CITY NOW AT HIGH COVID RISK LEVEL: NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan released the following statement on May 17 on the city’s increased risk alert level: New York City has transitioned to a high COVID alert level, meaning now is the time to double down on protecting ourselves and each other by making choices that can keep our friends, neighbors, relatives and coworkers from getting sick. As a city, we have the tools to blunt the impact of this wave, including distributing tests, masks and promoting treatments. Getting back to Low Risk depends on everyone doing their part and if we follow guidance, our forecasts anticipate this wave’s peak will not last long. What we do now can make all the difference.”

Vaccinations and boosters are as essential as ever. High-quality masks should be worn in all public indoor settings and crowded outdoor spaces. New Yorkers should consider avoiding higher-risk activities (such as crowded indoor gatherings) and any gatherings should be limited to small numbers. Those at higher risk should avoid crowded settings, especially if indoors. Everyone should get tested if symptomatic, were exposed, traveled or were at a large event. And people should stay home if sick. Treatments are available via same day delivery so talk to your doctor if you test positive or call (212) COVID-19, if you don’t have a provider.

To learn more about the Risk Alert Levels, visitjohn:

www1.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/covid/covid-19-alert-levels.pdf

HOCHUL CALLS WHITE HOUSE COVID-19 COORDINATOR: Governor Kathy Hochul released the following info regarding her call with White House Covid-19 coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha: “Today (May 16), I spoke with White House COVID-19 coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha about the state of the pandemic and the Administration’s preparation plans to ensure states have the resources, supplies, and distribution networks needed to manage potential surges across the country this summer and fall.

“We know that tools such as vaccines, boosters, testing and treatment have been critical to fighting COVID-19, responding to variants, keeping hospitalizations down, and saving lives. That is why I continue to call on Congress to pass additional federal funding, which will prove critical to helping states unlock further resources needed for future COVID-19 variants and surges.

“At the state level, we continue to make sure New Yorkers have access to these tools. We have already distributed more than 75 million over-the-counter COVID-19 tests to New Yorkers in recent months, and have stockpiled more for the future. We continue to partner with the Administration to get more New Yorkers fully vaccinated and boosted, as well as promote treatment options available to a majority of adults that help prevent hospitalizations. Additionally, I have asked my team for a full assessment from our state agencies on our overall future preparedness. Last Friday, I spoke with county executives about our state’s ongoing preparedness plans, and how we can work together to fulfill their needs on the ground.

“New York has long been at the forefront in the nation’s fight against COVID-19, and we will continue to keep New Yorkers safe, informed, and prepared.”

ADAMS BOLSTERS COVID-19 PREPAREDNESS: New York City Mayor Eric Adams on May 16 took action to bolster New York City’s COVID-19 preparedness and prepare New Yorkers for any future waves. Mayor Adams, the NYC Test & Trace Corps (Test & Trace), the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), and the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) announced the distribution of an additional 16.5 million at-home COVID-19 tests and 1 million high-quality masks that will take place over the next month to 1,600 New York City public schools and the over 1,000 community organizations, libraries, cultural institutions, houses of worship, and elected offices participating in the city’s At-Home Test Distribution Program. The distribution effort joins other measures to blunt the worst impacts of the current wave, including the distribution of 35,000 COVID-19 courses of treatment to date, which have prevented nearly 2,000 hospitalizations in the city so far.

The city has also distributed 20 million at-home tests to schools and participating community organizations to date — meaning this additional surge of tests will bring the total distributed at-home tests to over 36 million as the city prepares to potentially hit a high-alert level in the coming days — ensuring free at-home testing is widely accessible to New Yorkers across the five boroughs. Additionally, eligible New Yorkers are encouraged to take advantage of free, at-home delivery of COVID-19 treatments.

“It’s never been easier for New Yorkers to get a free at-home test, a high-quality mask, or access COVID-19 treatments in New York City,” said Mayor Adams. “At-home tests and masks provide reliable and convenient ways for New Yorkers to confidently and safely protect themselves and others and allow them to enjoy our city. I encourage all New Yorkers to go out and pick up a free at-home test as soon as they can to remain prepared, to mask up in indoor public settings, and to take advantage of the life-saving treatments we now have readily available to fight this virus. These combined tools not only are a blessing that we previously did not have access to, but also will allow us to combat this disease in the future, instead of in the past.”

“We now have the ability to test ourselves in the comfort of our own home, before deciding whether to dine out with friends, head out for work, or attend a family gathering with grandparents and little ones,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom.

“If you test positive for COVID-19, get treatment right away — it might help you stay out of the hospital,” said NYC Health + Hospitals President and CEO Dr. Mitchell Katz. “You can call 212-COVID19 to talk to one of our medical providers and get treatment delivered right to your door. If you need to go to the hospital, our facilities are always open no matter your immigration status, ability to pay, or how long you have lived in New York City.”

City officials strongly recommend that all New Yorkers mask up in public indoor settings to protect themselves and others. Through widely available tools — including at-home tests, COVID-19 treatments, masks, vaccinations, and boosters — New Yorkers have more tools at their fingertips than ever before to stay safe and healthy.

New Yorkers can find an at-home test distribution pick up location most convenient to them and their hours of operation by visiting the city’s COVID-19 testing page: nyc.gov/covidtest. New Yorkers with a disability who need assistance or have questions regarding at home test kits should call 311. Those who are deaf or hard of hearing and use American Sign Language can call via video phone at 646-396-5830.

New Yorkers who test positive using an at-home test can call 212-COVID19 to be connected to resources like free meal and care package delivery. Care packages contain personal protection equipment (PPE) for a household of three to quarantine, two rapid antigen at-home tests, and other necessities to help New Yorkers safely isolate.

Multiple COVID-19 treatments are available for people ages 12 and older, and can be delivered to New Yorkers’ homes for free. For more information on COVID-19 treatments, please call 212-COVID19 and press 9 or visit nyc.gov/health/covidtreatments. Calling 212-COVID19 provides New Yorkers an immediate connection to a clinician who can refer them to monoclonal antibody treatment or prescribe antiviral medications, like Paxlovid, and arrange to have it delivered to their home that same day for free.

DOHMH also put out a Health Advisory that urges all residents to use high-quality masks — such as KN95 and KF94 masks and N95 respirators — when indoors and in a public setting, including at grocery stores, building lobbies, offices, stores, and other common or shared spaces where individuals may interact, such as restrooms, hallways, elevators, and meeting rooms. The advisory notes particular importance for people who are at high risk of severe illness and death, namely those who are over 65 or who are unvaccinated.

DOHMH advises people at high risk of severe illness due to an underlying medical condition, older adults and people who are unvaccinated, including children under the age of five who are not yet eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, to avoid crowded settings and non-essential gatherings, particularly indoors. In addition, the DOHMH advisory notes that the impact of COVID-19 transmission is higher in settings with a high number of unvaccinated people.

FDA AUTHORIZES FIRST BOOSTER DOSE FOR KIDS AGES 5-11: Governor Kathy Hochul issued the following response to the FDA’s authorization of a first booster dose for children ages 5 through 11: “Today (May 17), renowned pediatric health experts and doctors at the Food and Drug Administration authorized the first COVID-19 booster dose for 5 through 11 year olds. I know this is particularly welcome news for parents and guardians all over New York who have been patiently waiting to give their children the extra layer of protection that the booster dose provides against serious illness from COVID-19. Following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendation, New York will be ready to offer boosters to this newly eligible population.

“Boosters are widely available, free, and safe. And, when it comes to protecting New Yorkers from COVID-19, they continue to be our best defense. Still, with just over half of eligible New Yorkers boosted, we need more New Yorkers—adults and children alike—to take advantage of this life-saving tool.

“So, my message to parents and guardians is this: on the heels of this very good news, let’s set an example for our kids. Get boosted, then get your kids boosted as soon as they’re eligible. There is no better time than now, so that our children are protected against COVID-19 as they head into summer vacation and gear up for the upcoming school year.

“At the state level, we will continue to make sure these tools are available to all New Yorkers as we work together to move safely forward through this pandemic.”

GOV’T KNOWLEDGE OF 9/11 HEALTH THREATS SOUGHT: Congressmembers Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12) and Jerrold Nadler (NY-10) sponsors of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, its reauthorization, the Never Forget the Heroes: James Zadroga, Ray Pfeifer, and Luis Alvarez Permanent Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Act, and the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act, asked New York City Mayor Eric Adams on May 12 to release “any documents related to 9/11 that are in (the City’s) files or emails from the period of September 11, 2001 through the spring of 2002.” The members continued: “While some documents may have been disclosed in past litigation, we do not believe this represents the entirety of the City’s files and demand a complete release.”

In their letter to Mayor Adams, the members state, “The time has come for a full accounting of the history of 9/11. The ongoing review and declassification of documents related to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s possible involvement in the 9/11 attacks ordered by President Biden was a critical first step in this accounting. Providing full transparency on what the government knew about the health risks at Ground Zero and how they potentially covered up that information will finally provide transparency to a too-often overlooked aspect of the attack’s history.”

