WASHINGTON, March 17 -- The U.S. Senate received the nominations of 10 individuals for positions in the federal government on March 16: James H. Anderson, of Virginia, to be a Deputy Under Secretary of Defense. Rodney K. Brown, of California, to be a Member of the Farm Credit Administration Board, Farm Credit Administration, for a term expiring October 13, 2024. Nancy B. Beck, of New York, to be a Commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission for a term of seven years from October 27  more

WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, issued the following statement: In response to the continued spread of COVID-19 through New York City, Representatives Nadler, Maloney, Meng, Velazquez, Rose, Ocasio-Cortez, Jeffries, Clarke, Engel, Meeks, Serrano, and Espaillat issued a statement calling for the closure of all New York City schools: "With New York City having declared a state of emergency, the time has come for Mayor de Blasio to announce the closure of all New York Ci  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- The U.S. Senate received the nominations of eight individuals for positions in the federal government on March 18: Rick A. Dearborn, of Oklahoma, to be a Director of the Amtrak Board of Directors for a term of five years. Michael P. O'Rielly, of New York, to be a Member of the Federal Communications Commission for a term of five years from July 1, 2019. Carlos Trujillo, of Florida, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation for a term exp  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 18: * * * - With Thousands Of New Yorkers Sick & Hundreds More Diagnosed Each Day, Schumer, Who Worked With House Leadership And Secured Senate Passage, Ensures Billions For NY To Fight Coronavirus - With Bill Headed To President's Desk, Schumer Will Deliver Immediate Flow of +$6 Billion to NY State & Localities For Healthcare Costs, Plus $1B In Unemployment Benefits, Free Testing, Paid Eme  more

WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 16: * * * - Critical Dollars Will Be Used to Boost Vital Public Health Response Here at Home * * * Congressman Anthony Brindisi announced major funding to help Counties on the frontline combat the coronavirus and specifically called on the Senate to act swiftly to pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which President Trump has said he supports and will sign into law. Last week,  more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: As New York continues to seek every possible avenue to increase hospital capacity in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19), Congressman Max Rose, Member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, wrote to Governor Andrew Cuomo today urging him to consider requesting from the federal government that Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals and facilities be opened up to the general public on an emergenc  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, issued the following news release: House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) sent a letter to Attorney General William Barr and Executive Office for Immigration Review Director James McHenry urging them to suspend all immigrationcourt hearings and to hold telephonic bond hearings for detained individuals until the courts return to normal operating status.. Full text of the letter   more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, issued the following news release: House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), along with Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO), Subcommittee on Antitrust, Constitutional and Administrative Law Chair David Cicilline (D-RI), andSubcommittee on Antitrust, Constitutional and Administrative Law Ranking Member Jim Sesenbrenner (R-WI) sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Justice urging immedia  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following statement on March 18 after the Census Bureau announced it would suspend field operations until April 1 due to the coronavirus pandemic: "Today, the Census Bureau announced that field operations will be suspended for two weeks, but every American should know that this does not affect your ability to self-respond. "The 2020 Census has begun, and you can complet  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Small Business Committee, issued the following statement on federal efforts to aid small businesses during the coronavirus outbreak: "As our nation bands together to fight the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, no employer or worker should be asked to put profit over the health and safety of Americans. "As we have seen across the country, the uncertainty sparked by coronavirus has drastically reduced consumer  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Small Business Committee, issued the following news release: House Small Business Committee Chairwoman Nydia M. Velazquez (D-NY) introduced the COVID-19 Relief for Small Businesses Act of 2020, comprehensive legislation that would provide relief to small businesses facing consequences from the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. "After speaking with my Committee colleagues and hearing firsthand of the struggles facing   more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release on March 20: Today, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Peter T. Gaynor provided a telephone briefing to Members of the Committee on Oversight and Reform on the Administration's preparation for, and response to, the coronavirus crisis. Administrator Gaynor was accompanied during the briefing by Keith Turi, the Assistant Admini  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: Following a push by Congressman Max Rose, Governor Cuomo announced that President Trump will dispatch the Navy's hospital ship USNS Comfort to New York Harbor. "I'm incredibly grateful for the quick and decisive action by the President and Governor to hear our call to deploy the USNS Comfort to New York Harbor," said Rose, an Army combat veteran and former non-profit healthcare executive. "Getting ahead of th  more

WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Anthony Brindisi voted to pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act through the House of Representatives. This legislation would respond to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak by providing free coronavirus testing, strengthening Medicaid, establishing emergency paid leave, and ensuring children have access to meals in the event of school closures. "We are all Americans first. I will  more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik sent a letter to House Leadership urging them to take action to waive all federal testing standards for elementary and secondary schools during the Coronavirus crisis. President Trump announced in his press conference that the standards will not be enforced during this unprecedented time, taking some of the burden off of schools. The Department of Education also announced it   more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- The Government Accountability Office has issued a report on global health assistance. The report (GAO-20-347) is entitled "Global Health Assistance: Awardees' Declinations of U.S. Planned Funding Due to Abortion-Related Restrictions". The report was sent to Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-New Hampshire, ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Connecticut, Sen. Susan M. Collins, R-Maine, Se  more

SAN FRANCISCO, California, March 18 -- House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-California, issued the following statement on the death of ex-Rep. Richard Hanna of New York: "The people of upstate New York and America have lost a patriot and public servant of conviction and character: former Congressman Richard Hanna. "Congressman Hanna was a leader of great integrity who always put patriotism and principles before politics, including when he became one of the first sitting Republican Members of Congress  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, issued the following news release: * * * - Members Warn that Federal Prisons Could Become Epicenter of Outbreak * * * Today, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Subcommittee on Crime Chairwoman Karen Bass (D-CA) sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General William Barr requesting information concerning the Department of Justice's handling of novel coronavirus (or COVID-19) a  more

QUEENS, New York, March 21 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, the panel responsible for funding all federal agencies and programs, announced today that New York small businesses that have suffered economic losses due to the coronavirus can now apply for disaster loans provided through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). SBA's ability to provide these loans is based on a me  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release on March 19: Today, the Committee on Oversight and Reform sent a letter seeking a copy of the Trump Administration's plan for producing, distributing, and conducting coronavirus testing across the country. The letter was signed by Chairwoman Carolyn B. Maloney, National Security Subcommittee Chairman Stephen F. Lynch, Government Operations Subcommi  more

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Senate lead on the FAMILY Act, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education announced plans to introduce the PAID Leave Act (Providing Americans Insured Day  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following statement on March 18 after the Senate passage of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act: "This legislation was supported by Democrats and Republicans in the House and with Senate passage now heads to the President's desk. I am glad the Senate heard my call for bipartisan action. With the President's signature, emergency leave and free testing will become available and Upstate New York counties will receive cri  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following statement on March 19 regarding two members of the House tested positive for coronavirus: "Last week, I was in contact with Congressman McAdams who recently tested positive for COVID-19. As a member of Congress and a public servant, keeping our community safe is my top priority. Out of an abundance of caution and on the advice of the Attending Physician of the United States Congress, I will self-quarantine until Fri  more

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Steve Chabot, R-Ohio, issued the following joint statement with Rep. Adam B. Schiff, D-California, in response to the People's Republic of China's decision to expel American journalists reporting for several prominent media organizations: "As co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Freedom of the Press Caucus, we strongly object to the decision to revoke press badges issued to journalists employed by the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, and The Washington   more

KINGSTON, New York, March 21 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following statement statement after the Federal Communication Commission's announcement that locations across New York will be eligible for participation in the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund: This week's announcement comes after Rep. Delgado's advocacy on behalf of the state after the FCC first declared that the entire State of New York would not be receiving any federal funds in the first phase of RDOF. To reverse th  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Representative Antonio Delgado (NY-19) member of the House Small Business Committee, introduced legislation that would ensure that every small business with a qualified Small Business Administration (SBA) loan automatically be relieved of their loan payments--including principal, interest, and fees--for the next six months. The Small Business Repayment Relief Act of 2020 would provide nearly $17 bi  more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 20: U.S. Representative Antonio Delgado (NY-19) sent a letter yesterday to House and Senate leaders urging that any future COVID-19 relief package include special disaster assistance measures for small and midsize farmers who are already experiencing severe market disruptions. Smaller farms, which make up 96% of the nearly 5,000 farms in NY-19, in the midst of an already challenging farm economy  more

WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 15: Last night, U.S. Representative Antonio Delgado (NY-19) joined a majority in the House in voting to pass bipartisan legislation, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, to support working families during the COVID-19 pandemic. "We must to do everything in our power to keep our communities safe, and we need to act now. Over the last week we have seen the number of confirmed Coronavirus   more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Representative Antonio Delgado (NY-19) wrote a letter to President Donald J. Trump calling for urgent, immediate action by the federal government to assist with medical capacity in New York during the COVID-19 global pandemic. The letter highlights rural health care needs across the Nineteenth District, and the need for investments in medical infrastructure from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and  more

SWAN LAKE, New York, March 18 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following news release: This afternoon, U.S. Representative Antonio Delgado (NY-19) visited the Sullivan County Emergency Services Training Center in Swan Lake to learn more about its work to prepare our communities for the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic. The Congressman's visit was led by Deputy County Manager John Liddle and included county officials focused on emergency response, preparedness and communications. Duri  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 19: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will offer low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to all small business owners in New York suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19). Now, small businesses across the State of New York will be able to access these loans, following a state-wide disaster designation from the SBA. U.S. Representa  more

