Sen. Coons welcomes decision to remove Sudan from State Sponsor of Terrorism List

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement on the U.S. government’s decision to remove Sudan from a list of State Sponsors of Terrorism.

“Sudan’s removal from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list is a welcome and historic step forward in the U.S.-Sudan relationship. In 2019, after 30 years of brutal rule by the dictatorship of Omar al Bashir, the Sudanese people undertook tremendous risk and sacrifice to lead a peaceful revolution and demand a brighter future. Sudan’s transitional government under the leadership of Prime Minister Hamdok has continued to take steps to earn this delisting, and I am pleased to see the removal of this barrier to Sudan’s ability to participate in the international community.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to continue to strengthen and deepen ties with Sudan to help the country build on the progress of this announcement. We should start with Congress coming together with the executive branch to pass legal peace for Sudan as soon as possible in a manner that respects the rights of all victims of terrorism.”

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Sen. Coons’ statement on bipartisan COVID-19 relief bill

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) released the following statement on bipartisan legislation announced today that would provide $748 billion in COVID-19 relief to the American people.

“I am grateful to the bipartisan group of eight senators who have worked for weeks to deliver a strong, balanced proposal that will provide desperately needed relief to families in Delaware and across the country. I hear from Delawareans every day who are struggling – who have lost their job, their car, their hope, and others who are now at risk of losing their home. The bill announced today will provide help for those facing eviction or foreclosure, support for those who are unemployed, as well as funding for schools, vaccine distribution, and small businesses fighting to stay afloat.

“With more than 16 million Americans infected and 300,000 dead, we cannot afford to wait any longer to act. This should not be Congress’ last COVID relief bill, but it is a strong compromise that deserves support from both Republicans and Democrats in the Senate. We cannot leave for the holidays without getting relief to those Americans who need it.”  

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[VIDEO] Sen. Coons: ‘We should not leave for the holidays until we … give a next round of relief’

WILMINGTON, Del. — On Sunday, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) joined Chuck Todd on NBC’s Meet the Press to discuss the bipartisan framework for a $908 billion COVID-19 relief package and the immediate need for Congress to work together to pass relief for the American people.

“There is now, I think, real optimism because a terrific group of eight senators, a bipartisan group along with two members of the House, have worked hard over the last couple of weeks and came forward with a framework, a $908 billion framework, Chuck, for a next round of needed relief,” said Senator Coons. “We should not leave for the holidays until we have adopted that $908 billion framework to give a next round of relief to the millions of Americans who are facing eviction, hunger, unemployment, disease. It includes funding for vaccine distribution and $300 billion for small businesses to keep them afloat or help them reopen. I’m really optimistic we can get this done this coming week.”

Senator Coons concluded, “we have to address the trust deficit in our country, trust in science and vaccines, trust in each other after this election. The Senate here can lead and show that we can deliver the kind of relief that will restore hope to the American people.”

Full audio and video available here. A transcript is provided below.

Q: Joining me now is Democratic Senator Chris Coons of Delaware. Senator Coons, welcome back to Meet the Press. I want to start with something that Governor Chris Sununu said to me on Friday on Meet the Press Daily. It was about all of you guys in Congress. Take a listen, sir.

Clip, Gov. Sununu: I don’t think any of them deserve their jobs, frankly. None of them can stand up and say as a congressman or a senator, I led on the biggest health crisis this country has ever faced. They fell down and let politics get in the way. Shame on them. 

Q: Senator Coons, can you defend Congress from that criticism?

Sen. Coons: Well, Chuck, thanks for a chance to be on again. First, I’m just going to celebrate the combination of two things: that nine months ago, the Senate passed unanimously the CARES Act, which provided about $2.2 trillion in support to the American people and funded much of that great work at NIH and at private firms like Pfizer that is delivering these vaccines to the American people starting this coming week. But I will agree with Governor Sununu that the fact that nine months later we don’t have a next round of COVID relief is something I personally am frustrated and embarrassed about. Bluntly, I will put a lot of that responsibility at the feet of the leader of the Senate Republican majority, Mitch McConnell, because over and over as negotiations have tried to move forward over the last nine months, he’s had a key red line and sticking point. There is now, I think, real optimism because a terrific group of eight senators, a bipartisan group along with two members of the House, have worked hard over the last couple of weeks and came forward with a framework, a $908 billion framework, Chuck, for a next round of needed relief. We should not leave for the holidays until we have adopted that $908 billion framework to give a next round of relief to the millions of Americans who are facing eviction, hunger, unemployment, disease. It includes funding for vaccine distribution and $300 billion for small businesses to keep them afloat or help them reopen. I’m really optimistic we can get this done this coming week, and if we don’t, we deserve Governor Sununu’s criticism.

