Press Releases

“The Reforming American Immigration for Strong Employment (RAISE) Act is a misguided and dangerous bill that – far from improving our workforce and economy – will only contribute to its downfall. Under the proposed legislation, arbitrary caps on refugee admission means that tens of thousands of people could be turned away from the United States, while the number of green cards issued could be slashed by nearly half a million. READ MORE

$4 million in expense funding secured to outfit all firefighters with a second pair of boots

City Hall – Today, Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito joined Fire and Criminal Justice Services Chair Elizabeth Crowley to celebrate $4 million in expense funding through the Fiscal Year 2018 budget to uniform all New York City firefighters with an extra pair of boots. READ MORE

“Banning Transgender Americans from military service is despicable, discriminatory and downright anti-American. The President’s blatant dismissal of those who would willingly put their lives on the line to protect our nation is disgraceful and goes against the very values Donald Trump claims to want to protect. This bigoted decision is the latest misstep from a White House that is determined to roll back progress and equality in the name of hate. READ MORE

“The Republican Senate’s vote today to begin debate on repealing major provisions of the Affordable Care Act is regressive and sets a dangerous precedent, showing once again that GOP senators are more interested in playing politics than serving the needs of their constituents. Attempting to repeal the Affordable Care Act will result in the endangerment of millions of lives and will cause insurance costs to surge, once again making healthcare less accessible and affordable for the majority of Americans. READ MORE

“This morning’s subway derailment in Brighton Beach is simply the latest in a troubling pattern of incidents that have made clear that the MTA is in dire need of increased funding at both the City and State levels. Millions of New Yorkers rely on our subways each and every day to get around our city, and they deserve a safe and reliable form of public transit. READ MORE

“Ruben Wills betrayed the trust of all New Yorkers when he abused his position in the State Senate to steal thousands of dollars from the hardworking taxpayers of New York for his own selfish gain. Serving in elected office requires honesty and integrity and today’s conviction makes clear that Ruben Wills is unfit to be a member of the City Council. READ MORE

Council will also vote on Increasing Awareness of SNAP through a Public Campaign and on Providing Means to Tip Drivers of For-Hire Vehicles

City Hall – Today, the New York City Council will vote on legislation to establish programs providing tenants facing eviction with access to legal services. The Council will also vote to require public reports to be issued regarding civil actions taken against the Department of Correction. READ MORE

“The assassination of Officer Miosotis Familia is an affront to our City and to the courageous men and women of the NYPD who selflessly put their lives on the line each and every day to keep New Yorkers safe. This is a tremendously sad day for our City. Our hearts ache for Officer Familia’s loved ones, the 46th Precinct, and the entire NYPD family as we join together to mourn this senseless and horrific act of violence against one of New York City’s finest.”

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“On the 241st anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we face a significant crossroads in our nation as we grapple with our values and those who represent them. Although these conflicts can be trying, this day serves as a reminder of just how fortunate we are to enjoy the freedoms of this country – of dissent and of individual liberty. READ MORE

“I am glad that the Assembly, Senate, and Governor did the right thing by granting a two year extension of Mayoral control – a crucial component of our City’s education system that impacts the lives of over 1.1 million students who depend on it. Schools need to remain accountable, and since Mayoral control began, we have seen a dramatic improvement in quality of instruction and student achievement. READ MORE