Nicole Malliotakis

Malliotakis Backs the Blue with Legislation to Protect Federal Law Enforcement Officers

Position: Congresswoman Malliotakis introduced H.R. 8796, the Federal Halo Act, which would create a 15-foot safety buffer around federal law enforcement officers and make it illegal to interfere with, obstruct, threaten, or harass officers performing official duties, with penalties up to five years in prison.

(WASHINGTON, DC) — This week, as the nation marks National Police Week, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) introduced H.R. 8796, the Federal Halo Act. The bill would create a commonsense safety buffer to better protect federal law enforcement officers from threats, harassment, and interference while they are carrying out their duties, specifically targeting agitators and individuals who are interfering or being disruptive. If enacted, the legislation would keep both law enforcement and the public safe. The legislation makes it illegal for anyone who has been told to stay back to knowingly come within 15 feet of a federal law enforcement officer while the officer is performing their official duties, if their intent is to interfere with or obstruct the officer’s work; threaten the officer with physical harm; or harass the officer. Anyone who violates this law could face a fine, up to five years in prison, or both. "During National Police Week and every week, I’m proud to back the blue by introducing legislation to better protect federal law enforcement officers from harassment, threats, and interference while they are doing their jobs," said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. "Our district is home to many brave law enforcement officers and their families, and I’ll always stand with those who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe." “In far too many jurisdictions across this country, individuals have felt increasingly emboldened to harass and interfere with lawful enforcement activities,” said Mathew Silverman, President, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association. “These individuals are not interested in peaceful protest; instead turning to violence and intimidation tactics against federal law enforcement. The ‘HALO Act’ will reverse this harmful trend, imposing tough penalties and increasing officer safety. FLEOA applauds Rep. Malliotakis for her leadership and look forward to working with her to see it enacted into law.” “The United States Park Police Fraternal Order of Police strongly supports the Federal Halo Act because a clear, reasonable safety buffer after a verbal warning makes these incidents safer for everyone involved - our officers, bystanders, and even the individual who may be interfering with a lawful police action. This protection is especially critical for the U.S. Park Police, whose officers are charged every day with protecting public safety while also safeguarding the freedom of expression at our nation’s most iconic landmarks and public spaces," said Kenneth Spencer, Chief of Staff, United States Park Police Fraternal Order of Police. Since 2021, Congresswoman Malliotakis has secured more than $10 million for the New York Police Department and New York City Department of Correction, including funding for personal protective equipment, forensic equipment, patrol response vehicles, fixed plate reader systems to target car thefts, K-9 training and equipment, tasers, and belt-worn trauma kits.

Malliotakis Introduces Legislation to Temporarily Suspend Federal Gas Tax

Position: The release advocates for temporarily suspending the federal gas tax for 90 days, with presidential authority to extend the suspension for up to 125 additional days, while replenishing highway and environmental trust funds through general revenue transfers to provide relief to drivers and businesses.

(WASHINGTON, DC) — Congressmembers Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) and Max Miller (R-OH), members of the House Ways and Means Committee, introduced H.R. 8753, the Gas Tax Relief Act, legislation to help lower prices at the pump by temporarily suspending the federal gas tax. The Gas Tax Relief Act would: Temporarily suspend the 18.4 cents-per-gallon federal tax on gasoline and the 24.4 cents-per-gallon federal tax on diesel fuel for 90 days after enactment. Gives the President authority to extend the suspension for up to an additional 125 days if he determines that economic conditions merit an extension. If the President determines that economic conditions warrant an extension, he may, during that 125-day period, incrementally restore the tax. The legislation replenishes the Highway Trust Fund and the Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) Trust Fund by transferring money from the Treasury’s General Revenue Fund. This ensures that infrastructure funding and the cleanup of petroleum leaks from underground storage tanks are not negatively impacted by the legislation. By temporarily pausing this tax, the bill aims to provide immediate relief to drivers, small businesses, truckers, and families facing high fuel costs. “Families, commuters, and small businesses across Staten Island, Brooklyn, and America feel the impact of fuel prices every day — whether it’s getting to work, bringing kids to school, making appointments, or keeping our economy moving,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “Temporarily suspending the federal gas tax is a commonsense way to provide immediate relief at the pump and put more money back in the pockets of hardworking Americans. While we continue working toward long-term energy independence, we should be using every tool available to lower costs for hardworking Americans now.” “I’ve said from my first moment as Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee that we need to be focused on delivering targeted relief to working families to make it easier for them to put clothes on their backs, food on their tables, and gasoline in their cars,” said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). “I appreciate Representative Malliotakis’s leadership in putting forward a thoughtful approach to address the short-term increase in gas prices, which is a significant concern for American families. I’m committed as chairman to delivering additional cost-of-living relief for working families that adds onto the significant relief we provided through the Working Families Tax Cuts.” “The federal gas tax was created to build the Interstate Highway System, and that project is complete. It’s time for Washington to recognize that reality and temporarily suspend the federal gas tax,” said Congressman Max Miller. “This legislation would provide immediate relief at the pump for hardworking Americans while giving the President flexibility to extend the suspension if economic conditions warrant it.”

