KENNEDY PRAISES SENATE PASSAGE OF STUDENT LOAN BILL
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, issued the following statement on Senate passage of the Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008:
KENNEDY ON PETRAEUS ANNOUNCEMENT
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the announcement that General David Petraeus will become the next commander of the U.S. Central Command.
KENNEDY COMMENDS ADMINISTRATION’S SUPPORT OF STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the letter sent by Margaret Spellings, Secretary of Education, Henry M. Paulson, Secretary of the Treasurer, and Jim Nussle, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, stating the Administration’s support of the student loan program amidst the credit crisis.
KENNEDY ON EQUAL PAY DAY, IN SUPPORT OF LILLY LEDBETTER FAIR PAY ACT
Today is Equal Pay Day. It is a time to rededicate ourselves to the core principle of equal pay for equal work, a principle at the heart of this nation’s commitment to fairness in the workplace. When President Kennedy signed the Equal Pay Act in 1963, he reminded us that protection against pay discrimination is “basic to democracy,” and those words are still true today.
KENNEDY ON RESTORING EQUAL PAY, CIVIL RIGHTS FOR ALL
The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act will ensure that the bipartisan equal pay laws enacted by overwhelming majorities in Congress do what they are supposed to do—protect workers against pay discrimination.
KENNEDY IN SUPPORT OF THE FAIR PAY RESTORATION ACT
Earlier this month, we honored the 40th anniversary of the death of Dr. Martin Luther King. Each year on this anniversary we get together and speak glowingly of Dr. King’s life and work. These words are important – make no mistake. But even more important than honoring Dr. King with words, is honoring Dr. King with action. Today, we have the opportunity to do that by passing the Fair Pay Restoration Act. The right to equal pay for equal work is a fundamental civil right. Indeed, Dr. King was in Memphis on that fateful day in April 1968 to protest pay discrimination against black Memphis sanitation workers.
KENNEDY COMMENTS ON ECONOMIC CRISIS, IMPACT ON WORKERS
Speaks before the Massachusetts Building and Construction Trades
It’s a privilege and an honor to address the members of our Massachusetts Building Trades. You’re the ones who build our communities so well—our homes, our schools, our roads, our bridges, and our office buildings. You’ve worked hard as well to build a better life for yourselves and your families in our Commonwealth. Now, we also need your help in rebuilding this great nation of ours.
KENNEDY ON CLIMATE CHANGE AS A CHALLENGE FOR PUBLIC HEALTH
In recent years, the public awareness and concern about climate change have reached unprecedented levels. We’re learning what climate change means for the earth, with melting ice caps and the rising sea levels. But important as that is, the issue is about much more than that. It’s also about us and our children and our grandchildren. People in all countries will be affected by changes in the earth’s climate, and one of the principal consequences will be for our personal health. We’re holding this hearing today because climate change will have a direct impact on health, and it’s time to pay attention to this problem.
KENNEDY REACTION TO BUSH ON IRAQ
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in reaction to President Bush’s remarks on Iraq earlier today.
“It’s abundantly clear that President Bush is simply trying to “run out the clock” and hand off the mess to the next President. Giving General Petraeus “all the time he needs” is more of the same open-ended commitment the American people have rejected. It does nothing to force the Iraqis to take responsibility for their own future and make tough accommodations, and it breaks faith with our men and women in uniform who are bearing the heaviest burden of the President’s failed policy.”
KENNEDY ON 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF NORTHERN IRELAND PEACE AGREEMENT
WASHINGTON, DC— Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in remembrance of the 10th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland.
“Today, we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the historic Good Friday Agreement, which put Northern Ireland on the path to reconciliation and peace after decades of violence, bloodshed and deep mistrust.
KENNEDY ON STUDENT LOAN HOUSE MARK-UP
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the House Education and Labor Committee markup of legislation related to student loans. Chairman Kennedy introduced student loan legislation last week.
Senator Kennedy’s legislation would reduce students’ and families’ reliance on high-cost private loans by increasing federal aid and would take important steps to strengthen the student loan program. Schools can ensure that students eligible for federally-backed loans can access them through the Direct Loan program, which does not rely on capital from the volatile private market. The Senator has urged schools to consider this option to protect their students. His legislation, however, also takes steps to strengthen the Federal Family Education Loan program to ensure that students can continue to access loans from private lenders if they so choose. The bill provides an alternative capital source for lenders who need it to continue making federal loans, at a minimal cost to taxpayers.
KENNEDY ON 4,000 AMERICAN CASUALTIES IN IRAQ
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the announcement that 4,000 American troops have lost their lives in Iraq.
KENNEDY ON EEOC ‘ENGLISH ONLY’ AMENDMENT PASSAGE
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the passage of Senator Alexander’s budget amendment, #4222, which reduces the EEOC’s budget by $670,000.
KENNEDY ON FDA BUDGET INCREASE
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the passage of budget amendment # 4148, which will increase the amount allocated for the FDA by $71 million, for a total increase for FY 2009 of $375.
KENNEDY ON GONZALES DHS RESIGNATION
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the announcement that Emilio Gonzales, the director of Citizenship and Immigration Services at the Department of Homeland Security, will resign on April 18th.
KENNEDY RESPONDS TO PRESIDENT’S REMARKS ON FISA
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to President Bush’s remarks on FISA this morning.
