I On Politics – Western Queens Gazette

DENOUNCE ‘HATEFUL COMMENTS’ BY CANDIDATE: Assemblywoman Cathy Nolan (D-Ridgewood) joins former Assemblymember Mike Miller (D-Glendale) and community leader Diane Ballek in “condemning the hateful comments made by Juan Ardila, candidate for City Council, District 30.”

“The hate-filled social media posts written by Mr. Ardila which have recently come to light are deeply troubling, and are a sufficient cause to reject Juan Ardila as an appropriate candidate for elected office,” Assemblywoman Nolan said. “I am reminded of the extremely duplicitous behavior of Mr. Ardila when he came to the Ridgewood Democratic Club last year, before the COVID-19 outbreak. Because he was young, I gave him the benefit of the doubt, but as the ignorant rhetoric demonstrated in his posts has shown, it seems that this young man has had difficulties with the truth, and his moral principles, for some time.”

“In the wake of so much recent anti-Asian violence, it was particularly shocking to read posts from a candidate for City Council, Juan Ardila, which ring with hate,” said former Assemblymember Miller. “The racist statements which have been made by Ardila in this race are disqualifying – our communities need mature leaders who will fight for our neighborhood’s share of city services, and support our communities.”

“My brother Kevin Czartoryski was a first-grade Detective in the NYPD; he was a member of the LGBT community, and a proud Polish-American; he died of a 9/11-related illness,” said community leader Diane Ballek. “It is disturbing and disheartening to see social media posts written by a candidate for the New York City Council which are hateful and disparaging, both to my family, and our Maspeth community. Juan Ardila has has shown his true colors, and his prejudiced rhetoric must not be ignored.”

Senator Joe Addabbo also released a statement: “I was surprised and disappointed to see the online statements made by City Council candidate, Juan Ardila. Even though these posts were made years ago, the fact that an individual can possess these thoughts and express these improper and offensive sentiments online towards women, the gay community, Asians, people of color, and the Jewish community is unacceptable. I believe a candidate for office could have initially addressed this issue better than merely hitting the delete button. That delete button does not erase the fact that those unacceptable statements were actually out there for years for everyone to see.”

‘YES VAXED, NO MASKS’: Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced on April 27 that New York State will adopt the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s new guidance on mask use for fully vaccinated people. The guidelines state that fully vaccinated people, defined as two or more weeks after receiving the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine, no longer need to wear masks outdoors, except in certain crowded settings and venues. However, masks should still be worn indoors and should still be worn by people who are not fully vaccinated. This guidance reemphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated and closely adhering to public health guidance, particularly if you are not yet vaccinated. Fully vaccinated individuals with immuno-compromising conditions should consult with their healthcare provider first.

“The CDC announced new guidance today saying that when Americans who are fully vaccinated are outside, biking, hiking, running, or in small gatherings, you don’t need to wear a mask. That is liberating, especially now that the weather is getting warmer,” Governor Cuomo said. ”New York has adopted that guidance, so that’s going to go into effect in the State also and we want to thank CDC for that. This news underscores the fact that if you get vaccinated, more freedom is available to you, and I encourage all eligible New Yorkers who have not yet received the vaccine to make an appointment today.”

According to the new CDC guidance, fully vaccinated people can engage in more activities than unvaccinated people, which include:

• Fully vaccinated workers no longer need to be restricted from work following an exposure as long as they are asymptomatic
• Fully vaccinated residents of non-healthcare congregate settings no longer need to quarantine following a known exposure
• Visit with other fully vaccinated people indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing
• Visit with unvaccinated people (including children) from a single household who are at low risk for severe COVID-19 disease indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing
• Participate in outdoor activities and recreation without a mask, except in certain crowded settings and venues
• Resume domestic travel and refrain from testing before or after travel or self-quarantine after travel
• Refrain from testing before leaving the United States for international travel (unless required by the destination) and refrain from self-quarantine after arriving back in the United States.
• Refrain from testing following a known exposure, if asymptomatic, with some exceptions for specific settings
• Refrain from quarantine following a known exposure if asymptomatic
• Refrain from routine screening testing if asymptomatic and feasible (in nonhealthcare settings)

This modification will be noticed to the legislature, but will take effect immediately using the exigency provisions of Ch. 71 of the laws of 2021, enacted earlier this year.

UPDATE: FOOD, BEVERAGE CURFEW TO END: Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced on April 28 that the 12 a.m. food and beverage service curfew will be lifted for outdoor dining areas beginning May 17 and for indoor dining areas beginning May 31.

Governor Cuomo also announced that the 1 a.m. curfew for catered events where attendees have provided proof of vaccination status or a recent negative COVID-19 test result will be lifted beginning May 17, with the curfew for all catered events set to be lifted May 31.

Additionally, the Governor announced that catered events can resume at residences beginning May 3 above the State’s residential gathering limit of 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors, as long as the events are staffed by a professional, licensed caterer, permitted by the respective locality or municipality, and strictly adhere to health and safety guidance, including social and event gathering limits, masks, and social distancing. Also on May 3, the guidance for dancing among attendees at catered events will be aligned with neighboring states, replacing fixed dance zones for each table with social distancing and masks.

Finally, the Governor announced that starting May 3, seating at bars will be allowed in New York City, consistent with the food services guidance that is in effect statewide.

“We know the COVID positivity rate is a function of our behavior, and over the last year New Yorkers have remained disciplined and continued with the practices we know work to stop the spread of the virus,” Governor Cuomo said. “Everything we’ve been doing is working, all the arrows are pointing in the right direction and now we’re able to increase economic activity even more. Lifting these restrictions for restaurants, bars and catering companies will allow these businesses that have been devastated by the pandemic to begin to recover as we return to a new normal in a post-pandemic world. To be clear: we will only be able to maintain this progress if everyone gets the COVID vaccine. It is the weapon that will win the war and we need everyone to take it, otherwise we risk going backward.”

This announcement on food and beverage service and catered events builds on the Governor’s recent measures to further re-open the economy amid a steady decline in New York’s COVID-19 positivity and hospitalization rates. On April 26, Governor Cuomo announced that spectator capacity at large-scale outdoor event venues, including professional and collegiate sports and live performing arts and entertainment, will increase from 20 to 33 percent beginning May 19. This increase will coincide with the previously announced increase in large-scale indoor event venue capacity. Social distancing, masks, health screenings and all other State health and safety protocols remain in effect.

