Friday - March 29, 2024
U.S. Congressional Tipoffs Involving New York Newsletter for Sunday April 19, 2020 ( 119 items )  

Amid Coronavirus Pandemic, President Signs Bipartisan Rep. Katko Legislation Into Law, Allowing Veterans to Virtually Attend Claims Hearings From Home
SYRACUSE, New York, April 15 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: The President signed into law bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Reps. John Katko (NY-24) and Joe Cunningham (D, SC-1) to allow veterans to virtually attend VA claims hearings from home. The VA Tele-Hearing Modernization Act requires the Board of Veterans' Appeals to allow veterans with pending appeals to appear before the Board remotely from their personal computers. The Board of Veterans'   more

As Family Farms Face Economic Crisis Due to COVID-19 Outbreak, Gillibrand Announces Landmark Legislation to Provide Direct Relief
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, announced landmark legislation, The Relief for America's Small Farmers Act, to provide economic relief for small farmers suffering from massive financial losses due to reduced demand and supply chain disruptions during the coronavirus pandemic. Currently, farm bankruptcies are at an eight year high and net farm income has dr  more

Chairman Nadler, Reps. Rose, Pascrell Introduce Legislation to Compensate Public Safety Officers Who Are Disabled or Die From COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- 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), Representative Max Rose (D-NY), and Co-Chair of the Congressional Law Enforcement Caucus Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ), introduced the Public Safety Officer Pandemic Response Act of 2020. This legislation would expand an existing federal program to ensure that public safety officers who contrac  more

Chairs Maloney, Lynch Urge Trump to Immediately Restore Funding to WHO Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- 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, and Rep. Stephen F. Lynch, the Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, sent a letter to President Donald Trump after his decision this evening to suspend U.S. funding to the World Health Organization (WHO). "While we may agree that the WHO has shortcomings  more

Chairwoman Velazquez Urges Treasury and Federal Reserve to Prioritize Aiding Small Businesses
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- 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) led nine Democratic committee members in a letter to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell regarding steps the agencies can take to better assist small businesses, sole-proprietors, and self-employed individuals as they take steps to support the   more

COVID-19 Crises Good News of the Day: Rep. Reed - 373 Fewer ICU Beds Utilized Since Yesterday
CORNING, New York, April 18 -- Rep. Tom Reed, R-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Tom Reed initiated a new press awareness campaign to highlight daily positive news concerning the Covid-19 crises in America. April 16, 2020 highlight: Daily decline in the number of ICU beds needed: -191 (University of Washington) "I'm am so grateful to our health care workers and our communities as we deal with the apparent peak in the Covid-19 crisis. Today, we had 191 fewer people in ICU bed  more

Following Rep. Higgins' Call, Treasury Agrees to Provide Direct Payments Automatically to SSI Recipients
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will now receive COVID-19 relief direct payments automatically. The U.S. Treasury had previously announced additional steps for SSI beneficiaries. On April 3, 2020, Congressman Higgins and other members of the House Ways and Means Committee wrote a letter to the Treasury Secretary and IRS Commissioner urging the IRS  more

GAO Denies Protest by Airline Data of Texas
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- The Government Accountability Office has issued a decision denying a bid protest filed by Airline Data of Dallas, Texas. According to the GAO, Airline Data Inc. LLC, a small business, "protests the issuance of a subscription agreement and purchase order to Relx, Inc., doing business as Reed Business Information, of New York, New York, under request for quotations (RFQ) No. 05GA0A20Q0002, issued by the Government Accountability Office, Acquisition Management, (GAO-AM), fo  more

New Yorkers Remain at Home Amidst Coronavirus Pandemic, Gillibrand Joins Bipartisan Call to Support Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault Survivors
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a champion in the Senate for survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, joined a bipartisan group of senators calling on Congress to include support for victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in the next phase of COVID-19 relief legislation. Historically, instances of domestic violence have increased in times of national crisis and, accord  more

President Trump Appoints Rep. Zeldin to White House Task Force on Reopening the Economy
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: President Trump announced his appointment of Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1) to the White House Task Force on Reopening the Economy. The mission of this group is to "work together with the White House to chart the path forward toward a future of unparalleled American prosperity. The health and wealth of America is the primary goal, and these groups will produce a more independent, self-sufficient, and res  more

Rep. Brindisi Announces More Than $42 Million for District Higher Education Institutions
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Anthony Brindisi announced more than $42 million for district higher education institutions. The funds come as part of the bipartisan CARES Act, which Brindisi supported. "Our area is home to some of the best colleges and universities in the country," Brindisi said. "I've heard from students, educators, and administrators that COVID-19 has put a large burden on our higher education system  more

Rep. Brindisi Announces Thank You Notes to Local Heroes Program
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Anthony Brindisi (NY-22) announced Thank You Notes to Local Heroes, encouraging families in New York's 22nd Congressional District to show appreciation for essential workers with homemade cards, notes, and drawings. "From health care professionals and grocery store employees to sanitation workers and farmers, the essential workers on the front lines of the fight against coronavirus are hel  more

Rep. Brindisi Calls on FCC to Protect Customers, End Price Hikes for Internet Service During Pandemic
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Anthony Brindisi called on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to do more to protect customers from abusive practices by their Internet service providers (ISPs). In response to requests from local families, Brindisi sent a letter to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, asking that the FCC extend consumer protections for the duration of the public health emergency and also bar ISPs from raising th  more

Rep. Brindisi Slams USDA Shortsighted Decision Not to Re-Open Dairy Margin Coverage Program Amid Milk Dumping During Coronavirus Pandemic
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: After reports that United States Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue declared he would not re-open the popular Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC)program, Congressman Anthony Brindisi issued the following statement: "This decision by the Administration is shortsighted and dangerous to our food supply. Our dairy farmers are working tirelessly to keep our grocery stores shelves stocked and they nee  more

Rep. Brindisi Statement on Washington Gridlock & Paycheck Protection Program Funds Running Out
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following statement after the Paycheck Protection Program ran out of funds: "This is Washington politics at its worst. Families are struggling, small businesses are closing, and our frontline workers are risking everything to keep our essential industries moving. "Politicians in both parties need to stop the bickering and partisan games. "It is time to work together to secure additional funding for critical programs like th  more