“Once again, the President continues to try to bully the Congress and mislead the American people on the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. He refuses to accept that under our system of government, neither the President nor the telecommunications companies gets to decide which laws to follow and which to ignore.
KENNEDY IN SUPPORT OF DEMOCRATIC BUDGET
Our budget puts working families first – not Wall Street, but Main Street America.
Long before the experts began sounding the alarm, working families knew that our economy wasn’t working for them. They know that when the economy is wrong, nothing else is quite right.
Their mortgages were going up and banks were foreclosing on their homes.
Gas prices and heating oil prices were going through the roof.
KENNEDY ON PRESIDENT’S VETO OF ANTI-TORTURE LEGISLATION
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy today released the following statement on President Bush’s forthcoming veto of the Intelligence Authorization Bill. The bill includes a provision requiring all U.S. government interrogations to comply with the Army Field Manual, which prohibits techniques widely regarded as torture, such as waterboarding, attack dogs, and electric shocks.
KENNEDY ON CREDIT MARKET SITUATION AND STUDENT LOANS
Americans are anxious about their economic futures. They’re seeing volatile markets, disappearing jobs, home foreclosures, rising debt, and declining benefits. Now the crisis in the credit markets stemming from irresponsible lending practices in the mortgage industry may impact their ability to secure student loans at fair rates so their children can go to the college of their choice.
KENNEDY ON DECLINING JOB NUMBERS
WASHINGTON, DC— Today’s jobs numbers show a loss of 63,000 jobs. Senator Edward M. Kennedy issued the following statement:
"The bad economic news continues to mount. Today’s job losses—the worst in five years—emphasize the urgent need for more effective action. Extending and improving unemployment benefits is the best way to bring immediate help to the millions who are out of work and provide a much-needed jump-start to our economy. Congress should have included this support in the recent stimulus law, and we should correct that mistake as soon as possible.”
KENNEDY ON UNEMPLOYMENT AND THE NEED TO HELP WORKING FAMILIES
In recent weeks, we’ve seen numerous warning signs that our economy is headed in the wrong direction. Working families know better than anyone that times are tough. They worry about putting food on the table, heating their homes, paying their medical bills, and paying their mortgages. Perhaps more than anything, they’re worried about their jobs.
KENNEDY QUESTIONS FBI DIRECTOR MUELLER ON NATURALIZATION PROCESS
Last year, after it was announced that the fees for naturalization would be more than doubled from $330 to $595, almost a million and a half immigrants applied for naturalization, and 1 million of them are still waiting. These are people who have made America their home. They’ve raised their families here, worked hard and paid taxes. Thousands of them have served in our armed forces, many in Iraq and Afghanistan, and they deserve to become citizens if they qualify.
Until this Administration, citizenship applicants could rest assured that they would be sworn in as new citizens within six months after they applied for naturalization. Prior to last year, this Administration was itself completing the adjudications within seven months. But now it is projecting delays of 16 to 18 months. This is an outrage.
KENNEDY HONORS SISTER AT NAMING OF EUNICE KENNEDY SHRIVER NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH AND HUM
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy attended a ceremony to rename the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) in honor of his sister, Eunice Kennedy Shriver. A life-long supporter and advocate for people with disabilities, Mrs. Shriver was also inducted into the NIHCH Hall of Honor for her role in founding the institute 45 years ago.
KENNEDY RESPONDS TO PRESIDENT’S REMARKS ON FISA
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to President Bush’s remarks on FISA this morning.
KENNEDY ON LEGISLATION PREVENTING TORTURE
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement on the passage by the United States Senate of the Intelligence Authorization Bill, which includes provision that will require all U.S. Government interrogators to comply with the Army Field Manual’s standards on interrogation.
KENNEDY ON HHS CREATION OF PATIENT SAFETY ORGANIZATIONS
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the new regulation proposed by the Department of Health and Human Services, which establishes Patient Safety Organizations (PSOs).
KENNEDY ADDRESSES HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE ISSUES
To create a healthy nation we must not only have health care professionals that are excellently trained—we need health care professionals that are excellently trained in the right fields and practicing in the communities that need them the most. Over the years, experts have predicted a physician shortage, only to change those projections years later. We’ve heard of shortages in one specialty or another, only to have that prediction change as well. But one thing that has remained constant is the need for a strong network of primary care providers.
KENNEDY ON PASSAGE OF FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE ACT
The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act is one of our landmark statutes. For three decades, it has carefully regulated government surveillance in a way that protects both our national security and our civil liberties and prevents the government from abusing its powers. It is because FISA enhances both security and liberty that it has won broad support over the years from presidents, Congress, and the public alike.
KENNEDY ON PRESIDENT’S ECONOMIC REPORT
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, today released the following statement in response to the publication of the President’s annual Economic Report.
KENNEDY APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF HOUSE HEA BILL
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement applauding the passage by the United States House of Representatives of a higher education reauthorization bill.
KENNEDY ON PASSAGE OF ECONOMIC STIMULUS PACKAGE
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement on the passage of the Senate economic stimulus package.
KENNEDY ON CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE COST ESTIMATES OF THE FEDERAL STUDENT LOAN PROGRAMS
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, released new data from the Congressional Budget Office reaffirming that the Federal Direct Loan Program costs less to taxpayers than the Federal Family Education Loan Program, the program that subsidizes banks to make federal student loans. According to CBO’s analysis, the FFEL program currently costs taxpayers $14.55 more per $100 loaned than the Direct Loan program. CBO’s analysis takes into account changes to FFEL program subsidy rates enacted in the College Cost Reduction and Access Act (CCRAA), which was signed into law in September 2007, and is based on the updated budget baseline released by CBO in January.
