Dan Sullivan

Murkowski, Sullivan, Begich Introduce Legislation to Convey Culturally Significant Site to Doyon, Limited | U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) today introduced legislation in the U.S. Senate and Congressman Nick Begich (R-Alaska) is introducing companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives to convey the Geese House Site from the National Park Service to Doyon, Limited. The bill would transfer ownership to Doyon, Limited, to ensure that the culturally significant site is managed by and for the Alaska Native Athabascan people. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) is co-sponsoring the legislation. “The Geese House Site is owed to Doyon, Limited under the commitments made in ANCSA—which enabled the conveyance of culturally significant sites to Alaska Native Corporations,” said Sen. Murkowski. “This legislation fulfills that promise by completing a long-outstanding conveyance to Doyon to ensure this important cultural site is properly stewarded.” “For decades, Doyon worked to resolve the status of the Geese House Site, an area of great cultural and spiritual significance to the Athabascan people,” Sen. Sullivan said. “Conveying these acres corrects an oversight by the federal government to complete an ANCSA land conveyance that was specifically selected by Doyon nearly 50 years ago. I want to thank Senator Murkowski and Congressman Begich for working with me on this legislation to fulfill our obligations under ANCSA and to return these lands to Alaska Native stewardship, where they can be managed with the care, knowledge, and respect they deserve for generations to come.” “This legislation is a commonsense step to fulfill the intent of ANCSA by completing an important outstanding land conveyance to Doyon,” said Congressman Begich. “The Geese House Site was selected decades ago but was never transferred, and current law requires congressional action to finalize the matter. This bill ensures the land is conveyed and managed in a way that protects its historical significance and honors the federal commitment of ANCSA.” “The Geese House is one of the most important cultural and spiritual sites in all of the Doyon Region,” said Aaron Schutt, Doyon’s President and CEO. “We have obligations to both our ancestors and our future generations to bring this site back into Native ownership and stewardship. We appreciate Senator Murkowski and Congressman Begich’s work introducing the legislation and Senator Sullivan for co-sponsoring.” Following the passage of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), Doyon, Limited worked with Alaska Native Elders to identify culturally significant sites eligible for conveyance under the Act. One such site is Geese House, a place of longstanding importance in the oral traditions of Northern Athabascan peoples. Doyon formally selected the site for conveyance in 1978; however, the conveyance was never completed. In 1980, the site was incorporated into the Denali National Park and Preserve through the enactment of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) which established the national park. In recent years, Doyon, Limited sought to complete the conveyance of the Geese House site through an administrative conveyance process with the National Park Service (NPS). However, the NPS determined that existing law does not provide sufficient authority to transfer the site administratively and that legislation is required. This bill would accomplish the conveyance of the Geese House site to Doyon and ensure its stewardship and access for generations to come.

Delegation Secures Federal Funding for Ports Across Alaska | U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska

Washington, DC—U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan and Congressman Nick Begich (all R-Alaska) today touted more than $115.4 million in federal funding they helped secure for ports across Alaska. Seven projects that the delegation advocated for were selected through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP), which Congress created in 2010 and provided substantial multi-year funding for in 2021. “I am proud to have worked with my partners in the delegation who helped bring this robust funding to Alaska. From including the necessary resources in legislation to submitting joint letters of support to the department highlighting the benefits these grants will bring our ports, we worked as a team to deliver critical investments for our state,” said U.S. Senator Murkowski. “These investments will help revitalize Alaska’s ports, enhancing our ability to bring our natural resources to market and ensure a secure supply chain for everything from bulk fuel to groceries.” “Today’s $115.4 million in Port Infrastructure Development Program grants for Alaska communities underscores the importance of ensuring federal infrastructure programs work for every part of our country—not just the Lower 48,” said U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan. “These investments were made possible in part by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and by key reforms we secured in FY23 National Defense Authorization Act, including my provision permanently waiving MARAD’s cost-benefit analysis requirement for port projects in noncontiguous states. We also ensured MARAD can properly account for Alaska’s geographic isolation and the economic reliance of our communities on port infrastructure. Those changes have helped level the playing field so Alaska communities can fairly compete for critical investments like these through the national Port Infrastructure Development Program. I also want to thank Transportation Secretary Duffy and MARAD Administrator Carmel for their strong advocacy for Alaska’s port needs and the well-being of our coastal communities.” “Major infrastructure investments are coming directly to Alaska,” said Congressman Begich. “As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I’ve fought to ensure Alaska’s unique needs are front and center. This funding strengthens economic growth and delivers important improvements for Alaska’s communities. These projects will modernize critical infrastructure, improve freight mobility, and ensure that Alaska is competitive and prepared as we prepare for economic growth in Alaska.” The PIDP is a competitive grant initiative run by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration that funds projects aimed at strengthening the safety, efficiency, and reliability of goods moving through U.S. ports. It supports both planning and construction efforts in urban and rural communities, while reserving funding for smaller ports to help expand capacity and accommodate growing freight demand. Alaska has more ocean coastline than all other U.S. states combined, and the delegation has focused on ensuring that this program serves the ports that every community in the state relies upon. These projects were funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which provided $2.25 billion for PIDP over five years, and annual appropriations from Congress. The delegation also wrote joint letters of support for the projects. The projects and their descriptions can be found below: ARRC Port of Whittier Operational Efficiency Project Upgrade the railroad tunnel that connects the Port of Whittier to the ARRC mainline track. Expand tunnel clearance to permit double stack container operations and purchase 30 railcars for the container service to allow double stacking of containers. Petroleum Terminal Replacement Planning Project Engineering studies and design to replace the existing petroleum terminal Port of Skagway Industrial Dock Redevelopment Project Fund the permitting and construction of an Industrial Dock with an integrated Fuel Header, a removable Roll-on/Roll-off freight transfer ramp, and power for tugboats. The project will also include demolition and removal of creosote treated timber docks, old fuel lines and headers, and partial demolition of a mining ore conveyor building along with other utilities and civil upgrades in the area. State of Alaska Department of Transportation Port Mackenzie Multimodal Port Expansion Fund construction of a 110-acre cargo laydown area, completion of a rail spur and rail loop, barge dock and heavy lift improvements, warehouse construction, utilities, communication, lighting, security, and engineering and design. Cev’aq River Marine Barge Landing Facility Advance the planning and design for a barge landing facility in the rural town of Chevak, Alaska. This grant will fund a feasibility study and preliminary design of at least 35%. It will also fund completion of NEPA. Homer Port Coastal Freight Project Fund permitting and replacement of a float system at the Port of Homer. Planning and Design of the Delong Dock Replacement Project Design, permitting, and final plans for a port facility that would replace existing, dilapidated infrastructure in Whittier, Alaska.

