecting pipelines operating in the area to higher standards for operating safely.

As Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, Peters plays a key role in uniting Great Lakes Basin Senators to coordinate legislative initiatives, funding priorities, and oversight efforts to address the most important issues facing the Great Lakes, such as invasive species, environmental contamination, shoreline erosion, water quality, infrastructure needs, and more.

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In Case You Missed It…  Sen. Rick Scott Joins Coinbase Crypto Panel in Miami with House Whip Tom Emmer

MIAMI, Fla. – Yesterday, Senator Rick Scott participated in a Solana Policy Institute panel on the future of American cryptocurrency. U.S. Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), House Majority Whip, joined Senator Scott as a panelist.

The conversation centered around legislation to ban a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), the Clarity Act, and the intersection of national security and cryptocurrency.

The full discussion can be foundHEREor by clicking the photo above.

HIGHLIGHTS:

ON BANNING CBDCs:

Senator Scott said, “Do not trust government. So, if you don’t trust government, there’s no way you should allow the federal government to have a digital currency… They’ll use it to hurt you… They target people. That’s what governments do.”

ON THE CLARITY ACT:

Senator Scott said,“In my business life, my biggest problem was always government. And the reason government is a problem is because there’s uncertainty. When we don’t have certainty, it makes it very difficult in business to actually do anything… We ought to allow competition and we’ll get innovation and people will bring the technology back to the United States.”

ON MAKING AMERICA THE CRYPTO CAPITAL OF THE WORLD:

Senator Scott said, “Government has just got to get the hell out of the way and let people go innovate. If there’s new legislation we have to do or fix regulations or things like that, we should do that, but I think the business community will go and do that on its own. The public wants this. So now people are just going to be innovative. I think they will be way more innovative than they were with the internet, so I think this is a big opportunity.”


During National Small Business Week, Senator Rosen Holds Discussion with Reno Small Business Owners About the Impacts of Trump’s Policies

RENO, NV – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen hosted a roundtable discussion with local small business owners at the Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce to discuss the impacts of Trump’s policies on Nevada’s economy. Small businesses make up 99 percent of all businesses in Nevada, with 280,000 of them all over the state. As a result, Nevada has been one of the states most impacted by Donald Trump’s economic policies.

“Trump’s policies in the last year have directly impacted small businesses in our state. Reckless tariffs, harmful immigration policies, and rising prices have made it harder for small business owners and their families to make ends meet and keep their businesses afloat,” said Senator Rosen. “I will do everything that I can in the Senate to fight back against the administration’s dangerous policies, and ensure that all small businesses in our state are given the opportunity to thrive.”

“Entrepreneurs have been hit hard this last year. Rapidly increasing prices and tariffs are making it harder everyday for Nevada’s small businesses,” said Ann Silver, President and CEO of the Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce. “I am grateful to Senator Rosen for coming to Reno today to hear directly from small business owners and discuss how she can continue supporting them.”

Senator Rosen has been fighting to protect small businesses in Nevada from Donald Trump’s harmful policies. This year, she has introduced legislation to exempt small businesses and groceries from tariffs, as well as supporting Nevada’s tourism economy. Senator Rosen has also called for a Senate hearing on the state of tourism under the Trump Administration.

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Schatz Congratulates Maui Families Awarded With Federal Funding To Buy First Home

LAHAINA – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today joined a signing ceremony to meet with and congratulate Maui families impacted by the 2023 fires who are set to receive a federal award of up to $600,000 to help buy a new home. The awards, part of the county’s First-Time Homebuyer Opportunity Program, is funded by the $1.6 billion in federal Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) money Schatz secured for Maui in 2024.

“We fought for this money in Washington because we knew that for Maui to recover fully, it needed its people. And what people need above all else is the security of a stable home,” said Senator Schatz, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “There’s still so much to do to make sure West Maui is back on its feet, but days like today should give us all hope that better days are ahead and we’re going to get there together.”

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NEWS: Sen. Schiff, Bay Area Lawmakers Urge Trump Admin to Release Funding for San Francisco Bay Wildlife Refuge Complex

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and five Bay Area lawmakers urged the Trump administration to release millions of dollars of Congressionally approved funds for San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex, which have been subject to bureaucratic delay at the U.S. Department of Interior.

The San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex is an important part of the National Wildlife Refuge System, and in December 2022 and January 2023 experienced severe winter storm damage to its berms, levees, and pump stations that are critical to the Fish and Wildlife Service’s ability to protect Bay Area communities from flooding and manage and restore natural habitats.

The lawmakers expressed deep concern that the Complex has yet to receive the full $70 million allocated to them as a part of the 2025 American Relief Act, funding that is crucial to addressing winter storm damage and preventing future flooding in Northern California.

“We understand that most of these funds have not been released to the Refuge Complex. Further, we understand that the Department of the Interior is requiring any expense action over $50,000 to be approved by various Assistant Secretaries within the Department. This bureaucratic delay is unnecessary and inefficient, especially for dollars that were appropriated by Congress for major disasters three years ago,” the lawmakers wrote.

“We urgently request that you release these funds Congress has appropriated to the Complex to address storm damage and emergency repairs, protect adjacent communities and highways from flooding, and protect important Silicon Valley communities,” the lawmakers continued.

In addition to Schiff this letter is also signed by U.S. House of Representatives Ro Khanna (D-Calif-17), John Garamendi (D-Calif.-08), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif-15), Jared Huffman (D-Calif-02), and Sam Liccardo (D-Calif.-16).

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

Dear Director Nesvik:

We are writing to inquire about the status of $70 million in disaster funds included in the 2025 American Relief Act to address winter storm damage within the San Francisco Bay Refuge Complex, an important part of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Complex (Complex) includes seven National Wildlife Refuges (NWR). The Don Edwards San Francisco Bay NWR, the first urban NWR in the nation, is part of this Complex. A century and a half of urban development, pollution, and habitat destruction depleted bay habitat, eliminating more than 90 percent of shoreline wetlands and 40 percent of the bay aquatic ecosystem. This NWR Complex has restored over 30,000 acres of habitat, helping to protect migratory birds and recover endangered species.

In December 2022 and January 2023, the Complex experienced severe winter storm damage. The storms were declared a major disaster and damage was assessed by FWS Engineers in 2023. The storms damaged berms and levees that are critical to FWS’s ability to manage and restore habitats and protect adjacent communities from flooding. Disaster funds would help repair these berms and levees as well as Sears Point pump stations 1 and 2, which currently protect Highway 37 from flooding. These berms and levees prevent bay waters from inundating Silicon Valley.

We understand that most of these funds have not been released to the Refuge Complex. Further, we understand that the Department of the Interior is requiring any expense action over $50,000 to be approved by various Assistant Secretaries within the Department. This bureaucratic delay is unnecessary and inefficient, especially for dollars that were appropriated by Congress for major disasters three years ago.

We urgently request that you release these funds Congress has appropriated to the Complex to address storm damage and emergency repairs, protect adjacent communities and highways from flooding, and protect important Silicon Valley communities.

We appreciate a timely response advising us about the release of these emergency funds.

Sincerely,

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PHOTOS: Sen. Schiff Tours Barstow Community College, Highlights Helping Deliver $750,000 for Mental Health Services Program

Barstow, CA – In case you missed it, this week U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) visited Barstow Community College. While at the college, he toured their Mental Health Services Program, for which Schiff helped deliver $750,000 in federal investments, alongside Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), to increase access to unmet mental health care needs in Barstow and surrounding rural communities.

While on campus, Schiff also participated in a roundtable with students from the Mathematics, Engineering, Science, and Achievement (MESA) program, which supports underrepresented students majoring in STEM who intend to transfer to a 4-year college or university. During the roundtable, Schiff heard directly from students on the issues most important to them and discussed his efforts in Congress to make life and education more affordable for Californians.

“In this increasingly technological world, in this reasonably small, global world that is now going to be severely disrupted by AI, having a solid education in these STEM fields is just essential. I think AI is going to transform the workplace in ways that we have really never seen before and do so with a speed that will be unprecedented also. And I think that really calls on people in Congress to think anew,” said Senator Schiff.

View photos from the visit below:

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Sens. Scott, Barrasso, Colleagues Introduce No Licenses for Illegal Drivers or Truckers Act

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and John Barrasso (R-WY) introduced the No Licenses for Illegal Drivers or Truckers Act, which would require applicants for driver’s licenses, commercial driver’s licenses, and personal identification cards to be lawfully present in the United States. This bill would withhold federal highway funds from states that fail to comply and redirect those funds to states in compliance.