KENNEDY ON 9.5% STUDENT LOAN SCANDAL
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, the U.S. Department of Education informed Congress that seven Federal Family Education Program lenders will be allowed to resume billing for “9.5% loans,” the category of student loans under which lenders are eligible to receive an inflated 9.5% rate of return. The decision follows the completion of audits which identified that the seven lenders hold $650 million in student loans that are eligible for the 9.5 percent subsidy. Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, issued the following statement:
KENNEDY ON FISA VETO THREAT
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence threatening a veto of the FISA bill.
Kennedy Endorses Barack Obama
The stories have been pouring in from Senator Kennedy’s endorsement of Barack Obama. Here are a few:
The Kennedy Mystique
David Brooks, New York Times, 1/29/08
The Kennedy endorsements will help among working-class Democrats, Catholics and the millions of Americans who have followed Caroline’s path to maturity. Furthermore, here was Senator Kennedy, the consummate legislative craftsman, vouching for the fact that Obama is ready to be president on Day One.
Ted Kennedy Matters
Marc Ambinder, The Atlantic, 1/28/08
Ted Kennedy matters. Forget the casual association of his name with blocks of Democrats Obama needs to do better with, like union members and downscale workers, Latinos and older liberals.
It allows Obama to further clarify what, for him, the Old Politics is all about—that is, it allows him to separate the Politics of the Clintons from the politics of Democrats before the Clinton administration—a party dominated by the Kennedy dynasty and their patrons, in many respects. And the The New Kennedy is even more of an attractive figure, in some respects. He has never shirked the responsibility of Democrats to beat up Republicans, but throughout his career, he has demonstrated a long arm for compromise. Most recently, He worked with President Bush on No Child Left Behind and with Mitt Romney (whether Romney currently accepts it or not) on health care in Massachusetts.
KENNEDY ON PRESIDENT’S BROKEN PROMISES
I predict that after hearing the President’s speech Monday night, Americans will be more convinced than ever that it’s time for change.They’ve heard seven long years of broken promises from this Administration.That’s what this election is all about. Electing leaders who will keep faith with the hopes and needs of working Americans.
On Monday night, I fear we won’t hear a plan for the issues that matter most to Americans.
KENNEDY ON HOUSE ECONOMIC STIMULUS AGREEMENT
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the announcement that an economic stimulus deal has been reached in the United States House of Representatives.
KENNEDY ON HOUSE CHIP VOTE
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the United States House of Representatives failing to override President Bush’s veto of the Children’s Health Insurance Program. "American families want real solutions to the problems they face. There is no priority more urgent than providing affordable health care for children. Our CHIP legislation has been approved by strong bipartisan majorities in the House and the Senate, and it’s outrageous that the President and his allies in Congress continue to stand in the way of the change that the American people demand."
KENNEDY, COLLEAGUES QUESTION MUKASEY ON WATERBOARDING
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy and nine Senate colleagues sent the following letter to Attorney General Michael Mukasey, asking him to clarify his positions on waterboarding and other interrogation techniques. Attorney General Mukasey was previously asked about his stance on whether or not waterboarding constitutes torture on multiple occasions, but more than two months have passed since his confirmation. The letter asks specifically if Attorney General Mukasey believes that waterboarding, as well as other forms of coercive techniques, are illegal under United States law.
KENNEDY ON BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s introduction of the “Pathway to Covering America: Ensuring Quality, Value, and Access,” a plan to secure health insurance for all Americans.
The Moment That Carried This Day
Washington Post
By Allison Silberberg
Monday, January 21, 2008; A15 As we honor the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. today, it bears remembering how the holiday came to be.The legislation proposing creation of a federal holiday was not at all assured in the fall of 1983. The Democratic-controlled House had passed its bill in August with bipartisan support, but Democrats in the GOP-controlled Senate faced a fight despite support from some prominent Republicans. President Ronald Reagan was against this type of memorial. Many Republicans said they opposed it for economic reasons, arguing that our nation couldn’t afford another federal holiday.
Home Heat Help Here
By Robin Kaminski
Lynn Dailey Item
1-18-08
LYNN - A total of $450 million in emergency relief funds were released Wednesday by the federal government to assist needy families, with roughly $27.2 million targeted for Massachusetts.
Record low temperatures have all but squeezed cash strapped families across the city struggling to keep their households warm, and they are still in danger of running out of heat in the dead of winter according to Lynn Economic Opportunity, Inc. (LEO) Executive Director John Mogielnicki.
Congress keen on economic stimulus
By MARILYN GEEWAX
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 01/17/08
Washington — With economic news growing bleaker by the day, leaders in Congress pledged Wednesday to work together to quickly brighten the outlook.
"Help is on the way," Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) said after a hearing where former Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers recommended that the government spend up to $150 billion to ward off a potentially "long and severe" recession.
"We are prepared to take action," Kennedy said following Summers’ testimony.
House leaders also are worried about the economic damage being done by rising oil prices, a slumping housing market and a credit crunch. After a meeting with House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said she is "optimistic" that action will come soon.