Malliotakis, Local Officials and Residents Call for Federal Investigation into NYC Shelters

Position: Congresswoman Malliotakis calls for a federal Department of Justice investigation into New York City's homeless shelter contracting practices, citing concerns about no-bid contracts, excessive per-unit costs, potential fraud, and mismanagement.

(STATEN ISLAND, NY) — Today, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) called on the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate no-bid contracts tied to many New York City homeless shelters, citing a blatant lack of accountability and oversight and pointing to research showing out-of-control costs to taxpayers. She added that, based on her extensive research—including review of lucrative contracts, shady past dealings of some operators, and the recent indictments and the discovery of excessive per-unit costs—the City’s homeless shelter contracts raise serious concerns about corruption. In New York City alone, the Department of Homeless Services spends $8 billion annually on shelters, many of which are awarded through no-bid contracts. When broken down per unit, Malliotakis’ research found that costs in her district reach $9,103 per month at 109 Port Richmond Avenue and average $9,300 per month at Island Shores—both far exceeding the community’s average monthly rent of $1,698 or $3,800 mortgage payment. On March 31, 2026, a criminal indictment was unsealed by the United States Department of Justice charging four individuals tied to a nonprofit operating homeless shelters in New York City. The indictment alleges the leaders of the organization stole approximately $1.3 million from the taxpayer-backed nonprofit and steered millions of dollars in contracts to favored vendors in exchange for bribes and kickbacks. An Associated Press News report from October 18, 2024, details findings from a yearlong investigation by the New York City Department of Investigation, uncovering widespread mismanagement, self-dealing, and nepotism in New York City’s homeless shelter system which has raised serious concerns about how these contracts are being awarded. Malliotakis is now calling on the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate these lucrative shelter contracts for potential fraud and abuse of taxpayer dollars. The growing number of homeless shelters in her district—enabled in part by New York City’s Right to Shelter laws and a contracting system that routinely bypasses competitive bidding—warrants rigorous federal scrutiny. Additionally, Congresswoman Malliotakis highlighting how the city is ignoring zoning and environmental laws by attempting to place shelters in Special Flood Hazard or Freshwater Wetlands Areas and has placed shelters in buildings with J-2 occupancy classification which allows for only permanent residences. “New York City’s shelter system has become a business, with lucrative contracts costing taxpayers much more per unit than they would pay for monthly rent or mortgage payments,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “Since Bill de Blasio, the shelter population has doubled—and now Mayor Mamdani is proposing even more shelters in our district and across the city with shady contracts to questionable operators. From Port Richmond to Midland Beach, and Bensonhurst to Tottenville, the city is warehousing the homeless without helping them transition out and fleecing taxpayers in the process. This is not compassion—it’s failed leadership and possibly corruption, which is why we are calling on the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate these shady contracts.”  “When the City makes decisions that impact New Yorkers’ lives and quality of life and there are allegations of misconduct, there must be a prompt and independent investigation done and all those involved must be held accountable. There is no room for corruption in government, especially when it could have real and dire consequences for our hardworking constituents who live and work here,” said Senator Jessica-Scarcella Spanton. "What I see is a tree growing out of the concrete jungle of NYC, the fruit is money, and everyone is picking the fruit as the tree grows. We have predatory and deceptive, no doubt corrupted developers of questionable characters, and of course, elected officials with their hands in the cookie jar. And no one at the state level is willing to investigate these people. The ledgers that I’ve seen, total into the billions spent in regards to these shelters. It’s about money, not about the homeless. I commend, and join Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis in calling for federal inquiry, intervention, and investigation by the Dept. of Justice. Hopefully there will finally be some accountability, and oversight with these shelters," said Senator Steve Chan. “We should be working to reduce homelessness, and not be in the business of keeping people homeless. An investigation by the DOJ is beyond warranted. I want to thank Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis for leading this fight and the Port Richmond – North Shore Alliance for their work in bringing this situation to light," said Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo. “These shelter contracts raise serious red flags, and taxpayers deserve clear answers,” said Assemblyman Michael Tannousis. “We’re seeing skyrocketing costs, a lack of transparency, and little accountability for how these agreements are being awarded and managed. We cannot allow a system like this to continue unchecked. It’s time for a thorough federal investigation to restore trust and ensure every taxpayer dollar is being spent responsibly.” “The city has awarded billions of taxpayer dollars in emergency contracts for homeless shelters over the past decade, often with little transparency and oversight. The fact that one of these contracts recently resulted in a federal indictment for an alleged bribery and kickback scheme should raise public alarm, and prompts questions about other potential criminality we don't know about. Congresswoman Malliotakis is right to call for the DOJ to further investigate whether there has been fraud, waste and corruption in this murky homeless shelter contracting process," said City Council Minority Leader David Carr. View Malliotakis' letter to the U.S. Department of Justice HERE. View Press Conference Video HERE.

