url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-federal-highway-administration-has-heeded-his-calls-and-approved-plan-for-long-sought-crash-gate-for-emergency-vehicles-to-improve-safety-on-i-84,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION HAS HEEDED HIS CALLS AND APPROVED PLAN FOR LONG-SOUGHT CRASH GATE FOR EMERGENCY VEHICLES TO IMPROVE SAFETY ON I-84,2023-12-27,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"After launching his push earlier this year following the bus crash on I-84 in Orange County that tragically killed two adults and injured dozens of Farmingdale High School students, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has heeded his calls to assist New York State and local officials with the creation of an emergency vehicles-only access road, also known as a “crash gate” on I-84. “The tragic bus crash in Orange County this past September was just one of many a horrific tragedies that have taken place on Interstate 84 and plagued communities across New York with fear about the ability of first responders to quickly respond to these dangerous and sometimes deadly accidents,” said Senator Schumer. “First responders in Orange County have long called for the installation of a life-saving crash gate, and finally, after I called on the FHWA to support our local officials and help keep New Yorkers safe by working with them to greenlight this long desired safety project, I am proud to announce the federal agency has heeded our calls and has officially approved construction on an emergency crash gate for I-84. In an emergency every minute and second counts, and I will continue to fight to deliver the federal resources needed so our first responders can continue to save lives in Orange County and beyond.” A copy of Schumer’s original join letter to the Federal Highway Administration demanding further action to approve plans for the crash gate can be found here. Schumer said the construction of a crash gate for I-84 was first proposed over a decade ago, but the original proposal was never finalized. He explained that following his continued advocacy, the FHWA has officially approved the long-stalled state plan to install an emergency access point between the Goshen and Mountain Road exits — the more than a 10-mile stretch of the interstate that prevents timely emergency responses and currently sees about c per year. Currently, the Slate Hill Fire District’s trucks can only access the highway in a roundabout way, which makes response times longer. Schumer said that September’s bus crash and other recent accidents demonstrated the troubling lack of access to I-84 that exists for first responders in the area. The Slate Hill Fire District’s closest entrance to I-84 is four miles from the firehouse, requiring its trucks to travel into another neighboring fire district just to enter the interstate. By constructing a first responders-only access road built between the eastbound and westbound highways, a crash gate will allow first responders to access I-84 faster and potentially save lives. According to the Slate Hill Fire District Chief, had such a crash gate been available in September, they would have been able to respond 5 to 10 minutes sooner. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/merry-christmas-and-happy-holidays-0,Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!,2023-12-23,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"From my family to yours, Merry Christmas! May your holiday be filled with warmth, comfort, and joy. 2023 has been a remarkable year, and I have been proud to work on your behalf to promote job growth, fight inflation, bolster education and training, and provide relief and opportunities for families across my district. As we enter the New Year, I’m proud of what we have accomplished together, and I look forward to continuing my work on behalf of NY-13 and the families who call my district home. May your holiday season be filled with joy, peace, health, and family.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-espaillat-and-torres-introduce-bold-legislative-package-addressing,Reps. Espaillat and Torres Introduce Bold Legislative Package Addressing Shortfalls that Contributed to Bronx Building Collapse,2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Today, U.S. Representatives Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and Ritchie Torres (NY-15) introduced a legislative package containing two bills, the Building Collapse Prevention Act and the LIHTC Landlord Accountability Act, and a letter to Commissioner Jimmy Oddo of the NYC Department of Buildings. The package was first reported yesterday in the New York Daily News. On the package, Rep. Adriano Espaillat said: “The partial collapse of what we witnessed at Billingsley Terrace or what could potentially happen at any building in and around New York City is deeply troubling and could have devastating consequences in a city as populously dense as ours. This shocking and unfortunate incident could have been prevented and it remains incumbent on us, as public officials, to ensure the necessary resources and oversight to prevent incidents like this from occurring in the future. Our legislative package ensures necessary mechanisms are in place to provide oversight and accountability to advance the safety and integrity of buildings across our city.” Rep. Ritchie Torres said: “Building safety is a matter of life and death. If we as elected officials see something on the ground, it is incumbent on us to say something. And more than saying something, we should have the power to act. The federal government is the principal funder of affordable housing in the country. And therefore, we in the federal government have a vested interest in ensuring that affordable housing is structurally sound and that the people who live there are physically safe. I am proud to partner with Congressman Espaillat on these crucial pieces of legislation to protect our communities and ensure that we do whatever we can to prevent another building collapse.” The Building Collapse Prevention Act would require the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to establish a program with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to inspect federally assisted rental housing, including public housing, buildings that accept Section 8 funds, and any other building that accepts federal housing funding. NIST must inspect a building if HUD, a member of the House of Representatives or Senate requests an inspection of a building or a building collapses. A member of the House may only request an inspection of a building that is within the Congressional district that they represent, and a Senator may only request an inspection of a building that is within their state. This request can only be made if there has been a violation of local construction or building safety codes or an inspection report that finds structural issues with a building and therefore could lead to a building collapse. The LIHTC Landlord Accountability Act would require all Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) buildings, both new and existing, to prove complete architectural safety in order to receive the affordable housing tax credit. It would mandate that landlords submit an annual report to the U.S. Department of Treasury detailing their eligibility and structural soundness that must be proved through a thorough architectural analysis. It would require that the Department of Treasury fine LIHTC landlords $500,000 for noncompliance in these annual reports. Lastly, it would require the Department of Treasury, in consultation with the Department of Housing and Urban Development, to publish a report on best practices for LIHTC landlords to employ to ensure safety and integrity in our nation’s largest affordable housing program. The letter to Commissioner Oddo includes the following ask from the two Congressmen: “We are formally requesting the New York City Department of Buildings (NYC DOB) provide a report to our offices of measurements to be taken to prevent the recurrence of such incidents and recommendations that the city, state, and federal government can take to help the NYC DOB advance the safety and integrity of buildings in our city. We are also requesting that the NYC DOB submit a list of structurally unsound, unstable, and defective buildings broken down by neighborhood. Finally, we are requesting an investigation into the possible role the nearby Department of Design and Construction water main installation may have played in the degradation of the structural integrity of the building. This report should be submitted within 14 days of receiving this letter, considering the urgency and gravity of the situation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-announces-1-million-agriculture-and-food-research,Congressman Dan Goldman Announces $1 Million Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Grant to New York University School of Medicine,2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Grant Would Fund the 'Prenatal Starting Early Program,' Focused on Improving Nutrition and Physical Activity During Pregnancy New York, NY – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today announced the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded a $969,953 Agriculture and Food Research Initiative grant to New York University School of Medicine for a mobile health intervention program focused on improving nutrition and physical activity during pregnancy. “I am extremely proud to announce that NYU Medicine will be receiving this Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Award,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “StEP:Prenatal will be critical to meaningfully improve health outcomes for pregnant patients and young children. I’m confident this will be a successful program and am looking forward to working in partnership with NYU to ensure that we can provide this program to patients across the country.” The grant is for the Prenatal Starting Early Program (StEP:Prenatal), a mobile health intervention in prenatal care and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Currently, even though 80 percent of pregnant patients in safety-net prenatal clinics receive WIC and have high rates of nutrition related pregnancy risk factors, such as obesity, diabetes and hypertension, the WIC care and care they receive at the clinics are not coordinated. StEP:Prenatal will divide participants into control and intervention groups to test effects, such as diet, physical activity, pregnancy outcomes, changes in nutrition knowledge among families and nutrition providers, and access and use of StEP:Prenatal materials. Through this program, WIC nutritionists will use mobile health to incorporate StEP:Prenatal content in pregnancy certification visits. Mobile health interventions can significantly impact diet and lifestyle behaviors linked to nutrition related chronic diseases, are cheaper to implement, and are more accessible for patients. Congressman Dan Goldman is committed to improving maternal health outcomes in moms across the United States. In May, Congressman Goldman cosponsored the ‘Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act,’ which includes twelve individual bills that together would comprehensively address the maternal mortality crisis in the United States, including the significant racial and ethnic disparities in outcomes. In October, Goldman cosponsored the ‘WIC For Kids Act,’ which would simplify the enrollment process for WIC by automatically granting WIC eligibility for mothers and children who reside in a household in which a member participates is other assistance programs such as SNAP or Medicaid. Congressman Dan Goldman is a founding member of the Congressional Dads Caucus, which advocates for paid family and medical leave policies for all parents, expanding the Child Tax Credit, increasing access to childcare, and other policies that reduce poverty and ease the burden on working parents. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-applauds-executive-office-immigration-reviews-decision,Congressman Dan Goldman Applauds the Executive Office for Immigration Review’s Decision to Implement Directive from Goldman’s Bipartisan ‘Children’s Court Act’,2023-12-22,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Executive Office for Immigration Review Issues Directive for the Establishment of Specialized Children’s Docket Following the Introduction of Congressman Goldman’s Bipartisan ‘Children’s Court Act’ Goldman Also Sent Letter to House Appropriators in March 2023 Requesting Creation of Specialized Children’s Docket within Executive Office for Immigration Review Read EOIR’s Guidance Here Read More on Goldman’s ‘Children’s Court Act’ Here Read Goldman’s Letter to House Appropriators Here New York, NY – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today applauded the Executive Office for Immigration Review’s (EOIR) newly released guidance for children’s immigration proceedings that ensures specialized children’s dockets in each immigration court that will be held separate from adult cases and overseen by dedicated judges. This directive from EOIR follows the introduction of Congressman Goldman’s bipartisan ‘Children’s Court Act’ which would codify the establishment of a Children’s Court within the EOIR focused on the adjudication of unaccompanied children’s removal proceedings, as well as a letter Goldman sent to House appropriators in March 2023 requesting the establishment of a specialized Children’s Court within the EOIR. “We have an obligation to protect the children who arrive at our borders without their families, and I am glad that the Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review has responded to the requests by me and my colleagues by issuing a directive establishing a children’s docket that will cater to the specific needs of these children,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “This is welcome progress and reflects the Biden Administration’s acknowledgement of the gaps in our legal system. But we must build on this effort from the Executive Branch by passing my bipartisan Children’s Court Act to codify the creation of a separate Children’s Court into law.” In November 2023, Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10), joined by Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO), Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27), introduced the bipartisan ‘Children’s Court Act’ to combat the immigration court backlog and strengthen due process rights for children. U.S. Representatives Hillary Scholten (MI-03), and Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05) also joined as original cosponsors of this legislation. Unaccompanied migrant children face unique obstacles as they navigate the complex U.S. immigration system. After they are placed into removal proceedings, many unaccompanied children appear alone before a judge in immigration court. Children’s cases are legally complex and often take longer than adult cases to hear. As a result, there are more than 62,000 pending unaccompanied children’s cases in the United States. The bipartisan, bicameral Immigration Court Efficiency and Children’s Court Act is a commonsense proposal to strengthen due process for vulnerable children and combat the immigration court backlog. The legislation would establish a Children’s Court within the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) focused on the adjudication of unaccompanied children’s removal proceedings. Pursuant to passage, the newly established Children’s Court would require: Specially Trained Personnel: Children’s Immigration Court judges would receive special training on child trafficking, developmental and trauma-informed practice, and docket management tools. Child Participation Protocols: The Children’s Court would ensure that children can easily attend court, actively engage in the process, and fully understand their rights to help overcome typical challenges in children’s proceedings. The bill would require that the Court utilize child-appropriate procedures to help ensure that children comprehend the proceedings, are treated appropriately for their developmental stage, and have sufficient time to secure counsel. Coordination with Legal Services Organizations: Legal services organizations would coordinate with the Court to help children access legal screening and immigration proceedings at the same time and place to ensure that children obtain counsel faster and more efficiently. This approach reduces unnecessary time in court and can prevent procedural delays. In March 2023, Congressman Goldman and Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03) led colleagues in requesting that House appropriators direct the EOIR to ensure that each immigration court establishes specialized children’s dockets designed to create developmentally appropriate adjudications for unaccompanied children. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://clarke.house.gov/rep-clarke-and-colleagues-introduce-restore-protections-for-dialysis-patients-act/,REP. CLARKE AND COLLEAGUES INTRODUCE RESTORE PROTECTIONS FOR DIALYSIS PATIENTS ACT,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 21, 2023 MEDIA CONTACT: e: brian.phillips@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 Washington, D.C. — This week, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), along with Reps. Mike Kelly (PA-16), Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02), Danny Davis (IL-07), John Joyce (PA-13), and Raul Ruiz (CA-25) introduced H.R. 6860, Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act, bipartisan legislation which aims to ensure that individuals with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) continue to have equitable access to private healthcare and to provide protection of the Medicare Trust Fund. The legislation follows a 2022 Supreme Court ruling that has allowed private health plans to prematurely force ESRD patients onto Medicare, creating disruption in coverage for patients and their families and shifting a significant financial burden onto taxpayers. “Nearly 40 million Americans live with kidney disease, and the millions more at risk deserve our support in their fight against kidney disease — from prevention through post-transplant living,” said Congresswoman Clarke. “Unfortunately, far too many patients affected with the disease, which disproportionately impacts communities of color, have complex health care needs that create incentives for plans to discourage enrollment. I’m proud to join my colleague, Congressman Kelly, to introduce the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act, a bipartisan bill which seeks to ensure people on dialysis receive the care they need.” “This legislation is critical for Americans living with End Stage Renal Disease and who rely on dialysis,” said Rep. Kelly. “Patients deserve to know their benefits will be in place when they need them. This legislation will improve both patient care and patient outcomes. I want to thank my House colleagues for joining me on this vital legislation.” “Americans deserve access to adequate health care coverage, especially those who need dialysis,” said Congressman Dunn. “ESRD patients who rely on dialysis should not see their benefit disappear overnight. We must renew the safeguards that protect dialysis patients and ensure their access to care.” “As the leading voice for the nation’s kidney care community, Kidney Care Partners is devoted to ensuring that all ESRD patients can access safe, effective care with coverage of their choice,” said John P. Butler, Chair of Kidney Care Partners. “We thank House lawmakers for introducing the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act, which will protect patient access to private insurer coverage for life-sustaining dialysis treatments.” “People with ESRD are more likely to be low-income and from historically marginalized communities, making premature loss of health coverage and related cost increases particularly devastating,” said LaVarne Burton, President and CEO of the American Kidney Fund (AKF). “Thankfully, the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act will ensure that people with kidney failure won’t be singled out based on their disease or forced to pay higher costs.” “We thank Representatives Kelly, Clarke, Dunn, Davis, Joyce and Ruiz for introducing this pivotal legislation, which will preserve patient choice and incentivize health plans to detect and treat chronic kidney disease (CKD). Unfortunately, my health insurance plan continues to restrict my access to the therapies that my nephrologist has prescribed to delay my kidney disease progression. Without action by Congress, millions of Americans could see their insurers follow suit, as the sooner they can push CKD patients like me into Medicare without paying any cost for doing so, the more likely we are to progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD),” said Hrant Jamgochian, J.D., LL.M., CEO of Dialysis Patient Citizens. “Private insurance can be vital to patients’ access to care and plays a critical role in ensuring the stability of the Medicare system,” said Keith A. Bellovich, DO, President of the Renal Physicians Association. “I urge House lawmakers to swiftly advance this legislation, which will make a meaningful difference for the more than 800,000 patients living with kidney failure.” “The Marietta v. DaVita decision will force people who have kidney failure off their private insurance into Medicare,” said Lori Hartwell, Founder and President of the Renal Support Network. “Health plans should not be able to decide they don’t want to cover you when your kidneys fail, a critical time when you need your insurance and care team the most. It is an unfair, discriminatory policy and a slippery slope for other chronic conditions.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://clarke.house.gov/rep-clarke-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-help-summer-camps-keep-pace-with-soaring-food-costs-continue-feeding-hungry-kids/,REP. CLARKE INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN BILL TO HELP SUMMER CAMPS KEEP PACE WITH SOARING FOOD COSTS & CONTINUE FEEDING HUNGRY KIDS,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 21, 2023 MEDIA CONTACT: e: brian.phillips@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and Congressman Marc Molinaro (NY-19) announced the introduction of the Summer Nutrition Parity Act, a bipartisan bill that will help local summer meal providers keep up with inflation and continue serving meals to children. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) donates food to be served to kids in-need through both the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). SFSP is designed to fill the nutrition gap that kids face when school is not in session by serving nutritious meals in low-income areas. Eligible SFSP sites include camps, community organizations, and local school districts. However, school lunches receive nearly 40 cents worth of USDA products per meal through the NSLP, while summer meal sites only receive 1.5 cents through the SFSP because this program’s rate has not been adjusted for inflation in decades. This legislation provides parity to summer camps by indexing the value of the commodities they receive through the SFSP to inflation – making it equal to the formula that determines the value for school lunches. “Children are our future. And investing in a child’s health and nutrition is a foundational driver for improving prosperity and economic success. I’m proud to join my colleague, Congressman Molinaro, on this common-sense, bipartisan legislation that seeks to support our children by focusing on one of the most important factors — their health,” said Rep. Clarke. “We see inflation every time we go to the grocery store. So, it makes sense this same inflationary pressure is pressing down on summer meal sites and threatening their ability to continue feeding kids in-need. My bipartisan bill makes a simple fix to index the donations they receive from the federal government to inflation, so they can continue fighting hunger and caring for kids,” said Rep. Molinaro. “I wholeheartedly endorse the Summer Nutrition Parity Act. This critical bill will ensure that our children receive nutritious meals throughout the summer, bridging a vital gap in their dietary needs. It’s a significant step towards combating child hunger and reinforces our community’s commitment to the health and well-being of our youth,” said Manny Steinberg, Planning Board Member of the Town of Liberty. “At the YMCA, we believe summer programs can be transformational, and we know nutritious meals and snacks are a key ingredient of any successful summer program. Hunger doesn’t take a break during the summer, so we’re pleased to see Representatives Molinaro and Clarke introduce this legislation to help federally supported programs keep pace with rising food costs and ensure parity between summer nutrition and other child nutrition programs,” said Suzanne McCormick, President and CEO of YMCA of the USA. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-adriano-espaillat-and-jenniffer-gonz%C3%A1lez-col%C3%B3n-introduce-roberto-clemente,Reps. Adriano Espaillat and Jenniffer González-Colón Introduce the Roberto Clemente Coin Act,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- This week, Representatives Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR) introduced the bipartisan Roberto Clemente Commemorative Coin Act to honor the profound legacy of Major League Baseball (MLB) star Roberto Clemente and his humanitarian achievements for Black and Latino communities around the nation. “Roberto Clemente was the model player, social advocate, a champion of civil rights, and a star among his peers,” said Rep. Espaillat. “As a player, Clemente was unrivaled in right field and no name in history commands more respect than his in Latin American baseball circles. I am proud to introduce bipartisan legislation to recognize Roberto Clemente’s humanitarian efforts, baseball stardom, and unapologetic pride in Latino heritage with the production of a commemorative coin honoring his legacy and the impact he had throughout the MLB, during the civil rights movement, and around the nation.” “I am proud to lead the bipartisan Roberto Clemente Commemorative Coin Act with my colleague Adriano Espaillat, paying tribute to a man who is a source of immense pride in Puerto Rico—our beloved Roberto Clemente. Clemente's legacy, as both a model player in Major League Baseball and a champion for civil rights and minority communities, is unparalleled. This commemorative coin is a testament to his enduring legacy, recognizing not only his athletic prowess but also his unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the world. Through recognizing Clemente, we aim to inspire future generations to embrace the values of compassion and justice that he exemplified throughout his remarkable life,” said Rep. González-Colón. “We are deeply moved and grateful for the proposal to immortalize our father, Roberto Clemente, on a commemorative United States coin. It is a profound honor that reflects his enduring legacy and the impact he had on the world,” said Roberto Clemente, Jr., Co-Chairman and Co-founder of the Roberto Clemente Foundation. Luis R. Clemente, Co-Chairman and Co-founder of the Roberto Clemente Foundation added, ""The proposal to have our father immortalized on a United States Commemorative Coin is a source of immense pride for our family. His contributions to both the sport of baseball and humanitarian efforts have left a permanent mark, and we are grateful for the recognition of his enduring legacy through this meaningful tribute.” “NALEO commends Congressman Espaillat and Congresswoman González-Colón for their leadership in recognizing Roberto Clemente’s exemplary life and contributions to the world of baseball and civil rights,” said NALEO President E. Junior Maldonado. “The Roberto Clemente Commemorative Coin Act is an honorable tribute to his enduring legacy within the Latino community and other communities of color across the United States.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-urges-new-york-city-landmarks-preservation-commission,Congressman Dan Goldman Urges New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission to Save Historic Merchant’s House Museum,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Nearly 200-Year-Old Merchant’s House Museum Recognized as Historic Landmark by Local, State, and National Historic Preservation and Landmark Bodies Museum’s Rubble Foundation and Plaster Structure Vulnerable to Damage and Collapse from Nearby Construction Read the Letter Here New York, NY – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) with New York State Senator Brian Kavanagh, New York State Assemblymember Deborah Glick, and City Councilmember Carlina Rivera sent a letter to New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission Chair Sarah Carroll and the rest of the commission urging them to protect the historic Merchant’s House Museum as an adjacent garage and repair shop are demolished. The Merchant’s House Museum is owned by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, and recognized as a historic landmark by local, state, and national historic preservation and landmark bodies. The lawmakers are calling for oversight as well as financial and technical support while construction happens nearby. An almost 200-year-old residence, the Merchant’s House foundation and structure are vulnerable to damage and collapse. “We urge you to keep in mind the specific vulnerabilities of the Merchant’s House and its unique position as an interior and exterior landmark and active museum contributing to our present and future cultural environment when evaluating applications, and provide the Merchant’s House with all of the necessary opportunities and resources to protect and preserve this historic treasure,” the lawmakers wrote. According to studies by two preservation and structural engineering firms, there is risk to both the interior and exterior of the museum, and there is potential for significant structural damage in the case of nearby construction. The interior walls are made of plaster that is subject to cracking if disrupted or not properly maintained, and the museum’s rubble foundation consists of soil, silt, and clay which are more susceptible to disruption than concrete foundation. Read the letter here or below: Dear Chair Carroll and Commissioners: We write regarding the above referenced application for a certificate of appropriateness to demolish a garage and repair shop at 27 East 4th Street, in Manhattan, in the NoHo Historic District Extension, and the adjacent Merchant’s House Museum at 29 East 4th Street. We write to express our strong, unwavering support for preserving and saving the Merchant’s House Museum, and we urge you to ensure the museum is protected through appropriate oversight of this application and any others that might permit nearby construction, and with financial and technical support. As you know, Merchant’s House is an almost 200-year-old residence whose foundation and structure are extremely delicate and vulnerable to damage, and even collapse. We must ensure that this public building—owned by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, and recognized as a historic landmark by local, state, and national historic preservation and landmark bodies—will be protected and preserved. The Merchant’s House is designated both an interior and exterior landmark by the Landmarks Preservation Commission and as a National Historic Landmark, and has been added to the National Register of Historic Places. Two nationally recognized preservation and structural engineering firms have conducted studies of the Merchant’s House and identified areas of risk to both the interior and exterior as well as significant structural damage in the case of nearby construction. The interior walls are made of plaster that is subject to cracking if disrupted or not properly maintained. The Merchant’s House also has a rubble foundation consisting of soil, silt, and clay typical of the period’s construction, and much more susceptible to disruption than today’s concrete foundations. Both of these historically significant factors leave the building vulnerable to damage, even collapse, and must be considered during the evaluation of the application submitted for 27 East 4th Street or any applications that would permit nearby construction. It is our understanding that LPC has hired a consulting engineer to review reports on the stability of the Merchant’s House that have been provided by the Applicant and representatives from the Museum. The engineer’s findings will be discussed orally at a public meeting on Tuesday, December 12. The engineer has not yet issued a written report, and this meeting format will not allow for the Merchant’s House to provide comment. In order to maintain a publically transparent process, we request this meeting be postponed until the engineer’s report can be provided in writing and the Merchant’s House can have a minimum of two weeks to review it. We also request the meeting be changed to a hearing that allows the Merchant’s House the opportunity to respond directly to the Commission. We urge you to keep in mind the specific vulnerabilities of the Merchant’s House and its unique position as an interior and exterior landmark and active museum contributing to our present and future cultural environment when evaluating applications, and provide the Merchant’s House with all of the necessary opportunities and resources to protect and preserve this historic treasure. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4049,"Tonko, Blumenthal, Schumer, Luján Introduce Bill to Stop Cyber Grinch Bots",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"ALBANY, NY— With holiday shopping underway, Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) reintroduced his legislation, the Stopping Grinch Bots Act that cracks down on cyber Grinches using bot technology to buy up entire inventories of popular holiday toys to resell at exorbitant prices. These third-party sellers use bots to bypass security measures and manipulate online sales systems to buy toys, leading to some toys being almost impossible to buy online or in stores at retail prices. U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) also introduced this legislation in the Senate. “Too many Americans have felt the disappointment and frustration of losing a popular toy to Grinch Bots — of spending hours scouring online stores in the hopes of finding an affordable gift or paying exorbitant prices for a single toy,” Congressman Tonko said. “These bots don’t just squeeze consumers, they pose a problem for small businesses, local retailers, and other entrepreneurs trying to ensure they have the best items in stock for their customers. Our Grinch Bots Act works to level the playing field and prevent scalpers from sucking hardworking parents dry this holiday season. Let’s pass this bill at once and ensure that Americans can spend their time this holiday season with their loved ones, not competing with Grinches.” Based on data from cybersecurity firm Imperva in its 2022 Bad Bot Report, bot-related hits on retail sites rose 10 percent in October and climbed to 34 percent in November. The Stopping Grinch Bots Act is supported by Consumer Federation of America, Consumer Reports, and the National Consumers League. “Consumers shouldn’t have to fight armies of bots to buy the products they want from the online retailers they want to do business with,” said Erin Witte, Director of Consumer Protection for Consumer Federation of America. “We support outlawing sneaky tactics that shady operators use to corner the market on popular items and then charge consumers excessive prices for them.” “Shoppers shouldn't have to compete with unscrupulous cyber Grinches who use automated bots to snatch up hundreds of products in a matter of seconds and re-sell them at outrageous prices,” said Chuck Bell, Advocacy Program Director at Consumer Reports. “This bill will help stop this predatory practice and create a more level playing field so everyone has a fair chance of buying popular products at reasonable prices when shopping online.” “Competing with other shoppers for in-demand gifts is frustrating enough for hard-working families,” said John Breyault, Vice President of Public Policy, Telecommunications, and Fraud for the National Consumers League. “Resellers employing bot software can make it almost impossible to check off all the items on consumers’ shopping lists. The Stopping Grinch Bots Act is common-sense consumer protection legislation that gives consumers who just want to buy a present a fair chance against the professional resellers.” Bots are software programs that can automatically spot and snap up inventory on sale online. In a matter of seconds, third-party vendors can purchase hundreds of items, squeezing out parents and children. In 2016, Blumenthal, Schumer, and Tonko’s Better Online Ticket Sales Act (BOTS Act) was signed into law to ban “ticket bots” that intentionally bypass security measures on online ticketing websites to unfairly outprice individual fans. This new legislation would apply the mechanism of the BOTS Act to e-commerce sites to ban bots bypassing security measures on online retail sites.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/velazquez-leads-colleagues-introducing-resolution-calling-end-monroe,Velázquez Leads Colleagues in Introducing Resolution Calling for an End to the Monroe Doctrine,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Nydia M. Velázquez,V000081,velazquez.house.gov,velazquez,https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) introduced a resolution calling for the annulment of the Monroe Doctrine. The bill’s introduction coincides with the 200-year anniversary of the Monroe Doctrine, which has been used to justify American intervention in Latin American affairs throughout the policy’s history. “The 200th anniversary of the Monroe Doctrine presents the U.S. and the hemisphere with a chance to move past an outdated and ineffective foreign policy strategy,” said Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez. “From drug trafficking to mass migration to climate change, the many shared challenges between the United States and Latin America cannot be addressed by the antiquated Monroe Doctrine. These are some of the most pressing issues of our time, and they call for a process that stresses respect and cooperation.” “For more than 200 years, the United States has used the Monroe Doctrine to justify a paternalistic, damaging approach to relations with Latin America and the Caribbean. As a result, the legacy of our nation’s foreign policy in those regions is political instability, deep poverty, extreme migration, and colonialism. It is well past time we change our approach,” said Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez. “We must recognize our interconnectedness and admit that the Monroe Doctrine undermines the partnership needed to confront the complex challenges of this century. We must become better neighbors. That is why I am proud to join Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez to develop an approach to foreign policy that advances our collective interests and builds a stronger coalition in Latin America and the Caribbean.” “U.S. foreign policy has too often contributed to instability in Latin America. Instead of toppling duly-elected governments, we can support democracy, grow our economies, and reduce forced migration. Instead of sanctions that starve our neighbors, we can work together to solve the climate crisis,” said Congressman Greg Casar. “We can begin charting this new way forward by eliminating the outdated Monroe Doctrine.” In addition to Velázquez, the resolution is cosponsored by Reps. Delia C. Ramirez (D-IL), Greg Casar (D-TX), Jesús ""Chuy"" García (D-IL), and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). From the invasion of Puerto Rico in 1898 to U.S. support for coups and dictatorships in Latin America throughout the 20th century, the resolution details the harmful effects of the policy over the past 200 years. The resolution calls for: The Department of State to formally confirm that the Monroe Doctrine is no longer a part of United States policy toward Latin American and the Caribbean. The Federal Government to develop a ‘‘New Good Neighbor’’ policy in place of the Monroe Doctrine. Developing a new approach to promoting economic development. The termination of all unilateral economic sanctions imposed through Executive orders, and working with Congress to terminate all unilateral sanctions, such as the Cuba embargo, mandated by law. New legislation to trigger the suspension of assistance to a government whenever there is an extraconstitutional transfer of power. Prompt declassification of all United States Government archives that relate to past coups d’états, dictatorships, and periods in the history of Latin American and Caribbean countries characterized by a high rate of human rights crimes perpetrated by security forces. Collaboration with Latin American and Caribbean governments on a far-reaching reform of to the Organization of American States. Supporting democratic reforms to the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank, and other international financial institutions. Text of the resolution can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-adriano-espaillat-leads-us-delegation-dominican-republic-address,Congressman Adriano Espaillat Leads U.S. Delegation to the Dominican Republic to Address Climate Resiliency,2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SANTO DOMINGO, DR― This week, Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) led a delegation from the United States to the Dominican Republic to address climate resiliency in the face of climate change throughout the region. Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and the Minister of the Presidency of the Dominican Republic, Joel Santos Echavarría held a press conference at the National Palace, where Espaillat announced the endowment to the Dominican Republic of two fully equipped fire trucks and two garbage collection trucks obtained in collaboration with the New York City Mayor's Office and the Dominican Consulate in New York. To address issues of public infrastructure and transportation vulnerability amid climate change and the subsequent impact during high rainy seasons that cause flooding, the delegation—consisting of New York federal, state, and city elected officials— met with the independent commission of experts, chaired by geologist Osiris de León, which was created by Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader, to supervise the country's large infrastructure works (tunnels, highways, bridges), following the collapse of several walls of the overpass on Máximo Gómez and 27 de Febrero avenues due to rain, which occurred in November and led to the death of nine people. The meeting was also attended by, among other public officials, the Minister of Public Works, Deligne Ascención Burgos, and Ángel Vázquez, representing New York State Governor Kathy Hochul. “After evaluating the ways in which we could help the Dominican Republic in the face of the challenges caused by climate change,” said Congressman Adriano Espaillat, “the commission agreed to present a proposal that could be signed between the Governor of New York, Kathy Hochul and the Dominican Republic, to address the collaboration of professional, financial, and technology resources to assist with natural disasters and help mitigate their impact on the country.” Espaillat presented his legislative efforts on climate matters and shared his insights from two United Nations conferences on Climate Change, COP26 held in Glasgow and COP27 held in Egypt, in which he participated as a member of the delegation from the United States. “We must all unite in one voice to combat climate change and we are willing to support the Dominican Republic in its efforts to mitigate damage and increase its resilience in the face of the intensification of atmospheric phenomena that have already caused damage to the country’s infrastructure and unfortunate tragedies,” said Espaillat. Additional members of the Espaillat led delegation include: New York State Assembly members Manny De Los Santos, George Álvarez and Yudelka Tapia; New York City Council members Karines Reyes, Oswald Feliz and Marjorie Velázquez, as well as Dr. Ramona Hernández, director of the Institute of Dominican Studies at CUNY, and Dr. Rafael Lantigua, associate director of the Taub Institute for Medical Research at Columbia University. On Monday, the delegation met with the president of the Dominican Republic, the Honorable Luis Abinader, at the National Palace. As part of the delegation’s visit, Dr. Ramona Hernández presented to the Dominican Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as to public and private universities in the country, the map of the Dominican Historic District proposed for Washington Heights, which represents a significant Dominican constituency in New York. The 73 notable locations within the proposed Dominican Historic District include schools, businesses, streets and churches with Dominican origins and history. Upper Manhattan venues like the Quisqueya Playground, Audubon Ballroom, Club Deportivo Dominicano, and more are marked among historic Dominican sites.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-works-keep-homes-warm-during-winter-months-increased,Congressman Dan Goldman Works to Keep Homes Warm During Winter Months with Increased Funding for Home Heating Assistance,2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"In 2022, Only 20 Percent of Eligible Households Received Relief Last Year from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program Additional Funding Will Help Low-Income New Yorkers Heat Their Homes During Winter Season Read the Letter Here Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) and 114 other lawmakers in requesting $1.6 billion for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP helps keep families safe and healthy by providing financial assistance to reduce the costs associated with home energy bills and reducing the health risks that arise from inadequate home heating abilities. An estimated one million New Yorkers are eligible for LIHEAP but do not receive assistance due to underfunding, making it one of the highest underserved populations in the nation. “As you know, LIHEAP helps families who are at risk of being unable to afford to heat their homes in the winter or cool them in the summer. Last year, more than six million households across the country relied on critical assistance from the LIHEAP program,” the lawmakers wrote. “For the families who receive LIHEAP, it is a critical lifeline that prevents them from making the impossible choice between staying warm and having enough food or paying for their medications.” Despite federal investment from the 2023 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, LIHEAP continues to be drastically underfunded, with just 20 percent of eligible households currently receiving assistance through the program. To assist households seeking to determine their eligibility for LIHEAP funding, HHS released a tool in English, Spanish, traditional Chinese, and simplified Chinese for households to quickly determine their eligibility. Congressman Goldman continues to fight for Home Heating Assistance Funding for low-income New Yorkers. In February, Congressman Goldman led 10 members of the New York Congressional Delegation in a letter to congressional leadership calling for an additional $500 million in LIHEAP funding for low-income New Yorkers. Read the letter here or below: Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Johnson and Minority Leader Jefferies, We write to support the inclusion of $1.6 billion in funding for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in any government funding package, to reflect the President’s FY24 emergency supplemental funding request. As you know, LIHEAP helps families who are at risk of being unable to afford to heat their homes in the winter or cool them in the summer. Last year, more than six million households across the country relied on critical assistance from the LIHEAP program. For the families who receive LIHEAP, it is a critical lifeline that prevents them from making the impossible choice between staying warm and having enough food or paying for their medications. With the winter months rapidly approaching, this funding is also needed to help address significant price fluctuations that energy markets continue to experience due to Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine. The conflict in the Middle East has also increased market uncertainty, and many energy market experts fear a rise in energy costs. These shifts disproportionately harm those who already struggle to pay their energy bills and underscore the need for robust funding for LIHEAP. Last year, $4.515 billion was distributed in LIHEAP funding across the country, including $100 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and $1 billion in supplemental appropriations. Even so, LIHEAP remains an historically underfunded and oversubscribed program with only 20 percent of households who qualify receiving support. Fortunately, determining one’s eligibility for LIHEAP is easier than ever following HHS’s release of a multilingual tool for households to quickly check if they qualify for assistance. However, without additional funding, LIHEAP will only run out sooner. Congress has a responsibility to fully fund President Biden’s supplemental request for additional funding for LIHEAP in FY24. As you work to finalize a supplemental funding package, please include robust funding for LIHEAP to help families stay warm and prevent drastic service and benefit cuts this winter. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-meng-and-garbarino-lead-65-new-york-elected-officials-urging,Reps. Meng and Garbarino Lead 65 New York Elected Officials in Urging President Biden to Support SNAP Hot Food Purchases,2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Grace Meng,M001188,meng.house.gov,meng,https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"QUEENS, NY – Today, U.S. Reps. Grace Meng (D-NY) and Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), who are pushing legislation that would allow the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to cover hot food purchases, led dozens of New York City and New York State elected officials in calling on President Biden to support the inclusion of the Hot Foods Act in the upcoming 2024 Farm Bill. The Hot Foods Act, which was introduced in May by Reps. Meng, Garbarino, Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA), would remove an outdated rule that prevents families from using their SNAP benefits to buy hot foods such as prepared rotisserie chickens, hot sandwiches and soups. The New York elected officials made their request in a bipartisan letter to the President. 2.8 million New Yorkers rely on SNAP to put food on the table. “Contrary to popular misconception, 4 out of 5 households in the program have at least one family member working,” said the lawmakers in their letter. “This makes the Hot Foods Act all the more critical; as you well know, working parents often do not have time to make food from scratch.Some individuals with disabilities and aging Americans can face greater mobility challenges in cooking meals from scratch and would greatly benefit from being able to purchase a hot meal with their SNAP benefits. The United States should cut unnecessary red tape and allow families to buy hot, prepared foods.” A copy of the letter can be viewed here and the text of the correspondence is below. Lawmakers signing the correspondence include: Members of Congress (6) Reps. Adriano Espaillat, Jerrold Nadler, Paul Tonko, Nicole Malliotakis, Pat Ryan, Nydia Velázquez. New York State Senators (14) Jamaal T. Bailey, Iwen Chu, Cordell Cleare, Michael Gianaris, Andrew Gounardes, Brad Hoylman-Sigal, Liz Krueger, John C. Liu, John W. Mannion, Shelly B. Mayer, Julia Salazar, Jose M. Serrano, James Skoufis, Kevin Thomas. New York State Assembly Members (28) Juan Ardila, Sam Berger, Edward C. Braunstein, Kenny Burgos, William Colton, Catalina Cruz, Harvey Epstein, Michael J. Fitzpatrick, Deborah J. Glick, Jessica González-Rojas, Andrew Hevesi, Chantel Jackson, Grace Lee, Donna A. Lupardo, David G. McDonough, Karen McMahon, Michael Novakhov, Stacey Pheffer Amato, Steven Raga, Karines Reyes, Linda B. Rosenthal, Rebecca A. Seawright, Amanda Septimo, Gina L. Sillitti, Doug Smith, Al Stirpe, Fred W. Thiele, Jr., Yudelka Tapia. New York City Council Members (17) Adrienne E. Adams, Erik Bottcher, Justin Brannan, TiffanyCabán, Shahana Hanif, Rita C. Joseph, Shekar Krishnan, Christopher Marte, Julie Menin, Sandy Nurse, Keith Powers, Carlina Rivera, Lynn Schulman, Marjorie Velázquez, Nantasha Williams, Julie Won, Kalman Yeger. ---------------------------- Dear President Biden, Your administration has made historic investments in American families with the acknowledgement that it should be easier for American families to break into the middle class. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a critical poverty reduction program that nourishes millions of Americans in their quest to build stable lives for their families. As elected representatives of New York City and New York State, we encourage you to continue your work by supporting Congresswoman Grace Meng’s Hot Foods Act inclusion in the 2024 Farm Bill. Since its enactment 60 years ago, SNAP has prohibited the purchase of hot foods. While this restriction may have made sense in the 1970s, when most families were cooking their meals at home, it is no longer an accurate reflection of American families’ dietary or lifestyle needs. Retailers are also evolving to match Americans’ consumer habits, and have expanded their offerings to include more hot and prepared foods. The bipartisan, bicameral Hot Foods Act of 2023 (H.R. 3519/S. 2258) would remove the prohibition on purchasing hot, ready to eat foods with SNAP benefits. The Hot Foods Act is currently under consideration for inclusion in the 2024 Farm Bill, which Congress only reauthorizes every five years. The hot foods prohibition means that SNAP customers can purchase cold or frozen items, but if retailers prepare or heat the same food items, they become ineligible for purchase under the program. In practical terms, a parent can purchase a frozen rotisserie chicken and spend over an hour cooking it but cannot purchase a hot rotisserie chicken to eat immediately at home. More than 42 million Americans rely on federal food benefits. Contrary to popular misconception, 4 out of 5 households in the program have at least one family member working. This makes the Hot Foods Act all the more critical; as you well know, working parents often do not have time to make food from scratch. Some individuals with disabilities and aging Americans can face greater mobility challenges in cooking meals from scratch and would greatly benefit from being able to purchase a hot meal with their SNAP benefits. The United States should cut unnecessary red tape and allow families to buy hot, prepared foods. On behalf of the 2.8 million New Yorkers who benefit from SNAP, we ask you to support the Hot Foods Act inclusion in the 2024 Farm Bill. This is our only chance for the next five years to make sure all Americans can support their families with the dignity of a hot meal.