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Pending vote119-hr-5282
Reauthorizing Support and Treatment for Officers in Crisis Act of 2025
To prohibit the disclosure of records by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development of individuals for the purposes of immigration enforcement, and for other purposes.
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Crossing the aisle
No party-break passage votes recorded for Charles E. Schumer. Either they've voted with Democrats on every substantive passage vote in the corpus, or their tenure overlaps few high-threshold party-line votes so far.
SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND DELIVER $20+ MILLION FOR CRITICAL RAILWAY REPAIRS IN ROCHESTER-FINGER LAKES REGION & SUPPORT MAJOR BUSINESSES THAT RELY ON RAILWAY | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York
Position: The release announces $20.8 million in federal CRISI funding for rail track repairs and upgrades in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region and states that the senators support continued federal investment in Upstate New York infrastructure.
New Fed Funding Includes $11M To Replace Ten Miles Of Track In Wayne County And Nearly $10M To Replace Forty Miles Of Track Between Brockport And Lockport
Funding Comes From U.S. Department Of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure And Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, Which Senators Boosted In Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law
Schumer, Gillibrand: Getting Rochester-Finger Lakes Rail On Track For Safer Future!
U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $20,843,235 in federal funding to make critical improvements to rail infrastructure in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region. The funding includes $11.2 million for the Ontario Midland Railroad and $9.6 million for the Falls Road Railroad. This federal investment comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program that the Senators fought to boost funding for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Law.
“This more than $20 million puts the Rochester-Finger Lakes region on track for a safer future. Thanks to significant federal funding from my Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, New York railroad companies from Lockport to Wayne County now have the resources they need to repair aging tracks that the region’s top employers, including Coca-Cola Fairlife, Xerox, Keurig Dr. Pepper/Motts, and more, rely on to grow,” said Senator Schumer. “These rail upgrades mean fewer trucks on the road, lower fuel consumption, and more jobs. I will continue fighting to deliver federal support for the infrastructure improvements Upstate New York needs.”
“This critical $20-plus million investment thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will upgrade tens of miles of track across the Rochester–Finger Lakes region, ensuring our rail system is safer, faster, and more reliable,” said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD). “From Wayne County to Brockport and Lockport, our local railways keep New Yorkers and our businesses moving. These critical repairs will strengthen our supply chains, protect good-paying jobs, and help drive economic growth across Upstate New York.”
Ontario Midland Railroad (OMID) received $11,200,000 for the Wayne County Mainline Safety and Reliability Project, which will modernize deteriorating rail infrastructure while advancing several crucial long-term goals for OMID. The project will rehabilitate an approximately 10-mile segment of track in Wayne County, replace approximately nine miles of rail, resurface eight at-grade crossings, replace seven turnouts, remove three turnouts, and perform associated ballast placement, tamping, and surfacing. These improvements will reduce truck traffic, lower fuel consumption, and support workforce growth and economic development. Schumer urged U.S. Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Administrator David Fink to deliver this funding for the Rochester-Finger Lakes region.
Ontario Midland Railroad provides important freight rail service to agricultural, manufacturing, transload, and other commercial customers across the region. Schumer explained that current aging infrastructure creates an operational bottleneck, hindering efficiency and long-term success of the businesses and industries that rely on this corridor. Upgrading the East-West line will be the key to unlocking new job growth and sales opportunities for many of the region’s top employers, including the Coca-Cola Fairlife milk factory and Xerox’s campus in the town of Webster in Monroe County, as well as many of Wayne County’s top employers, including Keurig Dr. Pepper/Motts production facility, Sodus Cold Storage facility, and Fleishmann’s Vinegar factory. This upgrade would, in turn, benefit the economy of the overall area served by Ontario Midland Railroad and is key to the success of many of the region’s top employers, including Thatcher Chemical, Baldwin Richardson Foods, CRC Polymer Systems, Maco Packaging, K.M. Davies Co., and Nutrien Ag, which is a major supplier of fertilizer to local Wayne County farms, and more. This project would provide a critical boost in our efforts to grow new jobs and ensure on-time delivery of raw materials and on-time shipment of these companies’ products to market. Upgrades will enhance rail safety and streamline network performance, crucial to maintaining supply-chain continuity in a demanding modern economy.
"We are profoundly grateful to Senators Schumer and Gillibrand for their relentless advocacy and partnership in securing this critical 2025–2026 grant for the Ontario Midland Railroad. This federal support is a game-changer for our operations, ensuring we can maintain safe, reliable service and continue driving economic growth across the communities we proudly serve. They understand how vital robust short-line rail infrastructure is to Upstate New York, and we thank our Senators for standing with OMID to secure our future,” said Robert Babcock, Chairman, and Jeffrey Bauman, President of the Ontario Midland Railroad (OMID).
“We are pleased that the Federal Railroad Administration has approved the Ontario Midland Railroad’s application for funding under the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program. This funding will support comprehensive modernization of Ontario Midland Railroad’s east-west corridor by replacing aging infrastructure with new rail and crossties. These upgrades are essential to eliminating current operational bottlenecks and improving track integrity, which in turn drives greater transportation efficiency across the Greater Rochester, NY region. By revitalizing this line, the project ensures our local manufacturing, agricultural, and transload partners have access to the high-capacity, resilient rail service they need to compete in today’s economy,” said Matt Hurlbutt, President and CEO of Greater Rochester Enterprise.
Brian Pincelli, Executive Director, Wayne County Economic Development & Planning, said, “Rail infrastructure is a significant element of economic development, and the OMID system supports key Wayne County agricultural and manufacturing industries. This funding will allow OMID to make key modernization investments that will serve the current and future county economy by removing existing operational bottlenecks, enhancing track integrity, and improving transportation efficiency throughout the region.”
In addition, Falls Road Railroad Co. received $9,643,235 for the Falls Branch Track, Crossing, & Bridge Project. The project includes the rehabilitation of approximately 40 miles of track and rail infrastructure between Brockport and Lockport. The project will replace rail and ties, add ballast, resurface main line track, rehabilitate a bridge, and resurface six at-grade crossings.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, which Schumer crafted and led to passage in the Senate, included $5 billion over five years for the CRISI program. The program invests in various projects within the United States to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support more efficient travel and goods movement; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors.
SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND DELIVER $3.1 MILLION TO MODERNIZE CENTRAL NEW YORK FREIGHT RAIL CORRIDOR CONNECTING CORTLAND COUNTY TO ONONDAGA COUNTY | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York
Position: The senators support federal funding to modernize freight rail infrastructure on the NYS&W Main Line between Cortland and Virgil, citing the need to support regional businesses and major manufacturing projects such as Micron.
Senators Say NYS&W Main Line Is A Key Corridor For Freight Rail Needed To Support Central NY Businesses And Major Manufacturing Projects Like Micron
Thanks To Schumer’s Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, New Fed Investment Will Help NYS&W Upgrade Infrastructure Between Cortland And Virgil
Schumer, Gillibrand: Getting CNY Rail Infrastructure Back On Track!
After Schumer two years ago stood in Cortland to tout major federal funding to upgrade rail infrastructure in Cortland and Onondaga Counties, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced that the New York, Susquehanna & Western Railway (NYS&W) has received an additional $3,168,302 in federal funding to make critical improvements to the Main Line between Cortland and Virgil. This federal investment comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program that Schumer fought to boost funding for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Law. The senators said that with major new business and manufacturing investments like Micron happening in Central New York, it is more important than ever to upgrade the region’s aging rail infrastructure.
“New upgrades to NYS&W’s Main Line just got the green light! I’m proud to deliver more than $3 million in federal funding from my Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law for critical rail improvements between Cortland and Virgil,” said Senator Schumer. “With major new business and manufacturing projects like Micron underway in Central New York, it is more important than ever that the region is connected and has modern infrastructure. Two years ago, I stood in Cortland to deliver millions in federal funding to replace miles of near century-old rail, and I’m proud to deliver more for Central New York’s rail infrastructure today.”