The Governor also announced that capacities would be increased throughout several industries that have proven to safely reopen in accordance with the State’s COVID-19 health and safety guidelines, starting May 15:

• Gyms and fitness centers outside of New York City will increase from 33% to 50% capacity.
• Casinos and gaming facilities will increase from 25% to 50% capacity.
• Offices will increase from 50% to 75% capacity.

INDOOR DINING TO 75 PERCENT CAPACITY: Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced on April 30 that New York City indoor dining will expand to 75 percent capacity beginning Friday, May 7. This brings New York City in line with the rest of New York State. The Governor also announced that hair salons, barber shops and other personal care services will expand to 75 percent capacity beginning May 7. New York City gyms and fitness centers will expand to 50 percent capacity beginning May 15. All changes are subject to state public health guidance, including social distancing and masks.

The Governor also announced that he will rescind the Executive Order establishing the micro-cluster zone strategy in light of New York State’s progress against the COVID-19 pandemic. Applicable state public health guidance must still be followed for all industries.

“After a long and incredibly difficult fight, New York State is winning the war against COVID-19, and that means it’s time to loosen some restrictions put in place to protect the public health and help our local businesses,” Governor Cuomo said. “There’s no doubt that restaurants have been among the pandemic’s hardest hit businesses, and New York City’s thriving restaurant industry has found it challenging to keep staff and maintain profits. We’re easing restrictions on restaurants, personal care services and gyms to put more money in the pockets of small business owners and working people in New York City, which was hit so hard by the pandemic but, I have no doubt, will come back stronger than ever.”

NYC Hospitality Alliance Executive Director Andrew Rigie said, “New York City’s hospitality industry has been decimated by the pandemic, and while there is still a long road to recovery, Governor Cuomo’s announcement earlier this week on easing restaurant and bar restrictions, along with today’s news that indoor dining occupancy will increase to 75% in the five boroughs provides a shot of optimism to small business owners and workers who have been financially devastated over the past year. We look forward to working with Governor Cuomo’s administration to safely reopen New York City, so we can get the restaurant capital of the world cooking again.”

Queens Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Thomas J. Grech said, “We are grateful that additional small businesses will be allowed to open for longer periods of time. It is gratifying to see this as we approach late spring and early summer when so many restaurants increase their business.”

NYC WILL REOPEN TO 100% CAPACITY ON JULY 1: On April 29, Senator Joseph Addabbo released the following statement: “I am thrilled to hear that New York City is on track to fully open again on July 1. This is great news for our local economy as more people will be able to support our local businesses since our restaurants, bars, offices, stores and shops, and other businesses and facilities will be able to have 100% capacity. This will also go a long way in putting thousands of New Yorkers back to work. I applaud the Mayor for following the science and making this decision. While we are seeing our COVID-19 numbers steadily on the decline, we must continue to get vaccinated (whoever hasn’t already), and stay on top of keeping COVID at bay by washing your hands and wearing masks indoors when it makes sense, as we do not want the virus or any of its variants to gain another foothold in the city and begin to spread again.”

APPLY NOW: $28B RESTAURANT REVITALIZATION FUND: Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) announced on April 30 that applications for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund would open Monday, May 3, making billions of dollars in direct aid available to independent restaurants, bars, food trucks, caterers, and others in the food and drink industry who have been impacted by COVID-19. Established under the American Rescue Plan, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund will provide a total of $28.6 billion in direct relief to restaurants and other hard-hit food establishments.

“After a challenging year for restaurants, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund will provide much needed aid to help New York City food and service industry survive,” said Congresswoman Maloney. “This fund will provide billions in aid to restaurants, food trucks, caterers, and other business owners who have faced incredible challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. These businesses are vital to our City’s culture and economy and I encourage all those who are eligible to register today. Our City wouldn’t be the same without you.”

The Small Business Administration (SBA) recommends that qualifying applicants familiarize themselves with the application process in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient application experience, specifically by:

• Registering for an account in advance at restaurants.sba.gov now.
• Reviewing the official guidance, including program guide, frequently asked questions, and application sample.
• Preparing the required documentation.
• Working with a point-of-sale vendor or visiting restaurants.sba.gov to submit an application when the application portal opens. [Note: If an applicant is working with a point-of-sale vendor, they do not need to register beforehand on the site.]

Grants under the Restaurant Revitalization Fund program are tax-free federal grants and do not need to be repaid. They are also more flexible than funds provided by the Paycheck Protection Program, answering a call from restaurant and bar owners for more versatility with relief funds. Restaurants can use this new funding to cover a range of expenses besides payroll, including rent, construction, maintenance and more.

The program makes up to $5 million in grants available per restaurant location, or $10 million per restaurant group, based on total loss in revenue between 2019 and 2020. It specifically sets aside $5 billion for businesses with less than $500,000 in 2019 annual revenue.

A wide variety of businesses in the food and drink industry are eligible for the program – including food trucks, food stands, breweries and caterers. Businesses can apply for a grant even if they have already received a PPP loan.

SUBWAY TO RESUME 24 HOUR SERVICE: Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced on May 3 that the New York City Subway will resume 24 hour a day service beginning May 17. In April, MTA New York City Transit officials announced 2,009,025 trips were recorded on the subway on April 8, the first time that more than two million trips were taken on the subway since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City. The MTA will continue its unprecedented disinfection and cleaning effort. Platforms have not been included in cleanings.

The resumption of 24-hour service came just after the Governor’s announcement lifting the 12 a.m. food and beverage service curfew for outdoor dining areas.

Beginning May 6, 2020, New York City Transit closed for disinfection from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. The MTA provided free alternative transportation options to essential workers during the overnight hours that included a significant expansion of bus service across the city and for-hire vehicles as necessary.

MTA Chairman and CEO Patrick Foye said, “At this critical moment for New York’s recovery, Gov. Cuomo and the MTA recognize the time is now right to safely restore overnight service on the subways. The city’s economic revival hinges on a strong mass transit system – and a vital part of that is round-the-clock service. On February 15, Governor Cuomo announced that the MTA would partially restore overnight service on the New York City subway, pending continued positive trends in New York’s COVID indicators. Effective Monday, February 22, the MTA extended late-night subway service by two hours, moving to a 2 a.m. – 4 a.m. closure daily.

