Senator John Boozman

Working for Arkansans this August In-State Work Period

Mon, 229 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

The Senate has officially kicked off the August In-State Work Period, and I am glad to be back home in Arkansas and have the opportunity to visit with many Arkansans.

From highlighting the future of health care education to meeting with local businesses and celebrating community growth, I was reminded once again of the innovation, hard work and community spirit that make The Natural State such a special place to call home.

It was especially rewarding to tour the Lyon College School of Dental Medicine, our state’s first dental school and learn more about its effort to train the next generation of dentists right here in our state. I’m proud to have helped secure $15 million in federal funding to support this important investment in Arkansas’s future and meet real oral health needs. This institution will serve our communities, expand access to quality dental care and create new opportunities for Arkansans for years to come.

I also visited with several local forestry and trucking companies in Sheridan to hear directly from those helping keep Arkansas’s economy moving. This third-generation, family-owned forestry and logging company provides good-paying jobs, which helps strengthen rural communities. Our state’s forest industry has weathered good and bad years. Our entire congressional delegation is mindful of the important role it plays.

Businesses like these demonstrate how natural resources often serve as the lifeblood of a local economy and employ hardworking men and women. Protecting and strengthening these industries through pro-growth policies helps create a climate that delivers certainty and confidence for business owners.

In Tichnor, I joined Representative Rick Crawford (R-AR) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers leaders for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Three Rivers project, celebrating an important investment and a new chapter for this vital waterway. We have worked tirelessly, over years, to protect navigation on the MKARNS because it strengthens our supply chains and supports Arkansas’s economy. The progress we have made to ensure it remains operational and efficient will be felt for years to come.

Projects like this show what is possible when federal, state and local leaders work together to invest in the infrastructure that Arkansas communities need to thrive.

Finally, I also appreciated the chance to sit down with leaders at the Clinton National Airport. As a critical transportation hub that connects Arkansas to key cities across our country, it has been a privilege to assist them with achieving several priorities. That includes securing funding for a new curbside canopy, among other projects. I was pleased to learn more about future plans to further enhance its facilities and capacity.

In-State Work Periods are an important opportunity to step away from Washington and spend time with the people and communities I have the privilege of representing. Hearing directly from Arkansans, seeing the work being done in communities across our state and understanding the challenges and opportunities they face helps me better represent their interests in the Senate. It is also essential to crafting effective legislation.

I know that the best solutions come from the ground up rather than through orders from Washington. Whether it is strengthening our rural economy, expanding access to health care, improving infrastructure or supporting Arkansas businesses, these conversations help shape the priorities I take back to Capitol Hill.

There is no substitute for being out and about, listening to Arkansans and seeing firsthand the progress being made in communities across our state.

A New School Year, A New Opportunity

Tue, 223 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

As students across The Natural State head back to the classroom, I want to wish all Arkansas students, parents and educators a successful school year. Whether it is a child’s first day of kindergarten, a high school senior preparing for the next chapter or someone continuing their education later in life, each new school year brings a renewed sense of opportunity.

I am grateful for the teachers, administrators and school staff who dedicate their time and talents to helping Arkansas students succeed. Their commitment plays an essential role in preparing the next generation of leaders, innovators and community members.

Arkansas has made significant progress in empowering families to choose the best education option for their students and better support teachers, which we are excited to build on even more this year. As a former school board member, I remain committed to strengthening education and providing students with the tools they need to reach their full potential.

Because education extends beyond the classroom, my office works to connect students with opportunities to learn about government, public service and potential career paths. Programs like my Congressional Youth Cabinet and the Senate Page Program, along with internships with my staff in Washington, D.C. or Arkansas, provide students with firsthand experiences that help them better understand how government works.

The Congressional Youth Cabinet gives high school juniors hands-on engagement with public policy while exploring ways they can make a difference in their communities. The Senate Page Program allows high school students to experience our nation’s capital while playing a part in the daily work of Congress. College students can also apply for internships in my Capitol Hill or state offices to gain a deeper understanding of the legislative process and how we serve Arkansans.

I am proud of my office’s efforts to help students discover these opportunities and develop beneficial skills through public service. These experiences allow young Arkansans to put their civics knowledge into action and better understand the many ways they can contribute to their communities.

Investing in Arkansas students means investing in the future of our state. I am always inspired by the talent, determination and promise of the young people we welcome to these programs, and I look forward to seeing all they accomplish. To every student across our great state, I encourage you to work hard, stay curious and take any opportunity to learn something new.

Backing the Blue for Safer Communities

Mon, 222 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

The men and women in law enforcement dedicate their lives to protecting their neighbors, responding in moments of crisis and helping build stronger communities. They answer the call when others need help most and deserve our support and the tools necessary to serve safely and effectively.

To support public safety, we must build trust between law enforcement and those they serve.

Across The Natural State, National Night Out events give residents and officers the opportunity to create or maintain relationships outside of emergency situations. The Pine Bluff Police Department and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office hosted a joint event where residents could connect with the officers who serve them. Rogers and Springdale also hosted events recently that brought families and first responders together to reinforce healthy police-community partnerships. And a similar opportunity is scheduled for residents of Bentonville in October.

These gatherings remind us that the men and women behind the badge are also our neighbors, friends and fellow Arkansans.

But building trust must be matched with action. Our officers need the tools, training and resources to safely serve their communities and respond to the challenges they face every day.

Law enforcement agencies in our state recently received significant federal investments to support public safety. A federal STOP Formula Grant provided $1.8 million to strengthen statewide initiatives, while additional Byrne Justice Assistance Grants are helping departments purchase equipment, improve training and expand their ability to combat crime. I am pleased that the Working Families Tax Cuts package bolstered these successful programs so they can support even more law enforcement agencies with resources to combat violent crime.

I have also worked to secure targeted investments through the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process, including $5.5 million to establish the Arkansas Criminal Intelligence Network, allowing agencies to share critical information and evidence analysis in real time.

Additional funding I secured is supporting real-time crime centers in Jonesboro and Batesville, upgrades for the Bald Knob Police Department and resources for the Arkansas State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Crime does not stop at city or county lines, and our efforts to combat it shouldn’t either. By improving information sharing, expanding technology and strengthening partnerships between agencies, we can better protect Arkansas families.