Malliotakis Votes To Save Local Healthcare Workers From Deportation

Position: Congresswoman Malliotakis voted to restore Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 350,000 Haitian nationals, arguing that these workers fill critical healthcare and hospitality sector staffing shortages, pay taxes, and contribute economically to the United States.

(WASHINGTON, DC) — Today, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis voted to restore temporary protections for approximately 350,000 Haitian nationals legally residing in the United States, following the Trump Administration's termination of the program which has been stalled pending legal challenges. After the Trump Administration lost two consecutive rounds in court, the case is now pending appeal before the U.S. Supreme Court. TPS holders must continuously meet eligibility requirements, including being “admissible” and not having disqualifying criminal issues. 80% of TPS holders are in the workforce primarily in the healthcare and hospitality industries, addressing key staffing shortages and fulfilling an economic and healthcare need. The remaining 20% are mostly students, children or retired seniors. “We’ve heard from nursing homes in our district that will lose skilled and dedicated nursing staff if TPS is not renewed. These are Haitian immigrants who are working, paying taxes and contributing to our economy and fulfilling a healthcare need. At a time when our healthcare system continues to face workforce shortages, their role is more important than ever. To strip them of their status and deport them to a country in peril would be uncompassionate and misguided," said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. Local organizations and community leaders voiced their support for Malliotakis' vote: “In more than 40 years in hospital administration, including many years in Human Resources, I can testify to the great support given through the employment of healthcare workers from many nations. A vital and significant portion of that support has come from those who have emigrated from Haiti. Following training and licensing in the United States Haitian immigrants, through their devoted efforts and dedicated service, have greatly helped fill gaps and reduce staffing shortages that would otherwise have hindered hospitals’ abilities to provide care. There is no doubt that extension of protective status allows for continued quality and safe staffing in acute care and extended care facilities," said Anthony C. Ferreri, Presidential appointee as Regional Director of the United States Department of Health and Human Services during President Donald Trump’s first term and former President and CEO of Staten Island University Hospital and Executive Vice President of Northwell Health. “Forcing people with temporary status who are working and filling an economic need to go back to their country will have a devastating effect on our business. The fact is, it is difficult to hire people who want to clean guest rooms, wash dishes, clean pots, landscape our properties and prep food for our kitchens. we need the immigrants to run our businesses. Our grandparents were immigrants, which became the foundation for our success. These people just want to work hard and fulfill the American dream," said Richard and Lois Nicotra, owners of Staten Island’s Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton Inn Hotels. “Our nursing homes are already facing a historic labor crisis, and the failure to extend TPS is making it impossible for providers like ArchCare to retain staff. ArchCare alone has lost more than 15 qualified caregivers on Staten Island recently—not because these workers don't want to serve, but because their status was allowed to lapse. We need an immediate resolution to stop this bleeding of talent before patient care is further compromised,” said Scott LaRue President & CEO of ArchCare, which operates in the district including Carmel Richmond Nursing Home and Eger Health Care and Rehabilitation Center. "The Community Health Center of Richmond, Inc. located in Staten Island, New