The MTA continues to work with FEMA for reimbursement on eligible COVID-related costs. Mask compliance in the system remains high, with more than 97 percent of customers wearing a mask when riding mass transit. These COVID-related measures will remain in effect for the foreseeable future. The MTA also unveiled updates to the subway map that allow riders to find the nearest vaccination site throughout the city.

VALLONE MEETS WITH DA KATZ TO HEAR BUDGET REQUESTS: On Tuesday April 27th, Council Member Paul Vallone met with Queens DA Melinda Katz to discuss budget allocations for her office in FY 2022. These budget meetings are integral to understanding the needs of the District Attorney and our community’s criminal justice infrastructure.

“We’re fighting for more funding as Queens receives the smallest allocation at $28 dollars per constituent,” said Council Member Vallone. “We need more funding to serve our community and ensure that justice is served.”

IRS BACKLOG HINDERS EXCLUDED WORKERS FROM $2B GRANTS: Standing with fellow New Yorkers, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer, State Senator Jessica Ramos, who chairs the New York State Committee on Labor, and Assembly Member Carmen De La Rosa explained that a backlog, limited capacity, and pandemic-related closures at the IRS could prevent or delay thousands of New Yorkers from accessing the roughly $2 billion State Excluded Workers Fund recently passed in the state budget.

Schumer, State Senator Ramos and Assembly Member De La Rosa said that in order to receive a payment from this fund, one way to qualify is to have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). They said that the backlog to receive an ITIN demands the IRS expand the Taxpayer Assistance Centers that help assist individuals with these applications, dedicate more staff and resources to the backlog and partner with community and religious groups, too, as part of ensuring those who are eligible successfully apply for ITINs and can get their relief funds.

The three have written the IRS Commissioner, Charles Rettig, to demand action on this issue. The following was stated in the letter:

“Earlier this month, New York State created in its fiscal year 2022 budget a $2.1 billion Excluded Workers Fund. This fund is importantly intended to serve as an income replacement program for the half a million workers in the state – many in immigrant households – who are ineligible for unemployment insurance and other pandemic-related assistance.

“Notably, one way for an individual to be eligible for relief through the Excluded Workers Fund is to have filed a tax return for 2018, 2019, or 2020 using a valid ITIN. Individuals can obtain ITINs – which are issued by the IRS – to report their earnings and pay taxes, regardless of their immigration status. These taxpayer identification numbers also allow workers to open an interest-bearing bank account, as well as to demonstrate proof of residency.

“It is our understanding that many individuals who have applied – or are in the process of applying – for ITINs for the first time have encountered significant obstacles and wait times over the past year…Workers applying for ITINs are also facing challenges in obtaining certified copies of their identification documents, and due to pandemic-related closures, there have been limited options for in-person verification.

“In addition to the Excluded Workers Fund, ITIN holders whose children have Social Security Numbers can importantly benefit from the federal Child Tax Credit (CTC)…Expediting the processing of ITIN applications will therefore allow for a greater number of New Yorkers to benefit from this critical tax credit expansion, so parents can cover daily living expenses, provide necessary support for their children, and recover from this crisis.”

NY TO LOSE A SEAT IN CONGRESS: Following the U.S. Census Bureau’s announcement that New York State will lose one congressional seat next year, having fallen 89 Census responses short of keeping all 27 seats, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo called on the New York State Attorney General to review the state’s legal options to challenge the decision, and released the following statement: “Census takers in New York faced unprecedented challenges last year in their efforts to get New Yorkers counted, from the pandemic’s effect on the mail system to the Trump Administration’s xenophobic, flagrant, and illegal efforts to hurt blue states by discouraging non-citizens and people of color from being counted. And despite a growing state population, New York State’s congressional delegation will lose a seat in the House of Representatives next year, having fallen an equally-unprecedented 89 responses short of continuity. So much of our state’s recovery, revitalization, and resilience is dependent on having our voice heard in Washington, and we won’t allow Trump and his cronies to use one of our greatest attributes, our diversity, as an impediment. I’m calling on the Attorney General to review all legal options available to ensure the voice of every New Yorker is fairly and wholly represented in the halls of Congress.”

MALONEY ON REDUCED APPORTIONMENT: On April 26, Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, the Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, issued the following statement after the Census Bureau announced new state population counts and congressional apportionment totals based on the 2020 Census:

“Today’s release of the 2020 Census apportionment count marks a key step in the Census process mandated by the Constitution and our laws. The Census faced unprecedented obstacles, including pernicious efforts by former President Trump to hijack the Census for political gain—such as illegal attempts to add a citizenship question, exclude immigrants from the count, and rush data analysis despite the risk of errors—as well as delays and operational changes caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

“A fair and accurate Census is a cornerstone of our democracy, and the Constitution grants Congress the responsibility to oversee this process. That is why I have introduced bipartisan legislation to reestablish Congress’ authority, provide adequate time for career experts to process and release the data in light of the pandemic, and ensure the 2020 Census is accurate and complete. I urge all my colleagues to support this common-sense bill.”

GILLIBRAND INTRO’S MEDICARE AT 50: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, member of the Senate Aging Committee, joined Senate colleagues to reintroduce the Medicare at 50 Act, legislation to give New Yorkers between the ages of 50 and 64 years old the option of buying into Medicare. As of July 2020, nearly 3.7 million people aged 65 and older were covered by Medicare in New York. Lowering the Medicare participation age to 50 would help 63 million uninsured and under-insured Americans — including those approaching retirement, or those facing mandatory retirement or layoffs — afford their health care costs. Additionally, the bill would strengthen the Medicare program and lower Medicare costs for older Americans.

In addition to reintroducing the Medicare at 50 Act, Senator Gillibrand and her colleagues also called on the Biden administration to expand and improve the Medicare program as part of the American Families Plan. Gillibrand is urging the administration to lower the Medicare eligibility age to 50, expand Medicare benefits to include hearing, dental, and vision care, cap out-of-pocket expenses for traditional Medicare recipients, and negotiate lower drug prices to ensure everyone can afford the medications they need.

“As New Yorkers face growing health challenges and economic hardship in the wake of the pandemic, far too many older Americans are unsure if they can afford the costs of health care coverage. New Yorkers aged 50-64 are often in transition, planning for their retirements or facing layoffs and early retirement, and we must ensure that they can afford the health care they need,” said Senator Gillibrand. ”As a member of the Aging Committee, expanding Medicare access and reducing prescription drug prices for older adults are some of my top priorities. This legislation will give millions more people across the country a valuable option for quality affordable health care and I will keep pushing for it and other provisions to strengthen Medicare in the American Families Plan.”