Enhancing tools, resources and training for first responders is an important part of promoting public safety. And it is unquestionably necessary in light of the risks they face every day. That is something we must never lose sight of.

Earlier this summer, Arkansas lost one of these heroes when Marked Tree Police Officer Trevor Howard was killed while serving his community. On June 28, Officer Howard lost his life in a vehicle crash when an impaired driver struck his patrol vehicle after running a stop sign. His fellow officer, Anthony Johnson, was also injured and has since recovered.

Officer Howard served with the Marked Tree Police Department for nearly two months after spending five years with the Lawrence County Detention Center. He leaves behind family, fellow officers and a community grateful for the role he played in protecting them. We continue to keep his loved ones and colleagues in our thoughts and prayers.

Supporting law enforcement is an ongoing commitment. By strengthening trust between officers and the people they serve, providing agencies with the resources they need and honoring the sacrifices made by those who wear the badge, we can help build a safer, stronger Arkansas.

Boozman: Farm Bill Markup is Choice Between Voting to Help Farmers or More Rhetoric

Thu, 218 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON–U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) held a business meeting to mark up the Agricultural Act of 2026, legislation to modernize programs and policies in support of farmers, ranchers, foresters and rural communities.

The following is the Chairman’s opening statement as prepared for delivery:

“Good morning. I call to order today’s business meeting of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry to consider an original bill, the Agricultural Act of 2026, or what I like to call Farm Bill 2.0.

“Before I begin my formal comments, I would like to recognize my friend and colleague, Senator Mitch McConnell, who continues his recovery and is unable to join us for today's business meeting.

“I spoke with Senator McConnell yesterday. I know how much he would have wanted to be here to advocate for Kentucky's farmers and rural communities. Throughout his career, Senator McConnell has been a steadfast champion for the Bluegrass State's agricultural producers, advancing policies that expand opportunity, strengthen rural America, and enhance the competitiveness of American agriculture.

“He’s served on this committee his entire tenure in the Senate, and this is the eighth farm bill he has helped shape. Few members bring the depth of experience and institutional knowledge that he does or better understand how important this legislation is to America’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities.

“His leadership has helped deliver meaningful solutions for the men and women who work every day to feed, fuel, and clothe our nation. We wish him a full and speedy recovery, and we look forward to welcoming him back to the committee soon.

“During this journey of drafting a new farm bill, I have visited many states. While I was in North Dakota with my good friend Senator Hoeven, a woman told me that we needed to put more 'farm in the farm bill'. That statement stuck with me and has served as a mantra during this process.

“Last year we answered the call for more farm in the farm bill through the Working Families Tax Cuts.

“Those improvements delivered meaningful support to producers by strengthening commodity programs, expanding access to affordable crop insurance, improving disaster assistance, investing in animal health programs and making farm programs more responsive to the risks farmers face every today.

“The bill before you today, Farm Bill 2.0, is a sincere attempt to finalize our work for the farmers, ranchers, producers, and rural communities that are the backbone of our nation and give them the five-year farm bill they deserve. Beyond that, this legislation, once we adopt the en bloc amendment, represents the best and final offer I can make to address the concerns the minority has raised on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

“I want to be clear a two-year delay does not have the support of the majority in Congress or of the White House. The offer before you is the best and final offer. Should this legislation be defeated today, current law will remain in effect and states with poorly administered SNAP programs will begin to pay for a portion of benefit costs next year.

“We have worked very hard to provide a one-year extension. In return, we have gotten: 'It’s two years or nothing. And by the way, we don’t want to even discuss the farm bill until you give us two years.'

“How is that taking care of hardworking families trying to make a living in farm country? In the last year, Arkansas has had more farm bankruptcies than the last four and a half years combined.

“Finally, thanks to the efforts of Senators Fischer, Thune, Capito, and Daines we have included year-round E15. Today, senators will have an opportunity for the first time to advance out of committee, legislation that will authorize the blending of E15 year-round.

“I’m proud of the bill we put together. It builds on the House-passed Farm Bill. This is the best opportunity to do good things for our farmers, rural communities and the future of agriculture.

“This bill incorporates more than 100 bipartisan bills and priorities from my colleagues with feedback from farmers, ranchers, and rural community leaders.

“We took great effort to craft a bipartisan product that reflects the needs and ideas of producers from every region of the country.

“In Arkansas, producers are facing extraordinarily difficult circumstances. I’ve heard firsthand from farm families whose roots in agriculture stretch back generations. Today, many are being forced to decide whether to continue operating at a loss or close their operations for good.

“I know every member of this committee has heard similar stories from farmers back home. These are families who rise before dawn every day to grow the food, fuel and fiber that sustain our nation.

“They aren't asking for special treatment—they're asking for the certainty and support they need to keep farming.

“They're looking to us to act. They're looking to us for hope.

“This Farm Bill provides that hope. It gives producers the tools and confidence they need to keep farming, keep investing, and keep feeding America.

“This legislation is about far more than agricultural policy. It's about ensuring family farms remain viable, rural communities remain strong, and future generations have the opportunity to carry forward America's proud agricultural tradition.

“We have built a farm bill for the people who feed America and today we’ll see who talks about supporting farmers and who is voting to help farmers.

“I now recognize the Ranking Member for any comments she may have.”

Senate 340B Bipartisan Working Group Introduces Comprehensive 340B Reform Legislation

Wed, 217 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

Sens. Boozman, Moran, Baldwin, Capito, Kaine & Hickenlooper unveil SUSTAIN 340B Act...

Boozman Applauds Summer Interns on Service to Arkansas

Wed, 217 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

U.S. Senator John Boozman pictured with his Washington, D.C. interns on the steps of the U.S. Capitol.

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized the students who served as interns in his Washington, D.C. and Arkansas offices during the second summer session.

“Whether assisting constituents, supporting my staff or observing the legislative process firsthand, these talented students made meaningful contributions to our office,” Boozman said. “I appreciate the dedication and professionalism they demonstrated throughout the summer. I am confident this experience has encouraged them to continue pursuing opportunities to serve their communities and our country.”