Rep. Delgado Submits Op-Ed on Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following op-ed, published in the Albany Times-Journal: Wanted to be sure you saw this op-Ed from U.S. Representative Antonio Delgado (NY-19) published in the Times-Journal in Cobleskill on the importance of supporting our farmers throughout the COVID-19 outbreak and the Congressman's work to include small farmers in Small Business Administration's Economic Injury Disaster Loans. The op-Ed can be found in this week's print edi  more

Rep. Delgado, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan Letter Urging Administration to Establish Rural COVID-19 Task Force
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Representatives Antonio Delgado (NY-19) and Xochitl Torres Small (NM-02), and Senator Amy Klobuchar (MN) along with colleagues in both the House and Senate, wrote a bipartisan letter to Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue, urging the Administration to establish a "Rural COVID-19 Task Force." The task force would help to identify rural challenges, develop strategies and policy recommendations, as  more

Rep. Delgado, Sen. Gillibrand Urge Congress to Provide Direct Relief to New York's Rural Communities Struggling to Respond to COVID-19 Pandemic
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Antonio Delgado (NY-19) and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) urged Congress to include robust funding for rural communities in the next coronavirus relief package. Rural communities often operate on very thin margins and the coronavirus pandemic has caused these already struggling communities to lose valuable resources as they continue to operate with diminished sales tax returns, an a  more

Rep. Engel Announces Hudson River Healthcare Receives $753,367 in Funding From the CARES Act
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Eliot Engel, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Eliot L. Engel announced that Hudson River Healthcare (HRHCare) has been awarded a $753,367 in federal funding from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, also known as the Phase 3 stimulus bill. "New York has been hit the worst by the deadly coronavirus, and my district in particular has been disproportionately affected," said Rep. Engel. "The CARES Act allocated sign  more

Rep. Engel Issues Statement on President Trump Decision to Withhold Funding From WHO
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Eliot L. Engel, D-New York, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement on President Trump's announcement to withhold funding from the World Health Organization: "With each passing day of this worsening crisis, the President is showing us his political playbook: blame the WHO, blame China, blame his political opponents, blame his predecessors--do whatever it takes to deflect from the fact that his administration mismanaged this cr  more

Rep. Engel Issues Statement on Resumption of U.S. Aid to Central America
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Eliot L. Engel, D-New York, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement regarding the Trump administration's decision to resume a large portion of U.S. assistance to Central America more than a year after it was cut off: "In March 2019, President Trump cut off U.S. aid to El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras in pursuit of his radical, anti-immigrant agenda. As a result of this misguided decision, the United States lost more than a   more

Rep. Engel Submits Written Testimony Urging Federal Help for Non-Profits
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Eliot Engel, D-New York, issued the following testimony: Congressman Eliot L. Engel submitted written testimony to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System urging the Fed to include substantial financial support for American non-profits as part of their new "Main Street Lending Program." The program is currently set to provide $600 billion in bank lending to small and mid-sized businesses for coronavirus relief, but does not include lending provisions f  more

Rep. Engel, Sen. Menendez Express Concern About Trump Administration Approach to Serbia, Kosovo
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- 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, and Senator Bob Menendez, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, today called on the Trump Administration to continue diplomatic support to resolve the Kosovo-Serbia conflict in a way that's fair to both countries and consistent with U.S. law and longst  more

Rep. Engel: Expanding Home Infusion Services
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- Rep. Eliot Engel, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Representatives Eliot L. Engel (NY-16) and Fred Upton (MI-06), top Members of the Energy and Commerce Committee, led a bipartisan group of 181 House Members in urging the Trump Administration to temporarily allow seniors to receive lifesaving drug infusions in their homes to prevent unnecessary trips to hospitals, which could potentially expose them to COVID-19. "My district is at the epicenter of the  more

Rep. Espaillat Announces Over $21 Million Coronavirus Funding to District Health Centers
NEW YORK, April 14 -- Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-New York, issued the following statement: Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) released the following statement on federal funding allocated to 15 health care centers in New York's 13th congressional district totaling more than $21 million dollars to provide care and assistance during the ongoing efforts to address the coronavirus. "Health care workers, hospitals, medical centers and emergency personnel are on the front lines of our efforts t  more

Rep. Espaillat Leads Democratic Members to Demand Spanish, Multi-Language Access to IRS Payment Portal
NEW YORK, April 17 -- Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), along with Reps. Nydia Velazquez and Jose E. Serrano is leading nearly 40 of his colleagues calling on Vice President Mike Pence, Treasury Secretary Mnuchin, and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Charles P. Rettig to ensure access to vital information and forms through the Economic Impact Payments (EIP) web portal for millions of non-English speakers.   more

Rep. Gottheimer, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan Delegations Demanding More Federal Aid for States Hit Hardest by COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release: New Jersey Representatives Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) and Chris Smith (NJ-4), along with New York Representatives Tom Suozzi (NY-3), Peter King (NY-2), Hakeem Jeffries (NY-8), and Tom Reed (NY-23), are leading a bipartisan request from the entirety of both New York and New Jersey's House delegations to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Leader Mitch McConnell. The delegations are unanimously requesting the c  more

Rep. Higgins Announces COVID-19 Relief Grants Available for Art Organizations
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced grants are available through the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) to provide financial assistance for local arts organizations impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. Congress included $75 million in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to support the arts industry. Higgins said, "Arts and culture play an important role in Western New   more

Rep. Higgins Announces Federal Fire Grants Available to Support Staffing & Recruitment
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant application period is now open with a deadline of May 15, 2020 at 5:00pm. "Activities related to firefighter recruitment, hiring and retention are a constant focus for both career and volunteer departments," said Congressman Higgins. "The SAFER program supports efforts to ensure fire stations a  more

Rep. Higgins Announces Launch of 'Get My Payment' Portal
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced residents can now check the status of direct payments provided through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The U.S. Treasury announced the launch of the "Get My Payment" App, which allows Americans to track the status of their emergency relief funding and add bank direct deposit information if the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) doesn'  more