Building on their two decades of advocacy for 9/11 responders and survivors, the members added: “Throughout our two decades of work with the 9/11 community to guarantee their health care and compensation, we have faced resistance from many in the federal government – namely to admitting that the toxins released in the attacks and during cleanup posed a serious and ongoing health hazard to those on the pile and in the vicinity. Those health risks, about which we immediately warned the government, have now caused enormous harm to thousands of responders and survivors. Many of them are now living with – and too many are dying from – 9/11 related health conditions caused by exposure to those toxins 20 years ago.”

RECORD $14M FOR NEW CLIMATE SMART COMMUNITY PROJECTS: Governor Kathy Hochul announced on May 12 a record $14 million is now available for the Climate Smart Communities Grant program to help municipalities take action to address climate change. Funding is available for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the ongoing impacts of climate change, including reducing flood risk, increasing natural resiliency, and relocating or retrofitting critical infrastructure.

“From hurricanes like Sandy and Ida, to seven feet of snow in Buffalo, we have seen our weather continue to grow more extreme each year, and it is critical that we support local efforts in protecting communities from the effects of climate change,” Governor Hochul said. “This record funding will help empower local governments to take bold action to meet the challenges driven by our changing climate, and help meet ambitious goals while setting an example for other municipalities to follow. New York will continue to support critical initiatives that will make a difference in the lives of New Yorkers while contributing to our State’s nation-leading climate efforts.”

Established in 2016, the State Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Climate Smart Communities Grant Program is a 50/50 matching program. It supports municipalities seeking to become certified Climate Smart Communities and implement projects that advance the State’s climate change goals by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating flood risk, and helping to prepare for extreme weather. The program supports the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which requires New York reduce greenhouse gas emissions 85 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. Since the program’s inception, DEC awarded more than $50 million to municipalities in support of local climate mitigation and adaptation projects. More information about this grant program is available on the DEC website.

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, “The successful Climate Smart Communities program has helped countless municipalities across the state do their part to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat the dangerous impacts of climate change. This additional and highest ever amount offered, helps build on Governor Hochul’s deep commitment to provide the resources communities need to adopt various climate initiatives while continuing New York’s most aggressive climate and clean energy initiative in the nation.”

Up to $12 million is available for grants of between $50,000 and $2 million for implementation of projects that could include:

In addition, up to $2 million is available for certification grants of between $10,000 and $200,000 for planning, inventory, and assessment projects that are aligned with 19 specific Climate Smart Communities Certification actions in the areas of greenhouse gas mitigation, climate adaptation, and land use.

Applications are due by 4 p.m. on July 29, 2022. To apply for this latest round of grants, visit the New York State Consolidated Funding Application (CFA), which is available online: apps.cio.ny.gov/apps/cfa/

These grants are part of a larger program to support community engagement in local climate action. More information about the certification program is available online: climatesmart.ny.gov/

The Climate Smart Communities funding programs are supported by the State’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). Among the many environmental victories in the 2022-23 State Budget, Governor Hochul succeeded in increasing the EPF from $300 to $400 million, the highest-ever level of funding in the program’s history and includes a $4.7-million increase for Climate Smart Community projects for a total of $15 million. The EPF supports climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, improves agricultural resources to promote sustainable agriculture, protects our water sources, advances conservation efforts, and provides recreational opportunities for New Yorkers.

NYS SENATE PASSES ELECTION REFORM PACKAGE: On May 17, the New York State Senate passed a package of bills to reform election administration in the state. The legislation is designed to enhance voter service and improve professionalism, transparency, and accountability at the state’s boards of elections.

The Let NY Vote coalition and members of its Board of Elections Reform working group – Bard College Center for Civic Engagement, Bethlehem Morning Voice Huddle, Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law, Brooklyn Voters Alliance, Center for Law and Social Justice at Medgar Evers College, Chinese-American Planning Council, Citizens Union, Common Cause New York, Dutchess County Progressive Action Alliance, Generation Vote, Indivisible Scarsdale, League of Women Voters of New York State, New York Democratic Lawyers Council, Stand Up America, True Blue NY, Vote Early NY, Westchester for Change, and YMCA of Greater New York – had the following reaction:

“With today’s vote, the New York State Senate has taken a vital first step toward strengthening election administration and ensuring fair, professional, and accessible elections for all New Yorkers. Now the Assembly and the Governor must act on this package to promote quality service for every New York voter.

“This legislative package would begin to address the problems that New York voters face election after election as a result of dysfunction at the state’s boards of elections. These burdens most acutely affect groups that are underrepresented as a result of unfair barriers to the ballot, including people of color, working and low-income people, people from language-minority communities, students, and people with disabilities. This legislative package is essential to creating a truly inclusive and multiracial democracy in New York and improving the public trust in our democratic institutions.

“The legislation that the State Senate passed today proposes well-established national best practices in election administration to professionalize boards of elections statewide, and brings transparency and accountability to government processes that have been kept in the dark for too long.

“Administering elections can be hard, resource-intensive work, with unpredictable challenges. These reforms would better prepare New York’s election administrators to meet these challenges while improving the quality of voter service. This slate of bills is a great start to addressing the systemic flaws in New York’s election systems and more will need to be done in the future to build on the foundation they create.

“We applaud Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Senate Elections Chair Zellnor Myrie, the bills’ sponsors, and the full Senate for their leadership on this and other democracy reforms in recent years. We urge the Assembly and Governor to enact this package.”

SENATE PASSES SECRECY BAN IN DEVELOPMENT DEALS: Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris announced the Senate passed his legislation (S.1196/A.9092) that would ban the state and local governments from entering non-disclosure agreements at the insistence of private corporations engaging in economic development talks.

“New Yorkers deserve full transparency when public dollars are used and private corporations should not have the power to dictate what governments can and cannot do,” said Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris. “I am glad the Senate is passing important economic development reforms including my bill to prohibit non-disclosure agreements in economic development deals.”

State freedom of information laws already contain provisions regarding the disclosure of information to the public and exceptions thereto when sensitive data is involved.

Assembly Member Michaelle Solages said, “It is undemocratic for government officials and entities to negotiate deals in secret. We owe the taxpayers of New York State transparency, and accountability. I am proud to be advocating alongside Senator Gianaris to ban public officials from entering into non-disclosure agreements when negotiating with private companies.”

Pat Garofalo, Director of State and Local Policy at the American Economic Liberties Project, said “Large corporations in New York and across the country are using non-disclosure agreements to scam local communities and states out of billions in taxpayer dollars behind closed doors. By banning these secret deals, New York’s S.1196 will bring transparency and accountability to a public policy area desperately lacking both and ensure local communities have a say in local development. We commend Senator Gianaris for championing this vital legislation, and hope the bill quickly passes the legislature and is signed into law. Other states soon follow New York’s great example.”

BIDEN INVOKES DEFENSE PRODUCTION FOR BABY FORMULA: Days after U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand called on President Biden to invoke the Defense Production Act, the White House has announced it will move forward with this critical action. In response, Senator Gillibrand praised the swift response.

“I am grateful that President Biden has invoked the Defense Production Act, which will enable the U.S. to ramp up domestic production of baby formula, address hoarding, and prevent price gouging. This swift action will help millions of American families and their babies in this time of need.”

Senator Gillibrand first called for President Biden to invoke the Defense Production Act on May 12th and sent the president a letter on May 16th urging him to act quickly on her proposal. Gillibrand also announced the introduction of her bicameral Emergency Infant Formula Act, which would take important steps to increase domestic production and expand sourcing of formula in order to alleviate the current crisis and prevent future shortages.

GILLIBRAND’S PLAN TO COMBAT BABY FORMULA SHORTAGE: In light of the ongoing baby formula shortage, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a video press conference to announce the introduction of her bicameral Emergency Infant Formula Act. The new legislation would take important steps to increase domestic production and expand sourcing of formula in order to alleviate the current crisis and prevent future shortages. This bill is led in the House of Representatives by Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA).

“No family in America should ever be concerned they cannot feed their babies. Corporate greed and malfeasance have put us in this dire situation and now we must act with urgency,” said Senator Gillibrand. “That’s why I’m introducing the Emergency Infant Formula Act, a bill that would authorize the president to suspend tariffs and significantly expand the sourcing of baby formula in times of emergency, and spells out the president’s ability to invoke the Defense Production Act to increase domestic production of formula. These key steps will help address hoarding, offset price gouging, and alleviate the stress and anxiety faced by too many parents desperately searching for food to keep their children fed.”

Following a recall at Abbott Nutrition, the nation’s largest infant formula manufacturer, reports suggest that roughly 40% of formula nationwide is out of stock. Compounded by supply chain disruptions as a result of the pandemic, this recall has created a life or death situation for many of the millions of families that depend on formula to feed their infants, and without immediate action to speed up the production and distribution of formula, babies who rely on formula may go hungry or starve. Senator Gillibrand’s plan will help ensure that desperately needed formula gets to vulnerable children and families as quickly as possible.

Specifically, the Emergency Infant Formula Act would:

Last week, Senator Gillibrand had also sent a letter calling on President Biden to invoke the Defense Production Act to urgently address the current baby formula shortage.

