Timothy M. Kennedy

Cutting Through the Cost of Waiting: Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz joins Congressman Kennedy at Roswell Park to Push Three-Pronged Legislative Approach to Expand Access for Survivors and High-Risk Patients

Position: Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz advocates for passage of three cancer-related bills: the Lainie Jones Comprehensive Cancer Survivorship Act, the Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act, and the EARLY Reauthorization Act. These bills would expand Medicare coverage for hereditary cancer risk screening, enhance survivorship care, and increase early detection awareness in young women.

Three Pieces of Legislation Championed by Wasserman Schultz Would Provide Comprehensive Approach to Continuing Care for Cancer Survivors, Enhance Medicare Coverage for Those with Hereditary Risks, and Reauthorize the EARLY Act to Raise Awareness of Early Detection in Young Women Wasserman Schultz, a Breast Cancer Survivor, Toured Roswell Park with Kennedy to See Firsthand the Progress Being Made at World’s First Cancer Hospital BUFFALO, N.Y. - Following a tour of the world’s first dedicated cancer hospital, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) joined Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) to call for passage of her three-pronged approach to expanding access to care for cancer survivors and high-risk patients. Wasserman Schultz, a breast cancer survivor, was in Buffalo at Kennedy’s invitation. The Congresswoman is calling for the passage of three pieces of legislation she sponsors: the Lainie Jones Comprehensive Cancer Survivorship Act, the Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act, and the EARLY Reauthorization Act. Taken together, these three bills transform cancer care at every stage of a patient’s journey by identifying hereditary gene mutations in at-risk individuals, expanding access to early screenings and risk-reducing surgeries, and addressing the lasting health challenges that survivors face. “Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz’s inspiring story proves exactly why early intervention is vital,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “No matter your background or family history, early detection is the most critical factor in surviving cancer. The lifesaving work at Roswell Park, combined with this new legislative package, will expand access to care and give families more precious time together. I’m deeply grateful to my friend Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz for visiting Buffalo to see this research firsthand, and to the thousands of dedicated professionals at Roswell Park who work tirelessly to save lives.” “As a breast cancer survivor myself, I know firsthand that a patient’s cancer journey doesn’t end with the final round of chemo or radiation - it’s a lifelong battle,” said Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz. The challenges cancer survivors face must continue to be at the forefront of every conversation we have about this deadly and unrelenting disease. I really appreciate my friend Rep. Kennedy and his incredible team at Roswell Park, both for their invitation, and their unyielding commitment to the cancer community.” “From expanded services for people at high risk of cancer to ongoing support for cancer survivors, we are delighted to have the chance to share our ideas and experiences with legislators,” said Candace Johnson, PhD, President and CEO of Roswell Park. “Representatives Wasserman Schultz and Kennedy have once again proven their commitment to the cancer patients here at Roswell Park and across the country.” “I’m here to say thank you to the caregivers, researchers, lawmakers and leaders who are partners in these important conversations about cancer prevention, care, research and survivorship services,” said breast cancer survivor Sharon Sanford, a Senior Associate Director of Athletics at the University at Buffalo, and founder of Sadie Strong. “Together, we are shaping the access, the resources, the realities that tomorrow’s cancer patients will confront, and we are paving a way for more cancer victories, more people getting back to their lives and moving forward with good health and positivity.” “We are so grateful to Representative Wasserman Schultz, Representative Kennedy and Dr. Johnson for hosting conversations today that lead to meaningful action tomorrow,” said breast cancer survivor Annette Colden, founder of We R As 1 Inc. and a longtime partner in Roswell Park’s outreach and engagement programs. “It’s so important that cancer survivors are engaged as true partners in this way.” The three pieces of legislation being advanced by Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz and supported by Kennedy are: The Lainie Jones