Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today outlined the success of the Senate’s Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, which he chairs, in producing 10 bipartisan bills that were signed into law by the President. Those laws include landmark legislation to improve the safety of compounded drugs, and a measure to limit increases in interest rates on federal student loans. In January, when Congress returns, Harkin intends to help lead a new push to pass the minimum wage bill and to extend federal unemployment insurance.  Harkin says there is no higher priority for him than to pass the Strong Start for America’s Children Act – to expand access to early learning programs for children from birth to age 5.   Harkin’s Workforce Investment Act to expand employment opportunities and job training, strengthening social security and improving pensions and retirement security are also on the agenda.