”America continues to suffer the consequences of Biden’s open border policies. Illegal immigrants on the road have posed a serious public safety threat in our communities as we’ve tragically seen in South Carolina. The No Licenses for Illegal Drivers or Truckers Act would improve accountability to make sure states confirm the lawful presence of driver’s license applicants and help protect the communities we call home,” said Sen. Scott

“Millions of illegal immigrants flooded into the United States under the Biden administration’s radical open border policies. Since many illegal immigrants do not speak English and cannot read road signs, these drivers make roads less safe for the law-abiding public,” said Sen. Barrasso. “While Wyoming already prohibits illegal immigrants from getting driver’s licenses, 19 states and the District of Columbia continue to issue personal and commercial driver’s licenses without verifying legal status. My legislation will ensure states follow the law and prioritize public safety.”

Joining Sens. Scott and Barrasso are Sens. John Cornyn (R-TX) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY).

Background:

Several states such as California, New York, and Washington do not require evidence of lawful presence for an applicant to receive a driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, or personal identification card. Illegal immigrants, many who do not understand English to be able to read road and traffic signs, are obtaining licenses and posing a safety risk to communities. This oversight has led to lethal accidents involving American citizens, often children at play.

The No Licenses for Illegal Drivers or Truckers Act would:

Require states to verify lawful presence of each applicant applying for a license or identification card

Direct the Department of Transportation to withhold 10% of the incompliant state’s appropriated funds from federal highway funding programs

Redistribute incompliant states’ funds to states in compliance

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ICYMI: Shaheen Raises Bipartisan INSULIN Act on MS Now as Health Care Affordability Remains Top-of-Mind for American People

**Support is growing for Shaheen’s bipartisan legislation that caps the monthly-out-of-pocket cost of insulin at $35**

(Manchester, NH) – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), co-chair of the U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus and author of the bipartisan Improving Needed Safeguards for Users of Lifesaving Insulin Now (INSULIN) Act, joined MS Now’s Chris Jansing Reports today to in part discuss the need to lower the cost of insulin as health care affordability remains top-of-mind for Americans. The Senator joined MS Now from the new Jean School of Nursing at St. Anselm College, where she held a roundtable to discuss barriers to insulin affordability with local health care leaders, advocates and Granite Staters living with Type 1 Diabetes.

Click HERE to view the full clip.

The INSULIN Act—which Shaheen leads alongside U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and John Kennedy (R-LA)—would cap the monthly-out-of-pocket cost of insulin at $35. Importantly, the legislation would create a pilot program to provide insulin at the same cost to Americans without insurance. Shaheen’s bill enjoys robust bipartisan support with seven senators from each party backing the proposal after picking up two additional cosponsors last week.

Key quotes from Shaheen on MS Now:

“I’m actually here at St. Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, at their new school of nursing, and we just had a discussion with medical providers, with those with Type 1 Diabetes, with advocates talking about the legislation that Senator Collins and I have introduced that would cap the cost of insulin at $35 a month.”

“We did that two years ago for people on Medicare, but for people who have health insurance, they’re still paying much more than that in most cases. So this would cap the cost of insulin, and it would set up a pilot program for people who don’t have health insurance to be able to cover the cost of insulin for them, as well.”

“As you point out, this is a number one issue for my constituents who are worried about how they’re going to be able to pay for their health insurance. And this President has done nothing to address it.”

Click HERE to view bill text.

The INSULIN Act would directly address the root problems in the insulin market causing high list prices, while simultaneously extending vital patient protections, fostering competition and broadening access to needed insulin products.

Specifically, the INSULIN Act:

Limits out-of-pocket costs for patients with diabetes by ensuring that group and individual market health plans must waive any deductible and limit cost-sharing to no more than $35 per month for at least one insulin of each type and dosage form.

Mandates pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) pass through 100% of insulin rebates and other discounts received from manufacturers to plan sponsors, reducing perverse incentives in the insulin market that encourage high list prices and help patients in the form of reduced premiums.

Promotes generic and biosimilar competition to lower costs for patients.

Creates a pilot grant program for 10 states to implement programs to identify uninsured diabetes patients and provide them with insulin at $35 a month.

Establishes an insulin resource center and hotline for uninsured diabetes patients to connect them with resources about diabetes and programs to help them secure insulin.

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Shaheen Highlights Bipartisan Bill to Cap the Cost of Insulin at Health Care Roundtable, Visits Projects for Which She Secured Funding and Talks Tariffs with Local Business on “Affordability Action Tour”

**Shaheen’s bipartisan legislation caps the monthly out-of-pocket cost of insulin at $35 for Americans with insurance and creates a pilot program to provide insulin at the same price to the uninsured**

(Hudson, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), co-chair of the U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus, continued her “Affordability Action Tour” with a roundtable discussion on the high cost of insulin at the Jean School of Nursing at St. Anselm College. The Senator also visited Nashua Community College to hear about efforts to prepare Granite State students for high demand jobs, including through programs for which Shaheen secured federal funding. Shaheen ended the day at W.H. Bagshaw Company to talk with Granite Staters about how tariffs, inflation and rising input costs have impacted their operations.

Photos from today’s events can be found HERE.

At the Jean School of Nursing at St. Anselm College, Shaheen convened a roundtable with Manchester health care leaders, nurses and Granite Staters living with diabetes to discuss the barriers too many individuals face in accessing affordable insulin. Shaheen highlighted how her bipartisan INSULIN Act would help make insulin more accessible by capping the monthly-out-of-pocket costs at $35 for Americans with insurance. Critically, Shaheen’s bipartisan bill would create a pilot program to make affordable insulin more accessible for Americans without insurance.

“I know firsthand how difficult it has become to afford the lifesaving insulin so many patients fighting diabetes require daily just to stay alive. By capping the out-of-pocket cost of insulin at $35 a month, my bipartisan INSULIN Act will address this issue—lowering health care costs for millions of families across our country,” said Senator Shaheen. “Health care costs continue to rise in this country, yet President Trump has done nothing to fix it. My INSULIN Act does, and I’m committed to getting it passed in my final year in Congress.”

As co-chair of the U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus, Senator Shaheen has consistently pressed to hold insulin manufacturers, insurers and pharmacy benefit managers accountable for the skyrocketing cost of lifesaving insulin and otherwise support patients and families facing diabetes.

Later, Shaheen visited Nashua Community College (NCC) to discuss their efforts preparing Granite Staters for high demand jobs in key sectors—including at NCC’s Early Childhood Education Lab, Air Traffic Control Lab and Soldering Bootcamp.

“The work of Nashua Community College to equip future generations of Granite State students with the skills they need to fill gaps in high demand sectors, from air traffic control to child care, is vital to our local economies,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was proud to secure federal funding to support these programs, which will increase the supply of workers in key sectors, such as child care, and lower costs for Granite State families.”

Shaheen secured $933,500 in Congressionally Directed Spending in Fiscal Year (FY) 26 funding legislation to support the college’s Early Childhood Center, which aims to improve the availability of high-quality childcare. Shaheen also secured $192,000 in FY23 Congressionally Directed Spending for the NCC Soldering Bootcamp to equip students with the education and hands-on skill development they need to enter the workforce and power local Granite State economies.

Shaheen concluded the day at W.H. Bagshaw, a historic, family-owned Granite State business and the nation’s oldest pin manufacturer that recently opened a newly renovated manufacturing facility in Hudson. During their discussion and tour of the facility, Shaheen raised how businesses across the Granite State are struggling to manage the economic fallouts of the President’s war in Iran, including rising inflation and higher input costs, on top of the Administration’s reckless tariffs.

"President Trump’s reckless tariffs and war in Iran are making everything more expensive for Granite State businesses and their employees,” said Senator Shaheen. “W.H. Bagshaw, like so many family-owned businesses in our state, is having to contend with these added costs. I was glad to see their new facility today and discuss how Congress can better support the good jobs created by Granite State businesses, including by addressing the high cost of housing and child care.”

As the former Chair of the U.S. Senate Small Business Committee, Shaheen has championed efforts to support New Hampshire’s small businesses and entrepreneurs. That includes helping lead efforts in Congress to mitigate the harmful impacts of President Trump's tariffs on Main Street. Shaheen has traveled across the Granite State to discuss the impact of tariffs on New Hampshire’s tourism industry and to visit businesses impacted by President Trump’s trade war. Earlier this year, Shaheen led the introduction of the Speedy Tariff Refund Act, legislation that would require full refunds of President Trump’s illegal tariffs after they were struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court by a 6-3 vote.

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Delegation’s Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act Signed into Law

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) today issued the following statements after their Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act was signed into law by President Trump. The bipartisan legislation will accelerate the review and processing of mortgages on trust land by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA).

“For years, affordable housing opportunities on tribal trust land have been hard to come by in South Dakota and across the nation due in part to the BIA’s challenging mortgage approval process,” said Thune. “With the enactment of our legislation, this mortgage approval process will now be expedited, encouraging homeownership across Indian Country. I’m grateful to Senator Mike Rounds and Congressman Dusty Johnson for co-leading this bill with me, and I thank President Trump for signing it into law.”