Comprehensive Cancer Survivorship Act - This legislation overhauls cancer survivorship care by requiring Medicare to cover personalized survivorship plans to help patients navigate from active treatment to long-term survivorship and mandating Medicaid cover vital fertility preservation services for women at risk of iatrogenic infertility resulting from cancer treatment. The bill also creates a specific Medicaid benefit to help childhood and adolescent survivors safely transition into standard primary care and establishes a grant program through nonprofits to assist cancer survivors facing barriers to employment as a result of their disease and effects of treatment. To drive long-term progress, the act formally establishes the Office of Cancer Survivorship to manage dedicated research grants and mandates a sweeping government evaluation of patient outcomes. The EARLY Reauthorization Act - First enacted as part of the Affordable Care Act in 2010, the EARLY Act directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the CDC, to launch a national education campaign targeting young women (ages 15–44) to raise awareness of breast health, risk factors, and early detection, with particular attention to diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. It also established a parallel campaign aimed at educating health care professionals on the importance of early breast cancer diagnosis, patient counseling, and genetics referrals. Additionally, the EARLY Act created a grant program for nonprofit organizations assisting young women diagnosed with breast cancer to help them navigate the process. The authorization for this law expired at the end of last year. This bill reauthorizes programs under this law through 2031. The Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act - This bill provides for Medicare coverage of germline mutation testing for individuals with a personal or family history of a hereditary cancer gene mutation or suspected history of hereditary cancer, as well as for associated coverage of risk-reducing surgeries and screenings. “Cancer has unfortunately touched my family in many ways, including personally affecting both my wife and me,” said Erie County Comptroller Kevin Hardwick. “We know firsthand that early education, screening, and detection save lives. Institutions like Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center need sustained funding to continue advancing our understanding of this disease and how it can ultimately be eradicated. The more our country invests in cancer research, screening, and prevention, the more lives we will save and the more progress we will have to celebrate in the future. I am proud to support Congressman Tim Kennedy’s efforts to provide comprehensive care for survivors living with the long-term effects of cancer treatment, while also expanding screening and education for those at high risk of developing cancer.” New York State Senator April N.M. Baskin said, "As someone who has supported a loved one through cancer treatment, I know how critical access to quality, comprehensive cancer care can be. However, not everyone in this country has the same access to that lifesaving care. Black Americans face a higher cancer burden and the highest death rates of any group, driven by long standing inequities. I'm grateful to Congressman Tim Kennedy and Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz for their leadership to expand access, improve early detection, and ensure patients and survivors get the care and support they deserve." Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “Cancer doesn’t end when treatment does, and for far too many families, the hardest part begins after they leave the hospital. Congressman Kennedy’s legislative package recognizes that survivorship is a lifelong journey, and it finally meets patients where they are. These proposals ensure that survivors aren’t left to navigate recovery alone, and they recognize the real-life challenges patients face beyond the doctor’s office. This is what comprehensive, compassionate care looks like. I’m proud to stand with Congressman Kennedy in pushing for these critical investments in prevention, treatment, and survivorship.” “I’m proud to stand with Congressman Tim Kennedy and Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz in support of this comprehensive cancer care package that puts patients and families first," said Erie County Legislator Taisha St. Jean Tard. "This legislation recognizes that cancer care does not end with treatment, but that it requires continued support, early detection, and access to life-saving resources. By expanding coverage and investing in survivorship and prevention, we are taking meaningful steps to ensure our communities receive the care, dignity, and support they deserve.”