Q: So does this deal already have a majority support in the U.S. Senate? Is the problem that it doesn’t have a majority support among Senate Republicans? Is that why Senator McConnell won’t bring it to the floor

Sen. Coons: That’s my strong impression, but I do want to say there are Republicans working hard on coming together around this bipartisan framework. It has been a difficult negotiation and there are folks who have dedicated weeks and weeks to this effort. Even earlier this morning, I was exchanging ideas and terms with some of the Democrats about exactly how we close the last remaining gaps. Frankly, Chuck, I’m hopeful that all of us in the Senate will look back on what we accomplished nine months ago with the unanimous passage of the CARES Act, look at the need and the suffering in our states, and look forward. We are at the beginning of the end of this pandemic with nearly 300,000 Americans dead. That’s a lot of empty chairs at tables at holiday time, and there’s 16 million Americans infected. 850,000 filed for unemployment this past week for the first time. We have to address the trust deficit in our country, trust in science and vaccines, trust in each other after this election. The Senate here can lead and show that we can deliver the kind of relief that will restore hope to the American people.

Q: I want to move quickly to the transition. One of the jobs not yet filled is attorney general. I’m curious what you think is – what is the best way to ensure that the Hunter Biden investigation at the Justice Department is protected from the appearance of political interference? Do you think it needs to be a special counsel?

Sen. Coons: Well, Chuck, first, you know, so many of us have just gotten used to in the era of Trump that being a normal question. Joe Biden will not run the White House as a family business as President Trump has, and he will not interfere in decisions made by senior leadership at the Department of Justice. He won’t view the attorney general as his personal attorney, as President Trump clearly has viewed Attorney General Barr, so I’m confident that whoever is nominated to be the attorney general will restore the rule of law and will follow the appropriate process once they’re in place.

Q: I understand wanting to take your word for that but the public is pretty skeptical now, and it may not be President-elect Biden’s fault, but do you think there needs to be some protection? Is it a special counsel? Is it keeping the Delaware U.S. Attorney on and letting him – making it clear publicly that he is not going to be interfered with?

Sen. Coons: Either of those options may well work, Chuck, but frankly, this is news to all of us within the last week. I think we should trust that an attorney general nominated by Joe Biden will restore the rule of law to how the Department of Justice works and will be an attorney general following the Constitution for the American people, not a personal attorney for the president.

Q: Senator Chris Coons, Democrat from Delaware, thanks for coming on and sharing your perspective with us, sir. I appreciate it.

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Senator Coons’ bipartisan bill to promote sustainable chemistry to become law

WASHINGTON – The Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that passed the Senate today includes the bipartisan Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development Act of 2019, led by U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) and cosponsored by Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.). The bill will support American manufacturing and American jobs while also protecting human health and the environment by helping to realize the full innovation and market potential of sustainable chemistry technologies. The bill now heads to the president’s desk and is expected to become law this week.

“The chemical sector is an integral part of Delaware’s economy, and I am proud that this legislation will support green chemistry innovation, create new companies and jobs, and promote sustainable use of resources,” said Senator Coons. “By creating a cohesive national vision for sustainable chemistry research and development, improving training of chemists and other professionals, and building new partnerships with the private sector, this bill is an exciting opportunity to maintain our scientific leadership and ensure the sustainability of our chemical enterprise for years to come.” 

“Having worked closely with industry and academia to further sustainable technology innovation, DESCA is excited to see the passing of the Sustainable Chemistry R&D Act to coordinate the efforts of government in concert with these sectors for a cohesive strategy to drive innovation, build and strengthen talent, and ultimately drive economic growth.  Critically, coordinating efforts in education and training as well as technology development, removing barriers to technology commercialization, and eliminating duplicative funding and research efforts will be among the key drivers of the success of this initiative,” said Dora Cheatham, Executive Director, Delaware Sustainable Chemistry Alliance.