York, and similar community health centers throughout New York State and the country, face ongoing workforce challenges in the midst of growing demand for quality primary health care services. Many of our sites are located in Health Professional Shortage Areas and as a result all efforts are needed to ensure that we stop the loss of dedicated health care workers. Therefore, we support the extension of TPS policies as an initial step to a permanent solution to this longstanding issue," said Dr. Henry Thompson, CEO for the Community Health Center of Richmond, Inc. “We thank Representative Malliotakis for her leadership in supporting the extension of Temporary Protected Status for Haitians, which is vital to helping restaurants meet their workforce needs, strengthening the local economy, and enabling individuals to build better lives. Policies that bolster our economy and support small businesses should bring people together across party lines,” said Andrew Rigie, Executive Director of the New York City Hospitality Alliance. “The Healthcare Association of New York State thanks Rep. Nicole Malliotakis for her vote yesterday in support of House legislation that would restore Temporary Protected Status for Haitian immigrants, many of whom serve within New York’s hospitals, nursing homes and other healthcare settings. We appreciate Rep. Malliotakis’ leadership and recognition that, during a time when we are facing a severe healthcare workforce shortage, we must protect pathways that fill essential caregiver roles and preserve patient access to care," said HANYS President Bea Grause, RN, JD. “Over several years, New Millenium has had a vast amount of experience in training nurses aides and home health aides from Haiti who went on to be licensed by NYS and become gainfully employed in hospitals and nursing homes. New Millenium Home Care has, itself, employed many of its Haitian graduates who have gone on to provide skilled and compassionate care through its home care agency. Their continued support is greatly needed throughout the healthcare industry," said Arthur Lauder, President of the New Millenium Training Center. "A significant portion of the home care workforce is made up of home health attendants who rely on TPS status. When these workers are pushed out of the system, the ripple effect is immediate and devastating. Agencies lose staff. Families lose support. And statewide, thousands of individuals will be left with no option but nursing home placement. Most of these families have not had to prepare for a sudden loss of services. The disruption will create enormous strain on families, estates, and caregivers who are already facing maximum pressure. People who have expressed a clear desire to live out their final years at home, in dignity and peace, will have that choice taken away permanently. This workforce shortage is not just an operational problem. It is a human crisis with consequences that will be felt across New York for years to come and that affect human rights, dignity and freedom of choice," said ACT Cares Foundation Administrator Ann Selfridge, whose organization supports caregivers and families across the district by expanding access to resources and strengthening community-based care. "This legislation is both compassionate and practical. Haitian immigrants are an essential part of our communities and workforce, particularly in critical healthcare and caregiving sectors. Many serve as deeply dedicated home health aides, hospital staff, and caregivers who provide indispensable support to our elderly, vulnerable, and medically complex populations. At a time when healthcare systems continue to face workforce shortages, the loss of these workers would have serious and immediate consequences. Hospitals, long-term care settings, rehabilitation centers, and home-based care programs rely heavily on Haitian professionals who bring extraordinary commitment to patient care," said Claudette Duff, CEO of Integrity Senior Services, which specializes in at home treatment of older adults, caregivers, and the disabled throughout the district.

