Andrew R. Garbarino

Garbarino Hosts Housing Affordability Roundtable with Federal Home Loan Bank of New York

Bayport, Long Island — "Congressman Andrew Garbarino joined the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York and local lenders this Monday for a housing affordability roundtable focused on the challenges facing Long Island families, including ways to strengthen local lending and support the region’s long-term economic growth. Held at the Bayport-Blue Point Public Library, the discussion brought together leaders from the FHLBNY and local voices to examine practical, locally driven solutions to rising housing costs and barriers facing homebuyers across Long Island. “For too many Long Island families, the dream of buying a home or staying in the community where they were raised feels further out of reach,” said Congressman Garbarino. “That is why bringing local lenders and community leaders together for an honest conversation was so important. I’ll keep fighting for a Long Island first approach that expands opportunity and keeps our communities strong. “I want to thank the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York and Randy Snook for their leadership and partnership in bringing people together around this issue,” added Garbarino. “The Federal Home Loan Bank of New York was honored to join with Congressman Andrew Garbarino and leaders of our member institutions to discuss local lending on Long Island,” said Randolph C. Snook, president and CEO of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York. “Congressman Garbarino understands the critical importance of the local lender, and how the access to capital they provide strengthens households and communities across his District and beyond. The FHLBNY is proud to serve as a reliable partner to these lenders, providing our members with key funding tools to support economic growth at the local level.” As a member of the House Financial Services Committee, Congressman Garbarino has consistently prioritized affordability, local economic growth, and policies that help working families succeed. Monday’s roundtable was part of Garbarino’s continued effort to bring local voices together to address the issues that matter most to Long Island families." Image

Hospital Leaders React as Chairman Garbarino Helps Advance FEMA COVID Reimbursements

WASHINGTON, D.C. — New York’s leading hospital systems and health care associations are responding to FEMA’s decision to begin releasing long-overdue COVID-19 reimbursement funds for hospitals and other emergency expenses across the state, following sustained engagement from House Homeland Security Chairman Andrew Garbarino. After years of delays, more than $2 billion in emergency expenses incurred during the pandemic are now being obligated, providing long-awaited relief to hospitals that were on the front lines of the public health crisis. “I’ve been in close contact with our hospitals and with FEMA to help move this process forward,” said Chairman Andrew Garbarino. “These funds are critical to strengthening our health care system and ensuring our communities are prepared for whatever challenges come next. I appreciate our continued partnership as we work to get every dollar delivered.” Leaders from hospital systems and health care associations across the state shared the following: “New York’s hospitals incurred billions in emergency expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic to save as many lives as possible. After years of delays—and thanks to the dogged efforts of House Homeland Security Chairman Andrew Garbarino—the process for our hospitals to finally receive their long-overdue FEMA funds is underway. I am deeply grateful to Chairman Garbarino for his leadership and unwavering commitment to freeing up these critically important funds”, said Kenneth E. Raske, President, Greater New York Hospital Association. “The COVID-19 pandemic was an immense challenge for healthcare providers large and small, including Northwell Health. Now, $267 million is finally being reimbursed and on its way to Northwell Health thanks to Chairman Andrew Garbarino, who fought tirelessly to ensure New York health systems are reimbursed for the significant financial burdens incurred while providing essential care to our communities," said John D'Angelo, President and CEO of Northwell Health. “We are profoundly grateful for his extraordinary and unwavering support of healthcare, and for advocating on behalf of the communities who rely on these vital services every day." “New York’s hospitals were on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading the nation in responding to an unprecedented public health crisis,” said Healthcare Association of New York State President Bea Grause, RN, JD. “Billions in federal FEMA reimbursement have been owed to many of our hospitals for several years, impacting their ability to recover from the fiscal devastation of the pandemic. As chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, Chairman Garbarino knows firsthand the important role New York’s hospitals play in responding to crises. HANYS is deeply grateful to Chairman Garbarino for his leadership and determination in ensuring all our hospitals are fully reimbursed for their heroic efforts.” “We are grateful to Congressman Garbarino for his steadfast support in securing the release of these critical FEMA reimbursements for New York healthcare systems,” said Patrick M. O’Shaughnessy, DO, MBA, president and CEO of Catholic Health and Chair of the HANYS Board of Trustees. “At a time of significant fiscal challenges for healthcare providers, this funding provides meaningful relief and helps ensure we can continue delivering high-quality care to the communities we serve.” “During the COVID-19 pandemic, New York’s hospitals rose to meet an unprecedented public health emergency, incurring billions of dollars in extraordinary expenses to protect lives and care for patients under the most challenging conditions imaginable," said Brendan G. Carr, MD, MA, MS, Chief Executive Officer, Mount Sinai Health System. "Thanks to Chairman Garbarino for his commitment to ensuring hospitals receive these critical resources.” “This reimbursement from FEMA is essential to helping the hospitals recover from the financial pressures created by the COVID‑19 pandemic. We are grateful for the release of this long‑awaited reimbursement to the State, which strengthens all of our ability to care for the communities we serve", said Dr. Brian G. Donley, President and CEO at NewYork-Presbyterian. "NYU Langone Health is grateful to Chairman Garbarino for his outstanding leadership in securing this final round of COVID-19 reimbursement funds for hospitals all across the state,” said NYU Langone Communications, Marketing, Government and Community Affairs Executive Vice President, Elizabeth Golden. “His continued support for health care in New York is deeply appreciated and benefits all New Yorkers." Issues: Health