“The NYS&W line keeps New Yorkers and our businesses moving,” said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD). “This critical $3.1 million investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will modernize the rail system between Cortland and Virgil just in time for new corporations like Micron coming to the area. It is critical that with the uptick in new companies coming to Central New York, we have a rail system to match.”
“NYS&W is proud to receive this CRISI award, which funds $3.1 million in track rehabilitation and revitalization between Syracuse and Cortland, New York, including upgrades to Continuous Welded Rail. These critical infrastructure improvements will enhance operational safety, increase fuel efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, allow for higher track speeds, and improve service for NYS&W’s customers. NYS&W remains committed to supporting local businesses, strengthening regional supply chains, and promoting economic growth and development throughout Central New York. NYS&W is grateful for Senator Schumer’s unwavering support for investments in the regional and national rail network,” said James Bonner, President of NYS&W.
Schumer urged U.S. Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Administrator David Fink to deliver this funding for Central New York. NYS&W will use this funding to remove slow zones, reduce maintenance costs, and enable 286,000-pound railcar capacity by helping install continuous welded rail and ties and renew ballast along approximately 4.5 miles of rail. The federal funding today comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. This award brings the total federal investment in NYSW’s project to $13,528,522, including $3,961,750 in FY23-24 CRISI funding, $3,467,348 in FY22 CRISI funding, and $2,931,122 in FY21 CRISI funding, all a direct result of the historic increases in funding for the program Schumer fought to secure in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, which Schumer crafted and led to passage in the Senate, included $5 billion over five years for the CRISI program. The program invests in projects to improve railroad safety, efficiency, and reliability; mitigate congestion at both intercity passenger and freight rail chokepoints to support more efficient travel and goods movement; enhance multi-modal connections; and lead to new or substantially improved Intercity Passenger Rail Transportation corridors.
The NYS&W operates over 400 miles of track in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania and is 286,000-pound gross weight capable on all lines. NYS&W serves over 85 customers and transports a wide range of commodities such as feed ingredients, lumber, and other building materials, chemicals, and aggregates for customers in New York State.
SCHUMER DELIVERS $1.4 MILLION TO IMPROVE WASTEWATER INFRASTRUCTURE IN CHEMUNG COUNTY | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York
Position: The release announces $1.4 million in Appalachian Regional Commission funding for sewer main expansion at the Southern Tier Logistics Business Park in Chemung County and states support for infrastructure investment and economic growth in the area.
New Fed Investment From Appalachian Regional Commission, Which Schumer Boosted In Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, Will Improve Infrastructure At Business Park And Support New Economic Growth
Schumer Previously Delivered More Than $200M From His Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law For Water System Improvements In Chemung County
Schumer: Fed $$ Flowing For Water Infrastructure In Chemung County
U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced $1,400,000 through the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for Chemung County’s Sewer Improvement for Economic Growth project. This federal investment will support the development of 4,500 linear feet of sewer main to expand system capacity, improve reliability, and support new industrial and commercial growth in the Village of Horseheads and Chemung County.
“I’m proud to deliver $1.4 million from my Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to improve wastewater infrastructure in Chemung County. This new investment builds on millions I’ve previously secured by helping develop thousands of feet of sewer main to expand system capacity and support new economic growth in Horseheads and the entire county,” said Senator Schumer. “I will never stop fighting to secure infrastructure investments, support business and economic growth, and keep Upstate New Yorkers safe and healthy.”
Schumer explained these federal funds will help complete critical wastewater infrastructure improvements at the Southern Tier Logistics Business Park in the Village of Horseheads, ensuring reliable, resilient, and environmentally compliant sewer service for current and future employers. The project includes constructing and rehabilitating sewer mains, installing new manholes, building a modern pump station, and restoring abandoned lines to support the site’s redevelopment from a former military depot into a competitive manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics hub. These enhancements will expand sewer capacity, strengthen business park readiness for advanced industry investment, and support economic growth throughout the Southern Tier. Construction is expected to take three years.
Schumer has a long history of supporting water system improvements in Chemung County. In 2024, he delivered an unprecedented $200 million in federal funding for water system improvements to modernize and expand the Milton Street Wastewater Treatment Plant and support the County’s ongoing efforts to install new equipment, increase treatment capacity to stop sewer overflows, and construct cost-effective wastewater improvements to ensure the facility’s compliance with federal and state requirements. In addition, Schumer delivered $1 million to consolidate two wastewater treatment plants, Milton Street and Lake Street, into a single, regional treatment facility in the fiscal year 2023 federal budget.
In 2021, Schumer negotiated and secured $1 billion for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Law, to be dispersed over five years, starting with $200 million in fiscal year 2022. This significant boost in funding has been used to support economic development, infrastructure, workforce, and other community development projects as well as programs intended to improve the quality of life, stimulate business growth, and create good-paying job opportunities in local communities like those in the Southern Tier and Western New York.
The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is an economic development partnership agency of the federal government and 13 state governments, focusing on 423 counties across the Appalachian Region. ARC’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community, capacity, and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia. New York State receives an allocation of resources from the ARC each year to fund area development in NYS’s 14-county Appalachian Region. The New York counties are represented by one of three Local Development Districts: Southern Tier West (STW) based in Salamanca, NY and comprised of Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua counties; Southern Tier Central (STC) based in Corning, NY and comprised of Chemung, Schuyler, and Steuben counties; and Southern Tier 8 in Binghamton, NY and comprised of Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Schoharie, Tioga, and Tompkins counties.
AS VERIZON PROPOSES TRANSITION AWAY FROM COPPER LANDLINES, SCHUMER DEMANDS TRANSPARENCY, NO COST HIKES, AND RELIABLE SERVICE FOR RURAL NEW YORKERS | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York
Position: Senator Schumer calls on Verizon to guarantee that its transition away from copper landlines will not raise costs for customers, will provide transparency about alternative technologies, and will maintain reliable emergency and 911 access during power outages, especially in rural areas.
Schumer Seeks Assurances From Verizon That New Yorkers—Including Seniors, Residents On Fixed Incomes, and Small Businesses—Won’t Face Higher Costs And Be Forced To Pay More For Essential Phone Service
Schumer Says Alternative Equipment Must Provide Reliable Emergency Service & 911 Access During Power Outages, Especially For Residents In Rural Communities With Limited Connectivity
Schumer To Verizon: Landlines Are Lifelines
As Verizon transitions away from copper-wire landlines, generating widespread confusion and concern for many New Yorkers, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer today called on Verizon to ensure that all New Yorkers have uninterrupted, reliable service, are protected from higher costs, and will be provided transparency from the company about what any new, alternative technologies might mean for them, including their ability to contact emergency services and stay connected during power outages.
Verizon is currently seeking approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to discontinue legacy plain old telephone service (POTS) delivered over copper. Customers in New York who utilize copper-wire landlines, many of whom are seniors as well as residents of rural communities, are worried about what this means for the reliability and accessibility of service. Schumer demanded answers from Verizon and said the company must engage with residents to ensure there are no safety, reliability, and connectivity challenges.
“As Verizon moves to transition away from copper landlines, Upstate New Yorkers are concerned about losing a vital connection. They deserve clear answers about what this means for their ability to stay connected and make ends meet. That’s why I’m turning up the volume on Verizon, demanding transparency, affordability, and a commitment to working with communities to make sure this critical service is not interrupted for customers now connected via copper landlines,” said Senator Schumer. “Verizon must guarantee that this transition will not mean higher costs—especially for seniors, residents on fixed incomes, or small businesses—and that any alternative options will provide reliable service to contact emergency services, including during power outages. This is crucial in rural Upstate communities where there are limited connectivity options.”
Verizon is currently transitioning away from copper-wire landlines, which can be expensive and time-consuming to repair, according to the company, towards other alternatives like fiber, fixed wireless, cellular wireless, and satellite. Currently, the company is sending notices to customers in New York and across the country who still use copper landlines. As New Yorkers receive these letters, many residents are worried they will lose service, not have a reliable connection during a time of need, or be forced to pay more if the FCC approves this change. Schumer underscored that for seniors, landlines are lifelines, and that modernizing Verizon’s network should not come at the cost of small businesses and those on fixed incomes.