“I’m pleased that President Trump has signed our Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act into law,” said Rounds. “The process of getting a mortgage on tribal trust land is long and bureaucratic, requiring approval from the BIA that is supposed to take 30 days but often takes over one year. This legislation will require the BIA to follow a statutory timeline when processing mortgages for houses and businesses on tribal trust land. This is a long-overdue win for tribal communities in South Dakota.”

“Buying a home or business on tribal trust land is about to get a whole lot easier,” said Johnson. “I’m grateful President Trump signed our Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act into law to improve access to homeownership on tribal lands. Big thanks to Leader John Thune and Senator Mike Rounds for their efforts to support tribal communities by cutting through government bureaucracy at the BIA.”

“Senator Thune has strongly supported expanding homeownership opportunities on tribal land since his early days in the Senate,” said Sharon Vogel, board chair of the South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition and executive director of the Cheyenne River Housing Authority in Eagle Butte. “From the beginning, he has focused on prioritizing and streamlining mortgage-related processes within the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act advances that work. We appreciate his vision and leadership in making homeownership more accessible for Native families.”

“At the National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC), we deeply appreciate the growing attention and commitment from Congress to tackle the housing challenges facing tribal nations,” said Rudy Soto, executive director of NAIHC. “By removing unnecessary bureaucratic delays, this bill helps unlock opportunity for Native families, strengthens pathways to homeownership, and supports economic mobility in our communities. We look forward to continued collaboration to build on this momentum and ensure tribal housing is fully included in the broader national housing agenda.”

The Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act will create statutory timelines for the BIA to process mortgages involving property located on tribal trust land. Additionally, it will enhance the ability of certain federal agencies to operate their tribal housing programs and establish a realty ombudsman within the BIA to improve communication with tribes, tribal members, and lenders. The bill passed the Senate on December 12, 2025, and passed the House of Representatives on March 4, 2026.


Maryland Delegation Members Press Trump Administration for Transparency on Fuel Spill at Joint Base Andrews

U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks and U.S. Representatives Glenn Ivey, Steny Hoyer, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, Sarah Elfreth, April McClain Delaney, and Johnny Olszewski (all D-Md.) wrote to Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink, pressing him on the lack of transparency around a leak of over 30,000 gallons of jet fuel at Joint Base Andrews in Prince George’s County earlier this year – which resulted in over 20,000 gallons of fuel released into the environment, contaminating soil outside the base and the nearby Piscataway Creek. In the letter, the lawmakers expressed concerns over the Air Force’s critical delay in providing full information regarding the leak to the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) – the state entity charged with responding to environmental pollution incidents – stressing that their failure to promptly notify for many weeks prevented MDE from implementing measures to minimize the spread of the contamination. They asked for answers to a series of questions regarding the status of the fuel leak’s spread and containment efforts; current systems in place to detect such incidents and whether the Air Force has plans to improve them; and planned measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future, among others.

“We write regarding the recent fuel spill incident reported at Joint Base Andrews and to request additional information regarding both the discharge and the response actions taken,” the lawmakers began. “Joint Base Andrews notified the State of Maryland of a jet fuel leak after fuel odors and a visible fuel sheen were observed in Piscataway Creek on March 23, 2026. Subsequent correspondence confirmed that approximately 32,000 gallons of jet fuel had leaked across multiple dates and locations. Of this amount, 10,000 gallons from January and February incidents were reportedly contained within the system, while approximately 22,000 gallons of fuel were discharged into the environment, contaminating soils and nearby Piscataway Creek.”

Underscoring the harmful consequences of the Air Force’s delay in notifying MDE, they wrote, “While containment efforts were significantly improved around April 15-16 following site visits and feedback from officials, earlier implementation of more effective measures could have reduced the extent of contamination reaching the creek.”

“Legacy pollution from Joint Base Andrews has already resulted in PFAS contamination in Piscataway Creek and the surrounding area, and this fuel spill adds to existing environmental stressors affecting the watershed. The release has the potential to cause further ecological harm to the Piscataway Creek, which flows into the Potomac River, a key Chesapeake Bay tributary. It is of the utmost importance that Joint Base Andrews fully assess and remediate any damage caused by this leak and take protective measures to prevent an incident like this from happening again in the future,” the lawmakers stressed, going on to list a series of questions for the Air Force Secretary’s response.

“We appreciate your prompt attention to these questions and request a briefing for our offices and your detailed written response. Given the scale of the discharge and the potential environmental impacts, timely and transparent communication will be critical,” they concluded.

Text of the letter, including the questions posed to Secretary Meink, can be viewed here and below.

Dear Secretary Meink,

We write regarding the recent fuel spill incident reported at Joint Base Andrews and to request additional information regarding both the discharge and the response actions taken.

Joint Base Andrews notified the State of Maryland of a jet fuel leak after fuel odors and a visible fuel sheen were observed in Piscataway Creek on March 23, 2026. Subsequent correspondence confirmed that approximately 32,000 gallons of jet fuel had leaked across multiple dates and locations. Of this amount, 10,000 gallons from January and February incidents were reportedly contained within the system, while approximately 22,000 gallons of fuel were discharged into the environment, contaminating soils and nearby Piscataway Creek.

We also understand that containment berms were installed on March 24 and 25; however, initial containment measures were insufficient to prevent the spread of contamination to Piscataway Creek, particularly during moderate rainfall events. While containment efforts were significantly improved around April 15-16 following site visits and feedback from officials, earlier implementation of more effective measures could have reduced the extent of contamination reaching the creek. We also understand that there was a notable delay between when Joint Base Andrews discovered the fuel leak and when the State of Maryland received full information about the complete spill volume, with Joint Base Andrews failing to provide final figures until April 8.

Legacy pollution from Joint Base Andrews has already resulted in PFAS contamination in Piscataway Creek and the surrounding area, and this fuel spill adds to existing environmental stressors affecting the watershed. The release has the potential to cause further ecological harm to the Piscataway Creek, which flows into the Potomac River, a key Chesapeake Bay tributary. It is of the utmost importance that Joint Base Andrews fully assess and remediate any damage caused by this leak and take protective measures to prevent an incident like this from happening again in the future.

Given the seriousness of this incident, we request clarification on the following:

Please provide a detailed timeline of when each leak was first detected, internally reported, and externally communicated. What factors contributed to the delay in reporting the full spill volume, and what role did coordination with the Defense Logistics Agency play in this process?

What is the current estimate of fuel that has migrated into Piscataway Creek versus what remains in the ground?

What means and methodology is Joint Base Andrews using to measure the fuel loss that provides the basis for this estimate?

What immediate and long-term remediation strategies are being implemented to address contamination in both soil and water?

What measures will be taken to ensure effective containment of the contaminated area during rainfall or other adverse conditions?

What monitoring systems are currently in place to detect future leaks, and are there plans to upgrade or enhance these systems?

What steps are being taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future, including any plans to inspect this and other underground fuel storage and transportation infrastructure for both internal and external corrosion following this release?

How will ongoing updates be communicated to regulatory agencies and the public moving forward?

Lastly, what impacts has the leak had on base operations, if any?

We appreciate your prompt attention to these questions and request a briefing for our offices and your detailed written response. Given the scale of the discharge and the potential environmental impacts, timely and transparent communication will be critical.

Sincerely,


Van Hollen, Alsobrooks Announce Nearly $70 Million for Maryland Infrastructure and Community Development Projects

Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD), and Senator Angela Alsobrooks, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee (both D-Md.) announced $69,498,878 in direct federal funding for 46 community-led projects throughout Maryland within the fiscal year 2026 THUD appropriations bill – which was enacted into law as part of a 5-bill government funding package passed by Congress and signed into law in February. These investments in local projects – submitted and secured by the Senators – support community and economic development as well as improvements to public transit and trail networks.

“Federal dollars can make a big impact when we invest them directly in projects that support our communities’ needs. That’s why we fought to deliver these federal funds to local priorities – from developing affordable housing to building safer transportation infrastructure to improving access to services that help Marylanders thrive. We worked hard to secure the investments in this legislation to ensure it reflects the needs of Marylanders and our communities,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

“During the March on Washington, Rabbi Joachim Prinz so wisely reminded us that ‘Neighbor is not a geographic term. It is a moral concept.’ Here in Maryland, we are all neighbors, and that is why Senator Van Hollen and I were so determined to secure federal funding for community hubs and affordable, safe housing. Every Marylander deserves to live in a safe place where they can thrive and grow, and our over $69 million for Maryland in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill invests in our neighbors – in upgraded infrastructure for transportation, in outdoor recreation, in youth centers, and in so much more,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

Highlights for Maryland in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Funding Bill

Congressionally Directed Spending

Project Name: Aberdeen Activity Center Outdoor Recreation Improvements

Applicant: City of Aberdeen

Project Description: Funds will be used to construct an ADA-accessible playground, walking trail, and multi-purpose field at a new City Activity Center that will provide outdoor recreation opportunities for the community.

Project Location: Harford County

Amount Included: $300,000

Project Name: Amherst Affordable Housing Redevelopment

Applicant: Montgomery Housing Partnership, Inc.