Anna Abston, Catie Brewer, Ellie Gilbert, Anna Hale, Lauren Magre, George Rizzo and Abby Shoemaker completed a five-week internship in Boozman’s Capitol Hill office. Throughout the program, they supported his staff by assisting with constituent services, leading U.S. Capitol tours and contributing to legislative, communications and administrative projects. Each intern also spent a day shadowing Boozman, gaining the unique opportunity to observe the responsibilities of a U.S. senator and the day-to-day work of the Senate.

Anna Abston is from Little Rock and graduated from Pulaski Academy in 2023. She is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas studying economics with plans to attend law school upon graduation. She currently serves as the 105th Chief Justice of the Judicial Branch of Associated Student Government and has held roles in Chi Omega as well as Voter Outreach, Involvement, and Civic Education (VOICE), a registered student organization that she helped co-found in 2024.

Catie Brewer is from Conway and a 2023 graduate of St. Joseph Catholic School. She is a rising senior at the University of Central Arkansas, where she is double majoring in political science and communications. Catie is an active member of the Public Administration Club and early alumna member of Sigma Kappa. After graduating, she plans to pursue a joint Juris Doctor and Master of Public Relations degree.

Ellie Gilbert is from Fayetteville and graduated from Fayetteville High School in 2023. She is a rising senior studying marketing and legal studies through the Sam M. Walton College of Business honors program at the University of Arkansas. Ellie serves as Vice President of Standards for Kappa Kappa Gamma and is a member of the All-University Conduct Board. She has also served in the Associated Student Government Senate and participated in the university’s ambassador program. Ellie plans to graduate in early in December before attending law school next fall.

Anna Hale is from Fort Smith and a 2023 graduate of Northside High School. She is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas double majoring in political science and legal studies with plans to graduate in December. On campus, Anna is a member of Phi Mu, Associated Student Government, Order of Omega and Volunteer Action Center. Following graduation, Anna hopes to begin her career on Capitol Hill and attend law school.

Lauren Magre is from Fayetteville and graduated from Fayetteville High School in 2023. She is a rising senior at Georgetown University pursing a degree in mathematics with minors in French and francophone studies in addition to justice and peace studies. Lauren is involved with Georgetown Students for Prison Justice, Hoya Taxa, the Pre-Law Society, Hoya Blue and Club Basketball. She plans to attend law school after graduating and is interested in a career in public service.

George Rizzo is from Warrenton, Virginia, and recently graduated summa cum laude from the University of Mary Washington (UMW) with a degree in business administration and a minor in financial and quantitative analysis. On campus, he served as Chairman of the Finance Club and developed a strong interest in the intersection of business, finance and public policy. George will begin pursuing a Master of Business Administration at William & Mary’s Raymond A. Mason School of Business this fall.

Abby Shoemaker is from Bentonville and a 2023 graduate of Bentonville High School. She is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas, double majoring in political science and social studies education. Abby serves as Chief of Staff for the Associated Student Government, building on her passion for state and local government and public policy. Upon graduating, Abby hopes to pursue a career in teaching, the nonprofit sector or government.

Carly Hickerson, Hayden Prescott and Sarah Reaves served in the senator’s Lowell and Little Rock offices, where they assisted with constituent relations and learned about the office’s casework services for Arkansans seeking assistance with federal agencies.

Hayden Prescott is from Frisco, Texas, and graduated from Frisco Memorial High School in 2022. He is a senior at the University of Arkansas studying political science with a pre-law emphasis. On campus, Hayden is a member of Beta Upsilon Chi. After graduating, Hayden plans to attend law school.

Sarah Reaves is from Maumelle and a 2023 graduate of Central Arkansas Christian. She is a rising senior at the University of Arkansas studying mathematics with a minor in legal studies. On campus, Sarah participates in Passionate About Literacy and Order of Omega. She is also a member of Delta Delta Delta. Upon graduation, Sarah plans to attend law school and pursue a career as an attorney.

Carly Hickerson is from Texarkana, Texas, and graduated from Texas High School in 2024. She is a rising junior at the University of Arkansas studying political science and international relations. On campus, Carly serves as a cross-cultural mentor and is an active member of Delta Delta Delta. She plans to attend law school following graduation.

Boozman, Cotton Resolution Honoring Fulbright Program’s 80th Anniversary Passes Senate

Tue, 216 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—The U.S. Senate has passed a bipartisan resolution led by Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) recognizing eight decades since the establishment of the Fulbright Program by former U.S. Senator for Arkansas James William Fulbright on August 1, 1946.

The cultural exchange initiative, which promotes U.S. higher education abroad and remains a valuable diplomatic tool, operates in more than 160 countries. Its alumni include 63 Nobel Prize laureates, 94 recipients of the Pulitzer Prize, 44 heads of state, 17 Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients, 11 members of the United States Congress, a former Secretary-General of the United Nations, a former Secretary-General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and an Astronaut who set foot on the moon.

“Senator Fulbright believed that greater understanding between people and nations could help create a more peaceful world. Whether we are welcoming students to America or sending our nation’s brightest abroad, this strong tradition reflects the very best of Senator Fulbright’s vision of enriching lives and showing the world the best of the United States. I am proud to lead this resolution acknowledging this significant milestone and celebrating its effectiveness in fostering good will that ultimately serves our national security interests,” Boozman said.

“For eighty years, the Fulbright Program has shown that some of America's strongest partnerships begin when people come together across cultures in pursuit of knowledge,” said Booker. “Fulbright has sparked discoveries, forged lifelong friendships, and prepared generations of leaders with the empathy to see the world through another's eyes. This resolution honors the profound impact of the Fulbright Program and its enduring legacy of strengthening American leadership through education, service, and the belief that our common humanity is greater than the borders that divide us.”

“Eighty years ago, Senator William Fulbright of Arkansas, began the Fulbright Scholars program. Throughout the years, this program has created thousands of scholarship opportunities for Americans to travel abroad and return with knowledge to benefit our country,” Cotton said.

