Press Releases
Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) delivered the following remarks today on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives regarding the official end of the military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy:
"Mr. Speaker, two decades after its enactment, 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' is finally no more. At last, gay men and women can now openly serve in our military, without having to hide who they are.
Washington, DC – Joined on the steps of City Hall by New York City advocacy groups, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) today called on the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction (or "Super Committee") to protect federal housing programs that provide thousands of New Yorkers with affordable housing, while creating economic opportunity throughout the country. At today's event, Velázquez announced she is sending a letter to her colleagues on the deficit panel, asking them to spare housing programs from draconian cuts.
Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) today unveiled a new report detailing how the President's recently proposed "American Jobs Act" would boost job growth in New York City. Compiled from a range of data sources, the report finds New York City could gain 70,000 jobs through passage of the "American Jobs Act." Such a rise in employment would cut New York City's unemployment rate from the current 8.7 percent to 7 percent.
Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) delivered the following statement today during House floor debate on H.R. 2560 :
“As we debate how to avert the default crisis, we should acknowledge what got us into the current mess. The real reason that the United States faces this dilemma dates back to a series of irresponsible tax cuts. $2.5 trillion in tax giveaways -- that were unpaid for and went disproportionately to the wealthiest Americans -- put us on an unsustainable path.
Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) issued the following statement regarding the enactment of legislation in New York to recognize same sex marriage:
“Recognition of same sex marriage in New York is a historic step forward for human and civil rights. I commend Governor Cuomo for his steadfast leadership on this issue. Now, we must continue working at the federal level to repeal similar discriminatory policies like the Defense of Marriage Act.”
Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives regarding a privileged resolution to end the war in Afghanistan. Below are her remarks.
"I rise in support of this important resolution.
Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives regarding legislation that would terminate the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. Below are her remarks.
Washington, DC - Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) commented on passage of legislation in the U.S. House to repeal the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy:
“Today’s passage of H.R. 2965, Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Repeal Act, was a huge step forward in the civil rights fight for the GLBT community. I applaud its passage and was proud to support the legislation.”
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives today during debate on H.R. 847, the “James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act.” Following are her remarks:
New York - Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) commended the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for designating Newtown Creek for the National Priorities List, or “Superfund” status:
“Superfund designation is an important step toward restoring Newtown Creek into a source of pride for the community. A cleaner waterway will improve the quality of life for creek side residents and expand economic opportunities for local businesses.