A champion of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Gillibrand leads the annual effort to fully fund WIC and to provide supplemental funding for baby formula. She also supports the bipartisan WIC Healthy Beginnings Act, which promotes competition and quality for infant formula manufacturers by creating an online database to streamline bids from formula manufacturers to state WIC programs. Recently, she cosigned a letter led by Senator Murray calling on the Infant Nutrition Council of America (INCA), an association of the four major U.S. infant formula manufacturers, to increase infant formula production and distribution, and prevent future supply chain disruptions. Gillibrand is also a cosponsor of the Supply Chain Resiliency Act, which would help alleviate current supply chain bottlenecks and prevent future disruptions by reducing reliance on long supply chains and investing in American companies. She cosigned a FY23 appropriations letter requesting $20 million in funding for the Maternal and Infant Health and Nutrition programs at the FDA to help provide sufficient staffing for pre-market reviews of infant formula and rapidly respond to recalls. Together, the success of these efforts would be instrumental in preventing a crisis like the one being felt now across the nation.

MALONEY APPLAUDS BIDEN SIGNING SAFE SLEEP FOR BABIES: On May 16, Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, the Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, issued the following statement in response to President Biden signing the Safe Sleep for Babies Act into law: “I am pleased that President Biden has signed the Safe Sleep for Babies Act, which bans dangerous inclined sleepers and crib bumpers that have been linked with hundreds of infant deaths.   My Committee’s nearly two-year investigation revealed that deficient safety reviews, unscrupulous marketing practices, and flaws in our nation’s consumer product safety system allowed companies to keep these products on the market. Too many families have suffered an unimaginable and totally avoidable loss. While nothing will bring back their loved ones, with the passage of this law, we can at least ensure that babies will no longer be put at risk by these dangerous products.”

On August 13, 2019, former Chairman Elijah E. Cummings launched an investigation into the recall of infant inclined sleep products that had been reportedly tied to dozens of infant deaths.

On June 2, 2021, Chairwoman Maloney issued a statement following Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) decision to pass a rule banning infant inclined sleep products.

On June 4, 2021, Chairwoman Maloney issued a statement following CPSC’s decision to issue recalls of Mattel’s Rock ‘n Glide Soother and Soothe ‘n Play Glider.

On June 7, 2021, Chairwoman Maloney held a hearing to examine the Committee’s staff report, which revealed Fisher-Price ignored repeated warnings that their Rock ‘n Play endangered babies.

MAYOR, DOE REVERSAL ALLOWS COMMUNITY INPUT: Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, Assembly Members Zohran Mamdani, Brian Barnwell, and Cathy Nolan, and Council Members Tiffany Cabán and Julie Won learned that the Department of Education has decided, after intense pressure from local officials and families, to give all district superintendents the opportunity to reapply and interview for their positions. The western Queens community had learned last week that Dr. Phil Composto, of District 30, would not be invited to participate in the final interview round, the only one in which the public is allowed any input.

“I am pleased the Mayor and Chancellor listened to our community and are giving the public a chance to be heard as these superintendents go through the process,” said Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris. “I appreciate that the entire school community banded together and because of our united efforts, we were able to affect change.”

Assembly Member Zohran K. Mamdani said, “The Mayor and the Chancellor’s latest decision is a testament to the collective power of our district’s teachers, students, parents, and principals. Together, thousands of us called for Dr. Composto to have the chance to present his candidacy in front of our school community and now, that is what we will get.”

Assembly Member Brian Barnwell said, “The DOE made the right choice opening the interview process and including existing superintendents. We need to make sure before decisions of this magnitude are made the public has a say, and I encourage everyone to participate in CEC 30’s upcoming town hall.”

Council Member Tiffany Cabán said, “I am relieved to hear that District 30’s long-time superintendent will be given an opportunity to move forward in the public engagement part of the hiring process. The person who serves in this role has an enormous responsibility—not only to our district’s students, teachers, parents, and administrators—but to the broader District 30 community. Due to the strong organizing partnership between our district’s school community, elected officials, and labor unions, we were able to ensure that the current superintendent will be fairly evaluated alongside new candidates. I thank the Chancellor and Department of Education for listening to the voices of community members and reevaluating their decision and look forward to hearing from all of the potential candidates for District 30 superintendent.”

Council Member Julie Won said, “Parents will now be able to have a voice in the choice of leadership for District 30. The community organized quickly and efficiently and I’m glad to see the Mayor reverse his decision” said Council Member Julie Won “Now we must hold them accountable to listen to parents as this process proceeds.”

NOLAN ON DOE INCLUSION OF COMMUNITY INPUT: Assembly Member Cathy Nolan said, “I am so grateful to Mayor Eric Adams and Chancellor David Banks for listening to the voices of parents in New York City School Districts 24 and 30. It is very important that outstanding, collaborative leaders and educators like Dr. Composto and Ms. Taub-Chan be given every opportunity to continue in their service. I am now hopeful that, due to the respectful attention given to parent voices, there will be more positive outcomes for our children.”

MAYOR MEETS LEGISLATORS ON SCHOOLS CONTROL: State Senator John Liu discussed the May 17 meeting with Mayor Adams on mayoral accountability of NYC’s school system: “Although I’ve had ongoing discussions with the Mayor and Chancellor for months about mayoral control, their coming up to Albany today was an excellent move as many fellow legislators were able to share their questions and concerns with them directly. Mayor Adams was direct about what his administration and New York City schools need and what we can hold him accountable for.

“I expect a resolution on the issue of mayoral control soon. We won’t see a return to the local school board system of 20 years ago, nor will we see a 4-year extension of mayoral control without any changes. I expect that he will retain control so the public, including parents, educators, activists, and legislators can hold him accountable, but there will also be changes so that parents will have more meaningful input into how our schools are run.”

ADAMS: TO CHANGE THE WORLD, PROTEST & PROTECT: Standing before thousands of graduates at Pace Universityʼs Commencement, Mayor Eric Adams on May 16 praised the uniqueness of the American Dream and said that in order for it to be realized, people must not only shine a light on injustices facing society, but they must then take action to protect the afflicted and those who are suffering.

Speaking to roughly 15,000 people—including 3,500 graduates, 2,800 from the Class of 2022 at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens the Mayor listed a series of protests he was involved in over decades and said whether it is an issue with gun violence, homelessness, or other societal injustices, people must fight for what they think is right.

“Here is my message to graduates: Yes, protest. But then protect,” said Mayor Adams. “You are what the American Dream is all about … As long as you dream. As long as you fight for what is right, this country will be the country we want it to be.

“All of us are imperfect,” he continued. “All of us are trying. All of us are fighting for the America we want.”

The ceremony marked the first time that Pace held a combined commencement for graduates from its campuses in New York City, Pleasantville and from its Elisabeth Haub School of Law in White Plains. Students from the Classes of 2020 and 2021, who were not able to have a traditional celebration due to pandemic-related restrictions, participated in what was the largest ceremony in the history of the University.

In addition to Mayor Adams receiving a Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, degree during the main ceremony, Congresswoman Grace Meng received a Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, degree at the ceremony for the Elisabeth Haub School of Law. Baroness Ariane de Rothschild ʻ88 MBA ʻ90, also received a Doctor of Humane Letters degree, honoris causa, from the Lubin school of Business. Both Meng and de Rothschild addressed graduates at their respective ceremonies.

“Graduates, my message to you today is simple,” said Pace President Marvin Krislov. “I want you to remember that change is inevitable. Nothing is forever. As a 2020 graduate told me when she watched her final semester turn remote: tomorrow is not guaranteed.

“This, I believe, is the biggest lesson of the past two years,” Krislov continued. “Who would have anticipated this pandemic? Who would have anticipated our political upheaval? Our powerful racial and social justice movement? War in Europe? But the very fact that nothing is forever is exactly what gives us hope for the future. Everything changes. Things will change. You can change things. You will change things. And that is what we have taught you at Pace. We have taught you about your field, but we have also taught you how to think. How to interact. How to be lifelong learners. How to be flexible. How to make positive change.”

Students celebrating this exciting achievement were a mix of undergraduate, graduate, law, and doctoral students, spanning a variety of disciplines and future careers, such as nurses and physician assistants, cybersecurity experts, lawyers, accountants, teachers, performers, and much more. After the main event, ceremonies took place throughout the day and across the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. A DJ entertained students and their families in a celebratory atmosphere.

During the main ceremony, Pace awarded members of the New York City and Westchester communities who exemplify the Pace motto of Opportunitas, or creating opportunities for people, with the Opportunitas in Action Award. Marco Damiani, CEO of AHRC NYC, the largest organization in New York dedicated to supporting people who are neurodiverse and helping them to lead full and equitable lives, was New York Cityʼs honoree. Joseph Kenner, CEO of Greyston, a pioneering organization that unlocks the power of human potential through Open Hiring—a process that is open to anyone who wants to work, without background checks, resumes, or interviews—was Westchesterʼs honoree. For over 40 years at its world-renowned Greyston Bakery in Yonkers—which makes the brownies included in Ben & Jerryʼs products and packaged brownies for Whole Foods Market—Kennerʼs organization has offered jobs to hundreds of people who otherwise faced obstacles to employment.