Rep. Higgins Announces Over $23.53 Million in Emergency Funding for Local Airports
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced a total of $23,539,403 in federal funding to support local airports whose operations have been impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. "Travel restrictions have led to only essential travel, emptying out our airports of most passengers, while still requiring airports to operate," said Congressman Higgins. "This provides critical resources to help maintain vital serv  more

Rep. Higgins Pushes for Congressional Action to Protect the Post Office
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Brian Higgins, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) is pushing for Congress to approve the Protect Our Post Offices Act (H.R. 6425), legislation appropriating $25 billion in emergency funding to the United States Postal Service (USPS) for financial hardship related to the coronavirus outbreak. Higgins said, "Postal workers continue to provide an essential service, delivering medication and critical needs to households dur  more

Rep. Katko Announces Nearly $13 Million in CARES Act Funds for Syracuse Hancock International Airport
SYRACUSE, New York, April 15 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) announced $12.9 million in funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for Syracuse Hancock International Airport. These funds, available through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, will be used to cover expenses related to preventing and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. "It is imperative Syracuse Hancock International Airport h  more

Rep. Katko Announces Nearly $30 Million in CARES Act Funding to Support Students at Central New York Colleges & Universities
SYRACUSE, New York, April 18 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release on April 17: U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) announced that nearly $30 million in funds from the U.S. Department of Education will be distributed to Cayuga Community College, the Cayuga - Onondaga BOCES, Le Moyne College, Onondaga Community College, the Oswego County BOCES, SUNY Oswego, SUNY Upstate Medical University, SUNY College of Environment Science & Forestry, Syracuse University, the Wayne - Finge  more

Rep. Katko Applauds IRS for Allowing Supplemental Security Income Recipients to Receive Automatic COVID-19 Economic Impact Payments
SYRACUSE, New York, April 16 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. Katko (R, NY-24) applauded the IRS policy change that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will now automatically receive Economic Impact Payments directly to their bank accounts through direct deposit, Direct Express debit card, or by paper check, just as they would normally receive SSI benefits. This announcement comes after Rep. Katko and U.S. Rep Grace F. Napolitano (D-CA-32)   more

Rep. Katko Appointed to Bipartisan, Bicameral Task Force Advising White House on Reopening the Economy
SYRACUSE, New York, April 17 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following statement named to serve on the President Trump's bipartisan, bicameral, Task Force on Reopening the Economy: "There is no question that working families, small businesses, and our economy as a whole have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and rebuilding our economy will require significant attention across party lines and at all levels of government". "I am honored to be named to the bipartisan, b  more

Rep. Katko Calls for Additional Support for First Responders in Central New York During Coronavirus Pandemic
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) this week urged House Leaders to include additional support for first responders in Central New York and across New York State in future COVID-19 relief legislation. With New York State leading the nation in confirmed COVID-19 cases, local first responders are routinely in physical contact with potentially infected persons. In Central New York, a short supply of personal protect  more

Rep. Katko Leads Bipartisan Effort to Provide Unfunded Mandate Relief for State & Local Governments
SYRACUSE, New York, April 16 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) led a bipartisan effort urging House and Senate Leadership to support state and local governments by making them eligible for emergency paid family and sick leave payroll tax credits. This week, Rep. Katko will also introduce legislation that will make this bipartisan fix. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act required public and private sector employers to offer e  more

Rep. Katko Leads Bipartisan Initiative to Ensure Central New Yorkers Have Access to Clean Drinking Water
SYRACUSE, New York, April 14 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24), called on House Leadership to include bipartisan measures that ensure access to clean drinking water in any future COVID-19 relief package. With rising unemployment in communities across the country, more and more families are struggling to pay their water and utility bills. As a result, water authorities have seen significant reductions in their revenue which may requi  more

Rep. Katko: Congress Must Immediately Replenish Funds for Paycheck Protection Program
SYRACUSE, New York, April 17 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: Following news that the Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is exhausted of funds and can no longer approve new loan applications, U.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) urged Congressional Leaders to come together to produce a bipartisan agreement: "Since it was authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the Paycheck Protection Program (  more

Rep. Keller Calls on Governor Wolf to Work With Pennsylvania Officials on Plan to Reopen Economy
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Fred Keller, R-Pennsylvania, issued the following news release: Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) on Tuesday called on Gov. Tom Wolf to work with Pennsylvania officials on a plan to eventually re-open the Commonwealth's economy as COVID-19 cases decline. Congressman Keller's comments were made on the Fox News program Fox & Friends First Tuesday morning after Gov. Wolf announced on Monday that he is joining a coalition of Democrat governors from other states to form a   more

Rep. King: New Coronavirus Testing Sites
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Pete King, R-New York, issued the following news release: Due to particularly devastating impact of the Coronavirus in the communities of Brentwood, Central Islip, North Amityville and Wyandanch new testing will be opening in those areas beginning on April 16th. Testing is by appointment only. See photos here (https://peteking.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/new-coronavirus-covid-19-testing-sites)  more

Rep. Krishnamoorthi Seeks Documents on Ventilators Meant to Supply Federal Stockpile
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release on April 15: Today, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy, sent a letter requesting documents and information from Philips North America Corporation regarding its contract to produce low-cost, portable ventilators intended to be stockpiled by the federal government in the event of a pandemic, like  more

Rep. Lowey Announces $1.75 Million in COVID-19 Funding to New York Museums and Libraries to Expand Broadband Access
WHITE PLAINS, New York, April 15 -- Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY17/Rockland-Westchester) announced $1,757,940 in federal funding for the New York State Library Administrative Agency through the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) funded in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to help expand digital network access for New Yorkers. In the face of the COVID-19 emergency, these funds will suppor  more

Rep. Lowey Announces $163 Million in Federal Funding to Help New York Child Care Providers Maintain Services, Recover From Impacts of COVID-19
WHITE PLAINS, New York, April 17 -- Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY17/Rockland-Westchester) announced $163,636,242 in federal funding to support the New York State Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) through the Health and Human Services (HHS) program funded in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. This funding will help child care providers throughout New York State stay open to care for the chi  more