With Nearly 200 Prescription Drugs Facing Shortages, Kennedy Delivers $338,000 to D’Youville University School of Pharmacy for New Drug Compounding Space

New, Secure, and Regulated Space will Feature Sterile and Non-Sterile Compounding, Promoting Research and Innovation Ensuring the Availability of Hazardous Compounding Services is Vital for Treatment of Conditions Such as Cancer BUFFALO, N.Y. - Congressman Tim Kennedy visited D’Youville University today to announce he secured $338,000 in federal funding for DYU’s School of Pharmacy’s drug compounding space. The project will transform the facility into a secure, regulated space featuring sterile and non-sterile compounding services. The project will promote research and innovation at DYU while addressing critical service gaps in Western New York. Ensuring the availability of hazardous compounding services is crucial given their vital role in treating conditions such as cancer. “Modern healthcare professionals need access to modern medicine,” said Congressman Kennedy. “D’Youville University’s School of Pharmacy plays a key role in filling the need for highly-trained pharmacists. With this funding, we’re ensuring students have real hands-on experience with the latest cutting-edge technologies, while simultaneously providing access to lifesaving drugs for Western New Yorkers who are facing shortages. As a D’Youville alumnus, I’m incredibly proud to see my alma mater continue to lead the way in innovation and public service.” “This investment strengthens pharmacy education while directly expanding access to critical healthcare services in our community,” said D’Youville University President Lorrie Clemo, PhD. “By modernizing our compounding facilities, we are better preparing students for high-demand careers and addressing a significant gap in access to complex medications for patients across Buffalo and Western New York.” New York State Senator April N.M. Baskin said, "Healthcare access remains a challenge in many communities throughout Western New York, so any investments to help bridge that gap are critical. I'm grateful to Congressman Tim Kennedy for securing this funding, which will expand access to life-saving treatments and create new opportunities for students pursuing careers in healthcare." “I commend Tim Kennedy for securing this funding,” said New York State Senator Jeremy Zellner. “D’Youville University is quickly emerging as a healthcare hub for Western New York, and this investment strengthens both access to care and the workforce pipeline we urgently need. At a time when drug shortages are already impacting patients, expanding safe, regulated compounding capacity locally isn’t optional — it’s necessary.” Deputy County Executive Lisa M. Chimera said, “At a time when drug shortages are impacting communities across the country, this investment at D’Youville is an important step forward for Erie County. Expanding compounding capacity means patients, especially those undergoing critical treatments like cancer care, can access the medications they need, when they need them. I want to thank Congressman Tim Kennedy for his tireless advocacy and for being a strong partner in delivering resources that strengthen public health across our community.” Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “This investment in D’Youville University’s School of Pharmacy is a major step forward for both healthcare access and innovation in Western New York. By expanding sterile and hazardous compounding capabilities, this project will help ensure that patients, especially those undergoing complex treatments like cancer care, can receive the medications they need close to home. I thank Congressman Kennedy for delivering this critical funding, which will strengthen our local healthcare infrastructure, support cutting-edge research, and make high-quality, affordable care more accessible for families across the Buffalo community.” “Thanks to the leadership of Congressman Timothy Kennedy, this investment in D’Youville University will expand access to critical healthcare services and help ensure patients in Buffalo can receive essential treatments closer to home,” said Erie County Legislator Lawrence Dupre. “D’Youville has long been a leader in advancing healthcare access for underserved communities on the West Side, and this project builds on that legacy while making care more accessible and equitable for all.” The ability to offer hazardous compounding services will allow critical treatments to seamlessly integrate into the local healthcare landscape, promoting convenience, accessibility, and affordability for community members. This project will also enable DYU's School of Pharmacy to meet critical industry standards, which provide for the safe handling of hazardous drugs and compounding quality nonsterile preparations. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting more than 14,000 job openings for pharmacists each year for the next decade, the need to prepare students to meet the needs of patients has never been greater. Additionally, the American Society of Hospital Pharmacists reports that there are currently 189 drugs in a state of shortage, further underscoring the need for expanded compounding services to help bridge that gap. Currently, the nearest sterile, non-sterile, and hazardous compounding provider is approximately 15 miles away, creating transportation and access challenges for many patients, particularly those requiring complex therapies such as genetic, oncology, and research treatments. Rep. Kennedy is a D’Youville graduate, having earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees in occupational therapy. Prior to entering public service, Kennedy actively practiced as an OT for more than a decade. D’Youville University is a nationally ranked private university founded in 1908 and headquartered in Buffalo, New York, which offers degrees in the health sciences and business. D’Youville University promotes a healthy mind, body, and spirit. Through transformational educational experiences, students are prepared for growth, career success, and upward mobility. For more information, visit dyu.edu.

Congressman Kennedy Statement on Final Passage of DHS Funding Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Tim Kennedy released the below statement today following final passage in the House of the Senate-led DHS funding bill: “For 76 days, Republicans kept the Department of Homeland Security shuttered, risking national security, jeopardizing pay for TSA workers, and halting essential missions at FEMA. And for more than a month, House Republicans refused to pass a bipartisan funding bill the Senate approved unanimously, intentionally holding hostage FEMA, TSA, and Coast Guard personnel just so they could first secure billions more in funding for ICE to continue the violent assault on our communities. After overseeing the longest shutdown in history, Speaker Johnson has finally allowed this funding bill to pass, proving once again the Republican Majority cannot govern.”