Expert Says $150 Billion Stimulus Needed
Jan. 17, 2008
By ANDREW TAYLOR – 2 days ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — The economy has worsened to the point where Congress should pass an economic stimulus bill of up to $150 billion, former Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers told lawmakers Wednesday.
Summers, an economics professor at Harvard University, had previously said $50 billion to $75 billion in tax cuts and pump-priming government spending is needed to boost the sagging economy. Now, his recommendation is double that — though perhaps employing a "trigger" that would release the money only if the economy worsens further.
$450 million in federal home heating aid given to states
Jan. 17, 2008
By KIMBERLY HEFLING Associated Press Writer
The Associated Press
WASHINGTON
The Bush administration on Wednesday released $450 million in emergency relief funds, including nearly $5 million for Rhode Island, to help needy residents pay soaring heating bills.
Lawmakers and heating aid advocates had pressed President Bush to provide additional funding to states through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
Rhode Island is in line for $4.47 million in emergency money. The state was already getting about $13.4 million from the basic LIHEAP program. About 30,000 households relied on LIHEAP aid last year, officials said.
"With temperatures dropping and energy prices rising, this release of LIHEAP contingency funds is sorely needed," Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I., said in a statement. "This emergency funding will help thousands of working families and seniors in Rhode Island keep their heat turned on this winter."
KENNEDY ON ECONOMIC DOWNTURN
When the economy is wrong, nothing else is right for working families. Hard-working families are losing their jobs, their homes, their health care and their hope. More and more families across America wish they could look to the future, but they’re just trying to get through today.We’re here to say, “We hear you. We’re here to work for you.”Under the leadership of Senator Reid and Speaker Pelosi, we’re ready to sit down with our Republican colleagues and the White House to develop responsible legislation that will help families through these tough times and begin the task of rebuilding the economy for the future.
KENNEDY ON IRAQ SURGE ANNIVERSARY
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement on the anniversary of President Bush’s announcement of the surge strategy in Iraq.
“When President Bush announced the surge one year ago, he said a successful strategy for Iraq goes beyond military operations. He said the surge will give the Iraqi government the “breathing space it needs to make progress in other critical areas… and reducing the violence in Baghdad will help make reconciliation possible.”
KENNEDY RESPONDS TO BUSH ON NCLB ON THE EVE OF ANNIVERSARY
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to President Bush’s remarks on the No Child Left Behind Act made today at the Greeley Elementary School in Chicago, Illinois. Tomorrow is the sixth anniversary of the enactment of the law.
How To Fix ‘No Child’
With renewal of the No Child Left Behind Act high on the agenda for the new session of Congress, it’s no surprise that the 2002 law—the Bush administration’s signature domestic initiative—has become a political football in this intense campaign season. The administration continues to speak glowingly of the law while Democratic candidates blast it. But simplistic campaign rhetoric hardly reflects what’s actually happening on school reform.
KENNEDY ON DOJ INVESTIGATION INTO CIA INTERROGATION TAPES
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the Department of Justice’s announcement that a criminal investigation has been opened into the destruction of CIA interrogation videotapes.
KENNEDY ON IRAQ WAR FUNDING
I support this amendment.It is wrong to provide yet another blank check to President Bush for his failed Iraq policy. I support our troops, but I oppose this war. Our military has served nobly in Iraq and done everything we have asked them to do. But they’re caught in a continuing quagmire, and the long hoped—political solution is still as elusive as ever.
KENNEDY ASKS FBI FOR INTERROGATION TAPES
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy sent the following letter to Robert S. Mueller III, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, regarding the destruction by the CIA of videotapes of the interrogation of two detainees.
KENNEDY ON SECOND BUSH VETO OF CHIP
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to President Bush vetoing the Children’s Health Insurance Program for the second time.
KENNEDY REACTION TO BUSH ON HEAD START ENACTMENT
I applaud President Bush for enacting this landmark reauthorization of the Head Start program. By an overwhelming margin, Congress has elected to keep Head Start on its successful path, and to enable the program to thrive and improve. With this bill, we’re reaching out early to make greater opportunities available for thousands of our neediest children. We’re providing a fairer chance for very young children to grow up healthy and safe. We’re preparing them to enter school ready to learn, and to graduate from high school ready to go on to college and achieve the American dream.
KENNEDY ON PUBLIC SAFETY EMPLOYEE-EMPLOYEE COOPERATION AMENDMENT
Public safety workers are on the front lines of our effort to keep communities in America safe. They’re on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, doing backbreaking, difficult work. They never blink or falter. They do their duty and they do it well. · When devastating fires raged through Southern California, they battled the blazes. · When the I-35 bridge collapsed in Minneapolis, they were first on the scene.· When massive tragedy hit New York City on 9/11, their heroic work inspired the nation and restored our spirit.
KENNEDY COMMENTS ON PRESIDENTS’S EMERGENCY PLAN FOR AIDS RELIEF
There are many issues before us that have wide-ranging effects on vast numbers of people. But few are as consequential as our response to the global HIV/AIDS epidemic where entire societies are at risk.Sometimes history is changed by great leaders, by wars, or by scientific breakthroughs. And sometimes history is transformed by something as tiny as a virus. We have seen the devastating effects of HIV/AIDS on our own shores with our own citizens. The fight against HIV/AIDS here at home continues as we are reminded that our responsibilities here at home are far from over.