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-completes-tour-of-all-62-new-york-counties-for-landmark-25th-year-now-with-4500-visits-to-upstate-ny-and-long-island-in-his-career-senator-says-his-silver-anniversary-with-the-empire-state-was-one-of-most-meaningful-tours_including-delivering-billions-for-infrastructure-creating-thousands-of-good-paying-jobs--and-says-he-will-continue-tradition-again-next-year,"SCHUMER COMPLETES TOUR OF ALL 62 NEW YORK COUNTIES FOR LANDMARK 25th YEAR; NOW WITH 4,500+ VISITS TO UPSTATE NY AND LONG ISLAND IN HIS CAREER, SENATOR SAYS HIS SILVER ANNIVERSARY WITH THE EMPIRE STATE...",2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"During Schumer’s 1998 Senate Election Campaign, He Vowed To Visit Every Single New York County Each Year — Now, After 25 Years Of Keeping His Promise, He Is Marking Historic 25th Year Of The Tradition That Has Accumulated 4,500+ Visits To Communities In Every Corner Of New York Schumer: After 25 Years Of Traveling The State, I Am Not Slowing Down – And Promise To Continue Traveling, Listening, Learning and Delivering For New York In Bigger And Bolder Ways! Marking the silver anniversary of his beloved tradition, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today announced he completed his landmark 25th year of his annual 62 county tour, with his final stop yesterday in Columbia County. Over the past 25 years, Schumer visited Upstate New York and Long Island a whopping 4,500+ times with 112 non-NYC county visits this year alone. Schumer was the first New York public official to start a tour of every single county in New York, a tradition he has continued each year he has been in office. “25 years ago, I made the promise to visit every county, but little did I know that this tradition would bring me across our great state over 4,500 times. From Buffalo to Brooklyn, meeting with New Yorkers from every walk of life on my tour is what inspires me, it is how I learn, and it is what motivates me every day in Washington,” said Senator Schumer. “This was a landmark year, and one of my most meaningful tours, as we got to see firsthand many of the historic investments we made from my CHIPS & Science Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, the Inflation Reduction Act and more really start to bloom. We have delivered billions for long overdue infrastructure projects from roads to broadband, new cutting-edge industry and thousands of good paying jobs coming back from overseas to Upstate NY. All of that would not be possible without the knowledge and motivation I gain from the people I meet on the 62 county tour.” “Whether it was standing outside the long abandoned Jamestown furniture factory that sat as an eyesore in the community and getting the feds to help clean it up, expanding broadband in the North Country, lowering healthcare costs for our seniors, or helping solidify Upstate NY from Buffalo to Albany as a growing hub for semiconductor manufacturing in research…This year was about helping communities big and small in every corner of the state lay the foundation for a brighter future,” said Senator Schumer. Schumer added, “God gave me a lot of energy. Many people said that when I became majority leader, I wouldn’t have time for the 62 county tour, but even though I carry a bigger title in Washington and I now have to lead international trips on diplomacy, my favorite two titles will always be New York’s senator and a New Yorker. After 25 incredible years of traveling the state, I have no plans of slowing down anytime soon, and I look forward to continuing this tradition again next year.” In his continued quest to deliver resources to every corner of Upstate New York, Schumer highlighted various accomplishments achieved over the past year by region below: NEW YORK STATE Secured a massive nearly $1 billion every single year with new Medicare Wage Index rule change to bring increased payments to rural and urban hospitals in every corner of Upstate NY: Following years of relentless advocacy, Schumer announced in August that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) officially finalized a rule that will have an estimated nearly $1 billion impact for increased payments to Upstate New York hospitals every single year from the federal government. With this fixed rule, hospitals across the state will begin to receive the fair and full reimbursements they have been denied for far too long, meaning better healthcare for communities and families across Upstate. Delivered the largest federal investments in broadband in New York State’s history – bringing high-quality internet to a record number of homes and businesses across the Empire State: Schumer announced that New York state would receive a historic nearly $670 million in federal funding from his Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act. This is the largest single investment for broadband in New York State’s history and will be used for providing affordable high-speed internet to locations in New York that currently have no broadband service. In addition, Schumer also announced another $100 million in federal funding through the American Rescue Plan this year to expand high-speed internet across New York State. Sparked millions in investments for Upstate NY’s manufacturing sector and brought critical manufacturing in industries like semiconductors back from overseas to America – all spurred by historic CHIPS & Science Law: Exactly one year after his CHIPS & Science Act was signed into law, Schumer highlighted billions in investments the semiconductor industry has already proposed and thousands of good paying jobs thanks to the historic legislation he championed for Upstate NY.Schumer crafted the CHIPS & Science Law with Upstate NY in mind to bring critical manufacturing in industries like semiconductors back from overseas to America, and over the past year, new investment sparked by the federal legislation he authored has breathed new life into Upstate’s manufacturing sector, including: Micron has proposed an historic up to $100 billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York, which is expected to create up to 50,000 good-paying jobs. Wolfspeed near Utica recently opened the first, largest, and only 200mm silicon carbide fabrication facility in the world with over $1 billion invested in the Mohawk Valley. Edwards Vacuum will invest $300+ million to build a 600 job U.S. dry pump manufacturing facility in Western New York’s Science & Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP) to supply the semiconductor industry. IBM will invest $20+ billion in the Hudson Valley to increase its research and development (R&D) of technologies in the semiconductor, quantum computing, and other high-tech industries. GlobalFoundries is considering building a second fab in the Capital Region, driven by the major demand for their chips, that will be a key supplier to the auto and defense industries. Corning Incorporated, which manufactures glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants, is considering expansion because of the support for suppliers in the CHIPS federal incentives that Schumer included in the CHIPS & Science law. Menlo Micro announced an over $50 million investment to build their first domestic microelectronics fab facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. Albany Nanotech recently landed a $10 billion public-private partnership with New York State and semiconductor industry leaders boosting a major new expansion with investment in the world’s most cutting-edge semiconductor machinery to the Capital Region, expected to create at least 700 direct jobs, hundreds of union construction jobs, and bolstering workforce training for this vital industry in NY. WESTERN NEW YORK Landed prestigious Federal Tech Hub Designation for the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse as region primed to grow America’s semiconductor industry: After years of advocacy, Schumer announced that the Upstate cities of Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse won the federal Tech Hub designation he created in the CHIPS and Science Act, putting Upstate NY further on the road to becoming America’s semiconductor superhighway. The tri-city region was one of only 31 proposals selected across the country to compete for potentially billions in federal funding to boost Upstate NY’s workforce training, innovation, and manufacturing of semiconductor technology. Delivered millions in critical pension relief for Western New York union workers and their families thanks to American Rescue Plan: After years of relentless advocacy, Schumer announced that International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 237 would receive $32.2 million pension-fix payout from the American Rescue Plan – ensuring the 430 members and their families receive the hard earned benefits and the financial security they deserve. Schumer also announced the UFCW would receive about $400 million of the $764 million pension fund payout from the American Rescue plan, benefitting roughly 8,000 to 10,000 workers and retirees from Western New York at employers such as Tops, Sahlen’s and Wardynski’s. Successfully pushed EPA to demolish and clean up Jamestown’s old contaminated Crawford Furniture Factory, a site with known hazardous contamination, following massive fire: After standing in Jamestown to launch push to get feds to help clean up the old Crawford Furniture Factory, Schumer announced the EPA heeded his calls and is officially beginning clean up on the hazardous site. After a dangerous fire late last year, that potentially put public health at risk for the community, Schumer came to Jamestown to launch his push for feds to help take financial burden off local taxpayers and help remove hazardous materials at the site and demolish the eyesore so it could potentially become a site for new opportunity. The EPA is now beginning demolition of the former manufacturing facility at the Allen Street Development Site – knocking down, cleaning up damaged buildings and disposing of toxic asbestos from the deteriorating facility. Secured Major Disaster Declaration for Winter Storm Elliott, the deadly December blizzard that devastated Western NY: After his relentless advocacy, Schumer announced that President Biden had approved New York’s Disaster declaration for Winter Storm Elliott, officially providing the state and local municipalities with federal funding needed to boost recovery efforts. The declaration made over $2.6 million available to cover the costs of storm-related damages and emergency response for both New York State and in impacted communities in Erie, Genesee, Niagara, St. Lawrence, and Suffolk Counties, including Snow Assistance for Erie and Niagara Counties to reimburse for snow removal. The declaration also included Individual Assistance to cover funeral expenses for residents of Erie and Niagara Counties. HUDSON VALLEY Announced Sullivan County received critical NY-NJ HIDTA designation following years of advocacy – securing major boost in fed crime fighting resources for Hudson Valley: Following years of non-stop advocacy, Schumer announced the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) had heeded his calls and granted Sullivan County’s request to be designated as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). Schumer personally brought the Director of ONDCP, Dr. Rahul Gupta, to Sullivan County to announce the critical designation, which will finally provide access to the federal resources to help local law enforcement combat the opioid crisis in the Hudson Valley and stop dangerous drug traffickers. Delivered $21 million to reconnect Kingston’s neighborhoods to the waterfront, create good-paying jobs, and revitalize downtown: Following Schumer’s March 2022 visit to Kingston, where he vowed to secure $20 million for the city, the Department of Transportation announced a $21.7 million RAISE grant to boost transportation and transform Kingston’s Waterfront. Schumer wrote to and personally called Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to secure this award. Schumer said this long awaited funding will reconnect Kingston’s neighborhoods to its historic Rondout waterfront area to restore and revitalize downtown, create good paying jobs, and bolster economic opportunity for all. Secured $1.8 Million for the West Point Fire Department after they had faced years of budget cuts: After standing shoulder to shoulder with West Point firefighters at the United States Military Academy (USMA) in West Point, Schumer announced that the Army heeded his call and reversed course to fully fund the West Point Fire Department (WPFD) after it faced years of staggering budget cuts that hampered operations. Schumer said that the Army committed $1.8 million – 150% of WPFD’s original request this year - to replace outdated emergency response equipment and give West Point firefighters the peace of mind and financial security they have desperately needed and deserved. Landed Breeze Airways at Stewart International Airport: After working to secure flights out of Plattsburgh, Schumer continued his push for affordable airline access and landed Breeze Airways at Stewart International Airport in Newburgh, making it the fifth New York State airport to provide services from Breeze Airways – all part of Schumer’s multi-year, multi-faceted plan to provide air services for all. CAPITAL REGION Helped launch CDTA’s new BusPlus Purple Line, a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Line with limited stop service along the busiest corridors in the Capital Region – boosting fast, accessible, and affordable transportation: Following ten years of relentless advocacy, Schumer helped CDTA announce the launch of its new BusPlus Purple Line, which will provide affordable, dependable, express transit service for Capital Region residents and students along the Washington and Western Avenue corridors to Crossgates Mall. The Purple Line will connect riders to employment and entertainment centers across the route, connecting riders with downtown Albany, the city’s bus terminal, the Harriman State Office Campus, the University at Albany, the Albany Nanotech campus and Crossgates Mall in Guilderland. Unveiled a new $1.7B investment into Watervliet Arsenal – the largest investment in the history of the facility – to modernize arsenal, upgrade equipment, and secure Watervliet as heart of Army cannon manufacturing: Schumer announced that Congress and the U.S. Army would invest over $1.7 billion in the Watervliet Arsenal over the next 20 years—the largest investment in the history of the Arsenal—to modernize the facility, upgrade equipment, and bolster workforce to secure Watervliet as heart of Army cannon manufacturing for generations to come. This historic investment builds on the $230 million already flowed to the facility in 2023 in order to jumpstart modernization efforts in the factory. The last major modernization effort was done during the 1980s. Announced historic new partnership between GlobalFoundries and Lockheed Martin – spurred by Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Act: This past June, Schumer stood alongside GlobalFoundries’ and Lockheed Martin executives to announce their new major strategic partnership to advance U.S. semiconductor manufacturing and increase the security, reliability and resiliency of domestic supply chains for national security systems. This new partnership, a direct result of expected expansion of domestic chip manufacturing spurred by Schumer’s CHIPS and Science Act, means that chips Lockheed Martin uses in some of the nation’s most sensitive defense and aerospace technologies will now be made at GlobalFoundries by Capital Region workers. Schumer said this new collaboration between two of Upstate New York’s largest employers will strengthen our national security, all while supporting the 2500 employees GlobalFoundries currently has working in Malta as well as potential future expansion. Announced $40 million awarded to New York-based consortium from the Department of Defense’s (DoD) Microelectronic Commons Program: This funding is one of the first major CHIPS awards from Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Act and will establish the infrastructure of the hub, allowing partners to bolster workforce training programs for the semiconductor industry and add new state-of-the-art microelectronics equipment. The consortium, known as the Northeast Regional Defense Technology Hub (NORDTech), led by NY CREATES, the University at Albany’s College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering (CNSE), Cornell University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), and IBM, will bring together academia, industry, and government organizations to help supercharge New York’s booming chips industry to spur innovation, attract new companies, strengthen the workforce, and bolster this industry, which is vital to America’s national security. Helped unveil Plug Power’s new Vista facility: Back in 2016, Plug Power CEO Andy Marsh and Senator Schumer made a deal—If Schumer could reinstate the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), Plug would grow its workforce in New York. A promise made was a promise kept— Schumer secured the ITC in 2017, and in January this year, Plug Power opened its brand new Vista facility in Slingerlands which manufactures green hydrogen fuel cells; creating 1,600 good paying jobs in the Capital Region. Plug’s growth in New York was even more supercharged with new incentives included in the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. ROCHESTER-FINGER LAKES Secured a major investment of $68 million from General Motors for Rochester – fueling revival of Finger Lakes auto industry and creating 100 new jobs: After fighting to save the Rochester plant from closure years ago, Schumer announced that General Motors will invest $68 million at their Rochester manufacturing plant for the production of electric vehicle battery components that will position the plant at the forefront of the rapidly growing electric vehicles market as well as for production of components for GM’s next-generation Gen6 V8 light duty truck engine. The represents the culmination of years of efforts by Schumer to bring new work to the Rochester GM facility, personally lobbying GM, and creating new federal incentives to spur electric vehicle production. Sen. Schumer said Rochester’s production facility will now be at the heart of GM’s transformation to electric and that this work will help sustain their nearly 750 workers for years to come. Saved over 200 union jobs after urging Tom James Company to buy former Hickey Freeman Factory: After years of working to protect Hickey Freeman’s highly skilled, mostly unionized workers, Schumer announced that the Tom James Company, the largest U.S maker of custom clothing, would purchase the Rochester factory, maintaining nearly 200 union employees and promising to add up to an additional 45 jobs over the next five years. With the company struggling, Schumer directly called the Tom James Company and convinced them to purchase the historic, 112-year old facility, protecting the existing workforce and securing their commitment to grow the workforce of the newly dubbed “Rochester Tailored Clothing.” Delivered $3 million to greenlight Rochester’s urban tree program and plant over 6,000 new trees across the city: After visiting Rochester in May to launch his support for the city’s application to the USDA’s Urban and Community Forestry grants program, Schumer wrote to USDA Secretary Vilsack and successfully secured funding for the program to plant thousands of new trees across areas of need throughout the city. Rochester’s poorer neighborhoods and communities of color currently have 30% fewer trees than more affluent areas, leading to urban heat islands and worsening health disparities. Successfully resolved Baxter International’s chip shortage, protecting the jobs of the company’s 300-person workforce: After standing with workers of Baxter International in Orleans County promising to fight to help solve their microchip supply chain issues, Schumer announced that his relentless advocacy was successful and that the previous shortages that hindered production have been resolved. In August of 2022, the senator personally visited Orleans County to launch a two-pronged plan to address the microchip shortage. Schumer said that Baxter’s infusion pumps are classified as in “critical need” by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for the nation’s pandemic response, so it was crucial their manufacturing supply chain be preserved. Schumer began working with Texas Instruments, one of Baxter’s primary chip suppliers, to help prioritize components for their lifesaving medical devices. After months of work, Baxter confirmed that Schumer’s support was successful and they have the necessary chips to produce their infusion pump technology and preserve the company’s 300-person workforce. CENTRAL NEW YORK Persuaded TTM Technologies to select DeWitt for $130M investment in state-of-the-art printed circuit board manufacturing facility expected to create 400 good paying Central New York jobs: Following a yearlong site assessment process involving 27 markets in 16 states, Schumer and Governor Hochul successfully persuaded TTM Technologies to locate it’s new, state-of-the-art $130M printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing expansion facility in the Town of Dewitt. The expansion facility will be co-located on 24 acres adjacent to TTM’s existing production facility in DeWitt and is expected to create 400 good-paying manufacturing and engineering jobs, as well as an equal number of construction jobs during the design and build. This trailblazing investment furthers Schumer’s plan to transform Central New York into a global epicenter of semiconductor manufacturing by adding one of the nation’s first, specialized PCB manufacturing and advanced packaging facilities to the region’s semiconductor ecosystem. The 160,000+ sqft facility will manufacture ultra-high-density PCB’s for defense and commercial semiconductor applications. TTM will also invest in research and development that will further integrated-circuit substrate and HDI PCB technologies across the United States. The project will support around 400 construction jobs during development and construction of the facility. Ensured Verizon can hear us now, successfully pressuring Verizon to get to work on fixing the infamous Oneida Street wireless dead zone plaguing Utica: Standing side-by-side with Utica residents, small business owners, and public safety officials in April, Schumer sounded the alarm on a dangerous wireless dead zone that stretches along one of Utica’s busiest streets and impedes calls, mobile payments and even presents a public safety risk. After years of complaints from small businesses and public officials went unheard, Schumer turned up the volume by calling on Verizon to investigate the problem, meet with local officials, and come up with a plan to fix the dead zone. Verizon heeded Schumer’s call before the end of summer, engaging with the City of Utica, the Village of New Hartford, and Schumer staff to formulate a plan to fix the dead zone. Verizon identified the New Hartford Recreation Center site for a new tower, had engineers visit and evaluate the site, and worked with the Village of New Hartford to fast track approvals. More progress has been made in the few months since Schumer’s call to action than over the many years of effort preceding it. Secured nearly $15 million for workforce development and training across Central New York and the Mohawk Valley: After writing to Defense Secretary Austin, Schumer secured $5 million for CenterState CEO, the Griffiss Institute, Syracuse University and partners to build out the region’s defense manufacturing workforce. Schumer advocated for Syracuse University, successfully securing $2.5 million in NSF funding to attract, retain, and increase diversity and access for underserved populations in the region’s STEM workforce and $900,000 in BIL-powered DOE funding to become an Industrial Assessment Center. Schumer supported Mohawk Valley Community College by securing $2 million for a new, state-of-the-art advanced manufacturing training center at Mohawk Valley Community College and $440,000 in BIL-powered DOE funding to become an Industrial Advancement Center. Schumer secured $2 million for Onondaga Community College to create a state-of-the-art hospital simulation education and training center to address the critical shortage of health care workers and train the next generation of health care practitioners. Schumer secured nearly $2 million for the Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison, and Oneida Counties to design, develop and grow a training program that prepares local job seekers for high-demand, high-quality career pathways. Delivered over $13 million to revitalize urban tree canopies from Utica to Auburn and plant thousands of trees across Central New York: After personally calling and writing USDA Secretary Vilsack to advocate for funding, Schumer secured over $13M to rejuvenate urban greenspaces in the City of Syracuse, the City of Auburn, the CNY Regional Planning and Development Board, the City of Utica, and Olmsted City of Greater Utica. With urban tree canopies across the region in need of a green thumb, this federal funding will help breathe new life into neighborhoods and greenspaces from Utica to Syracuse to Auburn by planting thousands of new trees, reducing extreme temperatures from urban heat islands, and connecting youth to good paying jobs that foster a cleaner, greener environment. The funding is made possible thanks to the historic increases secured by Schumer in the Inflation Reduction Act, which included over $1 billion for the UDSA to increase equitable access to trees. Funding for the City of Syracuse builds on the city’s 2018 urban forestry master plan, to which the city has already committed $2 million in federal dollars from Schumer’s American Rescue Plan. Landed $46 million in National Defense Authorization Act for cutting-edge Quantum Computing and Unmanned Aerial Systems R&D in Rome: Schumer reinforced his reputation as a champion of Rome’s Air Force Research Labs (AFRL) by securing $46 million in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to supercharge quantum computing and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) technology. Schumer’s efforts will advance AFRL’s pioneering R&D by supporting major projects, such as a quantum networking testbed and quantum cloud computing environment, a next-generation ion-trap quantum computer, a joint all-domain command and control testbed, and a multi-domain radio frequency spectrum test environment. NORTH COUNTRY Landed prestigious Multi Domain Task Force at Fort Drum to reinforce the north country’s pillar of national defense: After years of advocacy, Schumer successfully completed his mission to deliver a prestigious Multi-Domain Task Force (MDTF) for Fort Drum. When the Army first announced that Fort Drum was being considered for a MDTF, Schumer sent a letter to the Army supporting Fort Drum’s candidacy. As part of an all-out push, Schumer personally calling Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth multiple times to highlight Fort Drum. The MDTF combines land, air, sea, cyber, and space capabilities into one unit that supports joint forces and is essential to building joint readiness while strengthening interoperability with key allies and partners. Announced largest-ever NBRC investment into economic development projects throughout North Country communities: After he delivered major federal funding for Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, Schumer in August announced that New York State projects had received the largest amount of funding in the history of the program, to the tune of nearly $11 million for twelve projects across the North Country that address aging infrastructure, expanding childcare, training workers for good-paying jobs, increasing access to high-speed internet, and accelerating the economic growth of Main Streets across the North Country and Upstate New York. Secured Critical Access Hospital Status for Alice Hyde Medical Center to Boost essential care for Franklin County communities: Following his advocacy, Schumer announced in November that Alice Hyde Medical Center has been designated as a Critical Access Hospital (CAH) by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Alice Hyde’s new status will reduce the community hospital’s financial vulnerability amid financial and operational challenges for rural health care organizations in New York and across the country. Schumer has been a champion of the CAH program for years and successfully saved several Upstate New York hospitals at risk of losing their CAH status last year. Delivered $17+ million for 400+ miles of high-speed fiber to bridge the North Country’s digital divide: With far too many unserved and underserved North Country communities struggling to access the high-speed internet they deserve, Schumer led the charge to bridge the digital divide by securing millions in federal funding for the Development Association of the North Country to lay over 400 miles of new broadband fiber, bringing high-speed internet to thousands of homes, businesses, and community anchors across the North Country. Schumer secured $14,547,750 in through the NTIA’s Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program, which is powered by the IIJA’s record $65 billion for the expansion of high-speed internet, to expand nearly 350 miles of broadband fibers across the North Country for 2,500 unserved residences and over 280 community anchor institutions. Schumer also secured 2.5M from the Northern Border Regional Commission to complete a telecommunications project that will bring an additional 63.3 miles of new fiber, bringing affordable high-speed broadband to approximately 488 households in rural communities in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence Counties. Secured over $5 million to complete the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority’s Terminal expansion project: After years of advocacy and millions in funding delivered, Schumer secured the final wave of funding for the Ogdensburg Bride and Port Authority’s (OBPA) long-awaited terminal expansion project. Currently, the Port of Ogdensburg can only accommodate one ship coming into port and unloading at a time. With this over $5 million in Port Infrastructure Development Program funding, the OBPA will be able to complete the Ogdensburg Harbor deepening that Schumer secured funding to kick start in 2021, add 500 feet to the west side dock wall for a second vessel berth at seaway depth, and expand storage facilities for increased cargo capacity. These upgrades will allow the Port of Ogdensburg to accommodate two or more ships coming into port and unloading simultaneously, equip the port to transport larger cargo more efficiently, and improve supply chain resilience. To make this award possible, Schumer secured $662,203,512 in FY’23 PIDP funding, including over $450 million in the IIJA and $212 million in the FY’23 budget. Landed Breeze Airways at Plattsburgh Airport: Following Schumer’s long history of fighting for affordable air service to Upstate New York, and after his letter to the Breeze CEO, Schumer announced that Breeze Airways will begin to offer flights out of Plattsburgh International Airport—connecting North Country families to affordable air service. SOUTHERN TIER Secured $50+ million investment from Menlo Microsystems to retrofit a Microelectronics Manufacturing Fab and create 100+ new good-paying jobs in Tompkins County: After personally calling the CEO of Menlo Micro, Schumer announced the company heeded his call and will invest over $50 million to build their first domestic microelectronics fabrication (“fab”) facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. Menlo Micro’s next-generation switch technology are a vital component of the microelectronics industry, supporting the growth of the domestic semiconductor industry across Upstate NY that is being driven by Schumer’s CHIPS and Science Act. Secured Federal Tech Hub Designation for Binghamton to become the nation’s next hub for battery innovation, research, and manufacturing: After delivering historic federal investment to jumpstart Binghamton’s growing battery hub last year, Schumer announced that Binghamton University’s New Energy New York (NENY) project won a highly-competitive federal Tech Hub designation, which he created in the CHIPS and Science Act, officially recognizing the region to lead the nation in battery innovation and manufacturing. Binghamton is now part of an exclusive group of only 31 regions in America eligible to compete for significant federal funding. Secured $1.2 million for regional workforce development effort to help 135+ workers access jobs in advanced manufacturing and construction trades: After personally writing to the Department of Labor Secretary, Schumer announced nearly $1.2 million for Ithaca Area Economic Development through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities (WORC) Initiative to expand existing and establish new career readiness programs that are expected to connect at least 135 workers for entry-level, good-paying jobs in advanced manufacturing and the construction trades. Delivered $400,000 for Delaware County Line-Worker Training Program to power hundreds of good-paying jobs and upgrade critical infrastructure: After visiting Delaware County earlier this year to launch an all-out push, Schumer delivered $400,000 through the Appalachian Regional Commission for Delaware County Electric Cooperative in partnership with SUNY Delhi to develop an advanced line-worker training program, which is projected to train hundreds of workers for good-paying jobs improving electricity service, expanding access to affordable clean energy, and upgrading telecommunications infrastructure in rural communities across Upstate NY. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-and-congresswoman-becca-balint-request-information,"Congressman Dan Goldman and Congresswoman Becca Balint Request Information from International Committee of the Red Cross, Urging Action on Behalf of Hostages",2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"What can the United States Congress do to assist the ICRC’s efforts toimmediately gain access to the hostages? Read the letterhere or below: Mirjana Spoljaric Egger President International Committee of the Red Cross 19 Avenue de la Paix 1202 Geneva, Switzerland Dear President Egger: We write to express our profound concern at your lack of response to the recent war crimes perpetrated by terrorist organizations Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (“PIJ”), including the illegal abduction of civilian hostages following the brutal events of October 7 and their continued captivity in horrific conditions. We appreciate your visit to Gaza last week and your call bothfor the hostages to bereleased – or at leastfor the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to safely visit them – as well as more humanitarian aid to support displaced Palestinian civilians. But we do not accept Hamas’s refusal to allow the ICRC to visit the hostages and urge you to do all that you can to provide care and protection of the hostages. We therefore write to request answers as to why your organization has been unable to execute its duties to ensure the care and protection of the Hostages; and we stand ready to offer our assistance in your efforts to achieve these objectives. Recentlyreleased hostages have revealed that they wereforced to live in deplorable conditions lacking sufficient food, water, medication or sunlight. Worse yet, certain of them reported instances of sexual violence and rape, drugging, beating and branding. At least 20 died in captivity. Approximately 129 remain, 19 of which are female and 2 of which are children, and many are reportedly suffering from injury, illness, malnourishment and other ailments resulting from the living conditions and the lack of access to proper nourishment, sleep, medical attention and/or medication. Your intervention to attend to the hostages is requiredimmediately. As you know, the abduction of civilian hostages is explicitly prohibited under any circumstances by international law, which refers to any such abduction as a “grave breach.” As such, there are no clear rules of internal humanitarian law (“IHL”) that even govern civilian hostages. But even if we were to apply treaties governing prisoners of war to the Israeli hostages, Hamas’s and PIJ’s treatment of them would easily be considered a clear violation of international law under Article 8(2) of the Rome Statute, the International Convention Against the Taking of Hostages (1979), as well as the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1979. As a critical threshold issue, international law requires those holding captives to provide proof of life, which Hamas and PIJ have refused to do. More importantly, international law requires those holding captives to permit wellness visits from the ICRC to ensure the health and well-being of the hostages. It is our understanding that, to date, Hamas and PIJ have refused to allow ICRC to visit the Hostages. This has been the case despite the fact that at least 20 have died in captivity; many others still remaining are sick and/or injured and in need of urgent medical attention; thosereleased have revealed that the conditions of captivity are inhumane and illegal as discussed in greater detail below. Your organization exists to act in circumstances just like these. Indeed, the central mission of the ICRC is to “protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and violence and to provide them with assistance.” Given the widely-known depravity of the conditions of captivity, and the lack of public statements from the ICRC regarding such conditions or demanding access to the Hostages, we request answers to the questions enumerated below regarding why your organization has failed to properly execute its duty to ensure their care and protection, including the role, if any, that Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other countries in the region have played in assisting or obstructing your efforts. Remaining Female Hostages in Gaza Hamas is reportedly still holding 129 Israeli hostages, of which 19 are women. According to the Biden administration, the Palestinian terrorist organizations continue to lie about the existence of these female hostages – purportedlyfor the most nefarious reasons. As State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller said on December 4, “it seems that one of the reasons they don’t want to turn women over that they’ve been holding hostage — and the reason this pause fell apart — is that they don’t want these women to be able to talk about what happened to them during their time in custody.” The obvious implication is that these women have suffered terrible abuse, including sexual violence. The Biden Administration has further stated that Hamas’s refusal torelease the 19 women hostages under the temporary ceasefire agreement caused the termination of that agreement. More recently, multiple senior White House officials confirmed that the White House believes Hamas is not releasing the remaining women hostages because they have been sexually abusing them. Disturbingly, there is already evidence that one of the hostages, still in captivity, had been sexually assaulted when being abducted. Rape is categorically prohibited under IHL, including Article 44 of the Lieber Code and Article 75 of Additional Protocol I and Article 4 of Additional Protocol II.9 The accounts of at least 10 of thereleased hostages included details of sexual assault, and those accounts have been corroborated by medical doctors in Israel. These acts of sexual violence —against both men and women — are clear and medically verified instances of IHL violations. Hamas & PIJ’s Additional Gross Violations of International Humanitarian Law Information provided by the recentlyreleased hostages has revealed a litany of other violations of IHL. Areleased Thai hostage testified that he personally witnessed the beatings of Israeli hostages by their Hamas captors with electric cables. Article 87 of the Third Geneva Convention expresslyforbids “corporal punishment” and “anyform of torture or cruelty.” The lack of adequate medical care, nutrition, and daily medication is also a gross violation of international law. In many cases, Hamas and PIJ deprived hostages of these necessities to such an extent that it led to the deaths of several hostages during captivity, according to medical experts. Under Article 26 of the Geneva Convention, daily food rations “shall be sufficient in quantity, quality and variety to keep prisoners of war in good health and to prevent loss of weight or the development of nutritional deficiencies.” Hamas and PIJ have clearly not abided by this standard. Doctors treating hostages upon theirrelease reported that elderly hostages had lost between 8-15 kg (15-33 pounds) — a staggering 10-20 percent of their body weight — while relatives of children reported that the child hostages had likewise lost “significant amounts of weight.” Indeed, according to certain of the accounts, food was so restricted that hostages would receive only “a quarter of a pita in the morning,” and in one case, a Filipino hostage reported being so hungry that he ate toilet paper (“that’s how my stomach wasn’t empty.)” Hostages have also reported horrendous quarters and sleeping conditions. One hostage described the room she was held in as “suffocating,” and revealed that she wasforced to sleep on plastic chairsfor nearly two months. Other hostages have explained that they were held captive in damp areas without access to sunlight or space to move around. Here again, as you know, Article 25 of the Geneva Convention requires not only bedding and blankets, but also that prisoners “be entirely protected from dampness and adequately heated and lighted, in particular between dusk and lights out.” Reports of the conditions experienced by thereleased hostages clearly fail to meet this standard. There are also reports, confirmed by doctors, that several of the hostages were drugged by Hamas before beingreleased into your care to “make them look happy”for cameras. Drugging prisoners, with no underlying medical necessity and without their consent, is another serious violation of IHL, specifically as it relates to the Geneva Convention’s Additional Protocol II, Article 5(2)(e) with respect to persons deprived of their libertyfor reasons related to the armed conflict. ICRC’s Efforts & Obligations Given the numerous egregious violations of IHL outlined above, it is imperative that the ICRCimmediately attend to the remaining hostages held in Gaza to ensure proof of life and compliance with international law. We understand that the ICRC has made efforts to check on the hostages in Gaza but has been rebuffed by Hamas. We also appreciate that you recently calledfor therelease of the hostages and demanded that the ICRC “be allowed to safely visit them.” However, despite the horrific treatment of the hostages remaining in Gaza, shockingly few international organizations and other countries around the world have aggressively and publicly supported the need to tend to the hostages. The ICRC has been unable to see a single hostage in captivity and has not obtained any proof of life, observed the conditions they are in, or if they are in need of medical assistance. While we appreciate the ICRC’s role in the transportation ofreleased hostages, the status quo is simply insufficient and unacceptable as hostages are raped and die in captivity. According to its own statutes, the ICRC is obligated “to endeavour at all times... to ensure the protection of and assistance to military and civilian victims of such events and of their direct results.” Further, its purpose is “to protect life and health and to ensure respectfor the human being.” By any measurement, the ICRC has been unable to carry out its traditional role as an independent monitor during conflict. Such hostile conditions during armed conflict are not unprecedentedfor the ICRC. Even during the conflict in Bosnia-Herzegovina, the ICRC “often had access to” and “was able to register” captured soldiers and civilians that “fell into the power of adverse parties.” Despite the backdrop of mass murder and well-documented instances of ethnic cleansing and rape, the ICRC was able to gain access —even if hampered and limited — to the Bosnian Serb prisons during the conflict.26 As recently as Saturday evening, the Israel DefenseForces (IDF) announced Inbar Haiman, a 27-year-old Israeli hostage, had been killed during her captivity by Hamas.27 Additionally, the tragic news of the three hostages killed by friendly fire over the weekend only heightens the urgency and needfor their safe return andfor your organization’s protection.28 Their continued captivity not only places them in mortal danger, but prolongs the warfor all parties. For the past two months, and despite increasing requests, your organization has had no access whatsoever to the Israeli hostages held in Gaza. We understand that the ICRC “cannotforce [its] way in” and that it remains neutral “so that we can be trusted,” but its mandate of neutrality cannot be an obstacle to its duty to protect innocent hostages suffering under horrific treatment. Answers Required from ICRC As Members of Congress, we require additional information about the steps that have been taken to protect the well-being of the remaining hostages, eight of which are American. Accordingly, we request answers to the following questions: 1. What efforts has the ICRC made to gain access to hostages in Gaza? a. Please describe any communications the ICRC has had with Hamas or PIJ about access to the hostages, and include in detail what response you have received from Hamas or PIJ, whether directly or through a third party, explaining why they are refusing access. b. Please describe in detail what efforts the ICRC has made to communicate with other countries about gaining access to the hostages, and what response you have received. Please include any and all communications with the governments of Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Iran, among others, as part of your efforts. c. Please describe in detail any discussions you have had with other international organizations to gain access to the hostages, including but not limited to the United Nations and Doctors Without Borders, and what efforts those organizations have made to support the ICRC in getting access to the hostages. 2. What assistance does the ICRC require in order to gain access to the hostages in Gaza? Specifically, what other nations could be helpful in pressuring Hamas to allow the ICRC to safely check on the hostages? 3. What can the United States Congress do to assist the ICRC’s efforts toimmediately gain access to the hostages? 4. What efforts have you made to be responsive to the requests of the families of the hostagesforinformation about their family members? Every day the hostages remain in captivity without proper care is one more day too many. Due to the urgency of the dire circumstances currently facing the hostages, we ask that you respond to this letter as soon as possible and in any event no later than December 29, 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-demands-justice-clarence-thomas-recuse-himself,Congressman Dan Goldman Demands Justice Clarence Thomas Recuse Himself from Upcoming Trump Election Interference Case,2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Read the LetterHere Washington, DC– Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) to demand that Justice Clarence Thomas recuse himself from ruling on United States of America v. Donald J. Trump in whichformer President Donald Trump is charged with conspiring to overturn the legitimate results of the 2020 presidential election, conspiring to obstruct the certification of the electoral vote, and actually obstructing the certification of the electoral vote. Justice Thomas has already recused himself from anappeal by ex-Trump lawyer John Eastman in a case on the January 6 insurrection. “We know through public reporting and through Congressional investigations that your wife, Virginia (“Ginni”) Thomas was intimately involved in Mr. Trump’s alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election and to obstruct its certification – the very conspiracies at issue in this case,”the members wrote. Following Donald Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election, public reporting has revealed that Ginni Thomas, Justice Thomas’ wife, played a pivotal role in urging multiple states to overturn their results in the election as well as exchangingdozens of text messages with Trump’s Chief of Staff Mark Meadows,urging him to continue their scheme of election fraud. “These details about your wife’s activities raise serious questions about your ability to be or even to appear impartial in any cases before the Supreme Court involving the 2020 election and the January 6th insurrection,” the members continued. “If you want to show the American people that the Supreme Court’s recent Code of Conduct is worth more than the paper it is written on, you must do the honorable thing and recuse yourself from any decisions in the case of United States v. Trump.” Congressman Dan Goldman hasrepeatedly called on Chief Justice John Roberts to establish an ethics counsel within Supreme Court to standardize ethics procedures, advise justices on ethical issues, and prevent ethical misjudgements. Congressman Goldman is also a cosponsor of theSupreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency (SCERT) Act and theJudicial Ethics and Anti-Corruption Act toformally establish a code of conductfor Supreme Court Justices. Read the letterhere or below: Dear Justice Thomas, This week, Special Counsel Jack Smith asked the Supreme Court to decide a key question in the case of United States of America v. Donald J. Trump, a case in which Mr. Trump is charged with conspiring to overturn the legitimate results of the 2020 presidential election, conspiring to obstruct the certification of the electoral vote, and actually obstructing the certification of the electoral vote. In this week’s filing, Mr. Smith asked the Supreme Court to grant certiorari to decide “Whether aformer President is absolutely immune from federal prosecutionforcrimes committed while in office or is constitutionally protected from federal prosecution when he has been impeached but not convicted before the criminal proceedings begin.” The Supreme Court has directed Mr. Trump to file a response to the requestfor certiorari.For the reasons explained below, we strongly implore you to exercise your discretion and recuse yourself from this and any other decisions in the case of United States v. Trump. Faith in the Supreme Court has plummeted, and fewer than half of all Americans trust the Supreme Court. Public perception is growing that the Supreme Court flouts the rules, in large part due to your recently reported ties to and luxury travel with billionaire Republican donors that you hidfor decades. The public pressure has grown so intense, that last month the Supreme Court announced aformal—though unenforceable—Code of Conduct. You signed the Code, publicly proclaiming that you subscribe to it. In Cannon 3B, the Code states that “A Justice should disqualify himself or herself in a proceeding in which the Justice’s impartiality might reasonably be questioned, that is, where an unbiased and reasonable person who is aware of all relevant circumstances would doubt that the Justice could fairly discharge his or her duties.” The Code details such instances, including those in which “The Justice or Justice’s spouse...is known by the Justice:...(iii) to have an interest that could be substantially affected by the outcome of the proceeding; or (iv) likely to be a material witness in the proceeding.” We know through public reporting and through Congressional investigations that your wife, Virginia (“Ginni”) Thomas was intimately involved in Mr. Trump’s alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election and to obstruct its certification – the very conspiracies at issue in this case. Your wife not only attended the pro-Trump rally that preceded the January 6th attack on the United States Capitol, she was one of nine board membersfor a conservative political group that helped lead the “Stop the Steal” movement. She traded at least 29 text messages with Mr. Trump’s Chief of Staff (Mark Meadows) in which she urged him to “pursue unrelenting efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election,” startingimmediately after Election Day 2020 and ending only days after the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol. In these text messages, your wife pleaded with Mr. Meadows to continue the fight to overturn the election results, calling the election a “heist” and saying in one message: “Sounds like Sidney and her team are getting inundated with evidence of fraud. Make a plan.Release the Kraken and save us from the left taking America down.” Your wife also pressed Arizona and Wisconsin lawmakers to overturn President Biden’s 2020 victory, urging them to set aside President Biden’s popular-vote victory and to choose their own presidential electors, despite state law to the contrary. These details about your wife’s activities raise serious questions about your ability to be or even to appear impartial in any cases before the Supreme Court involving the 2020 election and the January 6th insurrection. If you want to show the American people that the Supreme Court’s recent Code of Conduct is worth more than the paper it is written on, you must do the honorable thing and recuse yourself from any decisions in the case of United States v. Trump.