Media

As Schools Explore Reopening Options, Bill Would Ensure Student Meal Access

Washington, DC –If Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) has her way, schools may become fertile ground for learning about the environment and sustainability. The New York Representative has authored a bill allocating federal resources for the adoption of green roofs at public elementary and secondary schools, known as the Public School Green Rooftop Program. The bill has the potential to open up a world of environmental and educational benefits for students and the broader community.

Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) announced the allocation of additional grant funding for early childhood education in New York's seventh district. The grant was awarded to the Catholic Charities Neighborhood Services Head Start program from the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The Head Start Program provides low-income families with early childhood education, health, and nutrition services. Catholic Charities Neighborhood Services received $ 1,345,387 in federal funds.

Legislation Includes Historic Investment in Public Housing

Washington, DC - Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) voted yesterday for H.R. 2, the "Moving Forward Act," House Democrats' sweeping legislation to invest more than $1.5 trillion in modern, sustainable infrastructure while creating millions of good-paying jobs, combatting the climate crisis and addressing disparities in communities across New York City and throughout the country.

Following Primary Problems, Seeks Greater Transparency

Washington, DC - Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) today wrote the New York City Board of Elections calling for the agency to take immediate steps to improve voting access and election procedures, following well documented problems observed in New York's June 23^rd primary election.

Washington, DC - Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) has authored legislation, the "Law Enforcement Oversight and Reform Act," which would implement tough new standards for law enforcement officers. In addition to banning chokeholds, the measure would institute new penalties when police officers act recklessly and use disproportionate force.

"New Yorkers and the American people have made their voices heard," Velázquez said. "The time for change is now. We need meaningful change and that includes holding accountable police who abuse their authority."

Washington, DC - Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) wrote a letter to New York City Council Speaker Corey Johnson urging him to continue funding the New York City Community Land Trust Initiative (CLT). The CLT program allows for members of the community to exercise agency over land and buildings within their borders with the intent of creating permanent, affordable housing. The structure of the Trust's leadership ensures that these housing units remain affordable. Members of New York's seventh district have expressed substantial interest in establishing a CLT in East New York.

Washington, DC - Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) introduced H.R. 7006, new legislation that would enable Home Health Care Agencies to attend to their patients, rather than paperwork during the coronavirus pandemic. In order to commence care with new patients and be reimbursed by Medicare, home health agencies generally need a written referral from a doctor. Home health agencies have encountered numerous difficulties obtaining referrals from physicians, as many of physicians' offices are closed due to COVID-19.