In addition, across Upstate New York, residents in rural communities continue to rely on traditional copper landlines as a critical lifeline during natural disasters and other emergencies. Traditional POTS can remain operational during power outages because the line is powered from the telephone network, rather than solely from electricity in a home. Traditional copper service provides a well-established fixed connection to a specific service address, while replacement technologies can introduce additional questions about wireless coverage, power backup, indoor signal strength, network congestion, and the performance of connected devices during emergencies. For many rural households, cell service is unreliable, and newer, modern infrastructure alternatives like fiber may not yet reach their homes or communities. These reliable landlines are vital for seniors and rural residents to ensure they can contact emergency services when they need them most, especially in areas with weak or nonexistent cellular coverage or access to broadband.
Schumer also described how, according to local fire inspectors, there are many small businesses and restaurants that still use copper landlines for their fire alarm dialups. This change could cost these small businesses thousands of dollars to transition to new alternatives, such as cell or internet dialups, depending on the size of the system they need. Some small businesses have or are actively transitioning, but those that have not could potentially face compliance violations and increased costs associated with the change.
Schumer explained that Verizon has filed two separate applications seeking authority to discontinue legacy copper-based POTS service. The first covers portions of nine states. A second application filed on September 9 covers portions of nine additional states, including New York, as well as the District of Columbia. Schumer is also urging the FCC to extend the review timeline of the second application, which applies to New York, to ensure that the proposal can be fully assessed and that customers can be directly informed by Verizon as to what any potential changes at their home or business might mean for them.
The Communications Workers of America (CWA) has opposed the FCC’s Network Modernization Order under Chairman Brendan Carr, in which the Commission removed essential protections under Section 214, eliminated traditional network change filings, greenlit replacement alternatives such as basic 5/1 Mbps mobile wireless or third-party voice, and preempted state and local regulations that impede service discontinuance. CWA, consumer advocates, and local officials are concerned that dismantling oversight without enforceable protections applicable to major carriers threatens service reliability, 911 emergency access, backup power during outages, and telecommunications jobs.
Schumer’s letter to Verizon can be found HERE or below:
I write today amid reports that Verizon is seeking approval from the Federal Communications Commission to phase out traditional copper-based landline service. Many residents across New York have already begun receiving notices about the transition from copper to other alternatives and are concerned about what these changes will mean for them.
Across Upstate New York, many areas and rural communities have weak or nonexistent cellular coverage or access to broadband. Copper landlines have been essential for rural and senior citizens to stay connected and access help, keep small businesses up and running, and help New Yorkers stay connected in cellular dead zones as well as during power outages.
As Verizon begins to transition away from copper landlines for modern alternatives like fiber or wireless, I implore you to ensure no household sees their service interrupted or costs increased. Furthermore, I request a written response to the following questions that have been raised by constituents and community leaders:
While I am encouraged to see Verizon promise continued service to those without FCC-approved alternative equipment, I urge you to transparently engage with customers and work diligently to ensure that customers have all the information they need regarding this proposal. I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your response.
AFTER LEADING BIPARTISAN EFFORT URGING DEPARTMENTS OF DEFENSE AND COMMERCE TO SECURE SILICON CARBIDE SUPPLY CHAIN FROM UNFAIR CHINESE COMPETITION, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES MASSIVE $1.5 BILLION FEDERAL INVESTMENT FOR WOLFSPEED TO SUPERCHARGE DOMESTIC SILICON CARBIDE SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING IN UPSTATE NEW YORK | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York
Position: Senator Schumer announces a $1.5 billion Department of Defense loan commitment to Wolfspeed to expand domestic silicon carbide semiconductor manufacturing, and urges the Departments of Defense and Commerce to support a whole-of-government response to strengthen domestic silicon carbide supply chains against Chinese competition.
Schumer Says Transformative 30-Year DOD Loan Commitment Positions Wolfspeed As A Supplier Of Silicon Carbide Semiconductors Essential To U.S. National Security, Catalyzing Domestic Chip Production & Creating Good-Paying Jobs In The Mohawk Valley
As Longtime Champion Of Wolfspeed, Schumer Previously Delivered The CHIPS Investment Tax Credit From His Bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law To Expand Production & Workforce At Wolfspeed’s Fab In Marcy
Schumer: We’re Making The Mohawk Valley A Key Stop On Upstate NY’s Rapidly Growing Semiconductor Superhighway
After leading a bipartisan delegation of U.S. Senators urging the Secretaries of Defense and Commerce to support a whole-of-government response to preserve and strengthen domestic manufacturing of silicon carbide, Schumer today announced a massive $1.5 billion investment from the U.S. Department of Defense (“DoD”) for Wolfspeed to supercharge manufacturing of its silicon carbide semiconductors, which are critical for next-generation applications across aerospace, defense, and infrastructure.
Schumer, building on years of tireless advocacy in support of Wolfspeed, including delivering the federal CHIPS Investment Tax Credit as part of his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, said that this 30-year, $1.5 billion loan commitment through the DoD’s Office of Strategic Capital would enable Wolfspeed to expand production of their state-of-the-art semiconductors for use by the defense supply chain, creating good-paying jobs at its industry-leading fab in the Mohawk Valley and would also expand Upstate New York’s rapidly growing Semiconductor Superhighway.
“I’ve been advocating for years for the federal investment needed for Wolfspeed to scale domestic production of silicon carbide chips, which this $1.5 billion DoD investment would supercharge. I have been leading the bipartisan charge to strengthen the domestic manufacturing of silicon carbide because of how critical it is to our national security and to outcompeting China. Wolfspeed is powering American technological leadership, national security, and international competitiveness from their state-of-the-art semiconductor fab at the Marcy Nanocenter, and their silicon carbide chips would define the next generation of innovation,” said Senator Schumer. “After fighting for more than a decade to transform Upstate New York into a globally recognized semiconductor superhighway, this is yet another example that the work is paying off here in Oneida County. I will never stop fighting to create good-paying jobs, protect our national security, and deliver for communities across the Mohawk Valley.”
In a recent bipartisan letter led by Schumer, he and the other senators explained that silicon carbide is the foundational substrate for a critical class of next-generation semiconductors thanks to its unique combination of high voltage tolerance, thermal conductivity, and switching speed, which make it both indispensable across advanced defense systems, electric grid infrastructure, 5G telecommunications, and the modern automotive sector.
“We believe the scale and 30-year tenor of this conditional commitment reflects the long-term importance of the technology and manufacturing capabilities Wolfspeed has built in the United States,” said Robert Feurle, Chief Executive Officer of Wolfspeed. “This financing would strengthen our continued advancement of silicon carbide materials and wide bandgap power devices, reinforcing our efforts to build a more resilient U.S. semiconductor and defense industrial base.”
On the heels of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to the U.S. and Beijing launching its Made in China 2025 initiative, making silicon carbide a national industrial, military, and economic priority, Schumer emphasized that accelerating U.S. global leadership in the development and production of cutting-edge silicon carbide, gallium nitride, and other high bandgap semiconductors produced by companies like Wolfspeed as well as onsemi, with operations in both the Hudson Valley and Central New York, is critical to countering China’s efforts to dominate the global silicon carbide semiconductor industry and supply chain. Over the last five years, Chinese producers have increased their share of the global silicon carbide market from under 5 percent to nearly 50 percent.
Schumer added, “As I’ve been warning for years, we cannot let the CCP get its hands on our advanced chips and the manufacturing equipment needed to produce them. It's time to stand up to Xi for the sake of the American people and for global security. We must act now to bolster and secure the silicon carbide semiconductor industry before it's too late.”
Schumer has fought for decades to position the Mohawk Valley and Upstate NY to attract billions of dollars in new investment, create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, and ascend as a national leader in advanced manufacturing and defense technologies. In addition to creating the conditions for companies like Wolfspeed to grow and thrive, Schumer is actively working with Oneida County and Mohawk Valley EDGE to help lure additional semiconductor, manufacturing supply chain, and defense technology companies to the Marcy Nanocenter, which the Senator has long called one of the premier, shovel-ready sites in the entire country, as well as the Griffiss Business & Technology Park.