Garbarino Thanks Advocates Who Never Stopped Fighting for 9/11 Health Care

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (NY-02) today recognized the advocates, labor leaders, and first responder organizations who worked alongside him to secure permanent, uninterrupted funding for the World Trade Center Health Program. “For more than two decades, 9/11 responders and survivors have had to fight again and again to protect the care they were promised,” said Congressman Garbarino. “This outcome would not have been possible without the relentless advocacy of the organizations, unions, and individuals who never stopped pushing Congress to do the right thing. Their voices, persistence, and partnership were critical in finally delivering the certainty and stability that responders and survivors deserve.” Throughout the process, Congressman Garbarino worked closely with first responder groups and 9/11 health advocates to advance the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act, ensuring the World Trade Center Health Program can continue providing care without the threat of future shortfalls or disruptions. Advocates and stakeholders underscored the importance of fulfilling the federal government’s long-standing commitment to September 11th responders and survivors. "The FBI Agents Association is thankful that appropriations legislation including full funding for the World Trade Center Health Program has become law. We have lost far too many members of our FBI family to illnesses caused by their service in response to the September 11th attacks, and all of the heroes who responded to and investigated the attacks deserve the certainty that this vital health program will remain fully funded.” said Natalie Bara, President of the FBI Agents Association. “It is clear Congressman Garbarino’s determination on getting the funding for the World Trade Center Health Program fixed and preventing any cuts in services was crucial to getting this done. Working in a bipartisan effort with Senators Gillibrand and Schumer, he has worked on this issue tirelessly since he got to Congress and this wouldn't have happened without his leadership,” said Benjamin Chevat, Executive Director of Citizens for the Extension of the James Zadroga Act. "Fully funding the World Trade Center Health Program is a significant victory for all the 9/11 responders and survivors suffering from long-term health consequences from toxic exposure at Ground Zero. The union movement has proudly led the fight to create the health program, ensuring these brave Americans receive the care they deserve. This would not have been possible without the persistence and leadership of Congressman Garbarino. We are thankful for all his hard work and for the support of the entire New York delegation in getting this done and in honoring our promise to never forget," said Mario Cilento, President of the New York State AFL-CIO. "I would like to personally thank you [Congressman Andrew Garbarino] for your tireless efforts on the passing of the budget, which included the Funding for the WTCHP. Your efforts will ensure that my members of Local94 and all the other first responders will get the proper health care they deserve. I would like to thank you for standing shoulder to shoulder with us in battle. Without your commitment to these important issues, our heroes would go unrecognized in their times of need. Together we remain united in our vow to, NEVER FORGET”, said Thomas Hart, President International, Union of Operating Engineers Local 94. “They say a victory has 1000 fathers. In all actuality, this victory, the passage of the WTCHP Correction Act (H.R.1410) has 145,000 plus fathers, in which over 48,000 plus have a certified 9/11 related cancer,” said John Feal, 9/11 Responder and Advocate. “Responders & Survivors will continue to receive treatment, and those who will get sick in the future from their toxic exposure will be able to join them. This short lived victory which took over 2 years was only achieved by the commitment & leadership of Rep Andrew Garbarino & the NY Delegation, with a selective few across the Country who worked closely as partners with a team of Advocates (Citizens for the Extension of the James Zadroga Act & the FealGood Foundation) who refused to give up and take no for an answer. Everyone’s resolve & testament while tested, never wavered and for that I am humbled to be part of this victory.” “We fought for the enactment and near permanent reauthorization of the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) as we view it as our obligation and duty to ensure that responders, who risked their lives to protect us, and survivors continue to receive the vital care that they deserve”, stated Bill Johnson, Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organizations. “The passage of the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act honors that obligation and ensures the WTCHP is fully funded. We thank Congressman Garbarino for his leadership and advocacy in getting this important legislation passed.” “Fire fighters who responded to the terrorist attack at Ground Zero answered the call without hesitation. ‘Never forget’ means making sure these brave men and women have access to the healthcare they need to combat the long-term illnesses they’re facing due to their service on 9/11. It is long past time Congress preserved the World Trade Center Health Program, and the IAFF is grateful for Rep. Garbarino’s unwavering dedication to our nation’s fire fighters.” International Association of Firefighters General President Edward Kelly “On September 11, 2001, we may have seen the worst of humanity, but the days, months, and years that followed were defined by the best of humanity as heroic first responders from the NYPD, FDNY, and the New York City Building Trades, stood side-by-side leading recovery efforts in the direct aftermath of the attacks on the World Trade Center. These selfless men and women deserve access to medical treatment and services for their September 11-related health conditions, and now that has been made possible through the passage of the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act,” said Gary LaBarbera, President of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York. “We thank Congressman Garbarino and Congressman Nadler and Senator Gillibrand and Senator Schumer for their continued and exceptional leadership on behalf of September 11 responders and survivors. This critical funding for the World Trade Center Health Program will improve the lives of countless patriots and their families by providing them the care they have long-deserved." “On behalf of 1300 men and women of the New York State Police Investigators Association, we extend our gratitude to Congressman Andrew Garbarino for his leadership in advancing the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act. This critical legislation helps ensure that those who sacrificed so much in the aftermath of 9/11 will continue to receive the care and support they have earned and deserve,” said Kurt Labuda, President of the New York State Police Investigators Association.” “FLEOA commends Representative Garbarino for his leadership in securing long-term funding for the World Trade Center Health Program,” said Mathew Silverman, National President of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA). “As we continue to learn more about the lasting health effects of 9/11 on first responders, sustained support for the WTCHP is essential to honoring our nation’s commitment. We appreciate Representative Garbarino and all supporters of this legislation for their advocacy to ensure continued access to critical care through this bipartisan effort.” “Thanks to the leadership of Rep. Garbarino, Congress has provided critical funding for the World Trade Center Health Program and honored its commitment to those first responders who answered the call on September 11, 2001,” said NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA) President Vincent Vallelong. “In the nearly 25 years since 9/11, we have seen daily reminders of the heavy price paid by our members and others who selflessly placed themselves in harm’s way for their neighbors and their country. That is why we are grateful for the efforts of Rep. Garbarino to fulfill the promise of the original Zadroga Act and are proud to have worked alongside him to ensure that 9/11 responders and survivors receive the ongoing care that they deserve.” ### Issues: Standing With Law Enforcement