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Eliot Engel, D-New York, issued the following news release: Following the guidance of health officials, Congressman Eliot Engel has decided to close his Washington and district offices and has instructed his staff to telework from home until further notice due to the coronavirus outbreak. "It's up to all of us to play a part in ensuring our public health," Engel said. "Closing our offices is the smart and conscientious thing to do right now. My staff will telework   more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Eliot L. Engel, D-New York, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement about the announcement by the Chinese government that it will no longer allow U.S. journalists from three publications - New York Times, Washington Post and Wall Street Journal - to receive press credentials in China: "For American journalists in China, harassment and bullying sadly come with the job of seeking truth and accountability, but Beijing's latest es  more

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Eliot Engel, D-New York, issued the following statement on the Mount Vernon Hospital: "It is critically important for every medical facility to be utilized to its fullest capacity right now. "That includes the Mount Vernon Hospital, which needs to be equipped to handle the growing coronavirus outbreak. "We need every bed, every room, every bit of medical equipment and space we can get our hands on in order to be ready for what's coming. "The Mount Vernon Hospital  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Eliot L. Engel, D-New York, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement on the Department of State's worldwide level 4 global health advisory: "The State Department's guidance that Americans not travel abroad due to the global impact of COVID-19 is an unprecedented step underscoring the seriousness of this pandemic. "I urge all Americans to heed this advisory: stay home, and if you are abroad and seeking to return to the United   more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-New York, issued the following news release: March 16, 2020, Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) announced changes to office operations in both his Washington, D.C. office and New York district offices. "The health and safety of our community is our top priority. In order to assist in preventing the further spread of COVID-19, my office is taking new precautionary measures to limit social contact and potential exposure to the virus," said  more

WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-New York, issued the following floor remarks after call for an extension of the census: "Madam Speaker, Today the census begins to reach out to households across America. All communities across the country must be counted. Particularly, those that are hard to count communities. "The census is for everybody. However, due to the coronavirus pandemic we face now difficult challenges for the census. "The census must be extended an additional three  more

WASHINGTON, March 13 -- Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), who serves as Whip of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), led several of his CHC colleagues in a letter to Dr. Steven Dillingham, Director of the United States Census Bureau, to call for an extension of the 2020 census. "As Members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, we respectfully urge you and to extend the 2020 Census enumeration by three months end  more

NEW YORK, March 21 -- Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) led members of the New York City congressional delegation to send a letter to New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, and New York State Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie to urge the New York State Legislature to enact a ninety (90) day moratorium prohibiting landlords from evicting commercial renters such as a  more

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced the three remaining Congress on Your Corner events scheduled for the month of March have been cancelled. The cancelled events are as follows: CANCELLED - Tuesday, March 17 10:00am - 12:30pm West Seneca Senior Center 4620 Seneca Street, West Seneca CANCELLED - Thursday, March 19 10am Brounshidle American Legion Post 205 3354 Delaware Avenue, Kenmore A  more

WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced House passage of H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act in a broad bipartisan vote (363-40-1) The bill provides paid leave, establishes free testing, and provides important benefits to children, families and seniors. This comes after Congress approved $8.3 billion to address the urgent costs associated with testing and treating those with coronav  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced House passage of S. 3503, providing GI Benefits during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. The bill would ensure the Veterans Affairs Department (VA) continues providing full benefits to veterans taking courses that are moved from the classroom to online during the coronavirus outbreak. "In a public health crisis like this, where social distancing and closing   more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved New York's request for a Disaster Declaration based on economic injury caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Higgins and other members of the New York federal delegation sent a letter to President Trump urging approval of the disaster designation. The authorization to provide disaster assistance  more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 20: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin reported the IRS tax filing deadline for this year is being moved to July 15, 2020. On March 18, the U.S. Department of Treasury announced COVID-19 related changes allowing for individuals to delay payments until July 15, 2020, however at that time the guidance did not change the April 15 filing deadline. The  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: In a letter to Admiral Brett Giroir, Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services and Coronavirus Czar, Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) is demanding the Administration address the urgent need for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) test kits. Higgins writes "This Administration should be acting in a proactive way to help communities plan to address this crisis responsibly. It is horrifying that at this  more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) reported on new restrictions at the border between the United States and Canada which will be put into place by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) effective 11:59pm, March 20, 2020 in a binational response to limit the COVID-19 outbreak. On March 17, Higgins, who serves as Co-Chair of the House of Representatives Northern Border Caucus, wrote to CBP seeking   more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: With news of a binational plan for strict restrictions at the border between the United States and Canada, Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) is asking U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to provide clear details on the procedures for necessary border crossings and other information related to staffing levels and protections. "While we are in the midst of a public health crisis that requires extraor  more

