Robert Menendez

To amend the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 to establish a hotline for caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities, and for other purposes.

in committee

Communications Equity and Diversity Council Act

in committee

Toll Evasion Prevention and Plate Visibility Act of 2026

in committee

“Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and welcome the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, His All-Holiness Bartholomew, to Washington, DC. The spiritual leader of the Orthodox Christian Church, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew comes to the United States to accept the Templeton Prize, which recognizes an individual who has ``made an exceptional contribution to affirming life's spiritual dimension, whether through insight, discovery, or practical works.'' Born in current day Gokceada, Turkey, His All-Holiness received his undergraduate degree at the Theological School of Halki and completed graduate studies at three universities in Italy, Switzerland, and Germany. He was elected in October 1991 as the 270th Archbishop of Constantinople-New Rome, a Church of 300 million individuals worldwide, including many of my constituents in New Jersey's 8th Congressional District. He has devoted his life to advocating for peace-building measures, organizing interfaith summits, and promoting religious freedom and human rights. It is a privilege to welcome such a leading figure to the Nation's Capital and recognize his significant contributions to peace, interreligious dialogue, and cultural understanding. I urge my colleagues to join me in celebrating this historic visit. ____________________”

2025-09-17 · Civil Rights

“Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 50th anniversary of one of the most iconic albums in American music history, Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen. Released on August 25, 1975, this landmark album did more than launch a young songwriter from Long Branch, New Jersey into stardom; it became the soundtrack for countless Americans and an anthem for all those blessed to call New Jersey home. Songs like ``Thunder Road'', ``Jungleland'', and the titular ``Born to Run'' demonstrate Springsteen's unmatched ability to blend vivid storytelling set in the incredible mosaic that is New Jersey with the generational musical talent of the E Street Band. Born to Run has stood the test of time and is remembered today as a timeless masterpiece about our daily struggles and chasing our dreams no matter the odds. Over the past five decades, Bruce Springsteen has become more than just an iconic artist. He is a staple of American culture. Known as ``The Boss'', he has sold more than 150 million records, won 20 Grammy Awards, and been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His philanthropic efforts supporting food banks, veteran organizations, and anti-poverty initiatives reflect the values of compassion, solidarity and looking after each other that have always been the foundation of his music. And even with all of his success, you can still find him near the streets, venues, boardwalks and people that shaped him and his music. Mr. Speaker, the 50th anniversary of Born to Run is not just a celebration of an album, it is a recognition of Bruce Springsteen's enduring impact on our country. For more than half a century he has given voice to the struggles and aspirations of the people we encounter in all our lives--the dreamers and the believers, the down-but-not-out, and the men and women whose stars may have faded but still burn inside them. But perhaps what separates Springsteen from his peers is that he continues to create music that captures the moment and times we are in. On behalf of the people of New Jersey's Eighth Congressional District, and the millions of Springsteen fans worldwide, it is a privilege to honor this important anniversary and to thank him for all his contributions to our country, and most notably, to the great Garden State. ____________________”

2025-08-22 · Government Reform

“Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions of Dr. Olga Hugelmeyer as she is honored by Elizabeth's Promise Awards. Dr. Hugelmeyer is a distinguished educator and the Superintendent of Elizabeth Public Schools. Her unwavering commitment to academic excellence and her visionary leadership have profoundly impacted the students, educators, and the broader community of Elizabeth. Dr. Hugelmeyer has dedicated her career to public education and to serving her community. She has worked in education for over 27 years and has served as a classroom teacher, Supervisor of Grants, Supervisor of Early Childhood Education, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, and Superintendent of Elizabeth Public Schools. Her distinguished career demonstrates her unparalleled devotion to the students of Elizabeth's public schools. Throughout her tenure, Dr. Hugelmeyer has championed initiatives aimed at enhancing educational outcomes and fostering an environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed. She has lead the Elizabeth Public School District with distinction through many challenging times, including the tumultuous COVID-19 pandemic. Her renowned leadership has not only elevated the standards of education within Elizabeth Public Schools, but has also served as an inspiration to countless students, educators, and administrators. The House extends our deepest gratitude to Dr. Olga Hugelmeyer for her exemplary service and unwavering dedication to the field of education. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the Elizabeth community and beyond. [[Page E440]] ____________________”

2025-05-15 · Education