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-urges-new-york-city-economic-development-corporation,Congressman Dan Goldman Urges New York City Economic Development Corporation to Prioritize Cold Storage Capabilities for New Pier 11 Anchor Tenant,2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Cold Storage in Red Hook Marine Terminal Necessary to Accommodate Storage of Fresh Produce Before Distribution to Brooklyn and Beyond Absence of Cold Storage Capability at Marine Terminal Requires Produce to be Shipped out of New Yorkfor Storage before Being Shipped Back for Distribution Exacerbates Traffic, Diesel Truck Pollution, Erosion of Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, and Heightens Pedestrian Safety Concerns Read the LetterHere Washington, DC– Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) with New York State Senator Andrew Gounardes, New York State Assemblymember Marcela Mitaynes, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, and New York City Councilmember Alexa Avilés wrote a letter to the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) urging them to select a sublease proposal at Pier 11 of the Red Hook Marine Terminal that will include cold storage capabilities near the Red Hook Marine Terminal. The Red Hook Marine Terminal piers accept domestic and international freightfor distribution across the tri-state area, especially Brooklyn. Currently, fresh produce shipped into the Red Hook Marine Terminal must be transported by truck to locations outside of New York City where it can be refrigerated. Once the produce is readyfor distribution, it is oftentimes transported right back into Brooklyn, increasing the necessary truck trafficfor any perishable cargo. “The future of Red Hook Marine Terminal must be one that protects New Yorkers, mitigates exacerbated safety risks, and supports good-paying maritime jobs in Brooklyn,”the lawmakers wrote. “As outlined on your website, one of the four governing strategies of the NYCEDC is to 'deliver sustainable infrastructurefor communities and the city’s future economy.' We believe that the addition of cold storage at the port will both satisfy that strategy and add value to the site. To that end, we urge you to prioritize applications that include such accommodationsfor tenancy at Pier 11.” The Red Hook community is disproportionately affected by this lack of cold storage. The current situation leads to increased traffic in and around Red Hook, increases diesel pollution from the truck deliveries, accelerates the erosion of the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, and heightens safety concernsfor pedestrians. Congressman Dan Goldman is committed to fightingfor environmental justice across New York City. In February, Goldmanjoined Councilmember Alexa Avilés to call on New York City to pursue an environmental assessment of last mile delivery hubs and excess truck traffic in Red Hook and Sunset Park. In March, the Congressman hosted two town halls that brought the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to the table to hear and consider input from coastal communities that will be impacted by planned USACE climate resiliency projects inGowanus, Red Hook, andLower Manhattan. Congressman Goldman is a member of theSustainable Energy and Environment Coalition. Read the letterhere or below: Dear Mr. Kimball, As you review submissions to the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) Pier 11 Anchor Tenant sublease requestfor proposal (RFP), we write to strongly urge you to select a proposal that will include much-needed cold storage near the Red Hook Marine Terminal. The maritime industry in Red Hook is vitally important to the economic health of Brooklyn and the larger New York City (NYC) area. As both a metaphoric and physical gateway to the city, the piers at Red Hook Marine Terminal accept domestic and international freightfor distribution across the tri-state area, especially Brooklyn. Unfortunately, as you know, the current port infrastructure in Red Hook is aging, inefficiently used, and in some cases, outright decrepit. With this RFP, NYCEDC has the opportunity to reimagine the industrial maritime footprint in Red Hook with the goal of catalyzing blue highway freight efficiencies and reducing the insidious truck pollution that disproportionally harms the health and well-being of vulnerable communities in Red Hook and beyond. As we understand it, the current infrastructure at Red Hook Marine Terminal cannot accommodate the storage of the fresh produce it brings in, necessitating shipment of it by truck to locations outside of NYC where it can be refrigerated while awaiting distribution—often right back into Brooklyn. This process entirely defeats the environmental benefits of the blue highway. This continuous truck traffic to and from faraway cold storage is profoundly wasteful and needlessly harmful to residents of Red Hook. In addition, it exacerbates the dire environmental justice concerns in our communities by clogging residential streets with heavy trucks, spewing diesel pollution into a neighborhood where air quality is consistently worse than NYC averages and upper-respiratory illnesses are more prevalent, adding to the erosion of the already vulnerable Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE), and posing safety risksfor our constituents on small side streets which were built to accommodate passenger car, bike, and foot traffic but not commercial truck traffic. In a study conducted by the Guardian and the Consumer Reports, they found that more than 1,200 trucks and vans drive daily on Van Brunt Street, a narrow but heavily frequented corridor lined with parked cars and shops. Since 2020, there have been 35 truck crashes in Red Hook, resulting in over 50 injuries. We owe it to our environmental justice communities — such as Red Hook —to take action whenever possible. The availability of Pier 11 presents the ideal opportunity to establish an adequate cold storage facility at the Red Hook Marine Terminal that wouldimmediately and simultaneously reduce the volume of truck traffic plaguing the neighborhood and eliminate severe supply-chain inefficiencies. The future of Red Hook Marine Terminal must be one that protects New Yorkers, mitigates exacerbated safety risks, and supports good-paying maritime jobs in Brooklyn. As outlined on your website, one of the four governing strategies of the NYCEDC is to “deliver sustainable infrastructurefor communities and the city’s future economy.” We believe that the addition of cold storage at the port will both satisfy that strategy and add value to the site. To that end, we urge you to prioritize applications that include such accommodationsfor tenancy at Pier 11.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-joe-morelle-senator-ron-wyden-call-additional-support-community,"REPRESENTATIVE JOE MORELLE, SENATOR RON WYDEN CALL FOR ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FOR COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE CENTERS",2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Joseph D. Morelle,M001206,morelle.house.gov,morelle,https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Rochester, N.Y.) — Today, Congressman Joe Morelle (D, NY-25) and Senator Ron Wyden (D, OR) called on the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to adjust their funding criteria for Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alikes and provide them with a more meaningful pathway to qualify for these federal resources. “Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alikes are the unsung heroes of our healthcare system, working to fill the gaps in healthcare accessibility by breaking down barriers that have historically prevented underserved communities from accessing the medical services they need,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “By expanding the resources available to FQHC Look-Alikes, we can help ensure their services are available to even more people and families across our communities and raise everyone’s quality of life. I’m grateful to Senator Wyden and all my House and Senate colleagues for joining with me on this important issue, and I look forward to future opportunities for us to collaborate and continue the fight for our families.” “Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alikes are essential in making sure underserved communities get access to the health care they need,” said Senator Ron Wyden. “These health centers deserve to have their impact recognized with federal support. Making sure they have the funding they need will mean more people in more communities served in Oregon and nationwide.” “Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alikes, such as Trillium Health, provide high quality healthcare and supportive services to underserved populations, regardless of their ability to pay,” said Jason Barnecut-Kearns, President and CEO of Trillium Health. “Look-Alikes serve over 1 million patients nationwide are they are a crucial component of the safety net; however, they experience significant gaps in funding. Although Look-Alikes are held to the same clinical, financial, and administrative requirements as other FQHCs, they are not eligible for base grant funding, supplemental funding, or other benefits. Trillium Health is deeply grateful to Congressman Joe Morelle and Senator Ron Wyden for leading the charge to support healthcare providers in underserved communities. In addition, we would like to thank all the members of Congress who signed the letter to support a pathway for Look-Alikes to become full-FQHCs. If we can achieve equal funding, we will be able to serve more people, which will increase the health and wellbeing of the entire community.” FQHC Look-Alikes are community-based healthcare providers that provide comprehensive, wrap-around primary, and behavioral healthcare services to medically underserved populations, regardless of their ability to pay. Congress created this program in 1990 to expand access to healthcare for uninsured and Medicaid populations, and organizations often seek Look-Alike status as a step to becoming a full-fledged FQHC. While FQHC Look-Alikes meet the requirements of HRSA’s Health Center Program, they—unlike the nearly 1,400 FQHCs (also known as Community Health Centers) across the country—do not receive Health Center Program funding under Section 330 of the Public Health Service Act. Look-Alikes are also disqualified from receiving malpractice insurance benefits and are unable to compete for supplemental funding opportunities. The letter requests the HRSA modify this methodology so that FQHC Look-Alikes are not penalized for their current efforts to treat unserved and underserved areas. Additional co-signers of this letter in the House of Representatives are Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, Rep. Ken Calvert, Rep. Josh Harder, Rep. Mike Kelly, Rep. Young Kim, Rep. Katie Porter, and Rep. Andrea Salinas. Additional co-signers in the Senate are Senator Bob Casey, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Senator Angus King, Senator Jeffrey Merkley, and Senator Alex Padilla. Read the full text of their letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4044,Tonko Honors 2023 NY-20 Congressional App Challenge Winners at Shaker High School,2023-12-18,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"LATHAM, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko visited Shaker High School in Latham today to recognize Ayush Patel, Michael Tong, and Kush Malwatkar, members of the winning team in the 2023 Congressional App Challenge for New York’s 20th Congressional District. During the visit, Tonko delivered congratulatory remarks and presented each student with a Congressional Certificate of Achievement and a letter of recognition for this exciting honor. “I am continually impressed by the creativity and ingenuity put on display by our Capital Region students with their submissions for the Congressional App Challenge, and this year was no exception,” Congressman Tonko said. “With their IBUCK app, Ayush, Michael, and Kush demonstrated both their top-notch technical skills and an admirable desire to help their peers gain basic financial literacy and make savvier investment decisions. I’m proud to acknowledge the contribution of these students to our Capital Region’s rich history of technological innovation, and I’m grateful to Ayush, Michael, and Kush for their hard work. Congratulations to all the students who participated in this year’s App Challenge!” The winning app, IBUCK, is a web application that helps users learn about common types of investments and allows people to calculate the expected profit from their investments based on the types of investments they own. The app also includes a list of common business terms with basic explanations of each term, helping users gain critical financial literacy skills. Ayush, Michael, and Kush were inspired to create IBUCK after being overwhelmed by the variety of options when they first began making their own investments. After speaking with friends and family members about their own investments and finding a similar lack of knowledge of investment basics and financial products, they set out to create IBUCK as a resource for their peers and others interested in learning more about the subject. You can learn more about the app by visiting its webpage, ibuckhome.netlify.app, or by viewing the students’ submission video on YouTube. This year’s NY-20 Congressional App Challenge winner was chosen by a distinguished panel of local judges, including Dr. Mohammed J. Zaki, Professor and Department Head of Computer Science at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Annmarie Lanesey, CEO and Founder of CanCode Communities, and Tobi Saulnier, CEO of 1st Playable Productions. The Congressional App Challenge was created by Congress in 2013 to encourage innovation and engagement in coding, computer science, and STEM education. The App Challenge is open to all eligible middle and high school-aged students in New York’s 20th Congressional District, regardless of coding experience. To view and download photos of Congressman Tonko’s meeting with Ayush and Michael, see the Congressman’s social media posts HERE, HERE, and HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://clarke.house.gov/clarke-celebrates-passage-of-bipartisan-measure-to-eliminate-cuts-to-medicaid-disproportionate-share-hospital-payments/,CLARKE CELEBRATES PASSAGE OF BIPARTISAN MEASURE TO ELIMINATE CUTS TO MEDICAID DISPROPORTIONATE SHARE HOSPITAL PAYMENTS,2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 15, 2023 MEDIA CONTACT: e: brian.phillips@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement celebrating the passage of H.R. 5378, the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act: “Earlier this year, I introduced the bipartisan bill, H.R. 2665, the Supporting Safety Net Hospitals Act, to amend Title XIX of the Social Security Act to eliminate pending cuts to Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) payments. Medicaid DSH payments are a lifeline for the safety net hospitals that care for the low-income and the sickest patients in our health care system. And as hospitals continue to struggle through the lingering impacts from COVID-19, this is one financial burden many hospitals should not need to contend with at this time. “With the inclusion of this measure in the newly House-passed bill, the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act, many of my constituents in Brooklyn and millions of Americans nationwide will be able to continue to rely on these facilities for their most fundamental health care needs.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/espaillat-wasserman-schultz-lead-congressional-effort-urging-colombia-and,"Espaillat, Wasserman Schultz Lead Congressional Effort Urging Colombia and Argentina to Bring Dual Citizen Colombian-Israeli and Argentinian-Israeli Hostages Home",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Today, Latino-Jewish Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), along with other Caucus members, sent two letters to the Presidents and Ambassadors of Colombia and Argentina to facilitate the immediate release of dual citizen Israeli hostages Elkana Bohbot, Yair Horn, and Eitan Horn, as well as all other hostages currently in Hamas’s custody. Elkana, Yair, and Eitan are among the group of 100+ Israeli hostages that remain in Hamas custody after they were kidnapped during Hamas’s October 7th terrorist attack on Israel. In light of the ongoing situation in Gaza and Hamas’s well-documented brutality, there is a critical need for the United States, Colombia, and Argentina to mobilize all available diplomatic resources to bring them home to their families as soon as possible. Earlier this month, Reps. Espaillat and Wasserman Schultz held a meeting with family members and friends of the hostages still held captive in Gaza. Among them was Dalia Paulina, sister-in-law to Yair and Eitan Horn, who are dual Israeli and Argentinian citizens. The Members also met with Jacob Bohbot, the brother of Elkana Bohbot, who is a dual Colombian and Israeli Citizen. The family members told stories of Elkana, Yair, and Ethan’s life before being taken hostage, and discussed the numerous family members and multiple young children that await their safe return. “As concerned members of the Congressional Latino-Jewish Caucus,” said Rep. Espaillat, “we are encouraged by the bravery and tireless advocacy of these hostages’ families, and we look forward to the future engagement of President Petro and the Colombian Embassy, as well as President Milei and the Argentine Embassy, with the Caucus in order to assist Elkana, Yair, and Eitan, and bring them home as soon as possible. These hostages’ chances of survival in Hamas custody continue to hang by a thread with every passing day, necessitating immediate action from all corners of the world. We need action now. Rep. Espaillat continued, “our congressional letters urge the nations of Colombia and Argentina to use every diplomatic tool at their disposal and leave no stone unturned to help secure the swift and immediate release of Elkana, Yair, Eitan, and all other hostages who remain in Hamas captivity in Gaza.” “It's unconscionable that innocent civilians from dozens of countries are still being held by Hamas after two months,"" said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. ""Part of the founding mission of the Latino-Jewish Caucus is strengthening and deepening the Jewish community's bonds with historic partners like Argentina and Colombia and their diasporas in the U.S. But it's incumbent on all of us to step up our efforts to free all hostages, and despite our disagreements with President Petro and President Milei, we need all the help we can get to reunite these families."" They were joined in signing the letter by Reps. Yvette D. Clarke, Jared Moskowitz, Brad Schneider, Darren Soto, and Juan Vargas. The two letters can be read in full here and here. # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-deliver-nearly-30-million-to-improve-safety-of-notoriously-dangerous-queens-boulevard-through-a-bipartisan-infrastructure-and-jobs-law-program-fed-grant-will-help-improve-local-roadway-and-strengthen-pedestrian-safety-with-elevated-crosswalks-enhanced-medians-and-protected-bike-lanes,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND DELIVER NEARLY $30 MILLION TO IMPROVE SAFETY OF NOTORIOUSLY DANGEROUS QUEENS BOULEVARD; THROUGH A BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE & JOBS LAW PROGRAM, FED GRANT WILL HELP IMPROVE LOCAL...",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"New Grant Will Help New York City Execute Safety Action Plan And Boost Road Safety Features For Queens Boulevard Senators Say “Safe Streets and Roads for All” Fed Grants, Created In The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, Will Help Communities Save Lives With Proven Safety Measures Like Elevated Protected Bicycle Lanes, Pedestrian Refuge Islands, Pedestrian Malls, And More Schumer, Gillibrand: Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Is Driving Road Improvements And Paving The Way For Increased Safety On Streets Across NY Today, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $29,750,000 in federal funds to implement road safety improvements for a section of Queens Boulevard in Woodside. This $29.75 million federal grant is part of Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A), a program created in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law Schumer led to passage. Schumer and Gillibrand said this funding will help implement a safety action plan for Queens Boulevard, including elevated crosswalks and pedestrian malls, enhanced medians and pedestrian refuge islands, as well as elevated protected bike lanes. The funding will also enable enhanced monitoring of traffic injuries and expand the use of Intelligent Speed Assistance technology. “This substantial federal investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Law will help New York City implement multiple life-saving measures on Queens Boulevard. From elevated crosswalks, pedestrian malls and refuge islands, to enhanced medians and elevated, protected bike lanes, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists alike will be safer with these improvements,” said Senator Schumer. “These federal funds empower New York City to strengthen roadway safety by implementing proven measures that will reduce injuries and traffic related incidents. I’m proud to deliver this federal grant that will help improve the safety of this central roadway, and help save lives by driving forward much needed safety features, stopping accidents before they happen, and laying the foundation for safer streets.” “Queens Boulevard is one of New York City’s most dangerous roads, where dozens of pedestrians have died over the past few decades,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I am so proud to bring home nearly $30 million in federal funding to reimagine the corridor, significantly reduce accidents and injuries, and make Queens Boulevard safe for our families to use.” According to New York City Department of Transportation, 233 people, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists, were injured on Queens Boulevard between Union Turnpike and Jamaica Avenue from 2016 to 2020. Due to high rates of severe pedestrian injuries, Queens Boulevard became a Vision Zero priority for New York City. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Schumer led to passage as Majority Leader, established the SS4A discretionary program with $5 billion in appropriated funds over 5 years, 2022-2026. The SS4A program funds regional, local, and Tribal initiatives through grants to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law more than doubled funding for surface transportation programs that improve roadway safety.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://clarke.house.gov/reps-clarke-lesko-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-directing-nih-to-conduct-unprecedented-menopause-research/,"REPS CLARKE, LESKO INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION DIRECTING NIH TO CONDUCT UNPRECEDENTED MENOPAUSE RESEARCH",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 14, 2023 MEDIA CONTACT: e: brian.phillips@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (AZ-08) introduced H.R. 6749, the Menopause Research and Equity Act of 2023, which requires the National Institute of Health to evaluate the results and status of completed and ongoing research related to menopause, perimenopause, or mid-life women’s health, to conduct and support additional such research, and for other purposes. “For too long, menopause has remained stigmatized, or even ignored entirely. Women facing this common, natural condition are told to be silent and hide their struggles, only because they may make men uncomfortable. We are told these life changes are just the burden of being a woman. All the while, the nation-wide attack on women’s bodies has only continued to erode our rights,” said Congresswoman Clarke. “A woman’s value should not be defined by the end of her fertility. It’s Congress’ responsibility to support the millions of women facing menopause to confront their new normal, as well as to help them thrive and reach their full potential in mid-life and beyond. And the meaningful resources within my legislation will do just that.” “I’m proud to be the Republican lead on the bipartisan Menopause Research and Equity Act, which requires the NIH to conduct further research on vital components of women’s health. We hope that our colleagues will join together to approve this legislation and provide a brighter future for our daughters and granddaughters,” said Congresswoman Lesko. “Let’s Talk Menopause was born out of a need to bring light to the menopause journey—a phase that every woman experiences yet often navigates in silence. The Menopause Research and Equity Act is the next step in the cause we’ve dedicated ourselves to. It’s about time we normalize menopause, equipping women with the resources and support they need to embrace this phase with confidence and pride,” said Donna Klassen, Co-Founder of Let’s Talk Menopause. “At the National Menopause Foundation, our goal has always been to bring menopause to the forefront of health conversations. The Menopause Research and Equity Act is a crucial milestone in this journey, offering an opportunity to transform understanding and care for women at this critical life stage. This legislation represents a significant advance in empowering women through education, support, and research-focused on menopause,” said Claire Gill, Founder & President of the National Menopause Foundation. “The Menopause Research and Equity Act marks a watershed moment in our journey towards comprehensive women’s health rights. It’s a clear signal that the experiences and needs of women are finally being recognized and prioritized. This act is more than just a policy change; it’s a reflection of our commitment to ensuring that every aspect of women’s health is understood, respected, and adequately addressed,” said Jennifer Weiss-Wolf, Executive Director of NYU’s Law’s Birnbaum Women’s Leadership Center and LTM Board Member. “This act represents a monumental shift in how we approach women’s health, particularly during menopause. It acknowledges the complexities and varied experiences of menopausal women, paving the way for more nuanced research and healthcare. As a gynecologist deeply invested in this field, I see this as a critical step towards providing women with the comprehensive and empathetic care they deserve at every stage of life,” said Robin Noble MD, Medical Director, Intermed; Board member & Chief Medical Advisor of LTM. “Discovering the power of shared experiences during menopause has been a transformative journey. The Menopause Research and Equity Act is not just legislation; it’s a validation of millions of women’s experiences. It’s a movement towards a society where the transition of menopause is met with open dialogue, support, and the care it deserves,” said Tamsen Fadal Journalist; author; menopause advocate; Let’s Talk Menopause Board Member and LTM Ambassador. “Understanding menopause’s impact on mental health is as crucial as addressing its physical symptoms. The Menopause Research and Equity Act brings this vital aspect to light, advocating for comprehensive care that encompasses both physical health and mental health issues in Menopause. It is also important to address the disparities in menopause care in black women because they are undertreated yet experience more severe menopause symptoms,” said Judith Joseph MD, MBA, Board Certified Psychiatrist, Chair, Women in Medicine at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Clinical Assistant Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, NYU Langone Medical Center, Principal Investigator, Manhattan Behavioral Medicine; LTM Medical Advisory Board. “In my dual role as a urologist and sexual medicine expert, I’ve seen how critical comprehensive care is for women’s sexual health, particularly during menopause. The Menopause Research and Equity Act represents a much-needed focus in healthcare. It’s not just about providing care; it’s about understanding the unique sexual health challenges women face at this stage and addressing them with the respect and depth they require,” said Rachel Rubin MD, Urologist & Sexual Medicine Specialist; Education Chair for The International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH) , LTM Medical Advisory Board. “Menopause has long been a topic shrouded in silence, often viewed through the lens of aging rather than as a significant health phase. The Menopause Research and Equity Act is a monumental step in changing this narrative. It’s about opening up conversations, dispelling myths, and ensuring that women have the resources and support they need to navigate menopause confidently,” said Mary Jane Minkin MD, OB/GYN; Clinical Professor, Yale Medical School, LTM Medical Advisory Board. “My tenure at the National Consumers League has been marked by a steadfast commitment to advancing healthcare reform and consumer rights. The Menopause Research and Equity Act is a crucial development in this arena, as it addresses a gap in women’s healthcare that is often overlooked. This act embodies the principles of consumer advocacy and protection that I have championed, particularly in ensuring equitable access and safe medication use for all women experiencing menopause,” said Sally Greenberg JD, Executive Director of The National Consumers League. “Through my work, I’ve seen the profound impact of breaking down myths around women’s health. The Menopause Research and Equity Act opens doors to better understanding and managing menopause, transforming it from a whispered-about topic to an openly discussed health issue. This is about empowering women with the tools to live their best lives, regardless of their stage in life,” said Kelly Casperson MD, Urologist, LTM Medical Advisory Board. “Understanding perimenopause and menopause is not just a matter of women’s health; it is an initial investment in ensuring the well-being of generations of women to come. By supporting The Menopause Research and Equity Act, we can begin to unravel the complexities of these life phases, uncover the intersectionality with chronic health conditions, and ensure each woman’s lived experience is at the forefront of research and healthcare – something that embodies the mission of Let’s Talk Menopause,” said Cathy Rought Jacobson Board Member Let’s Talk Menopause and President & CEO of Integritas Public Affairs. “My work has always been driven by the belief that we need to embrace and openly discuss menopause. The Menopause Research and Equity Act does more than just allocate funds; it shifts societal attitudes towards aging and women’s health. This legislation is a crucial step towards acknowledging the rich, productive lives women lead post-menopause and ensuring they have the information and support they need to navigate this transition with confidence and dignity,” said​Sharon Malone MD, Chief Medical Advisor, Alloy, LTM Medical Advisory Board. “Throughout my career in women’s health, I’ve seen firsthand the complexities and challenges of menopause care. The Menopause Research and Equity Act isn’t just legislation; it’s a beacon for advancing our understanding and treatment of menopause. It’s about giving women the comprehensive care they’ve long deserved, something I’ve been advocating for in my practice,” said Lisa Larkin MD, Founder & CEO, Ms. Medicine. “As a psychologist deeply invested in women’s sexual and reproductive health, I applaud the introduction of the Menopause Research and Equity Act. This legislation is not just about healthcare; it’s about acknowledging the complex interplay of biological and psychological factors women face during menopause. It’s a commitment to advancing our understanding and treatment of menopause symptoms and ensuring women receive the holistic care that is crucial during this phase of life,” said Sheryl Kingsberg PhD, Chief of Behavioral Medicine, University Hospital Cleveland Medical Center, LTM Medical Advisory Board. Specifically, the Menopause Research and Equity Act of 2023 would: Direct the National Institutes of Health to evaluate current menopause-related research and submit a report to Congress on its findings. Identify the total amount of funding allocated by the National Institutes of Health for the conduct or support of menopause-related research, and research on midlife women’s health over the preceding 5 fiscal years. The full bill text is available here. Photographs from the legislation’s introductory press conference are available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-goldman-secures-676-million-funding-911-first-responders-and,Congressman Goldman Secures $676 Million in Funding for 9/11 First Responders and Survivors Health Care Fund,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Funding Amendment Led by Goldman Included in Final NDAA Bill Passed by House and Senate Additional Relief Adds $444 Million, Addresses Funding Shortfall in the World Trade Center Health Program Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) along with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Senator Mike Braun (R-IN), and Congressmen Andrew Garbarino (NY-02) and Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) secured $676 million to address funding shortfalls in the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) budget. The ‘National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)’ for Fiscal Year 2024 includes their bipartisan, bicameral amendment to provide an additional $444 million to the program over the coming years to address the impending budget shortfall and $232 million to ensure that all first responders to the Pentagon and Shanksville attacks are covered by the program as well. “Living in downtown Manhattan on 9/11, I will never forget watching the second plane hit the Towers and the soot-covered people walking up Hudson Street,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “Today the House of Representatives renewed its commitment to the first responders and survivors whose lives were upended that day. This funding will go a long way to ensuring that we provide them with the coverage and care they deserve.” After years of efforts and calls on the federal government, Congress established the WTCHP on a bipartisan basis in 2011 with a five-year authorization to provide medical treatment and monitoring for 9/11 responders and survivors suffering from the effects of the toxins at Ground Zero. The program covers the lifespans of all exposed, including responders and survivors of the attack on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, the Shanksville crash site, children who were in schools in downtown Manhattan on 9/11 and during clean-up, and those who have since experienced, or are expected to experience, adverse health effects that are linked to the attacks in the coming years. The WTCHP was reauthorized in 2015 and extended through 2090 with bipartisan support. In 2022, lawmakers delivered $1 billion for the program in the end-of-year spending bill. Unfortunately, this funding is not enough to keep pace with the anticipated costs of providing the program’s services for the over 120,000 9/11 first responders and survivors, who span all fifty states and reside in 434 of the 435 congressional districts. This additional funding will ensure that the program will continue to serve impacted first responders and survivors in the coming years. Congressman Goldman is fighting for all those suffering from the effects of the 9/11 terror attacks to be covered by the World Trade Center Health Program. In February, Goldman joined Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Congressmembers Andrew R. Garbarino (NY-02), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), and Anthony D'Esposito (NY-04), Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-NY), Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), 9/11 health program advocates, and 9/11 responders and survivors to announce the bipartisan ‘9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act’ to close the remaining funding shortfall in the World Trade Center Health Program. In September, Congressman Goldman hosted the WTCHP’s Dr. Joan Reibman and 9/11 Environmental Action’s Director Kimberly Flynn for an information and community feedback session on the WTCHP’s new 9/11 Youth Research Cohort. The Youth Research Cohort was created by the 2023 Federal Spending Bill to study the long-term health of individuals who were aged 21 years or younger – including those in utero – at the time of the 9/11 attacks and were exposed to the toxins released in the aftermath of the attacks on Ground Zero. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4042,"Tonko, Bilirakis Bipartisan Parkinson’s Bill Passes House",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Representatives Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) celebrated the advance of his National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act out of the House this morning in an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 407-9. This legislation, introduced and championed alongside Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), would unite the federal government in a mission to cure and prevent Parkinson’s disease. Yesterday, Tonko managed floor debate and spoke to the importance of this legislation. In addition to thanking his colleagues and local and national advocates, he recognized the pivotal work of his friend and colleague Jennifer Wexton who—following a diagnosis of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) which she referred to as “Parkinson’s on steroids”—became a critical and steadfast advocate in calling for the advance of this legislation and giving a voice to the Parkinson’s community. A clip of Tonko’s emotional remarks can be viewed HERE. Full remarks that Tonko delivered on the floor can be read below: I rise today in support of the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act. These past few years I have been honored to champion this legislation on behalf of the more than 1 million American’s living with Parkinson’s. I first learned more in depth about Parkinson’s from a friend who suffered with it. So when the opportunity arose to partner with Congressman Bilirakis on this meaningful effort I jumped right in and made it my personal mission to get this done on behalf of the millions of people living with Parkinson’s. As you may know, currently, there are no treatments to cure, prevent, or significantly slow down its progression. Parkinson’s is the second most common neurological disease and is unfortunately growing – fast. I do want to highlight that there is hope on the horizon. Earlier this year, researchers discovered a new biomarker for Parkinson’s disease. This is an exciting step forward, but much more research and coordination is needed. Our bipartisan, no-cost legislation will, for the first time, unite the federal government in a mission to cure and prevent Parkinson’s, alleviate financial and health burdens on American families, and reduce government spending over time. This pioneering legislation is greatly needed. This bill will bring federal stakeholders and nonfederal experts together to implement a national plan to prevent and cure the disease, improve diagnosis and treatment options, and lessen the burden for caregivers and families. The bill text is modeled off the successful National Alzheimer’s Project model which brought together many parts of the federal government to improve the federal response. Once signed into law, this bill will do for Parkinson’s, what the National Plan did for Alzheimer’s and bring together coordination, care and research all to help those with Parkinson’s as well as their loved ones. This would help bring a strong focus to a cure, treatment and also prevention. It will shine a needed light on the suffering relating to Parkinson’s. Sadly, we recognize that environmental triggers are likely a part of Parkinson’s but so much is still unknown. More research and coordination are critical to getting answers to these questions. Thank you to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for everything you do but especially all the work on this bill. And thank you to the New York based groups and advocates who stood by my side demanding action on this bill and giving a face to Parkinson’s. Together with patients, families and medical professionals we learned about the challenges of Parkinson’s and why this bill is urgently needed. Thank you to my good friend Gus Bilirakis for working on the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act with me. It’s an honor to work with you on this and I know how much this means to you personally and I thank you for your relentless work to push this forward. The loss of your brother and mother-in-law in this last year has been devastating. I admire how you have channeled that pain and committed to making a difference so that we can bring hope to those with Parkinson’s. Thank you to Chairwoman Rodgers and Ranking Member Pallone for staying with us and finding a resolution to move this meaningful bill forward. I think the end product here is strong and something we can all be proud of. Thank you to Congressman Guthrie and Congresswoman Eshoo for your support as well. And thank you to our committee staff for your hard work on bringing this together. Special thanks to Tiffany Guarascio, Una Lee, Waverly Gordon, Shana Beavin and Jacquelyn Bolen for all your efforts. I also want to thank our good friend Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton who when faced with a devastating diagnosis, not only joined this fight but became one of the most vocal advocates fighting for the Parkinson’s community. As many of you know, Congresswoman Wexton was first diagnosed with PSP this year which she describes as a kind of ‘Parkinson’s on steroids”. Jennifer, today and every day you give a face to Parkinson’s and you are changing the future for those who have not yet received the diagnosis and those who will benefit from the National Plan to End Parkinson’s. I thank you for your advocacy and for bravely sharing publicly about your journey. I value your friendship and am in awe of your determination and your journey. I understand that receiving a Parkinson’s diagnosis is truly devastating for individuals and their loved ones. It is incumbent on Congress to ensure Americans know they will be supported during this frightening and life-altering time. Our legislation does just that and offers a dose of hope. This is a commonsense, compassionate bill that will establish a robust response to address Parkinson’s and ensure that patients and their families receive the care they need. By moving this forward we will make a positive difference, improve lives and even save lives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-adriano-espaillat-again-leads-new-york-city-delegation-calling,Representative Adriano Espaillat Again Leads New York City Delegation in Calling for an End to Solitary Confinement,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) led all Democratic members of the New York City congressional delegation in a letter to New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, echoing their support to ban solitary confinement in New York City. This is the second such letter led by Rep. Espaillat, who sent a similar letter to former City Council Speaker Corey Johnson in December of 2021. “In New York City jails, as in jurisdictions across the nation, solitary confinement is known to impose severe suffering and deterioration on an individual’s mental and physical well-being,” wrote Rep. Espaillat. “Solitary confinement causes heart disease, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and self-mutilation. Prolonged exposure is directly linked to grave outcomes, including death—a fact which New York City’s prisons are no stranger to. The continued use of solitary confinement,” said Espaillat, “makes our City’s jails less safe, especially for Black New Yorkers, who account for approximately 49% of the population in state prisons and 61% of those held in solitary confinement.” The letter follows a report by the Correctional Association of New York from earlier this year, which cited the New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision’s overall lack of adherence and failure to implement New York state’s current statute, the HALT Solitary Confinement Act, which places limits and restrictions on the practice of solitary confinement in state prisons, prompting the need for additional action at the federal and local levels. In addition to Rep. Espaillat, the letter was signed by all 10 Democratic members of the New York City congressional delegation, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08) and Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07) , Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16), Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Jerold Nadler (NY-12), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Grace Meng (NY-06), and New York City’s newest congressional delegation member, Rep. Dan Goldman (NY-10). “Solitary confinement has been repeatedly proven to deteriorate the physical and mental wellbeing of inmates who are forced to endure it, especially those subjected to confinement for long periods of time. The damage inflicted by solitary confinement hinders formerly incarcerated individuals’ ability to effectively rejoin society at the end of their sentence. As a member of the Congressional Second Chance Task Force,” said Rep. Goldman, “I know that by eliminating solitary confinement in New York City’s jails, we will improve rates of rehabilitation and reduce recidivism in a fairer, more humane criminal justice system.” Akeem Browder, founder of the Kalief Browder Foundation, also applauded the efforts of the New York City congressional delegation, stating “We are grateful to Congressman Espaillat and the full New York City House of Representatives delegation for voicing their support for New York City ending solitary confinement. Since that torturous practice killed my brother Kalief eight and a half years ago, more and more people have been tortured and killed, and more and more families have had to suffer like mine. We look forward to the City Council enacting local legislation to forever end solitary once and for all.” Read the letter to Speaker Adrienne Adams in its entirety here. # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-goldman-calls-end-solitary-confinement-new-york-city-jails,Congressman Goldman Calls for End to Solitary Confinement in New York City Jails,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Read the Letter Here Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today joined Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and all other Democratic members of the New York City congressional delegation in a letter to City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, echoing their support to ban solitary confinement in New York City. The letter follows a report by the Correctional Association of New York from earlier this year, which cited the New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision’s overall lack of adherence and failure to implement New York state’s current statute, the HALT Solitary Confinement Act, which places limits and restrictions on the practice of solitary confinement in state prisons, prompting the need for additional action at the federal and local levels. ""Solitary confinement has been repeatedly proven to deteriorate the physical and mental wellbeing of inmates who are forced to endure it, especially those subjected to confinement for long periods of time,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. ""The damage inflicted by solitary confinement hinders formerly incarcerated individuals' ability to effectively rejoin society at the end of their sentence. As a member of the Congressional Second Chance Task Force, I know that by eliminating solitary confinement in New York City's jails, we will improve rates of rehabilitation and reduce recidivism in a fairer, more humane criminal justice system."" Congressman Adriano Espaillat said, “In New York City jails, as in jurisdictions across the nation, solitary confinement is known to impose severe suffering and deterioration on an individual’s mental and physical well-being. Solitary confinement causes heart disease, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and self-mutilation. Prolonged exposure is directly linked to grave outcomes, including death—a fact which New York City’s prisons are no stranger to. The continued use of solitary confinement makes our City’s jails less safe, especially for Black New Yorkers, who account for approximately 49% of the population in state prisons and 61% of those held in solitary confinement.” Congressman Dan Goldman is committed to improving outcomes for formerly incarcerated individuals and is a member of the Second Chance Task Force. In June, Goldman cosponsored the ‘Clean Slate Act’ to automatically seal federal arrest records for individuals not convicted and records for individuals convicted of low-level, nonviolent drug offenses as well as establishing new procedures to allow individuals to petition to seal records for other nonviolent offenses that are not automatically sealed. Read the full letter here or below: Dear City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams: We are grateful for your leadership on the number of issues facing individuals and families throughout our communities, including your engagement in criminal justice reforms and your efforts to end solitary confinement by the New York City Department of Corrections. As Members of New York City’s congressional delegation, we write today to express our strong support for swift action from the New York City Council, before the end of the Council’s current term, to end the use of solitary confinement in our City’s jails. It is our belief that the United States has a moral obligation to meet its foundational promise of guaranteed justice for all, including by ending the use of solitary confinement at all levels of government and by implementing safe and effective alternative strategies for confinement in its place. In New York City’s jails, as in jurisdictions across the nation, solitary confinement is known to impose severe suffering and deterioration on an individual’s mental and physical well-being. Solitary confinement causes heart disease, anxiety, depression, psychosis, and self-mutilation. Prolonged exposure is directly linked to grave outcomes, including death—a fact which New York City’s prisons are no stranger to. You know their cases and like us, you know their names – Erick Tavira, Layleen Polanco, Kalief Browder, Andy Henriquez, Bradley Ballard, Jason Echeverria, Brandon Rodriguez, and countless others have died because of solitary confinement in New York City’s jails. As a direct result, the continued use of solitary confinement makes our City’s jails less safe, especially for Black New Yorkers, who account for approximately 49% of the population in state prisons and 61% of those held in solitary confinement. Indeed, ending the torturous practice of solitary confinement need not be accompanied by any trade-offs in prison safety. Instead proven, results from alternate programs to solitary confinement—which utilize separation without isolation, in addition to out-of-cell congregate engagement and programming—have shown dramatic reductions in violence in both jails and outside communities, as well as reductions in instances of self-harm. Recent polling from Data for Progress also indicates that reforms to curtail or permanently end solitary confinement have broad public support. Thus, with both the public that we serve and the available science favoring the end of solitary confinement, we believe that now represents a unique moment in our history for all levels of government—federal, state, and local—to act together to end this harmful practice for good. Our Congressional delegation last wrote to the New York City Council about the need to end solitary confinement in December of 2021. In the time since considerable progress has been made to advance justice on this matter, as in March 2022, the state of New York began its implementation of the all-important HALT Solitary Confinement Act, which limits solitary confinement in New York State prisons to consecutive days or 20 days within a 60-day period. This important law also banned the use of the practice for people with mental illness and for other vulnerable groups. However, recent lawsuits allege that the New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) is still finding loopholes in order to avoid complying with HALT’s requirements, and a March 2023 comprehensive report by the Correctional Association of New York cited DOCCS’s overall lack of adherence and failure to implement HALT’s requirements as a major issue. In turn, New York City’s prisoners are likely to continue to be subject to the tortuous practice of solitary confinement without additional action at all levels of government. We strongly encourage the New York City Council to take advantage of its current historic opportunity and to act before the end of the Council’s current term to end the torturous and deadly practice of solitary confinement in our City. In doing so, New York City has the opportunity to serve as a model for the rest of the nation and to act on the side of justice. We appreciate your urgency on this critical matter, and we thank you for all of your work to help our City create a more equitable and just criminal justice system. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-joe-morelle-pays-tribute-major-select-terrell-k-brayman,CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE PAYS TRIBUTE TO MAJOR SELECT TERRELL K. BRAYMAN,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Joseph D. Morelle,M001206,morelle.house.gov,morelle,https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"December 13, 2023 (Washington, DC)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle delivered a “One Minute” Speech to the House of Representatives in honor of U.S. Air Force Major Select Terrell K. Brayman, an airman from Pittsford who lost his life last month in a training exercise off the coast of Japan. His remarks will appear in the Congressional Record, and the transcript is below. “It is with deep sorrow I rise to acknowledge the loss of U.S. Air Force Major Select Terrell K. Brayman of Pittsford, New York. On November 29th, Major Select Brayman, an Osprey pilot and Flight Commander, perished during a training exercise off the coast of Japan, along with seven of his fellow airmen. Major Select Brayman, who would have celebrated his 33rd birthday a week from today, grew up in Rochester and was described as hardworking and hilarious by those closest to him. Following his graduation from high school, he enrolled in Ohio State's ROTC program, successfully becoming an officer in the United States Air Force. He went on to serve with great distinction, demonstrating commitment to a cause greater than himself. For that, our community and nation will be forever grateful. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and all who knew him. I hope they take comfort in knowing Major Select Brayman's profound sense of duty, patriotism, and dedication to our country will forever remain his legacy. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield back my time.” Video footage is available and can be viewed here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-after-years-of-advocacy-announces-fort-drum-selected-for-prestigious-army-multi-domain-task-force-bringing-nearly-1500-new-personnel-to-the-north-country-and-helping-solidify-fort-drum-as-central-to-americas-national-defense-strategy,"SCHUMER, AFTER YEARS OF ADVOCACY, ANNOUNCES FORT DRUM SELECTED FOR PRESTIGIOUS ARMY MULTI-DOMAIN TASK FORCE BRINGING NEARLY 1,500 NEW PERSONNEL TO THE NORTH COUNTRY AND HELPING SOLIDIFY FORT DRUM AS...",2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Has Been Fighting Non-Stop To Elevate Fort Drum, Personally Calling Army Secretary Multiple Times, And Now His Efforts Have Proven Successful With The Selection Of Fort Drum To Support The Europe Multi-Domain Task Force Senator Says New Unit Will Bring Nearly 1,500 New Soldiers & Personnel, Advanced Capabilities, And The Future Of Army’s Europe Strategy To The North Country Base Schumer: Fort Drum Is Mission Ready, Best In The Country To Lead The Future Of The Army After years of relentless advocacy to elevate Fort Drum, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced that Fort Drum has been selected to house U.S. Army Multi-Domain Task Force (MDTF) #2, along with Wiesbaden, Germany. Multi Domain Task Forces are an essential part of the Army’s work to address the national security threats of the future, the senator personally met with Army Secretary Christine E. Wormuth today who informed him of the news. Schumer explained this prestigious designation he helped land for Fort Drum will make it a central part of the Army’s mission to combat emerging national security threats and is expected to bring 1,495 new personnel and soldiers to the North Country, and further support the long-term stability of the base and its central role in our national defense. “Fort Drum has been selected for one of the most prestigious designations by the Army, meaning nearly 1,500 new soldiers and personnel will soon call the North Country home, which will enhance this amazing base as a pillar within America’s national defense strategy. I personally advocated to Army Secretary Wormuth to elevate Fort Drum as the clear choice, and the Army could not have picked a better place than the North Country to lead the mission in protecting our national security,” said Senator Schumer. “Fort Drum is woven into the very fabric of the North Country, and there is no community more eager and able to support the Army in furthering America’s national defense strategy. The Army’s Multi-Domain Task Force represents the future of our military, and today the Army has said that the future of our military will be from Fort Drum.” Schumer explained that the MDTF program represents the future of the Army’s efforts to combat the threat to U.S. national security. The Army has planned to build five MDTFs to support the various combatant commands, with three units focused on the Pacific and one unit focused on Europe and one for global response. Fort Drum will share the MDTF supporting General Cavoli and the entire European Command (EUCOM) with the Army’s base in Wiesbaden, Germany. MDTF soldiers will likely rotate between Wiesbaden and Fort Drum, starting in 2025. This new effort combines land, air, sea, cyber, and space capabilities into one unit that supports combatant commanders (i.e. joint forces) and is essential to building joint readiness while strengthening our interoperability with key allies and partners. The second MDTF was activated in 2021 in Wiesbaden but thanks to Senator Schumer will now share its home with Fort Drum. Schumer has routinely highlighted how Fort Drum is uniquely suited to lead the Army’s new efforts facing the U.S. Central and European Command. The base is host to the Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield, which serves as the primary departure airfield for the 10th Mountain Division and provides support to military forces at Fort Drum training for international contingency operations. Fort Drum already has approximately 500 soldiers deployed in support of European allies and partners, and has a long history of conducting critical joint exercise with allies like Finland. The terrain of the North County is an ideal environment to train soldiers on the skills required to face the harsh winters of Europe. Schumer has fought relentlessly to elevate Fort Drum and the North Country to the Army. When the Army first announced the consideration of Fort Drum for the MDTF, the senator sent a letter to the Army supporting Fort Drum’s candidacy, he then followed up those efforts personally calling the Army Secretary twice to highlight his support and announced that Fort Drum was a finalist for MDTF selection in March of this year. Schumer has worked for years to deliver major federal investment to enhance the bases capabilities for new opportunities like an MDTF unit. Schumer fought for years, personally calling the former Army Secretary, Defense Secretary and Army Chief Of Staff to deliver over $27 million in federal funding to construct a new railhead at Fort Drum, a top priority for the base. The senator also delivered over $21 million for a new Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Hangar at Fort Drum, and he secured $27 million for Fort Drum in the FY22 omnibus to replace the base’s existing water supply that was vulnerable to multiple forms of contamination, requiring Fort Drum to purchase half of its water supply from a municipal source. Most recently, Schumer secured nearly $10 million for two major Fort Drum projects in the end-of-year spending package for FY2023. Today’s major announcement by the senator will help ensure the long-term stability and vitality of Fort Drum for years to come bringing new soldiers, personnel, and infrastructure to ensure Fort Drum continues to grow in the North Country and as a part of the Army’s mission. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://clarke.house.gov/clarke-urges-biden-administration-to-reject-trump-era-immigration-policies-within-supplemental-aid-package/,CLARKE URGES BIDEN ADMINISTRATION TO REJECT TRUMP-ERA IMMIGRATION POLICIES WITHIN SUPPLEMENTAL AID PACKAGE,2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 12, 2023 MEDIA CONTACT: e: brian.phillips@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), First Vice-Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, released the following statement urging President Biden and his Administration to oppose any Trump-era immigration policies under consideration in supplemental aid package negotiations. “For their implicit inhumanity and ineffectiveness, I’ve long maintained that Trump-era policies have no place in our national immigration strategy moving forward. As Congressional Republicans, once again, hold Congress for ransom to force through their cruel, callous, and deeply unpopular policy demands, I urge President Biden to refuse to bow to their ultimatums. “Our immigration system is in desperate need of comprehensive reform,centered around humanity and dignity for all l migrants and asylum seekers. From the GOP’s bad-faith proposal, there is no debate that our colleagues across the aisle are far more interested in making our immigration system worse. Republicans’ efforts to skirt our obligations to those requesting asylum, refugees, and all others seeking safe haven from political persecution and violence cannot be ignored. And their actions must be unequivocally rejected by the Biden-Harris Administration. “The immigration policies of the United States must respect international law and preserve the dignity of migrant families. Our nation was founded on these principles, and we must continue to adhere to them.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4041,Tonko Cheers $2 Million in New Amtrak Investments,2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"ALBANY, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) today cheered the announcement of four grant awards totaling $2 million in federal funding to improve and expand Amtrak service in New York’s 20th congressional district and throughout the Northeastern United States. These grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) will provide funding for multiple state transportation agencies to begin work on new and improved rail corridors that will enhance reliability, improve safety, and reduce travel times for passengers across the region. In March, Congressman Tonko submitted a letter in support of the New York State Department of Transportation’s request for $1 million in funding for these vital projects. “As a lifelong Amtrak passenger, I know firsthand how crucial our public rail system is to improving the everyday lives of New Yorkers,” Congressman Tonko said. “That’s why throughout my career, I’ve worked tirelessly alongside my Democratic colleagues to expand and upgrade our nation’s passenger rail networks. Now, I’m thrilled to celebrate this critical infusion of funding that will enhance the safety, reliability, and speed of intercity rail service in our Capital Region and beyond. At a time when Republicans are proposing devastating cuts to Amtrak, including a 92 percent reduction in funding for the Northeast Corridor, grants like these have never been more essential. Going forward, I’ll continue pushing for more investments that address our infrastructure needs, support our communities, and deliver for American families.” The grant awards announced last week include: $500,000 to the New York State Department of Transportation for the Empire Corridor project, to provide improvements to the existing Amtrak Empire Service between New York City and Niagara Falls via Albany, Utica, Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo by adding frequencies, reducing travel time, and improving reliability; $500,000 to the New York State Department of Transportation for the Adirondack Corridor project, to provide improvements to the existing Amtrak Adirondack service between New York City and Montreal by completing a U.S. Customs Pre-Clearance Facility in Montreal, adding a second daily round-trip, and making track and infrastructure improvements to increase reliability, reduce trip times, increase safety, and achieve a state of good repair; $500,000 to the Vermont Agency of Transportation for the Green Mountain Corridor project, to connect New York City with Burlington, Vermont via Albany and Rutland, Vermont, dovetailing with the existing Amtrak Ethan Allen Express by providing new service to communities in Southwestern Vermont (including Bennington and Manchester) and east-central New York State (Mechanicville); $500,000 to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation for the Boston and Albany Corridor project, to connect Boston and Albany via Springfield, Massachusetts. The proposed corridor would provide up to eight daily round-trip passenger trains on an existing alignment that is currently being used by Amtrak’s long-distance Lake Shore Limited. You can read Congressman Tonko’s full letter of support HERE. For more information about these projects, click HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-deliver-nearly-18-million-for-safer-streets-across-upstate-nythrough-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-and-jobs-lawto-improve-local-roadways-pilot-new-traffic-upgrades-and-strengthen-pedestrian-safety,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND DELIVER NEARLY $18 MILLION FOR SAFER STREETS ACROSS UPSTATE NY–THROUGH THE BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE & JOBS LAW–TO IMPROVE LOCAL ROADWAYS, PILOT NEW TRAFFIC UPGRADES, AND...",2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"New Grants Will Help NY Communities Develop Safety Action Plans And Boost Road Safety Features In The Capital Region, Rochester-Finger Lakes, And Across Upstate NY Senators Say Fed $$$ Through “Safe Streets and Roads for All” Program, Created In The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, To Help Communities Save Lives With Separated Bicycle Lanes, Curb Extensions, And More Schumer, Gillibrand: Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Is Driving Road Improvements And Paving The Way For Better Safety On Streets Across Upstate NY! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $17,951,433 from the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law in Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grants for communities across Upstate New York to improve road safety. Schumer and Gillibrand said this funding will help develop and implement safety action plans for communities across New York, inform improvements along roadways, use “quick-build” strategies to test out safety features, such as separated bicycle lanes or curb extensions at intersections, to help enact new safety features on streets. ""From new improved bike and bus lanes to safer intersections and sidewalks, this over $17.9 million investment from our Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs law will help give communities from Rochester to Albany the tools they need to develop plans for safer streets while creating jobs. These federal funds will empower localities to enhance roadway safety, develop comprehensive safety action plans, and implement innovative strategies to protect pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike,” said Senator Schumer. “These grants will help improve the safety of our roadways, boost the economy and help save lives by driving forward much needed safety features, stopping accidents before they happen, and laying the foundation for safer streets.” “Investing in projects that improve roadway safety is vital to preventing future traffic tragedies in our communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These grants will allow communities across Upstate New York to develop and implement critical safety plans to address roadway safety issues. I am proud to have worked to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to secure this funding and I will keep fighting to make our roadways safer for all.” The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Schumer led to passage as Majority Leader, established the SS4A discretionary program with $5 billion in appropriated funds over 5 years, 2022-2026. The SS4A program funds regional, local, and Tribal initiatives through grants to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law more than doubled funding for surface transportation programs that improve roadway safety. A full list of award recipients across Upstate New York can be found below: ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://clarke.house.gov/clarke-pressley-urge-state-dept-to-end-support-for-armed-foreign-intervention-in-haiti-support-democratic-transition/,"CLARKE, PRESSLEY URGE STATE DEPT. TO END SUPPORT FOR ARMED FOREIGN INTERVENTION IN HAITI, SUPPORT DEMOCRATIC TRANSITION",2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 11, 2023 MEDIA CONTACT: e: brian.phillips@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 Washington, D.C. — Today, ahead of the 220th Anniversary of Haitian Independence Day, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Co-Chairs of the House Haiti Caucus, urged the U.S. Department of State to withdraw U.S. support for an armed foreign intervention in Haiti and encourage negotiations for a Haitian-led democratic political transition. The United Nations recently approved a U.S-drafted resolution supporting a Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) in Haiti. In their letter, the lawmakers expressed concern that a foreign military intervention further risks destabilizing the country, endangering more innocent people, and entrenching the current illegitimate regime. “We are gravely concerned that an armed foreign intervention will only serve as a tool to buttress an illegitimate leader and undermine efforts by a representative transitional government to define the actual support desired from the international community.,” the lawmakers wrote. “The State Department should not override the will of the Haitian people – it is clear that a transitional government is the only viable path forward for Haiti to return to stability and democracy.” To further save the lives of Haitians and reduce violence on the island, the lawmakers urged the Administration to swiftly block arms shipments to Haiti and hold weapons traffickers and gang financiers accountable for their actions. “Countering this continued gun trafficking to Haiti is a critical step to the security and stability of the country. We urge you to work with the relevant government agencies, including the Department of Justice, to take the steps necessary to put a robust anti-arms trafficking to Haiti strategy in place,” the lawmakers continued. “Rather than hastily address this situation by supporting an armed foreign intervention – a strategy that has been tried and failed several times in Haiti – we urge you to take a holistic approach.” In addition to Rep. Clarke, the letter was signed by Representatives Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Barabara Lee (CA-12), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), and James P. McGovern (MA-02). A copy of the letter can be found here. As a founding co-chair of the House Haiti Caucus, Rep. Clarke has consistently supported a compassionate, humanitarian response to the overlapping crises in Haiti that centers Haitian civil society. In July 2021, Rep. Clarke, along with Reps. Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Andy Levin (MI-09) and Val Demings (FL-10) issued a statement condemning the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse and calling for an independent investigation into the criminal act. In August 2022, Rep. Clarke, along with Reps. Val Demings (FL-10), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), called on President Biden to appoint a new Special Envoy to Haiti, a position that has remained unfilled since September 2021. In January 2022, Caucus Co-Chairs Clarke, Demings, Levin, and Pressley released a statement following the 12 year anniversary of the catastrophic 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Haiti and devastated its civilian population. In September 2022, Rep. Clarke and Rep. Ritchie Torres (NY-15) introduced a resolution calling for the acknowledgement of Haiti as the first free Black nation in the Americas, and how its longstanding “double debt” continues to damage the freedom and prosperity of the nation. Rep. Clarke has consistently called on the Department of Homeland Security to end the practice of expelling migrants under Title 42 and to employ alternative forms of humanitarian relief for detainees subject to deportation for the remainder of the pandemic. In August 2023, Rep. Clarke urged a Texas federal judge to preserve the humanitarian parole program responsible for saving the lives of countless migrant families from Haiti and other distressed nations. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-leaders-re-launch-%E2%80%98public-school-caucus%E2%80%99-highlight-best-practices,BIPARTISAN LEADERS RE-LAUNCH ‘PUBLIC SCHOOL CAUCUS’ TO HIGHLIGHT BEST PRACTICES BENEFITING CHILDREN IN AMERICA’S PUBLIC SCHOOLS,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), and twelve of their colleagues re-launched the Public School Caucus, a bipartisan congressional caucus aimed at elevating practices in public school settings to better serve children across the country. Caucus Co-Chair Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), a passionate STEM advocate, said, “STEM is the future, and it’s critical that all children, especially those in underserved communities, have access to the best our country has to offer. Working together across party lines, the Public Schools Caucus aims to ensure our hard-working and dedicated teachers can share invaluable insight on educational success to ensure today’s youth are best preparation for the careers of the future.” “From reading comprehension to mathematics, education is vital for children to learn the necessary skills to grow and become productive members of society,” said Caucus Co-chair Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA). “However, it is increasingly apparent that every child does not have the same educational needs. That is why I am proud to join Rep. Adriano Espaillat in launching the Public Schools Caucus, a caucus dedicated to advocating for children, parents, educators, administrators, and policymakers to ensure that every child, no matter the zip code, socioeconomic status, or background, has the opportunity to succeed. I look forward to working together and creating an educational landscape that upholds high academic standards and produces the best outcomes for our kids.” Looking at what works best in both public district and public charter schools, the Caucus aims to draw attention to successful elements in America’s classrooms to help educators continually improve access, quality, opportunity, and outcomes for the next generation of leaders. The Caucus will host a series of three events this Congress, showcasing the leading public school education practices across the country. The first event, scheduled for tomorrow, December 12th, at 9AM on Capitol Hill will focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programming. Hosted by Congressman Mike Gallagher (R-WI), Congressman Ritchie Torres (D-NY), and Congressman Brandon Williams (R-NY), the event will focus on Achieving STEM Excellence in Public Education and feature a discussion about the importance of STEM excellence in K-12 classrooms. Education expert and President of the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, Michael Petrilli, will lead the discussion alongside Success Academy Charter Schools CEO, Eva Moskowitz, Department of Defense Education Activity Director, Thomas Brady, and East Syracuse Minoa (New York) Central School Superintendent, Donna DeSiato. In addition to the co-chairs, the initial members of the Public Schools Caucus include an equal number of Republicans and Democrats: Reps. Julia Brownley (D-CA), David Trone (D-MD), Lisa McClain (R-MI), Chris Pappas (D-NH), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Melanie Stansbury (D-NM), Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), Brandon Williams (R-NY), and Burgess Owens (R-UT). # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-pushes-revitalize-americas-public-schools-green-new,Congressman Dan Goldman Pushes to Revitalize America’s Public Schools With ‘Green New Deal for Public Schools’,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"‘Green New Deal for Public Schools’ Would Transform Public School Infrastructure with Clean Energy Upgrades, Invest in Educators, Advance Equity Curriculums Read the Bill Here Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) and Congressman Jamaal Bowman (NY-16) in introducing the ‘Green New Deal for Public Schools.’ This landmark legislation would invest $1.6 trillion in our public education system over 10 years to improve clean energy infrastructure, invest in schools serving low-income students, and provide schools with the resources to hire hundreds of thousands of needed educators, paraprofessionals, and staff, including counselors, to support student mental health. “The American public education system is a promise we as a country have made to students, families, and communities across the country – the promise that they will have a safe, welcoming place to learn, to thrive, and to improve their station in life,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “When school buildings are falling into disrepair, teachers aren’t receiving the support they need, and the climate crisis threatens students’ ability to learn, we are failing our children. This historic investment is an opportunity to provide American students with all the tools they need for success.” The ‘Green New Deal for Public Schools’ would: Create an Office of Sustainable Schools within the U.S. Department of Education to administer new grant programs in collaboration with the Department of Energy Provide $446 billion in Climate Capital Facilities Grants and $40 billion for a Climate Change Resiliency Program to upgrade every public school building in the country – starting with the highest-need districts – to create safe, healthy, zero-carbon, and accessible learning environments for students and staff Invest $250 billion in Resource Block Grants for schools to – Drastically reduce student-to-staff ratios, equipping schools to approach target ratios of 12:1 forgrades K-8 and 15:1 for grades 9-12 Strengthen and diversify the educator pipeline Better integrate local knowledge & community relationships in high-need schools Develop and implement initiatives to support high quality teaching and learning, extracurricular and co-curricular activities, violence prevention, student mental health, and positive school climates. Create an Educational Equity Planning Grants Pilot Program funded at $100 million to address historic school funding inequities within regions Increase funding for Title I Part A and the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) Part B by $850 billion over ten years, including – Quadrupling current funding for Title I Part A to reach $74 billion annually to support schools and districts with students living in poverty Tripling current funding for IDEA Part B to reach $44 billion annually to support students with disabilities Investing $1.6 trillion over ten years in the U.S. education system would create 1.3 million jobs annually and eliminate 78 million metric tons of carbon emissions, which is equal to taking 17 million cars off the road. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-joe-morelle-and-grace-meng-introduce-legislation-increase,REPRESENTATIVES JOE MORELLE AND GRACE MENG INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO INCREASE ACCESS TO CRITICAL FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Joseph D. Morelle,M001206,morelle.house.gov,morelle,https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC) - Today, Congressman Joe Morelle (D-NY) and Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-NY) announced introduction of the Hunger Clearinghouse Enhancement Act of 2023 to reduce food insecurity for families across the nation. The legislation would increase funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Hunger Clearinghouse Hotline to improve access to food assistance, nutrition, and social services information for families in need. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) has introduced the Senate companion bill. ""More than 44 million people will experience hunger this year due to limited access to food assistance—including 7.3 million children,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “We have a moral obligation to address these staggering statistics and ensure no family goes without a warm meal. This legislation will better connect people to the resources they need, reduce food insecurity, and uplift families in crisis. I’m grateful to Senator Gillibrand and Congresswoman Meng for their support and look forward to our continued work together creating solutions to the hunger crisis.” ""Fighting food insecurity has long been a focus of mine in Congress. Millions of people in New York and throughout the nation experience hunger each year, and as the world’s richest nation, there is no reason that needs to be the case,” said Congresswoman Grace Meng. “That is why introducing legislation like the Hunger Clearinghouse Enhancement Act will increase the amount of money this program can use to address hunger prevention and education. I thank Congressman Morelle and Senator Gillibrand for sharing my passion for combatting the hunger crisis.” Over 49 million people turned to food programs last year. The Hunger Clearinghouse Enhancement Act will increase funding levels from $250,000 to $750,000 and better assist families navigating their options. Representatives Morelle and Meng introduced this legislation to enhance hunger prevention education and highlight the critical need to connect struggling families with healthy food options. The Hunger Clearinghouse is accessible two ways: By Phone: Call the USDA National Hunger Hotline, which operates from 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Eastern Time. If you need food assistance, call 1-866-3-HUNGRY or 1-877-8-HAMBRE to speak with a representative who will find food resources such as meal sites, food banks, and other social services available near your location. By Text: Text to the automated service at 914-342-7744. with a question that may contain a keyword such as “food,"" “summer,” “meals,” etc. to receive an automated response to resources located near an address and/or zip code. For information on USDA’s Hunger Clearinghouse, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/velazquez-reintroduces-bill-fund-education-initiatives-combat-hate,Velázquez Reintroduces Bill to Fund Education Initiatives to Combat Hate Crimes,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Nydia M. Velázquez,V000081,velazquez.house.gov,velazquez,https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) reintroduced the Education Against Hate Crimes Act. The bill will direct federal resources towards educating youth to better equip the next generation of leaders with the tools needed to confront and counteract prejudice effectively. “Any attack, whether verbal or physical that is motivated by hate and intolerance is anti-American,"" said Congresswoman Velázquez. “I’m proud to reintroduce this legislation, which will put more weight from the federal government behind fighting these crimes. By educating our communities youth on the ways to prevent and combat hate crimes from a young age, we can inspire change for the future.” In recent years, our nation has grappled with a rapid rise in hate crimes, exacerbated by ongoing international conflicts and global events. In the past month alone, antisemitic incidents have seen a staggering 388% increase, as per preliminary reports. Simultaneously, the Council on American Relations (CAIR) reported 1,238 incidents of anti-Arab and anti-Muslim bias in recent weeks. Disturbingly, anti-Asian hate crimes escalated by nearly 150 percent in 2020 during the Coronavirus pandemic. The Education Against Hate Crimes Act proposes the following measures: Federal grants would be extended to state and local educational agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations, enabling them to implement hate crime prevention and prejudice reduction education programs for secondary and middle school students. Priority in federal funding would be accorded to regions witnessing a disproportionate surge in hate crimes. This bill is also cosponsored by Reps. Elanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Nikema Williams (D-GA)and Adriano Espaillat (D-NY). For a copy of the bill, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-applauds-major-10-billion-partnership_spurred-by-his-chips-and-science-act--with-governor-hochul--semiconductor-industry-leaders-to-bring-new-major-expansion-to-the-albany-nanotech-complex-with-nations-most-advanced-rd-technology-with-new-funding-senator-doubles-down-to-get-feds-to-designate-national-semiconductor-technology-center-in-the-capital-region,SCHUMER APPLAUDS MAJOR $10 BILLION PARTNERSHIP – SPURRED BY HIS CHIPS & SCIENCE ACT – WITH GOVERNOR HOCHUL & SEMICONDUCTOR INDUSTRY LEADERS TO BRING NEW MAJOR EXPANSION TO THE ALBANY NANOTECH COMPLEX...,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Says New Public-Private Partnership, Spurred From Demand By His CHIPS & Science Law, Further Positions The Capital Region As The Ideal Leading Hub For The National Semiconductor Technology Center And Schumer Is Going All Out To Land This Major Fed Investment Now That We Have Entered The Homestretch The Albany NanoTech Campus Will Become North America’s First and Only High NA Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography Public-Private Center – Creating At Least 700 Direct Jobs, Hundreds Of Union Construction Jobs, Bolstering Workforce Training, And Bringing Some Of World’s Most Advanced Machinery To The Capital Region Schumer: Capital Region Has Landed a $10 Billion Rocket-Chip To Further Upstate NY As The Global Center Of Semiconductor Research Building on years of advocacy to elevate Upstate NY and Albany NanoTech as a global center for semiconductor research and manufacturing, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced, alongside Governor Hochul, a $10 billion public-private partnership with leaders from the semiconductor industry including IBM, Micron, and others to bring a major new expansion with investment in the world’s most cutting-edge semiconductor machinery to the University at Albany’s NanoTech Complex. Schumer said that the partnership will further propel Albany NanoTech as the premier global center for semiconductor research, and now as we enter the homestretch he is going all out to land the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) that was established in his CHIPS & Science Act in the Capital Region. “This is a landmark day for the Capital Region. With this groundbreaking $10 billion public-private partnership, spurred by my CHIPS and Science Act, industry has made it clear: the Albany NanoTech Complex is home to America’s semiconductor R&D future. This historic partnership will bring the most cutting-edge machinery in the world to Upstate NY, helping make discoveries that engineers today cannot even fathom – ensuring the U.S. leads the world in semiconductor innovation and manufacturing and bringing us closer to turning science fiction into reality by producing microchips smaller than a nanometer, right here in the Capital Region,” said Senator Schumer. “Now as we enter the homestretch for the ultimate prize of landing the National Semiconductor Technology Center here in the Capital Region, this funding will lay the foundation to make it happen and I am going all out to bring home these major federal dollars to New York.” Schumer added, “This $10 billion means hundreds of new high-paying tech and construction jobs, along with scientists and leading companies from around the world turning to the Capital Region as the place where they conduct their research. I wrote the CHIPS & Science Act because I knew it would be transformative for Upstate New York, which was perfectly suited to bring this industry that is vital to America’s national security and economic future back from overseas. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York has not only answered the call put out by the feds, but helped create a national model with unprecedented investment in every corner of Upstate NY and today’s announcement is just the latest example of how New York is leading our nation in developing the next generation of technology.” New York State is investing $1 billion to expand the Albany NanoTech Complex, leveraging at least $9 billion in private spending and investment, spurred by the increase investment in semiconductor innovation and manufacturing from Schumer’s CHIPS & Science Law. Specifically, NY CREATES plans to use this major investment by New York State to acquire and install a High NA EUV lithography machine, the most advanced semiconductor equipment ever made, designed and manufactured by ASML, at its Albany NanoTech Complex. This will give industry partners including Micron, IBM, Applied Materials, Tokyo Electron, and other key companies access to ASML’s EXE:5200 High NA EUV scanner and other highly sophisticated equipment vital to making breakthrough discoveries in semiconductor research and development. In addition, state funding will boost the construction of NanoFab Reflection space, a new, highly sophisticated building with more than 50,000 square feet of cleanroom space. According to New York State, the project is expected to create at least 700 new direct jobs, support thousands of jobs already at the facility, and hundreds of construction jobs throughout the major expansion. Once built, New York’s High NA EUV Center will position the Capital Region as a one of the most advanced semiconductor research and development facilities in the world, helping attract scientists from around the globe, leading companies in the industry, and international partnerships to establish and expand their presence at Albany NanoTech. Schumer said that this major public-private partnership further strengthens Albany NanoTech as the ideal major hub for the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) that was established in the CHIPS and Science Act. The site and its partners have a long record of accomplishment of groundbreaking research, that will only be supercharged by this addition of the new High NA EUV Center, that will make the Capital Region as the only place in North America and one of only two public institutions in the world to host this new advanced technology needed make the next generation of microchips. Two years ago, IBM announced the successful development of the world’s first 2 nanometer (nm) microchip – with the R&D work done at the Albany NanoTech Complex, the same site that produced the world’s first 7nm and 5nm chips, and the new technology acquired in today’s multibillion dollar investment will help continue this record of success. Last month, the Department of Commerce announced it has reached an initial agreement with a new nonprofit organization called SemiUS, the expected operator for the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC). This follows the Department’s recent announcement that an independent committee selected the inaugural Board of Trustees of this new nonprofit organization. Early planned activities at SemiUS will include hiring a Chief Executive Officer and an executive team, establishing a membership structure for the consortium, and developing a timeline for the sequencing of program activities, which are expected to commence in 2024, including the first announcements of major funding awards to leading hubs of the NSTC. Schumer has fought tirelessly to lift up the Capital Region and Upstate New York as a major hub to lead the nation in semiconductor manufacturing and research. Most recently, Schumer, in a personal meeting in Seoul with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, secured a commitment that the Republic of Korea will partner with NY CREATES on advanced semiconductor technology research & development at the Albany NanoTech Complex. This past September, Schumer announced that following his push, NORDTECH, a New York-based consortium led by NY CREATES in partnership with Cornell, RPI, the University at Albany CNSE, and IBM, was one of the first major recipients of funding through his CHIPS & Science Act, securing $40 million through the Department of Defense’s (DoD) Microelectronic Commons Program. Earlier this year, Schumer also personally invited NY CREATES head Dave Anderson to President Biden’s 2023 State of the Union address to highlight his push to land the NSTC in the Capital Region. Prior to the passage of the CHIPS & Science Act, Schumer not only brought the Commerce Secretary to Malta to highlight opportunities for expansion at GlobalFoundries and across Upstate New York’s semiconductor industry, but also arranged for Secretary Raimondo to meet with NY CREATES and industry leaders, including from IBM and Applied Materials, to discuss the unique assets the region has for leading the NSTC. Schumer also brought Commerce Deputy Secretary Don Graves to Albany to tour the Albany NanoTech Complex and see firsthand how the Capital Region is perfectly suited to stand up the NSTC and begin boosting the nation’s semiconductor industry. Additionally, after years of relentless advocacy, Schumer secured in October the prestigious federal Tech Hub designation for the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region, putting Upstate NY further on the road to becoming America’s semiconductor superhighway. Schumer pulled out all the stops to bolster the tri-city region to beat out hundreds of other applications in the nationwide competition. The proposal called the “NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub” will build on the historic investments Schumer delivered that have spurred a boom in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation across Upstate NY and with today’s designation, will now be in an exclusive group of only 31 regions in America to compete for potentially billions in federal funding to transform Upstate NY as a global hub for workforce training, innovation, and manufacturing of semiconductor technology, complimenting efforts to make Albany a major hub for the NSTC. Thanks to Schumer’s CHIPS and Science Act, Upstate New York has seen a major revival in tech manufacturing. Micron has announced an historic $100 billion investment to build a cutting-edge memory fab in Central New York, GlobalFoundries is considering an expansion in the Capital Region, and Wolfspeed recently opened the first, largest, and only 200mm silicon carbide fabrication facility in the world in the Mohawk Valley. Menlo Micro, who also does research out of Albany Nanotech, recently announced an over $50 million investment to build their first domestic microelectronics fab facility in Tompkins County, creating over 100 new good-paying jobs. In addition, Upstate New York also is home to suppliers like Corning Incorporated, which manufacturers glass critical to the microchip industry at its Canton and Fairport, NY plants, and Edwards Vacuum, recently announced a $300+ million investment to build a dry pump manufacturing facility to support the chip industry in the Western New York. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-ryan-call-on-the-department-of-defense-to-expedite-clean-up-at-stewart-air-national-guard-base-push-for-new-measures-to-mitigate-pfas-contamination_doubling-down-on-years-long-push-to-clean-up-pollution-in-newburgh-and-new-windsor,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, RYAN CALL ON THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TO EXPEDITE CLEAN-UP AT STEWART AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, PUSH FOR NEW MEASURES TO MITIGATE PFAS CONTAMINATION – DOUBLING DOWN ON YEARS-LONG...",2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Has Led Charge For Years To Clean Up Stewart ANGB, Where Toxic PFAS Pollution Forced Municipalities Serving Tens Of Thousands Of Newburgh And New Windsor Families To Tap Different Sources For Reliable Access To Safe, Clean Drinking Water Working Alongside Riverkeeper, Reps, In New Letter To DoD Push To Advance The Much Needed Clean Up Of PFAS Schumer, Gillibrand, Ryan: Cleaning Up PFAS At Stewart Air National Guard Base Needs To Be A Top Priority For The DoD Doubling down on years of advocacy to address PFAS pollution in Newburgh and New Windsor, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Representative Pat Ryan today launched a new push to get the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to expedite the environmental remediation and full cleanup of toxic PFAS at Stewart Air National Guard Base (Stewart ANGB). The lawmakers, alongside Riverkeeper and local organizations, are pushing the DoD to prioritize the cleanup at Stewart and explore new measures to stop the ongoing pollution of downstream waters by PFAS from the base – while DOD works to fully implement a comprehensive clean-up plan as part of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) process. ""Our call to the Department of Defense is clear: expedite the PFAS cleanup and implement new measures to help protect our waterways from the ongoing threat of this pollution spreading,” said Senator Schumer. “From day one, I’ve pushed DoD’s top brass to clean up the Air National Guard’s mess at Stewart and we need more meaningful action to restore health, safety, and peace of mind to nearby Orange County residents in Newburgh and New Windsor. I want to thank the Riverkeeper and my federal partners, Sen. Gillibrand and Rep. Ryan for their commitment to the restoration and protection of our waters in the Hudson Valley and beyond, and I promise to keep fighting to protect the public health and our environment from PFAS pollution.” “The residents of Newburgh, New Windsor, and surrounding Orange County communities deserve to have access to clean waterways, free of the toxic PFAS pollution originating from Stewart ANGB,” said Senator Gillibrand. “For years, I’ve fought alongside the residents of the impacted Orange County communities to ensure there is accountability in the remediation of PFAS at Stewart ANGB, but there is still work to be done. Now, alongside Sen. Schumer, Rep. Ryan and Riverkeeper, we are calling on DoD to expedite cleanup efforts and implement measures to mitigate contamination and protect the health of nearby residents. I will continue to fight to make sure that all New Yorkers have access to clean, safe drinking water.” “PFAS contamination is a grave threat to the health of our service members, our drinking water supply, and the entire Hudson Valley. Alongside the people of Newburgh and New Windsor, I’m calling on the Department of Defense to expedite the removal of these toxic chemicals immediately,” said Congressman Ryan. “I’m proud to work with Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, as well as Riverkeeper to make our community more safe. We can’t wait for DoD bureaucracy to eliminate PFAS contamination at Stewart, we need action now.” A copy of the Representatives’ letter to National Guard Bureau can be found here. Schumer, Gillibrand, and Ryan are working alongside Riverkeeper to urge the DoD to implement two steps recommended by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and New York State Department of Health (NYS DOH) to address the ongoing PFAS contamination in Newburgh and New Windsor. First, the Reps said the DoD should consider increasing the capacity of the Interim Storm Water Treatment System, which has the potential to reduce the number of weather-related bypasses, mitigating further PFAS contamination in the area. Second, the Reps said the DoD should evaluate slip-lining the stormwater pipes, which could both prevent PFAS contaminated groundwater from entering stormwater pipes and reduce the overall volume of water treated by the stormwater treatment system. The Reps said they are urging the DoD to work expeditiously and thoroughly to evaluate both these potential interim measures, while pushing for DOD to continue working at full speed on cleaning up the PFAS through the CERCLA process as this is the best way to truly ensure the people of Newburgh and the surrounding communities—including military personnel and their families—can recover. Since the City of Newburgh and Town of New Windsor drinking water sources were affected by PFAS contamination, temporary measures have been put in place: Both communities have relied primarily on drinking water from New York City’s reservoir system. New York State has also installed filters to remove regulated PFAS chemicals at both public treatment plants and private wells in the region. Cleaning up the source of the pollution remains essential to any long-term solution. “Riverkeeper and our partners in Newburgh want to see the source of pollution eliminated, so local drinking water supplies can be fully restored,” said Dan Shapley, Riverkeeper’s Senior Director of Advocacy, Policy and Planning. “Riverkeeper is grateful to Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressional Representative Pat Ryan for supporting the call to ‘Speed Up the Cleanup’ of toxic PFAS chemicals at Stewart Air National Guard Base. Our thanks to New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as well for starting the process to update key permits."" “I wholeheartedly supports the accelerated efforts to address PFAS contamination, as championed by Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, Congressman Ryan, and echoed by vital community advocates like Riverkeeper, Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, and the Newburgh Clean Water Project,” said Edward Lawson, Community Co-Chair of Stewart Air National Guard Base’s Restoration Advisory Board. “Understanding the profound impact this has had on Newburgh and New Windsor, we are deeply committed to a swift and comprehensive cleanup. The urgency of these groups in advocating for environmental health strengthens our resolve. We aim to implement robust and effective solutions, ensuring the restoration of safe and clean water resources for our communities and regaining their trust through our dedicated efforts."" “Members of the SANG Restoration Advisory Board have been urging the site managers overseeing the cleanup at Stewart Air National Guard Base to initiate several recommended interim measures with little response and even a lesser sense of urgency,” said Jennifer Rawlison, Newburgh Clean Water Project Steering Member and RAB member. “We thank Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer, and Representative Pat Ryan for their signing on in support of the “Speed Up the Clean Up” campaign to hold accountable the DoD in seeking timely and effective measures to reduce ongoing contaminated PFAS discharges and further protect the health and wellbeing of Newburgh & New Windsor families and our environment.” “It’s been 7 years since PFAS contamination from Stewart Air National Guard Base was running off into the City of Newburgh’s drinking water supply. It’s more than time for PFAS discharges from the base to be stopped for good,” said Jen Benson, Environmental Action Director for Hudson River Sloop Clearwater. “Clearwater values Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressional Representative Pat Ryan joining the call for an expedited cleanup of toxic PFAS chemicals at the Stewart Air National Guard Base.” Over the past several years, Senator Schumer has fought relentlessly to advance PFAS cleanup activities at Stewart ANGB. In May 2017, during a one-on-one meeting with then-Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson, Schumer called on the Air Force to pledge that they would prioritize the prompt remediation of the PFAS contamination at Stewart ANGB. In a June 2017 meeting with then-Secretary of Defense James Mattis, Schumer called on the DoD to participate in the remediation of toxic PFAS contamination. Just a few months later, DoD immediately began their Site Investigation sampling, including Recreation Pond, which yielded the highest concentration of PFOS according to the NYS DEC’s original testing. In July of 2018, after Schumer’s push, a report concerning the health effects of PFAS was finally released to the public, after the release was seemingly delayed because of political considerations. In the fall of 2018, Schumer met with then-Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson to urge the Air Force to rev up the pace of PFAS contamination investigations efforts. Schumer also successfully worked to include his amendment to provide funding for the Air National Guard to reimburse local New York water authorities for their ongoing remediation efforts and cleanup of PFAS in the Fiscal Year 2019 Senate Defense Appropriations bill. In 2019, after the delegation secured over $2.4 million for the project, the USAF finally installed an interim filtration device on Recreation Pond, marking the first concrete step in stopping the PFAS from flowing off base and restoring safe, clean drinking water for residents. In February 2021, Schumer brought the community’s concerns directly to then-DoD Secretary nominee, Lloyd Austin, urging him to make this clean-up a top priority. In November of 2020, Schumer also wrote to then-Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett calling for Stewart ANGB to move forward with this remedial investigation. More recently, Schumer and Gillibrand announced in May 2021 that they secured the next critical step in the PFAS clean-up process, getting Stewart Air National Guard Base accepted into the well-funded and robust Defense Environmental Restoration Program, which the base was previously excluded from accessing. Today, the reps continue to meet with DoD representatives on a regular basis, pressuring the agency to continue the cleanup effort as expeditiously and thoroughly as possible. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) are two types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of manufactured chemicals, and are persistent in the environment and resist degradation. These toxic chemicals are often used to manufacture products like fabric protectors, firefighting foam, and stain repellents. They are common primary ingredients in the firefighting foam that was used at Air National Guard bases for training and fire-suppression exercises, according to state regulators. Exposure to PFAS chemicals has been linked to certain cancers and other serious adverse health effects. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://clarke.house.gov/clarke-issues-statement-on-territorial-dispute-between-venezuela-and-guyana/,CLARKE ISSUES STATEMENT ON TERRITORIAL DISPUTE BETWEEN VENEZUELA AND GUYANA,2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 8, 2023 MEDIA CONTACT: e: brian.phillips@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement regarding the recent and ongoing territorial dispute between Venezuela and Guyana: “For decades, the Guyanese people and their nation have stood among the United States’ dearest partners in the Caribbean and Western Hemisphere. As we watch the Maduro Regime steer Venezuela to disregard and utterly violate the sovereignty of its neighbor in the name of seizing resources it lacks any legitimate claim to, I echo the Biden-Harris Administration’s urging of respect for international law and Guyana’s territorial autonomy. American national security relies on the continued peaceful stability of the region – an essential undertaking that no authoritarian’s duplicitous ploys for oil wealth will ever play a role in.