SYRACUSE, New York, March 18 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. John Katko (NY-24) announced $16.6 million in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) funds to support local efforts to address the Coronavirus pandemic in New York State. These funds will be directed to local health departments to assist in the development and implementation of tools and strategies to combat the Coronavirus pandemic. This award follows Rep. Katko's vote last week in s  more

SYRACUSE, New York, March 21 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) announced that on Monday evening he will hold a Telephone Town Hall to provide Central New Yorkers with an update on federal and local efforts to address the Coronavirus. Rep. Katko will be joined by a medical professional from Upstate Medical University and a representative from the Food Bank of Central New York, and will take questions from listeners. "I am pleased to  more

SYRACUSE, New York, March 21 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following statement applauding President Trump's decision to issue a Major Disaster Declaration: "This week, I urged swift approval of New York's request for a Major Disaster Declaration. I applaud the President's decision tonight to grant our request. In Central New York, a growing number of confirmed Coronavirus cases has resulted in shortages in medical supplies and increased financial strain on local businesses. Our reg  more

SYRACUSE, New York, March 20 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: Following a recent cyberattack on the U.S. Health and Human Services Department and amidst a growing number of cyber scams aimed at exploiting charitable giving during the Coronavirus pandemic, U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24), Ranking Member on the House Homeland Security Committee's Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection & Innovation Subcommittee issued a guide aimed at providing individuals and busi  more

SYRACUSE, New York, March 18 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following statement: "I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend and former colleague, Congressman Richard Hanna. A strong and independent voice for Upstate New York, Richard was always willing to work with both parties to deliver results for our region. "He was a true leader who was never afraid to stand up for his values and for what he believed in. When I was first elected to represent Central New York in Congress  more

WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following statement: U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) released the following statement after voting in support of H.R. 6201, bipartisan legislation to address the Coronavirus pandemic: "I voted last night to pass bipartisan and critical legislation that will provide much-needed relief and support to the millions of Americans who have been, and will continue to be, impacted by the Coronavirus. "This bipartisan package includes funds a  more

SYRACUSE, New York, March 19 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Reps. John Katko (NY-24) and Anthony Brindisi (NY-22) led members of New York's Congressional Delegation in urging the Administration to support a major disaster declaration requested earlier this week by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Reps. Katko and Brindisi highlighted the already devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in New York, and asked that the President issue a major disaster de  more

WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Nita M. Lowey, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, issued the following remarks in support of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201): The Families First Coronavirus Response Act builds on the $8.3 billion supplemental enacted last week to meet the needs of the American people, by: * Guaranteeing free coronavirus testing; * Providing paid leave; and * Strengthening food security initiatives through additional investments   more

WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland), Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, led the House in passing, on a bipartisan 363-40 vote, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to bolster the federal government's response to the coronavirus outbreak and address the severe impacts of the coronavirus on Americans' personal safety and financial security. The legislation now heads to the S  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Nita M. Lowey, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement after President Trump signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201): "The Families First Coronavirus Response Act will help our nation's working families during this time of crisis. "The legislation provides necessary support to meet urgent public health needs and help Americans affected by the coronavirus pandemic, including free testing, pa  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY17/Rockland-Westchester), Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, last night sent a letter to the U.S. Small Business Administrator Jovita Carranza calling for the expedited approval of New York's request to be declared a disaster area eligible for disaster loan assistance through the SBA. "The toll of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to compound and in New York alone,  more

WASHINGTON, March 14 -- Rep. Nita M. Lowey, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, issued the following news release: * * * - Legislation guarantees free coronavirus testing, secures paid emergency leave, enhances Unemployment Insurance, strengthens food security initiatives, and increases federal Medicaid funding to states * * * In advance of House consideration later, House Democrats have released the text of the bipartisan Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Th  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Nita M. Lowey, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, issued the following news release: The House passed, on a bipartisan 363-40 vote, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to bolster the federal government's response to the coronavirus outbreak and address the severe impacts of the coronavirus on Americans' personal safety and financial security. The legislation reflects bipartisan agreement between House Democrats and the Trump admin  more

WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) helped pass Congress's second, bipartisan COVID-19, or novel coronavirus, response package. The bill will provide: free coronavirus testing for every American who needs a test, including the uninsured, paid emergency leave for workers, unemployment insurance protections for furloughed workers; more money for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), sen  more