“For decades, the Fulbright Program has helped hundreds of thousands of American scholars build lasting relationships, advance groundbreaking research and strengthen ties between the United States and countries around the world,” said Shaheen. “As we celebrate the Fulbright Program’s 80th anniversary, this bipartisan resolution underscores our commitment to one of our nation’s most effective diplomatic tools, strengthening American leadership, promoting mutual understanding and helping to build a more peaceful and secure world.”

The Fulbright Program is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the Department of State.

Boozman and Booker co-founded the Congressional International Exchange Caucus earlier this year along with Congressman Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) and Congressman Ami Bera (D-CA).

“For eighty years, Fulbright has shown the world what American leadership looks like at its best — not only in what we accomplish at home, but in the relationships we build around the world. Generations of Fulbright participants from every corner of the United States have advanced scientific discovery, strengthened our national security, expanded economic opportunity, and forged trusted partnerships rooted in mutual respect and shared purpose. As we mark this historic anniversary, we honor the enduring bipartisan vision that has made Fulbright the world’s premier international exchange program and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that its extraordinary legacy continues to serve the United States and our global partners for generations to come,” Institute of International Education President & CEO Jason Czyz.

“For 80 years, the Fulbright Program has created life-changing opportunities for students while strengthening relationships between the United States and people around the world. Its commitment to education, cultural exchange and international understanding remains vitally important today. We are grateful to Senators Boozman, Cotton, Booker and Shaheen for recognizing this historic milestone and the program’s enduring impact,” University of Arkansas Chancellor Charles Robinson.

Click here to read the text of the resolution.

Strengthening Partnerships Through Educational Exchange

Mon, 215 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

Arkansas has a proud history of producing leaders whose ideas have shaped our nation and influenced generations beyond our borders. One of the most notable examples is Senator J. William Fulbright, whose vision for educational exchange resulted in a program that has spent eight decades building connections, expanding opportunities and strengthening relationships among people and nations.

As we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Program, it is fitting to reflect on the lasting impact of this Arkansas native’s commitment to promoting greater understanding through education.

Senator Fulbright believed lasting peace depends on people learning from one another. His vision has stood the test of time. What began in 1946 as a bold idea has grown into one of the world’s most respected international exchange programs, operating in more than 160 countries and creating opportunities for students, educators, researchers and professionals to study, teach and collaborate internationally.

The program’s impact is remarkable. More than 450,000 individuals from the United States and around the world have participated in Fulbright exchanges. Its alumni include leaders in science, government, education and the arts, including Nobel Prize winners, Pulitzer Prize recipients, heads of state and other individuals who have gone on to make meaningful contributions in their communities and professions.

In light of that incredible impact, I am pleased to be leading a Senate resolution recognizing the Fulbright Program’s 80th anniversary and honoring its extraordinary legacy. Taking the opportunity to recognize a program with such deep Arkansas roots that has strengthened our nation and helped build lasting partnerships around the world is important.

Educational exchanges like the Fulbright Program do more than enrich academic experiences. They expose participants to different cultures, encourage the exchange of ideas and build relationships that often last a lifetime. Those personal connections strengthen diplomatic ties, create platforms for cooperation and help advance our nation’s interests abroad.

I have seen the program's impact firsthand throughout the time I have been blessed to represent our state.

In nearly every country I visit, I meet government officials, business leaders or educators who are Fulbright alumni or have a close connection to the program. They speak proudly about their experiences, and these relationships demonstrate the power of bringing people together through education and common purposes.

The Fulbright Program has long enjoyed bipartisan support because its value extends well beyond the classroom. It serves as an important tool of American diplomacy by promoting good will, expanding educational opportunities and strengthening alliances and partnerships around the world. I have supported the Fulbright Program under administrations of both parties because its mission reflects American values of innovation, service and engagement.

As we look to the future, we should continue investing in initiatives that promote educational exchange, foster greater cultural understanding and help address global challenges. Programs like Fulbright prepare future leaders, encourage cooperation and reinforce the values that have made America the trusted partner of so many nations.

Arkansas is proud to be the home of Senator Fulbright and the remarkable influence he exerted to shape global events. As we celebrate the program's 80th anniversary, we honor his vision and the generations of students, educators, researchers and professionals who have carried it forward, proving the enduring power of education to break down cultural barriers, bridge divides and build a better future.

Boozman, Durbin, Cramer Introduce New Legislation to Advance Judicial Independence and Security

Fri, 212 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Lawmakers’ bill would provide the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts with the opportunity for more responsive and effective facility management...

Boozman, Booker, Cotton, Shaheen Lead Resolution Honoring Fulbright Program’s 80th Anniversary

Fri, 212 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) led introduction of a Senate resolution recognizing eight decades since the establishment of the Fulbright Program by former U.S. Senator for Arkansas James William Fulbright on August 1, 1946.

The Fulbright Program is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the Department of State.

Boozman and Booker co-founded the Congressional International Exchange Caucus earlier this year along with Congressman Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) and Congressman Ami Bera (D-CA).

Click here to read the text of the resolution.

Gray Media: Senators work to advance long-delayed farm bill

Stetson Miller — Thu, 211 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON (Gray DC)—Senators in Washington are now trying to advance a major food and agriculture policy package known as the farm bill after years of delays.

The bill, that establishes national farming and nutrition polices, could soon reach its closest point to passage since 2018, after Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) said it could be marked up before the congressional recess begins on Aug. 7.

“Congress needs to step up and get this done,” said Sen. Boozman. “...They’ve worked really hard and they’re very supportive of the farm community. And I think they’ll be very supportive of the farm bill that we release and get voted on hopefully in the next week or two.”

The House passed a farm bill for the first time since 2018 on April 30. The breakthrough came after partisan disagreements led lawmakers to forgo the typical five year update in 2023 and three extensions of the last version.

“[We] really weren’t able to come up with the funding that we needed, to significantly change the programs within the old farm bill, which we desperately need to do because of inflation, the pandemic, all of those things,” said Boozman.

Now, the Senate committee is working through the bill but contentions over food stamp program changes, passed in the One Big Beautiful Bill, have made progress difficult.