“By advancing sustainable chemistry research, education, training and commercialization, this legislation will provide critical benefits for people and the environment in the U.S. and globally,” said Professor LaShanda Korley, director of the University of Delaware’s new Center for Plastics Innovation. The center is working on catalytic and functionalization approaches to transform plastics into fuels and other valuable products.

“The passage of the Sustainable Chemistry R&D Act opens the door to accelerated US innovation that can deliver the safer, more sustainable chemicals and materials the global market is demanding for products in virtually every sector. Representing more than 125 companies across the entire value chain working to deliver products with more sustainable chemical ingredients, the GC3 has supported this bill for more than a decade. The Sustainable Chemistry R&D Act is smart policy that can catalyze faster progress with focused, coordinated federal action. The end result is accelerated research and innovation, expanded manufacturing capacity, enhanced market opportunities, and high-value jobs in better, more sustainable products,” said Michele Jalbert, Chief Operating Officer, GC3.

“ACS applauds the passage of the Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development act as part of the NDAA.  This legislation, representing over a decade of work, will increase innovation, coordination and investment in green and sustainable chemistry.  We appreciate the strong leadership of Senators Coons and Collins, as well as Representatives Moolenaar and Lipinski, to boost science and ensure a sustainable future,” said Glenn Ruskin, Vice President, External Affairs and Communication, American Chemical Society.

“The American Chemistry Council and our members congratulate Sen. Coons, along with Sens. Susan Collins, Shelley Moore Capito and Amy Klobuchar, on final passage of the Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development Act. Sustainable chemistry research and development is the instrument that will make solutions to global challenges possible. Through R&D investments and innovations, the chemical industry is developing the products and technologies that help save energy, enable renewable energy and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, advances in research and development also will help enable our member companies to continue to produce more sustainable chemistries with enhanced risk profiles, improve product quality while using less materials, divert materials traditionally considered waste into new and innovative uses, and design packaging and products that can be more easily recycled and reused,” said the American Chemistry Council.

“Many years in the making, the bipartisan Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development Act provides a model for how we can address a transition to safer chemicals as we grow business and job opportunities. The American Sustainable Business Council (ASBC) and the over 250,000 businesses and investors we represent, applaud the leadership of Senator Coons, for having the vision and willingness to work across party lines for the benefit our health, economy and our country,” said David Levine, ASBC President and co-Founder.

The Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development Act of 2019 is endorsed by the GC3 Sustainable Chemistry Alliance, the American Chemical Society, Alternative Fuels & Chemicals Coalition (AFCC), the American Chemistry Council, the American Sustainable Business Council, 3M, Ashland, BASF, Beautycounter, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), Chemours, Delaware Sustainable Chemistry Alliance, The Dow Chemical Company, DuPont, Environmental Working Group, The LEGO Group, Nohbo LLC, Procter & Gamble, and the University of Delaware. 

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Sens. Coons, Tillis, Reps. Brown, Blunt Rochester, Murphy celebrate passage of bill to train pilots, support ROTC students at HBCUs

WASHINGTON – The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed by the Senate today includes The Fostering Leadership and Inclusion by Growing HBCU Training (FLIGHT) Act of 2020, legislation led by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and U.S. Representatives Anthony Brown (D-Md.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), and Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-N.C.). The bill was co-sponsored by Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Tom Carper (D-Del.). The FLIGHT Act will provide new resources for Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and minority institutions, with special emphasis on support for flight training. The bill now heads to the president’s desk for signature.

“I am proud that the NDAA includes the bipartisan FLIGHT Act, which will help ensure our leaders and role models in Delaware and across the country reflect the diversity of America itself,” said Senator Chris Coons. “Our service members come from all walks of life, but people of color remain underrepresented at the military’s highest levels. Our current officers in uniform will become our policy experts, our CEOs, and often our political leaders, and the FLIGHT Act is just one of many steps we must take to ensure that those who lead our country also fully represent it.” 