Two More Icebreakers Coming to Alaska | U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan and Lisa Murkowski, and Congressman Nick Begich (all R-Alaska), today welcomed an official announcement from the Coast Guard that two additional icebreakers will be homeported in Alaska. The announcement comes after Admiral Kevin Lunday, commandant of the Coast Guard, testified to Sen. Sullivan that the agency was considering homeporting in Alaska up to four of the eleven Arctic Security Cutters (icebreakers) announced as part of the U.S.–Finland Icebreaker Agreement and the ICE Pact. Funding to build up to three icebreakers was secured by the Alaska congressional delegation in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act (WFTCA), signed into law on July 4, 2025. “Our leaders have talked for years about the national security imperative of closing America’s icebreaking gap with our adversaries and homeporting icebreakers where the ice is—which is Alaska. But we’re not just talking about these priorities anymore. We’re getting them done,” said Sen. Sullivan. “We now have at least three ice breakers being homeported in our state. I am honored to have led this effort which will bring enhanced national security and good paying jobs to our state. This announcement is the culmination of years of relentless advocacy I have put into homeporting icebreakers in Alaska. As chair of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee overseeing the Coast Guard, I have held hearings and countless meetings with every top federal official, from the President on down, on the necessity of rebuilding America’s polar icebreaking capacity. The historic provisions we secured in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act make this a reality. The dictators in Russia and China certainly recognize the importance of the Arctic and North Pacific, which is why we’re seeing escalating incursions near Alaska’s airspace and waters, including unprecedented joint operations. We are finally making the serious investments and decisions needed to build up our forces in America’s most strategic state to defend our interests in this vital region. These investments, including the announcement today, are not only good for our national security, they’re also great news for Alaska’s economy, hard-working families, and coastal communities. What an exciting day for Alaskans and for the whole country!” “Since my first days in Washington, I have been sounding the alarm about the need to recapitalize and expand our fleet of icebreakers. It feels good to say that we are finally beginning to realize that goal,” said Sen. Murkowski. “Today, with the announcement that the first two Arctic Security Cutters will be homeported in Alaska it is becoming real. This news marks a turning point in America’s investment in the Arctic and will allow us to reassert our influence in the region—enhancing maritime commerce, strengthening cooperation with our allies, increasing deterrence against our adversaries, and ensuring our military can respond to emergencies in any environment. I want to commend President Donald Trump for his commitment to these critical assets. When he came into office in 2016, one of my first conversations with him focused on the importance of investing in our infrastructure so we could compete in the Arctic in the 21st century. He listened and came through on his commitment to expanding our icebreaker capacity, and I appreciate his continued dedication to this issue. The work is just beginning. As we move to designate Alaska’s new homeport locations, ensuring these ASCs are ready to serve will require significant shoreside infrastructure with new housing to support both the vessels and the influx of personnel. While there is a long road ahead, this announcement means new investment, new jobs, and new opportunities flowing into our communities. Today is a good day for America, a good day for the Arctic, and a good day for Alaska.” “Homeporting two new Arctic Security Cutters in Alaska will strengthen America’s position in an increasingly strategic and contested Arctic,” said Congressman Begich. “These new vessels will expand our operational reach and ensure the United States can respond quickly and effectively across the Arctic domain. Alaska is the nation’s Arctic gateway, and our location makes us indispensable to national security. As global competition intensifies in the Arctic, we cannot afford to fall behind in a region that will shape the future of maritime access and defense. This is exactly why we fought for historic investments in the Coast Guard, because readiness in the Arctic requires modern assets and a sustained presence.” The first and only icebreaker ever homeported in Alaska, the Coast Guard Cutter Storis, was commissioned in Juneau on August 10, 2025, after years of work by the Alaska congressional delegation. Below is an overview of the delegation’s work to bring more Coast Guard assets, personnel, vessels, infrastructure and investments to Alaska. Securing U.S. Coast Guard Construction and Infrastructure Funding for Alaska Installations: Since 2015, Congress has appropriated about $1.408 billion for infrastructure and construction-related projects in Alaska to support new and existing Coast Guard assets, giving many communities throughout Alaska significant investments in their infrastructure and local housing. Securing Historic Investments in America’s Icebreaker Fleet: Through the FY 2025 budget reconciliation bill, the Alaska congressional delegation secured $4.3 billion for the procurement of two new Polar Security Cutters, with substantial progress toward a third, marking the most significant expansion of heavy icebreaking capability in U.S. history. The delegation also worked to deliver $3.5 billion to procure three Arctic Security Cutters, the nation’s next-generation medium polar icebreakers. Additionally, they championed $816 million for more than ten new light and medium domestic icebreaking cutters. Beyond icebreakers, the WFTCA included major investments across the Coast Guard’s fleet: $1 billion for approximately 10 Fast Response Cutters (FRC), $4.3 billion for approximately 9 Offshore Patrol Cutters (OPC), $2.2 billion for approximately 40 MH-60 helicopters, and $1.1 billion for approximately 6 HC-130 aircraft. Critically, these efforts are backed by over $3 billion for shoreside infrastructure to support the homeporting of these assets, including the $300 million for the homeporting of the Storis in Juneau.