CARMONA ON ADULT SURVIVORS ACT: New York State Assembly candidate Johanna Carmona released the following statement on the Adult Survivors Act: “I am so pleased to learn that the NY State Assembly will be taking up the Adult Survivors Act this legislative session. Assemblywoman Cathy Nolan, who endorsed me in part because of my commitment to uplifting victims, is a cosponsor of this important legislation. As an expert in the field of special victims, I look forward to implementing laws and legislation that uplift and empower survivors.”

HOCHUL’S ORDERS TO COMBAT DOMESTIC TERRORISM: In direct response to the white supremacist act of terror at a supermarket on Saturday, May 14 in Buffalo, Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled on May 18 a comprehensive package to combat the steady rise in domestic terrorism and violent extremism, strengthen and close loopholes in state gun laws and crack down on social media platforms that host and amplify content that promotes and broadcasts violent, lawless acts and endangers our communities.

“The horrific and despicable act of terror committed by a white supremacist this past weekend in Buffalo showed that we as a country are facing an intersection of two crises: the mainstreaming of hate speech – including white nationalism, racism and white supremacy – and the easy access to military-style weapons and magazines,” Governor Hochul said. “This is a wake-up call and here in New York we are taking strong steps to directly address this deadly threat. Today, I issued Executive Orders to devote substantial resources and focus toward combating the troubling surge in domestic terrorism by identifying radicalized individuals and tracking their threats amplified on social media, and further empower State Police to keep guns away from dangerous people. I am also issuing a referral letter to the Attorney General to investigate social media’s role in the Buffalo shooting, and am calling for the passage of several pieces of legislation that will help law enforcement get more guns off the street.”

“We will continue to confront this epidemic head-on, stamp out extremists who threaten our communities, strengthen the toughest gun laws in the country and do whatever it takes to keep New Yorkers safe,” Governor Hochul added.

“The terror attack in Buffalo has once again revealed the depths and danger of the online forums that spread and promote hate,” Attorney General Letitia James said. “The fact that an individual can post detailed plans to commit such an act of hate without consequence and then stream it for the world to see is bone chilling and unfathomable. As we continue to mourn and honor the lives that were stolen, we are taking serious action to investigate these companies for their roles in this attack. Time and time again, we have seen the real-world devastation that is borne of these dangerous and hateful platforms, and we are doing everything in our power to shine a spotlight on this dangerous behavior and take action to ensure it never happens again.”

Among these measures, Governor Hochul has issued two Executive Orders. The first Executive Order is designed to fight the troubling surge in domestic terrorism and violent extremism frequently inspired by, planned on and posted about on social media platforms and internet forums. The Executive Order calls on the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services to establish a new unit, dedicated solely to the prevention of domestic terrorism, within the Division’s Office of Counter Terrorism. This new unit will focus on threat assessment management, disbursing funding to localities to create and operate their own threat assessment management teams and utilizing social media to intervene in the radicalization process. It will also educate law enforcement members, mental health professionals and school officials on the recent uptick in domestic and homegrown violent extremism and radicalization, as well as create best practices for identifying and intervening in the radicalization process.

The Executive Order also calls on New York State Police to establish a dedicated unit within the New York State Intelligence Center (NYSIC) to track domestic violent extremism through social media. The unit will develop investigative leads through social media analysis, with a specific focus on identifying possible threats and individuals motivated by radicalization and violent extremism. Finally, the Executive Order calls on every county to perform an exhaustive review of its current strategies, policies and procedures for confronting threats of domestic terrorism.

The second Executive Order will require State Police to file for an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) under New York State’s Red Flag Law whenever they have probable cause to believe that an individual is a threat to themselves or others.

Governor Hochul also issued a referral to the Office of the Attorney General under Executive Law Section 63(8) to investigate and study the social media platforms that were utilized by the Buffalo shooting suspect to broadcast, promote, and facilitate violence, espouse hate, and legitimize replacement theory. Findings from the investigation will be used to enhance and build on New York State’s strategy for combatting hate and violent extremism.

As part of the package, Governor Hochul is also pushing a series of legislative measures designed to help law enforcement investigate and prevent gun-related crimes. The Governor is proposing new legislation to close the “other gun” loophole by revising and widening the definition of a firearm, making more guns subject to various preexisting firearm laws.

Governor Hochul is also working with the Legislature to pass two bills to address and streamline the investigation of gun-related crimes. The first would set forth a process to require semiautomatic pistols manufactured or delivered to licensed dealers in New York to be microstamping-enabled. Microstamping is an innovative ammunition-marking technique that marks bullets and cartridge cases with a unique fingerprint each time a firearm is discharged. This allows investigators to link bullets and casings recovered at crime scenes to a specific gun and potentially other crimes. The second piece of legislation would strengthen gun reporting protocols by requiring all law enforcement agencies to report the recovery of any crime gun within 24 hours of their discovery.

These latest measures are part of Governor Hochul’s continued commitment to addressing the gun violence epidemic. The enacted State Budget includes meaningful and significant changes to public safety laws as well as $227 million for bold initiatives that will strengthen the gun violence prevention efforts of law enforcement and community-based organizations.

The recent spike in domestic terror attacks represents one of the most pressing threats to public safety across the United States. In the last decade, domestic terror attacks and plots have tripled nationally. In 2021, there were 73 terrorist attacks and unearthed plots in the United States, including 38 white supremacist and similarly like-minded terrorist attacks and plots.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Saturday’s shooting was an unfathomable tragedy that took the lives of 10 innocent New Yorkers. We have to do everything we can to help prevent this from happening again – that means keeping assault weapons off our streets and out of the hands of dangerous extremists and investigating the role online platforms are playing in spreading and promoting racist rhetoric. I thank Governor Hochul for taking this quick and decisive action and I will keep fighting at the federal level to pass commonsense gun reform, combat extremism, and keep New Yorkers safe.”

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said, “Together we need to stop the proliferation of guns in our neighborhoods. This effort includes tracking their use, reducing the inventory and identifying those weapons used in shootings. The Governor’s proposal continues to lead the State in that direction.”

Reverend Al Sharpton said, “It is imperative that government and legislators take very seriously the threat of race-based domestic terrorism and do all within its power to confront it; just as in the history of this country, legislators and governors rose to the occasion whether it be Jim Crow laws, women rights laws, and LGBTQIA rights Laws. We must rise to the occasion now of dealing with race-based white supremacy domestic terrorism with legislation. We cannot just sympathize, we must legislate and make laws.”

Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence Deputy Chief Counsel David Pucino said, “The horrific mass shooting in Buffalo, and the hate that inspired it, are something we cannot and will not ever accept. Our hearts are with the survivors and those who lost loved ones to this senseless, despicable act, but our eyes are on the lawmakers in this country who must do more. Communities across New York are demanding that more be done to protect them from gun violence, and we thank Governor Hochul for answering that call with these critical actions.”

JAMES INVESTIGATES SOCIAL MEDIA ROLE IN BUFFALO ATTACK: New York Attorney General Letitia James announced on May 18 that her office is launching investigations into social media companies in connection with the terror attack in Buffalo that claimed 10 lives and wounded three individuals. The investigations will look into the social media companies and other online resources that the shooter used to discuss and amplify his intentions and acts to carry out this attack. Specifically, the investigations will focus on those platforms that may have been used to stream, promote, or plan the event, including but not limited to Twitch (owned by Amazon), 4chan, 8chan, and Discord.

“The terror attack in Buffalo has once again revealed the depths and danger of the online forums that spread and promote hate,” said Attorney General James. “The fact that an individual can post detailed plans to commit such an act of hate without consequence, and then stream it for the world to see is bone-chilling and unfathomable. As we continue to mourn and honor the lives that were stolen, we are taking serious action to investigate these companies for their roles in this attack. Time and time again, we have seen the real-world devastation that is borne of these dangerous and hateful platforms, and we are doing everything in our power to shine a spotlight on this alarming behavior and take action to ensure it never happens again.”

James noted that it has been reported that the shooter posted online for months about his hatred for specific groups, promoted white supremacist theories, and even discussed potential plans to terrorize an elementary school, church, and other locations he believed would have a considerable community of Black people to attack. Those postings included detailed information about plans to carry out an attack in a predominantly Black neighborhood in Buffalo and his visits to the site of the shooting in the weeks prior. The shooter also streamed the attack on another social media platform, which was accessible to the public, and posted a 180-page manifesto online about his bigoted views.

The Office of the Attorney General received a referral from Governor Hochul to conduct this investigation pursuant to New York Executive Law Section 63(8), which permits the attorney general to investigate matters concerning public peace, public safety, and public justice and to subpoena witnesses and compel the production of documents.

SUOZZI: ‘NRA HAS BEEN ENABLED BY POLITICIANS’: Congressman Tom Suozzi released the following statement: “The NRA owns too many in Congress – mainly Republicans and a few Democrats – and the tragedy in Buffalo is more proof of the evil they have helped unleash.