“A diverse military makes this country stronger. Through new partnerships with military installations and actively encouraging participation in ROTC and flight training, we’ll tap into the exceptional talent at HBCUs and minority institutions,” said House Armed Services Committee Vice Chair Anthony Brown. “Minority groups are severely underrepresented in our officer corps, and even more so among military pilots and other critical units. The FLIGHT Act is an important step forward for diversity and inclusion in our armed services and I look forward to seeing the next generation of pilots earn their wings.”

“I am thrilled that today’s passage of the NDAA includes the FLIGHT Act. I’ve long talked about the need to ensure that America’s promise and opportunity is available to all of its citizens, and with the passage of the FLIGHT Act, we’ve taken an important step in that direction,” said Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester. “This legislation not only provides students at our nation’s HBCUs like Delaware State with a unique opportunity to learn and grow, but also provides our nation’s military with access to new and exciting talent that can help advance our national interests and enhance our security. I’m grateful to all of our partners in this effort, including my dear friends, Senator Coons & Representative Anthony Brown, and look forward to seeing the new heights our students can reach because of the FLIGHT Act.”

“This is an outstanding opportunity to boost diversity in our military,” said Senator Thom Tillis. “This legislation will allow HBCUs, like Elizabeth City State University, to invest additional resources for ROTC programs and increase training opportunities for students. I’m proud to work across the aisle to support this bipartisan legislation that will provide more access to pilot training and help advance the promising military careers of young men and women who are serving our nation.”

“The FLIGHT Act’s inclusion in the FY2021 NDAA is a major victory. Lowering barriers to entry into aviation for minority students is a win-win for our state and our nation. I’m especially excited about the implications for Elizabeth City State University in my district. ECSU is the only 4-year institution in North Carolina to offer a flight program and one of the few HBCUs in the country to do so. They do a tremendous job in their mission to help more minority students achieve their dreams of becoming pilots. I am very pleased this year’s NDAA will aid them in that mission,” said Representative Greg Murphy.

“America’s military is more resilient now because of the recent commitments we’ve made to improve readiness, while diversifying our ranks,” said Senator Tim Scott. “HBCUs are filled with strong leaders ready to serve our nation in uniform and build upon the strength of our diverse armed services.”

“Like many others who’ve had the privilege of leading men and women in our armed forces, I know our people are our military’s greatest assets and diversity is a source of enduring strength. That’s why I’m proud to see the FLIGHT Act included in this year’s NDAA. With the FLIGHT ACT, we are breaking down barriers and building a diverse leadership corps by investing in the training of ROTC students at Delaware State University and other HBCUs across the country,” said Senator Tom Carper. “As a ROTC student who went on to proudly serve as a naval flight officer, I know the skills these students will learn as part of their aviation and ROTC training will not only contribute to our national security, they will also be an invaluable foundation for success in their military and civilian careers as well.  I thank Senator Coons and Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester for their work on this bill and I look forward to making sure that students who are eager to take flight and serve their nation will reap the benefits.” 

People of color are underrepresented in American military leadership—particularly at higher ranks and in high-investment, training-intensive specialties like aviation. As a whole, the Air Force is almost 20% African-American. But that diversity is deceptive: only 1.7% of Air Force pilots (and less than 3% of civilian pilots) are Black. Similar asymmetries affect other branches of the Armed Forces.

Aspiring military aviators can significantly improve their career prospects with undergraduate pilot training, but ROTC scholarships do not cover flight training costs. This makes it more difficult for low-income students to become pilots.

The FLIGHT Act establishes two pilot programs, with the goals of:

• Lowering the barriers to ROTC participation for students at HBCUs and minority institutions. Many ROTC students at HBCUs must commute to host institutions for classes—often over long distances. This bill would provide funding and resources to mitigate that inconvenience, in part by encouraging partnerships between the institutions and nearby military bases.
• Supplementing flight training costs for ROTC members enrolled at HBCUs. While these funds can be used at commercial flight schools, priority is given to students who would also receive their flight training at HBCUs.

