Thursday - March 28, 2024
U.S. Congressional Tipoffs Involving New York Newsletter for Sunday April 05, 2020 ( 126 items )  

* FROM CAPITOL HILL - Chairwoman Maloney Calls on Drug Companies Not to Increase Prices on Coronavirus Treatments
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release: Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, the Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, sent a letter to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) urging its member drug companies to commit to setting affordable prices for any medications that are or may be used to prevent or treat coronavirus, including vaccines. "In order to end   more

2020 Census: Rep. Maloney Celebrates Census Day
NEWBURGH, New York, April 2 -- Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-New York, issued the following news release: In celebration of the once-a-decade Census Day, Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) is encouraging Hudson Valley residents to respond to the 2020 Census, either online or by phone. "It is critical we get as big a response to the 2020 Census as we can from the Hudson Valley. The Census determines our share of federal funds, and will help grow our economy, expand access to resources, and keep o  more

After Rising Numbers of Prisoners Test Positive for COVID-19, First Death in Federal Prison, Nadler, Bass Renew Call for DOJ to Take Action
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- 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) and Subcommittee on Crime Chairwoman Karen Bass (D-CA) sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General William Barr urging him to use the authority granted under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) to protect the most vulnerable prisoners and those working in federal prisons from coro  more

Amid Coronavirus Crisis, Rep. Brindisi Launches Updated Coronavirus Website to Provide One-Stop-Shop for Constituents
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: * * * - Congressman Debuts Information Hub for Upstate New Yorkers * * * Amid the growing coronavirus pandemic and following the signing of an economic relief bill, Congressman Anthony Brindisi launched an updated version of his coronavirus resources webpage. Brindisi put together a helpful one-stop-shop for families, workers, businesses, and more. "The health and safety of Upstate New Yorkers is m  more

Amid Coronavirus Crisis, Rep. Brindisi Visits With Veterans and Agriculture Advisory Councils
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Amid the growing coronavirus pandemic and following the signing of an economic relief bill, Congressman Anthony Brindisi hosted two tele-conference meetings with constituent advisory committees. Brindisi, a member of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee and Agriculture Committee, convened virtual meetings for his advisory councils to hear feedback on the federal response to the coronavirus outbreak.   more

As Number of First Responders With COVID-19 Continues to Rise, Rep. Rose Calls on Mayor to Utilize Federal Funding to Increase PPE
WASHINGTON, March 28 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 27: As the number of New York City first responders testing positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to rise, Congressman Max Rose is urging New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio to substantially increase funding for personal protective equipment (PPE) for first responders. "In the scariest of times and darkest of days, our City's Finest and Bravest continue to show up and put their lives on the lin  more

As Part of Coronavirus Relief, Rep. Brindisi Announces Millions in Emergency Solutions Grants
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Anthony Brindisi announced millions in Emergency Solutions Grants for the region. Brindisi announced that Utica would receive nearly $1.5 million and Binghamton would receive more than $1.1 million in funding. The dollars come after Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act which Brindisi supported last week. The CARES Act included economic relief for wo  more

Chairman Jeffries on Coronavirus-Related Attacks on Asian Americans: 'We Will Not Stand for Racism'
NEW YORK, March 31 -- The House Democratic Caucus Chairman Hakeem Jeffries issued the following news release on March 30: This week, Caucus Chairman Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) and Vice Katherine Chair Clark (D-MA) led a video press conference with Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) Chair Judy Chu (D-CA), Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chair Karen Bass (D-CA), Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Chair Joaquin Castro (D-TX) and CAPAC First Vice Chair Grace Meng (NY-08) to address r  more

Following Passage of CARES Act, Rep. Katko Announces $7 Million in New HUD Funding for Central New York
SYRACUSE, New York, April 1 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) announced $7 million in funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help bolster local efforts to combat COVID-19 and address secondary impacts of the disease. Last week, Rep. Katko supported passage of the bipartisan, bicameral, Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, legislation that allocated $12.4 billion for   more

Following Rep. Stefanik Advocacy, Seniors Receiving Social Security Will Not Have to File Tax Return to Get Stimulus Check
SARATOGA, New York, April 3 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik called for the IRS to provide immediate clarity on the process for seniors to receive their COVID-19 crisis stimulus checks, following the information put out earlier this week indicating some seniors would be required to first file tax returns before they can receive checks. Late last night, U.S. Treasury announced that seniors receiving Social Security will not be re  more

GAO Issues Report on Department of Homeland Security Temporary Protected Status
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Government Accountability Office has issued a report (GAO-20-134) is entitled "Temporary Protected Status: Steps Taken to Inform and Communicate Secretary of Homeland Security's Decisions". The report was sent to Sen. Benjamin Cardin, D-Maryland, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian Security, Democracy, Human Rights and Global Women's Issues, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Connecticut, Sen. Cory Booker,  more

GAO Issues Report on NSF Major Facilities Construction Projects
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Government Accountability Office has issued a report (GAO-20-268) is entitled "National Science Foundation: Cost and Schedule Performance of Major Facilities Construction Projects and Progress on Prior GAO Recommendations". The report was sent to Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, chairman, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-New Hampshire, ranking member of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, Rep. Jose E. Serrano, D-New York, chairm  more

In Response to Local Staffing Shortages at Hospitals, Rep. Katko Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Incentivize Retired Healthcare Professionals
SYRACUSE, New York, April 4 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) introduced the Health Care Worker and First Responder Social Security Beneficiaries Choice Act, bipartisan legislation that would address the staffing shortage many Central New York hospitals currently face by incentivizing retired healthcare workers to participate in the local Coronavirus response effort. Rep. Katko joined U.S. Rep. Harley Rouda (D, CA-48) in introducing   more

Nadler, Feinstein, Durbin, Lofgren Demand DHS Give Due Process As Required By Law to Unaccompanied Children During COVID-19 Outbreak
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- 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), Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Senate Subcommittee on Immigration Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-IL), and House Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship Chair Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Acting Secretary Chad F. Wolf regar  more

Rep. Brindisi Fights for Farmers, Calls on Small Business Administration to Give Small Farms Access to Immediate COVID-19 Relief
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: * * * - Congressman Leads Bipartisan Push To Make Sure Relief Is Available For Family Farmers * * * Congressmen Anthony Brindisi (NY-22), Antonio Delgado (NY-19), and Josh Harder (CA-10) led a bipartisan letter of 85+ members urging the Small Business Administration (SBA) to ensure small farms can access immediate COVID-19 relief through the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program under the   more