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 77% of the public supports expanding Medicare eligibility to people between the ages of 50 and 64.

Today, 27% of adults approaching retirement are not confident that they can afford health insurance over the next year, and more than a quarter have issues navigating health insurance options, coverage decisions and out-of-pocket costs. Many did not get the care they needed because of how much it would cost or kept a job or delayed retirement to keep their employer-sponsored health insurance.

LOWER PRESCRIPTION DRUG COSTS: On Apr. 29, Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, the Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, joined a bipartisan group of members and senators to introduce a legislative package that will enhance efforts to lower prescription drug costs by taking on anticompetitive practices employed by large pharmaceutical companies.

“I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing critical legislation that directly addresses the findings of the Oversight Committee’s sweeping investigation into the pricing practices of drug companies,” Chairwoman Maloney said. “Our investigation found that brand name drug companies have engaged in blatantly anticompetitive strategies—like product hopping and pay for delay agreements—to extend their monopoly pricing in the United States. The bills announced today will significantly reform the system and help alleviate the financial burden of life-saving prescription drugs for the American people.”

Chairwoman Maloney is an original cosponsor of the following bills:

• The Preserve Access to Affordable Generics and Biosimilars Act, introduced by Chairman Nadler (D-NY) and U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Charles Grassley (R-IA). This bill prohibits pharmaceutical companies from entering into anticompetitive pay-for-delay agreements – an arrangement that allows a company to pay the manufacturer of a generic or biosimilar competitor to not bring their product to market. The Act makes it presumptively illegal for brands to enter into such agreements.
• The Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Through Promoting Competition Act, introduced by Chairman Cicilline (D-RI) and U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Jon Cornyn (R-TX), prohibits “product hopping,” an anticompetitive practice where pharmaceutical companies seek to extend their exclusivity on an expiring patent by switching doctors and patients from the old version of the drug to a new version. This practice allows drug manufacturers to artificially extend their monopolies and prevent generic drugs from entering the market, which keeps prescription drug costs high.
• The Stop Stalling Access to Affordable Medications Act, introduced by Congressman Jeffries (D-NY) and Senators Klobuchar and Grassley, will prohibit pharmaceutical companies from overwhelming the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with meritless “citizen petitions” to block or delay generic competitors. The Act makes it presumptively unlawful for brands to submit sham petitions under certain circumstances and empowers the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to prosecute violations.

That day, Chairwoman Maloney testified before the House Committee on the Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial, and Administrative Law. During her testimony, she announced the Oversight Committee would hold a hearing on May 18, with AbbVie Inc. Chief Executive Officer Richard Gonzalez regarding its pricing practices related to its drug Humira—the highest grossing drug in the United States and the world—and related to its cancer drug Imbruvica, which is priced at over $180,000 for a year of treatment.

ALL NYS MASS VAX SITES OPEN TO WALK-INS: Governor Andrew M. Cuomo on April 27 announced that as of Thursday, April 29, all New York State mass vaccination sites will be open to eligible New Yorkers for walk-in vaccination on a first-come first-served basis for all. The walk-in appointments are reserved for first doses only with second doses to be scheduled automatically after administration of the initial shot. Additionally, all vaccine providers are encouraged to likewise allow walk-in appointments and for eligible New Yorkers.

“The more New Yorkers who get vaccinated, the faster we will defeat the COVID-19 pandemic and rebuild a new and better state and economy for everyone,” Governor Cuomo said. ”That’s why it’s critical for us to make the vaccine as accessible as possible and provide more opportunities for New Yorkers to get vaccinated. This new accommodation means any eligible adult will be able to walk into any mass vaccination site and walk out with a shot in arm, eliminating the need to make an appointment online or by phone. We’ll continue to work 24/7 to get the vaccine to communities across the state so everyone can benefit.”

This announcement adds to New York State’s ongoing efforts to make the COVID-19 vaccine more accessible. On April 23, Governor Cuomo announced five new pop-up vaccination sites that will take walk-in appointments for New York City bodega, grocery store and supermarket workers. The sites, which will be located in all five boroughs, will each receive a total of 400 doses for the duration of their existence, including doses set aside for the workers.

SUNY Chancellor Jim Malatras said, “As final exams approach and many students prepare to move home for the summer, we are thankful that New York State is expanding vaccination options for students, making it easy for them to get fully vaccinated—no matter what logistical, geographic, or scheduling hurdles stand in their way. Beginning Thursday, New Yorkers 16 and up can walk-in with no appointment at any state-run mass vaccination site—a policy shift that will go a long way in getting our students protected from this virus and restoring normalcy this fall.”

On April 21, the Governor announced that beginning Friday, April 23, 16 mass vaccination sites will accept walk-in appointments for individuals age 60 and older. There may be a wait for those opting to walk-in at some sites depending on demand. Additionally, all proof of identity and insurance information, if applicable, will be needed.

MALONEY PRAISES BIDEN’S VISION FOR FUTURE: Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY), Chair of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, released the following statement after President Biden’s Joint Address to Congress.

“Tonight’s address made clear the President’s vision for our future – a nation of hope, resiliency, equality, and equity. A nation that keeps our people safe and healthy. A nation that believes Black Lives Matter, immigrants are welcome, and that healthcare and housing are human rights.

“Looking ahead, I’m eager to continue working with President Biden as we build back better. I have long said that infrastructure is one of the smartest investments our government can make, and the American Jobs Plan is the bold, innovative package we need to modernize New York City and the country by creating good-paying, clean-energy jobs as we work to combat climate change. The American Families Plan is a once-in-a-generation holistic approach to create an economy in which everyone can succeed and no family is left behind. By investing in education and childcare and by providing tax relief to American families, we can lift children out of poverty and provide economic security to families in New York and across the nation.

“It is long past due that we pass common-sense gun control legislation to combat the gun violence epidemic, that we take meaningful steps to combat systemic racism, that we enact real, bold, and sweeping police reform, and that we create a humane and just immigration system.

“I look forward to working with President Biden to make this vision a reality.”