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Sens. Coons, Scott bill to strengthen partnerships between HBCUs like DSU and federal agencies heads to president’s desk to become law

WASHINGTON – Today, the Senate passed the HBCU Propelling Agency Relationships Towards a New Era of Results for Students (PARTNERS) Act, introduced by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Tim Scott (R-S.C.). The bill, previously passed in the House of Representatives, is now headed to the President’s desk for signature. If signed into law, this legislation will strengthen partnerships between federal agencies and the country’s more than 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

The HBCU PARTNERS Act builds on the president’s 2017 executive order on HBCUs and provides pathways for Congressional oversight and public engagement. It will require federal agencies with relevant grants and programs to undertake annual planning and coordinate their efforts to support and expand HBCU participation in those programs. The bill strengthens the rigor and transparency requirements of existing law by requiring that agencies track their progress toward past goals and share their plans with Congress. In addition, it codifies the President’s Board of Advisors on HBCUs, ensuring an ongoing avenue for the institutions’ priorities and policy concerns to be raised.

“HBCUs like Delaware State University play a critical role in helping to ensure that every American has access to higher education, and I’m so proud that our bipartisan bill to support the missions of HBCUs is one step closer to becoming law,” said Senator Coons. “We have much more work ahead to make college accessible and affordable for all Americans, and HBCUs are an important part of that work,” said Senator Coons.

“Our HBCUs have unlocked opportunities for generations of students, especially in underserved communities, and I am excited that this bipartisan bill is making its way to the President’s desk,” said Senator Scott. “The HBCU PARTNERS Act is a great step forward for these schools and their students. I look forward to this critical legislation being signed into law to help these institutions continue their legacies.”

“Once again, Delaware’s Congressional Delegation has shown unparalleled commitment in working for the passage of the HBCU Partners Act,” said Delaware State University President Tony Allen. “This time, Senator Coons, in particular, made the fundamental case, ‘excellence requires access.’  The PARTNERS Act opens the door to a new level of access to research and funding opportunities.  We expect it will be a significant catalyst toward propelling the first HBCU into research one status in history.  This is a moment whose time has come, and Senator Coons led the way—again.”

The HBCU PARTNERS Act was co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Doug Jones (D-Ala.), David Perdue (R-Ga.), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Chris Van Hollen (D–Md.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (D-Ver.), and Mike Braun (R-Ind.). A companion bill was introduced in the House by U.S. Representatives Alma Adams (N.C.-12) and Mark Walker (N.C.-06).

“Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are agents of access and equity in this country,” said Congresswoman Adams. “The HBCU PARTNERS Act recognizes these contributions in the most important way possible: by affording these institutions the ongoing support and investment needed to deepen their transformational work. This legislation will require every administration and the federal agencies it manages to plan and coordinate, on an annual basis, their efforts to strategically engage with and invest in HBCUs. In addition, it codifies the President’s Board of Advisors on HBCUs, ensuring an ongoing avenue for HBCU priorities and policy concerns to be raised and addressed. Advancing the mission of HBCUs and the success of the communities they serve must be on the minds of our country’s leaders, and more importantly, it must be part of their agendas. Thank you to my colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus and the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus for their support, as well as all of the organizations that are tireless advocates for HBCUs, in getting this bill passed.”

“Creating a comprehensive federal partnership with America’s HBCUs is essential for Congress’ shared goal of directing unprecedented support for North Carolina’s HBCUs like North Carolina A&T, Winston-Salem State, Elizabeth City State, North Carolina Central, Bennett, Johnson, C. Smith, and Shaw – proud and historic institutions which I am privileged to support,” Congressman Walker said. “With this bipartisan legislation passed through Congress and on its way to the president’s desk, the HBCU PARTNERS Act further cements our nation’s commitment to these vital educational institutions.”

Full text of the bill is available here.

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Sens. Coons, Blunt & Reps. Fitzpatrick, Castro celebrate passage of Global Child Thrive Act

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), along with U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) and Joaquin Castro (D-Texas), celebrated the passage of the Global Child Thrive Act, which was included in the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. The bipartisan legislation strengthens the implementation of policies that advance early childhood development internationally, which includes learning and physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development for children younger than eight years old.

“With nearly 250 million children in low- and middle-income countries suffering from poor development due to poverty and stunting alone, it’s critical that that we do everything possible to support children in meeting their developmental milestones,” said Senator Coons. “I’m pleased that the Senate passed the bipartisan Global Child Thrive Act, which I have been proud to champion with Senator Blunt. Together, we understand the value of investing in the reduction of preventable child deaths worldwide and ensuring the healthy development of future generations.”