Project Description: Funds will be used to redevelop the Amherst into a modern, energy-efficient, and affordable community. This project will add affordable units for low- to moderate-income families, supporting Montgomery County’s affordable housing needs.

Project Location: Montgomery County

Amount Included: $1,000,000

Project Name: Artists Flats Apartments

Applicant: Howard County

Project Description: Funds will be used to support construction of mixed-income development that will provide affordable housing for low-and moderate-income individuals and families.

Project Location: Howard County

Amount Included: $2,000,000

Project Name: Baltimore Regional Trail Hub

Applicant: South Baltimore Gateway Community Impact District Management Authority

Project Description: Funds will be used to create a trail link needed to connect existing and planned trails in South Baltimore and around the region. The trails provide access to the newly built Middle Branch Health and Wellness Facility and the MedStar Harbor Hospital.

Project Location: Baltimore City

Amount Included: $3,000,000

Project Name: Bowie State MARC Station Joint Development Project

Applicant: Maryland Department of Transportation

Project Description: The Bowie State MARC Station Joint Development Project will enhance transit access, housing, and economic growth by delivering commuter spaces, residential units, and MARC station improvements. This investment will catalyze development and support Bowie State University’s expansion while fostering a vibrant mixed-use community. This initiative is one of the initial cornerstones of the Penn Line Transit Oriented Development Strategy, designed to transform the Station into a vibrant, mixed-use, and transit-oriented community. The project will enhance public transportation, increase access to affordable housing, and stimulate economic growth through sustainable, community-focused development.

Project Location: Prince George's County

Amount Included: $250,000

Project Name: Capital Improvements

Applicant: Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland, Inc.

Project Description: Funds will be used to construct a state-of-the-art-kitchen in the new Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland headquarters. The new facility will allow for expansion of program services for low-income, elderly adults with a meal production facility, storage space and an accessible loading dock.

Project Location: Baltimore City

Amount Included: $1,500,000

Project Name: Carroll Community College Applied Technology and Trades Center

Applicant: Carroll Community College

Project Description: Funds will be used to establish a new Applied Technology and Trades Center to address critical workforce shortages among tradespeople in the fields of manufacturing, welding, plumbing, carpentry, and automotive/electric vehicle maintenance and repair.

Project Location: Carroll County

Amount Included: $850,000

Project Name: Cedar Lane Senior Living Community Phase IV Development

Applicant: Cedar Lane Senior Living Community III Inc.

Project Description: Funds will support Cedar Lane Phase IV, an affordable senior housing complex that will add new housing units with activities and services for Maryland's senior citizens.

Project Location: St. Mary's County

Amount Included: $1,500,000

Project Name: Cheverly MD 201 Bike Trail

Applicant: Town of Cheverly

Project Description: Funds will be used to construct a shared-use path along MD 201 for safer pedestrian and bicyclist travel.

Project Location: Prince George's County

Amount Included: $650,000

Project Name: Chimes Home Safety and Accessibility Renovation

Applicant: The Chimes Foundation, Inc.

Project Description: Funds will be used to construct and renovate homes for people with physical and developmental disabilities in order to support greater independence for residents.

Project Location: Baltimore City

Amount Included: $1,000,000

Project Name: Community Center Renovation

Applicant: Maryland Deaf Community Center

Project Description: Funds will be used to support the renovation of the Maryland Deaf Community Center in Frederick, MD. The Center will provide deaf and hard of hearing people throughout the state with a space to access resources, educational, cultural, and social programs.

Project Location: Frederick County

Amount Included: $500,000

Project Name: Community Center Revitalization Project

Applicant: Robert W. Johnson Community Center

Project Description: Funds will be used to support urgent repairs and renovations to the longstanding community hub serving youth, families, and seniors in Hagerstown. These improvements will preserve a vital local institution, enhance programs, and address infrastructure needs.

Project Location: Washington County

Amount Included: $500,000

Project Name: Community Food Center Renovation

Applicant: AfriThrive Inc.

Project Description: Funds will be used to upgrade and renovate a community kitchen, cold storage, and food pantry in Essex, Maryland to support low-income families in the region.

Project Location: Montgomery County

Amount Included: $800,000

Project Name: Crownsville Meyer Building Rehabilitation

Applicant: Anne Arundel County

Project Description: Funds will be used to remediate and rehabilitate the Meyer Building at the Crownsville Hospital Memorial Park to provide the community with essential amenity and support spaces as well as crucial health and wellness services.

Project Location: Anne Arundel County

Amount Included: $3,150,000

Project Name: Easterseals Hagerstown Child Development Center

Applicant: Easterseals DC MD VA, Inc.

Project Description: Funds will be used to purchase and renovate a building to address the lack of childcare availability in Washington County. This facility will accommodate children ages 6-weeks to 4-years-old and meet a critical need in a county with no accredited child development centers.

Project Location: Washington County

Amount Included: $2,000,000

Project Name: Echoes from the Key Bridge

Applicant: Baltimore Museum of Industry

Project Description: Funds will be used to support an initiative to collect stories and memories to document the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse and its impact on the Port of Baltimore. This historical information and perspective will be the basis of an exhibition and a school curriculum on the Port’s importance.

Project Location: Baltimore City

Amount Included: $730,000

Project Name: Enhancing Eastern Shore Freight Rail Growth and Reliability Project

Applicant: Maryland Department of Transportation

Project Description: Funds will be used for improvements to the Centreville and Chestertown freight rail lines in Kent and Queen Anne’s Counties. Several businesses on the Eastern Shore rely on these rail lines. Functioning freight rail lines will help reduce the number of trucks on the roads.

Project Location: Kent County, Queen Anne's County

Amount Included: $8,000,000

Project Name: Essex Branch Construction

Applicant: Baltimore County Public Library

Project Description: Funds will support the construction of a new Baltimore County Public Library branch in an underserved community on the east side of the county. This building will replace the current branch, which is inadequate in size and lacks the modern amenities residents need.

Project Location: Baltimore County

Amount Included: $2,000,000

Project Name: Facilities Upgrades and Equipment for Public Safety During Storms

Applicant: Howard County

Project Description: Funds will be used to update and improve the North Laurel Community Center and Elkridge 50+ Center which serve as warming and cooling centers and emergency shelters during emergencies.

Project Location: Howard County

Amount Included: $1,250,000

Project Name: Frederick Youth Center

Applicant: City of Frederick

Project Description: Funds will be used for construction-related furnishings, fixtures, and equipment. This includes interior and exterior elements such as security systems, gym equipment, technology infrastructure, furniture, maker-space tools, and other site amenities essential to supporting a safe and engaging environment for youth.

Project Location: Frederick County

Amount Included: $3,000,000

Project Name: Gaithersburg Pedestrian Safety Improvements

Applicant: City of Gaithersburg

Project Description: Funds will be used for multimodal safety improvements on streets in and adjacent to Olde Towne Gaithersburg, based on the highest-priority recommendations from the City’s 2024 Safe Routes to School study on three local public schools.

Project Location: Montgomery County

Amount Included: $1,000,000

Project Name: Greenbelt Springhill Lake Recreation Center Expansion/Addition

Applicant: City of Greenbelt

Project Description: Funds will be used to maximize Springhill Lake Recreation Center’s programmable space to allow expansion of after-school and summer programs, meet quality childcare needs, and add STEAM activities. Currently, staff struggle to meet community needs due to limited space.

Project Location: Prince George's County

Amount Included: $250,000

Project Name: Greenbelt Youth Center Roof Replacement

Applicant: City of Greenbelt

Project Description: Funds will be used to replace the water-damaged roof at the Youth Center, a community space and home to summer camps, preschool program, and the Greenbelt Boys & Girls Club.

Project Location: Prince George's County

Amount Included: $1,554,969

Project Name: Guilford Road Pedestrian / Bicycle Improvements, Phase 3

Applicant: Howard County

Project Description: Funds will be used for the construction of a shared use path along Guilford Road, between Oakland Mills Road and Carroll Heights Avenue.

Project Location: Howard County

Amount Included: $2,000,000

Project Name: Home and Building Renovations and Accessible Vehicles

Applicant: The Arc Baltimore

Project Description: Funds will be used to make improvements at the Arc's employment center and to address high-priority repairs and accessibility modifications for several homeowners. Funds will also support vehicle modifications for individuals with developmental disabilities of low to moderate income.

Project Location: Baltimore County

Amount Included: $644,000

Project Name: Housing Authority of the City of College Park MD Renovation of Attick Towers Apartments

Applicant: Housing Authority of the City of College Park

Project Description: Funds will be used for building upgrades.

Project Location: Prince George's County

Amount Included: $3,150,000

Project Name: Infrastructure Improvements and Upgrades at The Flat Iron Building, Phase 2

Applicant: Town of Mount Airy

Project Description: Funds will support Phase 2 of the building’s restoration which will provide structural stabilization and interior and exterior improvements—all critical to its long-term preservation.