KENNEDY AND COLLEAGUES ON THE IRAQI REFUGEE PROVISIONS IN THE DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION CONFERENCE REPOR
Provisions provide refugee status for Iraqis associated with the United States who are under threat of persecutionWASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senators Edward M. Kennedy, Gordon Smith, Carl Levin, and Sam Brownback released the following statements on the signing of the Department of Defense Authorization Conference Report which contains provisions that would provide refugee status for Iraqis associated with the United States who are under threat of persecution.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON CIA INTERROGATION TAPES
The torture debate took another deeply troubling turn yesterday. The nation learned the CIA had destroyed videotapes of its employees in the act of using torture or other harsh interrogation techniques on detainees. Those tapes were not shown to Congress. They were not shown to any court. They were not shown to the bipartisan 9-11 Commission. Instead, they were destroyed.
SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON INCREASING FDA RESOURCES
There are some debates in Washington that you need to be an expert to understand. And there are others that are as plain as the headlines in the morning paper.Here’s the headline from the Washington Post from November 11th: “Chinese Government Admits Toys Contained ‘Date Rape’ Chemical.”November 29th from the Post: “Bad Pet Food May Have Killed Nearly 350.”September 27th from the Associated Press: “Hamburgers may be tainted with E. Coli”October 31st from the New York Times: “Chinese Chemicals Flow Unchecked to Market.”And here’s one just from today.
KENNEDY RESPONDS TO BUSH ON IRAN
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to President Bush’s remarks on Iran. “Obviously, we have to address continuing challenges from Iran. We need to ratchet up our diplomacy and continue working with the international community. But it’s time for the President to look at the cold hard facts on Iran and walk back from the over-heated rhetoric. The last thing America needs is to be misled into another war based on hype and trumped up intelligence.”
KENNEDY IN SUPPORT OF HARD- WORKING AMERICAN FAMILIES
In an address in Virginia the day before Thanksgiving, President Bush described America as “a nation of great prosperity” with a “strong and growing economy” where it is possible for “people of all backgrounds to rise in society and realize their dreams.” As we return from Thanksgiving and look to the Christmas season, we’d all like to believe that vision. We all want to live in a land of opportunity where – with hard work and sacrifice – we can make our dreams come true.
KENNEDY RESPONDS TO BUSH ON NATIONAL PRIORITIES
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to President Bush’s remarks this morning. “Instead of working together to confront the serious issues facing our nation here at home and abroad, this Administration and its Republican allies in Congress continue to play politics. The American people spoke loudly in the last election and Republicans have yet to receive the message. It’s incomprehensible that while this Administration spends half a trillion dollars on a war in Iraq with no clear end in sight, President Bush says we can’t afford the important programs that would provide health care coverage to poor children, money for our schools, and funding for important cancer research programs here at home. Americans are sick of political theater and want to see results.”
KENNEDY ON TROOP WITHDRAWAL LEGISLATION
I oppose the minority leader’s effort to provide yet another blank check to President Bush for his failed Iraq policy. I will support legislation approved yesterday in the House of Representatives requiring the President to begin to bring our combat troops out of Iraq in one month and complete the withdrawal by December of next year. I hope the Senate will support it. And I hope President Bush will sign it into law.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE HEAD START CONFERENCE REPORT
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the passage by the United States House of Representatives of the Head Start Conference Report. “Today’s vote by the House of Representatives will give the nation’s low-income children a better Head Start on the American Dream.
KENNEDY ON BUSH VETO OF LABOR HHS BILL
Last week, Congress took bold action on behalf of American families by sending an appropriations bill to the President that has important new investments in the every day needs and hopes and dreams of the American people. It’s the bill that funds our investments in education, in health care and in American jobs. These are not optional investments. They’re not just nice little programs that can be funded one year and cast aside the next.These investments are about hope and opportunity for our children. They are about the dignity of middle class and working families all across America. They are about our national strength. Unfortunately, it appears once again that the every day concerns of the American people have fallen on deaf ears in the White House. This morning, the President vetoed this pro-family, pro-child, pro-worker legislation.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE ACT
This is an important mark-up. The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act is one of our landmark statutes. For nearly 30 years, it has regulated government surveillance in a way that protects both our national security and our civil liberties and prevents the government from abusing its powers. It is because FISA enhances both security and liberty that it has won such broad support over the years from presidents, members of Congress, and the public alike.
KENNEDY ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF ENDA
WASHINGTON, DC— Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the passage by the United States House of Representatives of the Employment Non- Discrimination Act.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON LABOR HHS
More than any other appropriations bill that we will consider this year, this bill is about the strength and well-being of America’s families. It gives our children a chance for a better education. It keeps workers safe and makes sure they are paid a proper and legal wage to support their families. It invests in improved health care to keep our families healthy and strong.This is what Americans want us to invest in – better education, better jobs and better health care.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY IN OPPOSITION TO THE NOMINATION OF MICHAEL MUKASEY
The Department of Justice is in dire need of new leadership to guide our nation back to its constitutional moorings. Under Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, the Department lost its way as a genuine force for justice. It too often served as a rubber stamp for the White House and as a facilitator and enforcer of political objectives rather than the rule of law. After a period of such tarnished leadership in the Department, we need a clear, decisive and straightforward Attorney General who is not afraid to stand up for the constitution and the rule of law – even if it means disagreeing with the President of the United States.
KENNEDY ON SENATE CHIP VOTE
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the passage by the United States Senate of the Children’s Health Insurance Program.