“Children who experience poverty and hunger in their earliest years face developmental challenges that could shape their entire lives,” said Senator Blunt.“This bill would strengthen our country’s childhood development policies across the world, especially those affecting the most vulnerable children. I’ve been proud to work with Senator Coons and Representatives Fitzpatrick and Castro on this bill, and I appreciate our colleagues’ support on this critical issue.”

“I am thrilled to see our bipartisan and bicameral Global Child Thrive Act in this year’s NDAA. One of my greatest concerns has always been the welfare of children, not just children in the United States but children across the globe,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “I would like to thank Rep. Castro, Sen. Coons, and Sen. Blunt for their partnership on getting our legislation over the finish line. It is of the utmost importance that we help other countries help their children. As we all know, focusing on children is focusing on our future.”

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, children are more vulnerable than ever before. This bipartisan legislation is a robust measure to elevate, educate, and empower vulnerable children around the world,” said Congressman Castro. “I appreciate the leadership of Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, who co-wrote this important legislation, and thank Senators Roy Blunt of Missouri and Chris Coons of Delaware for partnering with the House on this bill.”

“It was an honor to work with Senators Blunt and Coons and their staff on the Global Child Thrive Act. Thank you Senator Blunt for your life-long dedication to the well-being of children and Senator Coons for your passion for Africa, especially for its children. We at CRS are grateful to you both for your bipartisan leadership, which will ensure hundreds of thousands of the world’s most vulnerable children reach their God-given potential– an outcome that benefits us all,” said Bill O’Keefe, EVP of Mission Mobilization and Advocacy at Catholic Relief Services.

The Assistance for Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children in Developing Countries Act of 2005 created the U.S. Government Special Advisor on for Orphans and Vulnerable Children, who is tasked with coordinating all U.S. assistance to orphans and other vulnerable children among U.S. departments and agencies, among other responsibilities. The Global Child Thrive Act builds upon that foundation by strengthening the implementation of policies that advance early childhood development internationally.

The bill expands the number of agencies over which the Special Advisor has explicit authority to coordinate early childhood development policies. It also directs the U.S. Agency for International Development to engage relevant executive agencies to incorporate early childhood development into current programming over the next five years.

To incorporate early childhood development into current programming, the agencies would:

• build on the evidence and priorities outlined in ‘Advancing Protection and Care for Children in Adversity: A U.S. Government Strategy for International Assistance 2019-2023’;
• identify evidence-based strategic priorities, indicators, outcomes, and targets to support inclusive early childhood development;
• support the design, implementation, and evaluation of pilot projects in partner countries, with the goal of taking them to scale;
• support bureaus, working groups, and task forces implementing relevant sector strategies and public laws; and
• focus on improving coordination with foreign governments and international and regional organizations with respect to official country policies and plans for early childhood development. 

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Sens. Coons, Rubio praise passage of their bipartisan bill to strengthen US-Israel strategic alliance

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) applauded the passage of their bipartisan United States-Israel Security Assistance Authorization Act (S.3176), which was included in the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bipartisan bill will strengthen the U.S.-Israel strategic alliance by authorizing $3.3 billion in annual security assistance consistent with the U.S.-Israel Memorandum of Understanding and ensure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself and address both conventional and emerging threats. 

“A strong U.S.-Israel relationship remains a bipartisan priority. The $3.3 billion in annual security assistance codified today was agreed to in a Memorandum of Understanding negotiated and signed by President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu in 2016,” Senator Coons said. “Tensions in the region continue to threaten Israeli security, and I’m proud that Congress is deepening the strategic U.S.-Israel alliance and bilateral non-security cooperation in the face of these challenges.”

“The inclusion of this important and bipartisan bill in this year’s NDAA reaffirms our nation’s unwavering support to our strongest ally in the Middle East: the Jewish State of Israel,” Senator Rubio said. “As Israel faces unprecedented threats from Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and other malign actors, we must continue to advance initiatives that protect and support our mutual security interests.”

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Carper, Coons, Blunt Rochester secure major wins for Delaware in NDAA

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons and Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester (all D-Del.) applauded the passage of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA, which each of them voted to support. The bill includes a 3% pay raise for troops, improvements to veterans’ access to care, new programs for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and more. 