Garbarino and NY Republicans Secure Full Funding for World Trade Center Health Program as Bill is Signed into Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, legislation securing full, lifetime funding for the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) was signed into law, ensuring permanent certainty of care for 9/11 responders and survivors. The funding fix, led in the House by Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (NY-02), corrects the program’s funding formula and guarantees uninterrupted medical treatment for those suffering from 9/11-related illnesses. The law incorporates language based on Garbarino’s legislation to permanently correct the WTCHP funding formula, preventing future shortfalls and allowing the program to operate as Congress originally intended. “New Yorkers will never forget September 11th, and our responsibility doesn’t end with words,” said Congressman Garbarino. “Responders and survivors were promised care, and today we are finally delivering certainty that that care will always be there. This law fixes an outdated funding formula, eliminates the risk of cuts or disruptions, and ensures those suffering from 9/11-related illnesses can focus on their health, not bureaucracy. I’m grateful to the Members of Congress who voted to advance this funding package and to President Trump for signing this legislation into law and making this long-overdue fix permanent.” New York House Members Who Voted to Secure Lifetime WTCHP Funding: ● Rep. Andrew R. Garbarino (R-02) ● Rep. Nick LaLota (R-01) ● Rep. Mike Lawler (R-17) ● Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-24) ● Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-11) ● Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-21) ● Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-23) Issues: Standing With Law Enforcement

