Charles E. Schumer

AS REPUBLICANS PUSH FOR $1 BILLION IN TAXPAYER DOLLARS FOR TRUMP’S GILDED BALLROOM, SCHUMER REVEALS HOW THAT FUNDING COULD INSTEAD BE USED TO LOWER COSTS FOR NEW YORK FAMILIES | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York

Position: Senator Schumer opposes federal funding for a proposed Trump ballroom project, arguing that the $1 billion in taxpayer dollars should instead be redirected toward cost-of-living assistance for New York families, including grocery subsidies, utility bill relief, and public services.

Trump Promised “Not One Penny” Of Federal Money Would Be Used For His Ballroom — Now Republicans Want Taxpayers To Spend $1 Billion On Trump’s Vanity Project While NY Families Struggle To Afford The Basics Schumer To NY Republicans: Why Are You Choosing Trump’s Chandelier Over New Yorkers’ Childcare, Trump’s Ego Over Their Electric Bills, And Trump’s Palace Over The People’s Priorities? Schumer: New Yorkers Don’t Want This Ballroom Blitz – They Want Lower Costs As Republicans rush to try to pass $1 billion in taxpayer dollars to help pay for Trump’s new gilded ballroom, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today released the following report outlining how that funding could instead be used to help New Yorkers lower costs and help working families. “New Yorkers want lower costs, not a gold-plated ballroom. Inflation is skyrocketing because of Donald Trump’s costly tariffs, his disastrous war with Iran, and his failed economic agenda, but Republicans are focused on funding a ballroom. This staggering waste of taxpayer dollars does nothing to help Americans afford groceries, gas prices, healthcare, housing, or their electricity bills,” said Senator Schumer. “Despite Trump insisting that the ballroom would be completely privately funded, the truth is now coming out. At a time when Americans are struggling to put food on the table, Republicans say, ‘let them eat cake’ and demand American taxpayers build Trump a palace while they’re at it. NY Republicans need to answer why their priority is building a ballroom instead of helping working families.” Despite Trump previously saying that “Not one penny is being used from the federal government,” Republicans are trying to pass a bill that would allocate $1 billion in federal funding to pay for Trump’s 90,000-square-foot ballroom, which he has destroyed the White House’s East Wing to build. Schumer said it is backwards to charge American taxpayers $1 billion to build Trump’s gilded ballroom, while including zero dollars to help Americans struggling with rising costs. Schumer called on New York House Republicans to stand up to this bill that would charge New York taxpayers for Trump’s new ballroom instead of lowering costs. So what could New Yorkers get with this $1 billion in funding instead of putting it towards Trump’s ballroom? Lowering Costs for Groceries and Electric Bills: Boosting Main Streets and Helping Farmers: Boosting Funding for Public Servants:

AS SOUTHERN TIER SEES RECORD HIGH GROCERY COSTS, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES LANDMARK LEGISLATION TO BREAK UP THE MEATPACKING MONOPOLIES, HELP FARMERS, AND DRIVE DOWN COST OF MEAT FOR FAMILIES | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York

Position: Senator Schumer advocates for legislation to break up dominant meatpacking corporations, increase competition in the meat market, and reduce grocery costs for consumers while improving profitability for farmers.

Schumer Says Four Corporate Giants Dominate Meat Market, Squeezing Farmers And Ranchers Who Keep Just 16 Cents Of Every Dollar Spent On Food And Rigging The System Against Southern Tier Families New Schumer Bill Will Break Up Big Monopolies In Meat Packing That Lead To Higher Prices For Consumers & Hurt Farmers And Restore Real Competition To Help Farmers And Smaller Meat Producers While Lowering Prices Schumer: New Bill Will Bring Down Costs For Families At The Grocery Store As Southern Tier families face the rising cost of groceries, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today stood with Southern Tier farmers and families at Chemung County Cornell Cooperative Extension to introduce the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act. The Senator’s new landmark legislation would break up the big meat monopolies, boost farmers Upstate, and lower grocery costs for families. “The meatpacking monopoly is driving up costs for New Yorkers in the Southern Tier at the grocery store and rigging the game against local farmers. Corporate giants dominate the meat market and set prices sky-high for families, all while squeezing profits from farmers by eliminating competition, and it needs to end,” said Senator Schumer. “That’s why I’m introducing legislation – the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act – to break up the monopoly and lower costs. This bill is centered around making groceries more affordable, making farmers more profitable, and putting the needs of working middle-class people ahead of the interests of powerful corporations. Local businesses are the backbone of communities; they love their customers and want prices to be affordable, and they get hurt by big corporations and suppliers rigging the game against consumers. America’s economy and our Main Streets are stronger when costs are lower, and we have true competition, and this bill will do exactly that.” According to analysis from the Urban Institute, New York’s 23th Congressional District – which covers Chemung, Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, and Tioga Counties as well as parts of Schuyler, Steuben, Erie, and Niagara Counties – has experienced an increase in the average monthly cost of groceries. In the past five years, monthly grocery prices for a family of four have increased from $870 to $1,110 each month, a whopping nearly 30% increase. Schumer explained that a major driver of high meat prices is a food system rigged in favor of corporate monopolies. Four companies, Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill, and National Beef, control 85% of the beef market, 67% of the pork market, and 60% of the chicken market. Schumer’s Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act is a competition-driven, pro-farmer, pro-rancher, pro-worker, pro-consumer, cost-of-living bill that breaks up dominant meatpackers and uses all available tools to stop unfair pricing that drives up grocery bills for American families. The bill would force the biggest meatpackers to choose a line of business instead of dominating beef, pork, and chicken all at once, and aims to provide financial and technical assistance to farmers’ cooperatives and small businesses that seek to acquire, operate, or expand meatpacking plants or facilities, helping make more local supply chains to lower costs. In addition, to directing the FTC to go after foreign-controlled conglomerates that squeeze American producers and distort U.S. markets. "CCE Chemung is grateful for Senator Schumer's long-standing interest in agriculture and food affordability,” said Michell Podolec, Executive Director of Chemung County Cornell Cooperative Extension. “I appreciate his continued attention to supporting our farmers and maintaining strong local food systems." “I’m excited about this legislation because it will help my farm, and other local Southern Tier livestock farmers,” said Ike Mallula, Owner and Farmer at Red House Ranch. “This bill is encouraging growth in the meat packing and processing sector.” “We love serving our community, but the current agriculture landscape has made it incredibly difficult,” said Mike Sullivan Owner of Hilltop Inn in Elmira. “The cattle inventory hasn’t been this low since the 1950s, which has driven our own beef procurement costs up by over 60% in the last few years. As a restaurant, our priority is maintaining the high-quality our guests expect without making dining out a luxury they have to cut back on.” “We have struggled with profitability, as costs have increased just as quickly as we could ramp up revenue,” said Greg and Lily DeForest-Campbell, owners of 1897 Beekman House Bed and Breakfast. “High energy and fuel bills have certainly played a part, but grocery prices have had one of the most significant factors in our struggle to stay afloat. Consolidation in the grocery and meat packing industries have clearly played a strong role in these rising costs, with an accompanying decline in quality and availability here in rural New York. New Yorkers shouldn't have to work sixteen hour days, day in and day out, just to worry about keeping grocery bags full. We thank Senator Schumer for the introduction of this bill, and for his efforts to help hard-working New Yorkers stay afloat in these increasingly expensive times.”