“Today’s Senate vote was an important measure of our humanity. Now it’s time for the President to measure up. For the sake of our children and for the sake of our nation, I urge the President to sign this bipartisan compromise children’s health legislation.”
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON MUKASEY NOMINATION
I intend to oppose the nomination of Michael B. Mukasey to be the next Attorney General of the United States. This is a nomination I had hoped to support. There is no doubt the Department of Justice is in desperate need of new leadership. Under Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, the Department was transformed from a genuine force for justice into a rubber stamp for others in the Administration who cared little for the rule of law. The Office of Legal Counsel, and the Attorney General himself, repeatedly authorized programs of torturing detainees and wiretapping Americans that were both illegal and immoral. Career attorneys who spoke up were marginalized or transferred to dead-end jobs. U.S. attorneys were fired if they refused to take orders from the White House as to who should be prosecuted.
KENNEDY CALLS ON PRESIDENT BUSH TO GET CHILDREN THE HEALTH CARE THEY NEED
It’s a privilege to join my colleagues to support children’s health. I commend too the former Assistant Surgeon General, Dr. Woodie Kessel for his courage in speaking out for children. He has worked tirelessly for children’s health in Republican and Democratic Administrations alike – and he recognizes that a strong, bipartisan CHIP bill is the most important step we can take to improve the health of America’s children.
We’re here today to say there’s no higher priority in America than our children. When we shortchange our children, we shortchange our future.
It’s almost unimaginable that an American President could tell American parents that we can’t afford health care for American children.
SENATOR KENNEDY IN RESPONSE TO DEPT. OF EDUCATION’S NEW STUDENT LOAN ETHICS REGULATIONS
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the Department of Education’s new regulations for student loan ethics. “The new regulations are largely consistent with the reforms the Senate passed earlier this year, and should help curtail inappropriate relationships between college and lenders that make federal student loans. But there’s more to be done—lenders who offer private student loans should also be covered by these rules. I look forward to ensuring they are as the renewal of the Higher Education Act moves forward.”
KENNEDY FIGHTS FOR CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE
Today, we continue our debate on the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Yesterday, I spoke of the legislation that is before the Senate, and described the many concessions that the bipartisan coalition supporting this bill has made to broaden support for our proposal.
It is important to discuss and understand the specifics of the legislation, and our debate will make sure that our colleagues will be able to sort the truth from the many fictions about this bipartisan proposal.
But the core of our debate is not about this provision or that subclause – it’s a fundamental choice on priorities.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE DREAM ACT
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the failure by the United States Senate to bring the DREAM Act to the floor for debate.
“By refusing to take up the DREAM Act, the Senate has once more crushed the hopes of thousands of talented, young men and women who know no other home but America. The Administration’s eleventh hour opposition to the bill indicates that the White House has little interest in making even an obvious down payment on immigration reform, preferring to deny dreams and deport young men and women who have so much to give this country. The vote may have failed, but the debate is far from over. I’m confident that, in the end, the DREAM Act will become law, but not before more lives are ruined by today’s inaction.”
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE NOMINATION OF MICHAEL MUKASEY FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL
United States Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee will begin hearings on the nomination of Michael Mukasey to be the Attorney General of the United States. The nomination comes at a critical time. The next Attorney General will make decisions on issues of vital importance to all Americans. The nation faces challenges on national security, civil rights and civil liberties, criminal justice, immigration, and many other pressing topics. Unfortunately, the Department has failed to meet these challenges under this Administration. Instead, as the scandal over the firing of U.S. Attorneys has shown, the Department has spent the past few years playing politics with the rule of law, and the nation’s interests have suffered as a result. The next Attorney General will face enormous challenges in restoring the rule of law in both the Department of Justice and the Administration. Every member of the Senate, and especially members of the Judiciary Committee, has a duty to ask thorough questions about how these challenges will be addressed.
STATEMENT FROM THE OFFICE OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY
"As part of a routine evaluation of Senator Kennedy’s back and spine, MRI studies picked up an unrelated, asymptomatic blockage in the Senator’s left carotid artery. This morning, Senator Kennedy underwent preventive surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital to remove the blockage. The surgery, which was performed by Doctor Richard Cambria, was routine and successful. After a very brief recovery period, Senator Kennedy will resume his normal schedule in Washington and in Massachusetts."
STATEMENT FROM OFFICE OF SENATOR KENNEDY
"Senator Kennedy was released from Massachusetts General Hospital yesterday following Friday’s successful surgery to remove blockage in his carotid artery. After a few days of rest at home in Hyannis Port, the Senator will return to the Senate."
KENNEDY ON NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to remarks made by President Bush on reauthorizing No Child Left Behind. President Bush met with Civil Rights leaders today to talk about the bill’s reauthorization.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON NEW TORTURE REVELATIONS
I rise in response to the shocking news reported on the front page of the New York Times: the Department of Justice gave legal advice authorizing the use of extreme interrogation techniques not only in 2002 and 2003, but also at least two more times in 2005. This revelation shows that the Justice Department has fallen even lower than we had realized, and that it is up to Congress to take a firm stand against torture because this Executive can never be trusted to do so. We’ve been here before. Before this morning, we already knew about an earlier opinion by the Office of Legal Counsel that authorized the use of torture. When this “torture memo” came to light, it inspired worldwide outrage and condemnation. America lost its moral high ground in the fight against terrorism, possibly for years to come. This memo and others like it violated the values we hold dear, undermined our intelligence gathering, and encouraged our enemies to respond in kind.