Garbarino and NY Congressional Delegation Lead Effort to Secure Lifetime Funding for World Trade Center Health Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (NY-02) announced that the FY 2026 appropriations minibus package includes full funding for 9/11 health care through the program's lifetime, ensuring certainty of continued care for 9/11 responders and survivors. “New Yorkers will never forget September 11th, 2001, and we have a responsibility to match our words with action,” said Congressman Garbarino. “Responders and survivors must always receive the care they were promised without delays or disruption. Since the day I was first elected to Congress, I have worked to keep that promise. That’s why I have been focused on ensuring the World Trade Center Health Program is fully funded through its entirety. Today, the House passed an appropriations package, which includes language from my bill. This provision makes corrections to the funding formula to deliver full funding for the program through its lifetime. Funding certainty matters. It ensures the program can operate as intended and that those suffering from 9/11-related illnesses can focus on their health, not bureaucracy.” Advocates for 9/11 responders and survivors emphasized the significance of the funding correction and the bipartisan effort behind its passage. “It is clear Congressman Garbarino’s determination on getting the funding for the World Trade Center Health Program fixed and preventing any cuts in services was crucial to getting this done. Working in a bipartisan effort with Senators Gillibrand and Schumer, he has worked on this issue tirelessly since he got to Congress and this wouldn't have happened without his leadership,” said Benjamin Chevat, Executive Director of Citizens for the Extension of the James Zadroga Act. Congressman Garbarino expressed gratitude to members of the NY delegation from both sides of the aisle for their support and advocacy on behalf of the program, including the co-lead of the bill, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. New York’s Congressional delegation emphasized the importance of protecting 9/11 health care and ensuring reliable, uninterrupted support for those suffering from 9/11-related conditions. “I had just returned from my first deployment on September 11th, and like so many Americans, that day is seared into my memory. We will never forget the lives lost, the families forever changed, or the responders and survivors who continue to carry the physical and emotional scars of that day more than two decades later. I know countless New Yorkers who are still living with the health consequences of 9/11, and ensuring they receive the care they were promised is the least we can do. I’m grateful to Congressman Garbarino for his leadership on this issue, and as the only Republican Appropriator from New York, I appreciate my Appropriations colleagues on both sides of the aisle recognizing the urgency and necessity of fully funding the World Trade Center Health Program through its lifetime. This funding provides certainty, dignity, and peace of mind to the heroes and survivors who have already sacrificed so much,” said Congressman Nick LaLota. “September 11 changed our country forever. The first responders, survivors, and families affected by that day continue to live with the consequences,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Congress made a promise to provide long-term care, and that promise must be kept. The World Trade Center Health Program delivers essential services, but outdated funding formulas have not kept pace with rising medical costs. This legislation corrects WTCHP funding moving forward to reflect the true cost of care and ensures continued access to medical services, including mental health services, for those who continue to suffer the effects of that day.” “I am grateful that vital funding will be included in the final appropriations package that directly supports our 9/11 responders and survivors. I have seen firsthand the critical work being done by the World Trade Center Health Program, and I am proud to support the dedicated staff who ensure that these heroes and their families receive the care and support they deserve,” said Rep. Mike Lawler. “Everyone remembers where they were on 9/11. For almost 25 years, we have tried to honor the survivors and first responders who rushed into danger—but it will never be enough,” said Congressman Suozzi. “Many continue to suffer lasting health consequences, and Congress has a responsibility to deliver the care these heroes were promised. I’m grateful to the bipartisan Members of the New York delegation for putting politics aside to get this done. When it comes to 9/11, there aren’t Democrats or Republicans– only Americans.” “Today, we are honoring our promise to never forget the darkest day in our nation’s history,” said