Velázquez Calls Release of HUD Puerto Rico Funds “Inexcusably Overdue”
Representative Nydia Velázquez (D-LES, Brooklyn, Queens) released a statement yesterday following the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) decision to release congressionally approved aid to Puerto Rico.
Yesterday, the White House confirmed that they would finally lift a hold on disaster relief funds for Puerto Rico, after delaying them for over a year.
“While it is a welcome development that the Administration has released its hold on these funds, this step is inexcusably overdue,” said Velázquez. “Congress approved this disaster relief almost two years ago and these ongoing delays speak to the Administration’s disdain for the people of Puerto Rico.
“Going forward, I will be focused on seeing that FEMA and other federal agencies respond effectively and compassionately to the recent earthquakes. The White House can start by issuing a ‘major disaster’ declaration as the Governor of Puerto Rico has requested. We cannot afford for the Trump Administration to repeat the mistakes of Maria, which cost thousands of our fellow citizens their lives. Our government must do better.”
Rosenthal to Attend Women’s “Rise and Roar” March
Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal (D-Upper West Side, Hell’s Kitchen) will be joining the “Rise and Roar” Women’s Unity March and Rally this Saturday.
The women there will be rallying in support of a plethora of causes, including reproductive rights, LGBTQ equality, disability rights and environmental justice.
The event will begin on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 10 a.m. at Foley Square.
Hoylman Applauds Cancellation of High Line Wall Plan
State Senator Brad Hoylman (D-Chelsea, Midtown) released a statement yesterday following Related Companies’ announcement that they were cancelling their plan for a wall at the High Line.
Last week, Related Companies came out with a plan for a twenty-foot-tall next to the High Line. The wall would have allow for the construction of a parking garage underneath. Yesterday, the company announced that the plans were off as a result of significant backlash.
“The High Line is – and always should be – a public space for all New Yorkers to enjoy,” said Hoylman. “I’m pleased to see Related backing down from their plan to build a 20-foot high concrete wall that would have cut off the High Line from new open space.
“Too many billionaires want New York City to be their private playground. But when New Yorkers stand together, we can ensure there’s a place for all of us in this city.”
Maloney Votes to Proceed with Impeachment
Representative Carolyn Maloney (D-Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens) released a statement yesterday following her vote on a resolution to appoint impeachment managers and transmit the articles of impeachment to the Senate.
The selected impeachment managers were as follows: Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA); Representative Jerrold Nadler (D-Manhattan, Brooklyn); Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-CA); Representative Hakeem Jeffries (D-Brooklyn, Queens); Representative Val Demings (D-FL); Representative Jason Crow (D-CO); and Representative Sylvia Garcia (D-TX). The resolution passed with a vote of 228-193.
“As members of the House of Representatives, we upheld our oath of office to hold the President accountable for abusing his power and obstructing Congress for his own personal and political gain,” said Maloney. “Despite President Trump’s efforts to conceal his actions, Congress continues to uncover overwhelming evidence of the President’s scheme. The Senate must now conduct a fair trial by obtaining documents and hearing from key witnesses. The Constitution demands it and the American people deserve it.”