Rep. Brindisi, Sen. Schumer Announce Critical Funding Estimates for Economic Development in Upstate Communities As Part of Coronavirus Relief Legislation
WASHINGTON, March 28 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: * * * - Reps Announce Millions in Popular and Potent CDBG - Community Development Block Grants Funds Can Support Local Economic Development & Not-For-Profits, Fund Senior Centers, & Even Pave Roads To Name A Few - Schumer, Brindisi: We Are Making Sure Our Communities Have All The Tools They Need To Fight Back & Keep Our Economy Going * * * U.S. Senator Charles Schumer and U.S. Congressman Anthony B  more

Rep. Cartwright Calls on Greyhound to Limit Service Between NEPA and NYC During COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
SCRANTON, Pennsylvania, April 1 -- Rep. Matt Cartwright, D-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release: U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (PA-08) called on Greyhound Lines, Inc. to limit its bus service between Northeastern Pennsylvania and New York City to individuals traveling for essential purposes only, as there has been a significant, sustained rise in COVID-19 cases in both areas. "My district in Northeastern Pennsylvania is the closest Pennsylvania congressional district to greate  more

Rep. DeFazio: House Transportation Committee Leaders Reaffirm Bipartisan Opposition to Any Effort to Waive Jones Act
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Reps. Peter A. DeFazio, D-Oregon, and Sam Graves, R-Missouri, chairman and ranking member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, issued the following joint statement with Reps. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-New York, and Bob Gibbs, R-Ohio, chair and ranking member of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, after reports that the Trump administration was considering waiving the Jones Act: The Jones Act is a U.S. law that requires American   more

Rep. Delgado Leads Bipartisan Letter With Brindisi, Harder Urging SBA to Give Small Farms Access to Immediate COVID-19 Relief
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representative Antonio Delgado (NY-19) along with Reps. Anthony Brindisi (NY-22) and Josh Harder (CA-10) led a bipartisan letter of 86 members urging the Small Business Administration (SBA) to ensure small farms can access immediate COVID-19 relief through the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program under the recently-passed CARES Act. The CARES Act expanded the EIDL program to enable small busi  more

Rep. Delgado Releases COVID-19 Resource Guide on Website
KINGSTON, New York, April 2 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Representative Antonio Delgado (NY-19) announced the release of a resource guide for the community with information and resources related to the coronavirus pandemic. Following passage of three federal emergency response packages, Rep. Delgado assembled this guide to provide an overview of benefits, federal programs, and funding available to upstate workers, families, and small businesses du  more

Rep. Engel Calls on Trump Administration to Restrict Exports of Medical Equipment
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Eliot L. Engel, D-New York, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following news release: Representative Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, called on the Trump Administration to restrict the export of personal protective equipment in the face of a growing shortage in the United States. In a letter to Vice President Mike Pence, who heads the administration's coronavirus task force, Chairman Engel underscored that   more

Rep. Engel Calls on Trump Administration to Restrict Exports of Medical Equipment
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Eliot Engel, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representative Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, called on the Trump Administration to restrict the export of personal protective equipment in the face of a growing shortage in the United States. In a letter to Vice President Mike Pence, who heads the administration's coronavirus task force, Chairman Engel underscored that through the Export Control Reform Act and the Intern  more

Rep. Engel Issues Statement on House Passage of Senate Coronavirus Stimulus Package
WASHINGTON, March 28 -- Rep. Eliot Engel, D-New York, issued the following statement on the House passage of the Senate's coronavirus stimulus package: "These are extremely trying times for our country. We are caught in the middle of an unprecedented moment of global unrest, driven by a pandemic that has already caused great personal and economic hardship for millions of people around the world. For those of us tasked with responding to this crisis, time is of the essence. Without immediate, dr  more

Rep. Engel Statement on Orban's Coronavirus Power Grab
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Eliot L. Engel, D-New York, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement regarding legislation that passed through parliament in Hungary giving the prime minister sweeping emergency authority under the guise of measures to combat the coronavirus pandemic: "Prime Minister Orban is making a blatant power grab in the face of the worst global health crisis in recent history. This legislation marginalizes the Hungarian parliament and a  more

Rep. Engel, Sen. Menendez Propose Policies for Addressing COVID-19 in Iran
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Eliot L. Engel, D-New York, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following news release on April 3: Representative Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Senator Bob Menendez, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, today proposed a series of policies addressing one key part of the global COVID-19 outbreak. The lawmakers' proposals would help ensure humanitarian assistance will be able to fl  more

Rep. Engel, Sen. Menendez Propose Policies for Addressing COVID-19 in Iran
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Eliot Engel, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representative Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Senator Bob Menendez, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, proposed a series of policies addressing one key part of the global COVID-19 outbreak. The lawmakers' proposals would help ensure humanitarian assistance will be able to flow to Iranian citizens who need it most, while seeking to avoid enric  more

Rep. Espaillat Applauds Passage of Historic Families & Workers-First Coronavirus Legislation
WASHINGTON, March 28 -- Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-New York, issued the following statement: Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) applauded passage of historic Families and Workers-First legislation, which will now go to the President's desk for his signature. Watch video (https://www.c-span.org/video/?c4864335/user-clip-rep-espaillat-speaks-support-cares-act) of Rep. Espaillat's remarks on the U.S. House floor in support of the CARES Act. "I am proud to support this historic piece of leg  more

Rep. Espaillat Leads New York City Congressional Delegation to Denounce Anti-LGBTQ+ , Transphobic Actions During COVID-19 Assistance Efforts
NEW YORK, April 4 -- Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) led members of the New York City Congressional Delegation to issue the following statement regarding the field hospital in Central Park operated by Samaritan's Purse. Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan's Purse, has a long history of anti-LGBTQ+ and transphobic remarks, and the organization's call for volunteers to provide assistance amid COVID-19 insists that healthcar  more

Rep. Gottheimer Calls for Reinstatement of Full SALT Deduction in Next Coronavirus Relief Package
GLEN ROCK, New Jersey, April 1 -- Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) called on Congressional leadership to include reinstatement of the full State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction in any forthcoming coronavirus economic relief package. New Jersey has the second highest caseload in the country, along with New York and other hard-hit SALT states. Reinstating SALT would provide northern New Jersey families with real tax cuts  more

Rep. Granger: Coronavirus Update - April 1, 2020
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, issued the following e-newsletter: Statistics are current as of April 1, 2:00pm CT In Texas, 47,857 people have been tested, resulting in 3,997 cases and 58 deaths, as reported by the Texas Department of State Health Services. Tarrant County has at least 273 confirmed cases; Parker County has 4 confirmed cases; and Wise County has 3. In the United States, there are at least 186,101 cases and 3,603 deaths, as reported by the CDC. 74,427 cases  more