“This $1.5 billion federal commitment further demonstrates that the groundwork laid by Oneida County continues to pay off and recognizes the critical role Wolfspeed plays in the semiconductor ecosystem. The advanced semiconductor technologies being developed by Wolfspeed have important applications for our national defense and complement the groundbreaking research and innovation taking place at the Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome. Having these capabilities in our community strengthens Oneida County’s position in the nation’s semiconductor and defense technology ecosystem, and this announcement reinforces the importance of continuing to grow that presence. I thank Senator Schumer for his bipartisan work to help make this commitment possible and for his continued efforts to support semiconductor manufacturing and national security in our region,” said Anthony J. Picente Jr., Oneida County Executive
“Today’s announcement is another significant vote of confidence in Wolfspeed, the Marcy Nanocenter, and the growing semiconductor ecosystem taking root in Upstate New York. We are grateful to Senator Chuck Schumer for his relentless advocacy on behalf of Wolfspeed and the broader semiconductor industry. His leadership has helped position New York and the Mohawk Valley as critical contributors to America’s advanced manufacturing, economic competitiveness, and national security. This conditional financing commitment further reinforces the importance of Wolfspeed’s operations in Marcy and the long-term opportunities that lie ahead for our region,” said Marc Barraco, Chief of Staff, Mohawk Valley EDGE.
Thanks to Schumer’s bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law, Upstate New York is undergoing a historic transformation into an internationally recognized epicenter of semiconductor manufacturing, innovation, and workforce development. The senator landed and delivered billions of dollars to realize Micron’s historic $100+ billion semiconductor megafab in Onondaga County – which broke ground earlier this year and is currently proceeding ahead of schedule – creating over 50,000 new good-paying jobs and thousands of construction jobs. The senator fought for and successfully delivered a designation and $40 million implementation award to launch the NY Smart I-Corridor Tech Hub, establishing Upstate NY as a national hub for workforce training, innovation, and manufacturing of semiconductor technologies. The senator also delivered a $32 million CHIPS funding agreement for Corning Incorporated to fuel its $315 million investment to increase the production of its specialized glass vital for semiconductor manufacturing in Northern NY, creating 300 good-paying manufacturing and construction jobs.
Schumer has also been a leading champion for national security innovation and economic development across the region. Schumer has fought tirelessly to deliver billions of dollars in annual appropriations and federal contracts to Rome’s Air Force Research Lab, and drive hundreds of millions of dollars of annual economic impact across the Mohawk Valley and more than 1,000 good-paying jobs at Rome Lab and across its burgeoning defense industrial base. Schumer delivered a $30 million federal Defense Production Act investment, driving TTM Technologies’ $130 million expansion to manufacture cutting-edge printed circuit boards critical and create up to 400 good-paying jobs in the Town of DeWitt. Schumer has also successfully secured more than $100 million in annual appropriations and federal contracts over the last decade for Saab to expand the footprint of its global headquarters in East Syracuse, adding hundreds of good-paying new jobs and tens of thousands of square feet of new production capacity.
A copy of the Schumer-led delegation letter to the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of Commerce is included below:
Dear Secretaries Hegseth and Lutnick:
We write to draw your attention to a critical matter at the intersection of national security, economic competitiveness and trade policy: the accelerating Chinese government effort to dominate the global silicon carbide semiconductor industry and supply chain, and the urgent need for a whole-of-government response to preserve and strengthen trusted domestic and allied manufacturing of silicon carbide.
Silicon carbide is the foundational substrate for a critical class of next-generation semiconductors that are indispensable across advanced defense systems, AI data centers, electric grid infrastructure, 5G telecommunications, and the modern automotive sector. Silicon carbide's unique combination of high-voltage tolerance, thermal conductivity, and switching speed makes it irreplaceable in high-performance air, land and sea propulsion systems, directed energy weapons, and air and missile defense systems.
Since launching its Made in China 2025 initiative, Beijing has recognized the military and economic importance of silicon carbide and made global domination in the sector a national industrial priority. In the last five years, Chinese producers have increased their share of the global silicon carbide wafer market from less than 5 percent to nearly 50 percent today.
Clearly, China intends to undermine another strategically important industry built on American technology and ingenuity. If this campaign succeeds, the United States will find itself dependent on adversary supply chains for materials essential to our most advanced defense systems and critical technological infrastructure. The domestic supply chain is already under significant pressure and we are at risk of losing industry leaders and globally competitive manufacturers to this coordinated campaign. The time to act is now, before we reach the crisis stage where remedies are impossible or far more expensive and time-consuming.
We encourage you to leverage Defense Production Act authorities, critical minerals designations, Buy America requirements, and any other authorities at your disposal to ensure the U.S. can protect its silicon carbide supply chain.
SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE $4+ MILLION FOR RENSSELAER COUNTY TO REMOVE LEAD PAINT HAZARDS FROM AGING HOMES; SENATORS SAY INVESTMENT WILL PROTECT THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF CAPITAL REGION CHILDREN FROM TOXIC LEAD POISONING | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York
Position: The senators announced $4.41 million in HUD Lead Hazard Reduction Program funding for Rensselaer County to remove lead paint hazards from homes and protect children's health, and they expressed support for continued federal efforts to eliminate lead paint and lead service pipes.
Federal Lead Hazard Reduction Program Will Boost Rensselaer County To Help Rid Homes And Communities Of Lead Hazards
Schumer Has Long Fought To Get The Lead Out Of Capital Region – Securing Millions In Fed $$ To Remove Lead Hazards From Homes – And Latest Investment Will Boost Efforts Even Further To Rid Homes Across Upstate NY Of Toxic Lead Paint
Schumer, Gillibrand: Fed $$$ Is A Shot In The Arm To Protect Western NY’s Children And Public Health
U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $4,410,012.82 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Lead Hazard Reduction Program. The senators explained that the funding will be used to address lead-based paint hazards, improving the health of children and families in Rensselaer County.
“No amount of toxic lead exposure is safe for children. Today, I am proud to deliver more than $4 million for communities in Rensselaer County to remove lead paint from homes to protect our children and public health,” said Senator Schumer. “Lead poisoning is an irreversible, preventable tragedy that robs many families and children of their future. This major federal funding is the shot in the arm that these regions need to boost lead paint removal and prevention and protect the health and safety of families in Upstate NY.”
Everyone deserves a home free of potential health risks, yet thousands of New York families are exposed to dangerous lead paint daily," said Senator Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Housing Subcommittee. "This exposure is especially harmful to children, who are at disproportionate risk for adverse effects. I'm proud to deliver this funding from the Housing Appropriations bill that I negotiated to help clear hazardous lead paint from homes in Rensselaer County, and I won't stop fighting until lead paint is a relic of the past and no longer a threat to New Yorkers."
This funding builds on years of efforts by Schumer to help address toxic lead exposure across the Capital Region. Schumer in 2024 helped secure $5 million for Albany and nearly $4 million for the City of Schenectady through HUD’s Lead Hazard Reduction Program to bolster ongoing efforts.
Schumer has long been a driving force in securing federal funding to reduce lead exposure in New York. In addition to fighting lead exposure in paint, Schumer has also led the charge to increase federal funding to eliminate lead service pipes for drinking water in New York. The senator secured one of the largest federal investments ever into eliminating lead service pipes in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law, which includes a $15 billion carve-out within the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) over 5 years ($3 billion every year) for lead service pipe replacement.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), lead is much more harmful to children than adults because it can affect children’s developing nerves and brains. Lead-based paint, still encasing the walls of many homes, often erodes and settles on children’s toys on the floor, eventually falling into the hands and mouths of children. For children under the age of 6, lead exposure can result in developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral issues, which may lead to lifelong health and financial consequences. Schumer has long advocated for protecting New York’s children and families in the past by securing millions of dollars in federal funding to eradicate these toxic elements from homes in order to reduce lead poisoning cases. Lead poisoning can cause developmental difficulties, physical pain, and neurological damage.