Rep. Goldman. "This legislation ensures that 9/11 survivors and first responders will have the peace of mind of knowing with certainty that they will get the health care they need and are owed for years to come. I have fought for years to get this program fully funded, and I am proud to finally be delivering for our heroes.” “Tens of thousands of 9/11 first responders and survivors, including nearly 7,000 of my constituents in New York’s Fourth Congressional District, depend on the World Trade Center Health Program,” said Rep. Gillen. “Since taking office, I promised these heroes and survivors that I would never give up the fight to preserve this program. That’s why I fought to fully fund it through its entirety, ensuring they continue to receive the care they need and deserve. FDNY, NYPD and the thousands of emergency personnel who answered the call on one of the darkest days in our nation’s history deserve nothing less than our unwavering support and commitment.” “I am proud to stand with my New York colleagues to ensure the World Trade Center Health Program remains fully funded in this final round of appropriations, guaranteeing continued support for 9/11 responders and survivors. 25 years after this horrific terrorist attack, we are still losing first responders to 9/11 related illnesses on a regular basis. We will always stand up for these heroes and survivors to ensure they have access to the care they need and deserve,” said Rep. Malliotakis. “For some Americans, September 11th may feel like a distant memory or something they’ve only read about in history books, but for our first responders and recovery workers battling 9/11-related illnesses, it’s something they live with every single day,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy. "These heroes ran toward danger after the worst attack on American soil in our nation’s history, and many are still paying the price because of toxic exposure at Ground Zero. Ensuring they receive the health care they deserve is not optional — it is the least we can do, and it is Congress’s obligation to stand by those who selflessly responded during our nation’s darkest hour.” “It’s been almost 25 years since the 9/11 attacks and New York’s heroic first responders and survivors still carry with them the burden of that day as they develop chronic conditions and diseases related to the air around Ground Zero. We promised to Never Forget 9/11 and that means taking care of all first responders and survivors of that day. The World Trade Center Health Program is finally receiving much needed funding to do just that. As more and more survivors in New York and across the country discover they have illnesses and diseases related to the 9/11 attacks, this funding will provide a stable path to help them get treated. I am proud to have helped create this permanent program to provide for our brave survivors for generations to come. During this difficult time, I am grateful to see Congress come together to accomplish this once again,” said Rep. Nadler. Background Rep. Garbarino has led the effort to fund the WTCHP in the House since coming to Congress in 2021. He and Senator Gillibrand are the lead sponsors of the 9/11 Responder and Survivor Health Funding Correction Act, which served as the basis for the new funding formula. Together, they have secured critical funding and program improvements, including addressing the funding shortfall, delaying program cuts, and expanding eligibility to 9/11 responders, including the funding formula fix in the 2024 year-end spending legislation, along with funding secured in previous years. Rep. Garbarino has helped secure the equivalent of at least $2.361 billion for the program on behalf of 9/11 responders and survivors. About The WTCHP Congress established the WTCHP on a bipartisan basis in 2011 with a five-year authorization to provide medical treatment and monitoring for 9/11 responders and survivors suffering from exposure to toxins at Ground Zero. The program covers the lifespans of all exposed individuals, including first responders, survivors of the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and the Shanksville crash site, children who attended schools in downtown Manhattan on 9/11 and during the clean-up, and those who have since developed, or are expected to develop, adverse health effects linked to the attacks. The WTCHP was reauthorized in 2015 and extended through 2090 with bipartisan support. Today, the program provides medical treatment and monitoring for over 140,000 responders and survivors from the World Trade Center and lower Manhattan, the Pentagon, and the Shanksville, PA crash site, representing every state and nearly all Congressional Districts. Issues: Congress Homeland Security Standing With Law Enforcement Veterans

Garbarino Delivers Key Long Island and National Priorities in FY 2026 Appropriations Package