Rep. Higgins Announces Long-Awaited Rule for Pilot Records Database Posted for Public Comment
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) reported the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) took long-awaited action toward implementation of a Pilot Records Database (PRD), a safety measure recommended following the crash of Colgan Flight 3407 on February 12, 2009. The Pilot Records Database was required in the Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill of 2010 approved by Congress and has been in a   more

Rep. Higgins Announces Nearly $20 Million in COVID-19 Emergency Funding for Western New York Communities
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced Western New York will receive over $19.939 million in federal emergency funding to help local communities respond to and recover from the COVID-19 outbreak. The funding was included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act recently approved by Congress to address urgent public health and economic crisis. Higgins said, "These allocations   more

Rep. Higgins Announces Over $61.3 Million for Public Transportation in WNY
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced Western New York will receive more than $61.3 million in federal funding to support public transportation through an emergency package approved by Congress in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. "Public transportation is an essential service and by maintaing operations, we ensure residents continue to have access to healthcare, food and employment," said Congres  more

Rep. Higgins Announces Seniors Will Now Receive Automatic COVID-19 Stimulus Payments, After Ways & Means Members Fought for Change
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) and his colleagues on the House of Representatives Ways and Means Subcommittee on Social Security requested and won agreement by the U.S. Department of Treasury to automatically provide stimulus checks to senior citizens who are Social Security recipients, reversing course on previous directives which would have required seniors to complete forms to receive the COVID-19 re  more

Rep. Higgins Releases Information on COVID-19 Relief for Small Business
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a complete halt of community and business activity for many in Western New York. Until the pandemic risk subsides, many businesses will continue to be interrupted. Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) supported relief to small businesses through emergency legislation, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economy Security (CARES) Act, and is providing details to help local business  more

Rep. Higgins, Along With Other NY, NJ Members, Calling to Expedite Funding to Healthcare Providers
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) and other members of New York and New Jersey's federal delegation are calling for the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary to expedite funding to healthcare providers in the two states. In a bipartisan, bicameral letter, Higgins and the other 33 Members of Congress write, "As health care professionals describe their hospitals as war zones and the death toll in our sta  more

Rep. Katko Introduces Legislation to Establish Bipartisan Commission on U.S. Pandemic Preparedness and Response
SYRACUSE, New York, April 4 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Reps. John Katko (NY-24) and Stephanie Murphy (D, FL-07) introduced the National Commission on COVID-19 Act, legislation that creates a bipartisan commission to assess the United States' preparation for and response to pandemics. Modeled after the 9/11 Commission, the COVID-19 Commission would be comprised of an equal number of Democrats and Republicans, appointed by the President and congression  more

Rep. Katko Submits Op-Ed on CARES Act
SYRACUSE, New York, March 31 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the op-ed on the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, published on the Syracuse.com website: U.S. Reps. John Katko (R, NY-24) and Anthony Brindisi (D, NY-22) penned the following op-ed published on Syracuse.com on March 28, 2020, regarding their support for the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill that delivers crucial relief and support to Central New York. Rep  more

Rep. King Coronavirus Resource Guide
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Pete King, R-New York, issued the following news release: In these uncertain times, Congressman Pete King is providing this Coronavirus Resource Guide to assist residents who are in need of economic, health or travel assistance. Economic Assistance - Paid Leave Provisions in Families First Coronavirus Response Act: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic/ffcra-employee-paid-leave - IRS Guidance on Economic Impact Payments: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/economic-i  more

Rep. Lowey Announces More Than $4.7 Million in Federal Grants for Critical Community Development Projects
WHITE PLAINS, New York, April 1 -- Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY17/Rockland-Westchester) announced $3,253,308 in federal funding for Westchester County, $961,755 for Rockland County, and $518,258 for the City of White Plains from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's CDBG and ESG programs funded in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. "The spread of the coronavirus across the Lower Huds  more

Rep. Lowey Announces Nearly $3.8 Billion in Federal Funding to Help the MTA Recover From the Impacts of COVID-19
WHITE PLAINS, New York, April 3 -- Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY17/Rockland-Westchester) announced $3,790,512,656 in federal funding for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) through the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) program funded in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to help with the costs of maintaining transportation service for New Yorkers during the COVID-19 pandemic and quickly r  more

Rep. Malinowski Fights to Eliminate Cap on State and Local Tax Deduction
SOMERVILLE, New Jersey, April 3 -- Rep. Tomaz Malinowski, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: This week, Congressman Malinowski (NJ-7) co-led a letter with Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (NY-8) to Speaker Nancy Pelosi requesting that the next phase of legislation addressing the COVID-19 crisis include a repeal of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provision that capped the state and local tax (SALT) deduction and property tax deduction at $10,000. "Not only is the cap unfair to wo  more

Rep. Maloney Announces Over $7 Million in Grants to Hudson Valley for Housing, Economic Relief Programs Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
NEWBURGH, New York, April 3 -- Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) announced the Hudson Valley has received over $7,007,385 in emergency coronavirus recovery grants, made possible by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The grant funds, which were awarded through Housing and Urban Development's Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program and the Community Block Development Grant (CBDG) program will be  more

Rep. Maloney Announces Over $85 Million in Transit Grants to Hudson Valley
NEWBURGH, New York, April 3 -- Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) announced the Hudson Valley has received over $85,000,000 in Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grants, made possible by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and administered by the Department of Transportation. The grant funds will help the Hudson Valley's public transportation systems respond to COVID-19. Transit providers acr  more

Rep. Maloney Applauds State Department For Bringing Thousands Stranded Americans Abroad Home
NEW YORK, April 1 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, issued the following statement: Following the return of more than forty of her constituents who were stranded abroad due to COVID-19, Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12) issued the following statement commending the State Department's actions and urging continued work to bring every American stranded abroad back home. "Thousands of United States citizens and legal permanent residents have been stranded abroad during the COVID-19 outb  more

Rep. Maloney Issues Statement for the Congressional Record on H.R. 748, the CARES Act
WASHINGTON, March 28 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, issued the following statement on March 27 on the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (H.R. 748): My home is again an epicenter for a national disaster. Today, New York City is the frontline of the war against the spread of coronavirus; the United States now has the most confirmed COVID-19 cases in the world, and New York City has, by far, the most cases in the United States, reaching more than 23,000 as of this morning. Ne  more