Rep. Lowey Announces $164 Million to New York State to Address K-12 and Higher Education COVID-19 Needs
WHITE PLAINS, New York, April 16 -- Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY17/Rockland-Westchester) announced that New York State Governor Cuomo will have access to $164,286,083 through the Governors Emergency Education Relief Fund. Congresswoman Lowey helped lead the House negotiations with Senate Republicans and the Trump Administration on the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that included a total of at least $2   more

Rep. Lowey Announces $753,367 for Hudson River Healthcare COVID-19 Telehealth Services
WHITE PLAINS, New York, April 18 -- Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, issued the following news release on April 17: Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY17/Rockland-Westchester) announced that Hudson River Healthcare, Inc., will receive $753,367 in COVID-19 relief funding for telehealth services and the expansion of its frontline coronavirus testing and treatment programs. This funding, awarded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), also ensures the high volume of low-income, uninsured, or underi  more

Rep. Lowey Announces More Than $23 Million in Federal Funding to Help Westchester County Airport Recover From Impacts of COVID-19
WHITE PLAINS, New York, April 15 -- Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY17/Rockland-Westchester) announced $23,607,111 in federal funding for Westchester County Airport through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) program funded in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to help with the costs of continuing operations of airports during the COVID-19 pandemic, assist with lost revenue resulting from the decline  more

Rep. Lowey Announces Nearly $44 Million for Rockland and Westchester Higher Education Institutions Impacted by Coronavirus Outbreak
WHITE PLAINS, New York, April 17 -- Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY17/Rockland-Westchester) announced that 21 institutions of higher education in New York's 17th Congressional District (NY-17), which covers all of Rockland County and part of Westchester County, will receive $43,702,277 in federal funding to cover costs associated with the spread of COVID-19. Half of these funds, $21,851,144, will go directly to student emergency fin  more

Rep. Lowey: Indian Point Expert Evaluation Team Findings Must Lead to Nuclear Regulatory Commission Reform
WHITE PLAINS, New York, April 16 -- Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New York, issued the following news release on April 15: Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland), Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, said that today's report by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Indian Point Expert Evaluation Team reflects concerns she and her constituents raised starting in October 2015 and substantiates many of the claims made in the NRC Inspector General (IG)'s February 2020 inquiry. In   more

Rep. Maloney Issues Statement on Trump Administration's Request to Delay Key Aspects of 2020 Census
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following statement on April 13 after participating in a conference call by the White House to convey a request from the Trump administration to delay key aspects of the 2020 Census as a result of the coronavirus crisis: "As Chairwoman of the authorizing committee for the Census Bureau, I am committed to a complete and accurate Census count. The Oversight Committee will c  more

Rep. Maloney: DHS Officials Refuse to Release Asylum Seekers, Other Non-Violent Detainees Despite Spread of Coronavirus
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release on April 17: Today, Acting Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Matthew T. Albence and Acting Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Mark Morgan briefed the Committee on Oversight and Reform on how the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is addressing coronavirus risks in immigration detention facilities. Rep. Caroly  more

Rep. Maloney: Experts Warn That Census Bureau Must Work With Congress to Ensure Complete, Accurate Census in Wake of Coronavirus Crisis
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release: This week, leading experts provided a telephone briefing to Members of the Committee on Oversight and Reform on the impact of the coronavirus crisis on the 2020 Census and the Trump Administration's recent request for Congress to delay statutory deadlines by 120 days. "The Census Bureau has an extremely difficult task in achieving a complete and a  more

Rep. Maloney: Key House Democrats Call for Increased Voter Protections and Funding in Wake of Coronavirus Crisis
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release: Leading House Democrats with oversight over federal elections and voting rights called for additional voter protections and funding to ensure safe and orderly elections in the wake of dangerous conditions during last week's primary election in Wisconsin. The following statement was issued by Committee on House Administration Chairperson Zoe Lofgr  more

Rep. Maloney: Oversight, Financial Services Committee Chairs Seek Briefing on FDIC's Readiness for Financial Crisis During Pandemic
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release: Oversight and Reform Committee Chairwoman Carolyn B. Maloney, Financial Services Committee Chairwoman Maxine Waters, and Oversight Economic and Consumer Policy Subcommittee Chairman Raja Krishnamoorthi sent a letter to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) seeking information on the agency's preparedness for a financial crisis as coronav  more

Rep. Maloney: Temporarily Remove E-Cigarettes Despite Potential Risks to Coronavirus Patients
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release: This week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) briefed staff of the Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy about the agency's response to the potential health risks e-cigarettes pose to users affected by coronavirus. "FDA needs to be a leader in a crisis, and on vaping it is not," Chairman Raja Krishnamoorthi said. "Studies indicate that  more

Rep. Meeks Calls to Replenish PPP Fund With Greater Transparency and Data on MWBE Participation
NEW YORK, April 17 -- Rep. Gregory W. Meeks, D-New York, issued the following statement regarding the exhaustion of Paycheck Protection Program funds: "Small businesses are the beating heart of our economy. The $349 billion in small business funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and other initiatives has given companies in my community and around the nation a life bridge to survive shutdowns and forced closures, while also providing a strong incentive for small businesses to rehire   more

Rep. Meeks Demands Answers Amid Coronavirus Outbreak at GEO Queens Detention Facility
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Gregory W. Meeks, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representatives Gregory W. Meeks addressed a letter to the Facility Administrator of the GEO Queens Detention Facility regarding its coronavirus outbreak, where 25 inmates and 10 facility staff were tested positive. The Congressman's letter requested the facility to release additional information about the status of inmates, its plan to control the outbreak given the confined and shared space, and acce  more

Rep. Meng Announces Coronavirus Funding for Charles B. Wang Community Health Center in Flushing
QUEENS, New York, April 16 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) announced that the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center in Flushing has been awarded federal funding to help respond to the coronavirus pandemic. The facility has received more than $1.6 million ($1,669,415) to provide assistance and care for COVID-19, and to address staffing levels during this public health emergency. The funds are allocated under the Coronavirus A  more

Rep. Meng Announces New Online Portal for Coronavirus Relief Payments
QUEENS, New York, April 17 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following news release: With coronavirus relief payments now going out to taxpayers, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) announced that the U.S. Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) have launched "Get My Payment," an online portal that allows taxpayers to track the status of their payment. The portal also allows taxpayers to submit their direct deposit information if they did not do so when they filed their 201  more