SENATE PASSES GIANARIS’ ENVIRONMENT BILLS: Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris announced on April 29 the Senate passed two of his bills to address public health and environmental concerns. Senator Gianaris’ bills were passed right after the world celebrated Earth Week, a 7-day long observation of fighting the climate crisis, and on the eve of President Biden’s first address to Congress where he is expected to promote efforts to replace lead pipes throughout the country.

“The clock is ticking on our planet’s health and we must take aggressive action today if we are to solve the climate crisis,” said Senator Gianaris. “I am pleased the State Senate has made protecting our environment a priority since day one, including passing the nation-leading CLCPA, and continues to fight for even better and more creative solutions to our shared existential challenge.”

Senator Gianaris passed the following bills that week:

Mandating Lead Testing in Parks: S.1256-A requires that all drinking water fixtures in state and local parks be tested for lead every three years and, if lead contamination is found, abatements need to be made within 90 days.

New York City alone has more than 3,500 drinking water fixtures in city parks, before even considering those in state and local parks throughout the state. Lead exposure can cause serious illness and injury to children, and scientists have recently stated consuming lead at any level can be a risk. President Biden has made eliminating lead pipes a major priority of his American Jobs Plan currently before Congress.

Expanding Environmental Enforcement: S.1237 would close a loophole in the Environmental Conservation Law by allowing the state to prevent environmental malfeasance by seeking more aggressive enforcement and injunctive relief.

For example, state law governing Coastal Erosion Hazard Areas acknowledges the need to regulate development and construction in those areas to prevent erosion. But, because the law does not state a specific penalty for violations, the DEC Commissioner can only levy a fine where, in some circumstances, revoking permits or requiring the violator to change or demolish a structure may make more sense.

Senator Gianaris has been an environmental champion throughout his public service. With Senator Gianaris serving as Deputy Majority Leader, the Senate enacted the CLCPA, a historic law to combat the climate crisis. The CLCPA mandates aggressive reductions in statewide greenhouse gas emissions, improves resiliency efforts, ensures local job creation through energy transition, and promotes environmental justice by controlling the regressive impacts of climate change mitigation. He has been recognized for his efforts with perfect scores from Environmental Advocates Action and the League of Conservation Voters.

Florence Koulouris, District Manager for Community Board 1 said, “Senator Gianaris has always stood up for our parks and our environment, and we are pleased the Senate is passing these bills this week. We look forward to continuing to work together for a stronger western Queens.”

MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION: NYS Senator Toby Ann Stavisky and the Senate Democratic Majority have advanced significant legislation to help protect our environment. This legislation builds upon successes in the SFY 2021-2022 budget, continuing the State’s efforts to protect and preserve New York’s natural resources. The proposals being advanced will:

• Reduce plastic pollution by preventing hotels from using small plastic bottles, such as shampoo and conditioner bottles, by replacing them with refillable bulk dispensers
• Prohibit the lease of state forests and wildlife management areas for gas production
• Expand the market for state solar production to make it easier for consumers to access renewable solar energy

NYS Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, “New York is one of the most environmentally diverse and beautiful states in the country. That is not something we can afford to take for granted. This legislative package will help ensure New Yorkers can enjoy the natural riches of their state for generations to come.

“This legislation takes proactive steps to protect our environment. These proposals build upon renewable energy initiatives to meet goals set in the Climate Leadership and Community Protections Act, which the Senate passed in the summer of 2019.”

You can find more information on the legislation passed on the New York State Senate website.

INDIAN POINT POWER PLANT CLOSES: Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced on April 29 that the aging and long-troubled Indian Point nuclear power plant on the eastern shore of the Hudson River in Westchester County would be closed, as planned, on Friday, April 30. The 2,000-megawatt nuclear power plant, located 24 miles north of New York City, had presented numerous threats to the safety of over 19 million people who live or work in the New York metropolitan area and its environmental health.

Over the years, Indian Point has suffered from safety and operational problems, including faulty baffle bolts that help secure the reactor vessels and various leaks and fires. Located in the Village of Buchanan in Westchester County, the Indian Point site includes three power reactors, two spent fuel pools, and various support facilities and infrastructure, generators, transformers, radioactive spent nuclear fuel, petroleum storage facilities, waste storage facilities, water intake and outflow facilities and structures, and piers. The densely populated surrounding region lacks viable evacuation routes in the event of a disaster, and the plant experienced more than 40 troubling safety and operational events and unit shutdowns since 2012.

New York State agencies have invested countless hours to ensure that the impact of the closure of the power plant on local communities would be mitigated to the fullest extent possible. The Public Service Commission is currently reviewing the sale of Indian Point from Entergy Corp. to a new owner, Holtec LLC. Earlier this month, Governor Cuomo announced this joint proposal with Holtec International and its subsidiaries to safely close the Indian Point nuclear power facility in the lower Hudson Valley. The agreement, negotiated by the State of New York, County of Westchester, local governments, Public Utility Law Project, Riverkeeper, Entergy (the owner of Indian Point), and Holtec, provides for a transfer of the nuclear power facility to Holtec to complete the decommissioning three times faster than estimated by Entergy, for a complete and safe decommissioning and site remediation.

Current Entergy employees are being offered jobs at other facilities, and the state continues working with affected workers to gain access to new jobs in the power and utility sector, Cuomo said.

STORING ‘STRANDED’ NUCLEAR WASTE: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand joined colleagues to introduce the Sensible, Timely Relief for America’s Nuclear Districts’ Economic Development (STRANDED) Act, a bill to provide federal assistance to communities around the country that are burdened with storing stranded nuclear waste.

The senators’ bipartisan legislation would allocate $175 million annually for five years in a federal noncompetitive grant program to compensate communities with decommissioned nuclear power plants where spent radioactive fuel remains stored, like the Town of Cortlandt, and the Village of Buchanan, which are facing financial losses due to the planned April 30 closure of the Indian Point Energy Center. It would also direct the secretary of Energy to issue an annual report to Congress on the progress and effectiveness of the federal aid allocations.

“After Indian Point shuts down, communities like the Town of Cortlandt and the Village of Buchanan will be, in effect, graveyards for nuclear waste and will suffer losses of tax revenues for critical local services and school funding. The federal government has a responsibility to make these affected surrounding communities whole with the compensation needed to build a successful, sustainable and vibrant future,” said Senator Gillibrand. ”That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues and introduce the STRANDED Act as a means to ease the burden of housing nuclear waste during the decommissioning process and beyond.”