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-adriano-espaillat-urges-dot-approval-arajet-application-secure,Representative Adriano Espaillat Urges DOT Approval of Arajet Application to Secure Consumer Flights to the Caribbean,2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- This week, Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) sent a letter to United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg urging an exemption for Arajet S.A., a Dominican-based airline company, and its application to offer consumer flights between the Dominican Republic and the U.S. cities of San Juan, PR; Miami, FL, and New York, NY. Key excerpt from the letter: “I write today on behalf of my constituents regarding the pending application of the Dominican-based airline company Arajet S.A. (“Arajet”) for an exemption from Department of Transportation (DOT) rules that would allow Arajet to offer consumer flights between the Dominican Republic and the important hub cities of San Juan, Miami, and New York. It is my view that Arajet receiving this exemption would significantly increase affordable consumer air travel options available to my district’s numerous Dominican American and Puerto Rican diaspora constituents. As such, I ask that Arajet’s application for this exemption receive full and fair consideration from the DOT, in compliance with all applicable laws, rules, and procedures,” wrote Espaillat. Adding, the exemption “has the potential to drive down prices on flights, increase flight options, and serve as an economic boon for Caribbean families throughout the United States,"" the letter concluded. Rep. Espaillat has been a leading voice to ensure airline consumer protections, including his call in opposition to JetBlue’s anticompetitive, price-gauging practices and more recently with his support of the Dominican Republic (US-DR) Open Skies Agreement that would increase the number of flights between the U.S. and Dominican Republic, lower airfare costs, and increase tourism and economic growth in the region. Rep. Espaillat is appreciative of Secretary Buttigieg’s ongoing leadership and is encouraged that Arajet’s application will receive due consideration from the DOT especially as families begin to travel during the holiday season when airline flights often prove prohibitively expensive. The full text of Espaillat’s letter may be found here. # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-joe-morelle-honors-local-vietnam-veterans-2,CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE HONORS LOCAL VIETNAM VETERANS,2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Joseph D. Morelle,M001206,morelle.house.gov,morelle,https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Rochester, NY) – Today, Congressman Joe Morelle recognized local Vietnam Veterans by presenting them with the Vietnam War Commemoration Lapel Pin in honor of their service. “Today, I have the extraordinary privilege of presenting local veterans of the Vietnam War with lapel pins as a lasting memento of our country’s enduring gratitude,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “As President John F. Kennedy said, ‘A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces, but also by the men it honors, the men it remembers.’ It is my hope these pins serve as a constant reminder to these courageous men and women that we will never forget their service, sacrifice, and heroism.” Congressman Morelle is a member of The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration—a national 50th anniversary commemoration, authorized by Congress. The Vietnam War Commemoration lapel pins are awarded to veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time during the period of November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975. Today’s eighteen honorees are from the Braman American Legion Post 1229: Gary Palmer, US Army Peter Bonenfant, US Navy Dean Locke, US Army Finn Donaldson, US Army Charlie Hunt, US Air Force Chuck Hermance, US Air Force Bob Fosher, US Navy Richard Gough, US Army Brent Heckman, US Navy Jeanne Alexander, US Air Force David Alexander, US Air Force Theodore Voll, US Marine Corps Richard Burgey, US Army Gregory Dunbar, US Navy Noel Kier, US Coast Guard Dan Kelly, US Army Charles Klauck, US Marine Corps Michael Loughlin, US Army",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4038,Tonko Cheers Final Approval for Cohoes Floating Solar Project,2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"COHOES, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) today cheered historic progress on the City of Cohoes’ Floating Solar array, a first-of-its-kind project that will install floating solar panels on the city’s reservoir. Tonko has spent years supporting and successfully pushing for funding for this project, including by securing $3 million for the project in early 2022 through the federal Community Project Funding process. Earlier this year, the City of Cohoes finalized permits and contracts with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to ensure this critical project is fully funded. In recent days, the Cohoes Common Council granted final approval to contract with a company to begin installation of the project, thereby completing the final steps needed before the project breaks ground. “When the City of Cohoes brought this floating solar project to me years ago, I knew it could serve as a model for the nation on how to implement smart, clean energy systems that drive down consumer costs, and I have done everything in my power to support this pioneering project for our community,” Congressman Tonko said. “Following the success of months of advocacy to fund this worthy project through the Community Project Funding process, I continued to work alongside local leaders to ensure this project received funding and support. I am eternally grateful to the dedicated project leaders, whose years of efforts got this initiative off the ground and who worked alongside me every step of the way to get it across the finish line. I am eager to watch our communities reap the benefits of this innovative, clean, consumer-conscious project.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/espaillat-kamlager-dove-hail-biden-administration%E2%80%99s-3-billion-pledge-green,"Espaillat, Kamlager-Dove Hail Biden Administration’s $3 Billion Pledge to Green Climate Fund",2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – On Tuesday, December 12th at 11:00 a.m. (EST), Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) will host his annual “Brides March” vigil and press conference at the U.S. Capitol in memory of Gladys Ricart, who was murdered on her wedding day by a former abusive partner, and in support of all victims of domestic and intimate partner violence. Each Congress, Rep. Espaillat introduces the Gladys Ricart Act to establish a nationwide public registry of criminals convicted of domestic violence offenses involving a firearm. Additionally, Rep. Espaillat was proud to be part of the successful congressional effort to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act to ensure critical federal resources for domestic violence prevention, prosecution, and for survivors. This event will be livestreamed on Meta/Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RepEspaillat/. WHO: Rep. Adriano Espaillat The Brides March Members of Congress WHAT: Press Conference to End Domestic Violence and Intimate Partner Abuse WHEN: Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. (EST) WHERE: House Triangle U.S. Capitol Washington, DC # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/espaillat-salazar-lead-congressional-effort-urging-administration-finalize-us,"Espaillat, Salazar Lead Congressional Effort Urging Administration to Finalize US-DR Open Skies Agreement",2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Today, members of the Congressional Friends of the Dominican Republic Caucus, led by Caucus Chair Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) and Co-Chair María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), sent a letter to the Biden Administration expressing their support for the ongoing negotiations and swift finalization for a modernized United States—Dominican Republic (US-DR) Open Skies Agreement. In their letter, Espaillat and Salazar highlighted potential benefits of a modernized agreement that would increase flights and flight routes between the U.S. and Dominican Republic, lower airfare costs for travelers, and increase tourism and economic growth for both nations. “We write on behalf of our numerous Dominican American constituents who have been waiting for years for a modernized US-DR Open Skies Agreement that would benefit both countries and enhance our bilateral relationship,” said Rep. Adriano Espaillat. “Our constituents have regularly expressed their frustration with the current state of limited flight routes and exorbitant prices on flights from the United States to the Dominican Republic, which often prevent them from traveling to visit their family and loved ones. A modernized Open Skies Agreement would provide new flight options, lower fares, and better service among more airlines in the market, supporting the booming tourism economy and the deserving Dominican American families who wish to travel to and from their nation of origin. In turn, our letter respectfully requests that the administration continue to prioritize this important agreement’s finalization on behalf of our constituents and their families.” “High airfare prices and limited flights are making it difficult for the thousands of Dominican Americans who call Miami home to visit their families in the Dominican Republic,” said Rep. María Elvira Salazar. “As co-chair of the Friends of the Dominican Republic Caucus, I am proud to join my colleagues in urging the Biden Administration to expand opportunities to increase flights and lower airfare prices by finalizing a modern Open Skies agreement with the Dominican Republic.” Representatives Espaillat and Salazar were joined in the letter by fellow Caucus Members Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR), Grace Meng (D-NY), and Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (D-FL). The full letter can be read here. # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-adriano-espaillat-hosts-annual-brides-march-press-conference-us,Representative Adriano Espaillat Hosts Annual Brides March Press Conference at U.S. Capitol,2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – On Tuesday, December 12th at 11:00 a.m. (EST), Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) will host his annual “Brides March” vigil and press conference at the U.S. Capitol in memory of Gladys Ricart, who was murdered on her wedding day by a former abusive partner, and in support of all victims of domestic and intimate partner violence. Each Congress, Rep. Espaillat introduces the Gladys Ricart Act to establish a nationwide public registry of criminals convicted of domestic violence offenses involving a firearm. Additionally, Rep. Espaillat was proud to be part of the successful congressional effort to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act to ensure critical federal resources for domestic violence prevention, prosecution, and for survivors. This event will be livestreamed on Meta/Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RepEspaillat/. WHO: Rep. Adriano Espaillat The Brides March Members of Congress WHAT: Press Conference to End Domestic Violence and Intimate Partner Abuse WHEN: Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. (EST) WHERE: House Triangle U.S. Capitol Washington, DC # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-goldman-sham-republican-impeachment-inquiry,Statement from Congressman Dan Goldman on Sham Republican ‘Impeachment Inquiry’,2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“For the past 12 months, extremist MAGA Republicans have spent countless hours and taxpayer dollars investigating President Biden and his family in a shameless attempt to exact revenge for their Dear Leader, Donald Trump. “Speaker Johnson is now asking his members to walk the plank and endorse a sham ‘impeachment inquiry’ that has been discredited at every turn. Chairman Comer has repeatedly changed the theory of his case but still has yet to produce a shred of evidence showing that President Biden did anything wrong, much less committed a high crime or misdemeanor. “President Biden and his administration have gone above and beyond to cooperate with this baseless fishing expedition. Contrary to Donald Trump, who turned over zero documents during his first impeachment inquiry, the Committee has received more than 37,000 pages of private financial records, 2,000 pages of Treasury Department financial reports, more than 20,000 pages of documents from the National Archives, tax records and confidential investigative documents from the IRS, and the FBI FD-1023 from the Biden administration. In addition, the Committee has taken dozens of hours of testimony from more than 10 witnesses, including all of the DOJ decision-makers on the Hunter Biden probe. Finally, Hunter Biden himself has offered to testify, under oath, in a public hearing. “Despite this remarkable cooperation, House Republicans now attempt to justify an official impeachment inquiry due to purported ‘stonewalling’ by the Administration, citing unreasonable and improper requests for subordinate DOJ line prosecutors to testify as well as additional documents from the National Archives, 62,000 of which will be produced within days. This is nonsense. “The fatal flaw of this investigation is not a failure to follow the facts included in the documents, materials and testimony. It is that those facts do not support their predetermined and baseless allegations. “Speaker Johnson is incapable of passing legislation to help the American people, so he has now resorted to placating Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene by wasting time with a sham, partisan impeachment inquiry. “I urge my colleagues to reject this resolution and put an end to this weaponization of the Congress of the United States.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-fights-end-immunity-gun-manufacturers-and-hold-them,Congressman Dan Goldman Fights to End Immunity for Gun Manufacturers and Hold Them Accountable for Contributing to Gun Violence Epidemic,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"‘Equal Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act,’ Would Repeal 2005 Law Protecting Manufacturers from Victims’ Lawsuits More Than 39,000 Deaths in 2023 Thus Far Due to Gun Violence Epidemic Read the Bill Here Washington D.C. – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Congressman Adam Schiff (CA-30) to introduce the ‘Equal Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act,’ which would repeal the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA). The PLCAA, passed by Congress in 2005, has protected gun manufacturers from lawsuits and undermined the admissibility of gun trace information in civil proceedings. Historically, firearms manufacturers, sellers, and interest groups have relied on provisions in the PLCAA to shield them from civil liability, leaving countless gun violence victims and survivors without a path to recourse through the justice system. The ‘Equal Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act’ would not only ensure that victims of gun violence have their day in court, but that negligent gun manufacturers are held liable when they disregard public safety, and that gun trace data can be accepted as evidence in court. “Gun manufacturers cannot be allowed to freely and intentionally flood our streets with weapons of war without consequences,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “For nearly two decades, victims of gun violence have had no legal recourse against the companies that sell these dangerous weapons in our communities. If we are going to truly fight to end the scourge of gun violence in this country, we must hold gun manufacturers accountable.” Congressman Dan Goldman is committed to protecting communities across the country from the dangers of gun violence. In October, the Congressman joined with fellow leadership members of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force to condemn the Republican failure to respond to the gun violence epidemic, as well as joining the Task Force in a letter urging Speaker Johnson to use his new authority to bring bipartisan, commonsense gun safety legislation to the floor for a vote. Last month, Congressman Goldman cosponsored the ‘Responsible Firearms Marketing Act,’ which would direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to study the dangers of unfair and deceptive marketing and advertising practices utilized by the gun industry. Congressman Goldman is a Vice Chair of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and was recently named as Chair of the Dads Caucus Gun Violence Prevention Working Group. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-castro-goldman-torres-cherfilus-mccormick-introduce-americas,"Representatives Castro, Goldman, Torres, Cherfilus-Mccormick Introduce the Americas Regional Monitoring of Arms Sales Act to Curb U.S. Firearm Trafficking to Latin America and Caribbean",2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Read the Bill Here Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today with Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35), and Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) introduced the Americas Regional Monitoring of Arms Sales (ARMAS) Act, legislation that would disrupt firearm trafficking from the United States to Latin America and the Caribbean by implementing stronger transparency, accountability, and oversight mechanisms for U.S. arms exports. ""Transnational criminal organizations, especially drug cartels, rely on American-made guns to control their human trafficking and drug smuggling operations by force,"" Congressman Dan Goldman said. ""We must take every avenue possible to ensure that American weapons do not get into the hands of the cartels, who use them to threaten the safety and prosperity of the entire Western Hemisphere. It's incumbent upon American leadership and a strong federal response to keep weapons of war out of the hands of the cartels. The ARMAS Act is a key component of that much-needed response."" Congressman Joaquin Castro said, “Nearly four years ago, the Trump administration worked with the National Rifle Association to loosen gun export regulations and unleash a flood of American-made guns on the Western Hemisphere. As we work with our allies and partners to address shared regional challenges, including forced migration and drug trafficking, Congress needs to address the role of U.S. gun exports in driving violence and instability abroad. The ARMAS Act will reestablish strong oversight of American gun exports, bring federal agencies together to disrupt arms trafficking, and build safer communities for families in the United States and in the Western Hemisphere.” Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick said, “Weapons trafficking by way of the United States is a major contributor to Haiti’s growing gang crisis and the current instability that plagues the country. The implementation of stronger transparency, accountability, and oversight mechanisms for U.S. arms exports would address this regional issue and stop guns from getting into the hands of dangerous criminals.” Congresswoman Norma Torres said, “The American people deserve transparency when it comes to American-made guns being sent abroad. There must be greater Congressional oversight over dangerous firearms exports. I have long pushed for policies to address firearms trafficking and its deadly and often destabilizing impacts on regions like the Northern Triangle. The ARMAS Act – which includes my legislation to crack down on deadly firearms exports – provides much-needed transparency and accountability mechanisms. This legislation will disrupt firearms trafficking across the Western Hemisphere and bolster both America's national security and the security of our neighbors.” Nick Wilson, senior director for Gun Violence Prevention at Center for American Progress said, “Guns from the U.S. are being used by violent groups in Latin America and the Caribbean to commit atrocities and destabilize the region. The ARMAS Act would increase accountability and transparency in arms exports. It includes several crucial provisions that gun violence advocates and survivors have identified as key to being crucial to reducing the illegal flow of US guns to other countries. I commend Rep. Castro’s leadership on this issue. If passed, the ARMAS Act would undoubtedly save lives.” As the Western Hemisphere grapples with rising violence and insecurity exacerbated by the increasing presence and aggression of transnational criminal organizations, including those involved in fentanyl trafficking, the United States must address its own role in furthering these crises. According to data from the Government Accountability Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, U.S.-sourced firearms accounted for 75 percent of firearms recovered from the Dominican Republic and 70 percent from Mexico. Most recently, U.S. guns were connected to the murder and kidnapping of four American citizens in the border town of Matamoros, Mexico. In 2020, the Trump administration transferred authority over small arms exports from the State Department to the Commerce Department in a giveaway to gun lobbyists that loosened registration requirements and export oversight. At the time, the National Rifle Association released a statement celebrating the decision as allowing export manufacturers to “run more competitively among the global markets.” The transfer has led to skyrocketing arms sales, with a 30 percent annual increase in U.S. arms exports globally and an 82 percent increase in U.S. handgun exports to Latin America and the Caribbean. Across the Western Hemisphere, public reporting has shown that firearms from the United States contribute substantially to political suppression, gang violence, and human rights violations. The ARMAS Act will address these challenges by: Transferring small arms authority from the Commerce Department and back to the State Department to ensure greater accountability and transparency. Requiring the development of a comprehensive interagency strategy and program, led by the State Department, to disrupt arms trafficking and diversion of exported firearms and create a certification requirement for arm sales end-users. Providing for congressional notification, review, and oversight of certain small arms exports regulated by the State Department. Requiring the submission of an annual report by the State Department and relevant agencies that will allow Congress to understand the challenges and successes of current efforts to address illegal arms trafficking and inform future strategies. Prohibiting the Commerce Department from promoting small arm sales globally throughout the transfer of authority period. The ARMAS Act is co-sponsored by Reps. Raúl M. Grijalva (AZ-07), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Jesús G. “Chuy” Garcia (IL-04), Gerry Connolly (VA-11), Seth Magazine (RI-02), Juan Vargas (CA-52) and endorsed by the Center for American Progress, the Newtown Action Alliance, the Stop U.S. Arms to Mexico project, Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC), Global Exchange, Global Action on Gun Violence. Congressman Dan Goldman is committed to keeping weapons of war out of the hands of drug cartels. Last month, Congressman Goldman introduced the Disarming Cartels Act to curtail the trafficking of U.S.-made firearms and ammunition south-bound over the U.S.-Mexico border. Guns originating in the United States power human- and drug-trafficking efforts and other illicit activities by cartels and other transnational criminal organizations in Mexico and beyond. Congressman Goldman is a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-joe-morelle-pays-tribute-garth-fagan,CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE PAYS TRIBUTE TO GARTH FAGAN,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Joseph D. Morelle,M001206,morelle.house.gov,morelle,https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle delivered a “One Minute” Speech to the House of Representatives in honor of Rochester’s own Garth Fagan. His remarks will appear in the Congressional Record, and the transcript is below. “Today, I stand to honor Garth Fagan, a Rochester visionary who profoundly influenced the cultural fabric of not only our local community, but the entire world. As we pay tribute to this extraordinary artist, I'd like to acknowledge and celebrate the deep connection between Garth Fagan and the people and places enriched by his vision. Committed to Rochester's artistic growth, He established the “Bottom of the Bucket BUT... Dance Theatre” in 1970, now known simply as Garth Fagan Dance. Since then, Garth has inspired and nurtured a new generation of talented artists from around the globe. His innovative choreography has earned him accolades, including a Tony Award for Broadway's “The Lion King,” a production masterfully blending culture and creativity, which will remain forever a testament to his artistic brilliance. Garth Fagan is truly a national treasure, and as he transitions away from his leadership role in the dance company, his profound impact will undoubtedly continue to resonate—captivating audiences for generations to come. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield back.” Video footage is available and can be viewed here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4036,Tonko Joins Father & Son from District to Highlight Inflation Reduction Act Wins,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) co-chair Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) joined a SEEC roundtable today to highlight the investments of the Inflation Reduction Act and how it is driving exponential growth in our clean energy workforce. During the roundtable, Tonko spoke with two of the attendees, Eric Romero Sr. and Eric Romero Jr., residents of Schenectady, NY and union members of the IUE-CWA Local 301. The two, along with the other panelists from today’s roundtable, highlighted how the Inflation Reduction Act influenced job growth in their communities and the economic benefits of growing out the middle class with the clean economy. “Often I have spoken about the significant benefits delivered to our workers and communities through investments in the Inflation Reduction Act,” Congressman Tonko said. “The clean energy workers and manufacturers who shared their stories and insights with us at today’s roundtable showed firsthand the real-world, human impacts of this transformation law. I pushed to advance the Inflation Reduction Act because I believe in doing all we can at the federal level to support hardworking, union workers as they work on the frontlines to drive our clean energy transition. I’m grateful to the Romero’s and all our panelists for sharing their stories. Bolstered by their insights, I am more dedicated than ever to securing a clean energy future that supports our environment, our communities, and our workers.” Tonko first met the father and son during a roundtable event in August with U.S. Trade Representative, Ambassador Katherine Tai that highlighted how Biden’s Investing in America agenda is lifting up domestic manufacturers and workers, focusing on advanced and clean energy manufacturing and union jobs in the Capital Region.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4037,Tonko Heralds Key Advance of His Parkinson’s Bill Out of Committee,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) today cheered the advance of bipartisan legislation he championed alongside Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) that would unite the federal government in a mission to cure and prevent Parkinson’s disease. Preceding the advance of the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act out of the full Energy and Commerce Committee, Tonko spoke before the committee to highlight the importance of this legislation and thank Rep. Bilirakis, local and national advocates, and his colleague Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton who — following a diagnosis of Parkinson’s earlier this year that was later re-diagnosed as Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) — served as a powerful and dedicated advocate for the Parkinson’s community and for the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act. Tonko’s remarks read in part: “In Congress, I have made helping those with neurological disorders one of my top priorities for more than a decade. I first learned about Parkinson’s from a friend who suffered with it. So when the opportunity arose to partner with Congressman Bilirakis on this meaningful effort I jumped right in and made it my personal mission to get this done on behalf of the millions of people living with Parkinson’s. “I understand that receiving a Parkinson’s diagnosis is truly devastating for individuals and their loved ones. It is incumbent on Congress to ensure Americans know they will be supported during this frightening and life-altering time. Our legislation does just that. “To all my colleagues here thank you for your strong support and commitment to the Parkinson’s community. By moving this forward we will make a positive difference, improve lives and even save lives. And for the millions of Americans living with Parkinson’s, as well as their loved ones, I hope this brings much needed hope.” Watch Tonko’s full remarks before the committee here. Parkinson’s disease is the second most common — and fastest-growing — neurological disease globally with nearly 60,000 new cases diagnosed every year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/velazquez-leads-seven-members-requesting-information-availability-plant,Velázquez Leads Seven Members in Requesting Information on Availability of Plant-Based and Alternate Protein Meals in Schools,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Nydia M. Velázquez,V000081,velazquez.house.gov,velazquez,https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) led seven colleagues in penning a letter to the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) requesting an update on the status of the collection of data on the expansion of plant-based and other alternative protein meal options in schools. Under the FY2023 House Agriculture Appropriations Bill, FNS was directed to collect, analyze, and publish research on the availability of alternate protein meal options for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and the School Breakfast Program (SBP). “More than 8 months have passed since the passage of the FY2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act, and as more schools across the country are seeking to expand plant-based meal options, this information is greatly needed by state and local school meal administrators to ensure compliance with FNS’s meal pattern requirements,” wrote the lawmakers. Leading public health organizations all encourage fiber-rich, plant-forward diets. Implementing more plant-based proteins has the potential to foster greater alignment of school meals with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which recommend increasing the consumption of beans, peas, and lentils, increasing dietary fiber, and replacing processed meats. Due to racial and cultural diversity in student populations, plant-based meals are increasingly vital to satisfy the dietary, religious, and cultural needs of students. There is an abundant amount of Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC) who not only prefer but find it necessary to follow a plant-based diet. “The K-12 student population has become increasingly racially and culturally diverse, as well as environmentally conscious and concerned for animal welfare,” wrote the lawmakers. “Right now, there is a clear need to prioritize the adoption of plant-based food in schools, but it is critical to have the data and research to guide school meal administrators in this implementation.” In addition to Velázquez, the letter was signed by Representatives: Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-CA), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), and Delia C. Ramirez (D-IL). For a full copy of the letter, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-ryan-announce-nearly-39-million-for-riverkeeper-for-removal-of-holden-dam-on-quassaick-creek_boosting-ongoing-efforts-to-protect-hudson-river-watershed,"SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, RYAN ANNOUNCE NEARLY $3.9 MILLION FOR RIVERKEEPER FOR REMOVAL OF HOLDEN DAM ON QUASSAICK CREEK – BOOSTING ONGOING EFFORTS TO PROTECT HUDSON RIVER WATERSHED",2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Fed $$$ From NFWF Will Fund Removal Of Aging Nearly 100 Year Old Holden Dam on Quassaick Creek In Newburgh – Protecting Local Infrastructure, Enhancing Flood Resilience, And Restoring Critical Habitat For Fish And Wildlife Reps Say This Major Federal Investment For Riverkeeper Was Made Possible Thanks To The Historic Increases They Secured In The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Schumer, Gillibrand, Ryan: Major Fed Investment To Remove Obsolete Holden Dam on Quassaick Creek In Newburgh Helping Turn The Tide On Protecting & Restoring The Hudson River Watershed U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and U.S. Congressman Pat Ryan today announced $3,879,000 in federal funding from the National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) for Riverkeeper to remove the aging Holden Dam on the Quassaick Creek, bordering Newburgh and New Windsor, as part of its ongoing efforts to protect the Hudson River Watershed. Schumer personally wrote the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in support of Riverkeeper, with funding made possible thanks to the historic increases secured in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. The lawmakers said this project will enhance flood resilience from climate change to the surrounding Hudson Valley communities and will protect, enhance and restore critical habitat for local fish and wildlife. ""I am proud to announce nearly $3.9 million in federal funding for Riverkeeper to remove the aging Holden Dam on Quassaick Creek – protecting residents from flooding and restoring both local infrastructure as well as critical habitat for local fish and wildlife. When I led the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to passage, it was long overdue investments in protecting the Hudson River Watershed and enhancing flood resilience that I had in mind. Now an aging dam in Newburgh will be transformed to help restore our environments and safeguard our communities from future flooding ,” said Senator Schumer. “This project is a testament to the transformative impact we can make when we secure historic funding increases for critical environmental initiatives, which is why I was proud to write a letter of support for it. Together, we are turning the tide on safeguarding the Hudson River and its surrounding communities for generations to come."" “The removal of the obsolete Holden Dam is a crucial step in the process of protecting and restoring the Hudson Valley Watershed,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This important funding to remove the dam will help enhance flood resiliency for area residents and will benefit local fish and wildlife. I am proud to have written a letter of support to help secure this important funding and I’ll continue to fight to protect and restore the Hudson River Watershed.” “This past summer, we saw how catastrophic flooding events can sweep away the livelihoods of Hudson Valley families in an instant. As these once-in-a-lifetime events become more severe and frequent, our families and communities deserve immediate action and protection,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “I’m proud to have secured this monumental funding of nearly $3.9 million that will both safeguard Newburgh families from tragic flooding and deliver high-paying local jobs. I will keep fighting to strengthen climate resilience and protect the ecosystem of our cherished Hudson River for our children’s futures.” “Taking down the obsolete Holden Dam will be transformative for the City of Newburgh and its residents, and will restore two miles of critical spawning habitat for iconic Hudson River fish species that are rapidly declining. The project will also strengthen resilience around infrastructure and keep an underserved community safe by preventing a catastrophic dam failure,” said Riverkeeper Science Director Shannon Roback. “Riverkeeper is grateful to Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and Congressman Pat Ryan for the increases in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Law, which paved the way for this critical funding through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF).” Specifically, the Reps said that Riverkeeper’s project, titled “Protecting Infrastructure and Restoring Fish Habitat in the Hudson River Estuary,” aims to remove Holden Dam on Quassaick Creek to protect local infrastructure and restore two miles of critical freshwater habitat for Hudson River migratory species that are in decline. According to Riverkeeper, Holden Dam is an obsolete and failing dam, and frequent flooding due to climate and coastal impacts at the dam is causing stream bank erosion and threatens the City of Newburgh and Town of New Windsor’s surrounding infrastructure and communities. The Reps explained that Quassaick Creek is highly susceptible to flash flooding during rain events causing erosion of the stream bank, which destabilizes the City of Newburgh’s main sewer line. A sewer main break at Holden Dam would be catastrophic, undoing $10 million in investment and upgrades by the City. This federal funding will produce a long-term solution that not only stabilizes the channel and banks of the Quassaick Creek and protects the adjacent West Trunk Sewer Line from future exposure and possible failure, but also prevents a failure of the dam that would mobilize large amounts of toxic sediment downstream and ultimately into the Hudson River. The project will engage 400 local residents, strengthen resilience around infrastructure, and restore habitat for iconic Hudson River species. The NCRF is primarily funded by, and coordinated with, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF). This year’s awards come in large part thanks to historic increases in funding Schumer and Gillibrand were able to secure as a part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Law that enabled the NCRF to increase the number of awards and the size of awards granted for natural infrastructure projects benefiting local communities. A copy of Schumer’s letter of support to NFWF appears below: Dear Ms. Grannis: I write in support of the application submitted by Riverkeeper to the 2023 National Coastal Resilience Fund through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for funding to remove the Holden Dam on the Quassaick Creek in Newburgh, New York, as part of its ongoing efforts to protect the Hudson River Watershed. It has become clear in recent years that the Holden Dam, built nearly 100 years ago, no longer serves any functional purpose and exists at a detriment to the health of the Quassaick Creek and the Newburgh community that cares for it. Not only is the dam a culprit for poor water quality, but it has caused great damage to infrastructure in Newburgh. In July of 2012 and again in October of the same year, the accelerated flow velocity of the creek caused by the dam caused the sewer line in Newburgh to collapse, releasing approximately 5 million gallons of untreated wastewater and stormwater into the creek each time and costing the City of Newburgh $1.7 million in repairs. A breach has been made to mitigate future damage, but engineers and environmentalists alike recommend removal as soon as possible to facilitate a swift restoration to the creek's ecology. The Holden Dam Removal project will provide immense societal, physical, and ecological benefits to the Quassaick Creek tributary in line with the National Coastal Resilience Fund's mission to minimize the impacts of natural disasters and restore the natural features of floodplains and coastal rivers. Additionally, removal of the dam would help to reinstate natural sediment transport and hydrology, moderate stream temperature, restore connectivity of river reaches both upstream, downstream, and laterally, to floodplains while creating diverse habitats to encourage colonization by fish and wildlife. I strongly urge the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to support Riverkeeper's request and applaud the organization for its foresight. Thank you for your consideration of this important ecological restoration project. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/statements-from-the-eighth-bipartisan-senate-forum-on-artificial-intelligence,Statements From The Eighth Bipartisan Senate Forum On Artificial Intelligence,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Todd Young (R-IN) hosted an eighth AI Insight Forum focused on the risks associated with AI and how we can mitigate them to maximize the benefits of this powerful technology. Below are the statements made at the forum: U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) Opening Statement Closing Statement Vijay Balasubramaniyan – Pindrop, CEO & Co-Founder Okezue Bell – Fidutam, President Yoshua Bengio – University of Montreal, Professor Malo Bourgon – Machine Intelligence Research Institute, CEO Martin Casado – Andreessen Horowitz, General Partner Rocco Casagrande – Gryphon Scientific, Executive Chairman Renée Cummings – University of Virginia, Assistant Professor of the Practice in Data Science Huey-Meei Chang – Georgetown’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology, Senior China Science & Technology Specialist Janet Haven – Data & Society, Executive Director Jared Kaplan – Anthropic, Co-Founder Aleksander Madry – OpenAI, Head of Preparedness Andrew Ng – AI Fund, Managing General Partner Hodan Omaar – ITIF, Senior Policy Analyst Robert Playter – Boston Dynamics, CEO Stuart Russell – UC Berkley, Professor",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/statements-from-the-ninth-bipartisan-senate-forum-on-artificial-intelligence,Statements From The Ninth Bipartisan Senate Forum On Artificial Intelligence,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Todd Young (R-IN) hosted a ninth AI Insight Forum focused on the intersection of AI and national security, including maximizing AI development to bolster America’s military capabilities. Below are the statements made at the forum: U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) Opening Statement Closing Statement Greg Allen – Center for Strategic and International Studies, Director of Wadhwani Center for AI and Advanced Technologies John Antal – Author, Colonel (ret.) Matthew Biggs – International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, President Teresa Carlson – General Catalyst, Advisor & Investor Bill Chappell – Microsoft, Vice President and CTO, Strategic Missions and Technologies Eric Fanning – Aerospace Industries Association, President & CEO Michele Flournoy – Center for a New American Security, CEO & Co-Founder Alex Karp – Palantir, CEO Charlie McMillan – Los Alamos National Laboratory, Director (ret.) Faiza Patel – Brennan Center for Justice, Senior Director of the Liberty and National Security Program Scott Philips – Vannevar Labs, CTO Rob Portman – Former Senator & Co-Founder of AI Caucus Anna Puglisi – Georgetown University Center for Security and Emerging Technology, Senior Fellow Devaki Raj – CrowdAI, Co-Founder Horacio Rozanski – Booz Allen Hamilton, CEO Eric Schmidt – Special Competitive Studies Project, Chair Jack Shanahan – CNAS Technology & National Security Program, Lieutenant General (USAF, Ret.) Brian Schimpf – Anduril, CEO Patrick Toomey – American Civil Liberties Union, Deputy Director of the National Security Project Brandon Tseng – Shield AI, President & Co-Founder",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressional-latino-jewish-caucus-leaders-meet-families-remaining-hostages,Congressional Latino-Jewish Caucus Leaders Meet with Families of Remaining Hostages held by Hamas,2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Latino-Jewish Caucus Representatives Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL), Debbie Wasserman Shultz (D-FL), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), and Tony Gonzales (R-TX), issued the following statement after meeting with families and friends of hostages who remain held captive by Hamas: “Today, as co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Latino-Jewish Caucus, we had the solemn opportunity to meet with families and friends of hostages held in Gaza, many who are dual citizens from Argentina, Colombia, and other Latin American countries, and who are still being held by Hamas terrorists,"" said the Members. ""We were appalled by the horrific stories of October 7 that we heard from the group and the mistreatment suffered by those kidnapped. As Members of Congress, we stand in bipartisan and unwavering solidarity with the hostages and call for their immediate release. With the rise of antisemitism and hate crimes globally, terrorism, sexual violence against women, and over a hundred hostages still held in Gaza, the work to combat these evils is even more urgent. We remain resolved in our commitment to continue our collective efforts to work toward the return and reunification of the hostages with their families."" Below is the list of the hostages whose families and friends attended the meeting: Omri Miran (46), Israeli-Hungarian dual citizen Elkana Bohbot (34), Israeli-Colombian dual citizen Tal Shoham (30), Israeli-Austrian dual citizen Alexander (Sasha) Troponov (27), Israeli-Russian dual citizen Sagui Dekel-Chen (35), Israeli-American dual citizen Eitan Horan (37) and Yair Horan (45), Israeli Argentinian dual citizens # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-congresswoman-sara-jacobs-introduce-bill-package,"Congressman Dan Goldman, Congresswoman Sara Jacobs Introduce Bill Package to Reduce Student Loan Debt Burden",2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"‘GRADUATE Act’ Allows Borrowers to Deduct Up to $10,000 in Student Loan Payments from Taxes ‘Codifying SAVE Plan Act’ Protects the Biden Administration’s Student Loan Repayment Plan from Rollbacks by Future Presidents Read the ‘GRADUATE Act’ Here Read the ‘Codifying SAVE Plan Act’ Here Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (CA-51) today introduced a package of legislation to help combat the unaffordability crisis facing American higher education. The GRADUATE Act enacts a long overdue expansion of the Student Loan Interest Deduction for the first time since 2001, raising the deduction to $10,000 for qualifying borrowers and covering payments of the student loan principal for the first time. The Codifying SAVE Plan Act enshrines the Biden Administration’s historic student loan repayment plan into federal law, protecting the critical regulation from rollbacks by future presidential administrations. Both bills are cosponsored by Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), and Ro Khanna (CA-17). “Higher education remains a vital driver of economic mobility, and we must make it affordable so that every student can access the American Dream,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “The average New York State borrower holds over $32,000 in student loan debt upon graduation, and that obscene total keeps higher education out of reach for many prospective students, especially those coming from underrepresented and underserved communities. We cannot allow college to remain attainable solely for the wealthiest among us, and we must ensure that New Yorkers, and students everywhere, have access to the benefits and possibilities provided by higher education.” Congresswoman Sara Jacobs said, “Our country’s student debt crisis has forced millions of people – especially Millennials – to delay or deny many of life’s biggest milestones like buying a home, having kids, or starting a business. We need to do more to bring down the costs of education and eliminate barriers that prevent equal access to quality higher education – including addressing the crushing student debt crisis. That’s why I’m proud to co-lead the GRADUATE Act and the Codifying SAVE Plan Act, which would increase the tax deduction for student loan payments and make permanent the most affordable income-driven repayment plan ever.” The GRADUATE Act: Would allow student loan borrowers to deduct their student loan payments (including accrued interest) from their taxable income. The amount they can deduct will depend on their gross taxable income level: Borrowers earning up to $125,000 a year would be able to deduct their student loan payments (both payments to principal and accrued interest) up to $10,000. The deduction phases out between incomes of $125,001 per year and $150,000 per year. For every child or dependent, borrowers can deduct an additional $500. Like the current student loan interest deduction, payments for both public and private loans would be eligible. The GRADUATE Act is supported by the National Education Association (NEA), the Student Borrower Protection Center, and the American Federation of Teachers. The Codifying SAVE Plan Act: This bill would codify the Biden Administration’s new income-driven repayment plan, the SAVE Plan, into law, protecting this new policy from future presidential administrations. The SAVE Plan cuts undergraduate borrowers’ monthly payments from 10 percent of their monthly income to 5 percent, and monthly payments would be $0 for those earning under 225 percent of the poverty line. The SAVE Plan also ensures that the Department of Education does not charge any monthly interest not covered by a borrower’s payment while they are on the SAVE plan. The SAVE Plan Act is supported by The Institute for College Access & Success, the National Education Association (NEA), The Education Trust, the Young Invincibles, the American Federation of Teachers, the National Urban League, and the Center For Law and Social Policy (CLASP). AFT President Randi Weingarten said, “For decades, Americans have been told that a college education is the pathway to the American dream, but chronic disinvestment and predatory loan servicers have turned it into a debt-riddled nightmare. Fortunately, Reps. Dan Goldman and Sara Jacobs are stepping up to expand and codify the Biden administration’s bold moves to make life a little easier for Americans who just want to go to college. The GRADUATE Act would quadruple the student loan interest deduction, giving borrowers sorely needed relief, and the Codifying SAVE Plan Act would make sure President Biden’s game-changing income-driven repayment plan is around for the long term. These bills have the AFT’s full support. They would create the most affordable repayment options ever and mean a college degree is more accessible, affordable and achievable—not a liability that makes life harder.” Satra D. Taylor, Director of Higher Education and Workforce Policy and Advocacy at Young Invincibles said, “The SAVE plan is a step in the right direction to alleviating the burdens of the current student debt crisis by creating historically low payments while preventing a growing balance from unpaid interest. It is imperative to codify the SAVE plan language to reduce the stress of student debt for young people. Young Invincibles is dedicated to advancing economic opportunity for young Americans. While we continue to advocate for the swift cancellation of student debt, codifying the SAVE Plan can provide much-needed financial stability to ease the burden of repayment for young people.” Marc H. Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League said, “The SAVE Plan is the most affordable income-driven repayment plan for student loan borrowers. Black students are forced to borrow more often and at higher amounts than white counterparts due to the financial impact of systemic racism and the racial wealth gap. Access to affordable repayment plans like the SAVE plan is paramount to economic security and power for Black borrowers and communities. The National Urban League commends Representatives Goldman and Jacobs for their work to ensure the continuation of this vital plan.” Michele Shepard, Senior Director of College Affordability at the Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS) said, “We strongly support legislation to codify the SAVE Plan. The SAVE Plan provides meaningful financial relief to millions of student loan borrowers and helps shield students from debt that has not paid off.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressmembers-nadler-goldman-and-raskin-urging-colleagues-vote,"Statement from Congressmembers Nadler, Goldman, and Raskin Urging Colleagues to Vote ‘present’ on H.Res. 894",2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“Today’s Resolution, authored by Representatives Kustoff and Miller and backed by Republican leadership, is just the latest unserious attempt by Republicans to weaponize Jewish pain and the serious problem of antisemitism to score cheap political points. Last week, the Congress recognized that denying the right of Israel to exist as a Jewish state— the core definition of Zionism — constitutes antisemitism. This new resolution is therefore redundant of ones we have all supported and is instead intended to waste important floor time to use the rise of antisemitism as a political wedge issue. “In order to stop the Majority from playing these political games, we will vote Present, and we urge our colleagues — regardless of their substantive views of the resolution — to do the same. “Among other problems with this resolution, H. Res. 894 does not account for the complexity of Judaism itself and ignores nuanced examples such as the Satmar sect, a Hasidic Jewish movement, which remains staunchly anti-Zionist and quite obviously is not antisemitic. “By contrast, our resolution condemning antisemitism and calling for implementation of the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, introduced yesterday by Representatives Nadler, Goldman, and Raskin, calls for a bipartisan approach that will meaningfully and substantively address the problem of antisemitism, including tangible solutions such as funding for enforcement of Title VI to address antisemitism on college campuses and increasing funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. “The threat of antisemitism and the safety of Jewish lives is not a game. It is beneath the dignity of Congress and it is an affront to Jews everywhere to treat rising antisemitism as an opportunity to create partisan division with conceptual confusion, and we encourage all members of good conscience to vote Present on H.Res. 894 and urge Speaker Johnson to immediately bring the resolution authored by Nadler, Goldman, and Raskin to the floor for a vote so that the Congress can meaningfully address the problems rather than use feckless messaging bills for political gain.