AS WESTERN NY SEES RECORD HIGH GROCERY COSTS, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES LANDMARK LEGISLATION TO BREAK UP THE MEATPACKING MONOPOLIES, HELP FARMERS, AND DRIVE DOWN COST OF MEAT FOR FAMILIES | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York

Position: Senator Schumer advocates for legislation to break up dominant meatpacking corporations, increase competition in the meat market, and reduce grocery costs for families while improving farmer profitability.

Schumer Says Four Corporate Giants Dominate Meat Market, Squeezing Farmers And Ranchers Who Keep Just 16 Cents Of Every Dollar Spent On Food, And Rigging The System Against WNY Families New Schumer Bill Will Break Up Big Monopolies In Meat Packing That Lead To Higher Prices And Restore Real Competition To Lowering Costs Schumer: New Bill Will Bring Down Costs For Families At The Grocery Store As Western New Yorkers face some of the fastest price growth for groceries in the country, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today stood with Western New York farmers and families at the beloved Niagara Sausage Company to introduce the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act. The Senator’s new landmark legislation would break up the big meat monopolies, boost farmers Upstate, and lower grocery costs for families. “The meatpacking monopoly is driving up costs for Western New Yorkers at the grocery store and rigging the game against local farmers. Corporate giants dominate the meat market and set prices sky-high for families, all while squeezing profits from farmers by eliminating competition, and it needs to end,” said Senator Schumer. “That’s why I’m introducing legislation – the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act – to break up the monopoly and lower costs. This bill is centered around making groceries more affordable, making farmers more profitable, and putting the needs of working middle-class people ahead of the interests of powerful corporations. Local businesses like Niagara Sausage Company are the backbone of communities; they love their customers and want prices to be affordable, and they get hurt by big corporations and suppliers rigging the game against consumers. America’s economy and our Main Streets are stronger when costs are lower and we have true competition, and this bill will do exactly that.” Recent reporting shows that families in the Buffalo area are spending some of the most on groceries in the country. Families in Buffalo spend the eighth largest percentage of their income on groceries in an analysis of 100 of the largest American cities. According to analysis from the Urban Institute, New York’s 26th Congressional District, which covers parts of Erie and Niagara Counties, has experienced some of the fastest price growth for groceries in the country in the past ten years. Grocery prices have increased from $758.95 to $1,149.02 each month, a whopping more than 50% increase. Schumer explained that a major driver of high meat prices is a food system rigged in favor of corporate monopolies. Four companies, Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill, and National Beef, control 85% of the beef market, 67% of the pork market, and 60% of the chicken market. Schumer’s Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act is a competition-driven, pro-farmer, pro-rancher, pro-worker, pro-consumer, cost-of-living bill that breaks up dominant meatpackers and uses all available tools to stop unfair pricing that drives up grocery bills for American families. The bill would force the biggest meatpackers to choose a line of business instead of dominating beef, pork, and chicken all at once, and aims to provide financial and technical assistance to farmers’ cooperatives and small businesses that seek to acquire, operate, or expand meatpacking plants or facilities, helping make more local supply chains to lower costs. In addition, to directing the FTC to go after foreign-controlled conglomerates that squeeze American producers and distort U.S. markets. “We appreciate Senator Schumer’s relentless advocacy as it pertains to affordability, especially for many hard-working residents in the City of Niagara Falls who are trying to make ends meet at a time when costs for everything seemingly continues to increase with no end in sight,” said Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino. “At the same time, the agricultural sector is vital to the economic well-being of Niagara County and it’s important that the City demonstrates its support on issues that bolster and protect our rural communities from economic harm.” Niagara Sausage Company owner Mike Greenawalt said, “At Niagara Sausage Company, we live the reality behind rising grocery prices every single day—both as a small business and as members of this community. The cost of meat, spices, packaging, utilities, and transportation has increased significantly over the past few years. These aren’t abstract numbers to us—they directly impact how we operate and what we’re able to offer our customers. For our customers, higher grocery prices are not a “hoax.” They’re a real and daily concern. We see it in conversations at the counter, in families making tougher choices, and in our own efforts to keep prices as fair and accessible as possible without compromising quality. As a small, local shop, we don’t have the buying power of large corporate chains. Every increase from suppliers forces difficult decisions. We’ve worked hard to absorb as much of these costs as we can, because we know our customers depend on us for quality products at honest prices. We believe it’s important to acknowledge what people are experiencing. Food affordability matters. Supporting local businesses matters. And having honest conversations about the challenges facing both consumers and small businesses matters. We remain committed to serving our community with transparency, quality, and integrity—and we thank our customers for continuing to support local.” “We have known for years that the number and capacity of slaughter facilities has been a significant bottleneck to the emerging livestock businesses across New York. It’s incredibly encouraging to see Senator Schumer showcase leadership on this issue. Anything that can increase competition, streamline regulatory burdens, and improve availability will really drive growth, as well as consumer value for local protein,” said Mark Russell, President of Niagara County Farm Bureau “Every day at Community Missions, we see the impact of the food insecurity that Western New Yorkers are experiencing, “ said Robyn L. Krueger, President & CEO Community Missions. “We are grateful of Senator Schumer’s action in introducing the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act. Increasing grocery prices is a concern for all of us, and especially for everyone that our organization serves. We appreciate that Sen. Schumer is fighting for the thousands of individuals that we serve, while also working to strengthen our local agricultural economy.” “At Becken Farms in Sanborn, we have seen firsthand how consolidation in the meatpacking industry has made it harder for small, family-run farms to compete and get a fair price for our cattle,” said owner William Ziemendorf. “When only a few buyers show up at auction, competition dries up, which hurts farmers as much as it drives up prices for consumers at the grocery store. At the same time, the shortage of USDA certified processing facilities in our region makes it difficult to meet growing demand for customers who want to buy local. For that reason, we are grateful to Sen. Schumer for leading the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act. By investing in local processing capacity, encouraging competition, and helping level the playing field, this legislation has the potential to strengthen farms like Becken, support local butchers, and deliver real relief for families across Western New York.”

