Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) led Democratic Member of the New York City Congressional delegation in calling for additional funds for the nation's Public Housing Authorities. In a letter to Congressional appropriators, Velázquez and her colleagues asked that $5 billion be provided for the Public Housing Capital Fund, with $600 million of those resources to be targeted toward capital repairs related to mold, deteriorating lead-based paint and other hazards.

Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) commented today on the passing of New York City architect Ricky Leung:

"Ricky Leung was an architect who understood that when we design buildings or plan neighborhoods, our foremost concern should be people and communities, not money. I remember fondly bringing him to Congress to testify on the importance of the Section 8 program.

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding the passing of Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (D-NY):

"Louise was a champion for working people, an advocate for justice and a trailblazer and inspiration for women everywhere. In the Rules Committee, she was a fierce fighter for Democratic policies and, equally important, for preserving a fair, open legislative process and the House's traditions.

New York, NY – Reps. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) commented on the East River helicopter crash:

"This crash is another tragic reminder that these helicopter tourist flights pose significant public safety risks to our community. At minimum, these flights should be suspended until there can be an exhaustive review of the safety hazards of operating these flights in such a congested urban airspace.

Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) issued the following statement after the tragic death of a pedestrian who was fatally hit by a vehicle in front of 1150 Metropolitan Avenue in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

"My heart is broken once again after another tragic pedestrian fatality in Brooklyn. My thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of the victim and with our entire community during this time.

Washington, DC – The House Financial Services Committee has approved two amendments authored by Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) today by voice vote. The provisions were adopted as part of the Committee's Views and Estimates on the Budget for fiscal year 2019.

"Housing issues are crucially important to all New Yorkers," said Velázquez. "I believe my amendments will make important improvements for renters and public housing residents living throughout the City,"

Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) issued the following statement after the tragic death of two small children, 4-year old Abigail Blumenstein and 18-month old Joshua Lew, who were killed by a driver while crossing 9^th Street at 5^th Avenue in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Abigail's mother, Ruthie Ann Blumstein who is pregnant, was also hit, but is reported to be in stable condition.

Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) issued the following statement six months after President Trump made the cruel decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and after Republicans' failure to pass a bipartisan solution.