Rep. Meng Calls for Greater White House Response to COVID-19 Outbreak in Long Term Care Facilities in N.Y.
QUEENS, New York, April 16 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following statement on April 15: U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) called for a greater White House response to the COVID-19 outbreak in long term care facilities in New York. She issued the following statement. "New York is the epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak. It is the hardest hit area and needs more resources and funding, not just for our hospitals, but our long term care facilities where the most vulnerable population r  more

Rep. Meng Introduces Legislation to Extend Work Permits for Immigrants During COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens), a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, announced the introduction of legislation that seeks to extend work permits for immigrants, many of whom are serving as essential workers on the frontlines of combating the coronavirus pandemic. Meng's bill, the COVID-19 Employment Authorization Document Extension Act, would automatically extend the leng  more

Rep. Morelle Announces $4.7 Million for Local Community Health Centers to Respond to COVID-19
ROCHESTER, New York, April 18 -- Rep. Joseph Morelle, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Joe Morelle announced that $4.7 million for community health centers in Monroe County to help respond to the COVID-19 global health crisis. These funds were awarded through the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and made available through the CARES Act recently passed by Congress which allocated $1.3 billion to support these healthcare providers. "Our commun  more

Rep. Morelle Announces $9.7 Million in Emergency Funding to Support Community Development Needs
ROCHESTER, New York, April 15 -- Rep. Joseph Morelle, D-New York, issued the following news release on April 14: Congressman Joe Morelle announced more than $9.7 million in emergency funding for our local community to combat the impacts of COVID-19 on vulnerable populations. The funding has been allocated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) to the City of Rochester, towns of Greece and Ir  more

Rep. Nadler, Reps. Rose, Pascrell Introduce Legislation to Compensate Public Safety Officers Who Are Disabled or Die From COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, issued the following news release: House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Representative Max Rose (D-NY), and Co-Chair of the Congressional Law Enforcement Caucus Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ), introduced the Public Safety Officer Pandemic Response Act of 2020. This legislation would expand an existing federal program to ensure that public safety officers who contract COVID-19 in the line of duty are eligible  more

Rep. Nadler: House, Senate Judiciary Lawmakers Seek Information on USPTO Operations Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- 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 Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet Chairman Henry C. "Hank" Johnson, Jr. (D-GA) sent a letter toUnder Secretary of Commerce For Intellectual Property and U.S. Department of Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Director Andrei Iancu requesting information on the impact the co  more

Rep. Nadler: House, Senate Judiciary Lawmakers Seek Information on USPTO Operations Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, issued the following news release: House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet Chairman Henry C. "Hank" Johnson, Jr. (D-GA) sent a letter to Under Secretary of Commerce For Intellectual Property and U.S. Department of Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Director Andrei Iancu requesting information on the impact the coronavirus public health crisis has had on   more

Rep. Pallone Urges Verma to Immediately Release CMS Data on Health Disparities Among COVID-19 Patients
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-New Jersey, chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following news release on April 15: Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) wrote to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Seema Verma today urging the agency to immediately release demographic data on the health outcomes of COVID-19 based on race, ethnicity and gender. According to currently available data, individuals from raci  more

Rep. Pressley, Colleagues Call on Trump Administration to Ensure That Minority-Owned Small Businesses Are Not Shut Out of Funding
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Gregory W. Meeks, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representatives Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07) and Gregory Meeks (D-NY-05) and Senators Kamala D. Harris (D-CA) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) led Democratic lawmakers in calling for the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Treasury Department to ensure that minority-owned businesses are not shut out of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The lawmakers also called for the Administration to amend guidance on  more

Rep. Reed Announces $4.6 Million in Funding for District Airports
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Tom Reed, R-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Tom Reed is proud to announce $4,638,156 in funding is being released to airports throughout the district. The funds are being released by the Federal Aviation Administration. "We care about making sure our airports have fair access to the funds they need to function," said Tom. "Our infrastructure is of vital importance, and it is critical to maintain its capacity. That is why we were proud to fight for  more

Rep. Rose Continues Push for Congress to Restore Small Business Funding, Support Hospitals, State and Local Governments
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release on April 17: Following his call yesterday to provide immediate relief without partisan provisions or political nonsense, Congressman Max Rose issued the following statement urging Congressional leaders to quickly pass legislation to fund economic relief programs for small businesses and nonprofits, as well as provide critical funding for hospitals, state and local governments that are bearing the brunt of the c  more

Rep. Rose Returns From National Guard Deployment
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Max Rose, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Max Rose returned from a two-week deployment with the National Guard to assist in the coronavirus response on Staten Island. Rose, who serves as a Captain in the National Guard, worked as an Operations Officer in helping set up the 262-bed emergency hospital at South Beach Psychiatric Center on Staten Island. "What I did was nothing compared to what our essential workers are doing every single day  more

Rep. Serrano Joins Reps. Espaillat, Velaquez in Leading Democratic Members to Demand Spanish, Multi-Language Access to IRS Payment Portal
NEW YORK, April 17 -- Rep. Jose E. Serrano, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representatives Jose E. Serrano, Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), and Reps. Nydia Velazquez led nearly 40 of their colleagues calling on Vice President Mike Pence, Treasury Secretary Mnuchin, and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Charles P. Rettig to ensure access to vital information and forms through the Economic Impact Payments (EIP) web portal for millions of non-English speakers. "In this critic  more

Rep. Serrano's Statement on Department of Commerce Plan to Delay 2020 Census Operations
THE BRONX, New York, April 15 -- Rep. Jose E. Serrano, D-New York, issued the following statement: Congressman Jose E. Serrano released the following statement on the Census Bureau's proposal to adjust and delay 2020 Census operations in response to the coronavirus pandemic: "As Chairman of the Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS) Appropriations Subcommittee with jurisdiction over the Census Bureau, I am very concerned about the havoc that the Coronavirus pandemic is having on the implementation a  more

