Press Releases
Washington, DC – In the wake of Superstorm Sandy, the Small Business Administration (SBA) is approving fewer than 25 percent of loan applications for New York’s small businesses, leaving many without the resources they need to rebuild. More than six months after the storm, applicants are also facing significant delays related to loan processing, while those that have been approved are unable to fully draw on the funding they have been promised.
Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) issued the following statement marking Asian Pacific American Heritage Month:
"Those of us in New York City are especially aware of the valuable role that Asian Americans have played in strengthening our city, nation and local communities. As the Congressional Representative for Chinatown, I'm proud of the many contributions Asian Americans have made to our cultural and economic fabric.
Washington, DC– Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) has introduced legislation, H.R. 1846 the “Lower East Side Tenement National Historic Site Amendments Act,” which would expand the LES Tenement Museum’s National Park Service (NPS) designation by including its second historic site at 103 Orchard Street. The Museum’s first historic building at 97 Orchard Street has already been declared a “National Park Service Affiliate Site” in 1998.
Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez released the following statement regarding news that SUNY has withdrawn its proposal to close Long Island College Hospital:
Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez spoke today at a press conference where she unveiled new legislation aimed at addressing a number of housing challenges brought on by Hurricane Sandy. Following are her remarks as prepared for delivery:
Washington, DC - Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding the Passover Holiday:
"As we observe this year's Passover, it is always a privilege to see members of the community help each other prepare for the Holiday. These community and family values are what make this celebration so special. This year, in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, it is more critical than ever that we all unite to care for our vulnerable neighbors.
Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) voted against House Republicans’ budget. Velázquez spoke in opposition to the budget yesterday. Her floor statement is below:
“I rise in opposition to this ill-conceived budget. For working families, this budget could mean a tax hit of $2,000, making it harder for struggling New Yorkers to afford rent and put food on the table.
Washington, DC - Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding the election of Pope Francis:
“It is a source of pride to see the first election of a Pope from Latin America. Equally important, Pope Francis has a distinguished record of working to comfort and assist the poor, while personally leading a humble life inspired by Christ. Like all Catholics I am excited by his election and join in praying for him as he assumes his new role.”
Washington, DC – According to a report released today by Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY), the Ranking Democrat on the House Committee on Small Business, New York City’s small businesses stand to lose $56 million as a result of the sequestration, which went into effect March 1st. For the City’s 150,000 small businesses, this would mean a shortfall in capital and credit, fewer federal contracts, and a drop-off in critical business assistance services.
Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) joined Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) today at a press conference regarding the impact of sequestration on women. Rep. Velázquez’s remarks focused on the impact of the sequester on women-owned small businesses. Below are the text of her remarks: