Latest Releases
Klobuchar, Smith Secure Funding for Infrastructure Project in Harris
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that they secured $1,574,000 in funding in the Fiscal Year 2024 federal budget for a project to extend municipal sewer and water services in Harris. Klobuchar and Smith requested the funding along with U.S. Representative Pete Stauber (R-MN). “The City of Harris has been attracting new businesses, but the water and sewer service lines need to be expanded to accommodate the growing demand,” said Klobuchar. “With the federal funding we secured, Harris will be able to upgrade this important infrastructure.” “Minnesotans deserve to have safe, clean water,” said Smith. “The City of Harris is no exception, and this investment will update the city’s water and wastewater infrastructure system, directly impacting all of its residents.” Klobuchar and Smith have been actively involved in securing this federal funding for projects benefiting communities across the state through a process called “Congressionally Directed Spending” (CDS). During the CDS process, Klobuchar and Smith have considered project proposals and advocated for funding in close coordination with leaders from across the state. Projects are expected to receive funding over the next several months. ###
U.S. Senators Tina Smith, Bob Casey, Mazie Hirono Lead 39 Colleagues in Push for More Early Childhood Education and Childcare Funding
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Bob Casey (D-PA) and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) led 39 of their colleagues in a push to increase funding for childcare programs and early education in the FY2025 Appropriations bill. The Senators noted that $16 can be produced in benefits for every $1 spent on high-quality early education. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) also signed the letter. “High-quality, affordable child care and early childhood education remains out of reach for many families. In more than half of states in our country, the average annual cost of full-time, center-based child care is more expensive than the average annual cost of in-state college tuition,” wrote the Senators.“Half of Americans live in places with a shortage of licensed child care providers or slots, which particularly affects rural populations. While these workforce shortages have existed for years, these issues have only been exacerbated by the pandemic and its aftermath. Now is the time to increase the federal investment in early care and education and help all children achieve their full potential.” “Access to childcare and early education is essential, both for the safe and healthy development of our kids, and because it allows parents the freedom to pursue their careers and contribute to the economy,” said Senator Smith. “But right now, childcare is too expensive and inaccessible for too many families. I am proud to help lead this letter that calls for significant investments in childcare and early education for our kids in the next fiscal year.” The letter specifically requests: 1. Child Care
U.S. Senators Smith, Markey, Booker & U.S. Rep. Jackson Lee Renew Push to Make Juneteenth a Federal Holiday
WASHINGTON, D.C. [2/25/21]—Today, U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX18) renewed their push to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. The lawmakers said “Juneteenth,” observed on June 19, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and is also known as “Emancipation Day,” “Jubilee Day,” and “Juneteenth Independence Day.” On June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3, which announced that, in accordance with the Emancipation Proclamation, “all slaves are free.” Juneteenth is currently recognized by 47 states and the District of Columbia as an
U.S. Senators Smith, Markey, Booker & U.S. Rep. Jackson Lee Renew Push to Make Juneteenth a Federal Holiday
WASHINGTON, D.C. [2/25/21]—Today, U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX18) renewed their push to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. The lawmakers said “Juneteenth,” observed on June 19, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and is also known as “Emancipation Day,” “Jubilee Day,” and “Juneteenth Independence Day.” On June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3, which announced that, in accordance with the Emancipation Proclamation, “all slaves are free.” Juneteenth is currently recognized by 47 states and the District of Columbia as an
U.S. Senator Tina Smith Helps Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Open New Markets, Strengthen Operations for Small Meat Processing Plants
WASHINGTON, D.C. [02/25/21]—U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.) helped introduce bipartisan legislation to help small meat and poultry processors adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic and meet consumer demand. The Strengthening Local Processing Act, also led by U.S. Senator John Thune (R-S.D.), would provide training, education, and technical assistance grants to help small processing plants improve and streamline their operations. Additionally, it would open new markets by allowing inspector-approved meat products to be sold across state lines. “As a member of the Senate Ag Committee, I feel a strong responsibility to help address the vulnerabilities in meat processing that COVID-19 exposed,” said Sen. Smith. “I also want to create economic opportunity for small processing plants. This bipartisan bill will open new markets
U.S. Senator Tina Smith Introduces Legislation to Address Social Isolation and Loneliness Among Seniors Due to COVID-19
WASHINGTON, D.C. [02/25/21]—In an effort to address social isolation and loneliness amongst older adults during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, U.S. Senator Tina Smith introduced legislation to help older adults be socially connected and healthy. The Strengthening Social Connections Act would provide emergency supplemental funding to programs that strengthen social connectedness and address the negative health effects of social isolation. Sen. Smith is urging Senate and House leadership to include provisions from the bill in the next COVID-19 relief package. In a letter to Senate and House leaders, Sen. Smith said that many older adults who are staying home and avoiding in-person social contact with family and friends are unfortunately experiencing an extended period
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