The STRANDED Act would provide resources for the federal government to plan for the future of these sites around the country, including establishing a Stranded Nuclear Waste Task Force within the federal government and an Innovation Solutions Prize to support private-sector research. Noncompetitive grants shall be equal to $15 for each kilogram of spent nuclear fuel stored at eligible nuclear power plant sites across the country. The bill was first introduced by U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth in 2017.

U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Susan Collins (R-ME), Angus King (I-ME), Ed Markey (D-MA) and Bernie Sanders (I-VT) are cosponsors of the bipartisan STRANDED Act.

TOXIC SUBSTANCES IN BABY FOODS: New York Attorney General Letitia James launched a probe into several manufacturers of baby food regarding high levels of inorganic arsenic found in infant rice cereal products. In response to widespread concern regarding toxic metals found in baby food, Attorney General James requested information from the companies that make Gerber, Beech-Nut, Earth’s Best Organic (Hain), and HappyBABY (Nurture) brands, to examine whether the infant rice cereal products that are sold in New York contain arsenic at levels exceeding the legal maximum under the law. Attorney General James is also seeking information about the advertising and promotion of the products to assess their compliance with New York’s consumer protection laws.

Arsenic and other toxic substances in baby food pose risks for the health and development of infants and young children. Continued exposure can affect a child’s brain development, behavior, and intelligence quotient (IQ) in the long-term.

The U.S. House of Representatives Oversight and Reform Committee’s Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy recently published a report showing the presence of toxic metals — specifically inorganic arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury — in infant rice cereal products made by leading U.S. baby food companies. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now advises, through “action level guidance,” that inorganic arsenic in rice cereal for infants be limited to 100 parts per billion. This is currently the only action level FDA has in effect for toxic substances in baby food.

In her letters, the Attorney General asks the companies — which include some of the largest baby food manufacturers in the United States — to provide information on inorganic arsenic levels as well as their practices, policies, and standards regarding testing for inorganic arsenic in its infant rice cereal products and ingredients sold in the state of New York. The Attorney General has also asked the companies to provide all information related to any advertising materials pertaining to infant rice cereal products, and communications they have had with various parties concerning inorganic arsenic in infant rice cereal.

The inquiry announced that day is a continuation of Attorney General James’ efforts to ensure the safety of baby foods and to protect the health and well-being of infants and young children in New York and across the country. In February, the Attorney General urged the FDA to follow recent congressional recommendations to adopt protective federal standards for all baby food, not just rice cereal, and to require all baby food manufacturers to test their finished products for toxic metals rather than testing just individual ingredients.

ADOPTEE CITIZENSHIP ACT OF 2021: On April 29 the New York City Council passed Resolution 1229 by Council Member Peter Koo calling for the passage of the Adoptee Citizenship Act of 2021, federal legislation that would close a loophole preventing internationally adopted children from receiving full U.S. citizenship despite being legally adopted by U.S. citizens.

The Child Citizenship Act of 2020 granted automatic citizenship to adoptees under 18-year-old who were born outside the U.S. and adopted by U.S. citizens, however the act excluded those were over 18 when the law took effect. The Adoptee Citizenship Act of 2021 seeks to close this loophole to provide older adoptees the same rights and privileges.

Council Member Koo stated, “We are calling for an end to the injustice that has befallen so many international adoptees who are forced to live in the shadows because our government has refused them citizenship. These are adoptees who were legally adopted by American citizens but have been denied the same rights and security that are supposed to be afforded to all Americans. They are our family members, our friends, and our neighbors, and it is far past time that we treat them with the basic human dignity that they deserve. It is time to welcome them home as Americans.”

MINIMUM WAGE RAISE: On April 27, Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, issued the following statement in support of President Biden’s Executive Order requiring that federal contractors are paid a $15 minimum wage:

“In one of the wealthiest countries on earth, it is unconscionable that the minimum wage falls far short of a living wage. Americans believe people should be paid fairly for a hard day’s work, and that families relying on minimum wage salaries should be able to afford a roof over their heads and food on their tables.

“By signing today’s executive order requiring federal contractors to pay a minimum wage of $15 an hour and phase out the use of a tipped minimum wage, President Biden affirmed his commitment to this fundamental value. The executive order ensures taxpayer dollars will uphold the dignity of work and will provide a living wage to essential workers like cleaning, maintenance, nursing, and food service staff whose efforts are critical to serving the American people.

”Today’s executive order marks an important milestone in the Fight for Fifteen to set a $15 minimum wage for all. Policies like this are essential in promoting pay equity and economic justice, building a more prosperous America for all. I thank the President for taking this important step and look forward to partnering on other measures to ensure our federal workers have the resources and support they need to succeed.”

BILL EXPANDING DEFINITION OF RAPE PASSES: Assemblywoman Catalina Cruz announced the passage of the Rape is Rape bill (A.6319) in the Assembly. The bill expands the definition of rape to include forced oral and anal sexual contact, and removes the penetration requirement from rape statutes.

On August 18, 2011, off-duty New York City Police Officer Michael Pena stopped a New York City teacher to ask for directions to the subway in Manhattan’s Inwood neighborhood. He then removed his gun from his holster, forced her into a nearby alleyway, and sodomized her. Under New York state law, rape is defined as forcible vaginal penetration, while anal and oral penetration fall under the term “criminal sexual act.” On March 28, 2012, Pena was convicted of several charges, including criminal sexual act and predatory sexual assault, however the rape verdict resulted in a mistrial. Despite witness testimony, DNA evidence, and the survivor’s own account, a rape charge could not be sustained due to the vaginal penetration requirement in the rape statute in existing state law.

In response to the initial verdict of the Pena case, former Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas drafted legislation to amend the current law to include oral and anal penetration, as well as aggravated sexual contact, as forms of rape. While the bill has successfully passed in the Assembly in previous sessions, it has yet to pass the Senate. Earlier this year, Assemblywoman Cruz became the prime sponsor of the bill and successfully passed the bill in the Assembly. The bill currently awaits being put on the Senate Codes Committee Agenda. Once out of committee it can move on to the Senate floor for a vote.

“This bill finally brings justice to the thousands of women, men, and gender nonconforming members of our community who have had to endure the trauma of rape. For far too long, the law’s narrow definition has prevented survivors from seeking the validation and dignity they deserve. I am honored that Assemblywoman Simotas trusted me to carry this bill forward and will continue to work with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure it becomes law,” said Assemblywoman Catalina Cruz. 