KENNEDY ON THE FEINGOLD AMENDMENT TO SET A TIMETABLE FOR WITHDRAWL OF TROOPS IN IRAQ
I’m pleased to be a cosponsor of the Feingold-Reid amendment. I strongly support our troops, but I strongly oppose the war. Our military has served nobly in Iraq and done everything we have asked them to do. But they are now caught in a quagmire. They are policing a civil war and implementing a policy that is not worthy of their enormous sacrifice. The best way to protect our troops and our national security is to put the Iraqis on notice that they need to take responsibility for their future, so that we can bring our troops back home to America.
SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE PRESIDENT’S VETO OF THE CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE PROG
Just a few minutes ago the President of the United States vetoed the children’s health insurance legislation that reflects the bipartisan support of the members of the House of Representatives and the Senate of the United States and has the support of children, families, of Americans all over the country. How could the President of the United States possibly veto this legislation? How could the president be so uninformed about the needs of these children? I think that this is probably the most in inexplicable veto in the history of the country. It is incomprehensible. It is intolerable. It’s unacceptable.
KENNEDY FIGHTS FOR HEALTH CARE FOR OUR NATION’S CHILDREN
This week’s broad bipartisan vote for children’s health in the House of Representatives was a stunning rebuke for the President and the politics of fear. For months, the Administration had spared no effort to hold opposition to children’s health care and even worked to increase it. They burned the phone lines with calls to members of the House, put pressure on governors to sway the Representatives from their states, and called in every last favor from their allies on K Street to try to bring this bill down.
Then, just as the House and Senate were beginning negotiations, the Administration even issued a directive form CMS that would further limit the income eligibility for CHIP and result in children across the country losing coverage.
All of this coming from a President, who, when running for office in 2004, the President said:
“America’s children must also have a healthy start in life. In a new term, we will lead an aggressive effort to enroll millions of poor children who are eligible but not signed up for the government’s health insurance programs. We will not allow a lack of attention, or information, to stand between these children and the health care they need.”
SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY IN SUPPORT OF THE HATE CRIMES BILL
As we mentioned at the opening this morning, there were going to be major decisions in the Senate this morning, one dealing with the children’s health issue, which we’ve had a good discussion on here this morning, and the other issue here on the hate crimes legislation, which we have been attempting to realize for a period of some 10 years we have voted on it. This is not a new issue to the Defense Authorization Legislation.
We have passed it by more than 60 votes in the last—on the last occasion we had it. We passed it by majority on other occasions. so for those that sort of suggest that this isn’t appropriate that we deal with this, the majority, republicans and democrats alike, have overwhelmingly supported the legislation, but it has been a strong minority that has resist resisted it and refused to let it move on into law.
And we finally are at a time and a place and a judgment where the House of Representatives now has moved in favor of the legislation, we have an opportunity today to do it. We haven’t taken an unreasonable period of time. And the application of this legislation and why it should be here is a very simple and basic and fundamental one.
KENNEDY, SMITH ON PASSAGE OF HATE CRIMES LEGISLATION
WASHINGTON, DC-- Today, Senators Edward Kennedy and Gordon Smith celebrated the passage of the Matthew Shepard Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007. This legislation will ensure that all our citizens are guaranteed equal protection under the law, and will strengthen the ability of federal, state, and local government investigate and prosecute hate crimes based on race, ethnic background, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and gender identity.
KENNEDY URGES SUPPORT FOR MATTHEW SHEPARD ACT
I urge my colleagues to join me, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, Senator Smith and 31 cosponsors of the Matthew Shepard Act by voting in favor of cloture and our underlying amendment today. Hate crimes are domestic terrorism. Like all terrorist acts, they seek to bring fear to whole communities through violence on a few. Just as we have committed ourselves to fighting terrorists who strike from abroad, we must make the same commitment to swift and strong justice against homegrown terrorists. We’ve worked hard to ensure that all our citizens can live without fear of victimization because of their race, their religion, or their national origin. We’ve made progress over the years, but we need stronger tools to ensure that all Americans are protected under the law.
Hate crimes challenge us to recognize the dignity of each individual at the most basic level. When victims are selected for violence because of who they are - because of the color of their skin or their sexual orientation - it is a crime that wounds all of us. Each person’s life is valuable, and even one life lost is too many. No member of society—no one—should be the victim of hate crimes. Today we can send a strong message that no one - no one - should be a victim of a hate crime because of their disability, their sexual orientation, gender or gender identity.
Boston Herald: A Victory for Students By Wayne Woodlief
By Wayne Woodlief | Thursday, September 27, 2007 | http://www.bostonherald.com | Columnists
The bill Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.) championed, and President Bush is scheduled to sign today, provides the biggest boost in college student loan aid since the GI Bill that followed World War II. That’s a victory in itself.
It increases Pell Grants by $1,000, raising individual grants to over $5,000. It caps monthly payments on loans from private and public sources at 15 percent. Try to soak students with sky-high rates - as some lenders did - and you’re now breaking the law. Finally, if you’re a firefighter, police officer, teacher, public health worker, member of the military or in several other public service positions, your loans will be forgiven after 10 years.