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a FY 2026 appropriations minibus package that advances key priorities championed by Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (NY-02), delivering major wins for Long Island families, strengthening critical federal programs, and providing long-term certainty for initiatives communities rely on. “This package includes the key priorities I have consistently pushed for in Congress,” said Congressman Garbarino. “It delivers long-term certainty for essential programs, strengthens public safety and infrastructure, and ensures federal dollars are being spent responsibly and effectively for Long Island communities.” Key Provisions in the FY 2026 Appropriations Package: Updates the funding mechanism for the World Trade Center Health Program to ensure long-term viability through the life of the program, providing certainty for 9/11 responders and survivors. Extends key CISA authorities through FY 2026, strengthening federal, state, and local cybersecurity efforts. Reauthorizes the National Flood Insurance Program through FY 2026, providing stability for homeowners and flood-prone communities. Ensures no gap in HUD Continuum of Care funding while the Notice of Funding Opportunity proceeds through the court system. Provides $850 million for Amtrak, in line with the agency’s request, supporting passenger rail operations and critical infrastructure along the Northeast Corridor. Includes the remainder of Congressman Garbarino’s Community Project Funding requests, ensuring every CPF request submitted by his office was funded. Extends the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program through FY 2026, continuing direct support for state and local governments to defend against cyber threats. Provides $20 million to strengthen the CISA workforce, supporting threat hunting, vulnerability management, and regional cybersecurity advising nationwide. Directs CISA to maintain sufficient staffing, preserve regional field offices, and ensure every state and territory is supported by a dedicated Cybersecurity Advisor. Strengthens transparency and accountability at the Department of Homeland Security while maintaining funding for essential operations. Includes the remainder of Congressman Garbarino’s Community Project Funding requests, ensuring every CPF request submitted by his office was funded, including: $1.954 million for the Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services to support the Suffolk County Emergency Operations Center. $4 million for the Town of Babylon’s Downtown Deer Park Revitalization Project. $5 million for the Town of Brookhaven’s Municipal Landfill Capping Project. $1.5 million for Suffolk County Community College’s Advanced Manufacturing Training Program. $750,000 for the Village of Lindenhurst Road Improvement Project. $500,000 for the Village of Bellport Road Improvement Project. $1 million for the Town of Oyster Bay Salt Shed Project. $500,000 for the Town of Islip Road Improvement Project. $1.5 million for the Village of Massapequa Park Road Improvement Project. As Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, Congressman Garbarino has consistently prioritized strengthening cybersecurity, protecting critical infrastructure, and ensuring accountability across the Department of Homeland Security. The FY 2026 appropriations package reflects those priorities and safeguards essential homeland security functions relied upon by communities nationwide. “As chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, I was proud to cast my vote today to support the Department of Homeland Security’s core mission and the personnel who work tirelessly every day to keep Americans safe. This full-year appropriations bill will bolster the border security wins provided by House Republicans in our reconciliation package and ensure the safety of our law enforcement officers and the communities they serve comes first. In addition, this bill provides funding for vital nonprofit security grants that act as a lifeline for the safety of faith-based communities on Long Island and across the country, protects the Department’s skilled cybersecurity workforce, extends essential cybersecurity authorities, and makes sure frontline personnel––like TSA agents and the U.S. Coast Guard––don't have to worry about missing another paycheck due to a government shutdown,” added Congressman Garbarino. Congressman Garbarino emphasized that this appropriations package delivers real federal investments back to Long Island. The legislation includes significant Community Project Funding for NY-02, supporting emergency preparedness, infrastructure improvements, workforce development, and local revitalization projects across Nassau and Suffolk Counties in close coordination with local governments and community partners. ### Issues: Congress Infrastructure

