Mr. President, I will soon ask that the Senate pass S. 2398, the Kay Hagan Tick Reauthorization Act. The Tick Act was approved by the Senate HELP Committee more than a year ago with strong bipartisan support. I am proud to have authorized the original Tick Act in 2019 with my colleague Senator Tina Smith. Our bipartisan legislation strengthens Federal efforts to confront the alarming public health threat posed by Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatD+12$7.4M raised
Susan Collins
Senator · Maine · Republican
Susan Collins
Senate Floor
Recent comments in the Senate
Mr. President, later tonight, my colleagues will be asked to pass the continuing resolution before us to prevent a government shutdown. As chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to craft this stopgap funding measure. The continuing resolution that we produced is bipartisan and is supported by the administration. After three unnecessary lapses in funding during the fiscal year 2026 cycle, putting the possibility of yet another harmful shutdown off the table should be a priority for each and every one of us.
Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the Medicare Home Health Payment Integrity and Protection Act. This legislation would strengthen the Medicare home health program by advancing two complementary goals: protecting the home health program from fraud and strengthening access to these important services for the Americans who need them. I have long been a strong supporter of home healthcare.
Biography
Susan Collins began her public service career as a small business administrator in Maine, gaining firsthand experience with the challenges facing local employers. Elected as U.S. Senator for Maine in 1996, she has focused on strengthening healthcare access, supporting veterans, and promoting bipartisan solutions to national issues. Collins authored the 21st Century Cures Act to accelerate medical innovation and has served as chair of the Senate Aging Committee, advocating for seniors’ wellbeing. Known for her pragmatic approach, she represents Maine with a commitment to moderation and consensus-building, aiming to address her constituents’ needs with practical, sustainable policies.
Education
- B.A., Magna cum laude, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY1975
Professional History
U.S. Senator
1997–PresentSenator from Maine. 5 terms.
Founding Executive Director, Richard E. Dyke Center for Family Business, Husson College
1994–1996Led the newly created center at Husson College in Bangor, Maine, after returning to the state.
Republican Nominee for Governor of Maine
1994Ran as the Republican candidate in Maine's four-way gubernatorial election, becoming the first female major-party nominee for the office.
Deputy State Treasurer, Massachusetts
1993–1994Served in the office of the Treasurer and Receiver-General of Massachusetts.
Regional Director, U.S. Small Business Administration, Boston Office
1992–1993Appointed by President George H. W. Bush to lead the SBA’s regional office in Boston.
Commissioner, Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation
1987–1992Appointed by Governor John R. McKernan Jr. to oversee state regulation of professional and financial services.
Policy Focus
Health18%
Education6%
Commerce6%
Armed Forces and National Security4%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Susan Collins's record in Congress.
Affordable Care Act Stabilization
Secured funding for cost-sharing reduction payments to help stabilize health insurance markets under the Affordable Care Act.
Opioid Crisis Response
Co-authored the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act to address opioid abuse prevention, treatment, and recovery programs.
Lifespan Respite Care Act
Sponsored and passed legislation providing grants to improve respite care services for family caregivers.
Arctic Research Funding
Secured federal funding for the construction of a new Arctic research vessel at the University of Maine.
Committee Assignments
View details →- Senate Committee on AppropriationsChairman
- Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
- Senate Select Committee on Intelligence
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