KENNEDY URGES PRESIDENT BUSH NOT TO VETO S-CHIP
A measure of a great society is how it treats its children. The actions of Congress and the President over the coming days will determine whether we meet that test. Today, there are still 9 million children without health insurance. That’s not just wrong, it’s outrageous – it is immoral. We have a chance – even a duty – this week to make a difference for these children by expanding the Children’s Health Insurance Program. In Saint Luke’s Gospel, we are told that Jesus instructed his disciples to “let the little children come unto me, and do not hinder them.” We urge Congress and the President to support our bipartisan legislation and let little children have health care.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE HATE CRIMES PREVENTION ACT OF 2007
At a time when our ideals are under attack by terrorists in other lands, it is more important than ever to demonstrate that we practice what we preach, and that we are doing all we can to root out the bigotry and prejudice in our own country that leads to violence here at home.
Crimes motivated by hate because of the victim’s race, religion, ethnic background, sexual orientation, disability, or gender are not confined to the geographical boundaries of our great nation. The current conflicts in the Middle East and Northern Ireland, the ethnic cleansing campaigns in Bosnia and Rwanda, or the Holocaust itself demonstrate that violence motivated by hate is a world-wide danger, and we have a special responsibility to combat it here at home.
This amendment will strengthen the Defense Authorization Act by protecting those who volunteer to serve in the military. The vast majority of our soldiers serve with honor and distinction. These men and women put their lives on the line to ensure our freedom and for that, we are truly grateful.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF CHIP
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the House passage of the Children’s Health Insurance Program.
“The House has voted for the most important advance in children’s health in a decade and so will the Senate. After vetoing bills to end the war in Iraq and to support life-saving stem cell research, it would be outrageous for President Bush to make uninsured children the latest casualty of his veto pen.”
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE UAW STRIKE
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the United Auto Workers Union going on strike.
"General Motors should return to the bargaining table as soon as possible. I urge GM to negotiate in good faith and to recognize the many sacrifices made by its workers and retirees in recent years to help the company."
Editorial: Legislation that benefits Americans
GHS
Sat Sep 22, 2007, 01:00 AM EDT
It’s easy to think of Congress as little more than a debating society, where partisan games, ideological rigidity and special interests conspire to keep anything from getting accomplished. Examples abound of Congress’s inability to address problems that put a squeeze on America’s middle class families. That’s why it’s worth recognizing progress on two bills that will bring concrete relief American families.
The first is the College Affordability and Access Act of 2007, which is now headed to the White House, where President Bush is expected to sign into law the largest increase in federal spending on student aid since the G.I. Bill sent a generation of veterans off to college.
If you missed the debate on this legislation, it is because, like much of Congress’s work, the real fight was between lawmakers who wanted to do something about the pressures steady double-digit increases in tuition were putting on students and their families and the lending institutions that have made hefty profits off of student loans.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE PASSAGE OF FDA BILL
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the passage of the Food and Drug Amendments Act of 2007.
"This important bill should give every American greater peace of mind every single day—every time we eat, take our medicine or see our doctor. Today’s action is a major victory for patients, medical progress, and every family that relies on the FDA for safe food and medicine. The legislation the Senate approved today renews our commitment to protecting the health of American families from potentially dangerous drugs and contaminated food."
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE HOUSE PASSAGE OF FDA BILL
Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the passage by the United States House of Representatives of the FDA Reauthorization bill.
"This bill will help every single American every single day as it is about the safety of all of our food and our prescription drugs. Hardly a day goes by without a new report of American families put at risk by unsafe foods, improperly tested imports, or dangerous side effects of powerful prescription drugs. FDA should be the gold standard for assuring the safety of American families, but that standard has become dangerously tarnished. The legislation that the House approves today will help FDA once again do the job that American consumers are counting on it to do to protect their health.
REMARKS OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE PASSAGE OF THE MENTAL HEALTH PARITY BILL
I would like to thank my colleague, Senator Domenici, for his tireless effort. And I want to recognize the work of the late Senator Paul Wellstone, who championed this fight for so many years. Without the leadership of these two remarkable Senators, we wouldn’t be here on this historic day.
Americans believe that we are all created equal.
This bill brings us closer to that ideal by ending health insurance discrimination for mental illnesses for 113 million Americans.
One in five Americans will face mental illness this year. Today the United States Senate says to them loud and clear, you will no longer suffer in the shadows. With this bill, your health insurance will cover your illness
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON PRESIDENT BUSH’S SPEECH
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in anticipation of President Bush’s address this evening on Iraq.
“Unfortunately, it is clear that the President will continue to stubbornly push, as he has for the last four years, for the same open-ended commitment of our troops.
Staying the course has put our troops in the impossible position of winning every battle, but never being allowed to win the war. Instead, the President’s policy has made our troops hostage to Iraqi politicians who have yet to show any willingness to make the tough decisions required to end their civil war.
It’s clear that President Bush intends to drag this process out month after month, year after year, so that he can hand his Iraqi policy off to the next President. We have to change our policy now. Until we do, our troops will continue shedding blood in the streets of Baghdad and our national security will remain at risk.”
SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY QUESTIONS GENERAL PETRAEUS
Everyone agrees that military action and reconciliation need to go hand in hand. General Jones said it. President Bush said it. You’ve said it.
In the counterinsurgency manual you wrote last December you specifically state that “military actions by themselves cannot achieve success in counterinsurgency… Tactical actions… must be linked… to the host nation’s essential political goals. Without those connections, lives and resources may be wasted for no real gain.” &nbs