“The biggest thing is the nutrition program. So Democrats and Republicans want to reduce error rates in those programs,” said Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), the ranking member on the committee. “What the Republicans did is try to create incentives to reduce error rates, but they did it in a way that’s going to force over a bunch of cuts on families, when grocery prices are high, and on state budgets.”

Democrats on the committee have said that the bill needs to include a delay for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cost shifts that require states to pay for some of the program, depending on their rate of inaccurate payments, known as “error rates.”

The change aims to incentivize states to reduce error rates but Klobuchar said the way it was set up is posing issues for states across the country.

“We said there are some problems with this, including rewarding states with the highest error rates in order to help Senator Murkowski vote for the bill because of Alaska,” she said. “...So right now you have governors, red and blue states, many Republican governors saying, ‘Wait a minute, we don’t even have the actual data right now to make these changes.’ So why don’t give us a year or two on this front?”

Boozman said he shares the concern and is working to address it with Klobuchar.

Another hurdle is Senator Mitch McConnell’s (R-KY) absence from the committee, which leaves it with 11 Republicans and 11 Democrats. The even split means lawmakers have to craft a bipartisan bill for it to advance.

“With Senator McConnell’s absence, it’s a challenge because we only have a one vote majority. So but it’s not something that we can’t overcome. So we’re working with Senator Klobuchar. I think we’ll be able to overcome that,” Boozman said.

Senate Republicans revealed their “Farm Bill 2.0″ proposal last month, after passing several farm bill polices in last year’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”

“A year ago in reconciliation, using that vehicle, we were able to essentially write about 85% of the farm bill and created a situation where we invested an additional $68 billion into the farm bill, which is unheard of,” said Boozman.

The proposal for the new bill includes 100 bipartisan measures that committee members worked to write.

“Every member of the committee has bipartisan bills that they’ve worked on together. It’s tended to be a very bipartisan committee. And I want to keep it that way,” said Klobuchar.

She added that if the SNAP concerns are resolved, the bill could be closer to making it out of committee.

“I think if we can resolve that, the rest of it will fall in place. And it’s really important for national security and for really the people of this country to get a farm bill done.”

Click here to read the story on Local News Live's website.

Senators Introduce Bipartisan Provider Reimbursement Stability Act to Ensure Long-Term Access to Medical Care

Thu, 211 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Peter Welch (D-VT), Roger Marshall M.D. (R-KS), Angus King (I-ME), Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced the Provider Reimbursement Stability Act to modernize Medicare’s Physician Fee Schedule (MFPS). The bipartisan, comprehensive legislation would create greater predictability in Medicare physician payments, preserve patient access to care and better reflect the actual cost of delivering medical services.

According to the American Medical Association (AMA), when adjusted for inflation, Medicare reimbursement for physician services has declined 33 percent since 2001. This reduction, attributed to the Medicare budget neutrality threshold last updated in 1992 and other factors, has failed to keep pace with the rising cost of care. The legislation reforms key structural components of the MPFS, helping preserve physicians’ ability to care for Medicare patients.

“Providers should not face unpredictable payment cuts that make it more difficult to care for patients. Modernizing Medicare reimbursement is an important step toward ensuring long-term financial stability for our health care providers and preserving access to quality care. Our bill is a bipartisan solution that will more accurately reflect the costs of delivering quality care, which ultimately benefits patients in Arkansas and across our country,” said Boozman.

“Outdated policies are creating instability for doctors and threatening access to care for Medicare patients in Vermont and across the country. Our commonsense, bipartisan bill will help ensure physicians can continue providing vital care to our communities,” said Welch.

“For 25 years, I cared for patients in western Kansas. Like many, I didn’t go into medicine to worry about Washington’s payment formulas – I went into medicine to take care of people,” said Marshall. “When doctors can’t make the numbers work, patients lose access to care. This legislation is a commonsense step toward stabilizing physician reimbursement so doctors can spend more time caring for patients and less time worrying about whether they can afford to stay in practice.”

“Accessible, reliable health care is essential for seniors across Maine, particularly in our rural communities where providers are already stretched thin,” said King. “The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act would help ensure that Medicare providers are fairly reimbursed so they can continue delivering the full range of care that Maine seniors depend on for their healthcare needs. I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting this commonsense bipartisan legislation to strengthen access to quality care for older Americans.”

“More than two million Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina depend on timely access to quality care,” said Tillis. “Year after year, Medicare reimbursement cuts have made it harder for physicians to care for patients. This bipartisan legislation makes long overdue reforms to outdated policies to ensure physicians are fairly reimbursed and seniors continue to have access to the care they deserve.”

“It’s critical we do all we can to ensure that Granite Staters who rely on Medicare for health insurance have access to the quality, affordable care they need,” said Shaheen. “This bipartisan bill would make sure physicians are fairly compensated and guarantee adequate reimbursement for providers, which would help strengthen Medicare’s dependability for patients now and into the future.”

The Provider Reimbursement Stability Act would:

Increase the budget neutrality threshold from $20 million to $57.64 million and index it to the Medicare Economic Index (MEI) every five years, to address rising practice costs.
Revise spending estimates and budget neutrality adjustments based on utilization rates derived from claims data.
Provide updates to direct costs used to calculate practice expense relative value units (RVUs), including clinical wage rates, medical supplies and equipment, not less often than every five years.
Limit year-to-year positive or negative variances in the conversion factor to no greater than 2.5 percent.

This legislation is supported by the American Medical Association, American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, American Society for Radiation Oncology, Alliance of Specialty Medicine, American College of Rheumatology, American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, College of American Pathologists, Society of Thoracic Surgeons, American College of Cardiology, American Osteopathic Association, National Organization of Rheumatology Management, American Academy of Dermatology Association, National Infusion Center Association, Obesity Medicine Association, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Psychological Association Services, American College of Surgeons, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Emergency Department Practice Management Association, American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Society of Breast Surgeons, American Academy of Ophthalmology, Society for Vascular Surgery, American Medical Group Association, American Psychiatric Association, American College of Radiology, American Society of Echocardiography, American Optometric Association, American College of Physicians, American Gastroenterological Association, American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, American College of Emergency Physicians, Medical Group Management Association, American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, American Academy of Neurology, American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, and American Urological Association.

Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-NC), and a bipartisan group of lawmakers.

Click here to view a section-by-section summary.

Click here to view text of the bill.

Protecting The Natural State While Building Our Future

Mon, 208 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Arkansans understand that conserving our natural resources and growing our economy are not competing interests. Arkansas is blessed with pristine rivers, forests, farmland, lakes and abundant wildlife. These resources not only make us The Natural State, they also support the agricultural, manufacturing and tourism industries that strengthen our economy and way of life.

For generations, Arkansans have recognized that protecting these resources goes hand in hand with supporting the enterprises and communities that depend on them. To harness them, our communities need modern roads, reliable water utilities and dependable energy infrastructure.

Responsible stewardship means striving for preservation while creating opportunities for future growth. Protecting the environment and building a stronger economy should never be at odds, and I am encouraged that leaders at every level of government are working to restore this balanced approach.

The real challenge is not whether we do this, but how.

Environmental reviews and permitting serve an important purpose, but the process has become increasingly difficult to navigate. Businesses, farmers, local governments and even conservation organizations all rely on federal permits, but overlapping reviews, shifting requirements and years of uncertainty delay progress and increase costs.

This uncertainty has real consequences in Arkansas. When projects stall, taxpayers ultimately pay more and communities meet frustration instead of benefits.

Fortunately, the Trump administration has made meaningful progress on permitting reform.

Already, it has improved coordination among agencies, reduced duplicative processes and enabled timely decision-making. Earlier this year, Standard Lithium’s South West Arkansas Project completed all federal permitting through the FAST-41 Program. That benchmark demonstrates that agencies can coordinate efficiently, maintain rigorous environmental standards and provide predictability for businesses.

Another important step toward restoring common sense came with the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA, which clarified the scope of federal jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act. It has freed farmers, businesses, local governments and regulators from paralysis around what activities would trigger federal permitting requirements.

We have also seen encouraging momentum within the Army Corps of Engineers. Earlier this year, Assistant Secretary Telle launched the “Building Infrastructure, Not Paperwork” initiative to refocus the agency on its core mission of delivering water resources projects.

Now, it is emphasizing better coordination, shorter timelines and a renewed focus on projects with the greatest impact.

In Arkansas, the Corps plays a vital role in maintaining the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System and improving our waterways and recreation sites. That means enhanced collaboration on undertakings within Corps jurisdiction, rooted in partnership rather than barriers and delays.

Congress has an important role to play as well.

As a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, I have supported efforts to establish reasonable timelines for environmental reviews, improve coordination among federal agencies and concentrate resources on the projects with the greatest environmental impacts. Congressman Westerman’s SPEED Act and other reform measures have already passed the House of Representatives with bipartisan support and now the Senate has the opportunity to build on that momentum and deliver meaningful reforms.

As we continue this work, federal policies must serve the people and communities they are intended to help. Arkansans should not have to choose between protecting our natural resources and investing in the infrastructure and industries that support our communities. With thoughtful reforms, strong environmental standards and a commonsense approach, we can uphold our responsibility as stewards of The Natural State while ensuring Arkansas’s economy and communities thrive for generations to come.

Boozman Presses VA on Failure to Establish Oncology Program Partnership with UAMS

Thu, 204 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman, a senior member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, pushed U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Oncology Program Executive Director Dr. Michael Kelley to explain its failure to expand the Precision Oncology Program for Cancer of the Prostate (POPCaP) in contrast to congressional intent. The department was required to extend the prostate cancer initiative, including fostering a new partnership with the Little Rock VA and University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), which has not occurred.

At a VA Committee hearing, Boozman highlighted Chairman Jerry Moran’s (R-KS) introduction of the Precision Oncology Program for Cancer of the Prostate Authorization Act that would designate the Little Rock VA Medical Center, among others, as a Center of Excellence for the POPCaP program.

“Arkansas has built a strong partnership between the Little Rock VA and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and I believe it is well positioned to become a national leader in precision oncology research and care for veterans,” Boozman said. “Congress provided $5 million to expand the Precision Oncology Program for Cancer of the Prostate to additional VA medical centers and increased academic cancer center partnerships. It is my understanding that VA instead used those funds to establish a broader precision oncology research program covering multiple cancers.”

Expanding access to clinical oncology trials, particularly to areas that currently lack those opportunities, is critical. Boozman worked to secure funding to facilitate a new partnership between UAMS and the VA in the Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations package.

To date, that partnership has not been realized. Instead, the VA utilized the allocated funding to create a broad precision oncology cancer research program without expanding POPCaP sites. The senator has since included language in subsequent appropriations legislation directing the department to submit a report within 30 days after enactment on its plan to maintain the 21 current POPCaP sites and expand to additional locations.

Boozman Questions Rollins and Hegseth on Farm Relief, National Security Funding Proposal

Wed, 203 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, questioned USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on the administration's push to secure additional farm aid and defense funding through a supplemental budget request.

Boozman Among EPW Committee Members Championing Bipartisan Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act

Wed, 203 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—Today, six members of the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, Senators John Boozman (R-AR), John Curtis (R-UT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ), introduced the bipartisan Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act (WEPA) of 2026.

WEPA 2026 would make it easier for states and communities to use prescribed fires to prevent wildfire emissions, protect ecosystems and wildlife habitats, and make American forests and communities safer, healthier, and cleaner. The bill also promotes the efficient use of state air quality resources and provides certainty that states will not be penalized for taking action to prevent wildfires.

“In light of the devastating wildfires we now see far too often, Congress should do everything it can to encourage better forest management practices. Prescribed burns are an important way to prevent large-scale fires that threaten homes and property while damaging natural resources. I am proud to join colleagues on both sides of the aisle on this legislation to ensure controlled burns do not generate an adverse Clean Air Act impact or penalize states taking proactive mitigation steps,” said Boozman.

“If we're serious about reducing the size and severity of wildfires, we need to stop punishing local authorities for doing the right thing to improve forest health and remove hazardous fuels. By removing unnecessary regulatory burdens on prescribed burns, our legislation helps ensure states and localities can take proactive measures to help keep our forests and communities safe from the threat of wildfires,” said Curtis.