AS GAS PRICES SURGE IN ROCHESTER-FINGER LAKES, SCHUMER DEMANDS AN END TO TRUMP’S RECKLESS IRAN WAR, ANNOUNCES HE WILL FORCE WEEKLY VOTES TO END WAR, AND CALLS ON NY HOUSE REPUBLICANS TO STAND UP FOR FAMILIES PAYING THE PRICE FOR TRUMP’S WAR | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York

Position: Senator Schumer opposes the Trump administration's military conflict with Iran, characterizing it as a reckless war of choice that has driven up gas prices and harmed American families. He commits to forcing weekly votes on a War Powers Resolution to end the war.

As Gas Skyrockets Over $4, And American Troops Remain In Harm’s Way, NY House Republicans Refuse To Check Trump’s Reckless War of Choice – Schumer, Standing With Local Vets And Families Struggling From Gas Prices, Says Enough Is Enough And Vows To Force Votes Every Week To End The War New Report Shows American Families Have Paid $16 Billion More For Gas Since Trump Started War In Iran, Including $517+ Million In NY Alone Schumer: Iran War Has Cost NYers Half A Billion At The Gas Pump – This Must Stop Over 60 days into Trump’s reckless war with Iran, with no end in sight, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer stood outside a gas station with Rochester-Finger Lakes families, veterans, and farmers slammed by higher prices to say enough is enough and demand an end to Trump’s reckless and damaging war of choice. As the average price of gas surges to over $4 despite Trump’s promise to lower costs, Schumer vowed to force votes every single week to stop the war and called on NY House Republicans to stand up for NY families paying the price for Trump’s disastrous Iran war. “As Trump continues his reckless war of choice in Iran, families here in the Rochester-Finger Lakes are paying the price at the gas pump and beyond. Gas prices just reached new highs and families are seeing no relief in sight, but Trump and Congressional Republicans don’t seem to care about the pain American families are feeling at the pump,” said Senator Schumer. “With gas costing over $4 a gallon, inflation climbing, tariffs hammering consumers with higher prices, and mortgage rates going up, the American people cannot afford Trump’s disastrous war. Congress cannot simply sit on the sidelines while our brave servicemembers are risking their lives on the front lines and American taxpayers are shelling out tens of billions of dollars for an unnecessary foreign war. We will continue to force votes on our War Powers Resolution week after week after week to show the American people what side their representatives are on.” A new report from the Joint Economic Committee found that families in every state spent millions more on gasoline over the past month. In the first two months of the war, New Yorkers paid $517,229,794 more for gasoline compared to prices before the war. Trump originally campaigned on the promise to get the price of gasoline under $2 a gallon; instead, he has chosen to enter the U.S. into a conflict that is dramatically spiking costs, causing the average gas price in New York state to rise to more than $4 a gallon. Meanwhile, across America, cost inflation is ticking back up, and mortgage rates are rising again. This is on top of the billions the war in Iran has already cost American taxpayers. In the first six days alone, the war cost American taxpayers $11.3 billion. The Pentagon estimates the war has cost $25 billion so far. The Trump administration has also requested the largest increase in defense spending since World War II, while gutting programs that American families rely on to care for their children, put food on the table, access healthcare, and more. Schumer says American families are paying the price for a war they didn’t choose—while Republicans refuse to lift a finger to stop it. And on the front lines, American servicemembers are being asked to risk their lives without a clear objective, without transparency, and without the backing of Congress. Schumer said that is not strength or leadership, that’s a failure of responsibility. Schumer vowed he will force a vote every week on a War Powers Resolution to rein in Trump’s reckless military actions until the war ends. The senator said no president should take the country to war alone, and Congressional Republicans need to stand up to Trump and reassert Congress’s authority on matters of war. Schumer continued, “No president should ever take this country to war alone. Republicans know Trump’s handling of this war has been a disaster. They see how much the American people are hurting right now. NY House Republicans need to do their jobs, stand up to Trump and stand up for their constituents who are paying the price for his war.” According to the report, families across the country are spending 37% more at the pump than they did since February 28, an increase by 2% in the past month, with the average price to fill up one tank reaching $146.74 for the top-selling pickup truck, $59.10 for the top-selling SUV, and $52.99 for the top-selling sedan. Overall, families across America are paying $16 billion more for gasoline compared to prices before Trump’s war on Iran. Charles Hippert, Air Force Veteran from Ontario County, said, “Veterans like me took an oath of office to serve and defend the Constitution, which rests the powers to make war with Congress – the branch of government closest to the American people – because nothing is more serious than sending Americans into war. That seriousness demands careful thought and planning, otherwise lives are placed at unnecessary risk on the battlefield, and Americans at home are left to deal with the financial toll of war, including at the gas pump. I appreciate Senator Schumer’s efforts today on behalf of our troops and our community here at home.” Amanda Krenning, New York Farm Bureau Manager of County Farm Bureau Relations and Development said, “The higher fuel costs are creating a ripple effect across the farming community. It’s costing more to gas up equipment to run local farms and dairies, and it’s driving up the cost of fertilizer and thus the cost to produce our food and dairy. It’s also creating a lot of future uncertainty and volatility that makes it difficult to absorb the unexpected spike in fuel costs that’s now hitting right at the start of the growing season. We appreciate Senator Schumer’s support to help address this uncertainty.” Local resident Rachel Brill said, “I have been negatively impacted by the increase in gas prices. I live in Rochester so I can be close to my family and commute 23 miles one way, 46 round trip, each day to work in Canandaigua. I have to fill up my tank every week, and the price has gone up over $10 per tank - now more, after this last 40¢ jump. Over the course of the month, this is more than $40 - previously another week's worth of gas. Along with the increased home heating prices, and grocery prices, I am less financially stable than I expected when I took this, my first professional job in my field, which requires a Master's degree.”