“I’m proud that Congress has come together to pass the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act, which will ensure the men and women in our Armed Forces have the necessary resources to keep our country and our citizens safe,” said Senator Carper, a 23-year veteran of the Navy and Naval Reserves. “By working together across party lines, this year’s NDAA will increase pay for our troops, invest in improving base housing for military families, and create better access to health care for our Vietnam veterans. I’m especially proud that during these hard times, we also delivered for Delawareans by securing resources for ROTC students in HBCUs like Delaware State University, support for Delaware jobs, and critical investments to modernize Delaware Air National Guard’s fleet of C-130 aircraft.  This bill will improve our military readiness by upholding our promise to support our nation’s veterans, service members and their families.”

“For 60 years, Congress has passed an annual defense bill to ensure the readiness of our troops and the defense of our country. I’m proud that we also secured meaningful wins in the bill for all Delawareans,” said Senator Coons. “The FY21 NDAA includes support for ROTC students at HBCUs like Delaware State University, better care for our veterans, support for Delaware jobs, and more. It has been a year of unprecedented challenges, and this bill helps Delawareans and Americans to meet them at home and abroad.”

“One of the most serious and consequential obligations of our Congressional Delegation is working together to secure key provisions in the annual National Defense Authorization Act,” said Representative Blunt Rochester. “This year, working with Senators Carper and Coons, I’m proud to say that we have managed to secure vital care for our veterans, increase pay for our men and women in uniform, and create new opportunities for students at our incredible HBCUs like Delaware State University. I look forward to continuing to work together to advance our national security interests and Delaware’s interests.”

The annual defense bill passed today includes:

• Increasing pay for troops: The NDAA supports a 3% pay raise for our military, a 10% increase to hazardous duty pay, and over two dozen types of bonuses and special pay for troops.

• Ensuring access to care for Vietnam veterans: The NDAA provides a presumption of service-connection for bladder cancer, hypothyroidism, and Parkinsonism in veterans exposed to Agent Orange while serving in Vietnam. Based on the Fair Care for Vietnam Veterans Act, which Carper, Coons, and Blunt Rochester cosponsored, the larger piece of legislation will ensure that more Vietnam veterans access care without burdensome delays.

• Delaware jobs: The NDAA provides an additional $165 million to the CH-47 Chinook helicopter program for five CH-47F Block-II aircraft and advance procurement for future aircraft. This heavy-lift aircraft is critical to the Army and national security. The bill also authorizes additional support for four more V-22 Osprey aircraft. The funds are a win for the hundreds of Delaware Boeing employees at Ridley Park.

• Remediation for harmful chemicals known as PFAS: The NDAA builds on provisions in last year’s defense bill to increase funds for ongoing studies related to PFAS contamination in drinking water, a problem that has affected the Dover community. It also requires a survey on and research into firefighting technologies to phase out the use of foams containing PFAS and an interagency working group to coordinate research and other activities related to PFAS. 

• Two new programs for HBCUs like Delaware State University: The NDAA includes provisions from the FLIGHT Act, bipartisan legislation led by Coons and Blunt Rochester and supported by Carper, to provide new resources for Reserve Officers’ Training Corps students at HBCUs like Delaware State University. The bill will help improve diversity in our military ranks and our pilot workforce.

• Improving base housing for military families: The NDAA authorizes an additional $60 million for oversight and improvement of the Military Housing Privatization Initiative (MHPI) program and to continue addressing environmental and maintenance issues in government-owned family housing. This year’s bill also updates minimum health and safety standards for all military base housing, requires transparency for private housing company contract performance fees, and requires a report on the status of other military housing reforms.

• Modernizing Delaware Air National Guard’s fleet of C-130 aircraft: The NDAA rejects the Trump Administration’s request for cuts to the Air National Guard’s C-130 airlift capacity. Thanks to the work of the Delaware congressional delegation and Governor John Carney, the NDAA provides funding to maintain and upgrade airlift capacity, including $55 million to support propulsion and propeller upgrades for Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve C-130H airlift aircraft, $79 million for C-130 engine upgrades, and funding for seven additional C-130J aircraft. 