“When the 2020 Labor Day fires swept across Oregon, I drove over 600 miles and never once escaped the thick, dark smoke that blanketed our state. As Oregonians face yet another record-breaking fire season this year, we need to tackle this crisis at every stage. Our bipartisan bill supports more prescribed fire on the landscape—an essential forest management activity—while giving our communities the resources to plan and prepare for smoke events. Climate chaos is fueling more severe wildfires, and I’ll keep fighting to ensure Oregon and communities nationwide have the tools they need to protect public health and save lives,” said Merkley.

“I am very proud to cosponsor this legislation, which will help reduce the impact of wildfires on our land, our air, and our people. Wildfires have ravaged many parts of our country over the past several years, and change is necessary to ensure that states can successfully prevent the most dangerous and damaging fires. States should have the right to use known prevention practices, including prescribed fires, to mitigate potential catastrophes and care for their land. This bill gives states another tool in their toolbox, and will reduce barriers to successfully managing wildfires and protecting communities nationwide,” said Capito.

"We know prescribed burns help prevent catastrophic wildfires and save lives. This bipartisan bill cuts red tape so California and the whole country can make greater use of this proven, cost-effective tool to protect communities before the next major wildfire. It's a commonsense step that prioritizes prevention instead of waiting to respond after disaster strikes," said Padilla.

“Arizona knows the damage catastrophic wildfires can do to our communities and forests. Prescribed burns are one of the best ways to reduce that risk before a fire gets out of control, and states shouldn't be penalized for taking action. This bipartisan effort will help prevent larger, more destructive wildfires, keep our forests healthier, and better protect families from the smoke and pollution they leave behind,” said Kelly.

The Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act would:

Make it easier for states and communities to use prescribed fire to prevent wildfire emissions;
Protect ecosystems and wildlife habitat;
Provide certainty that states won’t be penalized for taking action to prevent wildfires;
Promote the efficient use of state air quality resources; and
Make our forests and communities safer, healthier, and cleaner.

Bill text is available here.

A one-page overview of the legislation is available here.

Boozman, Cotton Join Blumenthal and Darline Graham to Introduce Updated Russian Oil Sanctions Bill

Mon, 201 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Legislation has 60+ Cosponsors and Honors Late Sen. Lindsey Graham’s Legacy...

One Year Later: Working Families Tax Cuts

Mon, 201 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Just over a year ago, Congress passed landmark legislation focused on making Arkansas and America stronger, safer and more prosperous.

Now known as the Working Families Tax Cuts, the package’s biggest achievement was to stop a looming $4 trillion tax increase on hardworking men and women in our state and across the country. At a time when inflation is still too high, adding even more of a burden on Arkansans’ budgets would be disastrous.

Thankfully, we succeeded in preventing the federal government from taking an even bigger bite out of their paychecks or returns.

Our second priority was to help Americans keep even more of their hard-earned money in their pockets. That is why we included provisions such as no tax on overtime or tips, a bonus deduction for seniors on Social Security, permanently enhanced child tax credit and higher standard deduction — by double.

In fact, 97 percent of Americans who filed taxes this year got a tax cut. An analysis by the Department of the Treasury of this past tax filing season confirmed the Working Families Tax Cuts delivered the largest share of tax relief directly to millions of low- and middle- income Americans. Of the historic refunds issued this tax season, 70 percent went to those earning less than $100,000 per year, averaging over $3,400. This was an 11 percent increase from last year.

Support for blue collar Americans was a defining feature of the bill, along with the pro-growth policies we advanced to help small businesses succeed and expand.

I am especially proud to have secured a generational investment for farmers, ranchers and rural communities by modernizing the farm safety net, which they will begin to see this fall, while raising the death tax threshold so they can have peace of mind about passing down the family farm to their children and grandchildren. We also managed to improve the disaster assistance programs they count on.

And there were even more benefits for working families that are still coming into focus as the administration implements this signature law.

One example is the Trump Accounts designed to give the youngest Americans long-term financial security. The program gives them and their families a head start in pursuing financial security through a savings and investment account that is tax-advantaged and can receive contributions from family members, employers and others.

Additionally, the law expanded access to the Pell Grant program for students pursuing the skilled trades while also allowing 529 savings to be used for trade certifications and even tools — critical financial assistance that will also benefit our economy by preparing more workers to fill in-demand jobs and build rewarding careers.

That and more is now reality thanks to the passage of this law.

It was an honor to fight for these policies and secure their enactment. Every Arkansan I interact with agrees that things still cost too much, but these economic reforms are already helping create bigger paychecks while Congress and the Trump administration pursue additional solutions to help make life more affordable.

At the same time, we have worked tirelessly to secure the border, strengthen our military and curb violent crime. Taken together, these are significant achievements in the 12 months since the Working Families Tax Cuts became the law of the land.

My colleagues and I will continue to prioritize all Americans’ prosperity and safety as this Congress proceeds.

Boozman’s Chief of Staff Receives 2026 Democracy Award for Leadership, Service to Arkansas and Congress

Fri, 198 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

U.S. Senator John Boozman, his Chief of Staff Toni-Marie Higgins and Cathy Boozman.

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman’s (R-AR) Chief of Staff, Toni-Marie Higgins, was named a 2026 Democracy Award recipient by the Congressional Management Foundation (CMF) for Chief of Staff of the Year.

The award honors Higgins’ role in building a strong team culture and a lasting standard of service within Boozman’s office on behalf of the people of Arkansas. The Chief of Staff of the Year recipient is selected by fellow Chiefs of Staff on Capitol Hill. The award recognizes tenured Chiefs who demonstrate exceptional leadership, strategic vision, staff development and service to the institution of Congress.

“Toni-Marie’s impact on my office’s work to represent and support Arkansans has been immeasurable and invaluable. She has served as a dedicated member of my staff since 2007 and we are inspired by her leadership, mentorship, tireless work ethic and effective advocacy. Year after year, she builds even stronger ties within our state while also making critical contributions to Congress, and the Senate community in particular. My entire team and I are very proud of Toni-Marie and agree she is richly deserving of this recognition,” Boozman said.