Rep. Maloney Statement on Equal Pay Day
NEW YORK, April 1 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, issued the following statement in recognition of Equal Pay Day: "Equal Pay Day is our yearly reminder of the economic inequality that millions of women face, and that is particularly severe for women of color. It has never been more urgent to close the gender pay gap. "The dire consequences of the pay gap are especially stark in times of crisis because women have less money saved and less accumulated wealth to rely on. This is unacceptable  more

Rep. Maloney Statement on House Passage of Third Coronavirus Emergency Relief Bill
WASHINGTON, March 28 -- Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-New York, issued the following statement: The House of Representatives passed Congress's third coronavirus emergency relief bill, a $2.2 trillion package that will provide direct financial assistance and expand unemployment benefits for New York families. The bill also provides state and local governments, hospitals, and small businesses the resources they need during the coronavirus pandemic. "My top priority during this pandemic is getting  more

Rep. Maloney: House Committee Chairs Request Extension of Public Comment Periods During Coronavirus National Emergency
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release: Fourteen House Committee Chairs sent a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Acting Director Russell Vought requesting an immediate extension of public comment periods, hearings and meetings due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The Committee leaders asked that OMB direct agencies to extend public comment periods by at least 45 days bey  more

Rep. Maloney: New FEMA Documents Show Critical Shortages of Medical Supplies
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following statement on April 2: * * * - Officials Concede Stockpiles are Inadequate, Ask Doctors to Re-Use Equipment Despite Risks * * * Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, the Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, issued the following statement after the Committee released new documents obtained from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) showing that the a  more

Rep. Maloney: New Pandemic Response Accountability Committee Chair Appointed
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following statement after the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency announced the appointment of Acting Defense Inspector General Glenn Fine to serve as the chair of CIGIE's Pandemic Response Accountability Committee: "Inspector General Michael Horowitz has taken a strong first step toward implementing the oversight requirements included in the Cor  more

Rep. Maloney: New Watchdog Report Reveals Administration's Failures After Hurricanes in Puerto Rico
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following statements with Rep. Harley Rouda, chairman of the Subcommittee on Environment for the Committee on Oversight and Reform: * * * - Serious Questions Raised About FEMA's Ability to Respond to Coronavirus Crisis * * * Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, the Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, and Rep. Harley Rouda, the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Envi  more

Rep. Meng Congratulates Frank Wu on Becoming New President of Queens College
QUEENS, New York, March 31 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) today congratulated Professor Frank Wu for being named as the new President of Queens College. "I have known Frank Wu for several years and I am honored to congratulate him as we enter this new and exciting chapter for Queens College," said Meng. "Queens College does extraordinary work in preparing students for their futures. It continues to be a beacon of higher educat  more

Rep. Meng Helps to Introduce Legislation Seeking to Provide Coronavirus Relief Payments to Millions of Immigrants
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following news release on April 3: U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) helped introduce legislation that would provide coronavirus relief payments to millions of immigrants and immigrant families who are currently ineligible to receive these critical funds. Last week, Congress passed and the President signed into law the third COVID-19 relief package, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act (H.R. 748). The measure wi  more

Rep. Meng Working to Ensure Resumption of Mail Service in Ridgewood, Maspeth, Glendale and Middle Village
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) announced that she is working with the U.S. Postal Service to get mail delivery restarted in the Queens communities of Ridgewood, Maspeth, Glendale and Middle Village. For nearly a week, many residents of these communities have not received their mail. According to a report, an employee at the Ridgewood Post Office tested positive for the coronavirus and workers have been conc  more

Rep. Morelle Votes to Enact Third Piece of Emergency Legislation, Provide Relief for American Families
ROCHESTER, New York, March 30 -- Rep. Joseph Morelle, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Joe Morelle voted to enact a third relief package in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The $2 trillion investment represents the largest stimulus bill in American history and will provide direct payments to individuals, support for small businesses, aid for healthcare systems, and more. "As we work to combat this global health crisis, we must prioritize the needs of struggling f  more

Rep. Nadler Issues Statement on Passage of CARES Act
NEW YORK, March 30 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, issued the following statement on March 27 regarding the House's passage of the bipartisan Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act: "Today, the House passed the bipartisan CARES Act, the next phase of Congress' COVID-19 response. While this is certainly not the last effort to tackle the enormous economic, health, and budget issues caused by this pandemic, it takes important, emergency steps to respond to the needs of working Ameri  more

Rep. Nadler: House Committee Chairs Request Extension of Public Comment Periods During Coronavirus National Emergency
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, issued the following news release: Fourteen House Committee Chairs sent a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Acting Director Russell Vought requesting an immediate extension of public comment periods, hearings and meetings due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The Committee leaders asked that OMB direct agencies to extend public comment periods by at least 45 days beyond the end of  more

Rep. Norcross, Sen. Menendez, NJ, NY Delegations Urge Administration to Distribute CARES Act Funding to Health Care Providers Quickly
CHERRY HILL, New Jersey, April 3 -- Rep. Donald W. Norcross, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) joined Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and the New Jersey and New York Congressional delegations, including Sens. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expedite the awarding of funds for hospitals and health care providers as appropriated in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, a  more

Rep. Pallone: E&C Leaders Blast Trump Administration's Rollback of Clean Car Standards
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following joint statement on March 31 with Rep. Jan Schakowsky, D-Illinois, chair of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and Commerce, and Rep. Paul Tonko, D-New York, chairman of the Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change in response to the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issuing their final rule establish  more

Rep. Reed: Problem Solvers Caucus Calls on Leadership to Develop Debate & Voting Options
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Tom Reed, R-New York, issued the following news release: "The bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus recognizes that all members of Congress have a Constitutional obligation to represent his or her constituents by debating and voting in the United States Congress, particularly during the COVID-19 health and economic crisis. "We are grateful for the provisional work done on this issue. We now encourage House leadership to develop immediate options for Members to fulfill   more

Rep. Rice Statement on Third Coronavirus Response Bill
WASHINGTON, March 28 -- Rep. Kathleen Rice, D-New York, issued the following statement after the third coronavirus response bill passed the House: "I am pleased that Congress has finally reached a bipartisan compromise and passed this urgently-needed $2 trillion stimulus package. "This bill provides immediate support to Long Islanders in several ways, including increased funding for New York's hospitals, direct stimulus checks to qualifying families, expanded unemployment insurance, and new gr  more

Rep. Roe: Ensuring Physical and Financial Health
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Phil Roe, R-Tennessee, issued the following column: As the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to disrupt our country, I am completely focused on ensuring the physical and financial health of East Tennesseans. No area of the country is immune to this virus, and according to the Tennessee Department of Health, there are 81 confirmed COVID-19 cases in counties in the First Congressional District as of April 1. While this number may seem small compared to New Yo  more