Rep. Stefanik Announces Federal Relief Funding for Local Airports
SARATOGA, New York, April 16 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has announced over $5.9 million in grant funding for North Country Airports. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently announced the CARES Act Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant allocations, totaling $9.1 billion for airports across the United States. A portion of that funding will be distributed to airports in the North Country: * Floyd Bennett Memoria  more

Rep. Stefanik Announces Over $26 Million in NY-21 Higher Education Funding From CARES Act
SARATOGA, New York, April 16 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has announced over $26 million in funding for NY-21 colleges and universities from the CARES Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over half will go to students in the form of financial aid grants. A full breakdown is below. "College students across the country have seen their lives and education significantly disrupted due to the COVID-19 crisis," said Congressw  more

Rep. Stefanik Announces Over $26 Million in NY-21 Higher Education Funding From CARES Act
SARATOGA, New York, April 17 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has announced over $26 million in funding for NY-21 colleges and universities from the CARES Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over half will go to students in the form of financial aid grants. A full breakdown is below. "College students across the country have seen their lives and education significantly disrupted due to the COVID-19 crisis," said Congress  more

Rep. Stefanik Announces Over $3 Million in FTA Funding for Glens Falls
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has announced $3,458,374 in Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funding through the CARES Act will be provided to the City of Glens Falls. This funding will support operating expenses necessary to maintain operational ability, system readiness, and respond to community transit needs during the COVID-19 emergency and after. "Our North Country communities need direct assist  more

Rep. Stefanik Cosponsors Bill to Allow Rural Communities to Develop High-Speed Broadband Through EDA Grants
SARATOGA, New York, April 18 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is cosponsoring the Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-BRIDGE) Act, legislation to ensure rural communities have access to Economic Development Administration (EDA) grants in order to develop high-speed broadband access during the COVID-19 crisis. This bill eliminates barriers for broadband projects under EDA grants ensuring that N  more

Rep. Stefanik Highlights U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Save Small Business Initiative
SARATOGA, New York, April 17 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is highlighting the recently announced U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation "Save Small Business Grant Fund." This important program provides $5,000 grants to small business owners who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The application will go live on the U.S. Chamber Foundation page on April 20th, 2020. "Our small businesses are critically important to the   more

Rep. Stefanik Named to Bipartisan Task Force on Reopening the Economy by President Trump
SARATOGA, New York, April 17 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: President Trump announced Congresswoman Elise Stefanik will be serving on the bipartisan Task Force on Reopening the Economy, focused on restarting the economy after the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic is contained. "I am honored to be named to the bipartisan Task Force on Reopening the Economy by President Trump," said Congresswoman Stefanik. "Over the past month, I have been speaking directly   more

Rep. Stefanik Requests More Funding for Community Health Centers
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Stefanik sent a bipartisan letter to House Leadership requesting more support for Community Health Centers (CHC's) in the phase 4 COVID-19 legislative relief package. Specifically, the letter outlines the need for funds in order to continue to serve medically underserved communities in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and requests $7.6 billion in emergency supplemental funding to support   more

Rep. Stefanik Requests Nursing Home Funding From HHS and CMS
SARATOGA, New York, April 18 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik sent a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) requesting that they prioritize funding for nursing homes, especially those in COVID-19 "hot spots", to meet their needs. According to data provided by the New York State Department of Health, at least 2,000 nursing homes residents across New Y  more

Rep. Stefanik Requests Parity for Seasonal Businesses
SARATOGA, New York, April 16 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik sent a letter to Congressional Leadership requesting additional flexibility for seasonal businesses when calculating their average payroll for Paycheck Protection Program loans, ensuring the maximum amount they are eligible for is not weighed down by weeks they are not in operation. The letter urges leadership to make adjustments so the amount of funding seasonal busi  more

Rep. Stefanik Sends Letter Requesting Direct Funding for Local Governments and Counties in Phase 4 of COVID-19 Relief
SARATOGA, New York, April 18 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik bipartisan members of the New York delegation in sending a letter to House Leadership requesting that phase 4 of Congress' response to the COVID-19 crisis includes an expansion of the state stabilization fund from the CARES Act for direct funding to local governments and counties, regardless of population. "North Country local governments are providing critical resou  more

Rep. Suozzi Joins Chinese American Not-for-Profits to Deliver 1,000 Pieces of Personal Protective Equipment to Glen Cove Center
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Thomas Suozzi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-Long Island, Queens) and two nonprofit Chinese American organizations, working together, delivered more than 1,000 pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) to the Glen Cove Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation to assist the center's staff as they help stop the spread of COVID-19. The donation consisted of protective coverall gowns (75 pieces), goggles (150 pieces), face shi  more

Rep. Suozzi Leads Bipartisan Delegations Demanding More Federal Aid for States Hit Hardest by COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Thomas Suozzi, D-New York, issued the following news release: On Friday, New York Members Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Congressman Peter King (NY-02), Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08) and Congressman Tom Reed (NY-23) and New Jersey Members Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), and Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04), sent a bipartisan letter with 100% of each state's delegations to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Leader Mitch McConnell. The delegations unanimously   more

Rep. Suozzi, Colleagues in Leading Unanimous Support From Bipartisan N.Y. Delegations to Demand Fair Federal Funding Formula for Hospitals
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Thomas Suozzi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-Long Island, Queens), Congressman Peter King (R-NY-02), Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16), Senate Democratic Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and every Member of the New York Congressional Delegation sent a bipartisan letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Alex Azar and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrato  more

Rep. Tonko Cheers 200K Grant Funding Research to Address N95 Mask Shortage
AMSTERDAM, New York, April 18 -- Rep. Paul D. Tonko, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Paul D. Tonko announced that Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has been awarded a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant totaling $200,000 towards research seeking to extend the usable life of critically needed N95 respirators and other personal protective equipment (PPE). "For our frontline health care workers, access to PPE is a matter of life and death," Congressman Tonko said. "A  more

Rep. Tonko Joins Dairy Caucus to Champion Relief for Farmers
AMSTERDAM, New York, April 16 -- Rep. Paul D. Tonko, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representative Paul D. Tonko joined his colleagues in a bipartisan letter urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support dairy farmers facing an economic crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "Dairy farms are the backbone of rural economies across the country," wrote the Representatives. "However, the dairy industry is now facing unprecedented and extensive economic damage due to the  more