Malliotakis, IRS Head Highlight New Tax Relief in Brooklyn as Tax Day Nears

(BROOKLYN, NY) — Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis welcomed Frank Bisignano, Chief Executive Officer of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, to Brooklyn as they discussed new tax relief for working families and seniors that has already put more money back in Americans’ pockets. Additionally, they toured the Bensonhurst Social Security Office, where they discussed ongoing improvements to Social Security customer service and expanded access to appointments. Recent data from the IRS shows that over 80% of refunds were issued in less than 21 days, with the average refund this year at $3,571. The average refund is up by more than 10 percent, with total refunds now at more than $202 billion. Additionally, the Working Families Tax Cuts delivers significant relief and economic growth, including a $90 billion tax cut for hourly overtime workers, $32 billion in tax relief for tipped workers, and $63 billion in tax relief for seniors. The legislation is projected to generate $284 billion in economic growth from manufacturers and drive more than $100 billion in new investments in opportunity zones. It also provides a $10,900 boost in take-home pay for a family with two children, secures 7.2 million American jobs, and delivers a boosted Child Tax Credit to 40 million American families. Congresswoman Malliotakis also discussed her legislation H.R.5475 - No Tax on Overtime for All Workers Act which updates the tax code’s outdated definition of overtime so more workers—like first responders, hospital staff, and transportation workers—qualify for tax-free overtime pay or have the same threshold as the result of the economy. It ensures these workers are treated the same as others, allowing them to claim up to $25,000 of overtime income exempt from federal taxes. “We are glad to welcome Chief Executive Officer of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Commissioner of the Social Security Administration Frank Bisignano to the Social Security Office in Bensonhurst, and appreciate the work Social Security offices have done to improve customer service and expand access to appointments," said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. "This tax season, millions of working Americans and middle-class families, including those here in Brooklyn, are already seeing the impact of the Working Families Tax Cuts as they file their taxes with the average refund up by more than 10%. From no tax on Social Security for our seniors, to no tax on most tips and overtime, an increased Child Tax Credit, Standard Deduction, State and Local Tax Deduction, and newly created newborn baby savings accounts, we remain focused on delivering for the American people and putting more money back in their pockets, not Uncle Sam’s." "45% of the returns that come in have benefited from one of deductions, at least, no tax on tip, no tax on overtime, no tax on car loan interest, a special deduction for seniors and a permanent extension for several important existing tax provisions," said Frank Bisignano, Chief Executive Officer of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Commissioner of the Social Security Administration. "It's my honor to say the great job being done here by Congresswoman Malliotakis, the great leadership provided by President Trump, the great leadership for Treasury by Secretary Bessent has allowed us to be able to execute on a mission that many thought could be too hard, but of course, it wasn't. Great leadership at the top, superior execution within the agencies and a very satisfied set of American taxpayers and Social Security recipients." Watch the Press Conference HERE. New Changes to the Tax Code: Increased State and Local Tax (SALT) Deduction: The State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction has been quadrupled to $40,000 for individuals and families earning less than $500,000, covering 98% of households in NY-11 and allowing for increased deductions for local income and property taxes. No Tax on Social Security for Seniors: A new bonus deduction was created for seniors aged 65 and older—$6,000 for individuals with income up to $75,000 and $12,000 for married couples earning up to $150,000, eliminating their tax burden on Social Security benefits. The amount of the deduction decreases as income increases. As a result, 51 million seniors receiving Social Security (an estimated 88%) will pay no tax on those benefits. Increased Standard Deduction: The Standard Deduction increases to $15,750 for individuals, $23,625 for heads of households, and $31,500 for married couples for tax year 2025. No Tax on Tips: Tipped workers, will receive significant tax relief. The maximum annual deduction is $25,000, which phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers). No Tax on Overtime Pay: Individuals who receive qualified overtime pay may deduct the pay that exceeds their regular rate of pay (generally, the “half” portion of “time-and-a-half” compensation) that is required by the Fair Labor Standards Act and reported on a Form W-2, Form 1099, or other specified statement furnished to the individual. The maximum annual deduction is $12,500 ($25,000 for joint filers). The deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers). The deduction is available for both itemizing and non-itemizing taxpayers. Putting Working Families First: The Child Tax Credit increased up to $2,200 per child, if your annual income is not more than $200,000 ($400,000 if filing a joint return). Trump Accounts were also created for newborn babies and feature a contribution of $1,000 for every American child born between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2028. The account is fully in the child’s name, and the parent/guardian is the sole custodian until the child turns 18. No contributions are necessary—but you can deposit up to $5,000 per year to maximize growth. The legislation expands 529 education savings accounts, supports scholarships and school choice. Tax Deduction for American Manufactured Vehicles: Individuals may deduct up to a maximum annual deduction of $10,000 in interest paid on a loan used to purchase a qualified American manufactured vehicle for personal use. The deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $100,000 ($200,000 for joint filers). The vehicle must have undergone final assembly in the United States and the loan must have originated after December 31, 2024. In March, Malliotakis wrote in the Brooklyn Daily Eagle about how new tax relief is putting money back in the pockets of working families and seniors.