Rep. Rose Announces RUMC to Begin COVID-19 Testing
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Max Rose announced that following approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the first diagnostics testing for coronavirus (COVID-19) by Cepheid, Richmond University Medical Center (RUMC) will be one of the first in New York City to begin using this technology which returns tests in approximately 45 minutes compared to the typical turnover of days. Earlier this month, Rose led a push wit  more

Rep. Rose Applauds VA Action to Treat Non-Veteran Patients to Assist NYC's COVID-19 Response
WASHINGTON, March 30 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 29: Congressman Max Rose, a Member of the Committee on Veterans Affairs who has been leading the push for the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) to embark on its Fourth Mission, issued the following statement applauding today's announcement that VA will assist New York City's response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) by opening 50 beds to non-Veteran patients to ease the burden on local hospitals. "We'  more

Rep. Rose Helps Pass Emergency Coronavirus Relief, Sending Over $40 Billion to New York
WASHINGTON, March 28 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following floor statement on March 27: * * * Congressman Max Rose voted to pass the historic, bipartisan Coronavirus Aid, Relief, & Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide over $40 billion in much-needed relief to New York. The legislation, which passed the Senate on Wednesday, was passed by the House of Representatives by a voice vote and heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. Prior to the vote, Rose delivered a spee  more

Rep. Rose Introduces New Legislation to Provide Relief to Medical Providers Impacted by COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 31: Congressman Max Rose introduced new legislation to provide critical relief for medical providers who have been gravely impacted by the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Rose's legislation, which was introduced in pro forma session, would establish a program to provide very low-interest loans to health care organizations to assist such organizations with anticipated revenue loss or higher oper  more

Rep. Rose Praises Arrival of USNS Comfort in NYC to Assist in COVID-19 Response
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following statement on March 30: Congressman Max Rose, who was the first to call for a Naval hospital ship to be deployed to New York City to assist in the response to the coronavirus (COVID-19), issued the following statement on the USNS Comfort arriving in New York Harbor: "It's a beautiful sight for us all to see the USNS Comfort arriving in New York City today giving the clear message to all New Yorkers that reinforcements are a  more

Rep. Rose Presses CDC to Prioritize NYC Labs for COVID-19 Testing Materials
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 30: Congressman Max Rose, a former nonprofit healthcare executive who has been calling on the Administration to drastically expand coronavirus (COVID-19) testing capabilities for weeks, sent a letter to the head of the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) urging it to ensure labs are able to obtain the necessary chemicals and reagents for COVID-19 tests. "We've greatly expanded testing acces  more

Rep. Rose to Deploy to National Guard to Assist Staten Island Coronavirus Response Efforts
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Max Rose will deploy to the National Guard this Wednesday, April 1 where he will work for the coming weeks at Staten Island facilities to assist in coronavirus response efforts. Rose, a Captain in the Army National Guard, will serve as an Operations Officer. "Over the past month I have seen acts of incredible bravery and sacrifice by our first responders, nurses, doctors, and essential workers who   more

Rep. Rose Urged FEMA to Approve All NYS Aid Requests Including Individual Assistance to Help Those Impacted by COVID-19 Be Made Whole
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: * * * - Individual Assistance programs could provide housing, childcare, unemployment and food benefits for those impacted by coronavirus * * * On Tuesday, prior to being activated for deployment to the National Guard, Congressman Max Rose sent a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urging it to approve outstanding requests by New York State for badly needed aid, including Individual Assi  more

Rep. Rose's Office to Host Small Business and Nonprofit Webinar With Local Experts to Help Those Impacted by COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: Following passage of the historic, bipartisan Coronavirus Aid, Relief, & Economic Security (CARES) Act, which provided hundreds of billions in relief for small businesses and nonprofits, the Office of Congressman Max Rose will host a webinar this Friday with local experts to help businesses and nonprofits navigate these new programs and apply for much-needed relief. "The SBA helps small businesses owners recov  more

Rep. Serrano Applauds Passage of Third Coronavirus Emergency Relief and Economic Stimulus Legislation
WASHINGTON, March 28 -- Rep. Jose E. Serrano, D-New York, issued the following statement: * * * - Serrano Highlights Substantial Aid it Sends to New York and Important Local Programs - Appropriations CJS Subcommittee Chairman Helped Secured Funding for Critical Programs and Initiatives * * * Congressman Serrano applauded passage of the historic H.R. 748 - Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the third and most substantial economic relief and stimulus legislation in re  more

Rep. Serrano Joins Rep. Espaillat, New York City Congressional Delegation to Denounce Anti-LGBTQ+ and Transphobic Actions
NEW YORK, April 4 -- Rep. Jose E. Serrano, D-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Serrano joined Rep. Espaillat (NY-13) and members of the New York City Congressional Delegation to issue the following statement regarding the field hospital in Central Park operated by Samaritan's Purse. Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan's Purse, has a long history of anti-LGBTQ+ and transphobic remarks, and the organization's call for volunteers to provide assistance amid COVID-19 insists that  more

Rep. Stefanik Calls for Additional Safety Precautions and PPE for North Country Prisons Amid COVID-19
SARATOGA, New York, March 31 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is calling on Governor Cuomo and the Bureau of Prisons to prioritize the immediate implementation of safety precautions and PPE for North Country state and federal prisons amid the COVID-19 crisis. "North Country Correctional Officers and their families are especially vulnerable to the coronavirus crisis, and the state has been slow to act on their concerns in implem  more

Rep. Stefanik Calls for Clarity From IRS on Stimulus Checks for Seniors, No Added Burdens
SARATOGA, April 2 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is calling for the IRS to provide immediate clarity on the process for seniors to receive their stimulus check, following the information they put out yesterday indicating some seniors would be required to first file tax returns before they can receive their COVID-19 crisis stimulus checks. The CARES Act provides that 2019 Social Security Benefit Statements are to be used to d  more

Rep. Stefanik Calls on New York State to Create Comprehensive Safety Plan for NY Prisons, Applauds NY DOCCS Decision
SARATOGA, New York, April 2 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Correctional Officers in North Country prisons are especially vulnerable to COVID-19 due to the nature of their work, and until, were not permitted to bring their own personal protective equipment into work to use as a precaution. Congresswoman Elise Stefanik called on the state to reverse this policy and grant permission to Correctional Officers to bring PPE from home. This morning, the New York   more