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/meng-applauds-postal-service-audit-following-letter-she-sent-urging,Meng Applauds Postal Service Audit Following A Letter She Sent Urging An Investigation Into Mail Theft In The District,2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Grace Meng,M001188,meng.house.gov,meng,https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"QUEENS, NEW YORK – Today, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) applauded the United States Postal Service of Inspector General’s (OIG) announcement that it is auditing the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) efforts to mitigate mail theft in Queens. In her ongoing effort to combat mail theft in the district, in a letter, Meng convinced USPS OIG to investigate mail that is being delivered throughout the borough. “For years, my constituents have voiced their concerns about the lack of safety of their mail as it travels through the postal system. I am proud to have catalyzed a response by OIG, ultimately leading to an audit that will investigate the mail theft problem plaguing our community,” said Meng. “My constituents deserve the peace of mind and benefits that so many other Americans enjoy, knowing that their mail is safe. This is a huge step in addressing the issue and I am honored to have spurred the start of this investigation on behalf of my constituents.” This is the first time that such an investigation into Queens mail security has been conducted. The extent of the audit will include an examination of the mail system to help determine the adequacy of the security of mail in Queens. The estimated release date of the investigation report is currently scheduled for March of next year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-13-million-for-syracuse-university-and-mohawk-valley-community-college-through-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-and-jobs-law-to-expand-clean-energy-workforce-training-programs-to-help-students-access-good-paying-jobs-in-hvac-advanced-engineering-and-other-in-demand-industries,SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $1.3+ MILLION FOR SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY AND MOHAWK VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE THROUGH THE BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE & JOBS LAW TO EXPAND CLEAN ENERGY WORKFORCE TRAINING PROGRAMS TO HELP...,2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Says Syracuse University Was Selected As One Of Only 10 Inaugural Building Training and Assessment Centers In The Country, Along With Mohawk Valley Community College, As The Latest Addition To The New Industrial Assessment Centers To Receive Funding To Boost Training For Local Workforce Development New Federal $$$ Made Possible By The Historic Investments Schumer Secured In The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law Will Help Students Get Hands-On Skills They Need For Good-Paying Union Jobs In The Clean Energy Industry Schumer: My Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law Is Training The Next Generation Of Clean Energy Workers Right Here In Upstate NY! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer announced today announced $1.3+ million from the Department of Energy (DOE) for Syracuse University and Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) to expand workforce training programs for students entering the clean energy workforce. Schumer explained that this federal investment, powered by the historic levels of funding he secured in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, will bring Syracuse University into an exclusive cohort of only 10 Building Training and Assessment Center (BTAC) in America with $900,000 in funding to grow their clean energy jobs programs, as well as $440,000 for MVCC as the newest addition to the Industrial Assessment Center (IAC) program to help expand their HVAC and advanced manufacturing programs. “Syracuse University and MVCC are being recognized and rewarded as leaders for their growing clean energy workforce training programs, and now new fed funding through our Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law will help power the next generation of students to get the skills they need to secure these highly in-demand careers in Upstate NY,” said Senator Schumer. “This $1.3 million will help our students get the hands-on, real-world training they need to succeed in careers from HVAC to advanced engineering. When I led the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to passage, it was game-changing investments like these – that not only advance environmental goals, but also create pathways for good-paying, union jobs that can help young people build their lives here in CNY and the Mohawk Valley – that I had in mind. I am proud to see these funds supporting Syracuse University and Mohawk Valley Community College in leading the charge toward a cleaner, more prosperous future."" “I am grateful that Senate Majority Leader Schumer recognizes the value in programs that leverage Syracuse University’s intellectual capacity to address societal needs and global challenges. We at Syracuse University are going well beyond the traditional classroom education to provide our students with relevant experiences and training that can solve some of the most important environmental problems of our day. This kind of federal funding is an investment in the future, and the education and training it supports will pay back dividends in terms of a healthier community and climate,” said Syracuse University Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation Mike Haynie. ""We extend our deepest gratitude to Senator Schumer for championing investment in both physical and human infrastructure. Through the Mohawk Valley Industrial Assessment Center, we are confident this funding will drive Upstate NY towards a sustainable future, generating clean energy jobs and tackling workforce challenges. This initiative underscores our dedication to innovation and community collaboration, promising a transformative influence on our students and the entire region,” said Mohawk Valley Community College President Randall VanWagoner. Schumer explained that the Syracuse University Building Training and Assessment Center (SU-BTAC) will utilize the $900,000 federal investment to educate and provide hands-on training for up to 15 engineering students and 20-30 building personnel while performing 10-15 building assessments focused on reducing the energy burden and carbon emission each year. Specifically, the SU-BATC will train both undergraduate and graduate students in heating, ventilation and air condition (HVAC), building energy management systems, Internet of Things-based monitoring and innovative assessments, machine learning-based smart controls, and more. The SU-BTAC will work with several regional entities, companies, and labor unions to identify and assist potential commercial and institutional building clients and provide a variety of high-quality job training pathways. Schumer said Mohawk Valley Community College will use the $440,000 in federal funding to work with their regional Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) and other community and industry partners to provide assessments to local manufacturers while training students for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC) and advanced manufacturing technician roles. The college will also develop and disseminate training modules to manufacturing workers in clean energy techniques and work with local partners to expand pre-college training programs, with a focus on serving Utica’s low-income communities. Over the three-year span of the initiative, MVCC envisions the creation of 60 new jobs, the reconfiguration of 90 existing positions, the development of 15 courses, and the enrollment of at least 100 trainees. The DOE’s Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC) manages the IAC Program, and the Office of State and Community Energy Programs (SCEP) manages the BTAC Program. MESC focuses on accelerating America’s transition to a resilient, equitable energy future through $20 billion of direct investments in manufacturing and workforce development. SCEP works with state and local organizations to accelerate clean energy technologies, catalyze local economic development and create jobs, reduce energy costs, and avoid pollution. Schumer has an extensive record of championing workforce development efforts at both Syracuse University and Mohawk Valley Community College. In September, Schumer delivered $5M in DoD funding for Syracuse University and partners to expand microelectronics workforce training and connect job seekers with defense manufacturing and tech employers, as well as $2M in DOL funding for the Workforce Development Board of Herkimer, Madison and Oneida Counties and Mohawk Valley Community College to develop Fast Track Plus, a compressed-time training program covering the basic employment skills that students need before starting technical training. In July, Schumer secured $2.5M in NSF funding to help increase access for underserved populations and diversify the New York State STEM workforce. In May, Schumer brought NSF Director Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan and Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra to Syracuse University to unveil the Northeast University Semiconductor Network of 20+ universities focused on semiconductor workforce training and meet with key workforce development stakeholders from across Central New York. In January, Schumer secured $2 million in CDS funding for Mohawk Valley Community College to create a new state-of-the-art semiconductor-and-advanced-manufacturing training center. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-new-fed-effort-to-address-rural-doctor-shortage-and-help-bring-more-physicians-to-upstate-ny-with-expanded-j-1-visa-waiver-program-through-the-northern-border-regional-comission-helping-address-ongoing-healthcare-worker-shortage-and-increasing-access-to-affordable-high-quality-health-care,"SCHUMER ANNOUNCES NEW FED EFFORT TO ADDRESS RURAL DOCTOR SHORTAGE & HELP BRING MORE PHYSICIANS TO UPSTATE NY WITH EXPANDED J-1 VISA WAIVER PROGRAM THROUGH THE NORTHERN BORDER REGIONAL COMISSION,...",2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer, Who Delivered Historic Funding Through The Infrastructure Law For The NBRC, Is Leading The Charge In The Senate To Reauthorize And Expand This Vital Agency, Says New Program Is Major Step To Help Recruit Doctors To Upstate New York Communities Like Those In The North Country, CNY, WNY, And Finger Lakes NBRC’s New J-1 Visa Waiver Program Aims To Boost Healthcare By Easing The Visa Requirements For Doctors Who Agree To Practice In Underserved Areas Of The Northern Border Region Like Upstate NY Schumer: New NBRC Visa Program Is Just What The Doctor Ordered To Help Bring More Physicians And Better Healthcare To Upstate NY U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced the launch of the Northern Border Regional Commission’s (NBRC) new J-1 Visa Waiver Program, an initiative the senator has long pushed for which can help recruit and bring more highly needed physicians to rural Upstate New York. Schumer said the new program will help address the healthcare provider shortage in New York and beyond by easing the visa requirements for physicians who are trained in the U.S. and agree to practice in underserved areas of the Northern Border Region. He said NBRC will recommend the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) waive their “two-year home-country physical presence requirement” for eligible physicians seeking to work at healthcare institutions and practices in New York and other states within the NBRC territory. ""This is just what the doctor ordered to help recruit more highly qualified physicians and a major step to helping address the national healthcare worker shortage we are seeing in rural communities across America and in Upstate NY. Rural communities from Penn Yan to Plattsburgh, know the struggles of healthcare worker shortages all too well. This long awaited initiative will help provide rural and underserved areas across Upstate New York with quality, affordable healthcare by working to address ongoing physician staffing shortages,” said Senator Schumer. “I am proud to have advocated for this program, and to be leading the charge to help the NBRC get the increased support it needs to continue vital programs like this. I will never stop fighting to ensure that every New York community, regardless of its size, has access to the quality medical care it needs.” The NBRC will consider recommending a waiver on behalf of eligible J-1 physicians who will work in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) and Medically Underserved Areas (MUAs). Eligible physicians will work in primary or mental health care for at least three years and 40 hours per week within a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services designated HPSA or MUA of the Northern Border Region. The program is modeled, in part, after the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) successful J-1 Visa waiver program. Schumer has a long history of championing the Northern Border Regional Commission and its positive economic impacts on the North Country and broader Upstate New York regions. Earlier this year, Schumer announced nearly $11 million in federal funding for twelve projects across the North Country and Upstate New York through the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) – the largest annual investment for Upstate NY in the program’s history. The historic increase in funding for the NBRC is a direct result of the funding Schumer was able to deliver in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. In 2021, the senator secured $150 million for the NBRC in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, over triple its funding from previous years. For context on how large the historic nearly $11 million dollar investment in Upstate NY is this year, from 2010-2022, the NBRC invested in over 60 projects totaling over $28 million in investment for Upstate New York. Last year, the NBRC awarded $5.8 million for projects in Upstate NY. The NBRC’s 2023 Catalyst Program is designed to stimulate economic growth and inspire partnerships that improve rural economic vitality across the four-state NBRC region. The Commission made a historic level of funding available through the program this year, with up to $45 million in grants, including up to $20 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that communities across Upstate NY were able to tap. Schumer is currently leading the charge in the Senate to renew the Northern Border Regional Commission’s economic development programs. Schumer introduced the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) Reauthorization Act of 2023 this past February, which would reauthorize the NBRC for another ten years, increase annual authorized funding levels, and target funds to addressing childcare and healthcare needs, supporting housing projects, building climate resilient infrastructure, and combatting the opioid crisis, in addition to the agency’s focus of creating new jobs, promoting business retention and expansion, making critical investment in public infrastructure, and boosting tourism across Upstate New York counties. Established in 2008, the NBRC is a federal-state partnership focused on the economic revitalization of communities across the Northern Border region, which includes New York, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The Commission is composed of the governors of the four Northern Border states and a federal co-chair, and provides financial and technical assistance to communities in the region to support entrepreneurs, improve water, broadband, and transportation infrastructure, and promote other initiatives to improve the region’s economy. The northern border region of New York State includes 28 counties: Cayuga, Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Orleans, Oswego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Seneca, St. Lawrence, Sullivan, Washington, Warren, Wayne, and Yates. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-goldman-nadler-raskin-lead-resolution-condemning-antisemitism,"Representatives Goldman, Nadler, Raskin Lead Resolution Condemning Antisemitism & Call For Implementation of the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism",2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Read the Resolution Here Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Daniel Goldman, Jerrold Nadler, and Jamie Raskin introduced a resolution in response to the alarming rise of antisemitism in the United States. The resolution details the dramatic increase in antisemitic hate crimes over the last few years, particularly following the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas. It also notes the acute rise of antisemitism on college and university campuses. With this resolution, the Members commit to work to implement the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. They call for bipartisan collaboration and a comprehensive, all-of-government response to combat antisemitism in the United States, including, for example, increasing funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. Additionally, Congress must provide robust funding for the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights to help enforce Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and help protect Jewish students from antisemitism. As the resolution makes clear, combating antisemitism is essential to the broader fight against all forms of hatred and to the defense of our democracy. “In the aftermath of Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel on October 7, already rising rates of antisemitism across the country have surged,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “The normalization of antisemitism on our college campuses, on social media, and in our communities is reprehensible and unacceptable. This dangerous increase in anti-Jewish hate requires a comprehensive, bipartisan response. I am proud to join Congressman Nadler and Congressman Raskin in calling for the implementation of President Biden’s National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, to make clear that hate of any kind has no place in the United States.” Congressman Jerrold Nadler said, “All across our country, we are seeing an alarming rise in antisemitic hate following Hamas' October 7 assault on Israel. We cannot allow this to become our new normal, as virulent hatred spreads through college and university campuses, on social media, and in our neighborhoods. With this resolution, Representatives Goldman, Raskin, and I are leading our colleagues in Congress to commit to implementing the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, an essential step to countering this dangerous trend."" Congressman Jamie Raskin said, “Surging global antisemitism—from the terrorist deeds of Hamas to the shocking propaganda of Elon Musk to the violence of extremist white supremacy—is the gateway to destruction of liberal democracy. Opposing antisemitism in all its forms is part of the responsibility of serious democratic citizenship. I’m proud to partner with Representatives Nadler and Goldman to advocate for the robust implementation of comprehensive strategies to stop antisemitism and violence as outlined in the Biden-Harris National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism.” The full text of the resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-meng-fitzpatrick-garbarino-spanberger-and-senator-bennet-renew,"Reps. Meng, Fitzpatrick, Garbarino, Spanberger, And Senator Bennet Renew Bipartisan Push For Snap To Allow Hot Food Purchases",2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Grace Meng,M001188,meng.house.gov,meng,https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Grace Meng (D-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Abigail Spanberger (D-VA), and Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) called for their legislation to be included in the upcoming Farm Bill that would allow the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to cover hot food. In a letter to the Chair and Ranking Members of House and Senate Agriculture Committees, the lawmakers urged the inclusion of their bipartisan, bicameral Hot Foods Act, which would remove an outdated prohibition that prevents families from using SNAP benefits to purchase hot foods such as prepared rotisserie chickens, hot sandwiches, and soups. 42 million Americans benefit from SNAP, a critical federal poverty reduction program. The Farm Bill is taken up by Congress every five years, making this the Hot Foods Act’s best opportunity until 2028 to ensure SNAP recipients can purchase hot, ready-to-eat meals. “Since its enactment 60 years ago, SNAP has prohibited the purchase of hot foods,” said the lawmakers in their letter. “While this restriction may have made sense in the 1970s, when most families were cooking their meals at home, it is no longer an accurate reflection of American families’ dietary or lifestyle needs. During natural disasters, USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service grants waivers to affected counties so that SNAP participants can use their benefits to purchase hot foods when they are unable to prepare food at home. Such waivers demonstrate that the restriction on hot foods is an unnecessary red tape of business owners, program administrators, and American families.” The lawmakers introduced the Hot Foods Act last May. Their correspondence is endorsed by the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC), GRACE, and National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-pushes-feds-for-swift-implementation-of-inflation-reduction-acts-advanced-manufacturing-production-tax-credit-provisions-to-boost-america-made-aluminum-from-companies-like-alcoa-senator-says-updated-guidance-critical-to-leveling-the-playing-field-with-competitors-overseas-and-boosting-aluminum-manufacturing-here-in-america,SCHUMER PUSHES FEDS FOR SWIFT IMPLEMENTATION OF INFLATION REDUCTION ACT’S “ADVANCED MANUFACTURING PRODUCTION TAX CREDIT” PROVISIONS TO BOOST AMERICA-MADE ALUMINUM FROM COMPANIES LIKE ALCOA; SENATOR...,2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Led The Inflation Reduction Act To Passage With NY Manufacturers Like Alcoa In Mind; Now He Is Fighting To Ensure They Can Utilize The Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit To Invest In Industrial Production & Strengthen American Operations Following Meeting with Alcoa Top Execs Earlier This Year, Schumer Wrote To Treasury Secretary Yellen Requesting Guidance Be Finalized For Aluminum Tax Credit Schumer: America’s Future For Industry’s Like Aluminum Should Be In The North Country Not Overseas! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today revealed his push calling on the U.S. Department of Treasury to finalize guidance and swiftly implement on the Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit (AMPTC), a critical provision in the Inflation Reduction Act designed to boost primary aluminum production here in America and protect manufacturers, like the North Country’s Alcoa. Schumer explained that with clear and final guidance, the AMPTC would not only strengthen American supply chains, but also allow aluminum manufacturers like Alcoa to invest in domestic industrial production, strengthen American-based operations, and help level the playing field with competitors overseas. “I championed including the Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit in the Inflation Reduction Act domestic aluminum manufacturers like the North Country’s Alcoa in mind to boost American manufacturing. This vital tax credit has the potential to empower American manufacturers like Alcoa and boost job growth, and advance clean energy innovations throughout New York. Now, I am determined to ensure that companies like Alcoa, boasting the world's longest-operating aluminum smelter right here in NY, can fully leverage the Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit to bolster production and create good-paying jobs,” said Senator Schumer. “This will help leveling the playing field with competitors overseas and strengthen our aluminum manufacturing industry right here in America in places like the North Country. That’s why, after meeting with Alcoa Executives, I personally wrote to Treasury Secretary Yellen requesting clear, finalized guidance on the tax credit to ensure our hardworking aluminum producers can access these vital benefits, and I will keep fighting until they see the benefits they deserve.” “Alcoa appreciates the intent of the Section 45X tax credit for advanced manufacturing and the ongoing work to provide guidance related to aluminum as an eligible critical mineral ,” said Alcoa President and CEO William Oplinger. “The commitments made in the Inflation Reduction Act to re-shoring domestic manufacturing through sound industrial policy will have positive benefits for the production of primary aluminum in the U.S., including at our facility in Massena, NY. This policy can demonstrate the important role that primary aluminum plays in the American economy. We thank Senator Schumer for his leadership on this issue and longtime support of Alcoa’s Massena operations.” The AMPTC provides a production tax credit for the domestic manufacturing of components for solar and wind energy, inverters, battery components, and critical minerals. The credit applies to both equipment and minerals produced and sold in the United States. In doing so, it notably incentivizes the domestic manufacturing of key energy components, including battery production for electric vehicles, blades for wind turbines, and wafers for solar panels, among other inputs, expected to be used by clean energy organizations and facilities seeking to qualify for other tax credits included in the Inflation Reduction Act. Schumer said that the AMPTC is a catalyst that will ultimately bolster the domestic supply chain for vital energy components nationwide. Specifically, Schumer urged the Treasury Department to clearly define aluminum and asked for prompt and clear regulatory guidance on key tax provisions in the IRA so that manufacturers can confidently use the AMPTC. Schumer said, “The intent of including aluminum in the tax credit was to bring aluminum production home and bolster domestic aluminum smelters, which is why it is imperative that aluminum manufacturers are able to effectively utilize the AMPTC.” Earlier this year, Schumer met with Alcoa executives to discuss how aluminum is defined under the AMPTC and committed to ensuring that domestic aluminum manufacturers, like Alcoa, can benefit from the AMPTC. Following the meeting, Schumer personally wrote a letter to Treasury Secretary Yellen requesting that she provide clear guidance with respect to aluminum so domestic aluminum manufacturers can utilize the AMPTC, reshore aluminum production and bolster the current base of domestic aluminum smelters. According to Schumer, clarifying that Congress intended for primary aluminum to be included in the AMPTC is critical for American aluminum companies like Alcoa. Specifically, the clarification will strengthen Alcoa’s operations in Massena to help ensure its future in the North Country by boosting American production of primary Aluminum and leveling the playing field with competitors overseas. Schumer has a long history of fighting to protect Alcoa’s Massena facility and the hundreds of good-paying it provides to North Country labor. In 2015, Schumer fought for and successfully preserved jobs and benefits for 487 employees at Alcoa’s Massena facility. In 2016, Schumer urged the U.S. Trade Representative and Department of Commerce to press China on subsidies for aluminum and steel and enforce current trade laws to protect American manufactures like Alcoa. In 2019, Schumer brokered a deal between Alcoa and the New York State Power Authority, safeguarding Alcoa’s future in the region and hundreds of jobs in Massena. Schumer said that Alcoa’s Massena smelter is both the longest-operating aluminum smelter in the world and the greenest aluminum smelter in the United States thanks to its use of hydropower. As of today, Alcoa produces 130,000 metric tons of capacity at its Massena facility. A copy of Senator Schumer’s letter to Secretary Yellen appears below: Dear Secretary Yellen: I write to express my concerns regarding the prompt implementation and design of guidance for the Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit (AMPTC), a critical part of the Inflation Reduction Act that I fought hard to enact last Congress. The AMPTC will strengthen American supply chains and secure U.S. manufacturing jobs like those in my home state of New York. Timely regulatory guidance on this and other key tax provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act is critical so companies can make confident decisions to invest in industrial production, grow jobs, and advance clean energy innovations here at home. As you develop guidance the AMPTC, it is vital to provide clear guidance with respect to aluminum, one of the eligible critical minerals. The statute requires that aluminum meet one of two conditions of eligibility: either conversion from bauxite to a minimum purity of 99 percent alumina by mass or be purified to 99.9 percent aluminum by mass. The intent of the inclusion of aluminum in the AMPTC was to incentivize both the reshoring of alumina production and to bolster the current base of domestic aluminum smelters. As such, domestically produced aluminum should qualify for this credit, provided it is either high purity (99.9 percent pure, on a pre-alloyed basis), or is of commercial grade (99.7 percent pure, on a pre-alloyed basis) and made from alumina measured at a purity of 99 percent prior to smelting. Aluminum produced to a high purity (99.9 percent pure on a pre-alloy basis) from recycled product (i.e., scrap) should also qualify. I am hopeful that Treasury can, through timely and clear guidance, provide our domestic aluminum manufacturers confidence they can use this credit to strengthen U.S. production. This is of particular importance to New York, as we have the longest-operating aluminum smelter in the world in Massena. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/investing-today-strengthen-communities-generations-come,Investing Today to Strengthen Communities for Generations to Come,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"As the Biden-Harris Administration works to deliver on generational investments in our nation, including the implementation of the American Rescue Plan, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the CHIPS and Science Act, several opportunities will be announced to showcase how these historic laws are changing lives for the better in communities in New York's 13th congressional district and around the nation. Upcoming ""Investing in America"" funding and award announcements will be made starting this week. The the Department of Energy will also rollout an announcement of $275 million for projects to strengthen clean energy supply chains and accelerate domestic clean energy manufacturing in nine former coal communities across the nation. These critical investments from the Biden-Harris Administration impact our communities today and will continue to benefit families for many years to come. This Week: November 27th - December 1st 1. Revitalizing Coal Communities through Expanding Clean Energy Manufacturing Target Date: November 27 Description: The Department of Energy announced $275 million through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for seven projects to accelerate domestic clean energy manufacturing at nine locations in former coal communities across the nation. Each project positions the U.S. to enhance its global competitiveness and national security by building domestic supply chains for existing and emerging technologies, built with American labor and materials. These projects will leverage over $600 million in private sector investments into small- and medium-sized manufacturers and create over 1,400 high-quality, good-paying jobs in cutting edge technologies. This announcement is part of the White House’s Monday supply chain announcement. 2. All Stations Accessibility Program Notice of Funding Opportunity Target Date: November 28 Description: The Department of Transportation announced a $350 million funding opportunity from the All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP). The ASAP program provides funding to upgrade the accessibility of legacy rail fixed guideway public transportation systems (e.g., subway, commuter rail, light rail) for persons with disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs, by increasing the number of existing stations or facilities that are fully accessible. 3. Passenger Ferry Grant Awards Target Date: November 30 Description: The Department of Transportation will announce $220 million in FY2023 awards from the Passenger Ferry Grant Program and Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program. The Passenger Ferry Grant Program provides funding to improve the quality of existing passenger ferry services, support new passenger ferry services and repair and modernize ferry boats, terminals, and related facilities and equipment. The Ferry Service for Rural Communities program provides funding for capital, operating, and planning expenses for ferry service to rural areas. 4. NOAA Climate Science Funding Awards Target Date: November 30 Description: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will award $7.2 million in funding from the Inflation Reduction Act to external partners and NOAA collaborators to improve climate projections that will help communities, businesses and industries better plan for the future. The funding will support 13 projects that will help communities take actions to reduce damage and losses from future weather and climate extremes. Week of December 4th 5. FY24 Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund NOFO Description: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will make available $106 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. The fund was established by Congress in 2000 to reverse the declines of Pacific salmon and steelhead, supporting conservation efforts in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Alaska. This funding will help prevent the extinction of the 28 listed salmon and steelhead species on the West Coast. 6. Emergency Drought Relief for Tribes Description: The Department of Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation will make available $12.5 million from the Inflation Reduction Act to fund near-term drought mitigation actions for Tribes affected by the operation of a Bureau of Reclamation water project. 7. Canal Improvement Projects Description: The Department of Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation will announce awards to design, study, and implement projects to cover canals with solar panels. This practice has the potential to reduce water evaporation, increase renewable energy deployment, and preserve working and natural lands. Spotlight: DOE Announces $275 Million for Projects in Nine Former Coal Communities This week, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced $275 million for seven projects to strengthen clean energy supply chains and accelerate domestic clean energy manufacturing in nine former coal communities across the nation. Each project positions the U.S. to enhance its global competitiveness and national security by building domestic supply chains for existing and emerging technologies, built with American labor and materials. Thanks to the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, these projects will leverage over $600 million in private sector investments into small- and medium-sized manufacturers and create nearly 1,500 high-quality, good-paying jobs in cutting edge technologies. The portfolio of projects will address critical clean energy supply chain vulnerabilities by supporting key materials and components for energy storage for grid and transportation uses, wind energy, and energy efficient solutions for buildings. Click here to learn more. # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-representative-adriano-espaillat-nomination-juan-carlos-iturregui,Statement from Representative Adriano Espaillat on Nomination of Juan Carlos Iturregui to become the U.S. Ambassador to the Dominican Republic,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Today, Rep. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) issued the following statement in support of President Biden’s nomination of Juan Carlos Iturregui to become the next United States ambassador to the Dominican Republic. “Congratulations to Juan Carlos Iturregui on his nomination to the role of Ambassador to the Dominican Republic by President Biden. I have long advocated to the Administration to fill this important role and am excited about Iturregui's selection. ""Juan Carlos has an illustrious background of international and inter-American leadership that will serve him well in strengthening U.S.-D.R. relations, and I urge the Senate to swiftly confirm his nomination."" # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-goldman-expulsion-george-santos-house,Statement from Congressman Dan Goldman on the Expulsion of George Santos from the House of Representatives,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today released the following statement after the House of Representative’s historic vote to expel Congressman George Santos (NY-03) from Congress. Earlier this morning Congressman Goldman was joined by constituents of former Congressman George Santos, the Concerned Citizens of NY-03 to advocate for Santos’ expulsion. Congressman Goldman submitted the original complaint to the Ethics Committee that resulted in the damning 56-page report from the Committee that preceded today’s vote. “For 11 months, House Republicans wrapped their arms around an admitted fraudster, liar, and thief. For the sole reason of protecting their narrow majority, Republican leadership abandoned the people of New York’s Third Congressional District, leaving them without real representation in Congress. “Even today, in the face of mountains of evidence proving George Santos’ gross misconduct, deceptions and outright fraud, Republican leadership, including New York Representative Elise Stefanik, and more than half of House Republicans voted to keep George Santos in Congress. “Despite their best efforts, the Congress of the United States won today. But more importantly, the people of NY-03 will now have a real representative in the House.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-joe-morelle-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-help-prevent,CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO HELP PREVENT MILITARY AND VETERAN SUICIDE,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Joseph D. Morelle,M001206,morelle.house.gov,morelle,https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, DC)—Congressman Joe Morelle, joined by a bipartisan group of colleagues, has introduced a House Resolution to officially recognize the Suicide Awareness and Remembrance (SAR) flag and designate the flag as the nation’s symbol of military and veteran suicide. “It is imperative we take action to ensure the courageous men and women who serve our nation have the essential mental health resources they need and deserve,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “We can stop the underutilization of prevention services by members of the military if we end the stigma associated with mental health treatment. The SAR flag will help achieve this goal by creating awareness and acceptance, while honoring the sacrifices of our servicemembers with a national symbol.” Veteran suicide is a complex issue with many underlying factors including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Encouraging open dialogue, reducing stigma, and improving mental health support can help. In 2021, Congressman Morelle authored The Brandon Act to allow servicemembers to safely seek mental health counseling without notifying their command or opening an official investigation—which was passed as part of the National Defense Authorization Act. It is named for 21-year-old Brandon Caserta, whose death was one of 68 Navy suicides in 2018. His family and fellow sailors attribute this to a toxic leadership environment that left him no recourse for assistance. The flag, primarily inspired by the POW flag, has a black background to represent mourning and a five-point gold star to represent the five branches of the military and a military member who has passed. The memorial wreath has 20 exposed leaves which represent the 20 veterans and active military who die by suicide every day. ""Honor The Fallen"" adorns the bottom of the flag to remind us that we can honor and forever remember these veterans and servicemembers by continuing to raise awareness and never forgetting their service to our country. The flag was created by U.S. Air Force veteran Kevin Hertell. Learn more about the meaning and symbolism behind the flag here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/velazquez-introduces-bipartisan-bill-require-fema-address-challenges-us,Velázquez Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Require FEMA to Address Challenges U.S. Territories Face Recovering from Natural Disasters,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,NY,Nydia M. Velázquez,V000081,velazquez.house.gov,velazquez,https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) introduced the bipartisan Strengthening Capacity for Disaster Resilient Territories Act. This bill would require the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) to create a program to identify and address specific capability gaps and challenges that the U.S. territories (government entities, NGOs, and other grant recipients) experience while conducting recovery activities after a major disaster. “Our territories face numerous inequities because of their status including how the federal government assists these jurisdictions in responding to natural disasters,” said Congresswoman Velázquez. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation, which will help FEMA identify and address the vulnerabilities our territories face and ultimately help the territories better prepare and recover from future natural disasters.” The U.S. territories' geographic, economic, social, and institutional vulnerabilities make them particularly prone to natural disasters. As extreme weather events have increased in frequency and strength, U.S. territories have faced long and difficult disaster recovery processes. The Strengthening Capacity for Disaster Resilient Territories Act would allow FEMA to build on its efforts to bring equity to disaster recovery efforts by creating a new program requiring the administrator to periodically identify the limitations of public and private entities in the U.S. territories in performing recovery activities. Specifically, those activities related to Essential Assistance, Repair, Restoration, and Replacement of Damaged Facilities, Debris Removal, Federal Emergency Assistance, and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Under the bill, the FEMA Administrator would also be required to develop training and best practices to support the administration of recovery projects and help identify disaster recovery shortcomings. This bill is also cosponsored by Reps. Díaz Barragán (D-CA), Torres (D-NY), Vargas (D-CA), Grijalva (D-AZ), Meng (D-NY), Espaillat (D-NY), Al Green (D-TX), Goldman (D-NY), Clarke (D-NY), Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Tlaib (D-MI), Titus (D-NV). Additionally, this legislation is supported by three territorial delegates: González Colón (R-PR), Plaskett (D-USVI), Sablan (D-NMI). This bill is also endorsed by Climate Strong Islands Network, Right to Democracy, and The Resiliency Law Center. For a copy of the bill, click here. “Despite years of relief aid and funds from the federal government, U.S. islands are still not recovering in the wake of strong hurricanes and tropical storms. In the aftermath of Hurricanes María and Fiona in the Caribbean and Typhoon Mawar in the Pacific, U.S. islands remain ill equipped, vulnerable, and severely under prepared for the next, stronger storm. In order to become climate resilient, U.S. islands need a functional and prompt response to any natural disaster with support from the federal government that recognizes the unique challenges islands face. All U.S. islands, including the territories, deserve reliable, expedient, and efficient response after natural disasters. The Climate Strong Islands Network is composed of many community-based non-profits who are already providing on the ground support in the wake of disasters. We encourage FEMA to study and analyze how they can better work with these organizations and support their existing work. We applaud Congresswoman Velázquez for addressing this critical issue and ensuring federal recovery investments are being made in the people and communities of the U.S. Territories. The Strengthening Capacity for Disaster Resilient Territories Act is one step FEMA can take to develop islands’ capacities, decrease reliance on inefficient federal funding mechanisms, and enable U.S. territories to become more resilient in the face of climate change.” — Climate Strong Islands Network “As the only national non-profit organization dedicated to advancing democracy, equity and self-determination for the 3.6 million people in U.S. territories, we believe that this legislation is an important step towards addressing the urgent need for the people and communities living in the territories to have better agency and participation in the planning and implementation of disaster emergency aid and recovery programs. We urge Congress to act swiftly on this legislation.”- Right to Democracy “The Resiliency Law Center, would like to express our strong endorsement and support for the bill that will establish the Strengthening Capacity for Disaster Resilient Territories Act, introduced by Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez. This crucial legislation aims to establish a Territorial Disaster Recovery Program under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to facilitate a more robust disaster recovery process for Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories, promoting a more efficient, equitable, and faster recovery experience.”- The Resiliency Law Center ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-delivers-over-700000-in-fed-funding-for-buffalos-freshfix-to-expand-operations-and-connect-local-farmers-with-more-western-ny-buyers-helping-build-a-robust-and-resilient-local-food-economy-to-reduce-food-insecurity-across-the-region,"SCHUMER DELIVERS OVER $700,000 IN FED FUNDING FOR BUFFALO’S FRESHFIX TO EXPAND OPERATIONS AND CONNECT LOCAL FARMERS WITH MORE WESTERN NY BUYERS— HELPING BUILD A ROBUST AND RESILIENT LOCAL FOOD ECONOMY...",2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Says Fed Funding Will Help Buffalo-Based FreshFix Expand Regional Food Hub To Support Small Farmers, Local Food Businesses, And Nonprofits In WNY FreshFix Has Been Supporting Local And Regional Farmers Since 2016 – Now, Fed $$$ Will Fuel Expansion To Serve New Wholesale Markets, Such As Restaurants, Small Retailers, Nonprofits And Other Small Food Businesses Schumer: Fed $$$ Will Plant The Seeds For FreshFix To Supply The Food Future Of Buffalo! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced $732,597 in federal funding for Buffalo’s FreshFix through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service to expand operations and help connect more local farmers, producers with Western New York buyers, such as restaurants, small retailers, nonprofits and other small food businesses working to address food insecurity in Western New York. “People deserve easy access to fresh, healthy locally grown affordable food from here in Western New York. That’s why I’m proud to deliver this USDA investment to help Buffalo’s FreshFix expand their operations – a win-win supporting farmers and producers, and bolstering local food businesses and nonprofits working to address food insecurity in the region,” said Senator Schumer. “Buffalo’s FreshFix has been growing their operations since 2016, helping integrate locally grown produce for home delivery to retail customers, nonprofits, and small food businesses. These federal dollars will help the organization create an even more robust and resilient local food economy that keeps local farmers and producers connected to Western NY buyers, ensuring a fresh and sustainable food future for Buffalo families.” “We work with over 40 small local farmers throughout the year for our retail operation,” said Joshua Bowen, FreshFix Co-Founder. “In talking to these farmers every week, we were seeing a gap in local food aggregation and marketing for small farmers and felt that we could help fill it.” “The project was originally driven by our nonprofit partners, specifically mobile markets who face significant challenges procuring smaller quantities of local food at wholesale prices,” said Dr. Lucia Leone, Associate Professor of Community Health and Health Behavior at the University at Buffalo and FreshFix Co-Founder. “Being recognized as a 2023 Local Food Promotion Program awardee by the USDA is an honor and validation to our team’s commitment to supporting local agriculture and cultivating a stronger, more equitable food system.” Schumer explained that FreshFix has been supporting local and regional farmers since 2016 through aggregating, distributing, and marketing of local food to retail customers in WNY. Currently, the organization partners with local farmers to deliver farm fresh foods to customers, but the expanded food hub will be aimed at improving access to healthy and affordable foods to underserved communities in Western New York. The FreshFix Food Hub is currently located in the Niagara Frontier Food Terminal building, which was originally built in the 1930s and used as a food distribution hub for Buffalo residents. The federal investment will be used to subsidize the cost of wholesale aggregation, allowing new buyers access to the locally grown food from small farmers and help small farmers increase their capacity for selling wholesale. Schumer said that currently, many food distributors in Western New York only work with a handful of local farmers but feel that the overall market is somewhat disjointed and sporadic. In many cases, smaller farms do not have the experience and capability to properly handle invoicing, and they do not have the time for more flexible deliveries throughout the week. Other larger distributors can’t accept the smaller volumes of food that local farms offer and often have minimum order requirements. Schumer said with this federal investment, FreshFix will help fix these issues by giving local distributors access to a centralized food hub that specifically focuses on local farm purchases and manages the logistics of working with multiple sellers – ultimately allowing buyers to access to more farms throughout Western NY and addressing a need for streamlined food aggregation and distribution for small farmers and buyers. To ensure success, FreshFix will train and provide supplies to farmers and coordinate a campaign to promote locally grown food to consumers. This federal funding is in partnership with the University at Buffalo’s Veggie Van Training Center (VVTC) and the Massachusetts Avenue Project (MAP). The VVTC will work with FreshFix to provide technical assistance to nonprofits on developing food insecurity programming. FreshFix will also work with partners including the University at Buffalo to provide evaluation, partnership development, campaign tracking, and technical assistance to nonprofits on developing food insecurity programming, as well as recruiting entrepreneurs to create value-added products using excess produce, thereby reducing farm waste. Schumer has been a strong advocate for addressing food insecurity in Western New York. Last year, Schumer secured $2 million to expand FeedMore WNY’s facility in the omnibus end-of-year spending package for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023. This funding covered a large-scale expansion to more than double the current capacity and office space, allowing for FeedMore WNY to significantly bolster their operations, boost productivity, and improve logistics, all with a focus on helping to better combat hunger in Western NY. Additionally, just last week, Schumer announced over $40 million for food organizations across the state through the USDA funded New York Food for New York Families program with Governor Hochul, including $2 million for FeedMore and millions more for other Western NY food organizations and school districts. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/espaillat-barrag%C3%A1n-menendez-issue-joint-statement-response-proposed-threats,"Espaillat, Barragán, Menendez Issue Joint Statement In Response to Proposed Threats to Supplemental Funding for Asylum Seekers",2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Representatives Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and Rob Menendez (NJ-08), co-chairs of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Border and Immigration Task Force, and CHC Chair Nanette Barragán (CA-44) issued the following statement in response to the proposed threats to the asylum system in the forthcoming supplemental aid package: “As Co-Chairs of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Border and Immigration Task Force, we are strongly opposed to any potential measures in a rushed border supplemental that would permanently restrict asylum access for immigrants,” said the Members. “We are deeply troubled by recent reports of the Senate’s inclusion of such measures in its forthcoming supplemental appropriations bill—especially during a time of escalating violence and poverty in our hemisphere. Any changes to our country’s decades-old asylum laws which seek to deny life-saving asylum access and legal protections for immigrants and their families are a non-starter and categorically unacceptable. We urge the Senate to adhere to the views of Members who represent the immigrants that would be most significantly and negatively impacted by any restrictive and burdensome changes to our asylum system. We must keep these deeply harmful provisions out of any forthcoming supplemental appropriations package.” # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-goldman-frozen-iranian-humanitarian-funds-and,Statement from Congressman Dan Goldman on Frozen Iranian Humanitarian Funds and Support for President Biden in Hostage Negotiations,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“On October 7th, Hamas terrorists carried out the single most horrific attack against Jews that this world has seen since the Holocaust. They did so with the support and backing of leaders and government officials in Iran. “In the aftermath of Hamas’ brutal torture, rape, and murder of innocent civilians, President Biden worked with our Qatari allies to ensure that the $6 billion sitting in a restricted account for humanitarian purchases remains inaccessible to Iran. Not a single cent of these funds has ever been touched by the Iranian government, nor will they ever be touched by a government that supports Hezbollah and Hamas terrorists. “The $6 billion designated for humanitarian aid to the Iranian people was just one part of a complicated agreement between the Biden administration Iran to return five American hostages. “While Iran must face consequences for its role in the devastation in Israel, H.R. 5961 would do nothing to achieve this goal. The Administration has made explicitly clear that Iran will not see this money, and I am satisfied by this assurance, rendering this bill superfluous and unnecessary. “Yet this bill effectively allows Congress to swoop in after the fact to change the terms of an agreement delicately reached by the Administration under its foreign policy authorities. If passed, this legislation would have the detrimental, long-term effect of undermining the credibility of the United States in future negotiations with foreign adversaries, thus making it more difficult to bring American hostages home.