Garbarino Introduces USMMA Athletics Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02) introduced H.R. 6961, the USMMA Athletics Act, legislation to modernize and strengthen athletic programs at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) and ensure the academy can operate on equal footing with other federal service academies. USMMA fields 17 NCAA Division III varsity teams with broad participation from midshipmen, but its status as a federal entity limits its ability to receive NCAA funding, charge for tickets, or enter into standard athletic and licensing agreements. The legislation would create a nonprofit organization to support USMMA athletics, bringing the Academy in line with institutions such as the Military Academy, the Naval Academy, and the Air Force Academy. “We appreciate Rep. Andrew Garbarino’s continued leadership and advocacy on behalf of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and its Midshipmen. He has been a steadfast champion for USMMA, and we are grateful for his consistent dedication to the Academy and its mission. We especially commend his strong support for the Campus Modernization Plan, which is essential to revitalizing the Academy’s 80-year-old infrastructure and ensuring USMMA can continue to train the merchant mariners and US Navy Strategic Sealift Officers our nation depends on,” said Capt. James F. Tobin, President and CEO of the USMMA Alumni Association & Foundation, Inc. “This investment in core infrastructure is the single most important priority for the Academy’s long-term future. The Alumni Association and Foundation have a long history of supporting midshipmen athletics and would welcome any additional funding streams that may result from this legislation.” “The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is a critical national asset, and its midshipmen serve our country both in uniform and on the field,” said Garbarino. “This bill gives the Academy the tools it needs to fully support its student-athletes and help ensure USMMA remains strong for generations to come.” ###

Two Garbarino Bills advance in the Financial Services Committee that would deliver real results for Long Islanders

Position: Congressman Garbarino supports two bills: the NFIP Extension Act to maintain flood insurance program continuity during government funding lapses, and the Small Business Relief Act to reduce SEC compliance burdens on growing private companies.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, two bills sponsored by Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02) that are critical to Long Island’s housing market and small business community were advanced during the House Financial Services Committee’s markup. H.R. 5577, the NFIP Extension Act, would ensure the National Flood Insurance Program remains fully operational even in the event of a government funding lapse through Fiscal Year 2026. During the recent shutdown, NFIP’s brief lapse froze policy renewals and home closings. This was an especially disruptive outcome for coastal communities like Long Island, where flood insurance is often required to secure a mortgage. The second bill, H.R. 4130, the Small Business Relief Act, updates outdated SEC rules that can force growing private companies into costly public registration. This legislation would allow Long Island businesses to grow and innovate without being burdened by unnecessary compliance costs. “Long Island families and small businesses depend on stability and predictability to plan, invest, and grow,” said Congressman Garbarino. “Whether it’s keeping flood insurance available for homeowners or ensuring small businesses can access capital without unnecessary red tape, these bills would address real challenges facing our region.” Today’s committee markup is a critical step in the legislative process, allowing Members to debate, amend, and advance legislation before the full House can consider it. “These are practical solutions that protect Long Island homeowners and support local small business owners,” Garbarino added. ### Issues: Economy & Jobs

Garbarino Highlights 2025 Accomplishments: Delivering Results for Long Island

Garbarino Highlights 2025 Accomplishments: Delivering Results for Long Island WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02) highlighted a year of legislative and constituent service accomplishments focused on delivering real results for Long Island families, small businesses, and law enforcement. “Everything I do in Congress is about delivering real results for Long Island,” said Congressman Garbarino. “Whether it’s lowering taxes, protecting 9/11 health care, strengthening our national security, or standing up for local communities, my focus is simple: getting things done for the people I represent.” In 2025, Congressman Garbarino secured a significant achievement when he was named Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, giving Long Islanders a direct voice on critical issues including border security, counterterrorism, and cybersecurity. Garbarino also led the fight to quadruple the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap to $40,000, delivering long-awaited tax relief for Long Island families and helping them keep more of their hard-earned money. Protecting 9/11 first responders and survivors remained a top priority throughout the year. Congressman Garbarino continued to work to fully fund and safeguard the World Trade Center Health Program. On the legislative front, Congressman Garbarino introduced 30 bills focused on Long Island priorities, including preserving flood insurance, supporting small businesses, and backing law enforcement. He also co-sponsored 171 bills aimed at advancing commonsense solutions for families and communities. Just as importantly, Garbarino’s office delivered direct results for constituents. In 2025 alone, his team returned more than $1.6 million to constituents, responded to over 24,000 constituent contacts, and successfully resolved more than 1,400 individual casework requests. “I’m proud of what we accomplished this year,” Garbarino added. “And I’ll keep fighting every day to deliver real results for Long Island.” ### Issues: Congress Economy & Jobs