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Sens. Coons and Tillis, Reps. Lowenthal and Pocan introduce resolution honoring Human Rights Day

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), co-chairs of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, and Representatives Alan Lowenthal (D-Calif.) and Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) today introduced resolutions in the United States Senate and House of Representatives honoring Human Rights Day and the 72nd anniversary of the United Nations’ ratification of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) and 47 Representatives also joined the resolutions.

“As co-chair of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, I am proud to introduce this resolution on the occasion of Human Rights Day,” said Senator Coons. “In the face of growing illiberalism and authoritarianism around the world, let us celebrate the brave individuals striving for fundamental rights and freedoms, and fight for those who suffer from violence and oppression. Looking to the future, we must rededicate ourselves to the principles outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 72 years ago.”

“It’s an honor to co-chair the Senate Human Rights Caucus with my good friend Sen. Coons,” said Senator Tillis. “The mission of the Caucus is to defend and promote internationally recognized human rights norms around the world and contribute to global leadership in advocating for and protecting human rights. At the end of this difficult year, it is important that we take time to recognize these universal values as well as the courageous individuals who have dedicated their lives to upholding them by honoring the 72^nd anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.”

“Seventy-two years ago, the Universal Declaration on Human Rights was adopted, acknowledging every person is of equal worth and deserves equal dignity,” said Senator Lankford. “The United States should continue to stand for fundamental human rights– the right to life, the right to freely speak and access information, and the right to freely practice your faith, change your faith or have no faith at all. I’m proud to reaffirm that commitment today.”

“Since I joined Congress in 2013, I have joined with my colleagues in introducing this resolution each December to remind us of the basic rights and freedoms we as Americans enjoy, but that are denied to so many people around the world,” said Congressman Lowenthal. “Our nation was founded on the basic principles of life, freedom, and humanity that are enshrined in the UDHR, and we must remain a beacon of freedom and hope throughout the world. It is our duty and responsibility to continue to advocate and fight for the universal protection of human rights.”

“Now more than ever, it is imperative that we affirm global human rights and the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” said Congressman Pocan. “As authoritarianism creeps into democracies across the globe, we must keep fighting to ensure freedom, equality and basic human rights for all people. I am proud to introduce this resolution honoring Human Rights Day and the 72nd anniversary of the United Nations’ ratification of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.”

“As a Jewish organization working for Palestinian rights, we deeply understand that every person – with no exceptions – must live in freedom, equality, and with full human rights. This is at the core of ensuring justice and liberation for us all. JVP Action is proud to endorse this resolution to recommit to supporting human rights across the world,” said Stefanie Fox, Executive Director Jewish Voice for Peace Action.

“Championed by former UNA-USA board chairwoman Eleanor Roosevelt, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is the cornerstone of international human rights law and has helped countless people achieve greater freedom and dignity across the globe. We sincerely thank Rep. Alan Lowenthal, Sen. Chris Coons, and Sen. Thom Tillis for helping commemorate the UDHR’s 72^nd anniversary and honoring the core American values that underpin this historic document,” said Rachel Bowen Pittman, Executive Director, UNA-USA.

“Human rights are universal and indivisible. At AJWS, we have repeatedly spoken out against assaults on human rights around the world because we believe in the Jewish value of the inherent dignity of every individual, which is completely aligned with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We look forward to working with champions in Congress to rebuild and reinvigorate U.S. foreign policy with universal human rights at its core,” said the American Jewish World Service.

“The international community must always remember that human rights are a fundamental part of our mutual humanity and it’s up to each and every one of us to fight for them to be respected, protected, and fulfilled for all. Generations of people growing up in this country, many from different cultures and backgrounds from around the world, will now affirm – and perhaps even take for granted – the values of interdependence, inclusion, non-discrimination, and accountability — which generations before them came together to declare. We must never forget the pain and tragedy from which the Universal Declaration of Human Rights first arose, nor how powerfully the document has guided us like a candle in the dark through many difficult moments, filling us with hope, community, and compassion in the face of cruelty, oppression, and injustice. The human experience knows no political affiliation nor no nationality – we are all part of the human family and we must cherish each other’s rights,” said Joanne Lin, Amnesty International USA’s National Director of Advocacy and Government Affairs.

The resolution is endorsed by American Jewish World Service, Amnesty International USA, Jewish Voice for Peace Action, United Nations Association of the United States of America (UNA-USA), and Freedom House.

The text of the resolution is available here.

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