NEWBURGH, New York, March 21 -- Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) held a Telephone Town Hall focused on ways his office can help constituents navigate federal agencies during the COVID-19, novel coronavirus, pandemic. "My office is open and ready to help Hudson Valley families, small businesses and individuals who need assistance during this pandemic. I encourage anyone who needs help to reach out through my website or   more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY), senior member of the House Committee on Financial Services, was joined by 106 Members of Congress in asking for an immediate, nationwide moratorium on all foreclosures and evictions from properties owned, insured, or overseen by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), the Department  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) released a list of priorities for the urgently needed federal response to fighting COVID-19, the novel coronavirus. Congress's third emergency response bill is expected in the coming week. "A global pandemic impacts all of us, no matter your nationality, beliefs, or abilities. This coronavirus emergency relief policy framework makes sure our most vulnerable are no  more

NEWBURGH, New York, March 18 -- Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-New York, issued the following statement on March 17 regarding the death of ex-Rep. Richard Hanna, longtime public servant and a champion of upstate New York: "New York has lost a fighter today, and I've lost a real friend. Richard Hanna was someone you could count on for honesty, decency and his personal loyalty. "He was an independent thinker, which is sadly a rare thing in today's partisan era. "An early and unequivocal supporter  more

WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) voted to pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act which provides needed support for families across the country during this pandemic. "As our nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to make sure that families across this country have the resources they need to take care of themselves and their loved ones. We need to make paid leave available s  more

NEWBURGH, New York, March 20 -- Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) announced the Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved Disaster Assistance Loans for small businesses in Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess and Orange counties. Rep. Maloney pushed the SBA to approve all four counties, as small businesses have faced closures due to COVID-19, or coronavirus, containment. "In the Hudson Valley and across New York, small b  more

WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release on March 16: Today, House Oversight and Reform Committee Chairwoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY), Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck E. Grassley (R-IA), Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), and Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), released the findings of a Go  more

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Gregory W. Meeks, D-New York, issued the following news release: As we work across all levels of goverment to coordinate our response to coronavirus, make sure to regularly check my social media pages and this website for regular updates. Meanwhile, reference the resources below: For a look at the House passed Families First Coronavirus Response Act, take a look at a breakdown of what was included: Families First Fact Sheet.pdf (https://meeks.house.gov/sites/meeks  more

WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following statement calling for New York City schools to close due to the coronavirus outbreak: "In an effort to help combat the coronavirus, I have come to the conclusion that New York City must temporarily close its schools. The time has come for this to happen. This is not an easy position to take and I am fully aware of the complexities of closing our schools. As the mother of two young boys who attend local public schools in Q  more

QUEENS, New York, March 21 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 20: U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) this afternoon led a New York City Congressional delegation letter to President Trump calling on him to invoke the Defense Production Act to immediately address the shortage of personal protective equipment and medical technology. The text of the letter is below and a copy of the correspondence can be viewed here (https://meng.house.gov/sites/meng.house.gov/file  more

QUEENS, New York, March 21 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) urged President Trump to provide immediate relief to the nation's most vulnerable citizens as the U.S. works to combat the outbreak of the coronavirus. In a letter she sent to the President, Meng called for him to addresses the issues of housing, hospitals, education, the census, immigrants, the workforce, families, small businesses, prisons and discrimination against Asian  more

WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Joseph Morelle, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Joe Morelle voted to bolster federal response to the coronavirus outbreak and address its severe impacts on American families. "It is our responsibility as lawmakers to safeguard the public and stand up for the needs of working families--which is why today we have taken action to respond swiftly and decisively to the coronavirus outbreak by passing the Families First Coronavirus Response Act  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representative Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) sent a letter to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) suggesting several legislative priorities Congress should consider as we work to respond to the COVID-19 crisis. March 18, 2020 Dear Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader McConnell: During this national health emergency, Congress must act quickly and decisively   more

WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), sent a letter to New York Governor Andrew Cuomo requesting changes to the petitioning process for the June 23, 2020 New York State primary. In the letter, Rep. Nadler urged Governor Cuomo to exercise his emergency authority to facilitate submission of petitions by mail and to lower the number of signatures needed to designate petitions, protecting the health and safety of both  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, issued the following statement condemning the Trump administration's refusal to lift their ban on fetal tissue research as scientists and medical professionals work tirelessly to develop a coronavirus vaccine and save lives: "Scientists have told Congress again and again that fetal tissue is the gold standard for vaccine research. The ban on this research imposed by the Trump Administration last year has no scientific purpose, with report  more

WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Max Rose voted early this morning to pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which passed the House of Representatives with broad bipartisan support. The comprehensive legislation is aimed at bolstering the federal government's response to the coronavirus outbreak and addressing the severe impacts of the coronavirus on Americans' personal safety and financial security. The legislation, of  more