Leader Schumer and Senator Gillibrand, as ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Housing Subcommittee, secured $295.6 million for HUD’s Lead Hazard Reduction Program when negotiating the fiscal year 2026 funding bill that was enacted earlier this year. The purpose of HUD’s Lead Hazard Reduction Program is to identify and control lead-based paint hazards in eligible privately-owned housing for rental or owner-occupants. These grants are used to assist municipalities in carrying out lead hazard control activities.
SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE $10+ MILLION FOR WESTERN NY COMMUNITIES TO REMOVE LEAD PAINT HAZARDS FROM AGING HOMES; SENATORS SAY INVESTMENT WILL PROTECT THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF NY’S CHILDREN FROM TOXIC LEAD POISONING | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York
Position: The senators announced $10,280,387 in HUD Lead Hazard Reduction Program funding to remove lead-based paint hazards from homes in Erie and Niagara Counties, and stated that no amount of toxic lead exposure is safe for children. Senator Gillibrand said lead paint should be eliminated from homes and that she will continue fighting until it is no longer a threat.
Federal Lead Hazard Reduction Program Will Boost City Of Buffalo And Niagara County To Help Rid Homes And Communities Of Lead Hazards
Schumer Has Long Fought To Get The Lead Out Of Western NY – Securing Millions In Fed $$ To Remove Lead Hazards From Homes – And Latest Investment Will Boost Efforts Even Further To Rid Homes Across Upstate NY Of Toxic Lead Paint
Schumer, Gillibrand: Fed $$$ Is A Shot In The Arm To Protect Western NY’s Children And Public Health
U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $10,280,387 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Lead Hazard Reduction Program. The senators explained that the funding will be used to address lead-based paint hazards, improving the health of children and families in Erie and Niagara Counties.
“No amount of toxic lead exposure is safe for children. Today, I am proud to deliver more than $10 million for communities in Western New York to remove lead paint from homes to protect our children and public health,” said Senator Schumer. “Lead poisoning is an irreversible, preventable tragedy that robs many families and children of their future. This major federal funding is the shot in the arm that these regions need to boost lead paint removal and prevention and protect the health and safety of families in Upstate NY.”
"Everyone deserves a home free of potential health risks, yet thousands of New York families are exposed to dangerous lead paint daily," said Senator Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Housing Subcommittee. "This exposure is especially harmful to children, who are at disproportionate risk for adverse effects. I'm proud to deliver this funding from the Housing Appropriations bill that I negotiated to help clear hazardous lead paint from homes in Buffalo and Niagara County, and I won't stop fighting until lead paint is a relic of the past and no longer a threat to New Yorkers."
"The Niagara County Department of Health appreciates the support of our federal delegation in securing grant funding for our lead hazard programs," said Dr. Fauzia Khan, Director of the Niagara County Department of Health. "Preventing lead exposure before it impacts children is a fundamental public health priority. These funds will directly support ongoing efforts to identify and remediate lead hazards in homes across Niagara County.”
“Every child in Buffalo deserves to grow up in a safe, healthy home, and our city’s high rates of childhood lead poisoning made pursuing this funding a priority for my administration,” Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan said. “This investment will help homeowners and landlords make lead-safe repairs, prioritizing homes with children under six, while supporting the contractors and training needed to get the work done. I thank Senators Schumer and Gillibrand for their support and our City team for securing this investment in healthier homes for Buffalo families.”
Today’s announcement includes $4,030,387 for the City of Buffalo and $6,250,000 for Niagara County. This funding builds on years of efforts by Schumer to help address toxic lead exposure across Western NY. Schumer in 2023 helped secure $3.3 million for Niagara County and in 2024 helped secure $5.75 million for Chautauqua County through HUD’s Lead Hazard Reduction Program to bolster ongoing efforts.
Schumer has long been a driving force in securing federal funding to reduce lead exposure in New York. In addition to fighting lead exposure in paint, Schumer has also led the charge to increase federal funding to eliminate lead service pipes for drinking water in New York. The senator secured one of the largest federal investments ever into eliminating lead service pipes in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Law, which includes a $15 billion carve-out within the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) over 5 years ($3 billion every year) for lead service pipe replacement.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), lead is much more harmful to children than adults because it can affect children’s developing nerves and brains. Lead-based paint, still encasing the walls of many homes, often erodes and settles on children’s toys on the floor, eventually falling into the hands and mouths of children. For children under the age of 6, lead exposure can result in developmental delays, learning difficulties, and behavioral issues, which may lead to lifelong health and financial consequences. Schumer has long advocated for protecting New York’s children and families in the past by securing millions of dollars in federal funding to eradicate these toxic elements from homes in order to reduce lead poisoning cases. Lead poisoning can cause developmental difficulties, physical pain, and neurological damage.
Leader Schumer and Senator Gillibrand, as ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Housing Subcommittee, secured $295.6 million for HUD’s Lead Hazard Reduction Program when negotiating the fiscal year 2026 funding bill that was enacted earlier this year. The purpose of HUD’s Lead Hazard Reduction Program is to identify and control lead-based paint hazards in eligible privately-owned housing for rental or owner-occupants. These grants are used to assist municipalities in carrying out lead hazard control activities.
SCHUMER STANDS WITH NEW YORK CENTERS AGAINST PROPOSED FEDERAL CHANGES TO HEAD START THAT THREATEN PROGRAMS SERVING ROUGHLY 40,000 NEW YORK CHILDREN | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York
Position: Senator Schumer opposes the Trump administration's proposed federal rule changes to Head Start, arguing that the changes would weaken quality standards, eliminate essential services like health screenings and nutrition programs, and harm vulnerable children and families in New York and nationwide.
New York Providers Warn That Federal Changes Could Weaken Head Start Programs And Put Essential Services For Families At Risk
Schumer Leads Senate Democrats Against Changes That Could Lower Head Start Quality Standards And Hurt New York Families
Schumer: Head Start Is Under Attack. We Must Protect It.
After a new federal proposal was released earlier this summer that threatens Head Start programs in New York and across the country, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer today rallied against the proposed rule with the support of providers from across Upstate New York. Schumer explained the proposed rule would dismantle Head Start by gutting quality standards that ensure that America’s most vulnerable children and families have access to educational programs, medical and dental exams, developmental screenings, and nutrition services. In New York, it is estimated that the proposed rule could lead to 2,854 jobs lost, result in a $12.68 million decline in funding for health services for children and families, and force families to pay $862 more per child for additional childcare.
“Roughly 40,000 children in New York benefit from access to Head Start and the early childhood education and comprehensive services it provides families. The proposed changes by the administration threaten the quality of these programs and put essential services at risk. From eliminating math and literacy requirements, to rolling back health services and developmental screenings, and reducing the allowable cap on administrative costs, the gutting of Head Start will hurt hundreds of thousands of children across the country. From DOGE to healthcare, the tendency to cut and gut, rather than to boost and build is sadly reflective of this administration’s misguided approach to governing in general,” said Senator Schumer. “That is why I’m leading Senate Democrats in the fight to stand up against this effort that undercuts Head Start and undercuts our children and makes hardworking families pay the price. We must protect Head Start and invest in New York families.”
Earlier this summer, the Trump administration released a new proposal that would gut federal performance standards for Head Start. The proposed rule would eliminate federal requirements that ensure low-income families have access to school readiness resources for children from birth to age five, including, but not limited to:
Head Start experts say the proposed changes would weaken the quality of Head Starts services and undermine early childhood education. Currently, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which runs Head Start programs, is holding a 60-day comment period for its proposed rule. An initial analysis based on HHS data estimate that nationally, the proposed rule means that nearly 40,000 Head Start jobs could be cut, Head Start staff could experience a 6-9% pay cut even while being expected to care for up to 32% more children, and healthcare services for children and families could be reduced by up to $167 million annually.