Sullivan Celebrates New USDA Office of Seafood, Increased Federal Support for Alaska Fishermen | U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) today joined Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) to announce the creation of a new USDA Office of Seafood. The office will expand federal support for America’s fishermen and seafood harvesters, and ensure fishermen, small businesses, and coastal communities have greater access to USDA programs. Sen. Sullivan has long advocated for greater attention and resources from USDA for America’s fishermen, including proposing the establishment of such an office at USDA in his National Seafood Supply Act, introduced in 2023. “Alaska’s fishermen deserve the same federal attention, resources, and risk management tools afforded to America’s incredible farmers,” said Sen. Sullivan. “The new USDA Office of Seafood—an action I’ve been strongly advocating for over the past decade—opens the door to that opportunity. This office is going to benefit everybody: all of Alaska’s fishermen, our small businesses, and our many coastal and Interior communities from across the state. I thank Secretary Rollins and Secretary Lutnick for working closely with me and my team over the past year to fully understand the challenges facing our fishermen and coastal communities and for taking meaningful action on their behalf. With this new office, we’re going to build a stronger partnership between USDA, Department of Commerce, the entire Executive Branch, and our fishermen, so they can continue to do what they do best: sustainably harvesting the freshest and healthiest wild seafood in the world.” “Creating an office of seafood at USDA will provide small boat coastal fishermen like me with the resources we need to build successful businesses resilient to market and resource challenges,” said Linda Behnken, executive director of the Alaska Longline Fishermen's Association (ALFA). “This is a game changer for our fleet.” "AMCC welcomes the creation of an Office of Seafood at USDA,” said Michelle Stratton, executive director of the Alaska Marine Community Coalition. “Expanding USDA’s support for the seafood sector is an important step toward providing small-boat fishermen, seafood producers, and coastal communities with the tools and resources that have long helped strengthen America’s other food producers. That added support will help stabilize markets, strengthen local economies, and build resilience for the communities that depend on seafood. All of this provides critical value to the nation – through food security, nutrition, and strong coastal economies.” “On behalf of the Central Bering Sea Fishermen’s Association, we strongly support the establishment of a dedicated Office of Seafood at USDA,” said Ray Melovidov, president of the Central Bering Sea Fishermen’s Association. “We also wanted to express our gratitude to Senator Sullivan and other members of Congress for this initiative which represents an important step toward ensuring that America’s seafood sector—particularly remote and highly dependent fishing communities like Saint Paul Island—has a stronger voice in federal policymaking. A coordinated federal approach to seafood will help improve market access for our products abroad, increase domestic consumption, strengthen supply chains, and better support fishermen, processors, and coastal communities across Alaska and the nation.” "Establishing an office of seafood within the USDA has been a collective vision of the U.S. seafood industry for many years,” said Jeremy Woodrow, executive director of the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute. “Just like our country's farmers, America's fishermen feed the world. Establishing this office will provide greater access to USDA programs and alignment with NOAA to ensure that our fishermen and seafood industry continues to thrive well into the future.” “Thank you to USDA for advancing the creation of the Office of Seafood, with strong support and leadership from Senator Sullivan,” said Sterling Prout, F/V Silver Spray, a 3rd generation Alaska crab fisherman from Kodiak, Alaska. “As a Bering Sea crab fisherman, I see how this will open the door for my family and other hard working American fishing families. This will lead to new opportunities for capital and resources for fishermen and help us enter and expand our markets to bring good American seafood to the tables across the world.” “I commend Senator Sullivan for his advocacy of the commercial fishing industry and his work on helping to create an Office of Seafood within USDA,” said Erik Velsko, founder of Kaia Seafoods. “As a recent recipient of USDA grant funding for quality enhancing equipment for our Alaskan-based fishing company, I believe having an Office of Seafood within USDA will ensure that US seafood has a seat at that table." Sen. Sullivan has been a leading advocate for elevating the role of fishermen and seafood harvesters within USDA.

Sullivan, Whitehouse Introduce Legislation to Help Blind Americans Return to Work | U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska

Position: Senators Sullivan and Whitehouse introduced legislation to reform the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) system by replacing the current earnings cliff with a gradual benefit phase-out, allowing blind Americans to earn more income without losing all benefits.