SCHUMER, AFTER DELIVERING NEARLY $5 MILLION IN FED FUNDING, CUTS RIBBON ON CORTLAND COUNTY’S NEW MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY TO BOOST CARE FOR CENTRAL NY FAMILIES | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York

Schumer Delivered Major Fed $$ To Transform A Vacant Building In Downtown Cortland Into One-Stop Shop For Mental Healthcare And Long-Term Home For Mental Health Department Cortland County Mental Health Department Is Major Rural Behavioral Healthcare Provider In CNY That Treats More Than 1,000 Patients Every Year Schumer: New Mental Health Building Will Help Cortland Meet Growing Demand For Mental Health Services After launching his push to deliver federal funding four years ago, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer returned to Cortland to cut the ribbon for the new Cortland County Mental Health Department building. The building, located in downtown Cortland, was previously vacant, but the County was able to revitalize it and bring it back to productive use thanks to the funding Schumer secured. Schumer celebrated the opening of the new facility and promised to fight for federal resources to continue delivering support for rural mental health. “For families and farmers in Cortland County and Central NY, distance and lack of resources should never be a barrier to getting the mental healthcare you need. When local leaders came to me four years ago asking for help to transform a vacant building into a site of new hope, I promised I wouldn’t stop fighting until they got every penny they needed to build the mental health facility Cortland deserves. I am proud today that a promise made becomes a promise kept,” said Senator Schumer. “Today, we don’t just cut a ribbon; we open a door for so many in Cortland that should have been here long ago to ensure they do not fight mental health challenges alone. I will always fight to give New York’s rural communities the resources they need to address health care needs.” The senator has worked relentlessly over the past four years to deliver nearly $5 million in federal funding to transform this once vacant building downtown into a one-stop shop for mental health services and a long-term home for the department. Schumer explained that Cortland County’s mental health department was previously housed in a severely outdated building, which lacked modern necessities like sufficient high-speed internet access, critical disability accommodations, and the physical space to provide residents with the number of programs they need. The new facility nearly doubles the space for the county’s mental health treatment plans and made upgrades like an ADA-compliant elevator and high-speed internet access that significantly boosted the quality of both their in-person and telehealth treatment options. The new facility’s location is a significant upgrade from its previous site, situated directly along a CENTRO bus route and centrally located within the city, making it easier for patients to walk to appointments. With more than 1,000 patients treated every year, the new building contains space to continue offering three NYS Office of Mental Health (OMH) licensed outpatient treatment programs: Clinic, Adult Day Treatment, and Children’s Mental Health Rehabilitation Services. The building also allows Cortland County's Mental Health Department to expand its Children’s Mental Health Rehabilitation Services and group therapy programming. Schumer explained that as author of the American Rescue Plan to jumpstart our nation’s recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, he made sure the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds were flexible to address the long-term health and economic needs of communities. Thanks to Senator Schumer’s efforts, Cortland County received over $9 million, of which $2 million in federal funding was allocated to help improve the county’s mental health services. Schumer then in December 2022 stood in Cortland to successfully push for $2,955,000 in federal funding through the Fiscal Year 2023 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education budget bill to get this project over the finish line and give Central New York rural residents the healthcare facility they have long needed.

SCHUMER: NEW DATA SHOWS NEW YORKERS PAID AVG. OF $250 MORE FOR HOME HEATING BILLS LAST MONTH SINCE TRUMP’S RECKLESS IRAN WAR OF CHOICE BEGAN | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York

Position: Senator Schumer opposes Trump's military action in Iran, arguing it has driven up home heating oil costs for New York families by nearly 40% and is diverting resources from domestic assistance programs like LIHEAP. He calls for ending the war and protecting energy assistance funding.

