Press Releases

Washington, DC –According to Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY), a federal program to assist homeowners facing foreclosure is not being fully utilized. In a letter to the Treasury Department, Velázquez is urging Secretary Mnuchin to tap into the "Hardest Hit Fund," and to allow Puerto Rico to apply. Established in 2010, the Hardest Hit Fund contains federal funding for local housing agencies to carry out foreclosure prevention and relief solutions.

In Bicameral Letter, Lawmakers Demand Apology, Call on President to Acknowledge Official Death Toll and Improve Recovery Efforts in Puerto Rico

Washington, DC – Approaching the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Maria's landfall, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) is fighting to extend the deadline for affected homeowners and small businesses to secure a disaster loan under the Small Business Administration (SBA). To this end, Velázquez has introduced the "Access to Sufficient Capital for Everyone in Natural Disaster Areas Act of 2018," (ASCEND Act) a bill that would extend SBA disaster loan applications for an additional year.

Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement today recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month:

"Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity for all Americans to pay tribute to the history, culture and achievements of our Latino communities. Whether by starting new businesses, protecting our freedoms by serving in our Armed forces, or advancing scientific and cultural contributions, Hispanic Americans help shape every facet of American life.

Says President is Gaslighting Nation After Administration's Botched Maria Response

Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following in response to President Trump's latest Tweets on Puerto Rico.

New Official Fatality Count Almost 50 Times Higher than Previous Official Estimates

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement after President Trump referred to his Administration's response to Hurricane Maria as an "incredible unsung success."

"The President's remarks are not only tone deaf, but a moral affront to the 2,975 of our fellow citizens who we now know lost their lives to Hurricane Maria.

"The President should apologize."

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement marking the anniversary of the terror attacks of September 11th, 2001:

"On this day, 17 years ago, New York City and our nation suffered a horrific attack. The tragedy of September 11th, 2001 stole the lives of 3,000 innocent people and seared our City's soul forever.