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: As New York City seeks to drastically increase hospital capacity and beds to address the growing threat of coronavirus (COVID-19), New York Congressmembers Max Rose led a letter with fellow New York Congressmembers Jose E. Serrano, Tom Suozzi, and Nydia Velazquez in calling for President Trump to deploy a Naval hospital ship to New York City. "We need the full force of government working together to combat th  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following statement on March 18: Congressman Max Rose announced that the first drive through coronavirus (COVID-19) testing site will open on Staten Island tomorrow, Thursday, March 19 at 777 Seaview Avenue, Staten Island. "More tests and access to those tests is absolutely critical. "I appreciate the Governor's leadership and decision to open the first drive-through testing site in New York City right here on Staten Island, as it   more

WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Max Rose joined 57 of his House colleagues in urging President Trump to use his authority under the Defense Production Act of 1950 for the production of vital medical supplies to meet the extreme demand during the coronavirus pandemic. "We're in unprecedented times, and the challenges we face are only growing in scale," Rose said. "From masks and gloves to protect our frontline healthcare workers   more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Max Rose led a letter with every Staten Island elected official to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically urging expedited approval for automated coronavirus (COVID-19) testing technology by Cepheid that is being developed at the Richmond University Medical Center (RUMC). "Expanding testing and expanding capacity--that's the top priority," said Rose, a former non-profit healthcare exe  more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: Following a push by Congressman Max Rose, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved manufacturer GenMark's automated testing equipment for coronavirus (COVID-19), which will significantly boost testing capacity and bring at least one new GenMark automated machine to New York City's Public Health Lab. The GenMark equipment will allow approximately one thousand more tests per day at the lab, which is where  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: With most colleges and universities closing campuses and moving to online learning, veteran students receiving Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) vouchers were in jeopardy of seeing benefits slashed, potentially forcing them to fall behind on rent. Following a bipartisan call earlier this week led by Congressman Max Rose and Congressman Gil Cisneros of California to quickly pass a bipartisan legislative fix, th  more

WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following statement: Congressman Max Rose, State Senator Andrew Gounardes, Assembly Members Peter Abbate Jr. and Mathylde Frontus, and Councilmember Mark Treyger called on New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio to implement special hours at grocery stores and pharmacies specifically for vulnerable populations like seniors and those who are immunocompromised. The South Brooklyn elected officials issued the following joint statement: "As   more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Jose E. Serrano, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Jose E. Serrano led a bipartisan letter to House and Senate Leadership urging them to take into consideration the needs of all American citizens, including those living in the U.S. territories, as they craft the third economic stimulus package to address the economic and social impact of COVID-19. The members pointed out the inequities in existing health, nutrition, and infrastructure fundin  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: The Department of Labor announced the availability of up to $100 million for Dislocated Worker Grants (DWGs) to help address the workforce-related impacts of the COVID-19 crisis. "In the midst of this public health crisis, I'm very encouraged by the steps federal agencies are taking to mitigate financial disruption for American workers," said Congresswoman Stefanik. "Hardworking families keep our North   more

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it will be collaborating with a variety of non-government organizations to deliver nearly 1,000,000 meals to students at rural schools that have closed due to COVID-19. This announcement follows the USDA's decision last week to give schools increased flexibility to continue providing meals at no cost to students in need during coronavirus-relat  more

WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is cosponsoring legislation to ensure VA educational benefits are continued throughout the pandemic of coronavirus. Under existing rules, the thousands of veterans, spouses, and dependents utilizing GI Bill benefits receive half of the authorized housing allowance for online classes rather than the full amount for attending classes in person. With university closures across   more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is a cosponsor of the Protecting our Pharmaceutical Supply Chain from China Act, legislation that would take precautions to track Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients, prohibit purchases from China by the Department of Health and Human Services, Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Defense over a two year phase-in, create transparency in the supply chain, and provide incentiv  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is an original cosponsor of the Good Samaritan Health Professionals Act, legislation that provides protection from lawsuits to healthcare professionals when they volunteer during a federally-declared disaster. In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Vice President Pence followed Congress' lead by issuing regulation to protect health care professionals by allowing them to pr  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is leading a letter to Speaker Pelosi and Leader McCarthy urging a temporary legislative authority for the Secretary of Education to proactively waive all federal testing, accountability, and fiscal requirements for elementary and secondary schools. This blanket waiver requires Congressional action. "With schools focused on ensuring students have access to meals and finding   more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: In case you missed it, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has done various interviews with local media over the past week on coronavirus, its impact on seniors and small businesses, and steps that members of the community should be taking to protect themselves. As always, Stefanik will continue to do interviews with the local media to ensure the public is fully informed on the most up-to-date information on CO  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Stefanik, along with a group of her colleagues in the New York Congressional Delegation, sent a letter to President Trump in support of Governor Cuomo's request that a major disaster declaration be issued for New York State as a result COVID-19 Pandemic. The letter urges President Trump to grant Governor Cuomo's request and immediately deploy federal resources to support New York's response  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik sent a letter to Senate Leadership with a bipartisan group of her colleagues requesting additional support for small businesses, employees, and workers who may not be traditionally covered by unemployment insurance. During this COVID-19 crisis, many freelance employees or independent contractors in the small business world are not covered by traditional unemployment insurance  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Following the announced Northern Border closure due to COVID-19, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik spoke directly with Department of Homeland Security Acting Secretary Chad Wolf to urge him to exempt hospital and healthcare workers on NAFTA visas. "I just got off the phone with Department of Homeland Security Acting Secretary Wolf," said Congresswoman Elise Stefanik. "Hospital and healthcare workers on NAFTA  more