New Congressional JEC Analysis Shows NY Families – Already Struggling With Rising Costs – Paid Hundreds More For Home Heating Oil Last Month, Up Nearly 40% After Trump Began His Reckless War In Iran Schumer: Cost-Beleaguered New Yorkers Are Footing The Bill For Trump’s Iran War On Their Home Heating Bills As Trump’s reckless war of choice in Iran reaches its second month, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer revealed that families in New York paid nearly $250 more for home heating oil in March 2026 compared to March 2025, with the average New York family spending $248 more, a nearly 40% increase. Meanwhile, Trump is again threatening to eliminate the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), making it harder for New Yorkers to afford to heat their homes in the winter and cool their homes in the summer. Schumer called on Trump to stop his reckless war in Iran, which is costing hardworking New York families hundreds of millions of dollars, and protect the vital program that helps families and seniors across America. “New Yorkers – already struggling under rising gas prices, inflation, and higher costs from tariffs – are stuck footing the bill for Trump’s reckless war in Iran. Trump started a war in Iran with no clear strategy, and now hardworking New York families are paying hundreds more a month on their energy bills,” said Senator Schumer. “Americans do not want Donald Trump’s war; they want lower costs and for this war to end.” A new analysis from the Joint Economic Committee analyzed changes in New York’s home heating oil prices since President Trump launched his war in Iran. According to the data, the average family in New York that uses heating oil had to spend $248 more to heat their home than they did in March 2025, a 38.2% increase. This was calculated using weekly data on home heating oil costs from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, average temperature data from the National Weather Service, and industry data from heatable.com on the number of gallons of home heating oil used in the average home at various temperatures. This increase in home heating costs is on top of the billions the war in Iran has already cost American taxpayers. In the first six days alone, the war cost American taxpayers $11.3 billion, with new estimates showing Americans’ costs for the war are expected to reach over $25 billion, and the Trump administration is asking for hundreds of billions more to fund the war, while slashing the programs American families rely on, including healthcare. Meanwhile, after firing all program staff who worked on LIHEAP last year, Trump recently again threatened to eliminate funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps families and seniors across America heat their homes in the winter and cool their homes in the summer. Last year, nearly 1.7 million families across New York State received more than $375 million in funding thanks to LIHEAP. A full county-by-county breakdown of New Yorkers receiving LIHEAP can be found HERE. “Trump promised to lower costs, but instead he’s raising costs. And he is again threatening to eliminate the program – the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program – that helps families and seniors heat their homes in the winter and cool their homes in the summer. It is as callous as it is counterproductive,” said Senator Schumer. Another recent report from the Joint Economic Committee revealed that New Yorkers have paid $265,202,780 more for gasoline compared to prices before the war. As New York families are stuck footing the bill for Trump’s war in Iran, Schumer said Trump should end this conflict that is dramatically spiking costs in New York State and across the country.

SCHUMER, RYAN DEMAND ANSWERS ON TRUMP ADMIN STALLING $28 MILLION FOR LONG-SOUGHT RHINECLIFF TRAIN STATION UPGRADES & REPAIRS – AND CALL FOR IMMEDIATE END TO UNWARRANTED FEDERAL DELAY, WHICH RISKS YEARS OF PROGRESS FOR DESPERATELY NEEDED IMPROVEMENTS | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York

Position: Schumer and Ryan demand that the Trump administration immediately release $28 million in federal funding for Rhinecliff Train Station upgrades and repairs, and call for an end to unexplained delays by the Federal Railroad Administration that threaten to derail the project.