For 30 years I have seen the NRA enabled by politicians who do their bidding. We must continue to push Congress, but to suggest that Congress will now, suddenly and miraculously, solve this crisis is morally unacceptable and deceptive. Congress has not acted because too many members are afraid of the NRA, as they have been for decades.

Let’s really take this crisis on, not with empty promises, but with real leadership. State and local police, interstate coordination, proper implementation of the new Red Flag law, coordination with schools and mental health professionals, if run properly and held accountable by our leaders, will address our gun crisis and the curse of racism and hatred.”

PARKS, USACE ON ROCKAWAY BEACH OPERATIONS PLAN: NYC Parks and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released the following statement on May 17 to the effect that they “have been partners on this project since its inception, and this year is no different. The critical resiliency work being done in the Rockaways will protect the local residents in the surrounding community from the increasing impacts of the severe storms we experience in New York City; it will slow down erosion caused by climate change, and ultimately expand beach access for decades to come.

“The Summer 2022 operational plan that we collaborated on allows us to keep as much of the beach safely open as is possible, with only six blocks closed to sand access and swimming as construction moves forward. The impact of the work that the Army Corps has already done in the Beach 30’s is a prime example of how successful these groins are in keeping the sand in place. It has allowed us to bring swimming back to an area that has not been open in years.

“We look forward to millions of New Yorkers flocking to these beaches this summer to enjoy the sun, sand and the great food that Rockaway has to offer. This project consists of a reinforced dune system designed to block storm surge and new and extended tapered groins. These stone groins are jetty-like structures extending out into the ocean intended to trap sand and reduce beach erosion and help maintain a critical natural buffer between the Atlantic Ocean and local communities. The full details of this summer’s Rockaway beach operations plan can be found on Parks’ dedicated webpage.”

ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY: Alan Feuer, Post Commander, American Legion, Dept. of NY, Post 1836-Boulevard Gardens, Woodside released the following announcement: The Boulevard Gardens Annual Memorial Day Ceremony will be held on Monday, May 30, at 10 a.m. at the Archway opposite CVS.

The following elected officials will be present and will be making remarks:

Queens Deputy Borough President Young.

Also expected to attend and make a statement is BNY Mellon U.S. Chair Alister Murray.

The event is sponsored by American Legion Post 1836 and BNY Mellon VETNET.

‘PROTECT ABORTION RIGHTS FOR SERVICE MEMBERS’: Following the publication of the draft majority opinion overturning Roe v. Wade, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand led seven of her colleagues in writing a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin urging him to act proactively to protect service members’ abortion rights. If the draft opinion goes into effect, hundreds of thousands of troops, dependents, and DoD civilians stationed in states that ban abortion will lose access to lifesaving reproductive health care and may even face criminal prosecution. The senators are urging the Secretary to implement policy changes to grant service members in need of an abortion permission to travel across state lines to access reproductive health care and abortions.

Addressing the leaked draft opinion, the Senators wrote, “If the opinion goes into effect, hundreds of thousands of troops, dependents, and DOD civilians will lose access to safe abortions and potentially face criminal prosecution for exercising a fundamental human right—creating a scenario where servicemembers’ reproductive and healthcare rights would become dependent on their duty station.”

The senators pushed the secretary on what steps the Defense Department is taking, writing, “at a minimum, you and your staff should consider implementing policy changes to allow servicemembers to obtain, for example, special liberty or permissive temporary additional duty permissions in order to travel out of state for reproductive healthcare and abortions if they are stationed in a jurisdiction that curtails these rights after the Dobbs decision is issued.”

The letter was also signed by Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Angus King (I-ME).

HEARING ON UNIDENTIFIED AERIAL PHENOMENA: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement on the May 17 House Intelligence Committee hearing on unidentified aerial phenomena:

“We are grateful to the House Intelligence Committee, especially subcommittee Chairman Carson and Ranking Member Crawford, for hosting today’s hearing on unidentified aerial phenomena. Public congressional interest in this issue will contribute toward countering the stigma faced by service members and others in reporting their own encounters with UAP, thereby improving our own data collection to help resolve this national security issue.

“The language we secured in the National Defense Authorization Act made it clear that the Department of Defense and other agencies must urgently approach this issue in a broad manner and consider all origins of UAP, known or unknown. The level of bipartisan interest from the national security committees in Congress – as well as from the American people – make it clear that the Department cannot delay in staffing the NDAA-established office, developing a science plan, and integrating already existing data to properly investigate these phenomena. Our national security demands that the Department move on this issue with haste and maintain transparency with Congress.”

SJU BREAKS GROUND FOR $106M HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER: Governor Kathy Hochul and St. John’s University announced the groundbreaking of St. John’s University’s $106 million Health Sciences Center, a new 70,000 square foot energy-efficient academic building with classrooms, laboratories, simulation facilities, office space, collaborative spaces, and outdoor terraces. The new Health Sciences Center is anticipated to open Fall 2024 and will be the permanent home of the new undergraduate nursing program at St. John’s University. The Health Sciences Center is supported by a $5 million New York State Higher Education Capital Matching Grant from the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York and a $700,000 Empire State Development grant from Round XI of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative.

“For the last two years, New York’s nurses have been on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we owe each and every one of them a debt of gratitude,” Governor Hochul said. “This new state of the art Health Sciences Center at St. John’s University will be crucial to educating the next generation of New York’s best and brightest nurses, ensuring they are ready to step up and protect their fellow New Yorkers when they are needed most.”

The Health Sciences Center will house classrooms, state-of-the art simulation suites, and modernized lab space. Simulation education is a key component of healthcare education, which is useful in teaching traditional clinical experiences. St. John’s University will use simulation components to sharpen students’ disciplinary knowledge using acute care patient scenarios.

During simulation, clinical situations will be replicated in a controlled learning environment using manikins, standardized patients, or by virtual means to allow students to apply knowledge and skills without risking patient safety. The simulation scenarios are designed to encourage students to assess and manage patients, identify, and prioritize patient problems, and perform key interventions for effective patient care in a safe environment.

The groundbreaking of the Health Sciences Center coincides with International Nurses Day, which highlights the importance of the nursing profession.

When complete, the new facility will enable St. John’s University to train student-nurses with the most innovative training tools and techniques available. Applications for the University’s Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing are now being accepted and preparations are underway for the first cohort of students to begin classes in August. The new undergraduate nursing program is expected to produce approximately 125 nursing graduates per year.

State Senator Leroy Comrie said, “This groundbreaking is a glorious way to celebrate International Nurses Day, honor St. John’s University’s commitment to our community, and mark this beginning for the countless future nurses who will be expertly trained at this new Health Sciences Center. I am grateful Governor Hochul, and colleagues across government, saw the wisdom of New York’s multi-year investment in making this Health Sciences Center a reality. I look forward to continuing to partner with St. John’s in uplifting education, health, and our shared community.”

Assemblymember David I. Weprin said, “Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic we’ve relied on our hospitals and frontline healthcare workers to support us and sacrifice for our wellbeing. It was my honor to attend this morning’s groundbreaking ceremony for the new Health Sciences Center at St. John’s University. This facility is a critical investment in our healthcare education and community infrastructure. This International Nurses Day, I am proud to stand in support of our current and future healthcare heroes.”

President of St. John’s University Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. said, “Nursing is not simply a job or a career, it is a vocation—a true calling to service—the kind of compassionate service that is at the heart of the transformative Catholic and Vincentian mission of a St. John’s education. Today, with a major investment and expanded commitment to the health sciences, St. John’s is helping to answer that call.”

In the enacted Fiscal Year 2023 Budget, Governor Hochul delivered a historic $20 billion multi-year investment to create better working conditions for healthcare workers, with $1.2 billion dedicated to frontline healthcare worker bonuses, and a $4.5 billion investment in payment reform. Other landmark investments include $2.4 billion directed to improving healthcare infrastructure and $3.9 billion in funding to provide aid to hospitals struggling financially from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last year, Governor Hochul announced the “Nurses For Our Future” Scholarship. The scholarship covers tuition for 1,000 new or current healthcare workers to earn an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) at a two-year or four-year New York State public college or university.

FITCH RATINGS RAISES CITY’S FINANCIAL OUTLOOK: New York City Mayor Eric Adams hailed Fitch Ratings’ (Fitch) announcement of a revised New York City’s outlook upgrade from stable to positive for the first time in more than a decade and affirmed the AA- rating assigned to New York City’s General Obligation (GO) bonds. Fitch supported the revision by pointing to increased levels of budget reserves under the Adams administration and improved revenue performance as the city recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. The positive outlook positions the city for further rating upgrades should trends continue. This ratings action was taken several weeks after Mayor Adams released his Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) Executive Budget, which increased budget reserves to $6.3 billion — the highest level in the city’s history.

In affirming the city’s AA- GO Bond rating, Fitch credited the city’s “exceptionally strong” budget monitoring and control, which are demonstrated by consistent budget balancing and outyear gap management. The strong rating is also driven by Fitch’s assessment that city revenue growth will exceed inflation, and acknowledgment that its diverse revenue base and budget flexibility will protect against the impact of economic volatility.