Kennedy Sounds Alarm on GOP Threats to Election Integrity, Defends Western New Yorkers’ Right to Vote

Position: Congressman Kennedy opposes Republican efforts to restrict voter access and interfere with state-run elections. He advocates for maintaining election security infrastructure funding, protecting against misinformation, and preserving voter access measures such as absentee ballot drop boxes, early voting, and mail-in voting.

With Misinformation and Threats of Interference Coming from White House in Lead-up to November Elections, Kennedy Highlights Need to Maintain Independence of State-run Elections WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) participated in a Homeland Security Committee hearing focused on protecting American elections from federal overreach, using the platform to underscore what is at stake for voters in Western New York and across the country. Kennedy warned that efforts to undermine confidence in elections and interfere with state-run systems threaten the democratic process and jeopardize the fundamental right of every eligible citizen to have their voice heard and their vote counted. “Our colleagues across the aisle are driving forward an agenda that would restrict voter access,” said Congressman Kennedy. “I had the opportunity to serve in the New York State Senate for the better part of fourteen years and was very proud to help transform our election laws in New York to improve access, security, and transparency. That included increasing absentee ballot drop boxes, expanding early voting sites, voting by mail, and improving election misinformation protections. The last priority is particularly essential, given that this President is actively working to sow misinformation in our elections, undermine state procedures and protections, and block access to the ballot box as part of a larger effort to ensure he sees the election results he wants later this year.” (Kennedy’s full committee remarks here.) Misinformation and unfounded claims about election fraud have serious consequences for communities across the country. In Western New York, where local officials work to administer elections with limited resources, these narratives erode public trust, strain election systems, and make it more difficult for eligible voters to participate with confidence. Kennedy underscored that maintaining both access and security in elections is critical to preserving democratic participation at every level. Kennedy also raised concerns about the weakening of federal support for election security infrastructure, noting that cuts to key programs and personnel leave state and local officials without the tools needed to protect voting systems from both cyber threats and physical intimidation. For communities like Western New York, this shift increases the burden on local governments while exposing voters and election workers to heightened risks, including harassment and politically motivated interference. With the 2026 congressional, state, and local elections approaching, Kennedy called for a renewed commitment to safeguarding democratic institutions and rejecting efforts that would restrict access to the ballot, stressing that Republican policies to centralize control over elections or impose unnecessary barriers risk disenfranchising millions of eligible Americans.

Kennedy, Meng Lead Congressional Effort Demanding Reversal of Harmful Refugee Detention Policy

Position: Representatives Kennedy and Meng, leading 35 House Democrats, oppose a Trump administration policy that permits arrest and detention of legally admitted refugees after one year in the United States. They argue the policy violates established law, destabilizes communities, and breaks promises made to refugees who completed rigorous vetting.

Kennedy, CAPAC Chair Meng, House Democrats Send Oversight Letter to Trump Administration WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representatives Tim Kennedy (NY-26) and Grace Meng (NY-06) led a coalition of 35 House Democrats in demanding the Trump administration immediately reverse a dangerous new policy that allows for the arrest and detention of legally admitted refugees after one year in the United States. In a letter sent to top immigration officials, Kennedy and his colleagues warn that the policy upends decades of established law and threatens to destabilize communities across the country. For Western New York, a region strengthened by generations of refugee resettlement, this policy puts working families, local economies, and community institutions at risk. “At its core, this policy breaks a promise,” said Congressman Kennedy. “Refugees who followed the law, passed incredibly rigorous vetting processes, and began building new lives here are now being told they could be detained simply for complying with the system as it exists. That’s wrong, and it’s a direct threat to the stability of communities like Buffalo, where refugees are our neighbors, coworkers, and small business owners contributing to our shared prosperity.” “The Trump administration's new policy betrays refugees who came to this country seeking safety, only to now face the threat of detention by the very nation that promised them protection,” said Rep. Grace Meng, Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus. “This cruel bait-and-switch undermines decades of precedent and leaves thousands of fully vetted refugees in limbo. We urge the Trump administration to reverse course and uphold our American values.” The letter emphasizes that this unprecedented policy creates fear and uncertainty for families who have already endured hardship, while undermining the core tenets of the legal immigration process. Subjecting lawful refugees to detention during the green card process, a step refugees are already legally required to take, risks disrupting businesses, separating families, and weakening the socioeconomic fabric of communities nationwide. Refugees are proven drivers of workforce growth and local revitalization, particularly in regions like Western New York that rely on new Americans to fill critical jobs and strengthen neighborhoods. This DHS policy comes against the backdrop of several actions taken by the Trump administration to undermine the refugee program. House Democrats are demanding answers and accountability, making clear that policies with such profound human and economic consequences cannot go unchecked. Read the full text of the letter here.