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) introduced the Blind Americans Return to Work Act, legislation that will modernize the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) system by removing barriers that discourage blind Americans from advancing in the workforce. Specifically, the legislation reforms SSDI by replacing the current “earnings cliff,” where beneficiaries lose all benefits if they exceed an income threshold, with a gradual phase-out. Under the bill, benefits are reduced by one dollar for every two dollars earned above the limit, allowing blind Americans to increase their earnings and pursue career advancement without risking an abrupt loss of support. “Alaskans understand the dignity of work, and we need to make sure that no Alaskan, including those with disabilities, are punished for hard work,” Sen. Sullivan said. “It goes without saying that blindness presents challenges that are often invisible to those of us who are sighted—but in Alaska, those challenges are magnified by our vast geography, limited infrastructure, and extreme weather. Living—and thriving—as a blind person in our state brings a distinct set of realities. Over the years I’ve had the privilege of meeting many inspiring blind Alaskans who are determined to work, contribute, and build meaningful careers. That’s why I’m working with Senator Whitehouse to introduce the Blind Americans Return to Work Act to remove barriers like the SSDI earnings cliff and ensure people aren’t penalized for pursuing opportunity but instead are supported as they strive to reach their full potential.” “Too often, valued employees with disabilities innocently slam into an SSDI benefit cliff with unintended consequences,” said Senator Whitehouse. “In Rhode Island and across the country, blind workers deserve the chance to pursue meaningful careers without risking their financial stability. I’m glad to join Senator Sullivan today in introducing a humane and commonsense bill to remove this earnings cliff and support blind workers.” “This bipartisan, common-sense reform, grounded in the lived experience and desire to work of blind and deafblind Americans, will enable many more of us to thrive in the workforce without the threat of losing financial security, truly leveling the playing field," said Mark Riccobono, President of the National Federation of the Blind. “We appreciate the collaborative leadership of Senators Sullivan and Whitehouse and their strong commitment to championing the rights and dignity of all Americans.”

Sullivan, Cantwell, Colleagues Seek to Reauthorize Sport Fish, Boating Trust Fund | U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, have introduced the Sport Fish Restoration, Recreational Boating Safety, and Wildlife Restoration Act of 2026 to reauthorize the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund (SFRBTF), set to expire on September 30, 2026, through 2031. The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). Established in 1950, the Trust Fund is a user-pay, public-benefit program that supports conservation programs, fisheries management and restoration, and recreational boating access and safety resources. The Trust Fund is funded primarily through excise taxes on motorboat fuel, small engines, and sportfishing equipment paid by recreational boaters, anglers, and manufacturers. “Alaska is home to the most incredible sport fishing opportunities anywhere on the planet,” said Sen. Sullivan. “Alaska residents and thousands of visitors from across the country and around the world flock to our rivers, lakes, and endless miles of coastline each year for the experience of a lifetime. The Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund helps ensure we continue to protect and sustain the world-class aquatic ecosystems that provide these experiences by supporting essential conservation, research, and management initiatives. Over the past five years alone, Alaska has received nearly $124 million—an average of more than $20 million annually—from the fund. I’m glad to introduce bipartisan legislation with my colleagues to reauthorize this important Trust Fund to provide access for anglers and help keep Alaska’s waters healthy for generations far into the future.” “Washington’s outdoor economy depends on healthy fisheries and safe waterways,” said Sen. Cantwell. “This bipartisan bill keeps more than $600 million flowing each year to support fish restoration, hatcheries, and boating safety. Recreational fishing supports thousands of jobs across our state—this reauthorization protects those jobs and keeps our communities strong.” Specifically, the Sport Fish Restoration, Recreational Boating Safety, and Wildlife Restoration Act of 2026 would: “The Kenai River Sportfishing Association strongly supports Senator Sullivan’s legislation to reauthorize the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund and update funding for Interstate Fisheries Commissions,” said Shannon Martin, executive director of the Kenai River Sportfishing Association. “These funds are critical for fisheries conservation, habitat restoration, boating access, and angler programs—supporting local economies and ensuring future generations can experience world-class sportfishing opportunities like those in Alaska.” “On behalf of the American Sportfishing Association, we thank Senators Cantwell and Sullivan for introducing the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund Reauthorization Act,” said Glenn Hughes, president and CEO of the American Sportfishing Association. “For 76 years, the sportfishing industry has proudly contributed to this program through the federal excise tax on fishing equipment, creating a powerful, self-sustaining model for conservation. These funds are critical to supporting state-led fisheries management, expanding public access, and maintaining healthy fish populations. Reauthorizing this program ensures that anglers and the broader outdoor recreation community can continue to rely on strong fisheries and accessible waters for generations to come.” “NMMA applauds Senators Sullivan and Cantwell for their bipartisan leadership in introducing legislation to reauthorize the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund,” said Clay Crabtree, interim vice president of public policy and government relations at the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). “For more than 75 years, this user-pay, public-benefit program has been the backbone of conservation and boating infrastructure in all 50 states, supporting access to our nation’s waterways and strengthening local economies. As lawmakers look to support America’s outdoor recreation future, reauthorizing and modernizing this program is essential to ensuring that boaters and anglers continue to have safe, reliable access to public waters while supporting the small businesses and manufacturers that power the uniquely American recreational boating industry.” “As the largest payers into the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund via the motor fuel tax, America’s boat owners appreciate the support of Congress in continuing this highly successful program,” said David Kennedy, BoatUS. “Boaters understand the value of keeping our waters accessible, safe, clean, and most importantly, fun. This is why BoatUS supports this legislation and applauds its sponsors.” “We applaud the Senate’s introduction of legislation to reauthorize the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, a critical step in ensuring resource continuity for state-led fisheries management,” said Paul Johansen, chief of the wildlife resources section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and president of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies. “Funded by excise taxes on sportfishing equipment and motorboat and small engine fuel use, the Fund apportionments to state fish and wildlife agencies support the state fisheries data collection, stocking, and habitat projects needed to conserve fish populations and provide quality recreational fishing opportunities for the public.” “Every time a recreational boater fills up before a day on the water, they are supporting the important work done by the SFRBTF, ultimately playing a role in the conservation and restoration of crucial habitat and improving access for recreational boaters,” said Matt Gruhn, president of the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas. “Clean waters, healthy fisheries, and access to both are critical to ensuring the recreational fishing and boating industry remains strong, and the work done by the SFRBTF continues to ensure that those priorities remain in check, further underscoring the importance of reauthorization. We cannot thank Senators Sullivan and Cantwell enough for their leadership in spearheading the reauthorization of this pivotal program.” “The Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, together with fishing license revenues, serves as the cornerstone of state-led fisheries conservation across the United States,” said Taylor Schmitz, senior vice president of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation. “This uniquely American model has proven extraordinarily effective in sustaining aquatic resources and providing critical access. We commend Senators Sullivan and Cantwell, along with the bill’s original cosponsors, for their leadership in advancing the reauthorization and long-term protection of this vital program for future generations.”