Local Leaders Had The Rug Pulled Out From Under Them When Trump Admin Abruptly Derailed The $28M Grant For The Rhinecliff Station Project – With No Explanation – Potentially Setting Back Years of Progress To Finally Give Dutchess County The Modern Train Station It Deserves Rhinecliff Station Is One Of NY’s Busiest, But Has Fallen Into Disrepair – Schumer Fought For Years To Prioritize & Secure Funding And Now Project Is In Final Phases – But Trump Admin Unwarranted Delays Risk All Of That Progress Schumer, Ryan To FRA: End The Delays So Rhinecliff Station Project Can Get Back On Track After the Trump administration abruptly derailed $28 million in much-needed federal funding for the Rhinecliff Train Station -- with no timeline or explanation, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Congressman Pat Ryan today demanded answers and an end to federal delays from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) so the suddenly stalled project can get back on track. The representatives said this project, for one of New York’s busiest train stations, will finally give Hudson Valley commuters the modern, accessible station they have desperately needed. Schumer and Ryan explained that, with construction set to begin soon, this last-minute unexplained bureaucratic delay from the Trump administration could undermine years of progress, and that they must release this federal funding so that the sorely needed upgrades and repairs can move forward. “This is bureaucratic failure at its worst: eleventh-hour unexplained delays from the Trump administration risk years of progress to repair the Rhinecliff train station – right as this sorely needed upgrade was set to begin construction. It is unacceptable to pause a grant with no explanation and leave community leaders and commuters completely in the dark on the future of the project,” said Senator Schumer. “The Trump administration needs to stop derailing this vital project and get out of the way so it can get back on track. Congressman Ryan and I are demanding immediate answers from the FRA and an end to these senseless federal delays. We will keep fighting to make sure the Hudson Valley gets all the federal resources it was promised to make Rhinecliff Train Station the modern transportation hub commuters deserve.” “Pausing this critical project, without warning or explanation, is a slap in the face to our Hudson Valley community. The fact that DOT has provided no information or timeline is unacceptable, and risks years of further bureaucratic delays while our community is left in the dark,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “The Rhinecliff Station project is the product of years of community advocacy and bipartisan partnership at the local, state, and federal level. Senator Schumer and I are urgently demanding answers, and won’t stop fighting until we ensure that Rhinecliff Station gets the resources it needs to serve our community.” Rhinebeck Town Supervisor Elizabeth Spinzia said, “We’ve been working on this locally since 2015. I was at the station with Senator Schumer in 2020 when he delivered federal aid for ADA compliance. As the fourth busiest station in New York State, many people rely on the Rhinecliff, and it’s literally crumbling due to neglect. Many people from Amtrak, New York State, and federal officials have dedicated years to developing a cohesive plan for the restoration and repairs to the station, tracks, and platform. To have President Trump abruptly stall the project with no explanation is a mindboggling, callous betrayal.” Last week, the Trump administration told local officials that it was putting Rhinecliff Train Station’s more $28 million federal grant under review without an explanation and cancelled meetings on the project. Local leaders now feel left in the dark and worried the review will risk years of progress project right as they enter the final phases, Schumer and Ryan called on the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Administrator David Armstrong Fink to immediately provide the public and local leaders an explanation of what this review means, to stop federal delays, and release this much-needed funding for the Hudson Valley. Schumer and Ryan’s letter to FRA Administrator David Armstrong Fink can be found HERE. Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “We were disappointed to learn of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) pause of the Rhinecliff Station project. This important project would fix long standing ADA issues, improve the passenger experience at the station, and improve operations with track and signal operations. We encourage the USDOT and FRA to complete their review as quickly as possible so this project can move forward.” Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “The Rhinecliff Train Station is a vital transportation link, connecting thousands of people from the Hudson Valley to New York City and everywhere in between. It's also a critical economic engine, driving millions of dollars in economic benefits for the region. The planned improvements to this historic station have been years in the making, and we urge Washington to honor its commitment by releasing the funding designated for these desperately needed renovations. The station cannot continue in its current state, reduced to temporary structures awaiting construction, and that construction must commence. Congress specifically approved these funds for Rhinecliff Station because it is a local treasure, and we ask that they be restored immediately so this urgent work can advance without further delays." Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha: “It speaks to the utter failure of this federal administration that as it wastes billions of taxpayer dollars to bring us to the brink of an energy crisis and global destabilization, it has also paused work on a train station that undermines our constituents ability to use mass transit. The United States has the highest GDP in the world, and yet we can’t get these basic infrastructure needs taken care of, let alone build a reliable, affordable, and high-speed rail system, which is what we should already be prioritizing. The very basic function of a government is to provide the infrastructure the public needs, and our constituents deserve an answer and a plan to move forward now.” The lawmakers explained that the Rhinecliff Station is one of the busiest in New York, but for over 15 years, it has been in utter disrepair with desperately needed accessibility upgrades. The station is 90 miles from New York City and serves 26 Amtrak trains daily. In 2019, the station serviced over 200,000 passengers according to Amtrak. The existing low-level platform requires passengers to use a step stool to transition from the platform, which has created severe accessibility issues and caused many operational delays, which is on top of many other routine maintenance issues that have gotten worse over the years due to a lack of funding. In early 2020, Schumer began fighting to secure the federal dollars needed for Amtrak and New York State to finally undertake federally mandated ADA-compliant infrastructure upgrades and modernizations the station required. Schumer personally visited the Rhinecliff Station in 2020 to push for this funding to finance the construction to replace the existing 520-foot-long low-level platform at the Rhinecliff Station with a new, longer high-level platform. In addition, it will also help complete related track and signal work, including a new interlocking south of the station, and will build new access to the platform, including stairs, elevators, and a pedestrian bridge. Schumer and Ryan’s letter to FRA Administrator David Armstrong Fink can be found HERE or below: We are writing to express our serious concerns regarding the recent decision by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to undertake a review of the Rhinecliff Station High Level Platform, Vertical Circulation and Interlocking Project, and to request immediate transparency regarding the status and scope of the agency’s review of this grant award. For years, local leaders, New York state, Amtrak, and USDOT have worked together to plan for the long-needed upgrades to the Rhinecliff Station, but abruptly cancelling those meetings and announcing this review with no explanation has rightly created major concern in the community and they deserve immediate answers. This decision is deeply concerning, not only for the residents and commuters who depend on this critical transportation hub but also for the broader goals of regional economic connectivity and accessibility that would be directly impacted if years of progress were derailed by delay. The Rhinecliff Station project has long been recognized as a vital component of the Hudson Valley’s transportation infrastructure. The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) was awarded $28 million through the FRA’s Federal-State Partnership for State of Good Repair Program to fund replacement of the existing low-level platform with a longer high-level platform. The funding would also be used for track and signal upgrades, along with new accessibility features such as stairs, elevators, and a pedestrian bridge. These improvements will support expanded service on the Empire Corridor, increasing daily round trips between New York City and Albany. The FRA’s review of the $28 million award at this juncture of the project risks undermining years of planning and investment. The Rhinecliff Station project was awarded through a competitive, merit-based process focused on rehabilitating our nation’s aging rail infrastructure and improving passenger service. Further delay will jeopardize the much-needed repairs for this historic station that Hudson Valley commuters and visitors rely on. Accordingly, We request that the FRA provide immediate responses to the following: Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. Given the serious community concerns, we request responses in writing no later than April 23, 2026 and look forward to your prompt action to keep this essential project on track.

SCHUMER REVEALS: ONE MONTH INTO TRUMP’S IRAN WAR OF CHOICE, NEW YORKERS ARE PAYING $265+ MILLION MORE AT THE GAS PUMP | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York

Position: Senator Schumer opposes Trump's military action in Iran, characterizing it as a reckless war of choice that is driving up gas prices and imposing economic hardship on American families and small businesses.