Ahead of Earth Day, Congressman Kennedy Secures $443,000 for Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper to Assess Threats and Solutions for Niagara River and Lake Erie Watershed

Funding Secured by Kennedy Will Support Data Collection in Water Quality Monitoring and Shoreline Risk Assessment, Also Creating Science-based Educational Opportunities for Students in WNY BUFFALO, N.Y. - Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) and Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper announced today Kennedy’s securing of $443,000 in federal funding to help Waterkeeper assess threats, risks, and solutions for Lake Erie’s Eastern Basin, while offering enhanced place-based Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) opportunities for Western New York Students. “The responsible stewardship of the Great Lakes ecosystem and its surrounding waterways is a critical cornerstone of Western New York’s future,” said Congressman Kennedy. “This federal investment will empower Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper to expand critical monitoring, confront emerging threats like harmful algal blooms and PFAS contamination, and equip our community with the tools and knowledge to protect our region’s most vital natural resource. I’m proud to deliver this funding to ensure Western New Yorkers can continue to enjoy safe, healthy waterways while strengthening our region’s leadership in scientific innovation and environmental management.” “For over two decades, Congressman Kennedy has been an unwavering champion for clean water in Western New York at the local, state, and now federal level,” said Jill Jedlicka, Executive Director of Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper. “Water defined our region’s history, and it will define our future, and everyone from elected officials to area residents and youth leaders have a responsibility to be stewards and protectors of the largest source of fresh water in the world. We are grateful for the Congressman’s ongoing efforts to direct attention and funds to our region that will enable us to better monitor, assess, and seek out solutions for the most persistent water quality and shoreline challenges.” New York State Senator April N.M. Baskin said, “As climate change and pollution continue to impact our waterways, investments like this are critical. I’m grateful to Congressman Kennedy for securing this funding, which will not only protect public health, but build a stronger, more inclusive pipeline into environmental and STEM careers for our local students. It’s an investment in both our ecosystem and our future.” Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “This $443,000 in federal funding secured by Rep. Kennedy is a big step forward for protecting Lake Erie and the communities that rely on it. Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper does essential, on-the-ground work to monitor water quality, track threats like harmful algal blooms and E. coli, and make sure the public has timely, accurate information to stay safe. At the same time, this project gives local students a chance to get hands-on STEM experience, building skills while helping to better understand and protect our shoreline. This is a critical investment in both our environment and the next generation, at a time in which safety standards and environmental protections are being rolled back.” Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper’s programs fill the gaps in water quality monitoring and public notification of water quality threats, as well as shoreline risk assessment. The organization mobilizes staff and volunteers in the field to monitor water quality and ecological conditions, and is often looked to as the first line of defense in alerting the public to potential threats to human health attributed to increasing appearances of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) and E. coli bacterial contamination in local waterways. The organization’s place-based data collection and modeling for multiple shoreline risk assessment studies is unique in the Great Lakes. This federal funding will enable Waterkeeper to expand public awareness and understanding of Eastern Lake Erie, as well as enhance local knowledge around water quality, shoreline conditions, and ecosystem health while offering opportunities for local students in water education and STEM-based mentorship programs. The gathering of data is shared with local, state, and federal agencies and will contribute to the understanding of the condition of local recreational waters as a means to protect human health, inform pollution prevention, and identify potential community and shoreline risks and solutions. The secured funds will allow Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper to expand its water sampling and shoreline assessments across the entire Western New York Niagara River and Lake Erie watershed. This funding will support the following initiatives:

Statement from Congressman Kennedy on Trump’s Threats to Iran as his War of Choice Escalates

Position: Congressman Kennedy opposes the Trump administration's military action in Iran, characterizing it as an unauthorized war without congressional approval, clear objectives, or exit strategy. He calls for Congress to pass a war powers resolution to end the conflict.