The senator announced he will continue to lead Senate Democrats in the fight to stand up against the proposed changes to Head Start, programs that serve approximately 40,000 children in New York and over 685,000 children nationally every year. The senator said maintaining high-quality standards for Head Start programs is essential for the success of kids in New York and across the country. Schumer’s leadership has garnered the support of providers serving children across Upstate New York.
In the Capital Region, there are concerns that the federal requirements could create inconsistent quality and protections across Head Start programs, resulting in different implementation standards. The Fulmont Head Start Program, which is funded to serve 182 three- and four-year-old children every year, served 213 children and families last year.
"Head Start standards are not just paperwork or regulations—they are the promise that every child, no matter their ZIP code, deserves a strong start in life. We can reduce unnecessary bureaucracy without lowering the floor of quality that families depend on. That’s why this NPRM matters: the choices we make today will shape the quality, consistency, and access of Head Start for children and families for years to come. Thank you, Senator Schumer, for taking the time to focus on this important issue and for standing up for the children, families, and communities who rely on Head Start. Your leadership and willingness to engage on this issue truly matter. We appreciate your commitment to making sure that every child has the opportunity for a strong start," said Denis Wilson, Sr., Executive Director/CEO of Fulmont Community Action Agency.
In Western New York, federal funding reductions have already resulted in cuts, including the loss of jobs and available Head Start slots.
“Community Action Organization of WNY’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs are far more than childcare; they are a comprehensive system of education, health, mental health, nutrition, disability, workforce, and family-stability services. CAO serves more than 1,000 children and families in Erie and Niagara counties. The proposed federal cuts and the removal of key Head Start requirements would significantly weaken our program quality, reduce safety and eliminate the individualized comprehensive support services, which are all the hallmark of Head Start. Head Start programs are a proven community investment that strengthens children, families, and the local workforce while promoting long-term stability. Almost 200 slots for children with disabilities would be eliminated. If enacted, cuts will absolutely force us to lay off staff, close classrooms and sites, thereby decreasing access to early childhood education in communities already facing childcare shortages. These proposed cuts are simply unconscionable: they are harmful to children, families, and communities. CAO of WNY is grateful for the continued leadership of Senator Schumer in advocating on the behalf of Head Start and the children, families and communities they serve,” said Dr. Marie Cannon, President and CEO of Community Action Organization of Western New York.
"Head Start is far more than a preschool program. It provides children and families with comprehensive services that support school readiness, health, nutrition, developmental screenings, and family stability. At Community Action of Orleans & Genesee, we see every day how these services change lives and strengthen communities. While there is significant discussion about increasing Head Start enrollment, policymakers must recognize the realities facing families in states like New York. A parent working full-time at New York's minimum wage can earn above the federal poverty guidelines used to determine Head Start eligibility, even while struggling to afford housing, childcare, transportation, and basic necessities. If the goal is to serve more children, eligibility standards must better reflect the true cost of living families face today. At the same time, proposals that weaken quality standards and drastically reduce allowable administrative costs would undermine the very elements that make Head Start effective. Our agency is already grappling with a federally imposed $912,000 Head Start funding reduction that has forced painful cuts, including the loss of valued employees. It also reduced our available Head Start slots from 244 to 194. Further weakening the program through the proposed rule would jeopardize services for vulnerable children and families across rural communities like ours. We are grateful to Senator Schumer for his continued leadership in protecting Head Start and advocating for policies that strengthen, rather than diminish, opportunities for children and families,” said Renee M. Hungerford, Executive Director/CEO, Community Action of Orleans & Genesee.
In Rochester, there are concerns that changes could compromise program quality and the well-being of families. Last year, Action for a Better Community enrolled 624 children in Head Start and Early Head Start programs.
“As CEO of Action for a Better Community, I am in agreement with Senator Schumer and all other elected officials who oppose the proposed Head Start rule changes. Increasing class sizes, lowering teacher qualification standards, eliminating funding for essential medical screenings, and slashing allowable administrative costs from 15% to 5% would weaken a program that is foundational to children and families in Rochester. The current performance standards should be the floor for improvement, not the ceiling. We fully support strengthening Head Start, but never at the expense of program quality or the well being of the children and families we serve,” said Jerome H. Underwood, CCAP, President & CEO, Action for a Better Community.
In Central New York, Head Start providers from Syracuse to Cortland are speaking out about the damage this proposed rule could inflict on everything from program operations, outcomes, and financial viability to the health, safety, and well-being of vulnerable children and families in local communities. Last year, the People’s Equal Action and Community Effort (PEACE) and the Cortland County Community Action Program (CAPCO) collectively served more than 1,000 Head Start and Early Head Start children and families across the region.
“Like others, we have been closely following the proposed adjustments to Head Start Program Performance Standards. Our core criterion for evaluating reforms that streamline administrative processes is that fewer rules cannot mean fewer results. Head Start makes the same promise to every family: that their child will be safe, healthy, and ready for school - wherever they live. All reforms must align with that promise. Regulatory changes that affect performance standards or administrative expenses must not impede PEACE, Inc.'s ability to serve more than 918 Head Start children and families in the Central New York region. We appreciate Senator Schumer’s advocacy for Head Start, its mission, and its communities,” said Carolyn D. Brown, Executive Director, People’s Equal Action and Community Effort, Inc.
“CAPCO stands firmly with Senator Schumer and our fellow Head Start agencies across NY State in opposition to the proposed Reducing Federal Burden for Head Start Programs rule. A core strength of Head Start is that children and families, regardless of geography, are guaranteed access to a comprehensive and evidence-based model that addresses school readiness, health, nutrition, disabilities, and family well-being. If adopted, the proposed rule would significantly weaken federal standards that have long ensured consistent, high-quality Head Start and Early Head Start services nationwide, and that have long operated as essential safeguards for child health and safety, educational quality, and family support in Cortland County and across Central NY. Equally concerning, the proposed 5% administrative cost limit is unrealistically low for most, if not all, Head Start and Early Head Start grantees, including CAPCO. Imposing such a restrictive cap would force grantees to divert resources away from program governance, fiscal oversight, enrollment management, data systems, audit and reporting obligations, and other key infrastructure needed to operate high-quality Head Start programs. Rather than strengthening local programs, this approach would gradually erode agencies operational capacity, make compliance with federal requirements financially unsustainable for many, and ultimately risk dismantling the Head Start system through financial attrition. CAPCO is grateful to Senator Schumer for stepping up to fight for Head Start providers like us, and we join him in urging the Administration to preserve the strong federal performance standards that vulnerable children and families in our community depend upon,” said Greg Richards, Executive Director, Cortland County Community Action Program, Inc.
In the Southern Tier, there are increasing concerns that the proposed changes may create unintended consequences for program quality, fiscal stability, workforce capacity, child and family access, and accountability. Last year, Pro Action of Steuben and Yates, Inc. enrolled 340 children and Opportunities for Otsego enrolled 229 children in Head Start programs.
“Head Start is not simply a program—it is a promise to children and families that opportunity should not depend on income, geography, or circumstance. At Pro Action of Steuben and Yates, we see every day how Head Start and Early Head Start provide far more than early learning. These programs support school readiness, health and developmental screenings, nutrition, family engagement, and the stability parents need to work, learn, and build a stronger future for their children. While we support efforts to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy, that cannot come at the expense of the quality, safety, and comprehensive services that make Head Start effective. Proposals that increase class sizes, weaken staff qualification standards, reduce access to essential screenings and supports, or drastically limit allowable administrative costs would place significant strain on programs—especially in rural communities where families already face barriers related to transportation, workforce shortages, housing, and access to care. The current Head Start Program Performance Standards should be strengthened as a floor for quality, not lowered in a way that puts children and families at risk. We are grateful to Senator Schumer for his leadership, for listening to providers and families, and for standing up for the children, families, and communities who rely on Head Start. His willingness to engage on this issue matters deeply, and we appreciate his commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity for a strong start,” said Laura Rossman, CEO / Executive Director of Pro Action of Steuben and Yates, Inc.