Rep. Stefanik Cosponsors Bill Ensuring Broadband Connectivity for Students and Families
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is a cosponsor of the Keeping Critical Connections Act, bipartisan legislation that helps small broadband providers ensure rural broadband connectivity for students and their families during the COVID-19 outbreak. This legislation creates a temporary Critical Connections Emergency Fund at the FCC, which will allow small telecommunications providers to keep students low-income  more

Rep. Stefanik Introduces Bill to Support Northern Border Regional Commission
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Stefanik, along with Rep. Ann Kuster (D-NH) and a bipartisan group of their colleagues, introduced a bill to make the Northern Border Regional Commission (NRBC) grant program more accessible, allowing for the NRBC to temporarily contribute 100% of the cost of projects who are awarded funding. Traditionally, NBRC grant recipients must come up with 20% of the total cost of a project from some   more

Rep. Stefanik Local Media Roundup on COVID-19
SARATOGA, New York, April 4 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has done various interviews and conference calls with local media over the past few weeks on coronavirus, its impact on seniors and small businesses, local prisons and corrections officers, the CARES Act, 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   more

Rep. Stefanik Sends Letter Requesting Inclusion in Small Business Relief for Farms and Agribusinesses
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has sent a letter to Small Business Administration (SBA) asking that farms and agribusinesses be considered eligible for the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans. The CARES Act, passed by the House last week, creates an emergency economic injury grant program. This provision expands the eligibility criteria in the underlying economic injury disaster program. However, the SBA c  more

Rep. Stefanik Sends Letter Requesting More Funding for New York in Next Federal Legislative Package
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik sent a letter to House leadership requesting that New York State receive significantly more funding in any forthcoming federal legislative relief package. The last stimulus package, the CARES Act, allocated the funding for state and local governments purely by population, not by the amount of cases or the impact it has had on the state. There was also a minimum allocation of $  more

Rep. Stefanik Sends Letter Requesting New York Regional Hospital Funding
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has joined other members of the New York and New Jersey Congressional Delegations in sending a letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar requesting that he prioritize funding for the New York and New Jersey regional hospitals. The State of New York estimates a potential revenue loss of $9 billion to $17 billion in FY21, which begins next week. As of March 31st  more

Rep. Stefanik Sends Letter to USDA Requesting Support for Farmers
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has sent a letter to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue asking for support for farmers who have lost direct markets due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The bipartisan letter requests swift implementation of the CARES Act, which provides significant funding to local farms and agribusinesses who have lost direct markets and income as a result of   more

Rep. Stefanik Statement on Gov. Cuomo Announcement Regarding Ventilator Shift From Upstate to Downstate
SARATOGA, New York, April 4 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following statement: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik released the below statement following Governor Cuomo's announcement that he is signing an executive order to shift ventilators from Upstate to Downstate New York: "I am very concerned about Governor Cuomo's announcement today regarding his plan to sign an executive order to shift ventilators from Upstate to Downstate New York," said Congresswoman Stefanik. "The North C  more

Rep. Suozzi Travels to DC to Ensure Coronavirus 'Phase Three' Passage
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Thomas Suozzi, D-New York, issued the following news release: On Friday, March 26th, Congressman Suozzi traveled to Washington, DC to ensure the passage of the third bipartisan coronavirus stimulus package. Suozzi traveled down to DC in the event if one Member called for a roll call vote and 216 Members would have needed to be present to ensure passage of the Bill. "On Friday, the House of Representatives put aside their ideological purity and came together to deli  more

Rep. Tonko Leads Letter Calling on EPA to Withdraw Anti-Science Policy
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Paul D. Tonko, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Paul D. Tonko led a letter signed by 85 members calling on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler to withdraw a recently-proposed "Selective Science" rule that would limit the scientific research available to EPA policy makers as they draft public protections and environmental guidelines. "EPA has chosen to double down on an arbitrary and opaque process that selecti  more

Rep. Velazquez Bill Would Enlist Restaurants in Anti-Hunger Effort
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez, D-New York, issued the following news release: Legislation authored by Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez (D-NY) would establish a new program to help meet staffing shortages at antihunger nonprofit organizations in New York City and throughout the nation. Under the bill, the "Community Meals Fund", nonprofits could qualify for grants of $500,000 to partner with small and mid-sized restaurants for the preparation and distribution of food to vulnerable popula  more

Rep. Velazquez Health Update
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez, D-New York, issued the following statement on April 2: "First, I want to profoundly thank everyone who has so kindly supported me in myriad ways the last few days. I've heard from countless friends, neighbors, New Yorkers and people around the country. I've been deeply touched by kindnesses large and small from cards, to calls and texts - to people leaving groceries at my door without anyone asking. Thank you so much. Your compassion inspires me.   more

Rep. Velazquez Issues Statement on March Jobs Report
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Small Business Committee, issued the following statement after the Labor Department released its March jobs statement: "Unfortunately, the March jobs report comes amid the ravishing of the COVID-19 virus, which has inflicted devastating harm on the physical and economic well-being of Americans and the global community. "Few have borne the economic brunt of this crisis as painfully as the small business owners   more

Rep. Velazquez on CARES Act Passage
WASHINGTON, March 28 -- Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez, D-New York, issued the following statement on March 27 regarding passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act: "The legislation we passed today will offer an economic lifeline to millions of working families and small businesses in New York and throughout the nation. This bill is not perfect. However, with the economy in freefall and the pandemic paralyzing our nation, the American people need and deserve swift, meaningful act  more

Rep. Velazquez on Presumed Coronavirus Infection
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez, D-New York, issued the following statement: "In the wee hours of Sunday morning, I began to feel under the weather. I developed the abrupt onset of muscle aches, fevers, nasal congestion and stomach upset. I noticed that I could no longer smell my perfume or taste my food. After speaking with The Attending Physician by phone, I was diagnosed with presumed coronavirus infection. "My symptoms are mild at the present time and I am taking Tylenol fo  more

Rep. Zeldin Introduces Legislation to Help Respond to Coronavirus Impacts on Homeless Populations
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the House Financial Services Committee, introduced the Interagency Council on Homelessness Coronavirus Guidance Act (H.R. 6293), which requires the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) to issue guidance to the public and stakeholders on best practices to prevent and respond to COVID-19 outbreaks for all classifications of homeless populations. "The cont  more

Rep. Zeldin Launches Healthcare Worker Hotline
PATCHOGUE, New York, April 3 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: Since the start of the coronavirus outbreak, Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the bipartisan Congressional Coronavirus Task Force, has been in direct contact with hospitals across New York's First Congressional District regarding the resources they need and relaying the concerns of Long Island nurses and healthcare workers. Today, Congressman Zeldin released an online Healthcare Worker Hot  more