“I made a commitment to New Yorkers that strong, responsible fiscal stewardship would be a hallmark of our administration — and this outlook upgrade shows that our approach is already bearing fruit,” said Mayor Adams. “From increasing our budget reserves to the highest level in city history to achieving billions of dollars in savings and making upstream investments to ensure the city is a better place to live, work, and raise healthy children and families, we are well-positioned to continue building an equitable recovery while preparing for the future.”

The outlook revision to positive and affirmation of the strong AA- rating validate the Adams administration’s financial strategy and strong fiscal management. In April, Mayor Adams released New York City’s $99.7 billion Executive Budget for FY23. The Executive Budget reflects more than $400 million in savings over FY22 and FY23 — bringing total savings achieved by this administration to more than $2.4 billion in those years — and nearly $4.0 billion in FYs23-26, the financial plan outyears. The administration also added $200 million to the Rainy Day Fund, bringing budget reserves to a historic level of $6.3 billion. By carefully managing resources in the FY23 Preliminary and Executive Budgets, the administration was able to make critical investments that support recovery, increase public safety, elevate youth and working families, and improve public spaces, which will make New York City a better place to live, work, do business, visit, and raise a family.

Fitch’s May 12, 2022 rating report can be found online.

APPLICATION OPEN FOR CAREY GABAY SCHOLARSHIP: Governor Kathy Hochul announced on May 17 that the State University of New York is now accepting 2022 applications for the Carey Gabay Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship honors Carey Gabay, an attorney and public servant who was tragically killed as an innocent victim of gun violence in 2015. This program provides full scholarships to five incoming SUNY students who exemplify Gabay’s commitment to social justice, leadership, and mentoring, as well as his personal story of academic success and overcoming his economically-disadvantaged background.

“Carey Gabay represented the best of us and with this scholarship, his dedication to justice lives on,” Governor Hochul said. “Students who are awarded the Carey Gabay Memorial Scholarship have the opportunity to honor his name and continue his legacy by leading our state forward toward a more fair and equal future, and I encourage all who are committed to creating a better New York to apply.”

Gabay grew up living in public housing and attending public school in the Bronx. After a successful high school career, he went on to graduate from Harvard University and Harvard Law School. He had a longstanding commitment to public service and giving back to those around him, and while at Harvard University, he ran to become the president of his undergraduate student body. During his career, he worked tirelessly in public service, beginning in 2011 as assistant counsel to the former governor and later as first deputy counsel for the Empire State Development Corporation.

The Carey Gabay Memorial Scholarship will once again award full scholarships to five students to attend four-year SUNY colleges beginning in the 2022-23 school year. These scholarships will cover all costs of attendance, including tuition, room and board, college fees, books and supplies, and transportation and personal expenses. Scholarship recipients will also participate in a mentoring program. Applications are available here and are due by June 30, 2022.

RICHARDS ENDORSES ZIMMERMAN FOR CONGRESS: Queens Borough President Donovan Richards has endorsed long-time advocate and Long Island businessman Robert Zimmerman for Congress.

Queens Borough President Richards: “Robert Zimmerman will serve the Borough of Queens with passion and dedication. He is a strong leader who we can count on to deliver results for our neighborhoods and enhance our quality of life by standing up for public safety, organized labor, and the unacceptable airplane noise in our communities. At this very critical time, we need Robert Zimmerman in Congress to make sure infrastructure dollars come back to Queens to meet our sustainability goals for a cleaner environment. I am proud to endorse Robert’s candidacy. He will be a true champion for the Borough of Queens in the Halls of Congress.”

Supporters state that Robert Zimmerman is an activist, Democratic Party Leader, and business owner running for Congress in New York’s 3rd District. A resident of Great Neck, Zimmerman has proudly been a leading advocate for defending voting rights, standing up to the climate crisis, protecting the right to a safe and legal abortion, and preventing gun violence, among other issues. Since entering the race for NY-03, Zimmerman has led the Democratic field in fundraising and endorsements from across the district.

The Democratic Congressional Primary is now scheduled for Tuesday, August 23rd. For more information on Zimmerman’s campaign, visit zimmermanforcongress.com.

HEALTH DEPARTMENT INVESTIGATING POSSIBLE MONKEYPOX CASE IN NYC: The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene announced on May 19 it is investigating a possible case of Monkeypox in New York City. The patient is being cared for at NYC Health + Hospitals / Bellevue. All the appropriate isolation protocols are being followed. The Health Department’s Public Health Lab will conduct preliminary tests, which — if positive — will be sent to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for confirmatory testing.

The Department’s epidemiologists will follow up with any individual who may have been in contact with the patient while infectious.

Monkeypox is uncommon in the U.S., but — in the rare circumstance where a positive case is identified — usually presents as a flu-like illness accompanied by swelling of the lymph nodes and followed by rash on the face and body.

PROPER BURIAL FOR UNCLAIMED VETS’ REMAINS PASSES SENATE: Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris announced the State Senate passed his legislation (S.1231) which gives New York’s veterans a dignified burial. The bill, which passed unanimously, requires affected counties and the city of New York to work with a veteran service organization to provide for the burial of a veteran whose remains are unclaimed.

“The men and women who served and sacrificed are deserving of a respectful burial,” said Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris. “It is important for our community to appropriately recognize our veterans and I am pleased my colleagues joined me in supporting this bill.”

“While it is among our highest priorities to provide better support for our living veterans, we must also do what is right for veterans who have passed away. No veteran should be left uninterred and this bill will ensure we coordinate efforts to ensure these remains are no longer left neglected,” said Assembly Member Pamela J. Hunter, who carries the legislation in the state Assembly.

Senator Gianaris’ legislation ensures unclaimed remains of veterans are afforded a dignified funeral and burial, even when veterans do not have a next-of-kin or the means to provide for their own burial. Local governments would work with a local veterans’ service organization which would contract with a funeral home to provide these services.

MALONEY VOTES FOR NEW RESOURCES TO COMBAT DOMESTIC TERROR: On May 18, in the wake of a hate-fueled mass shooting in Buffalo, Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) voted for legislation to strengthen the fight against domestic terrorism and better protect New York communities. The Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act will expand federal resources to combat violent extremism – with a particular focus on white supremacists – and better equip local law enforcement to address these deadly threats.

The previous weekend, in two hate-motivated incidents, 10 people were killed in a predominantly Black neighborhood in Buffalo and another was killed in a shooting at a Taiwanese church in Laguna Woods, California. These attacks have ripped through communities, stealing innocent lives, traumatizing survivors, and inflicting immense pain on those left behind.

“The House took bold action to strengthen our nation’s fight against the vile threat of extremist violence,” said Rep. Maloney. “Driven by hate, domestic terrorists continue to target communities of color, the LGBTQ+ community, and religious minorities. I am horrified by these despicable acts of bigoted violence, most recently in Buffalo where ten of my fellow New Yorkers lost their lives. By expanding federal resources to New York and across the country, the Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act will help prevent these heinous crimes and build a safer, brighter future for all Americans.”

In the past several years, incidents of domestic terrorism have struck communities around the country: historically Black colleges and universities have been terrorized by a wave of bomb threats; Asian Americans have been the victims of unconscionable violence tied to misinformation about COVID-19; 23 people were killed in El Paso in the largest terrorist attack targeting Latinos in modern U.S. history; counter-protesters were mowed down while expressing their anti-racist views in Charlottesville; and the sanctity of Houses of Worship—including the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, and the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin in Oak Creek—have been pierced by violence.

The Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act will:

MALONEY ANNOUNCES JUNE 8 OVERSIGHT HEARING ON GUN VIOLENCE: On May 19, Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, released the following statement announcing that the Committee will hold a hearing on the gun violence crisis on June 8. (twitter.com/OversightDems/status/1527249051980386310/)

In the last two years, the Committee has worked to investigate senseless gun violence. Last month, Chairwoman Maloney sent a letter to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, revealing a troubling pattern where a few dealers in the U.S. have sold thousands of guns later used in crimes.

In July 2021, Chairwoman Maloney, Rep. Robin Kelly, Rep. Ayanna Pressley, and Rep. Cori Bush, released a new GAO report showing that gun violence in the U.S. costs our health care system more than $1 billion per year for initial treatment.

HISTORIC $2B IN CHILD CARE FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES & PROVIDERS: Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the largest investment in child care subsidies in New York State history will be distributed—$2 billion to increase the number of families receiving child care financial assistance and the amount child care providers are paid for their essential services. The $2 billion in childcare subsidies includes $894 million in New York State Child Care Block Grant new funding passed in the recent State Budget, more than $500 million in funds previously allocated to local departments of social services districts that remains unspent, and more than $600 million in existing COVID-19 pandemic funding. As part of the Governor’s unprecedented commitment of $7 billion to child care over the next four years, these investments provide families with much-needed support, while also furthering New York’s economic recovery.