“While Opportunities for Otsego supports efforts to reduce burdensome and duplicative regulations, it cannot come at the expense of providing quality early childhood education programming for the children and families we serve. The proposed Head Start Performance Standard revisions undermine the core components of comprehensive services that are the foundation of Head Start. The change in the allowable administrative costs, elimination of imperative dental and health requirements, lower teacher ratios coupled with increased class size, and changes to staff qualifications will significantly impact staff retention and the quality of services that we currently offer. The reality is that we transport families over 1.5 hours to get dental services due to lack of providers in our area, get children back on track with their immunization schedules, provide two thirds of a child’s nutrition while in program, provide necessary transportation to access services in our rural county, make referrals for early intervention services and work closely with school districts to transition those services when they enter kindergarten all while providing education with evidence based curriculum that is cross walked with the New York State education system. We are charged with serving the most vulnerable populations in a fiscally responsible and data driven way and the proposed revisions will devastate our ability to employ quality staff, continue to support families holistically, and will certainly impact outcomes of this valuable program that assists families and fosters success by giving them a head start. We applaud Senator Schumer’s efforts on this issue,” said Tanya Shalor, Chief Executive Officer of Opportunities for Otsego.
In the Hudson Valley, there are concerns about larger class sizes, reducing staff qualification standards, and providing less federal support. Head Start of Rockland County services more than 1,000 children and families and aims to ensure they can continue delivering the support needed to help children in the community.
“Head Start of Rockland, Inc. is deeply concerned about proposed changes to the Head Start Program Performance Standards including larger class sizes, reduced staff qualification standards, and a smaller administrative cap. The more than 1,000 children in Rockland County we serve should not receive a lesser standard of education, care, health, or safety because federal requirements change. We should be strengthening the standard for the next generation by investing in the systems, professionals, and services necessary to help children thrive—not lowering the expectations that will shape our communities and our nation for generations to come,” said Vernex Harding, Executive Director of the Head Start of Rockland.
Schumer has long led the fight to protect Head Start in New York State. In the FY24 budget, when the Democrats held the Senate and as the then-Senate Majority Leader, Schumer secured a $275 million increase for Head Start, totaling $12.3 billion for Head Start. Earlier in the Trump administration, Schumer fought to ensure Head Start programs would receive payments amid the federal funding freeze so they could continue their essential services in rural and underserved communities. Schumer has also fought against the Trump administration’s efforts to eliminate Head Start altogether, illegally withhold the nearly $1 billion in federal funding for Head Start, and the decision to shutter the Region 2 Head Start Office serving more than 100,000 children and families across New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Additionally, Schumer secured an $85 million increase for Head Start, totaling $12.357 billion, in the most recent FY26 federal budget.
SCHUMER ANNOUNCES JOB CORPS CENTERS TO REMAIN OPEN AFTER TRUMP ADMINISTRATION FULLY RESCINDS PLAN TO CLOSE ONE OF AMERICA’S LARGEST JOB TRAINING PROGRAMS | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York
Position: Schumer opposed the Trump administration's plan to eliminate Job Corps centers and advocated for their continued operation. The administration has now rescinded its closure plan following Schumer's advocacy.
After Trump Attempted To Eliminate Job Corps Program, Schumer Announces Trump Admin Formally Backs Off Plan To Shut Down America’s 99 Job Corps Centers That Provide Workforce Training For Tens of Thousands of Americans Each Year
Five Job Corps Centers In Upstate NY – Located In Albany, Sullivan, Orleans, Oneonta & Chautauqua – Help Workers Get Skills Needed To Access Careers In Healthcare, Construction, Manufacturing, And Other Fields
Schumer: A Win-Win-Win For Students, Small Businesses, & Upstate Communities
After Schumer stood at Job Corps centers across Upstate NY to lead the fight to protect one of the nation’s largest and most effective workforce training programs from Trump’s effort to eliminate it, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer announced the Trump administration has officially rescinded its plan to shut down America’s 99 Job Corps centers.
A new federal settlement agreement between Job Corps and the Trump administration includes protections against the closing of Job Corps campuses and stopping of operations, among other provisions. Schumer explained that the Job Corps centers and programming help train tens of thousands of students across America each year, including thousands in New York, providing them with the skills they need to enter in-demand fields.
“When the Trump administration announced that Job Corps was going to be eliminated, I got to work to protect it—traveling across Upstate New York to stand shoulder to shoulder with students, staff, and small businesses that have seen firsthand the benefits of this program. Today, I’m proud to announce that the administration has officially backed off its ill-conceived plan to close one of America’s largest workforce training programs,” said Senator Schumer. “Saving Job Corps is a win-win-win because students get the skills they need to get a good job, small businesses get the trained workforce they need to grow, and Upstate communities get a boost to their economies. Job Corps is about more than training. It’s about giving people across Upstate New York a pathway to a good-paying career, strengthening local communities, and building the healthcare, construction, and manufacturing workforce that will keep our state strong. And I’ll always fight to protect it.”
After hearing about Trump’s proposed cuts, Schumer traveled to Job Corps centers across Upstate New York, from the Iroquois Job Corps center in Orleans County to the Cassadaga Job Corps center in Chautauqua County and the Oneonta Job Corps Center in Otsego County, to stand with students, staff, and small business owners and demand we protect this vital pipeline for skilled workers to fill jobs. Earlier this year, the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education funding bill rejected Trump’s call to eliminate Job Corps and instead provides $1.76 billion in federal funding to keep them open. Schumer also secured language that blocks the closure of Job Corps centers unless such closures meet specific requirements.
In May 2025, Trump paused operations at Job Corps centers nationwide. Afterward, a federal judge temporarily blocked Trump from shutting down Job Corps centers, and another federal judge said operations must resume until the previous case is resolved. Schumer explained that the Trump administration not only attempted to shut down Job Corps centers, but in his budget request, Trump said he wanted to totally zero out funding for the program, effectively killing the program without needing the approval of federal courts.
In addition to fighting back on Trump’s proposed elimination of funds for Job Corps in the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bill, Schumer led efforts in the Senate to oppose the Trump administration’s destructive and potentially illegal actions like pausing existing funds for the Job Corps centers. Schumer called on U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer to protect Job Corps and demanded answers on these destructive efforts. Due to Schumer’s leadership, the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education funding bill rejected Trump’s call to eliminate Job Corps and instead provides $1.76 billion in federal funding—consistent with the previous year—to keep them open and includes language to protect against efforts to illegally shut down specific centers.
Schumer said Job Corps centers have helped millions of young people ages 16 to 24 finish high school, learn technical skills, and get jobs in in-demand fields such as healthcare and construction. Low-income and at-risk young people have received stable housing and healthcare while developing the skills they need to get good-paying jobs after graduation. Across Upstate NY, centers in Albany, Sullivan, Orleans, Otsego, and Chautauqua Counties serve thousands of young New Yorkers and employ over 500 staff. To learn more about Job Corps, visit https://www.jobcorps.gov, or to apply, visit https://enroll.jobcorps.gov.
AFTER HIS ADVOCACY, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES TOWN OF PLATTSBURGH ADDED TO LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM—OPENING UP NEW FEDERAL FUNDING TO ADDRESS CRUMBLING INFRASTRUCTURE AT FORMER AIR FORCE BASE—AND LAUNCHES PUSH TO REAUTHORIZE PROGRAM | U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer of New York
Position: Senator Schumer secured federal funding for the Town of Plattsburgh through the Lake Champlain Basin Program to address crumbling infrastructure at a former Air Force Base, and he is advocating for reauthorization of the program in upcoming legislation.
Town Of Plattsburgh To Receive Fed Support After Schumer Brought US Army Corps Of Engineers To Meet With Town About How To Deal With Critical Infrastructure Left From The Former Air Force Base
Following Schumer’s Advocacy, Town of Plattsburgh Added To Lake Champlain Basin Program Unlocking Critical Opportunities For Inventorying And Remediation Funding; Senator Vows To Fight To Reauthorize Critical Program In Upcoming Bill
Schumer: Investing In Lake Champlain Conservation Program Is A WIN – WIN That Will Help Protect Both The Lake And Town Residents
Following his advocacy, U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer today announced that the Town of Plattsburgh has been added to the Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP), which unlocked new federal funding opportunities that will help the Town fix crumbling infrastructure at the former Air Force Base.