Rep. Velazquez Condemns Media Suppression in Puerto Rico
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez, D-New York, issued the following statement regarding reports that the Puerto Rico government was denying journalists access to government coronavirus briefings: "A free, independent press is the hallmark of any democracy and actions by the Puerto Rican government to prevent journalists from covering its response to COVID-19 are shameful. "During crises, such as a pandemic, it is more important, not less, that the public be fully informed and tha  more

Rep. Velazquez Issues Statement on Status of SBA COVID-19 Relief Loan Funding
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Small Business Committee, issued the following statement on the status of funding for the paycheck protection program: "The intent of the Paycheck Protection Program has always been to help Main Street businesses across America that are facing gut-wrenching decisions over payroll costs, rent bills, and the health and safety of their employees and customers. "Unfortunately, during the program's rollout, we hav  more

Rep. Zeldin Calls for Urgent Congressional Action on 3 Vital Coronavirus Funding Priorities
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the bipartisan White House Opening Up America Again Congressional Group and bipartisan Congressional Coronavirus Task Force, issued the following statement calling for urgent Congressional action on three vital coronavirus response priorities: 1 Replenishing funds for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program to help sm  more

Rep. Zeldin Secures 10,000 KN95 Mask Donation From Tunnel to Towers Foundation to Suffolk County for Front Line Workers
PATCHOGUE, New York, April 13 -- 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, secured a donation that arrived of 10,000 KN95 Masks from the Stephen Siller Tunnel To Towers Foundation to Suffolk County to be distributed to front line workers during the ongoing outbreak of coronavirus. "This latest donation of vital PPE is yet another example of how New Yorkers have come together t  more

Rep. Zeldin: Non-Partisan Teamwork to Deliver PPE to Our Local Front Line Work Force
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-New York, issued the following news release: Our local medical professionals, first responders, law enforcement officers and so many others are giving their all, putting themselves and their loved ones at risk to protect our communities' most vulnerable. Every level of government and every Long Islander has a responsibility to do everything possible to keep them safe, and this means ensuring they have the critical Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) th  more

Reps. Brindisi, Stefanik Lead Group of N.Y. Delegation Members to Call for Relief for Dairy Farmers Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-New York, issued the following news release: Congressman Anthony Brindisi (NY-22) and Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21) led a New York delegation letter to Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue calling for swift and decisive action from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to assist dairy farmers. "As Members of New York's Congressional Delegation, we represent a robust community of dairy farmers who have lost direct markets due to the   more

Reps. Espaillat, Meng Call for Key Food Assistance Program to Allow Hot Food Purchases
NEW YORK, April 15 -- Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Reps. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) and Grace Meng (D-NY) join efforts to call for a key food assistance program to include hot food during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a letter they led to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, the lawmakers urged the agency to allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries to purchase hot food from retailers for the duration of the coronavirus cr  more

Reps. Katko, Brindisi: Additional Resources Are Needed to Support Central N.Y. Domestic Violence Shelters
SYRACUSE, New York, April 16 -- Rep. John Katko, R-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Reps. John Katko (NY-24) and Anthony Brindisi (NY-22), urged House and Senate leaders to prioritize additional resources in any future COVID-19 relief package for organizations on the front lines in preventing domestic violence and sexual assault. Over the past few weeks, Reps. Katko and Brindisi have spoken with representatives from local organizations such as Vera House, the Young Women's Chr  more

Reps. Maloney, Pallone, Sen. Murray Urge Secretary Azar to Lift Restrictions on Use of Fetal Tissue in COVID-19 Research
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Rep. Carolyn Maloney, D-New York, chairwoman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, issued the following news release: House Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), House Oversight and Reform Chairwoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) and Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-WA) sent a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar urging the Administration to immediately reverse i  more

Reps. Meeks & Tipton Ask Treasury to Issue Debit Cards for Stimulus Checks
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Rep. Gregory W. Meeks, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representatives Gregory W. Meeks and Scott Tipton addressed a letter to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin asking the Treasury to consider issuing debit cards to Americans, creating low/no-cost bank accounts where they'd be able to immediately access funds such as stimulus checks. Though Treasury is expected to begin releasing stimulus checks this coming week, unbanked Americans and those who have not p  more

Reps. Meeks, Jeffries, Clarke Host Black Elected Officials Conference to Address Black Community Needs During Pandemic
NEW YORK, April 17 -- Rep. Gregory W. Meeks, D-New York, issued the following joint statement: Representatives Gregory W. Meeks, Hakeem Jefferies and Yvette D. Clarke hosted yesterday the first New York Black Elected Officials conference, creating a forum for black lawmakers to discuss the needs of their community in light of coronavirus, and coordinate action across all levels of government. "We've seen across America that Black and Brown communities are bearing the brunt of coronavirus, espe  more

Reps. Meng, Espaillat Call for Key Food Assistance Program to Allow Hot Food Purchases
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- Rep. Grace Meng, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Reps. Grace Meng (D-NY) and Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) called for a key food assistance program to include hot food during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a letter they led to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, the lawmakers urged the agency to allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries to purchase hot food from retailers for the duration of the coronavirus crisis. Currently, SN  more

Reps. Morelle, Chu Take Action to Ensure American Families Receive Full Stimulus Checks
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Rep. Joseph Morelle, D-New York, issued the following news release: Rep. Joe Morelle and Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27), Chair of the House Small Business Subcommittee on Investigations, Oversight, and Regulations, led 70 of their colleagues in a letter to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Charles Rettig urging them to prevent financial institutions from diverting Americans' forthcoming economic stimulus checks to pay off outstandin  more

Reps. Nadler, Cohen Send Letter to Democratic Caucus on President Trump's Assertion of 'Total' Authority
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-New York, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, issued the following news release: Following President Trump's false assertion that he has "total" authority to "reopen the economy" and to order States to relax social distancing measures, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties Chairman Steve Cohen (D-TN) sent a letter to the Democratic Caucus outlining the  more

