Velazquez on State of the Union

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez released the following statement in reaction to the President’s State of the Union speech tonight:

“Tonight, President Obama laid out a bold vision for making our nation stronger, safer and more prosperous. As he said, it is critical that we renew the agreement that served this nation well for so long by promising economic security for those who work hard and play by the rules.

“Helping our children pursue the American dream should be a cornerstone of this agreement. Ensuring the widespread availability of a quality education is critical for the future of New York’s working families. The President’s plan for reducing the cost of college will help thousands of working students in New York who are holding down a job, while simultaneously pursuing a degree.

“Raising the minimum wage is another important element of this agreement. Working people across the country often juggle multiple jobs, while still struggling to put food on the table, make rent and pay their bills. I wholeheartedly agree with the President’s plan to not only raise the federal minimum wage, but index it to the cost of living. It is high time that we make this wage a living wage.

“Beyond assurances of economic security, working families deserve to feel safe in their communities. I was glad to hear the President make gun violence a centerpiece of his remarks. New Yorkers have lost too many of our children to this epidemic and it is appropriate this issue is receiving attention from the highest level of government.

“I was equally heartened that the President put the full weight of his office behind comprehensive immigration reform. The current system is indisputably broken. Not only does it fail to keep our country safe, but it unjustly and immorally tears families apart. It is my hope that 2013 can finally be the year when bipartisan progress is made on this vital issue.

“Our nation has many challenges ahead of us, but I am convinced that working together we can overcome them. I applaud the President for setting priorities and making the case for how our nation should move forward. ”