Schumer previously secured a meeting between Town of Plattsburgh officials and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to assess the condition and scope of the base’s Cold War-era infrastructure. Schumer said that meeting directly led to the Town’s inclusion in the LCBP that will help the Town secure necessary federal investment to inventory and begin to address the outdated infrastructure. Schumer also launched his push to reauthorize the critical federal program that supports Lake Champlain and its surrounding area.
“For decades, Plattsburgh Air Force Base played a vital role in protecting our country during the Cold War. Now, with Plattsburgh International Airport, it continues its service to the North Country as a travel hub for Northern New Yorkers. However, its Cold War-era infrastructure is falling apart, creating sinkholes and sending unwanted sediments into Lake Champlain, and locals are concerned the next storm could bring more damage,” said Senator Schumer. “That’s why I was proud to ensure the Town of Plattsburgh was added to the Lake Champlain Basin Program so we can unlock new federal funding to assess and inventory the infrastructure and provide a funding source for future remediation of the crumbling drainage system. As Congress begins to work on our next water funding bill, I am thinking of the Town of Plattsburgh as I fight to reauthorize this vital program for the Lake Champlain region.”
Plattsburgh Air Force Base closed three decades ago, and much of the infrastructure was installed when the base was built in the mid-1950s. When the base closed, the town had concerns that the infrastructure built by the Air Force may not be up to current standards. Since then, pipes that were designed to drain water away from the flight line are collapsing due to heavy rains, creating sinkholes, sending unwanted and likely contaminated sediments into Lake Champlain, and creating concern that more damage could be coming.
“A town of our size could easily be overwhelmed by a project of this magnitude. We would never have the financial resources to begin studying the problem, let alone start the actual construction process to rehabilitate the failing infrastructure left behind when the Airbase closed. We are deeply appreciative of the connections that Senator Schumer has made on our behalf. His involvement in the process has been invaluable and is a testament to his commitment to the North Country. The importance of this project to the continued economic development of the former Plattsburgh Air Force Base cannot be overstated. This is a project with a generational impact that will ensure a sustainable future for an extremely vital portion of the Town of Plattsburgh,” said Supervisor Chuck Kostyk, Town of Plattsburgh.
Last year, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer secured a meeting in Plattsburgh between Town officials and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding the former Air Force Base. Michael Cashman, then serving as Town Supervisor, had asked Schumer for assistance in assessing the condition and scope of the Cold War-era infrastructure, and the senator worked for weeks to help get the USACE to agree to send out a team of engineers to see the site, now operating commercial flights as Plattsburgh International Airport, firsthand and provide technical expertise as the town evaluates next steps. The Army Corps, with Schumer’s support, then helped ensure the Town of Plattsburgh’s inclusion in the LCBP to unlock federal funding opportunities to conduct a $650,000 study to assess and inventory the infrastructure and potentially remediate the problem. The LCBP and its Lake Champlain Watershed Environmental Assistance Program support New York and Vermont’s efforts to improve Lake Champlain’s water quality, support wildlife habitat, and enhance the environment throughout the lake’s watershed.
Schumer has a long history of supporting the LCBP. Schumer has cosponsored numerous bills to support the foundation, growth, and continued funding of the LCBP. Apart from fighting to secure the program funding through annual appropriations bills, Schumer also secured an additional $40 million in funding as part of his Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. Back in 2024, under Schumer’s leadership in the Senate, economically disadvantaged communities like Plattsburgh only have to provide a 10% local cost share, down from the previous level of 35%. This year, he proudly cosponsored the LCBP Enhancements Act of 2026, which would reauthorize the program and maintain its funding through 2032, improve oversight of the program’s fiscal agent to ensure funds are administered in a timely and proper manner, and formally authorize the partnership between the LCBP and the Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC), allowing for greater support for Lake Champlain. Additionally, Schumer is pushing to increase funding for LCBP through the Fiscal Year 2027 Interior Appropriations bill. This funding is critical to restore, protect, and prevent pollution of the Lake Champlain ecosystem and also to plan responses for climate-related disasters. Schumer today launched his push to reauthorize the LCBP in the upcoming bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), so the program can continue its mission while working with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to make its grants more accessible to the local communities and dedicated partners on the shore like the Town of Plattsburgh.
Schumer has delivered many millions of dollars in federal funding to support Plattsburgh, Clinton County, and the Plattsburgh Airport. Through the American Rescue Plan, Schumer delivered millions of dollars in federal funding to help Clinton County recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, including $15.61 million for Clinton County, $2.14 million for the City of Plattsburgh, and $1.31 million for the Town of Plattsburgh. Schumer has delivered millions of dollars for Plattsburgh International Airport, including $184,000 from the Airport Improvement Program just last year, $1.4 million from the Airport Improvement Program in 2024, and nearly $6 million for various projects through the Airport Improvement Grant program. Schumer earlier this year also successfully increased funding for the vital Essential Air Service program Plattsburgh International Airport relies on, providing $514 million for the EAS program – a nearly 15% increase from last year, rejecting President Trump’s proposal to cut the program by 50% and preventing the Department of Transportation from haphazardly terminating any EAS contracts.
Source: GDELT 2.0 GKG, filtered to a curated list of national outlets. Inclusion is not endorsement; opinion pieces and reported news are mixed.
Recent stock activity
Periodic transaction reports filed under the STOCK Act — disclosed by the rep, sourced from public filings.
No disclosed trades on record.
Source: open-data mirrors of the Senate eFD and House Clerk financial-disclosure systems. Disclosure within 30 days of trade is required by law (45 for spouse/dependent trades).
Top PAC donors · 2026 cycle
Political action committees that gave the most to this rep's principal campaign committee this cycle. PAC giving is direct organizational support — industry, ideological, or leadership.
1.HUMANA INC. PAC2 contributions$10,000
2.THE PROCTER & GAMBLE CO. GOOD GOVERNMENT FUND3 contributions$7,500
3.TRANSPORT WORKERS UNION POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS COMMITTEE1 contribution$5,000
4.INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIREFIGHTERS INTERESTED IN REGISTRATION AND EDUCATION PACPublic Sector1 contributionPublic-sector employee PAC affiliated with the International Association of Firefighters — backs candidates supporting firefighter workplace protections, benefits, and federal fire-service funding.AI$5,000
5.CENCORA, INC. PAC1 contribution$5,000
6.BEYOND FINANCE EMPLOYEE PAC1 contribution$5,000
7.MOLINA HEALTHCARE, INC. PAC1 contribution$5,000
8.ELI LILLY AND COMPANY POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE1 contribution$5,000
9.AMERICAN POSTAL WORKERS UNION COMMITTEE ON POLITICAL ACTION1 contribution$5,000
10.OFFICE AND PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION (OPEIU) JB MOSS VOICE OF THE ELECTORATE (VOTE)1 contribution$5,000
Source: OpenFEC (api.open.fec.gov) Schedule A receipts where contributor type is “committee.” Aggregated by contributing committee. Self-transfers from joint-fundraising / victory committees are excluded.
Top individual contributors · 2026 cycle
Itemized individual contributions over $200 to this rep's campaign committee, aggregated by donor employer. PAC giving is shown above; this section is people, not organizations.
1.ROBLOX$7,000
2.CAHILL GORDON & REINDEL LLP$7,000
3.NASDSAQ$7,000
4.RIPPLE$6,600
5.MOHAWK AMBULANCE$5,000
6.THEGROUP$5,000
7.NEW YORK STATE BROADCASTERS ASSOC.$5,000
8.HOSPITAL FOR SPECIAL SURGERY$5,000
9.MILES BRUNDAGE$3,500
10.THE CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK$3,205
Source: OpenFEC Schedule A receipts where contributor type is “individual,” aggregated by the donor's self-reported employer. This is a geographic / industry correlation, not a corporate endorsement.