Sullivan Legislation to Increase Mental Health Awareness and Resources on Social Media Passes Senate | U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) celebrated the unanimous Senate passage of the Advancing Digital Support (ADS) for Mental Health Services Act, legislation to bring greater transparency to social media advertising and encourage online platforms to promote mental health resources and community engagement. The ADS for Mental Health Act increases transparency around social media advertising by requiring platforms to report on their targeted ads and encouraging them to dedicate a portion of advertising to mental health public service announcements and community events, moving online platforms closer to the long-standing public-interest standards applied to television and radio broadcasters. The bill will now be voted on in the House. The legislation responds to alarming findings highlighted by previous U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy in a 2021 advisory on youth mental health, citing a 2019 study showing that one in three high school students—and half of all female students—reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, a 40 percent increase since 2009. While many factors contribute to this troubling trend, the surgeon general pointed to social media as a significant driver, calling for stronger accountability, transparency, and action against bad actors, while recognizing the many positive ways online platforms connect people and communities. Senator Sullivan highlighted these findings in a mental health roundtable across Alaska with General Murthy in 2023. “Since becoming senator, I’ve warned that the outsized role social media plays in the lives of our kids would be one of the biggest battles we face in this youth mental health crisis,” Senator Sullivan said. “It’s impossible to ignore the fact that something is deeply wrong when a whole generation can’t seem to look up from their phones, and when youth suicide rates have risen alarmingly alongside the growth of social media. I’m committed to fighting the vise grip these platforms have on our children. This legislation encourages transparency regarding the targeted ads online platforms show their viewers, and encourages platforms to dedicate a portion of those ads to highlight locally available mental health resources and community events that can reduce social isolation. We can have the strongest economy and the best quality of life in the world, but none of that means anything if our kids are depressed, isolated, or considering ending their lives because of what they’re consuming online.” Below is a timeline of Sen. Sullivan’s work on Big Tech accountability and mental health:

Senate Unanimously Passes Sullivan-Whitehouse Bill to Combat Illegal Foreign Seafood Harvest | U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) celebrated the Senate’s recent unanimous passage of their Fighting Foreign Illegal Seafood Harvest (FISH) Act. The FISH Act would combat foreign illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing by blacklisting offending vessels from U.S. ports and waters, bolstering the U.S. Coast Guard’s enforcement capabilities and partnerships, and advancing international and bilateral negotiations to achieve enforceable agreements and treaties. The legislation is cosponsored by Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), John Kennedy (R-La.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.). House companion legislation has been introduced by Representatives Nick Begich (R-Alaska), Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.), and Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas). “The geopolitics of the North Pacific and the Arctic are changing dramatically, with Russia and China increasing their aggression and ruinous activities near Alaska’s waters,” said Sen. Sullivan. “One particularly insidious threat is Chinese and Russian trawl fleets that ignore basic seafood harvest rules and best practices, and ravage fish stocks without regard for any other users or future generations. These fleets, which literally utilize slave labor in many cases, are a cancer on fisheries throughout the world and in Alaska and undercut our fishermen, who fish sustainably. I want to thank my Senate colleagues for advancing our FISH Act and helping us fight back against IUU fishing on behalf of our fishermen and coastal communities.” “I was glad to work with Senator Sullivan, my longtime partner on oceans issues, to pass our bipartisan FISH Act through the Senate. By cracking down on illegal pirate fishing, we are leveling the playing field for hardworking Rhode Island fishermen who play by the rules,” said Sen. Whitehouse, co-founder of the Senate Oceans Caucus. “Alaska seafood is sold in over 100 countries. Therefore, our fishermen and seafood processors must compete in the challenging global market,” said Jeremy Woodrow, executive director of Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute. “U.S. and Alaska seafood is regulated, harvested, and processed under the highest standards. In fact, in many cases, the U.S. sets the global standard. Unfortunately, numerous fisheries across the globe continue to operate illegally and unregulated. When these unchecked seafood products enter the global marketplace, they undercut the value of responsibly produced seafood. This impacts not only the marketplace but drives down the economic returns to Alaska’s fishing communities. Thank you, Senator Sullivan, for addressing this inequity and fighting for fairness on behalf of Alaska’s seafood industry.” “Thank you, Senator Sullivan, for working to level the playing field for U.S. fishermen,” said Gabriel Prout, 3rd generation commercial fisherman, FV Silver Spray, and president of Alaska Bering Sea Crabbers. “While my family and I are out fishing Alaska crab, we can rest assured that you are working hard to address this problem that has cost Alaska fishermen over a billion dollars over the years.” “I want to thank Senator Sullivan and Senator Whitehouse for working together to protect Alaska fishermen,” said Matt Alward, president of United Fishermen of Alaska. “Alaska’s seafood sector is facing very serious challenges. Illegal, unreported and unregulated foreign fishing exacerbates these challenges by undercutting lawful and sustainably caught American seafood. I’m grateful that Senator Sullivan is taking the issue seriously and working to crack down on IUU fishing through the FISH Act.” “Silver Bay Seafoods commends Senator Dan Sullivan for his strong support for Alaska’s fishing industry. Alaska fisheries are highly regulated and sustainably managed,” said Cora Campbell, president and CEO of Silver Bay Seafoods. “This bill increases accountability for countries that do not have the same standards, which will help level the playing field and improve competitiveness of American sourced seafood.” “Illegal fishing, and the human rights abuses associated with it, puts our oceans and fishers at risk. The United States must be a leader in holding bad actors accountable and leveling the playing field for U.S. fishers,” said Oceana Illegal Fishing & Transparency Campaign Director Dr. Max Valentine. “The FISH Act would help lift the veil on the identities of those involved in these illicit activities. Oceana thanks Sen. Sullivan and Sen. Whitehouse for their dedicated work to fight illegal fishing and protect American fishers and consumers.” “NFI believes strongly in supporting concrete solutions to stopping and combatting Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing,” said Lisa Wallenda Picard, president & CEO of National Fisheries Institute (NFI). “Where it occurs, IUU fishing harms effective fishery management measures and undercuts harvesters that fish legally and responsibly. NFI applauds Senators Sullivan and Whitehouse for the FISH Act and for understanding that there needs to be a process that targets bad actors where they are, instead of imposing regulatory burdens and costs on American seafood companies. We view the FISH Act as the definitive statute on IUU and look forward to its enactment.” “Illegal fishing practices are uniquely destructive to global fisheries and the billions of people that depend on them,” said Molly Masterton, senior attorney at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). “By shedding a light on bad actors who benefit from skirting the law, the FISH Act takes important steps to better enforce against global illegal fishing and associated labor abuses in the seafood sector. Paired with tools to root out illegally harvested seafood from the U.S. market, it will also help level the playing field for U.S. fishing communities who play by the rules.” Key provisions of the FISH Act: In April 2025, President Trump signed an executive order, “Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness,” directing the Secretary of Commerce, U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), and Interagency Seafood Trade Task Force to assess seafood competitiveness issues and collectively develop a comprehensive seafood trade strategy. Among these strategies, the USTR will examine the relevant trade practices of major seafood-producing nations, including IUU fishing and the use of forced labor in the seafood supply chain. In April 2025, the Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee unanimously passed the FISH Act from committee. On June 12, 2025, Sen. Sullivan, chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Subcommittee on Coast Guard, Maritime, and Fisheries, chaired a hearing on the threat of foreign IUU fishing to America’s and Alaska’s fishermen and coastal communities. In October 2025, The FISH Act passed the Senate as part of the Senate version of the FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, but was not included in the final bill that was signed into law. Senators Sullivan and Whitehouse have worked together extensively on ocean sustainability issues, most notably on the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act, the most comprehensive legislation ever to address the global marine debris crisis, which became law in 2020.

Alaska Delegation Celebrates Largest-Ever NPR-A Lease Sale | U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska

Washington, DC— U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan and U.S. Congressman Nick Begich (all R-Alaska) today celebrated the results of the most successful oil and gas lease sale ever held in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A). The delegation mandated the sale, the first held in the NPR-A since 2019, through last year’s budget reconciliation bill. According to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the sale was “exceptionally competitive” drawing 430 bids on nearly 200 tracts across 1.3 million acres. High bids totaled $163 million—the most in the history of the NPR-A—and will be split equally between the federal government and the State of Alaska. By comparison, the last lease sale in the NPR-A brought in $11.3 million, making today’s total for high bids more than 1,300 percent higher. Statement from Senator Lisa Murkowski: “This is a great day for Alaska that further demonstrates the world-class energy potential across our North Slope. The delegation has focused on the NPR-A not only because it is a petroleum reserve—one of the most obvious places to produce energy anywhere in the nation—but also because we knew that industry’s interest in this area is remarkably strong. Our efforts to restore access, return to the rule of law, and get this program back on track have now been fully validated by these historic results. The best part is, the best is yet to come. From here, these leases will lead to new development and production, creating good jobs, generating even more revenues, and strengthening our energy security. I look forward to all of it and thank Secretary Burgum and his team for being excellent partners on behalf of Alaska.” Statement from Senator Dan Sullivan: “Today’s historic lease sale in the NPR-A is another clear sign that Alaska’s Comeback is underway—unlocking our vast resource potential, creating good-paying jobs, and strengthening both our state’s energy economy and the energy security of our entire country. This lease sale wasn’t just historic in the amount of bids, but also in terms of the companies bidding, from some of the biggest energy companies in the world, to smaller aggressive wildcatters. This milestone is the direct result of a three-pronged approach I have worked on for years to restore investment certainty in our state. “First, President Trump’s Day One Alaska-specific executive order, Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential, set the stage to realign federal policy and empower Alaska to meet our nation’s energy needs and start to reverse the Biden-era Last Frontier Lock Up of Alaska. Second, we passed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which mandates five lease sales in the NPR-A over the next decade, ending the uncertainty caused by political pendulum swings and finally putting development certainty into law. It's important to note that Senate Democrats and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer fought to strip these Alaska energy provisions from this historic bill. And third, by working with my colleagues to overturn the Biden administration’s unlawful NPR-A rule through the Congressional Review Act, we reversed one of the most comprehensive and egregious examples of federal overreach and restored the balance Congress originally intended. “For years, Alaska was whipsawed by one-size-fits-all federal actions—more than 70 executive orders and actions by the Biden administration specifically targeting our state—that ignored both the law and the voices of our communities. The Biden administration’s NPR-A rule alone locked up roughly half of the Reserve, despite Congress’s clear mandate for responsible development, undermining the jobs, revenues, and energy production that our communities—particularly on the North Slope—depend on. Overturning that rule not only reopened opportunity in the NPR-A, it will work to prevent future politically driven lock-ups of the area. “Today’s lease sale is clear proof that this approach is working for Alaska and our economy. I want to thank President Trump and Secretary Burgum for their leadership in helping us advance this comprehensive, Alaska-focused approach to resource development and job creation. Together, we are restoring long-term certainty, strengthening American energy security, creating thousands of jobs, and continuing the Alaska Comeback for families and communities across our state.” Statement from Congressman Nick Begich: “For decades, Alaska’s resource potential was clear, but access was restricted. Today’s lease sale marks a new chapter of certainty for Alaska. When we remove federal barriers, investments in Alaska’s future follow. Removing those federal barriers and unlocking millions of acres in the NPR-A is a direct result of hard-fought efforts and strategic policymaking – provisions my team and I crafted and worked tirelessly to advance out of the House Natural Resources Committee while working to secure Alaska’s fair share of the benefits and increasing our revenue share from 50 percent to 70 percent starting in 2035. This is a major step toward long-term economic stability for our state. I’m grateful to Senator Murkowski and Senator Sullivan for their work in the Senate to ensure this effort became law. This is a clear example of what coordinated leadership across our delegation can deliver for Alaska. This lease sale is just the beginning of a stronger Alaska and a more secure American energy future.” The NPR-A spans roughly 23 million acres in northwest Alaska and is roughly the size of Indiana. Congress specifically designated the area for responsible energy development, directing the Department of the Interior, through BLM, to conduct an “expeditious program of competitive leasing of oil and gas.” The Biden administration ignored the law and sought to turn most of the petroleum reserve into de facto federal wilderness—refusing to hold a single lease sale; imposing an Integrated Activity Plan that closed at least 48 percent of its surface acreage to leasing; promulgating an illegal rule that established a presumption against new leasing and development; and initiating a process to expand and create new Special Areas where development could not occur. The Alaska delegation has worked closely with the Trump administration and congressional colleagues to restore an effective NPR-A oil and gas program:

Sullivan, Hassan Introduce Legislation to Encourage Employer-Provided Child Care | U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska

Position: Senators Sullivan and Hassan introduced legislation to establish an IRS liaison to help employers better understand and utilize federal tax incentives for employer-provided child care, building on expanded child care tax credits and dependent care account provisions from the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.