Project Location: Carroll County

Amount Included: $850,000

Project Name: Ivy Village Incubator for Nonprofit Excellence

Applicant: The Ivy Community Charities of Prince George's County, Inc.

Project Description: Funds will be used to support construction of community facilities to house an accelerator program with training, coaching, and networking opportunities to help build the capacity of emerging nonprofits in the County.

Project Location: Prince George's County

Amount Included: $2,000,000

Project Name: LAYC Prince George's County Site Renovation

Applicant: Latin American Youth Center

Project Description: Funds will be used to renovate the Latin American Youth Center in Riverdale, which will allow for the expansion of services for youth and their families, including housing counseling, workforce development, mental health services, and education programs.

Project Location: Prince George’s County

Amount Included: $1,500,000

Project Name: Low-Income Home Weatherization Project

Applicant: Montgomery County

Project Description: Funds will be used to repair homes owned by low-income individuals with the goal of increasing participation in Maryland weatherization programs and reducing electric and heating bills.

Project Location: Montgomery County

Amount Included: $850,000

Project Name: North Prince George's County Animal Shelter

Applicant: Prince George's County

Project Description: Funds will be used to design and construct a new animal shelter to expand access to veterinary services and animal adoption for residents.

Project Location: Prince George's County

Amount Included: $850,000

Project Name: Parity Homes Strategic Acquisition Fund

Applicant: Parity Baltimore Incorporated

Project Description: Funds will be used to purchase vacant and blighted properties for rehabilitation in order to transform convert them into affordable homes.

Project Location: Baltimore City

Amount Included: $1,524,000

Project Name: Revitalize Hanover Street: Bridging Futures Transforming South Baltimore Neighborhoods

Applicant: Baltimore City

Project Description: Funds will be used to complete survey, engineering, and environmental review work for the 104-year-old Hanover Street Bridge in order to determine the most effective method to address the aging structure.

Project Location: Baltimore City

Amount Included: $500,000

Project Name: Sidewalks for All: The Downtown Frederick Streetscape Project

Applicant: City of Frederick

Project Description: Funds will be used to complete utility upgrades and design for the Downtown Frederick Streetscape project, which will increase safety, improve pedestrian access, and support visitors and local businesses in Downtown Frederick.

Project Location: Frederick County

Amount Included: $2,478,000

Project Name: Southern Maryland Rapid Transit (SMRT)

Applicant: Charles County

Project Description: Funds will be used to complete the environmental review process for the development of a transit service from the Branch Avenue Metro Station in Camp Springs to Waldorf/White Plains, which would reduce traffic congestion, improve local commuting and increase mobility in Southern Maryland.

Project Location: Charles County, Prince George's County

Amount Included: $5,000,000

Project Name: Taney Avenue Senior Center and Senior Affordable Housing

Applicant: Frederick County

Project Description: Funds will support the redevelopment of an over 50 year-old Community Center in Frederick, allowing for the continuation and expansion of services for older residents and the addition of affordable housing for seniors on the property.

Project Location: Frederick County

Amount Included: $1,000,000

Project Name: The Arc Prince George's County Affordable Housing Rehabilitation/Preservation

Applicant: The Redevelopment Authority of Prince George's County

Project Description: Rehabilitate housing units for low-income persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, empowering these individuals to live more independently in their homes.

Project Location: Prince George's County

Amount Included: $1,840,909

Project Name: The Arc Prince George's County Full-Service Community Center

Applicant: The Redevelopment Authority of Prince George's County

Project Description: Funds will be used to renovate a building to serve as a new community hub for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. The site will include an adult medical day program, outreach/education for children, benefits enrollment center, and job training.

Project Location: Prince George's County

Amount Included: $850,000

Project Name: The Reisterstown Main Street Lamppost Replacements

Applicant: Reisterstown Main Street

Project Description: Funds will be used to replace deteriorating street lampposts in order to enhance safety and visibility.

Project Location: Baltimore County

Amount Included: $250,000

Project Name: The Sanctuary Garden

Applicant: Sanctuary AP3 Co.

Project Description: Funds will be used to support critical pre-construction activities for new affordable housing units for low-income seniors and families.

Project Location: Prince George's County

Amount Included: $2,000,000

Project Name: Thompson Creek Connector Road & Trail Extension

Applicant: Queen Anne's County Commissioners

Project Description: Funds will be used for the design, engineering, permitting, &construction of the Thompson Creek Connector Road & Trail Extensions on MD Route 8. The new roadway in Stevensville will have an adjacent pedestrian &bicycle trail to improve safety and reduce congestion around the US50/301 interchange.

Project Location: Queen Anne's County

Amount Included: $1,416,000

Project Name: Town of Easton Rails To Trails Expansion

Applicant: Town of Easton

Project Description: Funds will be used to expand the existing trail system to enhance connectivity and provide walkable access to community services and multimodal transportation options for residents and visitors.

Project Location: Talbot County

Amount Included: $411,000

Project Name: US 29 Safety and Transit Access Improvements

Applicant: Montgomery County Department of Transportation

Project Description: Funds will be used to construct cyclist and pedestrian safety improvements near a Flash Bus Rapid Transit Station in Montgomery County in order to improve transportation options for commuters and residents.

Project Location: Montgomery County

Amount Included: $500,000

Project Name: West Baltimore MARC Station Replacement

Applicant: Maryland Department of Transportation

Project Description: Funds will be used to complete the renovation of the West Baltimore MARC Station, including restrooms, waiting rooms, lighting, and communications systems to improve service and access for residents, commuters, and travelers using on the MARC Penn Line.

Project Location: Baltimore City

Amount Included: $250,000

Project Name: Workforce Development & Technical Training Center

Applicant: Montgomery County

Project Description: Funds will be used to transform underutilized and vacant space into a vocational training hub, equipping low-income workers with skills in construction, healthcare, and energy.

Project Location: Montgomery County

Amount Included: $2,000,000

Project Name: YMCA Great Mills

Applicant: Commissioners of St. Mary’s County

Project Description: Funds will be used to construct a multi-use YMCA recreation center in Lexington Park that will enhance the quality of life for residents of St. Mary's County through wellness and fitness programs and multi-generational programming.

Project Location: St. Mary's County

Amount Included: $850,000

Additional priorities secured by the Senators in the FY26 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies funding bill include:

Transportation Highlights

Department of Transportation (DOT): The bill provides $111.8 billion in total resources for the Department of Transportation, of which $83.3 billion is from obligation limitations and $28.5 billion is provided in discretionary resources. This amount includes significant new funding to help the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) maintain a safe and efficient air traffic control system, while strengthening the safety of our rail and maritime network and supporting capital investments to improve the state of good repair of our transit systems. The bill strengthens Congress’ control over how funds are spent, including transparency measures about the modification or termination of grants, contracts, and loans, and the closure of regional, division, or field offices.

Aviation: The bill provides $22.6 billion for the FAA, an increase of $1.6 billion over fiscal year 2025. This includes:

The bill provides $2 million for an independent study on the airspace in the National Capital Region and the coordination between the FAA and Department of Defense in response to the tragic Flight 5342 accident in January 2025.

$13.7 billion for FAA operations, which will allow the FAA to hire 2,500 air traffic controllers and 91 new aviation safety inspectors and engineers.

$4 billion for FAA facilities and equipment to continue efforts to modernize the Air Traffic Control system. The bill requires the FAA Administrator to provide monthly updates on these efforts in order to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse.

$4.5 billion for Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants to improve airport infrastructure and safety, of which $4 billion is from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund.

The bill also provides $514 million for the Essential Air Service (EAS) program, rejecting President Trump’s budget request to cut the program by 50%, and it prevents DOT from haphazardly terminating any EAS contracts.

Highways and Bridges: The bill provides $65.8 billion for federal-aid highways, which includes $63.4 billion in funding from the Highway Trust Fund, and an additional $2.4 billion for Highway Infrastructure Programs. The bill provides $30 million for the Reconnecting Communities grant program, a program modeled off of provisions of legislation led by Senator Van Hollen and included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 to reconnect communities isolated and excluded from economic opportunity by past infrastructure decisions. The Senator and Federal Team Maryland have worked to deliver over $95 million from the Reconnecting Communities Program to Maryland since its creation – including an $85 million grant for the first phase of the Highway to Nowhere redevelopment project in West Baltimore. In addition, the bill provides $350 million for a competitive bridge bundling grant program, $200 million for truck parking grants, and $10 million for the National Scenic Byways program.

Amtrak and Rail Safety: The bill provides a total of $2.9 billion for the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). This includes $2.4 billion to fully meet Amtrak’s funding request, rejecting House Republicans’ proposal to zero out new funding for Amtrak. These resources will allow Amtrak to sustain operations and current service levels, maintain a state of good repair, and safely get passengers to their destinations. In addition, the bill provides $65 million for the Federal-State Partnership grant program and $137 million for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements grant program (CRISI). Over the past six years, Federal Team Maryland has secured over $170 million from the CRISI program for passenger and freight rail infrastructure projects in the state of Maryland.