“Rape is about one person dominating, controlling, torturing another. That is a crime that needs to be taken seriously, regardless of the biological details of how it happens. That’s why the Stop Abuse Campaign supports the Rape is Rape bill,” Melanie Blow, Executive Director of Stop Abuse Campaign.

WEPRIN SPEAKS OUT ABOUT RYAN WILSON: Assemblyman David Weprin issued the following statement in response to the untimely death of Ryan Wilson in a New York City correctional facility: “As Chair of the Assembly Committee on Correction, I am calling for a full investigation and reforms to ensure something like this cannot happen again in a New York City prison. Incarcerated individuals, like everyone else in our society, deserve to live in a manner that is fair and safe. What happened in this incident is to be determined, but it appears that Ryan Wilson was not afforded the full protection under the law that is made readily available to us all.”

PROTECT IN-PERSON VISITING BILL: On April 28, Assemblyman David I. Weprin, Chair of the Committee on Correction, led a virtual rally in support of the Protect In-Person Visiting bill, which passed out of committee. The bill safeguards the right of families, friends, and volunteers to visit an incarcerated person, daily and in-person. Joined by his fellow elected officials, the Osborne Association, and family members of incarcerated individuals, Assemblyman Weprin warned against using screen-based technology to substitute for face-to-face interactions.

The latest technological advances in video conferencing are often prohibitively expensive for families of incarcerated individuals. The Protect In-Person Visiting bill makes current visitation programs more accommodating and accessible.

“I am proud to be the prime sponsor of the Protect In-Person Visiting bill. This bill is about protecting families. Families have a right to see one another in-person. No child should have to miss school to see his or her parent. Visiting is a fundamental aspect of the rehabilitation process. Studies show that in-person visiting reduces recidivism rates, which is something we can all stand behind,” said Assemblyman Weprin.

“As someone who raised my children in prison visiting rooms, I know all too well the burdens that families of incarcerated people face. In-person visiting was a vital lifeline for me, my children, and their father, yet it has remained closed at places like Rikers Island for more than a year. The Protect In-Person Visiting Bill will ensure that all incarcerated people and their families have the right to in-person visits and that for-profit video conferencing equipment does not displace the right for families to be together in a visiting room,” said Osborne Association President and CEO Elizabeth Gaynes.

KIM, YOUNG, STAND WITH YAO PAN MA’S FAMILY: On April 27, 20th District City Council candidate Ellen Young joined Assemblymembers Ron Kim and Robert Rodriguez, and a gathering of other city, state, and national lawmakers, family and community advocates, and a pro-bono attorney at the site of the attack on Yao Pan Ma to call out the dramatic rise of anti-Asian racism and violence in America.

On Friday evening, Yao Pan Ma was attacked and violently assaulted on the corner of 125th Street and 3rd Avenue in Manhattan. He is now in the hospital in critical condition, and as of late Sunday (April 25) he remained in a medically induced coma. Ma’s wife, Baozhen Chen, said her husband was a talented dessert chef in China — where their two children still live — and came to the US two years ago for a better life. After losing his job in the pandemic, Ma began collecting cans for recyclables to make ends meet.

The advocates noted that the violent incident is the latest attack amid a nationwide rise of physical assaults and harassment against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Unfortunately, this form of racism and hate against Asian Americans is not new in America’s history. Since the start of the pandemic, there has been a sharp rise in racist attacks against Asian American communities across the country and here in New York.

The attendees condemned these attacks and announced that the family is being represented pro bono by the law firm of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP. Together, they have established a family trust and official GoFundMe page for the family, which has already raised over $400,000. Those present promised to continue to collectively speak out in support of the AAPI community.

Ellen Young, 20th District City Council candidate said: “How many more times do we have to wake up in the morning to the news that another member of our community has been brutally assaulted before we take decisive action to address the problem? As the first female Asian Auxiliary police officer in Queens and NYPD trained block-watcher, I have seen first-hand the ability members of law enforcement have to deter crimes and protect members of the community. It is long past time that we bring the full weight of the law to bear against the rising tide of hate — these criminals need to face the maximum sentencing possible.”

Assemblymember Kim said, “Our community is hurting. Every violent, viral attack is traumatic for all of us and changes how we go about our lives. Our elders feel like they are prey; they are scared to take public transportation, go to the grocery store, or even visit family – it has to stop. We will bring those who perpetrate these dehumanizing attacks to justice and do all that we can to support victims and their families. We are a strong, resilient community who will turn our pain into power.

“Everyone, no matter their background, is ultimately accountable for their own actions. At the same time, we can acknowledge the state of our country, which in the middle of an economic and health crisis has done and continues to do far too little for far too many people. These two points are not contradictory. Demanding justice for a crime is not a denial of the fact that most crimes do not happen in a vacuum. I don’t pretend to know what went on in the mind of the suspect as he committed this horrific attack. But I do know that the conditions which led Mr. Ma to lose his job and collect bottles just to survive are the same ones that have caused so much anger, division, and hatred in our country, and that they all stem from the same dehumanizing root.”

“The ongoing hate and violence against Asian Americans has been horrifying and this most recent heinous attack on Yao Pan Ma is unconscionable, despicable and sickening,” said U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens). “We continue to pray for his recovery and hope the perpetrator of this cowardly act is swiftly brought to justice. Last week, the Senate overwhelmingly – by a vote of 94 to 1 – passed my COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act to help combat this rise in bigotry and violence towards the Asian American community, The House is expected to vote on the bill next month and President Biden supports the measure. But let’s not forget that we all have a role in fighting this xenophobia and racism. We must call it out, prevent it and report it, and do all we can to stop Asian hate. I ask New Yorkers to keep Yao Pan Ma and his loved ones in their thoughts at this difficult time. Thank you to Assemblymen Rodriguez and Kim and all my colleagues in government for standing up to hate.”

‘INCLUDE RACETRACKS IN EXPANSION’: NYS Senator Joseph Addabbo, Chair Of Senate Racing, Gaming And Wagering Committee, said he is thankful for casino capacity expansion and wants to see horse racing tracks included in new reopening guidelines: “Governor Cuomo’s announcement on Monday (April 26) that casinos and other gaming facilities will be able to double their capacity from 25% to 50% starting on Saturday, May 15 means we are on our way back to a sense of normality and economic recovery. I applaud Governor Cuomo’s decision to follow the science and open up the state even further as our COVID-19 numbers continue to decrease and more residents are vaccinated. However, we cannot forget about our horse racing tracks in this decision. Racetracks are in open-air facilities and should absolutely be included in any kind of visitor expansion, just as with our baseball and other outdoor stadiums. I look forward to working with the Governor and his staff on discussing further reopening standards for gaming facilities and our state’s racetracks.”