Malliotakis Backs Bipartisan Bills to Strengthen Women’s Health Care Access

Position: Congresswoman Malliotakis supports two bipartisan bills to expand access to fertility treatments including IVF and to improve access to long-acting reversible contraception at community health centers, particularly in underserved areas.

(WASHINGTON, DC) — Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis has introduced two bipartisan bills alongside her colleagues to expand access to women’s health care. The first, H.R. 8119, the HOPE with Fertility Services Act, aims to increase access to infertility treatments—including IVF—and ensure patients can receive the care they need. The second, H.R. 8084, the Access to LARCs Act, focuses on improving access to long-acting reversible contraception by identifying barriers at community health centers and providing recommendations to expand availability. The HOPE with Fertility Services Act Provides coverage for infertility and iatrogenic infertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization, egg and embryo cryopreservation, ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination, and related procedures. It ensures coverage for individuals diagnosed with conditions that prevent conception or carrying a pregnancy to term, as well as those experiencing unexplained infertility. Directs plans and issuers to implement utilization management tools consistent with clinical guidelines and submit annual analyses to the Secretary of HHS. Requires corrective action if coverage standards are not met, ensuring accountability and enforcement of patient access to fertility care. The Access to LARCs Act LARCs (Long-Acting Reversible Contraception) are highly effective, low-maintenance birth control methods that prevent pregnancy for 3 to 10+ years. They include implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs). This legislation directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a national study on access to the full range of contraceptive methods at community health centers located in underserved areas or health care deserts. The goal is to identify barriers that limit women’s access to contraception—particularly long‑acting reversible contraception (LARC)—and provide Congress with actionable recommendations to improve availability. “So many loving couples want to start a family but struggle with infertility. With soaring out-of-pocket costs for in vitro treatment and other fertility care, Americans are oftentimes prevented from being able to have children,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “The HOPE with Fertility Services Act would expand coverage and provide access to fertility treatments for millions of Americans who dream of expanding their family but have faced difficulties due to disease, ailment, or unexplained infertility. I also join my colleagues in supporting the Access to LARCs Act, which focuses on improving access to long-acting reversible contraception and ensuring availability of highly effective birth control options. This legislation will identify areas in the United States that lack access to these medications and, by reducing barriers, help more women access dependable care and make informed choices.” “As a father of six, I’ll never have a more important title than ‘Dad.’ Starting a family is one of the biggest dreams couples have, and no one should be denied that opportunity because of infertility, cancer treatments, or cost,” said Rep. Zach Nunn. “The HOPE with Fertility Services Act makes sure that fertility care is within reach for every family — not just those who can afford it or happen to have the right insurance plan. This isn’t a Republican or Democrat idea — it’s an American one, and I’m proud of the strong bipartisan support behind it.” “Infertility impacts millions of families and it doesn’t discriminate. It can affect anyone who wants to start or grow a family,” said Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz. “I know firsthand. Thanks to IVF, my husband and I conceived our twins, now both healthy young adults. But after enduring that struggle, I’ve fought to expand insurance coverage for the prohibitively costly fertility treatments that can make this only accessible to the very few who can afford it. As a breast cancer survivor, I’m also concerned with how a diagnosis, and treatments can affect survivors’ ability to conceive or even prevent cancer from being genetically passed on. So, for many survivors with a BRCA gene mutation, like me, IVF can be a godsend.” “For millions of Americans, the ability to build a family is deeply personal—but too often, it is made unnecessarily difficult by cost and limited access to care,” said Rep. Laurel Lee. “Infertility affects families in every corner of our country, regardless of background or income, yet access to treatment too often depends on those very factors—and that is not acceptable. The HOPE with Fertility Services Act is about changing that by ensuring families have a real opportunity—not just in theory, but in practice—to grow and thrive. This bipartisan legislation gives Americans what they deserve: the chance to pursue the American Dream and the hope of becoming parents. Strong families are the foundation of a strong nation, and this bill is an investment in the future of our country.” “My grandkids are one of the greatest joys of my life and they wouldn’t be here today without fertility services. The average cost of IVF treatment can cost anywhere between $15,000-$30,000 and most insurance plans are not required to cover this cost,” said Donald Rep. Norcross. “The HOPE with Fertility Services Act makes starting a family possible for the millions of Americans across the country who struggle to bring a child into our world. I won’t ever stop fighting to make healthcare more affordable and accessible for all who need it.”

