Press Releases

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) spoke on the House floor today regarding the Republican so-called "Balanced Budget Amendment." Following are her remarks:

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) today introduced legislation aimed at making healthy foods more available for New York’s working families. H.R. 3291, the “Healthy Foods for Healthy Living Act,” would enable community based organizations such as schools, day care centers, food banks and senior centers to expand their stock of fresh fruits and vegetables. With obesity on the rise, the legislation is designed to address growing health problems like diabetes, hypertension and heart disease, all of which are linked to unhealthy eating.

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) commented today on the President's announcement that U.S. troops will fully exit Iraq by the end of the year:

"The full withdrawal of our brave men and women from Iraq is long overdue and I am pleased to see the day has finally come. Now, it is time to focus our efforts on bringing U.S. forces home from Afghanistan swiftly and safely."

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez joined other local officials and members of the business community today in announcing the commencement of renovation work on Federal Building #2 in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. The former federal facility has sat dormant for years, but, thanks to a new public-private partnership, is being redeveloped into a light manufacturing and retail business space. Velázquez hailed the project as an important step that will result in greater local economic opportunity.

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) today announced new legislation that would expand employment options for Americans residing in public housing. The "Affordable Communities Employment Act" (ACE Act) would improve how public housing agencies use funds they receive from the federal government, maximizing employment for public housing residents. With the unemployment rate for public housing residents reaching 27% (according to the Community Service Society), Velázquez noted that the legislation would be vital in restoring prosperity to New York.

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) today introduced new legislation, H.R. 3161, that would help raise awareness about ovarian and cervical cancers. The “Ovarian Cervical Cancer Awareness Act of 2011,” would focus educational efforts for gynecological cancers on these two most deadly conditions, empowering women with information to help protect their health.

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) today introduced new legislation, H.R. 3114, which would provide disadvantaged youth with the opportunity to serve their communities and acquire valuable job skills. The bill, the “Civic Corps Jobs Act of 2011,” would reduce recidivism among juvenile offenders by empowering them to serve their communities and acquire training for use in a future career.

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.