Reps. Stefanik, Brindisi Send Letter to USDA Requesting Relief for Dairy Farmers
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, issued the following news release: Congresswoman Stefanik and Congressman Anthony Brindisi (D-NY-22) have led a bipartisan letter to USDA requesting immediate assistance for upstate New York dairy farmers, many of whom have lost direct markets due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The letter, signed by members of the New York Congressional delegation, requests swift action by USDA, including direct payments and reimbursements for dumped milk, in   more

Reps. Tonko, Delgado, Stefanik Denounce NHTSA's Refusal to Adopt Limo Safety Standards
AMSTERDAM, New York, April 15 -- Rep. Paul D. Tonko, D-New York, issued the following news release: Representatives Paul D. Tonko, Antonio Delgado and Elise Stefanik sent a letter to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Administrator James Owens expressing their concern about the Administration's refusal to adopt critical limousine safety recommendations produced by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in the wake of the Schoharie limousine crash that took the lives  more

Sen. Cruz Submits Op-Ed on Coronavirus
HOUSTON, Texas, April 15 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, issued the following op-ed on coronavirus, which was provided to the New York Post: In his new op-ed in the New York Post, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), warns about the dangers of "pandemic authoritarianism" and urges state and local leaders to protect Americans' civil liberties as we all work together to combat the novel coronavirus. As Sen. Cruz writes: "This crisis has shown us the character of the American people. We have seen that Ameri  more

Sen. Gillibrand Pushes For Emergency Voter Protections in Next Phase of Coronavirus Relief Legislation
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand called on Senate leadership to provide emergency funding and provisions in the next phase of coronavirus relief legislation in order to protect Americans' constitutional right to vote. The unprecedented national crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic has raised concerns over election security and the need for immediate action to reinforce voting rights in November 2  more

Sen. Gillibrand Submits Op-Ed on FAMILY Act
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following op-ed on the FAMILY Act, published in the Time Magazine: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, the foremost champion of paid medical and family leave in the U.S. Senate, wrote an op-ed for Time Magazine on her landmark legislation, the FAMILY Act. In the piece, Gillibrand highlights how the current COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the urgent need for a universal paid medical and family leave policy in the United Sta  more

Sen. Gillibrand Urges Amazon, Walmart to Waive Delivery Fees and Minimum Order Requirements For Snap Recipients
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling on Amazon and Walmart to eliminate delivery fees and minimum order requirements for customers using SNAP benefits. As more New Yorkers have turned to grocery delivery services amidst the coronavirus pandemic, additional costs -- such as fees and minimum order requirements -- have placed additional financial strain on food insecure families. The inability to   more

Sen. Gillibrand Urges HHS to Protect Older Adults and People With Disabilities From COVID-19 Treatment Discrimination
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, member of the Senate Aging Committee, called on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Seema Verma, and HHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR) Director Roger Severino to ensure the equitable distribution of health care during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the coronavirus outbreak strains   more

Sen. Gillibrand, Delgado Urge Congress to Provide Direct Relief to New York's Rural Communities Struggling to Respond to COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 17 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Congressman Antonio Delgado (D-NY-19) urged Congress to include robust funding for rural communities in the next coronavirus relief package. Rural communities often operate on very thin margins and the coronavirus pandemic has caused these already struggling communities to lose valuable resources as they continue to operate with diminished sales tax returns,  more

Sen. Schumer Calls President Trump to Immediately Approve New York's Cost-Share Waiver, Pick Up 100% of Coronavirus Disaster Costs
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-New York, issued the following news release: Following a successful push for the Trump administration to approve New York State's coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic Major Disaster Declaration request, unlocking billions in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) money for New York, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer today doubled down on his push to have the federal government cover the entire cost of federal disaster a  more

Sen. Schumer: As Coronavirus Continues to Spread Throughout Country Feds Roll Back Food Safety Guidelines, Inspectors
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-New York, issued the following news release: As coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread throughout the country, making New York its epicenter with over 10,000 deaths, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer today urged the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to immediately clarify its plan to address the lack over oversight and inspection of the American food supply system - to restore peace of mind to millions. Last month, the FDA an  more

Sen. Schumer: N.Y Delegation Calls on President Trump to Provide State 100% Federal Funding for All FEMA Coronavirus Disaster Work
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-New York, issued the following news release: New York's entire 28 member bipartisan delegation sent a letter to President Donald Trump, urging he expeditiously grant New York State a waiver to provide 100% federal funding for all Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) emergency work in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. The representatives asked that any eligible work paid for through the Disaster Relief Fund (DR  more

Senate Minority Leader Schumer, Sen. Gillibrand Urge Administration to Protect Frontline Transit Workers, Update Safety Guidelines
WASHINGTON, April 14 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand joined Senate colleagues urging the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to update safety guidelines and ensure all frontline transit workers have access to personal protective equipment (PPE). Ensuring that we have safe and reliable public transit is indispensable for healthcare workers, first responders, grocery and   more

Sens. Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Over $411 Million in Emergency Federal Funding for New York Airports as Part of CARES Act
WASHINGTON, April 15 -- Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-New York, issued the following news release: As part of the Schumer-negotiated CARES Act economic relief available to U.S. airports nearly grounded by the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, U.S. Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $411,274,414.22 in federal funding allocated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for airports all across New York State. The CARES Act provides funds to inc  more

Vice News Featuring Senator Gillibrand: 'How Congress Gets Away With Insider Trading Even Though It's Against the Law'
WASHINGTON, April 18 -- Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, issued the following news release: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand appeared on Vice News this week and called for members of Congress to stop profiteering on the COVID-19 health crisis by buying and selling stocks while privy to non-public information. Senator Gillibrand has been one of the most vocal advocates for transparency and accountability in the Senate. In 2012, Gillibrand authored and passed the STOCK Act to effectively close  more

Washington Post, New York Times Highlight Sen. Portman Efforts to Implement Remote Senate Voting During National Crises
WASHINGTON, April 16 -- Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, issued the following news release: Recently, the Washington Post and the New York Times have highlighted Senator Portman's efforts to implement remote voting in the Senate during national crises like the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. According to a recent poll, 80 percent of the American people support remote voting during emergencies like a pandemic. Portman's bipartisan resolution would amend the Senate rules to allow senators to vote remotely  more