Washington Union Station: The bill includes $5 million for the rehabilitation and repair of the Union Station complex and language allowing the Union Station Redevelopment Corporation to apply for Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail grant funding.

Transit Infrastructure: The bill provides $16.7 billion for the Federal Transit Administration, which includes $14.6 billion in funding from the Highway Trust Fund and $1.7 billion for Capital Investment Grants (CIG)—rejecting House Republicans’ proposal to slash CIG funding by 98%—to a mere $54 million—in their bill. When combined with available prior fiscal year funds and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act advanced appropriations, a total of $3.7 billion is available for Capital Investment Grants in fiscal year 2026, and unlike the fiscal year 2025 continuing resolution, the bill specifies which projects to fund at what amount. In addition, the bill provides $45 million for urban and rural ferry grants, $15 million to assist large urban transit agencies in improving safety and security in transit systems, and a combined $195 million to help host cities throughout the country provide transit service in support of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Maritime Administration: The bill provides $1 billion for the Maritime Administration, including $201.5 million for the United States Merchant Marine Academy, of which $50 million is for capital improvements; $139 million for State Maritime Academies, of which $110 million is for the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel Program; $35 million for the Small Shipyards Grant Program; and $103 million is for the Port Infrastructure Development Program. Federal Team Maryland has delivered more than $96 million from this program for infrastructure projects at and around the Port of Baltimore over the past six years.

The bill also provides a combined $482 million for three maritime security programs that provide the Department of Defense with critical supply chain logistics and refueling needs support.

Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA): The bill provides $309.5 million for the PHMSA, which includes $214.8 million for pipeline safety and $66 million for hazardous materials safety.

Housing Highlights

Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): The bill provides $84.3 billion in programmatic funding for HUD, a historic $7.2 billion increase above fiscal year 2025, while President Trump wanted to cut funding for the agency in half. This total amount is offset by $6.9 billion in receipts and collections for a net funding level of $77.3 billion. The bill invests in maintaining rental assistance programs that millions of Americans rely on, building more affordable housing, and reducing homelessness. It also includes transparency measures about the modification or termination of grants and contracts, and the closure of field offices.

Invests in Community Development Programs: The bill provides $46 million, a $4 million increase over FY25 and $30 million over the president’s budget request, for the Capacity Building for Community Development and Affordable Housing Program, which enhances the capacity of community development corporations (CDCs) and community housing development organizations (CHDOs) to carry out community development and affordable housing activities that benefit low-income communities.

Protecting Rental Assistance Programs: The bill rejects President Trump’s devastating proposal to slash HUD’s rental assistance programs and shift more costs onto states, local governments, and low-income families—which would have put over 10 million Americans at risk of eviction and homelessness, most of whom are children, elderly, or Americans with disabilities. Instead, the bill includes:

$38.4 billion for tenant-based Section 8 vouchers, a $2.4 billion increase above fiscal year 2025, and of the total amounts provided:

$600.6 million is for tenant protection vouchers, including funding and new flexibilities to continue support for over 50,000 households who are relying on Emergency Housing Vouchers to avoid homelessness;

$30 million is for new incremental vouchers available to youth aging out of and involved with the foster care system; and

$15 million for the Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) program to support veterans at risk of or experiencing homelessness, rejecting the Trump Administration’s attempt to zero out the program in its proposed FY26 budget for HUD;

$18.5 billion for the project-based rental assistance (PBRA) program to renew housing contracts, a $1.65 billion increase above fiscal year 2025;

$8.3 billion for public housing, including $3.2 billion to address capital needs and $50 million to address lead and other health hazards; and

$1 billion for housing for the elderly and $287 million for housing for Americans with disabilities, a combined $130 million increase above fiscal year 2025.

In addition, the bill provides $206 million for self-sufficiency programs, an $11 million increase over fiscal year 2025, to help low-income Americans and families improve their financial security, job skills, and earnings. It also provides $7.5 million to assist low-income tenants with legal assistance while in eviction proceedings. President Trump proposed eliminating both programs in his budget request.

Addressing Homelessness: The bill provides $4.4 billion for Homeless Assistance Grants, a $366 million increase above fiscal year 2025. In addition to sustaining investments for existing projects, the bill:

Requires HUD to distribute Continuum of Care funds on a timely basis to prevent funding lapses;

Includes $107 million in new funding to address youth homelessness; and

Includes $52 million in new funding to support survivors of domestic violence.

The bill also does not cut and consolidate the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program with homeless assistance programs as proposed in President Trump’s budget request. Instead, it provides $529 million for HOPWA, a $24 million increase above fiscal year 2025.

Supply of Affordable Housing: As communities across the country continue to face a shortage of affordable homes, the bill rejects President Trump’s budget proposal to eliminate HUD’s competitive and formula grant programs that help address the crisis. The bill instead makes critical investments to increase the supply of affordable housing and lower the cost of housing so that Americans can keep a roof over their head. The bill includes:

$1.25 billion for the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, equal to fiscal year 2025, rejecting President Trump’s budget request and House Republicans’ bill that defunded the program. The HOME program is a critical federal tool used by state and local governments to build more affordable rental and owner-occupied housing.

$50 million to continue the PRO Housing grant program that incentivizes state and local jurisdictions to remove barriers to housing production, which helps lower housing costs for Americans. President Trump’s budget request and House Republicans’ bill both eliminated the PRO Housing grant program.

Supporting Local Community Development: The bill provides nearly $7 billion for local community development and housing-related activities through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) formula program and Economic Development Initiatives (EDIs). President Trump’s budget request sought to eliminate the CDBG program, which state and local governments rely on to improve quality of life for Americans in rural and urban communities alike.


Van Hollen, Alsobrooks Announce Over $33 Million for Maryland Water Infrastructure Projects; Critical Investments in Maintaining Port of Baltimore, Additional Shipping Channels

Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Senator Angela Alsobrooks (both D-Md.) announced $33,080,000 in direct federal funding for six projects throughout Maryland within the fiscal year 2026 Energy & Water Development appropriations bill – which was enacted into law as part of a 3-bill government funding package passed by Congress and signed into law in January. These investments in local projects – submitted and secured by the Senators – support water infrastructure improvements as well as Army Corps-led efforts to maintain navigational safety throughout the Chesapeake Bay, including around the Port of Baltimore; beach replenishment in Ocean City; and to study alternatives for a secondary water source for the Washington Region.

“Federal dollars can make a big impact when we invest them directly in projects that support our communities’ needs – that’s why we fought to deliver these federal funds to local priorities. From bolstering access to clean water to ensuring our waterways and shipping channels around the Port of Baltimore and throughout Maryland are clear and open for business, these projects will play a critical role in improving the health of our communities and growing our state’s economy. The investments in this legislation were hard-fought to ensure we keep Maryland moving forward,” said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Appropriations Committee.

“It is our duty to protect our environment, and here in Maryland there is so much worth fighting for and safeguarding. That’s why it is critical that we continue to invest federal funding to protect our Chesapeake Bay, upgrade our water infrastructure, preserve our essential waterways, defend our unique habitats, and ensure clean drinking water for all Marylanders,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

Highlights for Maryland in the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development Funding Bill

Congressionally Directed Spending

Project Name: Atlantic Coast of Maryland Shoreline Protection

Applicant: Army Corps of Engineers

Project Description: Funds will be used for beach renourishment in Ocean City, Maryland to increase shoreline protection.

Project Location: Worcester County

Amount Included: $20,000,000

Project Name: Easton Utilities - EUC Water Tower (Section 219)

Applicant: Easton Utilities Commission

Project Description: Funds will be used for a new water tower necessary to provide essential pressure regulation, fire flow capacity, redundancy, and emergency supply for the new UMMS Shore Regional Medical Center.

Project Location: Talbot County

Amount Included: $2,625,000

Project Name: Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin

Applicant: Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin

Project Description: Funds will be used to support the activities of the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin.

Project Location: Montgomery County

Amount Included: $650,000

Project Name: Northeast River Dredging

Applicant: Army Corps of Engineers

Project Description: Funds will support activities on the Northeast River.

Project Location: Cecil County

Amount Included: $3,200,000

Project Name: Slaughter Creek Dredging

Applicant: Army Corps of Engineers

Project Description: Funds will support dredging of Slaughter Creek.

Project Location: Dorchester County

Amount Included: $4,805,000

Project Name: Washington Region Secondary Water Source Study

Applicant: Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments

Project Description: Funds will be used to conduct a feasibility study on a secondary drinking water source and additional drinking water storage capability for the region.