New Congressional Report Shows Families Already Struggling With Rising Costs & Have Paid $8.4 Billion More For Gas Since Trump Began His Reckless War In Iran, Including Over $265 Million In NY Alone Despite Trump’s Promise To Lower Price Of Gas, The Average Price In NY Is Currently At Whopping $4+ Because of Trump’s Chaotic Economic Policies And Reckless War In Iran Schumer: Trump’s Iran War Is Costing NYers Millions As Trump’s reckless war of choice in Iran reaches its second month, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer revealed a new congressional report showing New Yorkers have paid $265,202,780 more for gasoline compared to prices before the war. Though the Trump campaign promised to get the price of gasoline under $2 a gallon, the average price for a gallon of gas in New York state is currently more than $4. Schumer called on Trump to stop his reckless war in Iran, which is costing hardworking New York families hundreds of millions of dollars – on top of the already increased prices New Yorkers are paying due to Trump’s counterproductive tariff war. “Trump started a war in Iran with no clear plan or strategy, and now New Yorkers are stuck paying the price at the gas pump. The Trump administration doesn’t even pretend to care, saying, ‘If they rise, they rise.’ Meanwhile, our families, farmers, and small businesses all get forced to spend millions more on gas,” said Senator Schumer. “Americans do not want Donald Trump’s war, they want lower costs. The President is ranting like an unhinged madman on social media and ignoring how American families are suffering economic pain from the gas pump to the grocery store. Day after day, Americans are paying a whopping ‘war tax’ at the gas pump and beyond thanks to Donald Trump’s rash and damaging foreign policy and failed economic policy. This reckless war in Iran is costing Americans billions, and it must end.” A new report from the Joint Economic Committee found that families in every state have had to spend millions more on gasoline over the past month. Based on average gasoline prices and data on gasoline production, the report found that New Yorkers have paid $265,202,780 more for gasoline compared to prices before the war. According to the report, families across the country are spending 35% more at the pump than they did on February 28, with the average price to fill up one tank reaching $145 for the top-selling pickup truck, $58 for the top-selling SUV, and $52 for the top-selling sedan. Overall, families across America are paying $8.4 billion more for gasoline compared to prices before Trump’s war on Iran. This is on top of the billions the war in Iran has already cost American taxpayers. In the first six days alone, the war cost American taxpayers $11.3 billion, with new estimates showing Americans’ costs for the war are expected to reach over $25 billion, and the Trump administration is asking for hundreds of billions more to fund the war, while slashing the programs American families rely on. Trump originally campaigned on the promise to get the price of gasoline under $2 a gallon. Instead, he has chosen to enter the U.S. into a conflict that is dramatically spiking costs in New York State and across the country. The average price in New York state is currently more than $4. Families are already struggling with rising healthcare, food, and energy costs due to Trump’s chaotic tariffs and ill-conceived economic policies.

SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND DEMAND VA STOP SUDDEN PLAN TO CLOSE SCHENECTADY VETERANS’ CLINIC AND IMMEDIATELY BEGIN WORK WITH LOCAL LEADERS TO ENSURE NO DISRUPTIONS IN CARE FOR 1,500+ CAPITAL REGION VETERANS WHO RELY ON FACILITY | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York

Position: Senators Schumer and Gillibrand oppose the VA's plan to close the Schenectady VA clinic without first ensuring that the 1,500+ veterans who depend on it will have continued access to high-quality, convenient care with minimal disruption, including assurances about alternative clinic distances, transportation services, and wait times.

Sudden Closure Announcement For The Schenectady VA Clinic Has Prompted Major Concerns From Capital Region Vets That Care Could Be Disrupted, Have Veterans Facing Long Wait Times, Or Major Inconveniences For Receiving The Healthcare They Earned After Serving Our Country Senators Say Capital Region Vets Need Answers and Assurances They Will Continue To Get The Local, Convenient, High-Quality Healthcare They Deserve Before Any Plan Can Move Forward Schumer, Gillibrand: We Must Protect Healthcare For Capital Region Vets After the sudden announcement from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to close the Schenectady VA clinic, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today demanded the VA provide immediate answers to ensure the healthcare for the over 1,500 Capital Region veterans who rely on this clinic will not be disrupted. The senators said this plan cannot move forward until local veterans and leaders have the assurances they need that veterans will have continued access to high-quality care, including distance to alternative clinics, access to transportation services, and how wait times will be impacted at these alternative clinics. “The Schenectady VA clinic is the hub for healthcare for over 1,500 Capital Region veterans. Some have built relationships with doctors that go back decades, we cannot risk disrupting their care. Local veterans are justifiably concerned this could lead to longer wait times or major inconveniences for getting the high-quality, convenient healthcare they earned through services to our country,” said Senator Schumer. “Capital Region veterans risked their lives for us, and we need to do right by them. This plan cannot move forward without local leaders at the table and veterans confident they will continue to get the healthcare they need. Capital Region veterans deserve nothing less.” “The Schenectady VA provides care to more than 1,500 veterans in the Capital Region who have served our country, and the decision to close this facility will have devastating consequences,” said Senator Gillibrand, member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. “Veterans put their lives on the line to defend our nation, and we have both a promise and responsibility to ensure their care. Any plans going forward must include the veterans who rely daily on the care of the Schenectady VA.” Schumer and Gillibrand’s letter to VA Secretary Collins can be found HERE or below: We write to express serious concerns and demand immediate answers regarding the sudden announcement to close the community-based outpatient clinic in Schenectady, NY, on August 28 and transition veterans to care at other VA facilities in the coming months. Any closure would impact healthcare access for the more than 1,500 veterans who rely on the personal care and relationships they have built at the facility by threatening their continuity of quality care. This sudden plan to shut down the clinic cannot move forward until Capital Region veterans have the answers and assurances that the high-quality, local, and accessible care they need will continue without disruption or inconvenience. The new plan has raised concerns among the local Capital Region veterans’ community. The VA has said that patients based in the Schenectady VA clinic will be redirected to clinics in Albany, Clifton Park, Fonda, or Oneonta. In addition, the Albany VA clinic already receives a higher volume of requests, and local veterans fear being forced to wait months before they can access medical attention. With further drives and longer waits, Capital Region veterans are worried about accessing the same quality of care they are used to and deserve in a timely manner. Our nation’s veterans experience a wide range of health issues due to their military service and other factors, all of which require accessible, high-quality, and continuous care. Some veterans have ongoing relationships with providers at the Schenectady VA clinic dating as far back as 1998. Disruptions and closures can prevent the VA from delivering continuous care to our veterans. The Capital Region veterans’ community deserves assurances that their care will not be impeded before any transition can take place. Anything else would be an abdication of responsibility to those who have served our country most honorably. Please provide answers to the following questions by April 10, 2026: We firmly believe this plan should not move forward until our local veterans receive assurances that the quality of their care will not be impacted. Local providers and veterans can attest to the importance of the Schenectady VA clinic to the community. Our nation’s veterans deserve efficient access to the highest quality of care at VA facilities. We cannot risk disrupting their access to care, and we request an explanation for this decision and answers about the VA’s plan. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

