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Klobuchar, Smith Announce Federal Funding for Duluth International Airport

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced they secured significant federal funding for Duluth International Airport for infrastructure improvements. The grant provides $9,478,180 to reconstruct 10,600 feet of Taxiway A. The pavement on Taxiway A has reached the end of its useful life and it no longer meets current FAA standards. The Duluth International Airport is undertaking a phased, multiyear project to reconstruct the taxiway. “Duluth International Airport is an essential link for residents and businesses across Northeast Minnesota,” said Klobuchar. “This federal grant will make needed infrastructure updates so that the airfield meets the needs of larger civilian aircraft and the 148th Fighter Wing, ensuring the airport can continue serving travelers for years to come.” “I’m glad to see the Biden-Harris administration once again delivering for travelers in Minnesota and around the country,” said Smith. Small and regional airports like Duluth International Airport are vital parts of their communities and this funding will go directly towards repaving a taxiway so it is safe and functional for travelers.” This funding is from the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which provides federal grants for airport infrastructure projects such as runways, taxiways, signage, lighting, and markings. ###

Klobuchar, Smith Announce Federal Funding for Crookston Municipal Airport

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced they secured significant federal funding for Crookston Municipal Airport for infrastructure improvements. The grant provides $455,192 for a new 418 foot taxiway to provide airfield access to the site of a future hangar to bring the airport into conformity with current standards. This grant funds the final phase, which consists of construction. “Crookston Municipal Airport is an essential link for residents and businesses in Polk County and beyond,” said Klobuchar. “This federal grant will make needed infrastructure updates to ensure the airport can continue serving travelers for years to come.” “I’m glad to see the Biden-Harris administration once again delivering for travelers in Minnesota and around the country,” said Smith. “Small and regional airports like the Crookston Municipal Airport are vital parts of their communities and this funding will go directly towards making much needed infrastructure updates to the runway and surrounding areas.” This funding is from the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which provides federal grants for airport infrastructure projects such as runways, taxiways, signage, lighting, and markings. ###

Ensuring Coronavirus Vaccines Are Free for All Americans 

In early 2021, as new coronavirus vaccines became available, Sen. Smith understood that they would be key to leading the country out of the pandemic.  To ensure cost was not a barrier to getting vaccinated, Sen. Smith pushed her provision to make them free of charge for all Americans, regardless of insurance status.  The provision was critical to ensuring vaccines are distributed equitably, as communities of color and low-income families were more likely to be uninsured or underinsured.

Senators Klobuchar, Smith Announce Significant Federal Funds to Increase Outdoor Access in Minnesota

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (both D-MN) announced significant new federal funding to support outdoor access and recreation in Minnesota following Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland’s visit to the state. The new projects include outdoor recreation additions to the North End Community Center in St. Paul, improvements to Soldiers Field Park in Rochester, and an expansion and renovation of Willard Park in Minneapolis. “With our state’s lakes, parks, and trails, getting outside is central to Minnesotans’ way of life,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “By expanding green spaces and creating new outdoor recreational opportunities, this funding will help ensure that

Sen. Smith, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Expand Access to Clean, Affordable Heating and Energy

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) joined Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and six of their colleagues in introducing legislation to expand access to clean, affordable heating and lower energy costs for consumers. The Heating Efficiency and Affordability through Tax Relief (HEATR) Act would create a manufacturer tax credit to incentivize production of high-efficiency, safe, and affordable heat pumps.  In addition to Smith, the legislation is also sponsored by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Cory Booker (D-NJ).  “Far too many households across our state struggle to afford their heating costs.

Klobuchar, Smith Lead Minnesota Delegation In Requesting Aid for Farmers Impacted by Storms

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN), both members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, led the entire Minnesota Congressional delegation in urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide federal assistance for Minnesota farmers and communities impacted by storms and natural disasters this spring harvest. The lawmakers offered their support for Governor Tim Walz’s request for a Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator’s Physical Loss Notice (APLN) to assist farmers that are recovering from historically adverse weather conditions this spring.  “Weather conditions in our state this spring have been historically cold and wet…

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