Project Location: Prince George's County

Amount Included: $1,800,000

Additional priorities secured by the Senators in the FY26 Energy and Water Development funding bill include:

Corps of Engineers highlights

This bill provides $10.4 billion in total funding for the Army Corps of Engineers to maintain our ports and harbors, invest in keeping communities safe and prepared for extreme weather events, and strengthen our competitiveness. This includes funding for the following Maryland operations, maintenance dredging, and construction projects:

$43,075,000 to maintain Port of Baltimore shipping channels

$12,500,000 to support the continued construction of Poplar Island

$20,717,000 for the Intracoastal Waterway, Delaware River to the Chesapeake Bay

$5,450,000 to support dredging of the Wicomico River

$1,030,000 for drift removal in Baltimore Harbor

$250,000 for Cumberland, Maryland and Ridgeley, West Virginia

$2,840,000 for Jennings Randolph Lake in Maryland and West Virginia

$310,000 for Nanticoke River

$5,000 for St. George Creek

It also includes $14 million Army Corps of Engineers Coastal Ocean Data System – $4.2 million above President Trump’s request – which provides the long-term coastal wave and sediment observations, research, and data products needed to support sustainable coastal and navigation projects.

Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)

$200,000,000 for the ARC, which supports projects in Garrett, Allegany, and Washington Counties. This includes $65 million for the ARC’s Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative and $13 million to address the substance abuse crisis throughout Appalachia. Local governments and other entities in these Maryland counties have been awarded over $5.5 million in federal grant funding over the past two years.

Department of Energy highlights

The bill provides $16.78 billion – $3.76 billion above President Trump’s request – for the Department of Energy’s non-defense programs.

Lowering Energy Bills: This bill provides $329 million – a $3 million increase over last year – for the Weatherization Assistance Program. This program reduces energy costs for low-income households by increasing the energy efficiency of their homes, saving families $372 per year on average.

Protecting Our Energy Grid: The bill provides $190 million for Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response to help ensure the continued success of the Department’s programs aimed at strengthening the security and resilience of our energy sector and grid. It also provides $235 million for the Office of Electricity, $25 million for the Grid Deployment Office, and an additional $375 million in funding for electric grid infrastructure to help build out the electric transmission system and lower energy prices.

Renewable Energy: The bill provides $3.1 billion for energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, rejecting President Trump’s proposed cut of over $2.5 billion and elimination of funding resources for solar and wind energy research programs. This funding continues to advance the ability of the US to develop, build, and deploy innovative clean energy technologies that will lower energy costs and create jobs.


Van Hollen, Elfreth Highlight Over $6 Million in Federal Funding Secured for Community Projects in Howard County

Recently, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen and Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (both D-Md.), joined by Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, toured the future site of the Artists Flats Apartments in Columbia, Md, and highlighted $6,296,000 in Fiscal Year 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending that they, along with U.S. Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), fought to deliver for projects across Howard County.

“Delivering federal investments to our communities helps support local priorities that better Marylanders’ lives. These investments will increase affordable housing options in Columbia, improve safety on our roads, shore up our emergency infrastructure, and expand STEM education. By partnering together to support these efforts, we’re strengthening communities today while laying the foundation for long-term growth and success,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

“I came to Congress to deliver tangible results for Maryland families back home. With over $6 million secured for Howard County, we are doing just that. From improving pedestrian safety along Guilford Road and investing in affordable mixed-use housing to funding youth STEM programs and improving energy resilience at the North Laurel Community Center and Elkridge 50+ Center, this federal funding will make a real difference in the lives of Howard County residents of all ages. I’m grateful for the partnership and commitment of Team Maryland to turn these ideas into action – and I look forward to seeing these projects through to completion,” said Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth.

“All Marylanders need a safe and affordable place to live. That is why I am committed to lowering the cost of rent and creating real pathways to home ownership. It’s also why I am so proud to have partnered with Senator Van Hollen and Congresswoman Elfreth to secure federal investment for the Artists Flats Apartments to create more affordable housing in Howard County. This was part of over $6 million in federal funding directed to Howard County this year – which beyond affordable housing will modernize our infrastructure, upgrade senior centers, and invest in STEM,” said Senator Angela Alsobrooks.

The federal lawmakers secured for $2,000,000 for the future Artists Flats Apartments, which will provide new affordable housing options to low- and moderate-income individuals and families. They also secured $2,000,000 for the construction of a new bicycle and pedestrian lane along Guilford Road and $1,250,000 for upgrades to the North Laurel Community Center and Elkridge 50+ Center, which serve as emergency shelters during storms. The lawmakers secured these investments within the government funding bills passed and signed into law for Fiscal Year 2026.

“On behalf of Howard County, I am honored to accept more the $6.2 million in federal funding for critical Howard County projects that will strengthen our infrastructure, improve public safety, expand opportunity, and support our residents for years to come,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “I want to thank our Federal Delegation for continued support of important projects like these. This moment reflects what partnership between local and federal government should look like; it is thoughtful, practical, and centered on people.”

The federal lawmakers also highlighted $1,046,000 that they secured to support the expansion of the Chinese American Parent Association of Howard County (CAPA)’s STEM Forward program for young students.

“This federal investment is a meaningful step forward for our community,” said Lan Deng, Executive Director of the Chinese American Parent Association of Howard County. “STEM Forward will expand access to high-quality, hands-on STEM learning opportunities for students who have historically been underrepresented in these fields. We are deeply grateful for the leadership and support of our congressional partners in making this possible.”

Video of the press conference and ceremonial check presentation marking the delivery of the funding is available here.

The total FY26 Congressionally Directed Spending secured for Howard County is as follows:

Project Name: Guilford Road Pedestrian / Bicycle Improvements, Phase 3

Applicant: Howard County

Project Description: Funds will be used for the construction of a shared-use path along Guilford Road, between Oakland Mills Road and Carroll Heights Avenue.

Amount: $2,000,000

Project Name: Artists Flats Apartments

Applicant: Howard County

Project Description: Funds will be used to support the construction of mixed-income development that will provide affordable housing for low-and moderate-income individuals and families.

Amount: $2,000,000

Project Name: Facilities Upgrades and Equipment for Public Safety During Storms

Applicant: Howard County

Project Description: Funds will be used to update and improve the North Laurel Community Center and Elkridge 50+ Center, which serve as warming and cooling centers and emergency shelters during emergencies.

Amount: $1,250,000


Warnock Announces Nearly $90 Million in New Federal Funding for Outstanding Helene Payments to Georgia

This follows Senator Warnock’s most recent announcement, securing roughly $75 million in outstanding Helene payments

To date, Senator Warnock has helped unlock over a billion dollars in disaster-related federal funding owed to the state

This latest tranche of disaster-related funding comes as South Georgia continues to battle massive wildfires fueled by debris from Hurricane Helene

Senator Warnock: “The people of Georgia stepped up when our communities were devastated after Hurricane Helene made landfall, but for too long this administration has failed to fulfill its promises and pay their share. This trend of incredibly delayed funds cannot become the status quo”

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) announced he has secured an additional $87 million in federal funding for payments owed to Georgia counties and entities following Hurricane Helene.

“The people of Georgia stepped up when our communities were devastated after Hurricane Helene made landfall, but for too long this administration has failed to fulfill its promises and pay their share. This trend of incredibly delayed funds cannot become the status quo,” said Senator Warnock. “I am proud to unlock this latest round of relief funding and I hope this signals the end of chaos and bureaucracy around slowing our disaster recovery process.”

One year after Hurricane Helene made landfall, Senator Warnock released a report and statement finding that the Trump administration owed $600 million in promised recovery aid to Georgians. In December 2025, Senator Warnock announced he secured $314 million in federal funding for outstanding payments owed to Georgia counties and entities in the wake of Hurricane Helene. The funding, part of a disaster recovery bill championed by Senator Warnock in 2024, is meant to reimburse local communities for funds spent on recovery. Despite bipartisan Congressional support for the immediate delivery of disaster recovery funds, the distribution of aid has been stifled by bureaucratic, red tape, and chaos in the Trump Administration. Most recently, Senator Warnock announced a tranche of funding that brought the total federal disaster funding unlocked by Senator Warnock to well over a billion dollars.

A list of Georgia counties and entities receiving federal funding can be found below (this is not a comprehensive list of entities receiving funding):

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Following Armed Services Committee Hearing, Warren Questions Hegseth on Trump Family Pentagon Contracts

Questions come as Trump sons’ drone company Powerus receives new Air Force contract

Questions for Secretary Hegseth (PDF)

Washington, D.C. — In new Questions for the Record following last week’s Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), pressed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth about President Trump’s sons’ ties to defense contractors and how the DoD is handling these financial conflicts of interest. The questions come as a follow-up to last week’s hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and days after reports indicated that Powerus, a drone company backed by the Trump sons, had recently obtained a new Air Force contract.