SCHUMER ANNOUNCES BINGHAMTON BATTERY HUB TO RECEIVE UP TO $45 MILLION FEDERAL AWARD AS IT ADVANCES TO NEXT PHASE OF “INNOVATION ENGINES” PROGRAM – CREATED BY SCHUMER’S CHIPS & SCIENCE LAW | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York

Schumer Helped Create The NSF Engines Contest – Through His CHIPS & Science Law – To Bolster Innovation And Supply Chains And Grow Local Economies Senator Has Long History Of Supporting Binghamton Battery Hub; Schumer Delivered Prestigious Federal Tech Hub Designation And Helped Binghamton University-Led Battery Research Hub Win Inaugural NSF Engines Competition Schumer: Binghamton Secures $45 Million Award And Advances As National Leader In Battery Technology U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today announced that the Binghamton University-led New Energy New York (NENY) has been selected as an awardee for the second phase of the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)’s Regional Innovation Engines Program, which was created by his CHIPS & Science Law. This award builds on Schumer’s previous announcement and will bring up to $45 million over the next 3 years for Binghamton’s groundbreaking battery hub. “Big news for Binghamton’s growing battery belt! $45 million was just unlocked for the Binghamton University-led New Energy New York project to continue to expand groundbreaking battery manufacturing and innovation in Upstate New York,” said Senator Chuck Schumer. “This is exactly what my CHIPS & Science Law was built to do: invest in cutting-edge technology, bring back good-paying jobs, keep us ahead of China, and ensure the batteries that power our future are made right here in Upstate NY. I’ve fought to secure tens of millions to grow the battery industry in Upstate NY, helping the region to be designated a prestigious federal Tech Hubs and be named one of the NSF’s Innovation Engines. Today’s investment keeps that momentum going and will help ensure the next breakthroughs in battery technology are made here in the U.S.A. The Southern Tier is charging ahead, and we’re just getting started.” Binghamton University President Anne D’Alleva said, “I thank Senator Schumer for his fierce advocacy for Binghamton over the years. That support for the University and his creation of the CHIPS and Science Act paved the way for this initiative as well as many of the other avenues of support that our broader battery efforts have enjoyed. This renewal acknowledges the Engine’s remarkable progress and early impact, the collective strength of its extensive partner ecosystem, and the bold vision guiding its future. The NSF Energy Storage Engine is already successfully advancing an ambitious plan to establish upstate New York as America’s Battery Tech Capital, building on our region’s strong legacy of innovation and manufacturing excellence. We thank the National Science Foundation for its support and unwavering commitment to this program.” Schumer has long fought to secure federal investment to boost Binghamton and Upstate NY’s battery manufacturing and R&D. In 2022, Schumer delivered $63.7 million in federal funding for Binghamton University’s New Energy New York proposal to make the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes a national hub for battery research and manufacturing. In 2023, Schumer secured the prestigious Tech Hubs designation, a program Schumer also created in the CHIPS & Science Law, for Binghamton University’s New Energy New York (NENY) project, accelerating the Southern Tier’s emergence as America’s next battery tech hub. In 2024, Schumer delivered a $500,000 Consortium Accelerator Award through the federal Tech Hubs program to boost the region’s ongoing work. Schumer designed the Tech Hubs program to strengthen a region’s capacity to commercialize, manufacture, and grow technology in key focus areas like batteries. In 2024, Schumer additionally announced the Binghamton University-led Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine won the esteemed U.S. National Science Foundation’s Regional “Innovation Engines” Competition (NSF Engines), which was created by his CHIPS & Science Law, bringing $15 million in federal funding immediately, with the possibility of up to $160 million total over the entirety of the program. Today’s announcement is the next phase of funding from the NSF Engines program to further spark growth in the NENY project. Now, thanks to his efforts, Binghamton is spurring innovation and bringing the manufacturing of batteries back to America, all while supporting the economic resurgence of the Southern Tier. In less than two years, the Binghamton energy storage hub, which includes the engine, has supported 15 industry-academia teams, funded more than 15 high-tech battery startups gaining over 30 customers, and helped companies access infrastructure, capital, and technology resources. For example, BAE Systems in Endicott will launch a new $65 million product line, creating 130+ new jobs. The Raymond Corporation/Toyota Material Handling has invested $15 million to establish a new Energy Solutions Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Kirkwood, creating up to 45 new jobs. CMP Advanced Mechanical Solutions will invest $8.8 million to expand its battery and storage component and assembly operations in Binghamton, creating up to 62 new jobs. In addition, new workforce development investments are building a pipeline of workers for good-paying jobs in the energy storage space. In the past year alone, companies have received more than $20 million in additional funding and won national recognition, including the Battery Manufacturer of the Year award.