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4034,Tonko Spotlights Constituent Stories of Children’s Vaccine Access Problems During Hearing,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Paul D. Tonko questioned the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) during a House Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee hearing today and highlighted constituent voices who had shared their struggles accessing RSV and other vaccines to protect their infants and young children. During his questions, Tonko referenced a letter he recently sent CDC alongside his two colleagues, Congresswoman Kim Schrier and Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo — both of whom are pediatricians — calling on the agency to address this issue and ensure that Americans have the resources they need to protect their children and loved ones. Listen to Rep. Tonko’s remarks HERE and see below as prepared for delivery. Seasonal RSV typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms, but in some cases the virus can cause serious illness and hospitalization. Infants and young children are at a particularly high risk of serious illness from RSV infection. This is the first year there’s an RSV vaccine for the youngest children, which is an incredible advancement. Dr. Cohen, what do parents need to know about the current RSV season and what steps can they take to keep their kids healthy? In my district, I know that parents have heard CDC’s message to get their children vaccinated and there is high demand. Unfortunately, parents in my district are having trouble finding the vaccine due to shortages, which I know CDC is aware of. I also am hearing from many constituents about access issues for COVID-19 vaccines for children under three years old. For example, Heather from Delmar, New York, contacted me and shared that she had been trying to find a vaccine for her two-year-old child, but there were no available options. The closest location that would offer the vaccine to children under three was nearly two hours away in Hartford, Connecticut. I’m also hearing about access issues for the RSV immunization for children and pregnant individuals. A mother from Albany, New York shared that her toddler has asthma and is considered at a more severe risk for infection complications, yet the immunization is not available locally for her son. In response to these calls from constituents I reached out to two of my colleagues here in Congress who are both pediatricians: Congresswoman Schrier and Congresswoman Caraveo. They shared my concern for the health and well-being of many of our youngest and most vulnerable constituents. With that in mind, this week we joined together to send a letter to CDC on pediatric vaccine access. M. Chair, I’d like to enter this letter for the record. I look forward to a complete response to this letter, but in the meantime, I have a few questions for you specific to the RSV vaccine. Dr. Cohen, how is CDC working with FDA and manufacturers to respond to the shortage of pediatric RSV vaccines? Looking ahead, is there anything that Congress should be doing now to help alleviate current and future pediatric RSV vaccine shortages?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/statements-from-the-seventh-bipartisan-senate-forum-on-artificial-intelligence,Statements From The Seventh Bipartisan Senate Forum On Artificial Intelligence,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Todd Young (R-IN) hosted a seventh AI Insight Forum focused transparency, explainability, intellectual property, and copyright. Below are the statements made at the forum: U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) Opening Statement Closing Statement Rick Beato, Musician Ben Brooks, Stability AI Mike Capps, Howso Danielle Coffey, News Media Alliance Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA Ali Farhadi, Allen Institute for AI Zach Graves, Foundation for American Innovation Vanessa Holtgrewe, IATSE Mounir Ibrahim, Truepic Dennis Kooker, Sony Music Entertainment Curtis LeGeyt, National Association of Broadcasters Riley McCormack, DigiMarc Cynthia Rudin, Duke University Jon Schleuss, NewsGuild Ben Sheffner, Motion Picture Association Navrina Singh, Credo AI Ziad Sultan, Spotify Andrew Trask, OpenMined",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-adriano-espaillats-statement-release-hostages-and-humanitarian,Representative Adriano Espaillat's Statement on the Release of Hostages and Humanitarian Pause,2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Adriano Espaillat,E000297,espaillat.house.gov,espaillat,https://espaillat.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -- Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) issued the following statement in response to the humanitarian pause in Gaza. ""I am grateful for President Biden’s steadfast leadership amid the Israel-Hamas war and for his dedicated perseverance to bring home 50 individuals who had been held hostage since the October 7th attack, including four-year-old Abigail Mor Edan, the youngest American girl held by Hamas terrorists. Through these efforts, the Biden Administration helped usher this humanitarian pause and extension to allow much needed relief and critical aid to innocent Palestinian civilians in Gaza and permit ongoing negotiations safely. As we continue to urge for the safe return of the remaining 200 hostages, including several Americans, we must do all that it takes to ensure their safe return and reunification with their families. Violence and crimes of hate must never be tolerated, and we have witnessed an unprecedented rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia here in the U.S. I was deeply saddened by the senseless targeted attack of three college students of Palestinian descent that occurred over this past weekend, and others who have been violently targeted. As we move forward, I vow to continue my efforts in collaboration with the Biden Administration and my congressional colleagues to help bring all of the remaining hostages, including the nine Americans, home safely, and to further the ongoing much needed humanitarian pause to allow aid and resources to Gaza and continued diplomacy to help stabilize the region. # # # Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-continues-fight-eliminate-predatory-junk-fees-renters,Congressman Dan Goldman Continues Fight to Eliminate Predatory Junk Fees for Renters,2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"‘End Junk Fees for Renters Act’ Would Bring Relief to Millions of Renters Burdened by Surprise, Hidden Fees Read the Bill Here Washington D.C. – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Congressmen Maxwell Frost (FL-10) and Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) to introduce the ‘End Junk Fees for Renters Act’, that would end the growing number of excessive and predatory junk fees that increase costs for renters nationwide. Unnecessary fees like exorbitant application fees, screening fees, credit check fees, and late fees threaten families’ ability to obtain affordable housing. In New York City, the average monthly rent is $5,158 and $3,909 in Manhattan and Brooklyn respectively, a 22 percent and 13 percent increase from February 2020 levels, before the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearly half of New Yorkers pay over 30 percent of their income on rent and nearly a quarter report that over half of their income goes to rent payments. “New York City is in the midst of a severe rental crisis while corporate landlords rake in record profits by artificially inflating the cost of rent with exorbitant junk fees,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “As housing costs skyrocket, we must do everything possible to eliminate hidden costs that exacerbate this problem. We cannot allow New Yorkers to be nickel and dimed out of the city and must make sure New York remains an affordable option for everyone.” The ‘End Junk Fees for Renters Act’ would: Crack down on junk fees by banning application and screening fees; Put an end to late fee profiteering by requiring late fees apply as credit to next month’s rent; Prohibit credit score screening in the rental application process; Require that landlords disclose in the rental contract: Past and present litigation with tenants; Ongoing pest and maintenance issues; Rent increase percentages year after year over the last ten years; and The total amount that will be due each month, which will put an end to surprise fees. Help consumers comparison shop and make more informed choices when it comes to renting, inevitably driving down overall costs in the rental market and improving living conditions. Congressman Goldman is committed to supporting New York’s working families by ensuring they have access to safe, quality, affordable housing. Earlier this week, Congressman Goldman sent a letter to New York Attorney General Letitia James calling for her office to investigate the multinational, multi-billion-dollar company RealPage Inc., which has been accused of anticompetitive behavior and manipulating market rent rates through their price optimization software, YieldStar. As one of his first acts in Congress, Representative Goldman and Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) introduced the ‘Public Housing Emergency Response Act.’ This bill would allocate $70 billion in funding forcapital repairs and upgrades to public housing throughout the country. $32 billion of the allotted aid would be expected to flow directly to the New York City Housing Authority, the nation’s largest Public Housing Authority. Additionally, the Congressman cosponsored the 'Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act' to expand and strengthen the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and spur collaboration between private-sector resources and state-level government administration to build and rehabilitate millions of affordable homes across the country. Congressman Goldman is also founding member of the Congressional Renter’s Caucus which will work to expand assistance for all eligible cost-burdened renters, eliminate bureaucratic and discriminatory barriers to accessing affordable housing; and improve the quality, availability, and affordability of our nation’s rental housing stock. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-urges-new-york-attorney-general-investigate-potential,"Congressman Dan Goldman Urges New York Attorney General to Investigate Potential Rental Market Manipulation and Price Gouging by Realpage, Inc.",2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"RealPage’s Price Optimization Software Recommends Artificially Inflated Rent Prices, Potentially Incentivizes Market Manipulation and Anti-Competitive Landlord Behavior RealPage Clients Include Many of Largest NYC Landlords; Potential Contributor to Housing Affordability Crisis in New York Read the Letter Here New York, NY – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today sent a letter to New York Attorney General Letitia James calling for her office to investigate the multinational, multi-billion dollar company RealPage Inc., which has been accused of anticompetitive behavior and manipulating market rent rates through their price optimization software, YieldStar. YieldStar analyzes non-public rental data from RealPage’s multitude of clients to recommend artificially inflated rent prices, facilitating pricing collusion and eliminating traditional market competition. RealPage is a Texas-based company whose stated goal is to help “owners, operators, property managers and investors unlock value faster and achieve peak performance…” Their clients include some of New York City’s largest landlords and property managers, including Equity Residential, Greystar, and Cushman & Wakefield. “As the dire need for affordable housing continues to grow in New York City, I urge you to investigate the multinational company RealPage Inc., which has been accused of anticompetitive behavior and manipulating market rent rates through their price optimization software,” Congressman Dan Goldman wrote. “A number of New York’s largest landlords are among RealPage’s clients and potential benefactors from this possible anticompetitive price-fixing.” In New York City, the average monthly rent is $5,158 and $3,909 in Manhattan and Brooklyn respectively, a 22 percent and 13 percent increase from February 2020 levels, before the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearly half of New Yorkers pay over 30 percent of their income on rent and nearly a quarter report that over half of their income goes to rent payments. “There is clearly broad interest in holding bad actors accountable for using anticompetitive practices in the rental market in the United States,” Congressman Dan Goldman continued. “Their abhorrent behavior favors profits over affordability for the many low- and moderate-income families in our cities and neighborhoods desperate for reasonably priced housing. This is an issue that is particularly acute in my Tenth Congressional District in New York, where rent prices continue to grow at a rate that far outpaces what residents can afford.” RealPage has recently come under intense scrutiny during the current affordable housing crisis. Both the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Trade Commission have been asked to investigate and review the use of RealPage’s price optimization software. State Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb in the District of Columbia has filed a lawsuit against RealPage, alleging anti-trust rental market manipulation. There were also over 20 private civil lawsuits filed in the state of Tennessee that have since been consolidated. The DOJ has filed a memorandum in Tennessee in support of these lawsuits. Congressman Goldman is committed to supporting New York’s working families by ensuring they have access to safe, quality, affordable housing. As one of his first acts in Congress, Goldman and Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) introduced the ‘Public Housing Emergency Response Act.’ This bill would allocate $70 billion in funding for capital repairs and upgrades to public housing throughout the country. $32 billion of the allotted aid would be expected to flow directly to the New York City Housing Authority, the nation’s largest Public Housing Authority. Additionally, the Congressman cosponsored the 'Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act' to expand and strengthen the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and spur collaboration between private-sector resources and state-level government administration to build and rehabilitate millions of affordable homes across the country. Congressman Goldman is also founding member of the Congressional Renter’s Caucus which will work to expand assistance for all eligible cost-burdened renters, eliminate bureaucratic and discriminatory barriers to accessing affordable housing; and improve the quality, availability, and affordability of our nation’s rental housing stock. Read the letter here or below: Dear Attorney General James, As the dire need for affordable housing continues to grow in New York City, I urge you to investigate the multinational company RealPage Inc., which has been accused of anticompetitive behavior and manipulating market rent rates through their price optimization software. A number of New York’s largest landlords are among RealPage’s clients and potential benefactors from this possible anticompetitive price-fixing. RealPage Inc. is a Texas-based company whose stated goal is to help “owners, operators, property managers and investors unlock value faster and achieve peak performance…”, and in 2021 the company was valued at $10.2 billion. Among their suite of products is a software tool targeted to landlords which analyzes large swaths of rental data from competitors operating in the same market and recommends artificially inflated rent prices based on non-public pricing information. In fact, their website boasts that they can help clients “achieve a 3% - 7% revenue lift.” This tool, dubbed YieldStar, is particularly dangerous because it relies on unfiltered access to a market’s competitive data set. Moreover, in 2017, RealPage completed a merger with their largest pricing competitor, Lease Rent Options (LRO), making them a preeminent price optimization provider. Included in their long list of clients are some of New York City’s largest landlords and property managers, including Equity Residential, Greystar, and Cushman & Wakefield. RealPage now has unprecedented access to public and private landlord data in New York City, which facilitates pricing collusion and eliminates traditional market competition. An investigation by ProPublica in 2017 revealed that “RealPage discourages bargaining with renters and has even recommended that landlords in some cases accept a lower occupancy rate in order to raise rents and make more money.” The report also noted that as many as 90% of suggestions made to apartment managers through the YieldStar product are adopted. In New York City, rent prices have become an increasingly overwhelming burden for renters, with new leases averaging $5,158 and $3,909 in Manhattan and Brooklyn, respectively. Those numbers reflect a 22% and 13% increase from February 2020 levels. With rents skyrocketing in New York, I urge you to investigate how RealPage may have contributed to this situation through their anti-competitive pricing behavior. Further, RealPage has been the target of scrutiny by lawmakers across the country. In November 2022, Senators Klobuchar, Durbin and Booker wrote to Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter at the Department of Justice (DOJ), asking the Antitrust Division to open an investigation into RealPage. That same month, Chairman Sherrod Brown of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs committee sent a letter to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Lina Khan, asking her to review the use of “price optimization software employed by property owners to set rents,” specifically citing YieldStar. A group of members from the House, led by Congressman Jesús G. “Chuy” García, also wrote to both the DOJ and the FTC echoing the Senators’ sentiments. In addition, there have also been a number of lawsuits filed against RealPage including one filed by Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb in the District of Columbia, and one in Tennessee that combines over 20 suits filed against the company. On November 6th, 2023, the DOJ officially filed a memorandum with the Tennessee case in support of the antitrust lawsuits filed against RealPage. There is clearly broad interest in holding bad actors accountable for using anticompetitive practices in the rental market in the United States. Their abhorrent behavior favors profits over affordability for the many low- and moderate-income families in our cities and neighborhoods desperate for reasonably priced housing. This is an issue that is particularly acute in my Tenth Congressional District in New York, where rent prices continue to grow at a rate that far outpaces what residents can afford. I therefore urge you to investigate RealPage and its clients for further evidence of anti-competitive, anti-consumer behavior in New York State. Thank you for your consideration. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-dan-goldman-greg-landsman-introduce-resolution-condemning-calls,"Congressmen Dan Goldman, Greg Landsman Introduce Resolution Condemning Calls from Members of Congress to Expel Palestinians from the United States",2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Read the Resolution Here Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congressman Greg Landsman (OH-01) today introduced a resolution condemning calls from members of Congress to expel Palestinians from the United States. This resolution follows the introduction of H.R. 6211 by Congressman Ryan Zinke – legislation that has been promoted as an effort to “Expel Palestinians from the United States.” “Calls to expel Palestinians from the United States are racist, xenophobic and have no place in the government of the United States,"" Congressman Dan Goldman said. ""We cannot stand for rhetoric that fans the flames of hate in this nation. The anti-American proposal to expel an entire people from this country must be condemned.” Congressman Greg Landsman said, “They’re trying to expel an entire community of people from the United States. It’s un-American. It’s not who we are. And it’s going to get people hurt. We need these folks to pull back on this dangerous rhetoric and to stop adding fuel to this fire. It’s not helping the Israelis, it’s certainly not helping the Palestinians, it’s absolutely undercutting our role in pursuing peace and stability in the region and here at home.” The resolution reads, in part: “Whereas this rhetoric calls for the removal of an entire people from our nation . . . [U]nfairly and dangerously conflates Palestinians with Hamas and its actions . . . [I]mplies immigrants are a danger to America – ignoring our nation’s long history of welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds . . . [I]s un-American, bigoted, and is designed to inflame tensions which could result in violence: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives – Condemns calls from Members of Congress for the expulsion of Palestinians from the United States.” The full text of Congressman Goldman and Congressman Landsman’s resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-robert-garcia-dan-goldman-move-force-vote-resolution-expel-george,"Congressmen Robert Garcia, Dan Goldman Move to Force a Vote on Resolution to Expel George Santos from House of Representatives",2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) and Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today called up their previous resolution to expel Congressman George Santos (NY-03) from Congress as a privileged resolution, forcing House Republican leadership to schedule a vote on his expulsion within 48 hours. This resolution follows the conclusion of the House Ethics Committee’s investigation and subsequent release of their report, which concluded that George Santos defrauded his donors, filed false FEC reports, and repeatedly broke the law in order to fraudulently win his election last November. Congressman Garcia and Congressman Goldman had originally introduced their resolutions to expel Santos in February and August respectively – House Republicans overwhelmingly voted to refer the resolutions back to the House Ethics Committee in their efforts to protect Santos from expulsion. Congressman Robert Garcia said, “The time has finally come to remove George Santos from Congress. If we’re going to restore faith in government, we must start with restoring integrity in the U.S. House of Representatives. It is essential for the American people to have Representatives they can trust and who don’t build their careers on deceit and falsehoods. We have once again forced an expulsion vote on the House floor because enough is enough.” “George Santos is an admitted liar, fraud, and cheat, and the recent Ethics Committee report confirms what we’ve long known: George Santos is wholly unfit for public office,"" Congressman Dan Goldman said. “Today, I am once again calling for him to be expelled from Congress, as I have since the first day his lies were uncovered. Republicans no longer have any fictional excuse to protect Santos in order to preserve their narrow majority – to continue to do so would be a disgrace to the institution. It is time for the people of NY-03 to have real representation, and that starts with the immediate removal of George Santos.” Since early this year, Congressmen Garcia and Goldman have led the charge in calling for accountability for Santos’ numerous ethics violations. At the start of the 118th Congress, Congressman Goldman and Congressman Torres filed the original complaint with the House Committee on Ethics calling for an investigation into Congressman Santos in January for violating the Ethics in Government Act by failing to file timely, accurate, and complete financial disclosure reports as required by law. Additionally, Congressman Goldman and Congressman Torres introduced the ‘SANTOS Act’ to require that candidates for Congress file additional biographical information with the Federal Elections Commission. Knowingly and willfully providing false information would be punishable by a fine, prison, or both. In June, Congressman Goldman demanded an update on the House Ethics Committee’s interim findings in their investigation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-goldman-hunter-bidens-offer-testify-publicly,Statement from Congressman Dan Goldman on Hunter Biden’s Offer to Testify Publicly Before the Oversight Committee,2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“Rather than run and hide from a subpoena like Donald Trump, Jim Jordan and House Republicans do, Hunter Biden has offered to testify in public, under oath, so the American people can see for themselves what he has to say. “Chairman Comer and House Oversight Republicans have a deeply troubling track record of manipulating closed-door witness testimony to mislead and gaslight the American public with disinformation about President Biden. Given the abject failure of the first and only public ‘impeachment’ hearing, it is therefore no surprise that Chairman Comer does not want the American people to hear directly from Hunter Biden and instead wants to control what the public learns of his testimony. “Sunlight is the best disinfectant, and Chairman Comer has an obligation to be transparent with the American people. If the evidence to support his baseless assertions exists, then he should have no fear of the American people seeing it for themselves, unvarnished and unmanipulated. “If Chairman Comer insists on hiding his work behind closed doors and refuses to accept Hunter Biden's offer to testify publicly, then he is explicitly acknowledging that Hunter Biden's testimony will expose this bogus ‘impeachment inquiry’ for the politically motivated, baseless sham that it is.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-fights-protect-childrens-mental-health,Congressman Dan Goldman Fights to Protect Children’s Mental Health,2023-11-27,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Children Nationwide Suffering from Increased Levels of Mental Illness After the COVID-19 Pandemic ‘Helping Kids Cope Act’ Would Invest in Pediatric Behavioral Health Care and Community-Based Mental Health Programs Read the Bill Here Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-AL) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) to introduce the bipartisan ‘Helping Kids Cope Act’ to support pediatric behavioral health care initiatives and community-based programs in the face of the growing pediatric mental health crisis. The bill would authorize grants to improve the coordination and integration of pediatric behavioral health services across the country. ""The COVID-19 pandemic took a significant toll on our children’s wellbeing,” Congressman Goldman said.“When our children suffer, our country suffers. We have an obligation to address the damage COVID-19 did to our children’s mental health, an undertaking that will only get more difficult the longer we wait, by ensuring that every child has access to the care they need during this critical period in their life.” The Helping Kids Cope Act will increase children’s access to care via telehealth treatment, crisis responses, behavioral health urgent care centers in children’s hospitals and advocacy centers – especially those in under-resourced communities. Further, grants would improve the collection of demographic data on adolescents’ mental health needs to identify gaps in children’s access to care as well as support members of the pediatric behavioral health workforce by providing funding for training and other workforce innovations. Earlier this year, Congressman Goldman supported the 'Mental Health Workforce and Language Access Act' to provide grants for mental health professionals who are fluent in a language other than English. The Congressman also cosponsored the ‘SNAP Access for Medically Vulnerable Children Act’ to expand SNAP benefits for families with chronically sick children, helping to alleviate the tremendous emotional and financial struggles involved with caring for sick children. Congressman Dan Goldman is also a founding member of the Congressional Dads Caucus. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-goldman-release-hostages-and-required-conditions-end,Statement from Congressman Dan Goldman on the Release of Hostages and Required Conditions to End Hostilities Between Israel and Hamas,2023-11-27,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“I am grateful for President Biden’s skillful leadership and diplomacy in securing a critical pause in Gaza to allow for several dozen of the more than 200 innocent babies, children, mothers and elderly to be released to their families after seven weeks in traumatic captivity following their illegal abduction by Hamas on October 7. Critically, this pause also paved the way for a massive influx of desperately needed humanitarian aid into Gaza, and included the release of three times more Palestinian prisoners in Israel who were charged or convicted of serious crimes. “Having met with numerous family members of Israeli hostages in recent weeks, I am so happy and relieved for those who have received their loved ones from captivity in Gaza. Like so many others, I am resolutely focused on ending the violence against, and displacement of, civilians in Gaza. While I’m encouraged that this pause will continue in the coming days to allow for additional hostages to be released and more aid to be delivered, this is not a time for unbridled celebration. Rather, this is simply a much-belated start down the pathway toward a conclusion to this war brutally initiated by Hamas on October 7. “On October 6, a ‘mutual and unconditional ceasefire’ existed between Israel and Hamas dating back to May 2021. On October 7, Hamas, a Designated Terrorist Organization akin to ISIS, savagely attacked Israel, brutally raping, torturing and murdering approximately 1,200 Israelis and illegally abducting more than 200 civilians, including 33 children and citizens of more than 40 countries, most of whom remain in captivity in Gaza more than seven weeks later. Since the October 7 massacre, Hamas leaders have expressly stated a determination to attack Israel until they achieve their objective of eliminating Israel and killing all Jews. Put simply, Hamas’s continued existence is incompatible with peace for both Israel and the Palestinian people. “Recognizing this reality, any call for ceasefire that does not address the permanent and unacceptable threat posed by Hamas in the region is in fact a call for unilateral disarmament by Israel. A resolution that would allow for the end of hostilities must not only include the release of all illegally-abducted Israeli hostages but also the full military and political surrender by Hamas and its removal from Gaza. “Unless those conditions are met, the United States must continue to support Israel’s just and legitimate defense of its borders and its people against a terrorist enemy dedicated to its annihilation. This support must include urgent supplemental aid to Israel without conditions, as requested by President Biden, so that we can unite in support of our close ally without any domestic political brinksmanship.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-after-launching-push-in-jamestown-earlier-this-year-epa-has-heeded-his-calls-to-demolish-and-clean-up-jamestowns-old-contaminated-crawford-furniture-factory-following-fire_removing-an-eyesore-and-helping-return-the-site-to-productive-use-for-the-community,"SCHUMER ANNOUNCES, AFTER LAUNCHING PUSH IN JAMESTOWN EARLIER THIS YEAR, EPA HAS HEEDED HIS CALLS TO DEMOLISH AND CLEAN UP JAMESTOWN’S OLD CONTAMINATED CRAWFORD FURNITURE FACTORY FOLLOWING FIRE —...",2023-11-27,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Jamestown’s Old Crawford Furniture Factory, A Site With Known Hazardous Contamination, Went Up In Flames Late Last Year; Schumer Immediately Came To Jamestown To Lead Charge To Bolster Fed’s Presence At Site, Calling On EPA To Take Action And Help Remove Toxic Debris Now Feds Are Heeding Schumer’s Calls And Will Remove What Remains Of The Structures Destroyed By The Fire and Remove Toxic Asbestos-Containing Debris Ensuring Site Does Not Remain Hazard To The Community And Helping Crumbling Property Become Potential Site Of New Opportunity Schumer: EPA Has Heeded My Calls, Clean Up Starts TODAY For Jamestown’s Old Crawford Furniture Factory After standing in Jamestown earlier this year to launch push to get feds to help clean up the old Crawford Furniture Factory, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has heeded his calls and is officially beginning clean up the hazardous site. After a dangerous fire late last year, that potentially put public health at risk for the community, Schumer came to Jamestown to launch his push for feds to help take financial burden off local taxpayers and help remove hazardous materials at the site and demolish the eyesore so it could potentially become a site for new opportunity. The senator said that following his continued advocacy the EPA is now beginning demolition of the former manufacturing facility at the Allen Street Development Site – knocking down, cleaning up damaged buildings and disposing of toxic asbestos from the deteriorating facility. “The old Crawford Furniture Factory was once a beating heart for Jamestown’s economy, but for too long, this crumbling building sat as an eyesore, and as last year’s fire showed, its continued presence would only put our public health and environment at risk. That is why I personally came to Jamestown to push the EPA to demolish this dangerous site, and why I am proud to announce that cleanup begins today for Jamestown” said Senator Schumer. “This federal cleanup is a win-win-win: knocking down the crumbling walls which were devastated by the fire, removing toxic contaminants like asbestos from our community, all while taking the burden off our local taxpayers in Jamestown. The EPA has been a tremendous partner and I thank them for their dedicated work to knock down this deteriorating building so that it can be transformed into a place of new opportunity. It is critical to return these marred sites of the past into productive workplaces that will shape the economic future, and I will continue to fight to deliver the resources needed to breathe new life into Jamestown’s manufacturing legacy for the next generation.” Schumer explained the importance of the EPA’s presence at the site, which will help clean up the toxic debris swiftly without burdening the local taxpayers. The necessary cleanup at the Allen Street site was projected to be a significant financial burden to the City of Jamestown, and beyond their current resources, making it imperative to secure EPA aid to help clean up this site and protect neighboring businesses and homes. Schumer first visited the site this past January and outlined his plan, which called for the EPA to bolster their presence at the site and coordinate with Jamestown to bring all resources to bare to ensure the continued safety of the community, now demolition is finally beginning. With EPA involvement, clean up can finally proceed knocking down damaged buildings, disposing asbestos and asbestos-containing debris, and decontaminating materials from the site that can be set aside for recycling. The former Crawford Furniture Factory property located at 1061 Allen Street in Jamestown was once part of the areas rich historical legacy as the “Furniture Capital of the World.” Historical records indicate the site had been developed and used for industrial uses since 1883, and based on the age and industrial processes uses at the building it was possible asbestos and other chemicals were present at the site. The current owner had abandoned the facility, and according Jamestown, the property has been tax delinquent since 2018. In November of 2022, the building went up in flames, risking the releases of possibly hazardous substances posing a potential threat to public health and safety. The local fire department extinguished the fire, but it had destroyed the majority of the facility as fire crews worked to prevent the fire from spreading to neighboring businesses. While Jamestown followed every precaution necessary to mitigate any potential threat after the fire, EPA attention was necessary as they pursued efforts to clean up the site. Schumer said that the cleanup of these legacy industrial sites is especially important to maximize the economic and environmental recovery of our most vulnerable communities like those in Western NY. Schumer said during the demolition activities expected to begin this week, the EPA will evaluate and properly dispose of hazardous substances and have them shipped to regulated landfill and disposal facilities. The EPA will also monitor the air quality at the site and surrounding neighborhood during demolition to ensure that the public and workers are safe during all demolition activities. A copy of Schumer’s original letter to the EPA appears below: Dear Administrator Regan: I write to urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to bolster its presence at Jamestown’s former Crawford Furniture Factory site in order to conduct a thorough investigation and expeditiously provide federal resources for removal action under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Over the course of its history the former Crawford Furniture Factory site has been used for various industrial and manufacturing uses. Due to the site’s history, it has a known presence of hazardous substances such acetone, toluene, chromium and asbestos. On November 16, 2022, the situation was made even worse when a fire destroyed the property, likely releasing volatile materials including asbestos into the environment. Not only did the initial release of these substances endanger first responders and the nearby community, but each day the debris continues to sit poses an even greater threat to the community. While the City of Jamestown has done great work in the containment of this site, following every precaution necessary to mitigate any potential threat, the recent fire necessitates federal action. The removal of the contaminated debris is a technical and financial challenge better suited for the EPA. I urge you to expeditiously conduct an investigation of this site in order for it to be added to the Superfund Site list and receive necessary federal aid. This federal aid will be crucial to ensuring the safety of the neighboring community. Thank you for your attention to this important request. Please feel free to contact my staff with any questions. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4026,Tonko Statement on Negotiated Ceasefire Between Israel and Hamas,2023-11-22,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"ALBANY, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko today released the following statement on the negotiated ceasefire announced between Israel and Hamas: “I welcome last night’s announcement of a negotiated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and I am grateful for the U.S. diplomatic efforts that secured this deal. This agreement will put an immediate stop to the violence in exchange for the release of at least 50 hostages, including American citizens, and the delivery of aid into Gaza. Importantly, the ceasefire also provides a framework for this temporary peace to be extended through the release of additional hostages. “It is my hope that this agreement creates the desperately needed space to de-escalate this conflict and allow for an eventual long-term ceasefire agreement which secures the release of all hostages and removes Hamas from power. Ultimately, the United States must do everything in its power to support a durable political solution that guarantees peace and security for both the Israeli and Palestinian people.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4027,Tonko Visits Local Shops Ahead of Small Business Saturday,2023-11-22,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"ALBANY, NY — This week, ahead of Small Business Saturday, Congressman Paul D. Tonko is recognizing local entrepreneurs and small business owners. During his time in the district ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, Tonko visited two locally owned businesses to highlight the economic potential and local impact of our Capital Region’s small business community. “Here in our Capital Region, we are lucky to have countless incredible small businesses that offer vibrancy, good jobs, and economic opportunity for our communities,” Congressman Tonko said. “A strong economy starts with supporting and strengthening our local entrepreneurs, and I’ve continued to work in Congress to support our local small businesses by delivering key provisions to keep businesses afloat during the COVID pandemic and by driving investments and reducing costs for entrepreneurs through the Inflation Reduction Act. This Small Business Saturday, I encourage everyone to truly celebrate that holiday spirit of giving by showing support for our small businesses and shopping locally. I thank our dedicated small business owners for their hard work and commitment that continues to make our Capital Region a better, brighter place.” Studies show that each dollar spent at a locally owned business generates up to three times the local economic impact as a dollar spent at a national chain store. Tonko’s small business visits this week included: A tour of The Schenectady Trading Company, a one-stop shop that features a wide variety of goods sourced from local producers and entrepreneurs in Schenectady County. Founded in 2019 and inspired by the growth and creativity of the Mohawk River community, this store is helping locals and visitors alike discover what Schenectady has to offer. A stop at The Sugar Fairy Bakes, a locally owned bakery that sources its ingredients from Capital Region suppliers and local family farms. Now with two Saratoga County locations in Malta and Mechanicville, The Sugar Fairy is delivering homemade happiness and delicious, sweet treats across our communities. Photos of Rep. Tonko’s visit to The Schenectady Trading Company can be found HERE. Photos of Rep. Tonko’s visit to The Sugar Fairy Bakes can be found HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-dan-goldman-jamie-raskin-demand-elon-musk-x-leadership-enforce,"Congressmen Dan Goldman, Jamie Raskin Demand Elon Musk, X Leadership Enforce Platform Guidelines and Cease Profiting Off Surging Misinformation, Antisemitic and Violent Content",2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Read the Letter Here Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) today wrote a letter to ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) owner, Elon Musk, and Chief Executive Officer Linda Yaccarino demanding that X address failures in applying its anti-misinformation and anti-violence policies to Hamas terrorist propaganda and that X cease profiting off this content. The letter was signed by 25 additional members of Congress. Following the October 7 terrorist attacks against Israel, analysts have documented surging graphic violent content and misinformation on the platform, including Hamas’ terroristic propaganda videos. Much of this content violates X’s platform policies, which prohibit “engaging in or promoting violent acts,” and “recruiting, or providing or distributing services (such as media/propaganda) to further stated goals.” “Several weeks ago, reports from multiple nonprofit research groups showed X Premium accounts spreading Hamas terrorist propaganda videos glorifying barbaric acts of violence against Israelis,” the members wrote. “Further, these reports demonstrated that X is profiting from the spread of this gruesome and harmful propaganda through account subscription fees and ad revenue.” The members continued, “As of today, most of the terrorist propaganda posts flagged by [EU researchers] inexplicably remain live on your platform. Given the many flagrant examples of X profiting off this content, we need detailed answers from X in considering potential legislation that would prevent such activity in the future.” Congressmen Goldman and Raskin called on X to abide by its regulatory policies, particularly its ‘violent and hateful entities’ guidelines, and provide answers to the following questions about persistent misinformation and violent content on X. The members wrote, “We also ask that you provide written responses to the following questions: Please explain how these violating posts and accounts were allowed to remain live for days after their policy violations had been publicized? What action does X plan to take about Hamas-related content currently on the platform? What changes does X intend to implement to ensure that the harmful spread of terrorist propaganda does not happen again?” Read the full letter here or below. Dear Ms. Yaccarino and Mr. Musk, We write to express our grave concern surrounding X’s ongoing failure to abide by its own policies governing the promotion of misinformation and hateful, violent, and terroristic propaganda videos, which shockingly have been used by the company for profit. This follows a troubling pattern of increased antisemitism on the platform since Mr. Musk’s purchase. A March 2023 study by CASM Technology and the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD) documented a near-doubling of the total number of antisemitic tweets in his first three months of ownership. In September, in response to this dramatic increase of antisemitism on X, Israel’s Prime Minister personally urged Mr. Musk to tackle antisemitism on the platform. Now, in the days following Hamas’ horrific October 7th terrorist attack on Israel, we’ve seen an inexcusable situation become outright indefensible. Several weeks ago, reports from multiple nonprofit research groups showed X Premium accounts spreading Hamas terrorist propaganda videos glorifying barbaric acts of violence against Israelis. Further, these reports demonstrated that X is profiting from the spread of this gruesome and harmful propaganda through account subscription fees and ad revenue. In fact, in mid-October, European Union (EU) regulators announced a probe to determine whether X continues to violate European law in allowing terroristic content and misinformation to remain online. As you are no doubt aware, the EU’s Digital Services Act prohibits large social media companies from allowing the spread of “illegal content, online disinformation or other societal risks.” As of today, most of the terrorist propaganda posts flagged by these researchers inexplicably remain live on your platform. Given the many flagrant examples of X profiting off this content, we need detailed answers from X in considering potential legislation that would prevent such activity in the future. X Amplifying Terrorist Propaganda On October 12, a report from the Tech Transparency Project (TTP) documented numerous examples of X Premium accounts openly spreading Hamas propaganda videos—the same videos featured on the website of the military wing of Hamas, the Ezzedeen al-Qassam Brigades (EQB), which has been designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the United States. These videos, which included Hamas branding and imagery, featured scenes of bloodied bodies on the ground, gunmen shooting at buildings with automatic weapons, and rocket and drone attacks on Israeli tanks and vehicles. TTP’s report also documented numerous posts by a non-premium X account that appears to be linked to the EQB. The X account, @Pal_resi48, also goes by EQB, and is hyperlinked directly from the Ezzedeen al-Qassam Brigades website. In addition to posting videos glorifying and celebrating terrorism, this EQB account has recently begun spreading propaganda about Hamas’s purported treatment of hostages in several languages to make its propaganda accessible to the international community. A separate report released last week by ISD further confirmed and quantified the spread of official Hamas propaganda videos on X. In a 24-hour period, ISD researchers identified 128 posts from 45 unique accounts “containing glorification and support for terrorist content on X.” Researchers described uncensored videos depicting the desecration of corpses and “CCTV footage in which civilians are shot and subsequently dragged from their vehicles.” ISD explains that these posts were surfaced by searching for the ‘al-Aqsa Storm’ hashtag in Arabic. This same hashtag is also used by many X users to provide updates and track the conflict generally, leading researchers to conclude that “average users trying to engage with the rapid escalation of events on the ground will likely be exposed to al-Qassem propaganda.” This terrorist propaganda is not confined to the darkest corners of your platform. Both TTP and ISD reports note that one of the accounts spreading the unedited Hamas propaganda videos is @WarMonitors, an account which Mr. Musk personally endorsed as a good source for “following the war in real time” before deleting the post when informed of its history of antisemitism. X Profiting from this Propaganda We are further outraged by the clear indicators that X is profiting from the spread of Hamas’s terrorist propaganda—both through monthly subscription fees collected from some propaganda spreaders, and through ads displayed in replies to posts by both Premium and regular accounts. TTP’s report named specific X Premium accounts that remain active. ISD researchers reported that at least 20 out of 45 accounts it found to have posted terrorist propaganda were X Premium accounts, meaning that they are paying for verification without any formalized vetting process and being promoted by the website’s algorithm. Researchers also documented multiple instances in which X placed “conversation ads” in the replies of Hamas propaganda videos circulated by these Premium accounts. TTP noted ads from the American Investment Council and the National Football League in the replies of posts from the EQB’s @Pal_resi48 account, which misleads users into believing that these companies agree with or actively support the Hamas propaganda spread by these accounts. X has a responsibility not to harm the public image of its clients and such conduct is a gross violation of that duty. X Profiting from Spread of Misinformation In addition to profiting off violent content by a terrorist organization, X has financially benefited from the spread of demonstrably false and misleading content as well. The media watchdog, NewsGuard, recently published analysis of the 250 most-engaged posts — likes, reposts, replies, and bookmarks — during the first week of the conflict that promoted at least one of ten prominent false or unsubstantiated narratives relating to the war. Their analysis revealed that 186 out of these 250 posts (74 percent) were posted by accounts verified by X — accounts that X directly profits from. NewsGuard identified these ten false or unsubstantiated claims. Their analysis also found that posts advancing these myths collectively received 1,349,979 engagements and were cumulatively viewed more than 100 million times globally in just one week. Given X’s major cuts to content moderation staff over the last year, it appears that X has willfully permitted, and benefited from, the illegal spread of terrorist propaganda. Such behavior from one of the world’s most widely used social media platforms is wholly unacceptable. Clear Violations of Twitter Policy Many of the posts identified by ISD and TTP violate X’s “Violent and hateful entities” policy, which prohibits promotion of terrorist organizations and their propaganda. This policy—updated as recently as April 2023—states that examples of violating content include X users posting “on behalf of, indirectly, or directly for violent or hateful entity: Engaging in or promoting violent acts Recruiting, or providing or distributing services (such as media/propaganda) to further stated goals.” There is no question that the posting of videos that celebrate scenes of “blood-soaked” or “desecrated” bodies qualifies as the promotion of “violent acts.” An EQB thread promoting a hostage video, which purports to demonstrate Hamas’ supposedly humane care of a captured Israeli citizen, would certainly appear to “further [its] stated goals.” X’s “Perpetrators of Violent Attacks” policy, updated as recently as February 2023, prohibits accounts from sharing content produced by the perpetrators of terrorist attacks. This policy states that X will take action to remove “perpetrator-generated media related to the attack in all instances.” As a reminder, the United States designated Hamas as a Foreign Terrorist Organization in 1997. There is no ambiguity about whether violent videos generated by the group qualify under these policies. These are videos that carry official Hamas branding and iconography. Since both policies indicate they were updated this year under Mr. Musk’s leadership, there should also be no question about whether these policies remain in effect. We are demanding that you uphold your public commitments and enforce your policies. Accordingly, no later than December 1, 2023, we request that you provide all forms of written communications, including email, text messages, other messaging services, or X direct messages, relating to content moderation for any posts or accounts associated with, related to, or connected to Hamas. We also ask that you provide written responses to the following questions within the same time frame: Please explain how these violating posts and accounts were allowed to remain live for days after their policy violations had been publicized? What action does X plan to take about Hamas-related content currently on the platform? What changes does X intend to implement to ensure that the harmful spread of terrorist propaganda does not happen again? While many news outlets and humanitarian organizations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross, many of the United Nations’ agencies, and the Palestine Red Crescent Society, which participates in the verified user option, continue to use X to share critical news and updates, the platform has become a hotbed of misinformation and terrorist propaganda. X not only has an obligation to abide by its own content moderation policies, but it has a public duty to ensure that violent images and propaganda from a terrorist organization are not spread on its platform. We look forward to reviewing your responsive materials to this letter no later than December 1. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-joe-morelle-and-federal-trade-commission-take-action-protect-older,CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE AND THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT OLDER AMERICANS FROM HOLIDAY SCAMS,2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Joseph D. Morelle,M001206,morelle.house.gov,morelle,https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Rochester, NY)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle joined the Lily Café Friendsgiving Celebration to discuss the steps seniors can take to avoid falling victim to holiday scams. “The holiday season brings a rise in scams targeting older Americans, a trend both concerning and increasingly prevalent,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is already reporting increased fraudulent activities, ranging from fake charities to deceptive online schemes, and I want to make sure this is on everyone’s radar. By staying informed, vigilant, and sharing valuable information from trusted sources like the FTC and Lifespan, we can ensure that the holiday season remains a time of joy.” It’s essential to raise awareness and always be cautious of unsolicited messages or calls, especially those claiming to be from government agencies or well-known organizations. Government agencies and banks do not ask for personal or financial information over the phone or through email, including Medicare services. It’s open enrollment season, and scammers may take advantage of this by targeting recipients. Beware of unsolicited text messages. Never click on links or reply to messages claiming you have won a prize, or an urgent response is requested. For more information on scam prevention, or what to do if you fall victim, visit the FTC website at https://consumer.ftc.gov/scams.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-tours-marjory-stoneman-douglas-high-school-vice-chair,Congressman Dan Goldman Tours Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School as Vice Chair of House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force,2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Goldman Joins Rep. Moskowitz and Bipartisan Group of Representatives to Tour Site of 2018 Parkland Shooting; Roundtable Discussion with Victims’ Families and School Safety Stakeholders Discussion on Path Forward for Gun Violence Prevention and School Safety Parkland Among the Deadliest School Shootings in American History, 17 Killed and 17 Injured Congressman Goldman is Vice Chair of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and Chair of the Dads Caucus Gun Violence Prevention Working Group Photos Available Here Parkland, FL – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today joined Congressman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23) and Representatives Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (FL-25), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Wiley Nickel (NC-13), and Greg Landsman (OH-01) on a bipartisan tour of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School with families of the 2018 Parkland shooting victims. Following the tour, the members and families held a roundtable discussion with stakeholders on school safety and how to prevent future tragedies. The 2018 Parkland shooting was one of the deadliest school shootings in American history. Using an AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle, the gunman, who had exhibited multiple warning signs, killed 14 students and three staff members and injured an additional 17 people. “Nearly six years later, this high school remains a powerful and sobering time capsule of a mass shooting that could have easily been avoided,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “In less than four minutes, 17 victims succumbed to indiscriminate violence by someone who should have never had access to a gun. The families and survivors of the Parkland shooting have had their lives upended, and yet Congress still has not done enough to ensure that nothing like this can ever happen again. I look forward to discussing with my colleagues what we saw in that building so that we can do better to protect our children and schools from the public health emergency of gun violence.” Congressman Dan Goldman is a Vice Chair of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and was recently named as Chair of the Dads Caucus Gun Violence Prevention Working Group. For two years in a row, gun violence has emerged as the leading cause of death for children in the United States. In 2022, 995 children and 5,157 were either killed or injured by gun violence. This year so far, 847 children and 4,798 teens have been either killed or injured. Goldman is committed to protecting communities across the country from the dangers of gun violence. Earlier this year, Congressman Goldman cosponsored a package of “red flag” laws to establish a federal “red flag” program and strengthen state and local legislation through the creation of grant programs to support the implementation of extreme risk protection order laws. ""Red flag” laws allow a judge to temporarily remove a person’s access to guns when there is evidence that they pose a serious risk to themselves or others. Earlier this month, Congressman Goldman cosponsored the ‘Responsible Firearms Marketing Act,’ which would direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to study the dangers of unfair and deceptive marketing and advertising practices directed at children which are utilized by the gun industry. In his role as Vice Chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, the Congressman joined with fellow leadership members of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force to condemn the Republican failure to respond to the gun violence epidemic, as well as joining the Task Force in a letter urging Speaker Johnson to use his new authority to bring bipartisan, commonsense gun safety legislation to the floor for a vote. Last week, as Chair of the Dads Caucus Gun Violence Prevention Working Group, Goldman hosted a roundtable with the Dads Caucus and representatives from Everytown for Gun Safety, Giffords, and the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence to discuss strategies for ending the gun violence epidemic. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-alice-hyde-medical-center-receives-critical-access-hospital-designation-from-centers-for-medicare-and-medicaid-services-to-maintain-essential-care-for-franklin-county-communities,SCHUMER: ALICE HYDE MEDICAL CENTER RECEIVES CRITICAL ACCESS HOSPITAL DESIGNATION FROM CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES TO MAINTAIN ESSENTIAL CARE FOR FRANKLIN COUNTY COMMUNITIES,2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Says Critical Access Hospital (CAH) Status Provides Rural Hospitals Like Alice Hyde With Enhanced Reimbursement Rates To Keep Healthcare Services In Underserved Communities Like Those In Malone Schumer Has Been A Champion Of THE CAH Program For Years And Successfully Saved Several Upstate New York Hospitals At Risk Of Losing Their CAH Status Last Year; As A Result, Schumer Says CAH Status Is Now Heading To Another North Country Hospital, Helping Alice Hyde To Continue Lifesaving Care And Essential Medical Procedures Schumer: CAH Designation Will Be a Game Changer For Alice Hyde And The Franklin County Communities It Serves! Following his advocacy, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today announced that Alice Hyde Medical Center has been designated as a Critical Access Hospital (CAH) by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Schumer said that Alice Hyde’s new status will reduce the community hospital’s financial vulnerability amid financial and operational challenges for rural health care organizations in New York and across the country. Schumer has been a champion of the CAH program for years and successfully saved several Upstate New York hospitals at risk of losing their CAH status last year. ""I am thrilled to announce that Alice Hyde Medical Center has received Critical Access Hospital (CAH) designation, the result of relentless advocacy to secure essential healthcare services for communities across Franklin County. This designation is a game-changer for Alice Hyde, providing enhanced reimbursement rates that will fortify its financial resilience amid the current challenges facing rural health care organizations,” said Senator Schumer. “That’s why I fought so hard last year to reverse CMS's ill-fated rules change and fought tooth and nail for the CAH program – safeguarding the lifeline of critical medical procedures and lifesaving care for Malone residents. This victory for Alice Hyde underscores the importance of advocating for our rural hospitals in Franklin County and across New York State, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive for generations to come.” “Critical Access Hospital status is essential to Alice Hyde’s future and directly supports our commitment to caring for communities across Franklin County. We are fortunate to have strong legislative partners like Senator Schumer, and grateful for his commitment to working with rural hospitals like ours, to ensure our communities continue to have access to high-quality, compassionate care as close to home as possible,” said Alice Hyde Medical Center President Michelle LeBeau. Schumer explained that the CAH program specifically allows smaller rural providers, like those in the North Country, with the designation to receive greater federal reimbursements for care to keep these otherwise financially vulnerable rural hospitals in the communities that need them most. Schumer’s office advocated directly to CMS on behalf of Alice Hyde to receive this vital designation. Prior the receiving this designation, Alice Hyde was considered a Sole Community Hospital by CMS, meaning it received lower reimbursement for services for patients on federally-funded health insurance plans such as Medicare, which make up a significant portion of the population served by the hospital. CAH hospitals are reimbursed 101 percent of “reasonable costs” for services, while the federal reimbursement rate for non-CAH hospitals is much lower. Alice Hyde estimates that it will receive between $3 million and $4.5 million more per year in service reimbursements with its new status as a CAH. In 2015, the CMS issued a new policy change without going through the proper notice and rulemaking required by law that would enact more restrictive eligibility definitions for the CAH program, costing rural hospitals millions. Schumer immediately began leading the fight to maintain CAH status for Upstate’s rural hospitals, sending multiple letters highlighting the issue and the impact it would have on rural residents, and personally called HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra to fix this bureaucratic mistake that could cost thousands of rural family’s critical healthcare services. As a result of Schumer’s advocacy, CMS announced last year that it would propose to reverse this disastrous policy and clarify the language that would have caused New York’s CAH’s to lose their status, which was finalized in November 2022. The decision to undo the previous ruling that changed the guidelines was finalized and went into effect on January 1, 2023, allowing current hospitals to maintain their CAH status, and other hospitals, which were previously denied, to reapply for this designation to potentially receive millions in critical reimbursements. The CAH designation was created by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 to give small rural healthcare providers greater financial reimbursement for servicing Medicare and Medicaid patients, as well as provide other resources, in order to keep vulnerable rural hospitals financially stable. One factor for CAH eligibility requires that a hospital be a certain distance from another hospital by either a primary or secondary road and provide around-the-clock emergency services. Previously, CMS regulations stated that a CAH hospital must be at least 35 miles from the nearest hospital by “primary road”, defined as any road in an interstate system or a US-numbered highway, or at least 15 miles in areas with mountainous terrain or only “secondary roads”, defined to include single lane state routes. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-reveals-as-new-yorkers-prepare-for-busy-thanksgiving-travel-week-airlines-are-charging-parents-junk-fees-just-to-sit-with-their-kids-schumer-saying-this-deceptive-practice-that-splits-up-families-needs-to-end-now-and-is-launching-new-push-for-legislation-to-keep-families-flying-together,"SCHUMER REVEALS: AS NEW YORKERS PREPARE FOR BUSY THANKSGIVING TRAVEL WEEK, AIRLINES ARE CHARGING PARENTS JUNK FEES JUST TO SIT WITH THEIR KIDS; SCHUMER SAYING THIS DECEPTIVE PRACTICE THAT SPLITS UP...",2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"With Record Thanksgiving Travel Expected This Year Across America, Schumer Says It Is Unacceptable That Airlines Would Charge Extra $$$ Just To Sit With Their Kids Schumer Has Led This Fight For Years And Says Legislation Is How We Can Finally Land Solution To Getting Rid Of These Junk Fees That Split Up Families Once And For All Schumer: It’s Time To Make Traveling Less Turbulent For Families And Create Fee-Free Family Seating! Standing with New York families as airports prepare for one of the busiest Thanksgiving travel weeks on record, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today revealed that many airlines are charging parents deceptive junk fees just to sit with their kids when they travel that can lead to families getting split up on flights. Schumer, who has led the fight against fees like these for years, is now pushing for legislation, the Families Fly Together Act, to prohibit these deceptive fees on parents that 6/10 of the major airlines haven’t committed to removing and finally create fee-free family seating to keep parents and kids together when they fly. “This Thanksgiving travel week is going to be one of the busiest on record, and airlines are making a stressful travel time even more turbulent by charging junk fees to parents who want to sit with their kids on flights. Plain and simple, parents should not be the ones to pay the price for wanting to care for and keep their kids safe while traveling,” said Senator Schumer. “That’s why I’m pushing for legislation that protects families and lowers travel costs by eliminating junk fees for parents in New York and across the country. The Families Fly Together Act is the ticket to stopping airlines - which already make billions of dollars in profits - from charging families deceptive unaffordable and unnecessary fees, and I won’t stop fighting until we’ve ended this ridiculous practice.” ""As a mom of three young children, I know that air travel as a family is already a complex dance of logistics, expenses, and inevitable chaos. I want to commend to Senator Schumer for co-sponsoring the Families Fly Together Act,” said Angela Marinucci, Amherst Town Councilmember-elect. “This crucial legislation is a significant step in prioritizing the cohesion of families while simultaneously addressing unreasonable junk fees that make air travel unnecessarily arduous for parents. It's time to ensure that flying with our loved ones remains a practical reality for families, and I appreciate Senator Schumer’s efforts in making this possible."" Schumer said that it should be common sense that charging families junk fees or enabling practices that can lead to parents and kids being split up is bad policy, and beyond creating a headache, can be dangerous and add undue stress to the travel process. Especially as holiday travel rush begins, and airports are inundated with record numbers of travelers, Schumer said it is important that traveling as a family is as stress-free and affordable as possible. While airlines often say that they will try to keep families together or make efforts to move people once on board, the senator said this is not a solution to this problem and often results in families still paying extra or having to beg patrons on the flight to move so that they can be with their kids. Schumer added, “Right now families are either getting charged junk fees that they should never face in the first place or the airlines policies are to have them go through a game of musical chairs that is neither fun nor fair to passengers. Airlines have to get their heads out of the clouds and do right by families traveling with children.” The Families Fly Together Act that Schumer is pushing to become law would ensure that a child can sit next to a family member on a flight at no additional cost to the base fare and prohibit airlines from charging extra fees for an adjacent seat next to an adult accompanying the child. Schumer said the Biden Administration’s actions to protect consumers have already helped make significant progress on eliminating junk fees and holding airlines accountable. Recently, the U.S. Department of Transportation made it easier for parents to avoid paying junk fees to sit with their children when they fly by rolling out a new family seating dashboard that highlights the airlines that guarantee fee-free family seating, and those that do not. Up until March of this year, no U.S. airline guaranteed fee-free seating for children 13 or under and an accompanying adult at no additional cost, but following pressure from the USDOT and years of the senator’s advocacy, 4 major airlines agreed to these requirements. Schumer said that while this represents significant progress, given that many major airlines are dragging their feet or putting profit over families, the U.S. needs laws to enforce fee-free family seating, which is why he is pushing the Families Fly Together Act and ramping up pressure on the airlines to ensure families are no longer burdened by unnecessary fees that pinch Americans’ pocketbooks. Text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-with-rochester-families-preparing-for-thanksgiving-vital-fed-nutrition-program-used-by-21000-finger-lakes-kids-moms-and-babies-is-in-limbo-senator-launches-push-to-support-rochesters-foodlink-and-help-ny-families-keep-food-on-the-tables-beyond-the-holiday-season,"SCHUMER: WITH ROCHESTER FAMILIES PREPARING FOR THANKSGIVING, VITAL FED NUTRITION PROGRAM USED BY 21,000+ FINGER LAKES KIDS, MOMS, & BABIES IS IN LIMBO; SENATOR LAUNCHES PUSH TO SUPPORT ROCHESTER’S...",2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Rochester’s Foodlink Is The Nation’s First And Only Mobile Curbside Grocery Store Eligible For WIC, But With Food Bank Already Spread Thin For Busy Holiday Season If Program Were To Run Out Of Funds It Could Put Major Strain On Local Families And Operations Senator Says Fed Nutrition Program Has Long Enjoyed Bipartisan Support, But Says The House Can’t Keep Kicking The Can Down The Road Schumer: We Can’t Let Tables Go Empty After The Holiday Season For Rochester Women And Children Standing at Foodlink, the regional food bank based in Rochester, NY as families prepare for Thanksgiving, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today revealed how the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) which supports 21,000+ kids, moms, and babies in the Finger Lakes region alone is in limbo and how without action many could see empty tables after the holiday season. Schumer explained that this program is especially vital for Rochester’s Foodlink as the operator of the nation’s first and only WIC-eligible mobile curbside grocery store, and if this program were to not receive additional funds by mid-January it could have many families struggling to keep food on the table after the holiday season. “Every Finger Lakes family deserves access to nutritious and affordable food to put on their dinner tables. As Thanksgiving and the holiday season approaches, it is more important, now than ever before, that Rochester and Foodlink can serve struggling families in our communities,” said Senator Schumer. “We must not leave the vital funding for this program off the dinner plate for the over 21,000 kids, babies and moms who need fresh and healthy food most. The recipe to successfully help families access the healthy food they deserve without the fear of funding running out is clear. Making this investment is the key ingredient needed, which is why I’m pushing to safeguard our Rochester families and the vital foodbanks like Foodlink that families here rely on to afford the nutritious food they need.” Schumer explained that with funding for WIC set to run low in two months, he is pushing Congress to fund this critical program to ensure that Rochester kids and mothers continue to have the resources to purchase healthy foods at Foodlink’s mobile curbside grocery during and beyond the holiday season. Schumer said that without additional federal funding, states may start to cut enrollments by creating waitlists and halting outreach, which would be devastating for the Finger Lakes families who rely on WIC and food banks like Foodlink to put healthy, affordable, and fresh food on the table. A breakdown by county of the 21,000+ mothers, children and infants who use the WIC program in the Finger Lakes can be found below: County Number of Residents Using WIC Program Yates 305 Wyoming 576 Wayne 1437 Seneca 452 Orleans 808 Ontario 1218 Monroe 15047 Livingston 842 Genesee 908 Total 21,593 In 2021, Foodlink’s curbside Market program became the first mobile WIC vendor in the country providing milk, fresh produce, and other healthy foods important for kids and mothers. Over the past few years, Foodlink has been able to grow its mobile Curbside Market program in Rochester to expand healthy food options for families that use WIC. The food bank is especially important to the Rochester community because access to healthy food options is extremely limited for the families that use WIC, and their mobile Curbside Market is the only mobile market in the nation that is approved to accept WIC payments. ""We stand with Senator Schumer in calling on Congress to increase WIC funding due to the recent rise in enrollment and higher food prices,"" said Julia Tedesco, President & CEO of Foodlink, which launched the nation's first mobile WIC market in 2021. ""This critical nutrition program has historically received bipartisan support. A lack of funding could have an adverse effect on the health and well-being of hundreds of thousands of children, which is why policymakers should act swiftly to meet this urgent need."" ""WIC has helped me focus on my family's nutrition since 2015."" said Whitley Hasty, Foodlink's Benefits Navigation Coordinator. “WIC has been the most life-saving program for American families since 1972 when we began to approach poverty with the principle that food is also medicine. With so much uncertainty today, my hope is that families like mine can once again count on our government to provide this vital program with the resources and funding it needs. Otherwise, we are actively choosing to give up on the health of our most vulnerable group of citizens."" Currently, Foodlink’s six mobile curbside markets park at 65 mobile sites per week across the region, and the food bank’s mobile sites serve over 1,000 people a week. In total over the last year Foodlink has sold over 288,000 pounds and distributed over 6.6 million pounds of produce, provided 1.9 million healthy meals to children, and served 1,212 SNAP households. Senator Schumer has been a long-time advocate for Foodlink. In 2022, Schumer secured $750,000 for Foodlink to build a new freezer and cold storage facility to increase capacity to safely store and distribute more fresh vegetables, fruits, dairy and lean protein to hunger relief partners. In 2016, Schumer secured $125,000 in federal funding for Foodlink to expand their Curbside Market and Lexington Avenue Urban Farm program to provide fresh and affordable food to individuals in low-income communities throughout the Greater Rochester area. Foodlink is a Rochester-based nonprofit dedicated to ending hunger and building healthier communities by addressing both the symptoms and root causes of food insecurity. They serve as the hub of the emergency food system across a 10-county service area. As a regional food bank, Foodlink is responsible for the aggregation, storage and distribution of millions of pounds of purchased and donated food to nonprofit organizations that serve food-insecure individuals throughout a 10-county service area. The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) serves to safeguard the health of low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk by providing nutritious foods to supplement diets, information on healthy eating including breastfeeding promotion and support, and referrals to health care. A wide variety of state and local organizations cooperate in providing food and health care benefits, and 46,000 merchants nationwide accept WIC vouchers. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-joe-morelle-announces-new-federal-dollars-support-innovation,CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE ANNOUNCES NEW FEDERAL DOLLARS TO SUPPORT INNOVATION IN ROCHESTER,2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Joseph D. Morelle,M001206,morelle.house.gov,morelle,https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Rochester, N.Y.) — Today, Congressman Joe Morelle announced NextCorps was selected to receive funding in a United States Department of Energy (DOE) contest to spur clean energy manufacturing across the United States. “We all know Rochester has a long and storied history of innovation—and I’m proud to announce this new funding for NextCorps as the next step in our community’s innovation story,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “Building on our recent designation as a Regional Technology Hub, this funding will allow NextCorps to continue their work to secure our clean energy future, all while fostering entrepreneurial growth and creating good-paying jobs in the process. Congratulations to NextCorps on this announcement, and I cannot wait to see all the amazing results from this exciting collaboration!” “NextCorps is excited to combine the experience we’ve gain from years of working with small and mid-sized manufacturers, as well as from our multiple clean energy programs, to create new growth opportunities here in the region,” said Jim Senall, NextCorps President. “This award will help us to further develop a regional strategy and partnerships around clean energy manufacturing, which will be used to secure additional rounds of funding for project implementation.” The NextCorps Rochester Area Clean Energy Manufacturing Hub was named a Phase One winner of the DOE’s inaugural Manufacture of Advanced Key Energy Infrastructure Technologies (MAKE IT) Prize Strategies Track. The MAKE IT Prize is a multiphase, two-track competition aimed at catalyzing domestic manufacturing of critical components for the clean energy infrastructure. Following the announcement of this award in the “Strategies Track,” the 13 teams—including NextCorps—will go on to submit a plan to establish a manufacturing facility for their identified clean energy technology. Additional funding of $100,000 will be available in the Phase 2, “Create” phase of the competition, followed by the opportunity to win $250,000 in the Phase 3, “Activate” portion, which will lead to a letter of commitment from at least one entity ready to establish a facility in the region. The MAKE IT Prize was developed by the DOE Office of Technology Transitions (OTT), the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED), and the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). For more information, visit the MAKE IT Prize’s website here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/velazquez-leads-12-members-requesting-information-act-22-tax-evaders,Velázquez Leads 12 Members Requesting Information on Act 22 Tax Evaders in Puerto Rico,2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Nydia M. Velázquez,V000081,velazquez.house.gov,velazquez,https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C.— Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) led 12 members in sending a letter to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) raising concerns about a Puerto Rico law that is enabling tax evasion by the American wealthy, and asking the IRS to expedite a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request submitted by a coalition of Puerto Rican and U.S advocacy groups regarding the agency’s efforts to identify and address noncompliance with this law. Puerto Rico’s Act 22 (now part of Act 60 of 2019) seeks to attract wealthy foreigners and mainlanders to Puerto Rico by offering generous tax-related benefits. For instance, beneficiaries do not have to pay federal income taxes on PR-source income and can avoid paying any taxes on interests, dividends, and capital gains. In 2021, the IRS initiated a campaign against Act 22 beneficiaries focused on U.S. taxpayers who may have inaccurately claimed benefits without meeting the law residency requirements. However, the IRS has not released detailed information to the public regarding these efforts. Since the law’s enactment in 2012, over 5,000 wealthy individuals have relocated to Puerto Rico, mainly from the United States. Research has found that cash property sales have grown exponentially, and short-term rentals have rapidly expanded, raising the prices of median rent and median housing units, and creating a housing shortage for locals. “The tax haven that Act 22 has created in Puerto Rico has proliferated the use of short-term rentals (“STRs”), increased cash property sales and market speculation, and caused displacement for the Puerto Rican people themselves,” wrote the lawmakers. “Therefore, we consider it essential to understand to what extent the IRS and Puerto Rico’s Department of Treasury are monitoring U.S. individuals and businesses claiming tax benefits under Act 60, particularly as the number of Act 22/Act 60 beneficiaries continues to grow exponentially.” Further, Act 22 provisions have caused substantial revenue losses for both Puerto Rico’s government and the Federal government. Analysis from the government of Puerto Rico estimates the island stands to lose an estimated $4.5 billion in revenues related to Act 22 between 2020 and 2026. The IRS has also revealed that from 2012 to 2019, 647 Americans who were granted Act 22 benefits paid, altogether, $557,978,112 in federal income taxes in the five years prior to relocating to Puerto Rico. While data on the extent of the impact of Act 22 on the U.S. tax base is severely limited, this figure offers a glimpse into the critical funds that the United States is losing due to the tax evasion scheme created by the law. In addition to Velázquez this letter was signed by Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), James McGovern (D-MA), Dan Goldman (D-NY), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Andre Carson (D-IN), Alma Adams (D-NC), and Cori Bush (D-MO). For a full copy of the letter, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-and-senator-cory-booker-push-biden-administration,Congressman Dan Goldman and Senator Cory Booker Push Biden Administration to Address Israeli Settler Violence in the West Bank,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Read Full Letter Here Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Senator Cory Booker (D- NJ) today called on President Joe Biden and his administration to not lose sight of the increasing danger posed by Israeli settler violence on the West Bank. As the Israeli government responds to legitimate threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and others, Goldman and Booker are urging the Biden Administration to make clear to our Israeli allies that extremist settler violence poses a direct threat to the objectives of preventing the war from escalating into a wider regional conflict, protecting innocent Israeli and Palestinian civilians, and facilitating the flow of desperately needed humanitarian assistance. Congressman Goldman and Senator Booker were the only two members of Congress who were in Israel when Hamas attacked on October 7. Since October 7th, daily settler violence against Palestinian civilians has increased by over 130 percent. “As your administration tirelessly works to prevent the expansion of this conflict, we write to specifically highlight the threat that violence in the West Bank – especially vigilante violence by Israeli settlers – poses to those efforts, Israel’s near-term security, Palestinian human rights, and long-term regional peace,” the members wrote. Congressman Goldman and Senator Booker warned that settler violence in the West Bank not only pose a grave threat to an immediate peace deal, but the long-term prospect of peace through a two-state solution as well. Whether it be the Palestinian Authority or another entity, Goldman and Booker believe that any government in the West Bank and Gaza will require intense international support, reforms, and legitimacy to deliver for the Palestinian people. “We strongly believe that a two-state solution remains the only genuine option to achieve a just, secure, and prosperous future for both Israelis and Palestinians,” the members continued. “However, settler violence against Palestinian civilians destroys the very seeds of trust and cooperation needed to make progress toward a two-state outcome and an enduring peace in the region. For example, settler violence presents a significant challenge to the viability of the Palestinian Authority (PA), a critical partner for West Bank security, the future of Gaza, and regional peace efforts.” The members also wrote expressing concern that members of the Israeli government has not done enough to curb settler violence or to stop U.S. provided weapons from being by settlers to target innocent Palestinian civilians in the West Bank. Read the full letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-dan-goldman-ethics-report-george-santos,Statement from Congressman Dan Goldman on Ethics Report on George Santos,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today issued the following statement after the House Ethics Committee released its long-awaited report of the investigation into the conduct of George Santos. “More than ten months after Congressman Torres and I filed a complaint with the House Ethics Committee, the Committee has finally announced their findings and, and as I anticipated last December, concluded that George Santos defrauded his donors, filed false FEC reports, and repeatedly broke the law in order to fraudulently win his election last November. “While this report provides more evidence of Santos’s brazen scheme to deceive the voters of the 3rd district of New York, we have long known the basic framework of his scheme based on Santos’s own admissions of his lies and misrepresentations. Now that Republicans no longer have any fictional excuse to protect Santos in order to preserve their narrow majority, I hope they will join Democrats in expelling him from Congress immediately. ""Upon returning to Washington following the Thanksgiving break, I intend to file a motion to expel Santos from Congress once and for all. “It is time for the people of NY-03 to have real representation, and that starts with the immediate removal of George Santos.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/meng-commemorates-two-year-anniversary-bipartisan-infrastructure-law,Meng Commemorates Two Year Anniversary Of The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Grace Meng,M001188,meng.house.gov,meng,https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens), a member of the Regional Leadership Council (RLC), yesterday commemorated the two-year anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). The BIL, which was signed into law by President Biden on November 15, 2021, continues making historic and needed investments in improving transportation, infrastructure, modernizing the electric grid, expanding access to high-speed internet, and so much more. “In the two years since the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was signed into law, New York State and the entire country have seen massive investments in improving infrastructure,” said Meng. “I have been proud to use my role on the Regional Leadership Council to express the importance of federal funds making its way to the New York region. These funds are helping improve lives and I look forward to continuing to work on behalf of the people of Queens and for the state of New York in bringing these needed federal funds to improving our communities.” “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law delivered and is continuing to deliver real and transformational change to New York. This act provides the largest single federal investment in infrastructure in the history of the Republic to help fix our airports, crumbling bridges, roads and tunnels, provide clean water throughout the land, modernize our mass transportation systems and create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs for hardworking New Yorkers,” said Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. “I thank President Biden, Congresswoman Grace Meng, Chair Steny Hoyer and the Regional Leadership Council for their efforts in shepherding $16.8 billion to New York and their work ensuring that our implementation strategy is comprehensive, equitable and robust.” In the two years since the BIL was signed by President Biden, $16.8 billion in funding has been announced for New York State, with more on the way, funding about 350 specific projects, including: $318.3 million for airports, including JFK, LaGuardia, and dozens of regional airports. $100.7 million to build out a network of EV chargers across the state. $4.3 billion to improve public transportation including $250 million to the MTA to make our New York City’s subway system more accessible for people with disabilities. $664.6 million to connect people in state to reliable high-speed internet. $14.1 billion for transportation (roads, bridges, public transit, ports, and airports). $8.7 billion for roads, bridges, roadway safety, and major projects. $1 billion for clean water infrastructure. The Regional Leadership Council was created by Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) at the start of the Congress and is headed by former Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD). In the Congresswoman’s capacity on the Regional Leadership Council, she helps ensure that historic legislation, like the BIL, is being implemented throughout the New York region. Additionally, the RLC enhances coordination among the Biden Administration, Congress, and regional stakeholders to make the implementation process function as quickly and effectively as possible.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-velazquez-senator-markey-reintroduce-bill-protect-migrants,"Rep. Velázquez, Senator Markey Reintroduce Bill to Protect Migrants Displaced by Climate Change",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,NY,Nydia M. Velázquez,V000081,velazquez.house.gov,velazquez,https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC –Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) and Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) reintroduced the bicameral Climate Displaced Person’s Act, which aims to address the growing effect of climate change on human migration. “In order to fight climate change, we must all be in this together,” said Congresswoman Velázquez. “However, we must not only find solutions around climate equity and climate justice but recognize the need for security assistance and resettlement opportunities for climate-displaced persons. I’m proud to introduce this comprehensive legislation to protect the human rights of climate-displaced persons and establish a national strategy to address climate displacement.” “We are already seeing the impacts of the climate crisis—from stronger storms to deadlier wildfires to longer droughts,” said Senator Markey. “The Climate Displaced Persons Act creates new protections and pathways for people that bear the brunt of climate change’s catastrophic impacts while doing the least to cause the crisis. We must help people both stay in their homes, as well as provide people who have lost their homes, communities or neighborhoods from climate-fueled disasters—with support and a second chance at life.” Climate-displaced persons often lack any formal protection under U.S. or international law. While the effects of climate change can aggravate societal tensions that lead to persecution, many climate-displaced persons do not meet the definition of refugee, and they cannot access resettlement opportunities in the United States. The bill directs the Secretary of State, in coordination with the USAID Administrator and the Special President Envoy for Climate, to devise a Global Climate Resilience Strategy. With respect to those needing durable resettlement solutions, the bill creates a new humanitarian program for those who have been displaced by environmental disasters or climate change. This program will function separately from the U.S. refugee admissions program but will afford the same benefits. This bill is cosponsored by Representatives: Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Jim McGovern (D-MA), and Adriano Espaillat (D-NY). A copy of the legislation can be found here. The CDPA is endorsed by National Partnership for New Americans; U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants; Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN); Refugees International; Human Rights First; CASA; CCAN Action Fund; Taproot Earth; Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service; Jesuit Refugee Service/USA; Church World Service; Somos Un Pueblo Unido; Diocesan Migrant and Refugee Services Inc. ; The Advocates for Human Rights; National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (NNIRR); Haitian Bridge Alliance; CHIRLA - Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights; Center for Gender & Refugee Studies; Earth Ethics, Inc.; Center for Biological Diversity; Climate Action Rhode Island-350; Climate Critical; Arkansas United; ECDC; Rainbow Railroad; Environmental Grantmakers Association; Stand.earth; National Employment Law Project; Wind of the Spirit Immigrant Resource Center; Texas Impact/Texas Interfaith Power & Light; Earthworks; New Mexico Interfaith Power and Light; The People’s Justice Council; Friends of the Earth US; Justice Is Global; HIAS; Nuclear Information and Resource Service; Lutheran Advocacy Ministry - New Mexico; New Mexico Conference of Churches; Turtle Island Restoration Network; Don’t Waste Arizona; Alianza Americas; Minnesota Interfaith Power & Light; Citizens Caring for the Future; 198 methods; Vote Climate; 350 Conejo / San Fernando Valley; Newark Water Coalition; Unite North Metro Denver; Climate Refugees; Unite North Metro Denver; ActionAid USA; 350Hawaii; Common Ground Rising; Animals Are Sentient Beings Inc.; Presente.org; Terra Advocati; Friends Committee on National Legislation; Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition; Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago; Occupy Bergen County; GreenLatinos; International Institute of New England; International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP); North Carolina Interfaith Power & Light; North Carolina Council of Churches ; MoveOn.org Hoboken; Rise Up WV; First Congregational United Church of Christ; Communities United for Status & Protection (CUSP); Greenpeace USA; American Jewish World Service; Endangered Species Coalition; Justice in Motion; International Rescue Committee; Zero Hour; Louisiana Organization for Refugees and Immigrants; Michigan Immigrant Rights Center; Foreign Policy for America; DRUM - Desis Rising Up & Moving; Oxfam America; Sunrise Movement; League of Conservation Voters; Women’s Refugee Commission; Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition; New York Immigration Coalition; Climate Action California; Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC); Promise Arizona; Empowering Pacific Islander Communities ; Tennessee Immigrant & Refugee Rights Coalition ; Louisiana Organization for Refugees and Immigrants (LORI); ecoAmerica; Alight ; 350PDX; and 350.org. “The Climate Displaced Persons Act is a critical piece of legislation to protect the rights, dignity, and safety of those forced to leave their homes due to the accelerating climate crisis, while bolstering our nation’s commitment to global climate resilience,” said NicoleMelaku, Executive Director of the National Partnership for New Americans. “People are already on the move due to climate change and it is time that U.S. policy reflect this reality and offer those displaced a pathway to migrate safely and with dignity.” “While the vast majority of people forced to leave their homes due to climate-related disasters are displaced internally, those who are forced to flee their countries face a stunning dearth of safe migration options,” said Eleanor Acer, Senior Director of Refugee Protection at Human Rights First. “The Climate Displaced Persons Act is a crucial first step in recognizing that the United States has a duty to take action to create migration pathways for people pushed to leave their countries by the adverse impacts of climate change. By creating such pathways, the United States can lead by example, encourage other countries to take similar steps and provide a crucial lifeline to vulnerable and marginalized people placed at risk by climate disasters.” “Today, almost every displacement crisis Refugees International covers globally has a significant climate aspect, from hurricanes in Guatemala and devastating cyclones in Mozambique to record flooding in Bangladesh and Pakistan. Severe droughts followed by El Niño flooding are drastically affecting livelihoods and health in Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia. The Climate Displaced Persons Act represents a forward-looking approach through which the United States could become a global leader in shaping durable, effective, and people-first solutions to the climate crisis at the moment when it is needed most. The CDPA recognizes that protection and pathways for climate-displaced people who have crossed borders are needed alongside resources to prepare and adapt to the effects of climate change where people are. Refugees International is proud to support this much-needed legislation.” – Refugees International’s President Jeremy Konyndyk “Climate change is disproportionately impacting the most vulnerable, marginalized and oppressed people on the planet, including forcibly displacing millions from their homes. Knowing its outsized global emissions and historic responsibilities, the US has failed to provide adequate climate adaptation support to help people stay, while also failing to adequately protect those at its own borders. As an organization that has heard first hand from affected populations, we feel Senator Markey’s leadership on the Climate Displaced Persons Act is vital - a crucial and welcome opportunity for the US to demonstrate its commitment to regional and international partners on both climate change action and the protection of displaced persons at a time when such cooperation is urgently needed.”-- Amali Tower,Founder and Executive Director of ClimateRefugees Our work towards a safe climate and future for all is rooted in justice, which means it must center the lives, safety, and wellbeing of people most impacted by climate change. As climate-related disasters intensify, we know that more and more people, particularly in the Global South, will be displaced as their homes are rendered uninhabitable. The U.S. disproportionately causes and exacerbates climate change, yet, as the CDPA states, ‘our domestic [and] international migration policies do not reflect the realities of climate-related displacement.’ 350.org calls on the U.S. to enact the CDPA and welcome the ‘shared responsibility of climate change adaptation, global disaster risk reduction, & resiliency building.’” - Jeff Ordower, North America Director, 350.org. “Even though the United States has contributed the most to the climate crisis, it is countries in the Global South that bear the brunt of climate change. The Climate Displaced PersonsAct recognizes the US’s role in making other nations and communities more vulnerable to climate impacts, and our responsibility to support those communities to adapt in place or through migration. As we head into the global climate talks at COP28, we applaud the reintroduction of the CDPA and urge Congress and the White House to take meaningful action to support and welcome climate-displaced people.” Tefere Gebre, Chief Program Officer, Greenpeace USA. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-new-agreement-with-china-on-fentanyl-could-be-major-step-forward-to-curb-opioid-crisis-in-new-york-but-now-we-need-to-hold-china-accountable-and-make-sure-there-is-compliance-senator-details-new-deal-with-china-to-crack-down-on-illicit-fentanyl-and-vows-to-watch-like-a-hawk-for-progress,"SCHUMER: NEW AGREEMENT WITH CHINA ON FENTANYL COULD BE MAJOR STEP FORWARD TO CURB OPIOID CRISIS IN NEW YORK, BUT NOW WE NEED TO HOLD CHINA ACCOUNTABLE AND MAKE SURE THERE IS COMPLIANCE; SENATOR...",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,Senate,NY,Charles E. Schumer,S000148,www.schumer.senate.gov,schumer,https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Schumer Led Bipartisan Delegation And Personally Met With China’s President Xi Last Month To Demand Immediate Action To Stop Fentanyl Coming To America Yesterday, President Biden — Citing Schumer’s Diplomacy — Announced New Deal To Crack Down On Chinese Companies Selling Fentanyl Precursor Chemicals, Increase Law Enforcement Cooperation With U.S., And Work At Senior Level To Directly Address Crisis Schumer: We Still Have To Watch China Like A Hawk As Part Of New Deal To Cut Flow Of Deadly Fentanyl In NY And Nation Following his personal meeting in China with President Xi Jinping last month, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer today detailed how the new deal President Biden has struck with China to crack down on the scourge of fentanyl could be a major step forward to curb the opioid crisis in New York, but said now more than ever it is imperative to hold China accountable and ensure there is compliance with their commitments. “The agreement President Biden has announced with China is a long overdue step which has the potential to help cut off the supply of fentanyl at its source and stop this drug before it ever enters our country and hits the streets of New York, but now it is more vital than ever to hold China accountable for the commitments they have made,” said Senator Schumer. “Fentanyl has wreaked havoc in New York and across America, with this crisis stemming in large part in China, where large chemical companies openly and illicitly sell precursor chemicals to buyers in places like Mexico, where it is manufactured and illegally shipped to our most vulnerable communities here in NY. During my visit to China last month we were pointed and direct with President Xi, I told him the devastating impact I have seen the opioid crisis have on New York families. I am pleased to see China take what could be a major step forward to cut off the flow of fentanyl and I am going to be watching like a hawk for progress.” Specifically, Schumer explained China’s has said it will take new action to enforce its own regulations against the companies which make precursor drugs in a major step to potentially cut off the flow of this deadly drug. A similar notice to industry in 2019 led to a drastic reduction in seizures of fentanyl shipments to the United States from China. Schumer said the U.S. also has information that that PRC police have taken law enforcement action against Chinese synthetic drug and chemical precursor suppliers. As a result, certain China-based pharmaceutical companies ceased operations and have had some international payment accounts blocked. This probably represents the first law enforcement action against synthetic drug-related chemical sellers by Chinese authorities since 2017. In addition, China and the United States will be launching a counter narcotics working group to bolster law enforcement and information sharing to cut off the flow or precursor drugs and illicit fentanyl. The U.S. and China have both said they will also start working and on an ongoing basis at the senior level to directly address this crisis and start working closely together to carry this initiative forward. In conjunction, Schumer said these long overdue steps have real potential to reduce the flow of these drugs into the United States and places like New York, and ultimately save lives. Schumer added, “Too many lives have been lost, and too many others are at stake, especially here in New York. Today is a pivotal step forwards in a decades long battle and I will be fighting to hold China’s feet to the fire and keep them accountable for their commitments to cut off the flow of fentanyl to America. I told President Xi that China taking steps to crack down on the sale of precursor chemicals would be a long overdue step to strengthening the relationship between our two nations and hope to see continued results from China in the near future.” Illicit fentanyl is trafficked into the United States primarily from China and Mexico, and is responsible for the ongoing fentanyl epidemic in New York and across the country. China is the world’s largest producer of illicit fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and their immediate precursors. Some officials estimate that China is responsible for over 90 percent of the illicit fentanyl found in the U.S. From China, those substances are shipped primarily through express consignment carriers or international mail directly to the United States, or, alternatively, shipped directly to transnational criminal organizations in other countries like Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean where the drug is then manufactured. In New York in 2020, 87.9 percent of all overdose deaths involving any opioid involved synthetic opioids, predominantly illicitly manufactured fentanyl like described above. In 2022, New York City saw overdose deaths reach record numbers at over 3,000, predominantly driven by illicit fentanyl. Most recent county by county data on the impact of the opioid crisis in New York can be found here. The additional enforcement and actions announced today will help tackle the spread of fentanyl directly by ensuring the chemicals used to make the illicit drug never reaches its targets, cutting off the manufacturing of the drug before it can reach streets in communities across America. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z