GLENS FALLS, New York, March 16 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following statement regarding school closures in New York 21st Congressional District: "My office will continue to work closely with our communities as a bridge to federal agencies & resources during this unprecedented time," said Congresswoman Stefanik. "Given recent announcements regarding school closures in our district, my office will be working closely with our North Country Superintendents and school district  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following statement on President Trump's announcement that Northern Border will be closing to all non-essential travel due to coronavirus: "It is critical that our North Country hospitals and healthcare providers continue to have full workforce capacity during this unprecedented time," said Congresswoman Stefanik. "I am working directly with the Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection, and the White Ho  more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Following Governor Cuomo's call on the federal government to release the federal stockpile of medical equipment to address the COVID-19 pandemic, Congresswoman Stefanik joined him in urging the President to ramp up production of PPE and other medical equipment. On Wednesday, President Trump invoked the Defense Production Act, which allows him to direct manufacturers to make certain equipment that is nece  more

WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Thomas Suozzi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-Long Island, Queens) is calling on Treasury Secretary, Steven Mnuchin and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Charles Rettig to extend the tax filing deadline due to the current outbreak of Coronavirus. The IRS has authority to extend the time for filing any return for six months or less and the authority to waive certain penalties upon a showing of reasonable cause. Suo  more

WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Thomas Suozzi, D-New York, issued the following news release: On Saturday morning, at 12:52 AM, Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-Long Island, Queens) and his colleagues voted 363-40 to pass the House bipartisan Families First Coronavirus Response Act. This critical legislation now must pass the Senate. "The fact remains that there are simply not enough tests available and this lack of testing is naturally causing concern. While my advice to 'be prepared, and not scared' i  more

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Thomas Suozzi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Suozzi issued the following statement urging the Administration to nationally mobilize to protect both the health and economic stability of individuals, families, small businesses and economy as a whole: "All hands on deck! We all need to be prepared, not scared and develop a comprehensive plan. That means urgently taking swift action such as: * Beginning emergency production of ventilators,  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Rep. Paul D. Tonko, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representatives Paul D. Tonko, Doris Matsui, Joseph P. Kennedy, III and Scott Peters led a letter signed by 74 bipartisan members sent to House leadership requesting that the next coronavirus response package address the mental health challenges associated with this public health crisis. "The threat of coronavirus has instilled in so many of us an unprecedented feeling of fear and anxiety and for those l  more

AMSTERDAM, New York, March 19 -- Rep. Paul D. Tonko, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Paul D. Tonko announced that his offices are serving constituents remotely in order to protect public health and address the spread of coronavirus. Staff members have worked remotely since last Friday. They will continue to address the needs of constituents, including federal casework issues, meeting requests (which will be conducted via telephone), legislative suggestions and more.   more

WASHINGTON, March 16 -- Rep. Paul D. Tonko, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Paul D. Tonko voted earlier this morning to pass H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which bolsters federal response to coronavirus to protect American's health and safety and provide additional funding to address the economic impact caused by the pandemic. The bill includes a provision authored by Tonko and Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE) that increases access to critically n  more

PATCHOGUE, New York, March 19 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the Congressional Bipartisan Coronavirus Task Force, applauded the House and Senate for passing and the President for signing the Families First Coronavirus Act (H.R. 6201) into law. This law provides free coronavirus testing, paid sick leave, family leave for caregivers, food assistance for the needy and enhanced unemployment insurance. "The ongoing outb  more

PATCHOGUE, New York, March 20 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1) just announced that the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) issued this afternoon an emergency declaration making Economic Injury Disaster Loans available to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations in the State of New York, including Suffolk County. This action was taken following bipartisan calls for this declaration from Congressman Zel  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the Congressional Bipartisan Coronavirus Task Force, visited the new coronavirus drive thru, free testing site at Stony Brook University, which opened today. The mobile testing site features six lanes to accommodate up to 1,000 tests per day and will be open 7 days a week from 7am - 7pm. If you wish to be tested, call the State of New York Coronavirus Hotline 24/7   more