“I know firsthand how a lack of child care can hurt your career, your family and your future, as a working mother when I was forced to leave my job to care for my child,” Governor Hochul said. “These historic investments in New York State’s child care system will allow us to forge a new path forward for parents, especially mothers. It is the right thing to do, the moral thing to do, and will supercharge our economic recovery and support working families. Child care is an essential service, and in New York, we will continue to do everything in our power to make sure more working families have access to it.”

The funding, managed by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), will expand the initial eligibility levels for families in August 2022 to up to 300% of the federal poverty level ($83,250 for a family of four), up from 200%, extending eligibility to hundreds of thousands of young children in New York.

OCFS’ subsidy funding announcement comes on the heels of its recent release of $30 million in federal grant funding to expand existing licensed, registered or permitted child care programs in areas of the state without sufficient child care slots, known as child care deserts. These funds, which are part of the $100 million child care desert initiative approved in the 2021 Enacted Budget, are being made available through the American Rescue Plan Act. More information and a request for applications are available here. The other component of the child care desert funding, worth $70 million, opened in April.

As of the application deadline, OCFS received over 1,700 applications from individuals hoping to establish new child care programs in areas of New York State facing critical child care shortages as part of the $70 million made available in the 2021 enacted budget. Over half of these submissions target child care deserts specifically in New York City. Made available through the American Rescue Plan Act, these funds will help child care providers in underserved neighborhoods establish child care programs; cover start-up and personnel costs; recruit, train, and retain staff; and support staff in accessing COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. Award announcements are slated to begin in the coming weeks.

Earlier in April, the Governor announced major investments in child care among the highlights of the FY 2023 Budget, doubling New York’s support for child care subsidies. New York State is investing $7 billion over four years, reflecting that access to quality child care is critical to children, families and a statewide economic recovery. The state budget also expands access to high quality child care by increasing the child care market rate to the 80th percentile of providers’ rates in June 2022. This change will broaden the child care options available to families that receive child care assistance while also increasing reimbursements for child care providers. This increase makes New York State a national leader regarding payment rates.

Office of Children and Family Services Commissioner Sheila Poole said, “We are overjoyed with this unprecedented funding for child care assistance. This underscores the significance of child care access for our families. They deserve this, and our providers deserve this. The pandemic wreaked havoc in this industry, and these changes will help support those who need it most and will bolster our providers even more.”

Senator Chuck Schumer said, “As Majority Leader, I promised I would deliver the robust funding New York needed to come back from the pandemic stronger than ever, and now thanks to the American Rescue Plan New York is able to make the largest investment in child care in the state’s history. This investment means struggling families will get the financial assistance they need, more help for childcare providers, and eliminating childcare deserts. Affordable childcare essential to our economic recovery, and I am proud to have delivered the funding to make today’s historic news possible.”

MALONEY INTRO’S ACT TO IMPROVE MEDICAID MENTAL HEALTH COVERAGE: On May 21, Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12) introduced the Michelle Alyssa Go Act outside of the subway station where the namesake for this bill was tragically killed in January by a 61-year-old man who showed signs of schizophrenia, but lacked access to adequate, consistent care. While most people with severe mental illnesses are not violent, this horrific incident raised questions about how to address our country’s mental health system and led the Congresswoman to introduce this legislation to improve Medicaid coverage of mental health services.

Under current federal law, Medicaid is prohibited from covering stays for patients between the ages of 21 and 64 who are receiving mental health or substance abuse treatment in a facility with more than 16 beds. This prohibition, also known as the Institution for Mental Disease (IMD) exclusion, has been in effect since Medicaid was created in 1965 and has resulted in people like the individual who killed Ms. Go not being able to access care, as they do not have the money to cover these services out of their own pockets.

The Michelle Alyssa Go Act will repeal the IMD exclusion and allow facilities with more than 16 beds to be reimbursed by Medicaid. This legislation also requires facilities to meet nationally recognized, evidence-based standards for mental health or substance use disorder programs. The legislation is supported by the American Society of Addiction Medicine, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the Partnership for New York City, and the Treatment Advocacy Center.

“Four months ago, a young Asian-American woman named Michelle Go was tragically killed when a man pushed her in front of a moving subway train. A daughter, a sister, a friend, and a member of the New York Junior League, Go worked at Deloitte and spent her free time helping women and children in at-risk communities as well as the homeless. And what’s so devastating is that her death could have possibly been prevented, if only we had adequate mental health resources in New York City. Go was killed by a 61-year-old man who showed signs of schizophrenia, but lacked access to adequate, consistent care. That is why I am introducing the Michelle Go Act. Under current federal law, Medicaid is prohibiting from paying for care in facilities that have more than sixteen beds. This prohibition, also known as the institution for mental disease or IMD exclusion, has resulted in people like the individual who killed Ms. Go not being able to access care, as they do not have the money to cover these services out of their own pockets. The Michelle Alyssa Go Act will repeal the IMD exclusion and allow facilities with more than 16 beds to be reimbursed by Medicaid,” said Rep. Maloney.

RICHARDS, COUNCIL MEMBERS REZ TO ADVANCE CLIMATE CHANGE: Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. joined with City Council Members Lincoln Restler, James Gennaro, Shahana Hanif, Carmen De La Rosa, Jennifer Gutiérrez, and Kevin Riley to introduce a City Council resolution in support of the draft Climate Action Council Scoping Plan, calling on the Climate Action Council (CAC) and Governor Hochul to fully implement the clean energy and zero greenhouse gas emissions reduction standards of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA).

Three years after the historic passage of the CLCPA, which is nationally regarded for having the strongest greenhouse gas reduction requirements in the country, including a commitment for New York to achieve a net-zero carbon economy by 2050 and a 100 percent zero emission electric sector by 2040, the CAC is now holding statewide hearings at it prepares to develop a final scoping plan that will guide the regulatory, legislative, and budgetary actions the state will take in order to reach these goals. However, with powerful fossil fuel companies spending millions to undermine the state’s climate and environmental justice mandates, the future of the CLCPA and our state’s clean energy agenda is in jeopardy.

The purpose of this legislative resolution, called “Climate Plan to Protect New York” is to demonstrate that the authoritative voice of the Council — as representatives of over 8 million city residents — is behind the full implementation of the CLCPA and to call on the CAC and Governor Hochul to ensure that its clean energy, climate justice and climate change policy targets are met. In recent years the Council has passed bold new climate laws including Local Law 97 and a ban on gas hookups in new buildings. This resolution calls for similarly forceful actions statewide.

“Climate change isn’t some future threat. From Superstorm Sandy to Hurricane Ida and beyond, climate change has already ravaged this borough on more than one occasion. Fully implementing and funding the historic Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act will not only ensure New York’s place as a global leader on sustainability and renewable energy, it will save lives and protect our communities from future storms,” said Borough President Richards. “I’m proud to stand with my colleagues in government and environmental protection on such a critical issue, because there is simply no more time to waste.”

With nearly 70% of New York City’s power being produced by dirty fossil fuel combustion, and low-income and communities of color bearing an inequitable burden of pollution, the introduction of this resolution is intended to send a loud message – climate change is a clear and present threat to the health and sustainability of our communities and the state must keep its promise by meeting the clean energy goals of the CLCPA.

o   Year-by-year targets for transitioning to zero emissions electricity, widespread transportation electrification, and enhancement of transit, smart growth, and reduced vehicle miles traveled (VMT) through bike and pedestrian infrastructure expansions;

HOLDEN INTRO’S TWELVE ADDITIONAL BILLS: Council Member Robert Holden introduced 12 bills at last week’s stated meeting of the New York City Council to address a wide variety of non-partisan issues affecting New Yorkers.

Council Member Robert Holden commented, “I am proud to introduce another package of bills this week, presenting common-sense, non-partisan solutions to a wide variety of problems in our city, from parking issues to the integrity of our elections. I look forward to bi-partisan support for these measures from my colleagues.”

The bills introduced by Council Member Holden on May 20:

4.Another would ensure someone is available to direct traffic during temporary street closures by requiring street closing permit holders to have on-site a person who is authorized by law to conduct traffic. The NYPD and other persons authorized by the DOT would enforce this law.

JUSTICE DEPT’S UPDATES ON MENG’S COVID-19 HATE CRIMES ACT: On May 20, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) announced the Justice Department’s updates on her COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act that was signed into law one year ago that day. The Congresswoman had introduced the measure with U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI). The updates highlight new efforts to bolster hate crimes reporting.

“I am pleased that the Justice Department has announced updates regarding its implementation of my COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act. The progress of this legislation, and now law, has been extremely important to me personally and for millions of Americans across the nation as we look toward recovery from the trauma and hardships of the last two years,” said Rep. Meng. “These new provisions will improve our state and local infrastructure for hate crimes reporting, provide guidance to local and state law enforcement agencies on raising awareness about increased hate crimes and incidents, and ensure language is not a barrier to hate crime reporting. I am grateful for the partnership of Attorney General Garland and look forward to working further with the Department of Justice to combat incidents of hate crimes across the U.S.”

