Senator Maria Cantwell says climate change could have a devastating impact on the oceans and on Puget Sound. Warming water temperatures and ocean acidification could disrupt the ocean food chain and displace populations due to rising sea levels.

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released the following statement: 

U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) issued the following statement after the Senate voted to override the President's veto of the Farm Bill by a vote of 82-13.

"This year's Farm Bill is a victory for Washington state, our farmers, and our economy. It invests in jobs, ensures more families put a nutritious meal on their table, and for the first time provides meaningful support for our fruit and vegetable growers. It also makes needed investments in our agriculture industry to ensure we remain competitive and innovative in the global marketplace.

From Senator Maria Cantwell:

Today,U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) praised her Senate colleagues for unanimously approvingthe Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Tax Act of 2008 (The HEART Act), legislation that was crafted by theSenate Finance Committee under the leadership of Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT). Cantwell, a member of the Finance Committee, was an original co - sponsor of The Heart Actthat will provide significant tax relief to American troops and their families. 

Senator Maria Cantwell's weekly update:

Preserving Wenatchee Valley Medical Center

Last week, I announced that a proposal to ban-physician owned hospitals has been modified to protect and maintain Wenatchee Valley Medical Center. The proposal, included in an emergency supplemental bill that was passed by the Senate Appropriations Committee, will now exempt the North Central hospital from a requirement that would force it to drastically reduce its percentage of physician owners. I’m very encouraged that Wenatchee Valley Medical Center’s unique situation has been recognized by my colleagues. Forcing profound changes in this already-fragile hospital system would be disastrous for the thousands of patients in North Central Washington who rely on its services. The spending bill includes responsible changes that ensure Wenatchee Valley Medical Center can continue caring for those in need.