Congressman Tim Kennedy issued the following statement today following President Trump’s latest comments on the war in Iran: “What the American people are witnessing from Donald Trump is weakness masquerading as strength. Threatening an entire civilization with annihilation, openly discussing the destruction of life-sustaining infrastructure, and preemptively confessing to war crimes is a stunning failure of leadership. “This war was started without the consent of the American people and without a vote of Congress. This President has no plan, no clear objectives, and no exit strategy. Working families across our nation are paying the price at the pump, the grocery store, and on their utility bills, footing the cost of a war they did not ask for and do not want. “While this administration chooses to spend billions of taxpayer dollars on a war of choice in the Middle East, I continue to stand firmly opposed to this reckless path. I call on Congressional Republicans to put our nation above their fear of President Trump and finally exercise the authority they have under the Constitution. Speaker Johnson must immediately bring a war powers resolution to the House Floor to bring an end to this illegal war and rein in this dangerous and delusional president.”

Statement from Congressman Kennedy on Erie County Medical Examiner Report on Cause of Death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam

Position: Congressman Kennedy attributes the death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam to inadequate medical care and DHS abandonment, and calls for DHS cooperation with state authorities and an independent investigation into the circumstances.

BUFFALO, N.Y. - Congressman Tim Kennedy issued the following statement today following the completion of the Erie County Medical Examiner’s report of the death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam: “The Erie County Medical Examiner has confirmed what we suspected: Mr. Shah Alam’s death has been ruled a homicide. “Mr. Shah Alam would be alive today with his family if he had access to medical care. Instead, he was callously abandoned on a cold winter night by Donald Trump’s Department of Homeland Security. “In light of this determination, DHS must fully cooperate with New York State Attorney General James, and newly-confirmed DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin must order an independent and transparent investigation.”

Strengthening Ties with Canada, Kennedy Secures More Than $1 Million for UB’s Center of Excellence for Cross-Border Supply Chains