“Chiefs of Staff play a pivotal role in translating a Member’s vision into an effective, high-performing office. What distinguished Toni-Marie Higgins was her ability to build something lasting: a strong team culture, effective management practices, and a commitment to excellence that extends beyond any single Congress. That kind of leadership strengthens not only an office, but the institution as a whole,” said CMF’s CEO Jen Daulby.

The Congressional Management Foundation is the premier bipartisan foundation dedicated to strengthening the first branch of government. The Democracy Awards are CMF’s signature program recognizing the best in congressional non-legislative achievements.

Boozman’s office, comprising his entire staff on Capitol Hill and in Arkansas, received CMF’s Democracy Award for Constituent Service in 2018. The honor acknowledged the comprehensive manner with which it engages and supports constituents, in keeping with the senator’s unofficial motto to “use the power of the office for good.”

To learn more about CMF’s Democracy Awards, click here. To learn how the senator’s office can serve you, click here.

Boozman, Gillibrand Introduce Bipartisan More Paid Leave for More Americans Act

Thu, 197 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced the More Paid Leave for More Americans Act, legislation to expand access to paid leave through an innovative state-driven, public-private partnership model while creating a national framework that empowers employers to administer this benefit efficiently across state lines.

The bill would authorize a three-year pilot program through the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to help states, in partnership with private employers, offer paid family, caregiving or medical leave. It would also establish the Interstate Paid Leave Action Network (I-PLAN) –– a working group of participating states to foster collaboration, reduce compliance burdens and create a standardized system for processing interstate claims.

“As a former business owner, father of three daughters and Member of Congress, I have learned just how much there is to gain from expanding paid leave resources for working families. Our bipartisan, bicameral approach offers a flexible way for more states and employers to help fewer Americans face the dilemma between career progression and financial security or meeting theirs or a loved one’s needs. I am optimistic this model will spur wider adoption across the country and appreciated collaborating with my colleagues alongside passionate advocates to achieve meaningful progress that will support families and our economy,” said Boozman.

“No American should have to choose between earning a paycheck and caring for a new baby, a sick parent, or their own health,” said Gillibrand. “The More Paid Leave for More Americans Act is a commonsense, bipartisan step toward solving a challenge facing millions of hardworking families. By empowering states to create robust paid parental, caregiving, and medical leave programs, this bill would help protect Americans’ financial security and allow them the flexibility to deal with life’s emergencies without sacrificing their income. I will fight to pass this bill through Congress and will continue working until every American has guaranteed access to paid family and medical leave.”

Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-OK) and Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA).

“After years of hard work and dedication, I am thrilled that my colleagues in the Senate have introduced companion legislation to my bipartisan bill, the More Paid Leave for More Americans Act. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan House Paid Family Leave Working Group alongside Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, I have been proud to work across the aisle to advance practical solutions that support both families and businesses. As a mother myself, I understand the challenges parents face and the importance of ensuring they do not have to choose between caring for a newborn and earning a paycheck. We must continue this momentum and advance policies that address the real needs of America’s families,” Bice said.

“Four years ago, when I founded the House Bipartisan Paid Leave Working Group with Rep. Bice, I did so with a simple goal: to find durable, bipartisan policy solutions that help American workers, businesses, and families gain access to paid family and medical leave. Today, I am proud that our bill, the More Paid Leave for More Americans Act, now has a Senate companion, and I applaud Senators Boozman and Gillibrand for their leadership and partnership in advancing this effort. For more than three decades, roughly three in four American workers have lacked access to paid leave. We have a real opportunity to help states build programs that change that reality. Today, we've charted a clear bipartisan, bicameral path forward, and I urge House and Senate leadership to seize this opportunity and finally deliver paid leave for more American families,” Houlahan said.

Roughly one-quarter of American workers currently have access to employer-provided paid family leave benefits. Disparities among state paid leave policies also create compliance challenges for employers operating in multiple states. Currently, 14 states and the District of Columbia have enacted mandatory paid leave laws.

This bipartisan legislation addresses a significant coverage gap by encouraging states and private companies to adopt or expand scalable, sustainable access to paid leave benefits.

Under the More Paid Leave for More Americans Act, eligible states would be awarded grants to implement their paid leave program and participate in I-PLAN. The programs must provide at least six weeks of paid leave and replace at least 67 percent of wages while capping the benefit at 150 percent of the state’s average weekly wage rate. The bill instructs DOL to prioritize states that do not currently have an established paid leave program, emphasize paid family leave, participate in I-PLAN and have a lower percentage of the working population with access to paid leave benefits.

The bill is endorsed by Engage: Promoting Women’s Economic Security, AARP, Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action, Third Way, Chamber of Mothers and Patriot Voices.

“Engage celebrates the work of Senator John Boozman and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand with the introduction of the Senate companion of the More Paid Leave for More Americans Act. The legislation incentivizes the public and private sectors to work together responsibly and address the unique challenges facing caregivers. This is meaningful bipartisan governing at its best,” said Engage Founder Rachel Pearson.

“The introduction of the More Paid Leave for More Americans Act in the Senate marks a pivotal moment for working families across America. This bill cuts through the confusing patchwork of state-paid family and medical leave laws, making it easier for workers to access these benefits when they need them most. Too many Americans lack access to paid leave. While more than 70 percent of young children live in households where both parents work, only 27 percent of employers offer paid leave benefits. This bill helps more families access this necessary support, which is why BPC Action applauds Sens. John Boozman (R-AR) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) for their leadership. We also commend the House and Senate Bipartisan Paid Family Leave Working Groups for the collaboration that made this milestone possible,” said BPC Action President Michele Stockwell.

“We appreciate that your legislation recognizes and supports paid leave for life’s major events, including caring for a loved one. America is at a watershed moment, with 10,000 Americans turning 65 a day, a workforce struggling to keep pace with demand, and an increasing number of family members taking care of loved ones as they age. Seventy percent of working-age caregivers, ages 18 to 64, work while also caregiving. Your legislation will help support both a strong economy and family well-being by better equipping workers with the tools they need to meet their responsibilities at home and at work,” said AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond.

Click here to view text of the bill.

Click here for a section-by-section summary.

Click here for a one-pager.