Shortly after President Trump was elected to his second term, his son, Donald Trump Jr., announced he was joining venture capital firm 1789 Capital. After Trump Jr. joined the firm, the firm’s portfolio companies reportedly won more than $70 million worth of contracts from the Trump Administration, including:

$45 million awarded to Cerebras Systems in April 2025 to improve artificial intelligence chip connections;

$10.8 million awarded to PsiQuantum in April 2025 for quantum chips;

$4.9 million awarded to Firehawk Aerospace in August 2025 to develop rocket engines; and

$10 million to Vulcan Elements for magnets in 2025.

Several of the Trump Jr.-connected companies had never received such large DoD contracts prior to 2025. In early March, reports revealed that the Trump brothers are also investing in drone company Powerus, which is “vying to meet fresh demand from the Pentagon and fill a hole left by the administration’s ban on new Chinese drones in the U.S.”

In March, Senators Warren and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released answers from the Defense Department revealing that the Department seems to have no effective process in place to prevent conflicts of interest and corruption involving President Trump’s family and the Pentagon’s awarding of defense contracts. To date, Hegseth has not detailed any plan to protect the military’s contracting process against conflicts of interest.

These instances highlight Secretary Hegseth’s unwillingness to protect the military’s budget and contracting process from potential corruption. Senator Warren’s new Questions for the Record will require Secretary Hegseth to address these failures in writing.

Senator Warren’s questions for Secretary Hegseth include:

Justifications for loans and contracts offered to several companies in which the Trump family is financially invested;

Whether Donald Trump Jr. has held any role in vetting candidates for top Pentagon positions; and

Details of any conversations Secretary Hegseth had with the Trump family or their representatives regarding military contracts leading up to his confirmation.

Senator Warren has led the fight to root out corruption at the Defense Department:

In April 2026, at a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Warren (D-Mass.) pressed Secretary Hegseth on allegations that Trump administration officials are engaging in possible insider trading by placing bets on the Iran War through prediction markets.

In April 2026, Senator Warren questioned Deputy Secretary of Defense Stephen Feinberg on his conflicts of interest, which may be enabling him, his immediate family, and his network of associates to benefit from secretive DoD contracting decisions related to its Golden Dome missile defense program. Senator Warren urged Feinberg to take immediate action to mitigate the conflicts.

In March 2026, Senator Warren (D-Mass.) released a new response from DoD indicating that there are no effective processes in place to prevent possible conflicts of interest and corruption involving President Donald Trump’s family and the Department’s awarding of defense contracts. In a new letter, Senators Warren and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) pressed Secretary Hegseth on this failure and pushed for answers regarding Trump’s sons’ latest investment in Powerus, a drone company.

In January 2026, Senators Warren (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Andy Kim (D-N.J.), pressed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth on potential conflicts of interest surrounding the awarding of multiple lucrative Department of Defense (DoD) contracts and loans to companies associated with President Donald Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr.

In July 2025, Senators Warren (D-Mass.) and Rick Scott (R-Fla.), wrote to former Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin seeking an explanation and further information on his recent decision to start a strategic advisory firm. Austin had publicly promised Senator Warren during his 2021 confirmation process that he would not become a lobbyist after his government service ended.

In July 2023, Senator Warren (D-Mass) wrote to then-Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, Heidi Shyu, following reporting that DoD’s new Office of Strategic Capital (OSC) is relying on consultants who will continue to work for private defense consultants and defense investment companies. Senator Warren raised concerns that DoD lacked the necessary safeguards to prevent conflicts of interest in the OSC.

In June 2023, Senator Warren and then-representative Andy Kim (D-N.J.) reintroduced the Department of Defense Ethics and Anti-Corruption Act to limit the influence of contractors on the military and increase transparency over contractors and their interaction with DoD.

In December 2020, Senator Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) reintroduced the Anti-Corruption & Public Integrity Act, to strengthen ethics laws and crack down on government officials’ conflicts of interest across the government.

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Welch Hosts ‘Common Grounds with Senator Welch’ Listening Session in Addison County

MIDDLEBURY, VT – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today hosted a ‘Common Grounds with Senator Welch’ listening session in Middlebury. The Senator joined community members and local leaders to discuss how Washington can work better for Addison County families, farmers, and businesses.

“The repercussions of President Trump’s war of choice in Iran aren’t just being felt halfway across the globe—they’re being felt right here, in Addison County, in the form of higher prices for farmers and consumers. Now, when I get back to Washington, the Trump Administration is going to ask us to increase defense spending from $1 trillion to $1.5 trillion. That’s the exact opposite of what we should be focusing on,” said Senator Welch. “Massive accumulation of wealth needs to be challenged. Farmers create wealth but get no benefit. In foreign policy, we need a values-based approach. I won’t stop fighting for democratic values and policies that allow Vermonters who work hard and make it into the middle class.”

View photos from the event below and on the Senator’s website:

While in Middlebury, Senator Welch discussed the importance of boosting rural infrastructure, including his work to secure $5,250,000 for Ascend Housing Allies Incorporated to help construct a 21-unit, fully affordable, rental apartment building in Middlebury. Additionally, Senator Welch and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) secured $1,200,000 for Addison County Community Trust to address the aging and failing water systems infrastructure in Hillside Manor, a 29-unit affordable housing community in Starksboro.

Senator Welch has hosted Common Grounds events in Caledonia, Orleans, Orange, Lamoille, Grand Isle, and Windsor counties, and will host listening sessions in every county of Vermont in 2026. Sign up for the Senator’s newsletter here to learn more about his upcoming events in Vermont.

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Welch Speaks with Vermonters About Rising Grocery Prices and Food Production Costs

Welch hosted events with Vermont farmers, nutrition advocates, and working families while in Addison County

ADDISON COUNTY, VT –U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Agriculture and Senate Finance Committees, today traveled to Addison County and heard directly from Vermont farmers, producers, and families about how President Trump’s economic policies, trade war, and war with Iran have caused the costs of food production and household items to skyrocket.

“Everyday costs were already too high for Vermont families and farmers, but this White House has pushed reckless economic policies that have totally eroded any progress made in lowering prices for hardworking Americans. The president’s illegal tariffs ignited a trade war with our allies and raised costs for everyday food and household items. His reckless war in Iran has caused fuel and fertilizer prices to dramatically rise, and in turn the cost of food production is more expensive. This will only continue throughout the summer if this doesn’t end immediately,” said Senator Welch. “Families, farmers, and producers can’t afford the White House’s misguided economic policies. I was thankful to hear firsthand from folks in Middlebury and Charlotte today. I’ll keep fighting in the Senate to lower costs and protect Vermont communities.”

At the HOPE Food Shelf in Middlebury, Senator Welch met with nutrition advocates and discussed how President Trump’s economic policies are hurting Vermont families’ ability to put food on the table.

Earlier this year, Senator Welch voted against cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), called 3SquaresVT in Vermont. He has pushed for a reversal of Republicans’ cuts to nutrition assistance funding and is working with Senate Democrats to help families and farmers through a multi-year Farm Bill. He also discussed how the war in Iran is raising the cost of gas and household items for Vermonters.

At the HOPE Food Shelf, Senator Welch was joined by Jeanne Montross, HOPE-VT’s Executive Director, and food shelf staff.

Later in Charlotte, the Senator visited Nitty Gritty Grain Co. to speak with farmers and producers about new and compounding food production costs. The trade war caused enormous uncertainty for many farmers and producers throughout Vermont, who were forced to pay more for equipment, fertilizer, and other costs of production. He also spoke about how the president’s illegal war in Iran has caused dramatic price increases for fertilizer and farm fuel. The Senator also discussed how consolidation is harming farmers and producers in Vermont and across the country.

Nitty Gritty Grain Co. produces organic, small batch grains for restaurants and bakeries across Vermont. They are owned and operated by a 7th generation farming family. The Senator was also joined by O Bread Bakery.

View photos from the events below and on the Senator’s website:

New data released by Democrats on the Joint Economic Committee found families in Vermont have spent $2,500 more on goods and services due to higher inflation in President Trump’s second term. Additionally, in the first year of President Trump’s second term, families paid, on average, more than $310 overall for groceries year-over-year.

The war in Iran has caused fuel prices to spike and some companies have already passed on higher costs of shipping and logistics to the consumer. Analysts recently warned that working families will soon face another round of inflation from the Iran war, with higher costs for many groceries and home products. Farmers report the cost of fertilizer is up more than 30% and the cost of farm diesel has increased 46% since the end of February. More than 70% of farmers surveyed said they couldn’t afford all of the fertilizer needed.

Senator Welch has championed legislation to lower the costs of food for Vermont families and support Vermont farmers and producers. He introduced the CANADA Act, bipartisan legislation to exempt small businesses, including agricultural producers, from tariffs imposed on Canada, and was an original cosponsor of bills and resolutions to block President Trump’s unconstitutional tariffs. He has introduced legislation to expand and invest in the Farm to School program, and will soon reintroduce the Fairness for Small-Scale Farmers and Ranchers Act, which halts mergers of big agriculture firms and strengthens antitrust laws in the agricultural sector. This spring, he joined Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer in introducing the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act, new legislation to address record-high grocery prices squeezing American families.

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