New Initiative from UB, With Funding Secured by Kennedy, Will Help Small and Medium-Sized Businesses to Assess Cross-Border Opportunities and Tap Into Regional Capacity on Both Sides of the Border Initiative Will Help to Build a More Competitive and Inclusive WNY Economy, Emphasizing Region’s Strengths BUFFALO, N.Y. - Rep. Tim Kennedy (NY-26) announced today that he secured $1.03 million in federal funding for the University at Buffalo’s Center of Excellence for Cross-Border Supply Chains. Operating under the School of Management, the initiative will help small- and medium-sized businesses successfully navigate complex cross-border logistics and implement effective reshoring strategies to bring manufacturing back to our region. By leveraging the region’s proximity to Canada, as well as state-of-the-art resources like UB’s Empire AI, the Center will deploy faculty-led, student-supported teams to work directly with regional firms. They will analyze global supply networks, assess costs associated with labor, energy, and tariffs, and prototype localized supply chains rooted in Western New York’s strengths. In December 2025 alone, more than $5.7 billion in trade crossed the Niagara River.[1] Due to market volatility and tariffs, trade between Canada and the United States decreased in 2025, with goods imported from Canada down by 7% and goods exported to Canada down 3.8%.[2] Kennedy and UB’s initiative aims to jumpstart cross-border trade, create jobs, and strengthen local businesses. “Our region’s future is intrinsically linked to its relationship with Canada, and we cannot afford to let that opportunity languish," said Congressman Kennedy. “With roughly 60% of Canada’s population within 500 miles of the City of Good Neighbors, and with tens of billions of dollars crossing the Niagara every year, it’s critical that we strengthen our ties with our Canadians neighbors to create good-paying local jobs and ensure the long-term viability of our region’s economy. I’m excited to see the results that the bright minds at UB can achieve, and I look forward to building more connections with our Canadian friends.” "Thanks to the leadership of Congressman Kennedy, the University at Buffalo is advancing cross-border supply chains that are vital to Western New York’s economy,” said UB President Satish K. Tripathi. “By leveraging our world-class research, advanced analytics and the ingenuity of our faculty and students, we can translate knowledge into practical solutions that enhance manufacturing and foster robust economic growth. This federal support enables UB to deepen our collaboration with companies navigating complex networks, further reinforcing our region as a hub of innovation in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.” “In today's volatile global supply chains, small businesses face challenges in choosing the best mix of domestic sourcing, imports and export opportunities to maintain profitability, while also enabling local economic growth,” says Ananth Iyer, Dean of the University at Buffalo School of Management. “We appreciate the federal investment in a cross-border Center of Excellence that can bridge the gap between the School of Management-led analysis and data integration and practical small business specific business needs. Such activities align with our goal to engage for impact by creating opportunities for our students and faculty to solve real-world problems that can increase Western New York’s economic growth.” “The University at Buffalo’s Center of Excellence for Cross-Border Supply Chains is an exciting initiative that serves small and medium sized businesses with cross-border logistical and strategic support,” said Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes. “With today’s political climate, this kind of support is essential to keeping these businesses growing. I want to extend my thanks to Congressman Kennedy for providing this much needed funding, and to the University at Buffalo for continuing to innovate. Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said “This investment in the University at Buffalo’s Center of Excellence for Cross-Border Supply Chains is a smart, forward-looking step for our regional economy. I want to thank Congressman Kennedy for securing this critical funding to help local businesses unlock new cross-border opportunities, strengthen partnerships with our Canadian neighbors, and create good-paying jobs here at home. By leveraging our unique position as an international gateway, we’re ensuring Western New York remains a hub for innovation, trade, and economic growth.” Buffalo Niagara Partnership President and COO Grant Loomis said "As our region recovers from supply chain and trade disruptions, it is critical that we strengthen our domestic manufacturing capabilities and leverage our proximity to Canadian trading partners. This investment will provide much-needed assistance to businesses facing supply chain challenges. The BNP thanks Congressman Kennedy and the University at Buffalo for their efforts to bring this project to life." As global trade becomes increasingly volatile, building reliable supply chains closer to home is essential for economic security and growth. The Center of Excellence for Cross-Border Supply Chains will help to ensure that Western New York’s manufacturing sector remains strong for years to come. [1] https://www.bts.gov/newsroom/north-american-transborder-freight-increased-12-december-2025-december-2024 [2] https://ustr.gov/countries-regions/americas/canada#

Congressman Kennedy’s Statement on House Republicans Rejecting Bipartisan Deal to End DHS Shutdown

Position: Congressman Kennedy opposes the House Republican rejection of a bipartisan Senate bill to end the DHS shutdown. He supports the Senate bill to fund TSA, FEMA, and the Coast Guard, but opposes the House Republican alternative that increases ICE funding without oversight constraints.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Kennedy released the following statement following House Republicans’ decision to block the bipartisan agreement to end the shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS): “President Trump, Speaker Johnson, and House Republicans have made it clear to the American people that they own this shutdown. By rejecting a bipartisan bill unanimously passed by the U.S. Senate, they are demonstrating, once again, their inability to govern. Instead of restoring order at our airports and ensuring workers are paid, they are pushing voter suppression and endorsing ICE brutality upon the American people. “I was prepared to vote yes on the bipartisan Senate bill to fund TSA, FEMA, and the Coast Guard to safeguard our homeland’s security and end the madness at our nation's airports. Instead, I was forced to vote against a hyperpartisan bill that gives even more money to ICE with no assurances that this out-of-control agency that is terrorizing communities will follow the law or the Constitution. “House Democrats, Senate Democrats, and Senate Republicans are prepared to reopen our government and deliver for the American people. Speaker Johnson must bring the Senate bill to the floor immediately and end this shutdown.”