WASHINGTON— U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) have introduced legislation to help more employers offer child care support for their employees by establishing a dedicated business child care liaison within the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The new liaison would serve as a central point of coordination between the IRS, businesses, child care providers, advocates, and state and local governments to help employers better understand and use existing federal tools that support child care for working families. This bill builds on the progress made in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, passed in July, which significantly strengthened federal incentives for employer-supported child care by expanding the employer-provided child care tax credit and increasing the amount families can set aside in Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts. “Quality child care is not only essential for the well-being of families, it is also key to a thriving economy and a strong workforce,” said Sen. Sullivan. “I hear repeatedly from Alaska parents that the lack of affordable child care is one of their top concerns, and the data backs that up. Sixty-one percent of Alaskans are living in communities classified as child care ‘deserts,’ and too many families struggle to find reliable, affordable care close to home. This legislation will help employers, providers, and other nonprofits better utilize federal tools for employees—specifically the significant expansion of federal incentives in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act for child care facilities and the provisions that expand opportunities and support for working families.” “We need to make sure that businesses are able to take advantage of every available tool to help their workers afford child care,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will help cut through the confusion around federal child care tax incentives, increase awareness among businesses about these incentives, and make it easier for Granite State businesses and employers across the country to invest in the child care that their employees need to stay in the workforce.” The legislation has been endorsed by numerous child care providers and family support organizations in Alaska and across the country: “Affordable, reliable child care is essential for strong families and a strong economy,” said Trevor Storrs, president and CEO of Alaska Children’s Trust. “Alaska’s businesses want to support working families, but navigating child care tax benefits can be complicated. This bill gives employers the clear guidance and partnership they need to offer meaningful child care support to their employees’ families. At the Alaska Children's Trust, we believe strengthening businesses’ ability to invest in child care strengthens our economy and our communities.” “This bill helps employers offer child care benefits that better support working families,” said Stephanie Berglund, CEO of Thread. “That is especially important in rural states like Alaska, where child care shortages can limit workforce participation. We appreciate Senator Sullivan’s leadership and his engagement with organizations like ours as we work to strengthen Alaska’s child care system.” “The YMCA of Alaska endorses this legislation that lessens hurdles for accessible childcare and helps all families find affordable childcare options,” said Nate Root, President and CEO of YMCA Alaska. “The All Alaska Pediatric Partnership (A2P2) supports any legislation that promotes coordination and utilization of benefits aimed at increasing access to employer-supported child care tax benefits,” said Tamar Ben-Yosef, executive director of A2P2. “The Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act sponsored by Senator Sullivan and Senator Hassan is a positive step toward increasing the Federal government’s understanding and consideration of the unique challenges experienced by Alaskans. We look forward to working with Senator Sullivan leveraging the information gathered through the Business Child Care Liaison office to identify further opportunities to increase utilization among Alaskan employers in rural communities where access to child care services is greatly limited.” “The U.S. Chamber of Commerce applauds Senators Hassan and Sullivan for introducing the bipartisan Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act,” said Stephanie Ferguson Melhorn, Executive Director of Workforce & International Labor Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “By establishing a dedicated Business Child Care Liaison, this legislation will help businesses leverage the employer-provided child care credit and other existing incentives. Employer-provided child care is a proven recruitment and retention tool, and this commonsense bill will empower more employers to take advantage of these benefits.” “Employers in New Hampshire understand that child care is workforce infrastructure — when parents can't find or afford care, they can't show up to work,” said Trina Ingelfinger, Early Care and Education Policy Director of New Futures, Concord, NH. “Federal tax credits and flexible spending accounts are available to help businesses invest in child care solutions for their employees, but too many companies are finding it challenging to use these programs. The Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act closes that gap by giving businesses the guidance and support they need to act on the child care challenges their employees face every day. This kind of practical approach will give more families access to programs that can help them better afford child care.” “As a statewide organization dedicated to supporting child care programs and the families they serve, Early Learning NH understands how helpful a Business Child Care Liaison housed at the IRS will be to parents working hard to provide for their family,” said Jackie Cowell, Early Learning NH. “We’re grateful to Senators Hassan and Sullivan for their leadership in introducing the Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act,” said Sarah Rittling, Executive Director of the First Five Years Fund. “The 45F credit recognizes that employers are eager to be part of the child care solution for their employees. Having an IRS advocate dedicated to employer-provided child care, as this bill does, would go a long way in helping businesses utilize the 45F tax credit, leading to more child care options that support working parents and help our youngest learners grow.” “Employers know that child care is the necessary infrastructure that supports their workforce,” said Susan Gale Perry, CEO of Child Care Aware of America. “But many are unaware of the federal tools available to defray the cost of providing child care support. Establishing a Business Child Care Liaison at the IRS would help ensure employers understand and can better utilize the Employer-Provided Child Care Credit (Section 45F). Greater awareness of this credit will help more employers partner with Child Care Aware of America's network of child care resource and referral organizations to connect working families with the child care they need.” “The Buffett Early Childhood Institute at the University of Nebraska is pleased to endorse the bipartisan Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act, introduced by Senators Hassan and Sullivan,” said Walter S. Gilliam, PhD, Executive Director of the Buffett Early Childhood Institute at the University of Nebraska. “This bill smartly addresses one of the biggest challenges regarding businesses utilizing tax benefits to increase access to child care—lack of tailored technical assistance that businesses can use. Thank you Senators Hassan and Sullivan for prioritizing businesses and working families by prioritizing affordable access to child care.” “When employers support child care options for their employees, it is a win-win - families have access to the care they need to thrive and participate in the workforce, and employers have tools to help them attract and retain employees,” said Nicole Riehl, President & CEO of Executives Partnering to Invest in Children (EPIC). “Federal child care tax incentives are an important tool for encouraging businesses to invest in child care, but they can be intimidating to navigate. By providing resources to help with this navigation, we are confident that more employers will take the leap to invest in child care as a workforce and economic development tool.” “For too long, women have been forced to choose between their careers and their kids, not because they want to, but because child care is treated like a personal problem,” said Reshma Saujani, Founder and CEO of Moms First. “Last year, with the help of Moms First’s National Business Coalition for Child Care, Congress expanded the employer child care tax credit for the first time in over two decades. That’s a $700 million opportunity to get more companies providing child care benefits to their workers, but only if they know how to use it. This bill makes sure they do, and that means more women in the workforce, stronger businesses, and an economy that can actually grow.” “Employers are a critical piece of the puzzle as we work to ensure all families, regardless of income or geography, have access to high-quality, reliable child care,” said Radha Mohan, Executive Director, Early Care and Education Consortium. “The Early Care and Education Consortium (ECEC) commends Senators Hassan and Sullivan for introducing the Child Care Tax Benefit Outreach and Assistance Act. This bill will ensure recent enhancements to the Employer-Provided Child Care Tax Credit (Sec. 45F) and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (DCAP FSAs) are fully realized. By creating a Business Child Care Liaison at the IRS to educate employers, issue clear guidance, and troubleshoot real-world implementation challenges, this bill will help turn underused tax incentives into real child care options for working families. Paired with continued investments in core programs like the Child Care and Development Block Grant, this kind of smart, business-facing infrastructure is exactly what we need to expand affordable, accessible child care and support the workers and businesses who depend on it.”