Rep. Zeldin Submits Op-Ed on Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following op-ed: With several tens of thousands of documented coronavirus cases, New York is the state hit hardest by the ongoing outbreak. Our response has been a whole-government, top-to-bottom response from President Trump to Governor Cuomo to our local elected officials and other community leaders. Whether it was approving testing in state and private labs, the approval of semi-automated testing, shipments of ventilators from   more

Rep. Zeldin, Long Island Community Hospital Urge New York to Use John J. Foley Skilled Nursing Home to Increase Hospital Capacity
PATCHOGUE, New York, March 30 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the bipartisan Congressional Coronavirus Task Force, was joined by Long Island Community Hospital President & CEO Richard Margulis in urging the State of the New York to consider utilizing the currently unutilized John J. Foley Skilled Nursing Home in Yaphank, which could accommodate up to 500 beds, as a location to increase hospital bed capacity on Long I  more

Rep. Zeldin: Army Corps Awards $50 Million Construction Project to Expand Hospital Capacity at Stony Brook University
PATCHOGUE, New York, March 31 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the bipartisan Congressional Coronavirus Task Force, just announced the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers awarded a $50 million contract to Turner Construction Company to expand hospital capacity at Stony Brook University in light of the ongoing outbreak of coronavirus. This project is part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers efforts to support the FEMA-led res  more

Rep. Zeldin: House Passes CARES Act, Delivers Critical Coronavirus Assistance
WASHINGTON, March 28 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following statement: Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the bipartisan Congressional Coronavirus Task Force, issued the following statement after House passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) Act: "While this legislation is not perfect, the CARES Act provides critically and urgently needed funding for hospitals, state and local governments and small businesses and workers. Not only does t  more

Rep. Zeldin: More PPE Needed for Local Healthcare Workers, First Responders and Law Enforcement
PATCHOGUE, New York, March 30 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the bipartisan Congressional Coronavirus Task Force, is calling for additional Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to be provided to local healthcare workers, first responders and law enforcement due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. In addition to PPE that has previously been provided to New Yorkers from the federal and state government, $16 billion w  more

Reps. Bass, Nadler Renew Call for DOJ to Take Action After First COVID-19 Related Death Reported in Federal Prison
WASHINGTON, March 31 -- Rep. Karen Bass, D-California, issued the following news release: House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime Chairwoman Karen Bass (D-Calif.) and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-New York) sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General William Barr urging him to use the authority granted under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) to protect the most vulnerable prisoners and those working in federal prisons from coronavirus (or COVID-1  more

Reps. Brindisi, Fitzpatrick Introduce Bill to Ensure Comprehensive Preparedness for Future Natural Emergencies
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Anthony Brindisi and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), along with Tom Reed (NY-23), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Will Hurd (TX-23), Tom Suozzi (NY-03) and Dean Phillips (MN-03), introduced the Made in America Emergency Preparedness Act. This legislation aims to strengthen the manufacturing industry and bolster the supply chain of emergency resources for future crisis. Additionally, the bill  more

Reps. Brindisi, Katko Urge Immediate Disbursement of Cares Act HHS Funds to Support Hospitals in Central, Upstate New York
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressmen Anthony Brindisi (D, NY-22) and John Katko (R, NY-24) called on the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to immediately direct a proportional amount of funding from the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund to support hospitals in Central and Upstate New York. This request comes after the lawmakers supported passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Econom  more

Reps. Engel, McCaul Statement on Death of State Department Employee From COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Eliot L. Engel, D-New York, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, issued the following joint statement on the death of a State Department employee from the coronavirus: "Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of the State Department employee who has been lost to COVID-19. "They have our deepest condolences, as does the entire State Department family spread out around the world. "We know that diplomacy can be da  more

Reps. Katko and Brindisi Urge Immediate Disbursement of CARES Act HHS Funds to Support Hospitals in New York
SYRACUSE, New York, April 2 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Reps. John Katko (R, NY-24) and Anthony Brindisi (D, NY-22) called on the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to immediately direct a proportional amount of funding from the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund to support hospitals in Central and Upstate New York. This request comes after the lawmakers supported passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Econo  more

Reps. Maloney, Axne Lead Colleagues in Urging Trump Administration to Immediately Suspend Tariffs
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswomen Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) and Cindy Axne (D-IA) were joined by 18 of their colleagues in urging the Trump Administration to immediately suspend all tariffs on the imports of medical supplies and personal protective equipment during the coronavirus pandemic. In their letter to U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and U.S. Ambassador to China Terry E. Branstad, the Representatives wr  more

Reps. Maloney, Ocasio-Cortez Urge FDA to Revise Policy Banning Gay, Bisexual Men From Donating Blood as Coronavirus Threatens Nation's Supply
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release on April 1: Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, the Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, and Committee Member Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, sent a letter urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to revise its policy of turning away blood donations from gay and bisexual men in light of the long-term impacts of the coronavirus crisis on the   more

Reps. Maloney, Ocasio-Cortez: FDA Changes Blood Donation Policy After Letter From Oversight Committee
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following joint statement with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-New York, after the Food and Drug Administration announced that it revised its policy of turning away blood donations from gay and bisexual men in light of the long-term impacts of the coronavirus crisis on blood supply: "While shortening the deferral period for gay and bisexual men is a good first step, it is  more

Reps. Maloney, Raskin Mark 2020 'Census Day' by Encouraging Everyone to Submit Their Forms
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release on April 1: * * * - Chairs Press Census Bureau to Comply with Overdue Oversight Requests, Particularly in Light of Delays Caused by Coronavirus Crisis * * * Today, Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, the Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, and Rep. Jamie Raskin, the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, sent a let  more

Reps. McCaul, Engel Statement on Death of State Department Employee From COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Reps. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, and Eliot Engel D-New York, ranking member and chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following joint statement on the death of a State Department employee from the coronavirus: "Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of the State Department employee who has been lost to COVID-19. "They have our deepest condolences, as does the entire State Department family spread out around the world. We know that diplomacy c  more

Reps. Thompson, Rice Call on ICE to Seek Alternatives to Detention for Migrants
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Mississippi, chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, issued the following joint statement with Rep. Kathleen Rice, D-New York, chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Border Security, Facilitation and Operations, calling on Immigration and Customs Enforcement to increase the use of alternatives for detention for migrants during the coronavirus outbreak: As of monday, there are at least four detainees who tested positive for COVID-19 in ICE det  more