The series of updates the DOJ announced earlier today include:

ESTABLISHES COMMISSION TO CREATE ASIAN AMERICAN MUSEUM: U.S. Senator Charles Schumer and U.S. Representative Grace Meng announced the Senate passage of H.R.3525 by unanimous consent. The legislation establishes a commission to study the potential creation of a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture. Congresswoman Meng championed the bill during several sessions of Congress, testified about the legislation before two Committees, and led it to passage in the House of Representatives last month.

“I am elated to support and to have fought for this long-overdue step on the road to establish a great national museum dedicated solely to telling the story of Asian Americans throughout history,” said U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer. “From the beginning of our founding, Asian Americans have played a great role in shaping the country. They have worked hard, grown families, established businesses, made America better, and they continue to do so. Too much of their history is unknown and many students never come across these stories and lessons in school. That is disappointing, but it is also why this Asian Pacific American History and Culture Museum is so important, to show the greatness of the Asian American community—past, present and future. An Asian Pacific American History and Culture Museum would celebrate those achievements with all Americans and exalt our wonderful, growing, strong, beautiful Asian American community.”

“I am overjoyed that the Senate has unanimously passed my AAPI Museum Study bill,” said Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-NY). “Last month, my House colleagues voted to unanimously pass the legislation, and I am thrilled it now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. AAPI’s have been a part of America’s fabric and growth for generations, and this bill brings us one step closer to a physical museum where AAPI history, culture, and contributions to this nation would be displayed and preserved for future generations. As we reflect on our past, celebrate our present excellence, and dream of our future during this Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, this bill provides an opportunity to showcase the importance of telling our full and diverse American story in a national museum. Thank you to Majority Leader Schumer and Senator Hirono for their advocacy and support in passing this bill through the Senate in such a short time. I could think of no better way of closing out AAPI Heritage Month than having this legislation signed into law by President Biden!”

The “Commission to Study the Potential Creation of a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture Act” would create a commission of eight individuals with varied expertise in museum planning or Asian Pacific American history and culture to examine the feasibility of establishing, maintaining, funding and operating such a facility in the nation’s capital, possibly as part of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. which is the world’s largest museum and research complex.

RAJKUMAR, MOUNT SINAI HEALTH OFFER FREE MAMMOGRAMS: On May 9 Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven) hosted a Mammogram Screening Day, a free event by the Assemblywoman in partnership with the Mount Sinai Health System. At the event, community members received state-of-the-art 3D mammograms from the Mount Sinai Hospital at the Assemblywoman’s office.

“We loved teaming up once again with Assemblywoman Rajkumar,” said Dr. Laurie Margolies, Professor of Radiology and Director of Breast Imaging at Mount Sinai Health System. “She recognizes that routine mammograms are an essential part of women’s healthcare, and wants all her constituents to live their healthiest lives. They are fortunate to have the Assemblywoman on their side.”

The Assemblywoman has focused on increasing healthcare access to her constituents, as her district is underserved when it comes to healthcare. She recently brought doctors to her office to conduct free health screenings for her constituents. She was a leader in connecting her constituents with doctors during the days of the early pandemic, and made sure the health counsel was available in multiple languages to meet the needs of her district which is 72% immigrant. Her office also led in securing vaccination appointments for constituents when those appointments were hard to secure. Finally, her office has been a constant hub for COVID testing during the pandemic and a place to get necessary PPE.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Queens, and early detection can save lives. 20% of women in the borough eligible for mammograms do not receive one. The Assemblywoman is working to change that situation and expand access.

“I love my constituents and I am doing all I can for the sake of their health,” said Assemblywoman Rajkumar, who comes from a family of all medical doctors. “My district office is a community hub where we take care of the health and welfare of the community. It is my true passion to take care of the people of South Queens. It feeds my heart every day.”

MALONEY: ARTS INSTITUTIONS IN NY-12 RECEIVE NEARLY $3.2M: On May 19, Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12) announced the second round of recommended National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) awards for fiscal year 2022, with 76 awards totaling nearly $3.2 million for NY-12 arts institutions. The funding was made possible by the American Rescue Plan, which was signed into law in 2021. The institutions receiving funding are organizations serving communities traditionally underserved by government and those applying for federal support from the NEA for the first time.

“As our city works to recover from COVID-19 and the pandemic’s damage to our economy and cultural institutions, it is crucial that we provide our creative arts organizations with the funding necessary to ensure financial stability. said Rep. Maloney. “The NEA allows New York City to flourish as one of the centers of the world with regards to the arts.”

GILLIBRAND, RUBIO ON BIPARTISAN VA BURN PITS PACKAGE: On May 18, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Marco Rubio, original authors of the Presumptive Benefits for War Fighters Exposed to Burn Pits and Other Toxins Act, issued the following statement on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee deal to help veterans exposed to burn pits:

“This bipartisan agreement represents an enormous victory for service members across the country who have been suffering for years from their exposure to toxic burn pits. Under this agreement, our nation’s brave men and women in uniform and their families would no longer need to jump through unnecessary hoops to get the health care that they’ve earned.

“We are proud that our bipartisan Presumptive Benefits for War Fighters Exposed to Burn Pits and Other Toxins Act formed the centerpiece of the presumptive benefits section in this monumental bill. We thank all of our partners in this fight, especially Chairman Tester and Ranking Member Moran, as well as the Veterans Service Organizations, Jon Stewart, and John Feal for their tireless advocacy and support. We look forward to working alongside Senate leadership to get this bill on President Joe Biden’s desk as quickly as possible in order to uphold Congress’ obligation to our veterans, and most importantly, save lives.”

In March 2022, the House of Representatives passed the Honoring Our PACT Act, which included provisions of Senator Gillibrand’s Presumptive Benefits for War Fighters Exposed to Burn Pits and Other Toxins Act. Gillibrand originally introduced the bipartisan and bicameral War Fighters Act alongside Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Congressman Raul Ruiz (D-CA) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA).

The bill would create a presumptive service connection for more than 20 categories of diseases and streamline the process for veterans to obtain benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It would remove the “burden of proof” from the veteran to provide enough evidence to establish a direct service connection between their health condition and exposure.

ANNIVERSARY OF INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT, JOBS ACT: On May 18, Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) announced $6.7 billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has been allocated to New York in the six months since President Biden signed it into law.

The funding announced over the past six months is just the beginning of transformative investments that will help New York rebuild roads and bridges, replace lead pipes, expand access to high-speed internet, deliver cheaper and cleaner energy to households and businesses, and create good-paying jobs for hardworking families. Nationwide, more than $110 billion has been announced so far, with funding on the way for 4,300 projects impacting over 3,200 communities across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

“For years to come, the investments from this law will continue to rebuild our infrastructure and create good-paying jobs for hardworking New York families,” said Rep. Maloney. “The projects receiving funding in New York are critical – from the expansion of the Second Avenue subway, to the completion of the Gateway Project further connecting New York to the rest of America, and upgrades to modernize JFK and LaGuardia Airports. This historic funding is positioning New York City to thrive and will help secure a prosperous future for all New Yorkers.”

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act:

New York received a C- grade on its Infrastructure Report Card from the American Society of Civil Engineers this year, which detailed many deficiencies that require immediate attention. Below are key statistics on the condition of the infrastructure in our state of New York:

MALONEY RE-ELECTION RUN TO CONTINUE REPRESENTING NYʼS 12TH DISTRICT: Following the release of the special masterʼs final maps, Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney confirmed on May 21 that she will continue her campaign for re-election in New Yorkʼs 12th District.

“I am excited to announce that I will be running to continue to represent the 12th Congressional District. A majority of the communities in the newly redrawn NY-12 are ones I have represented for years and to which I have deep ties. In fact, I currently represent over 60% of the new NY-12. Regardless of whoʼs jumping into the race with our new maps, I know Iʼm the right leader for the people of New Yorkʼs 12th district, and I plan on running and winning come August 23rd. I am proud of my record of delivering results for my district, and Iʼm not done fighting for New York City. In the wake of the outrageous draft from SCOTUS, I will work harder than ever to protect a womanʼs right to choose and pass the Equal Rights Amendment. I have consistently been ranked as one of the most effective members of Congress by independent good governance groups.

“Too often qualified and accomplished women have been told to stand aside for the sake of menʼs egos. But I have a lifetime of experience standing up to powerful men. I was the first woman elected to represent NYʼs 12th District, the first woman to give birth while serving in the NYC Council, and the first woman to Chair the House Oversight Committee— and I refuse to be pushed around. Iʼm not scared of a fight. Iʼm ready to go above and beyond to earn the votes of the new NY-12 and make sure my constituents have the leader they deserve.” — Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney

CABÁN ANNOUNCES PARTICIPATORY BUDGETING RESULTS:

Council Member Tiffany Cabán announced: “Neary 3,000 total District 22 residents or students, ages 11 and up, cast votes as part of our 2022 Participatory Budgeting effort! That is a very inspiring exercise of direct democracy! And now for the winning initiatives…

“No one knows the needs and hopes of our community better than the community itself, and the winning initiatives could not be more worthy, exciting, and meaningful. I can hardly wait for next yearʼs PB process!”

—With contributions by Annette Hanze Alberts

This column was originated by John A. Toscano

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