Malliotakis: Turkey’s F-16 Deployment to Occupied Cyprus Concerning, Urges Lifting of Cyprus Arms Embargo

Position: The congresswoman opposes Turkey's F-16 deployment to occupied Cyprus and advocates for lifting the U.S. arms embargo on Cyprus to strengthen its defensive capabilities and regional stability.

(WASHINGTON, DC) — Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis released the following statement on Turkey’s F-16 deployment to occupied Cyprus, urging the lifting of the U.S. arms embargo on Cyprus. "Turkey's decision to deploy F-16s to occupied Cyprus—in direct violation of U.S. law—is a brazen provocation against a key partner in the Eastern Mediterranean and an insult to every American taxpayer who funds our security partnerships. This deployment clearly in addition to previous illegal overflights above NATO ally Greece's islands, show that Turkey cannot be trusted with advanced American military hardware. It endangers Cyprus's sovereignty, destabilizes the region, and calls for a response from Congress. That response is H.R. 4413, the End Cyprus Embargo Act, which recently passed out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and I am proud to co-lead alongside Reps. Pappas, Bilirakis, Titus, and Kean. Our bill removes the outdated arms embargo on the Republic of Cyprus—a sovereign, democratic ally—and ensures our partners in the Eastern Mediterranean can defend themselves. I urge House leadership to bring our legislation to the floor without delay. The urgency couldn't be clearer. The State Department has increased the travel advisory for Cyprus to Level 3 and authorized non-emergency personnel to leave. Cyprus, again, will serve as a vital humanitarian hub for civilians fleeing the Middle East, including American citizens. We should ensure they are equipped with the best defensive systems available. The arms embargo doesn’t just block Cyprus from getting weapons—it also prevents them from planning for future threats. Because the current waiver is only for one year at a time, Cyprus cannot sign multiyear procurement and sustainment contracts needed for advanced air defense systems. As a result, they lack the capabilities necessary to intercept the drone threats we see today. Remove the embargo permanently, and Cyprus would likely start buying these systems from U.S. industry — a win for our ally, a boost for American defense jobs, and a step toward regional stability. Actions have consequences. Turkey's conduct in Cyprus must be addressed with action, not silence."

Committee Passes Malliotakis’ Women’s Museum Bill Along Party Lines

(WASHINGTON, DC) — Today, the Committee on House Administration passed along party lines, 7 Republicans to 4 Democrats, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis' legislation, H.R. 1329, the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Act, which would transfer federal land to build the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum on the National Mall. "We are pleased to see my legislation which would transfer federal land to build the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum on the National Mall advance today out of the Committee on House Administration. However, it's unfortunate that, despite having more than 230 bipartisan cosponsors and the support of President Trump, this legislation passed out of Committee (7-4) along party lines, with the Democrats opposing it, simply because language was added via amendment by Rep. Mary Miller to ensure the museum exhibits only biological women. Following the legislative hearing in the House Committee on Natural Resources, clarifying language was added to address issues raised to: Make clear that only biological women can be exhibited. Specify the site selected by the Women’s Museum Advisory Council, while allowing the President the discretion to change the location within 180 days if issues arise. These were reasonable requests that should have been supported in a bipartisan manner, but I am disappointed they were not. Nonetheless, the bill passed out of the Committee on House Administration, and I'm optimistic and hopeful that the House will pass this legislation swiftly during this Women's History Month."