Reps. Zeldin, Stefanik, King, Katko Urge SALT Deduction Relief in Next Possible Coronavirus Response Legislation
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: Representatives Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), Elise Stefanik (R, NY-21), Peter King (R, NY-2) and John Katko (R, NY-24) urged Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy to include State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction relief in any additional coronavirus response legislation. Full text of the letter is as follows: Dear Speaker Pelosi and Minority Leader McCarthy, As Congress considers an  more

Sen. Booker Joins NJ, NY Delegation in Pushing Administration to Get CARES Act Funding to Health Care Providers Quickly
NEWARK, New Jersey, April 2 -- Sen. Cory Booker, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: * * * - NJ, NY are epicenter of COVID-19 outbreak * * * U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (N.J.-09) led the New Jersey and New York congressional delegations, including Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Kristin Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expedite the awarding of funds for hospitals and health care prov  more

Sen. Gillibrand Calls for Investigation Into His Removal, the Navy's Response to COVID-19 Outbreak
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Personnel Committee, joined a group of 17 senators calling on the acting Department of Defense Inspector General Glenn Fine to conduct a formal investigation into troubling reports about the COVID-19 outbreak aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt, and the subsequent decision to relieve Capt. Brett Crozier of his command. Crozier   more

Sen. Gillibrand Calls on Trump Administration to Simplify Access to Direct Cash Assistance for Social Security Recipients
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: * * * - Treasury Department and SSA Must Ease Burdens on Social Security Beneficiaries, Enforce Guidelines in CARES Act Ordering Direct Payments To Recipients Who Did Not File A Tax Return * * * U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand called on the Department of the Treasury (Treasury) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to ensure that all Social Security beneficiaries will automatically receive t  more

Sen. Gillibrand Demands Answers From Trump About Unequal Allocation of Medical Supplies and PPE
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release on April 2: * * * - Despite the fact that New York is epicenter of outbreak, requests for medical supplies remain unfulfilled * * * Yesterday, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand sent a letter to President Trump demanding an explanation for why New York State, which has substantially more confirmed COVID-19 cases than any other state, has not received its full allotment of PPE and medical supplies, whil  more

Sen. Gillibrand Presses DOJ, BOP for Guidance on Federal Prison Preparedness, Response to COVID-19 Outbreak
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release on April 3: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand pressed the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and Bureau of Prisons (BOP) for updates regarding the response and preparation at Federal Prison Facilities for the growing coronavirus pandemic. Prison facilities face unique public health challenges as inmates and staff are unable to follow social distancing and quarantine guidelines, and individuals in federal c  more

Sen. Gillibrand Urges HHS to Immediately Ramp Up Emergency Funding to New York Hospitals
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: * * * - CARES Act Emergency Response Package Includes $100 Billion to Provide Hospitals and Health Care Providers with Critical Resources to Combat COVID-19 Outbreak * * * As New York health care providers battle the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to immediately award funds for hospitals and health care providers t  more

Sen. Menendez, Pascrell Lead NJ, NY Delegation in Pushing Administration to Get CARES Act Funding to Health Care Providers Quickly
NEWARK, New Jersey, April 2 -- Sen. Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: * * * - NJ, NY are epicenter of COVID-19 outbreak * * * U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (N.J.-09) led the New Jersey and New York congressional delegations, including Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Kristin Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expedite the awarding of funds for hospitals and health care   more

Sen. Menendez, Rep. Pascrell Lead NJ, NY Delegations in Pushing Administration to Get CARES Act Funding to Health Care Providers Quickly
PATERSON, New Jersey, April 2 -- Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) led the New Jersey and New York congressional delegations, including Sens. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Kristin Gillibrand (D-NY), in urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expedite the awarding of funds for hospitals and health care providers as appropriated in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and  more

Sen. Schumer Successfully Demands IRS Send Emergency $$$ to NY Seniors, Most Vulnerable on Social Security Without Requiring Bureaucratic Paperwork
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-New York, issued the following news release: After successfully delivering billions to New York as part of last week's passage of the bipartisan CARES Act, which included provisions for direct cash assistance for seniors across the country and millions for New York seniors, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has heeded his call and will reverse the guidance issued earlier this w  more

Sen. Schumer, in Direct Call to HHS Secretary Alex Azar, Demands Immediate Guidance for Program, Release of Desperately Needed Funds
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-New York, issued the following news release on April 1: Following last week's passage of the bipartisan "Corona 3" legislation, which included a Schumer-led push to include a $100 billion Marshall plan fund for local hospitals, community health centers, and other providers on the front lines of the fight against the coronavirus, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer spoke directly with Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar  more

Sens. Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Nearly $3 Million in Federal Funding for New York City, Long Island
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: * * * - Funding Will Be Used To Supplement the Cost of Coronavirus Care for Health Centers * * * U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $2,997,486 in federal funding for New York City and Long Island. The funding was provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and will be used to support health centers providing care to communit  more

Sens. Schumer, Gillibrand Announce NY Communities Will Get Additional $2.4 Billion in CDBG Funding
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-New York, issued the following news release on March 31: Following Schumer's successful, bipartisan negotiations for significant aid for states as part of the 'Corona 3' deal passed by unanimous vote last week in the Senate and signed into law on Friday, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced that New York state localities will get $2.4 billion in federal funding for economic development and publi  more

Sens. Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Over $2.2 Million in Federal Funding for Upstate New York
WASHINGTON, April 2 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: * * * - Funding Will Be Used To Supplement the Cost of Coronavirus Care for Health Centers * * * U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $2,226,049 in federal funding for Central and Western New York, the Capital Region, Rochester, Hudson Valley, and North Country. The funding was provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and w  more

Statement by Rep. Higgins in Response to the State Executive Order
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following statement in response to the state executive order: "The concept of National Guard troops taking custody of ventilators, personal protective equipment and other resources from Western New York is unacceptable. "My staff and I are speaking directly to healthcare executives throughout Western New York on a near-hourly basis. They tell us that chronic shortages of supplies and equipment, including resources for testing fo  more

Top Republican on Oversight Subcommittee Wants Answers on De Blasio's Coronavirus Inmate Release
WASHINGTON, April 1 -- Rep. Jody Hice, R-Georgia, ranking Republican member of the House Oversight and Reform Subcommittee on Government Operations, issued the following news release: Rep. Jody Hice (R-Ga.), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Government Operations, asked for answers on New York City's plan to protect the public while releasing potentially dangerous and contagious inmates amid the COVID-19 pandemic. In a letter to NYC Department of Corrections Commissioner Cynthia Brann, Ran  more