SYRACUSE, New York, March 17 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: With confirmed Coronavirus cases continuing to grow exponentially in New York, U.S. Reps. Anthony Brindisi (D, NY-22) and John Katko (R, NY-24) today called on leaders in the Senate to act immediately and in a bipartisan manner to pass H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. On Friday night, Reps. Brindisi and Katko voted in favor of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act  more

SYRACUSE, New York, March 20 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: * * * - As COVID-19 Cases Rapidly Grow in New York, Katko and Brindisi Urge Top Health Agency to Provide PPE & Ventilators * * * U.S. Reps. John Katko (NY-24) and Anthony Brindisi (NY-22) urged the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to prioritize sending supplies to Upstate and Central New York as the region races to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, and cases in New York continue   more

SYRACUSE, New York, March 21 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Reps. John Katko (NY-24) and Anthony Brindisi (NY-22) called on the Administration to use the authority invoked under the Defense Production Act of 1950 to immediately expand and mobilize necessary medical supplies for hospitals in Central and Upstate New York. Additionally, with a growing number of travel restrictions being imposed nationwide to limit the spread of the Coronavirus, the lawmaker  more

SYRACUSE, New York, March 17 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: With confirmed Coronavirus cases continuing to grow exponentially in New York, U.S. Reps. John Katko (R, NY-24) and Anthony Brindisi (D, NY-22) called on leaders in the Senate to act immediately and in a bipartisan manner to pass H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. On Friday night, Reps. Katko and Brindisi voted in favor of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act-- bipartisan  more

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, issued the following news release: House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law Chairman David N. Cicilline (D-RI) and Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and Commerce Chair Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) sent a letter to the Federal Trade Commission, urging them to t  more

WASHINGTON, March 12 -- Rep. Jose E. Serrano, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman David Price (NC-04), Congressman Jose E. Serrano, co-Chair of the Congressional Census Caucus, Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney, Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform and co-Chair of the Congressional Census Caucus, and Congressman Jamie Raskin, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, sent a letter to Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross urging the Trump   more

WASHINGTON, March 17 -- Rep. Jose E. Serrano, D-New York, issued the following news release: As New York City seeks to drastically increase hospital capacity and beds to address the growing threat of coronavirus (COVID-19), New York Congressmembers Max Rose, Jose E. Serrano, Tom Suozzi, and Nydia Velazquez are calling for President Trump to deploy a Naval hospital ship to New York City. "We write to ask that you immediately ready the naval hospital ship USNS Comfort, currently being refitted i  more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: * * * - Joint Letter Calls for Swift Action by the Agencies to Rapidly Increase Number of Available Hospital Beds In Anticipation of Surge of COVID-19 Patients * * * Democratic Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand urged FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers to move as quickly as possible to authorize, fund, and build additional hospital space in New York State, whi  more

WASHINGTON, March 19 -- Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-California, issued the following statement on March 18 regarding China's decision to expel journalists from the country: "I am deeply concerned by China's decision to expel 13 journalists working for the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and Washington Post. "This is clearly an attempt to intimidate U.S. media outlets and restrict their ability to report on events in China. Such retaliation against journalists sets a dangerous precedent that t  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 19: In case you missed it, yesterday Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Senate lead on the FAMILY Act, urged Congress to include the PAID Leave Act (Providing Americans Insured Days of Leave Act) in phase three of the coronavirus response stimulus package. The PAID Leave Act ensures that every worker in America has full paid sick and family leave, providing 14 sick days available immediately, and 3   more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Sen. James M. Inhofe, R-Oklahoma, issued the following statement: "The New York Times allegations are completely baseless and 100 percent false. I was not at the briefing on January 24. "I was meeting with pro-life kids from Oklahoma here for the March for Life and the new nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to Tanzania. "I do not have any involvement in my investment decisions. In December 2018, shortly after becoming chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I inst  more

WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Sen. Edward J. Markey, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release: Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) requested information from the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) on the plans and procedures it has in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to children in ORR-funded facilities. It has been reported that a staff member at a New York facility housing unaccompanied immigrant children has tested positive for the coronavirus. In Fiscal Year 2019, the Departmen  more

WASHINGTON, March 18 -- Sen. Ben Sasse, R-Nebraska, issued the following statement: U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after the Chinese Communist Party announced that it would expel American journalists at The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post. "Chairman Xi is terrified of a free and independent press because he doesn't want to be challenged when his government regularly spews insane pr  more

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-New York, issued the following news release: After securing an additional $6 billion for New York to support the state's fight against the coronavirus (COVID-19), U.S. Senator Charles Schumer called on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Acting Secretary Wolf to clarify travel restrictions that DHS announced it would impose at the U.S.-Canada border. DHS said that it would prohibit travel of "non-essential traffic" between the U.S. and Canada  more