BILL BANNING ANIMAL SALES PASSES: Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris and Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal announced  legislation (S.1130/A.4283) to prohibit sales of dogs, cats, and rabbits in retail pet stores was approved by both the Senate and Assembly Agriculture Committees, the first procedural hurdle to the bill becoming a law.

“With so many good animals in need of rescue, there is no need for puppy mills that abuse animals to supply pet stores. Our four-legged companions should be treated with respect, not like commodities,” said Senator Gianaris.

“New York State has a real opportunity to shut down the puppy mill-to-pet store pipeline once and for all and to provide homes to so many animals in need of fur-ever families,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal (D/WF-Manhattan). “Despite all regulations, the vast majority of animals for sale in pet stores still come from puppy mills, which are places of unimaginable cruelty. Until we pass this law to stop the sales of dogs and cats in pet stores, more well-meaning animal lovers will be duped into buying sick animals that will cost them both financially and emotionally.

Most of the animals available for sale in pet stores come from notorious dog, cat and bunny mills, which are known to be inhumane. Offspring of mill animals often have congenital issues resulting from poor breeding and can cost families thousands of dollars in veterinary care.

Pet breeders and stores are loosely regulated under the Animal Welfare Act by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Recent investigations revealed, however, that under the Trump administration, USDA inspectors have been less aggressive in enforcing these regulations. In addition, the USDA is issuing fewer serious violations that would ordinarily trigger swift follow-up by the agency.

According to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, the state agency tasked with regulating pet dealers, there are approximately 80 pet stores registered throughout the state.

APPLY FOR SAVE OUR STAGES: Amid the opening up of the Small Business Administration (SBA) Save Our Stages online application for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer confirms about 6,000 applications have already been filed in the first five hours of the program, with over 8,000 additional applications being worked on. He is urging New York stages and other venues and cultural institutions to ready their paperwork, log on to the SBA.gov website for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program and file an application for their relief.

“Knowing the SBA has already received 6,000 applications, with over 8,000 additional requests in the works, for stages and venue relief shows both the need that exists, but also the desire to bring back a variety of venues, entertainment and arts options that make New York one of the greatest states – and strongest economies,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “So, I am urging New York stages to ready their documents, log onto the SBA site and file applications for their relief. The shows will go on!”

Schumer successfully fought to include $15 billion in the end-of-year COVID relief bill in December for the Save Our Stages (SOS) program to provide national assistance for independent live venue operators, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions such as live performing arts organizations and museums that have been significantly impacted by the economic effects of the COVID crisis. The American Rescue Plan that passed into law in March included an additional $1.25 billion for the program following Schumer’s efforts to add more money to the national pot. Schumer says that New York will receive the lion’s share of the total national pot and that the legislation will provide temporary relief not only to the venues, but also to the employees, promoters, managers, producers, and entertainers that support them.

Specifically, the COVID relief package created a new Small Business Administration (SBA) grant program which independent live venue operators, promoters, producers, talent representatives, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions are eligible for. To be eligible, an entity must have experienced at least 25% lost revenue due to COVID-19. Schumer said the SBA grants are designed to provide up to 6 months of financial support that could be used to keep employees paid and New York’s prized cultural hubs open for business.

More details on the SBA program, including the application, can we found at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/shuttered-venue-operators-grant.

YANG COMMITS TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING: In an address on April 28 to New York Law School, Andrew Yang outlined his vision for charting a new, independent course in how the City pursues affordable housing development after “years of failing to meet the housing needs of New Yorkers.”

The Yang campaign stated, “The math is simple: New York needs to build more affordable housing, and proposals so far have been too timid to deal with the scope of the problem. Everyday New Yorkers have paid for decades of political infighting and inaction, and special interest groups setting the terms on housing.

“Enough is enough. As Mayor, Andrew will enact big-picture reforms and seize a historic opportunity to build housing to benefit the City as a whole, including:

• Redefining “affordable” and build 100% affordable housing. He did not say how he would define “affordable,” or whether it would be for the working poor.
• Converting unused hotels and office buildings for affordable & supportive housing.
• Producing 250,000 units of affordable housing across all five boroughs in 8 years. Yang mentioned rezoning for “denser housing, but did not say if they would be high rises.
• Working with the next Speaker to eliminate member deference that places building decisions solely with City Councilmembers.
• Implementing long-term changes to ULURP to speed up approvals.
• Rolling back mandatory parking minimums that are not needed, such as in areas well served with mass transit; and improving mass transit in those that aren’t.
• Legalizing SROs (single room occupancy) and ADUs (accessory dwelling units such as basements and converted garages).
• Transitioning hotels and commercial space into affordable housing right away.
• Rezoning SoHo to allow building affordable housing.
• Plans to spend $40 billion to improve NYCHA housing.

Yang noted that NYC has the highest proportion of homes not equipped for quarantine and quoted the city’s chief demographer who said that overcrowded apartments likely contributed to the city’s extremely high death toll.

Stressing his willingness to break from the politics as usual that have stymied affordable housing, Yang noted, “Making affordable housing widely available will require tackling some of the thorniest issues getting in the way of achieving this essential goal. And the changes will hopefully be permanent, reaping benefits even beyond my administration.

“It’s going to take a mayor who is not grown from our bureaucratic machine who has no ties to special interests to achieve this. And it’s going to take a mayor with the courage to challenge the status quo to actually see this through. This is exactly the type of independent, forward-thinking mayor I plan to be.”

LEGISLATION TO ENSURE OVERSIGHT OF BROADBAND: State Senator Sean Ryan (D-Buffalo) and Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D, WF-Queens) announced legislation that will authorize the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) to oversee broadband and VoIP service in New York. The legislation would give the PSC oversight authority on broadband infrastructure resiliency, public safety, and data collection with the goal of protecting consumers and closing the digital divide.

Senator Sean Ryan said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified our reliance on internet access in our daily lives. During the country’s recovery from the pandemic, people without reliable access to high-speed internet have suffered disproportionately. The New York Broadband Resiliency, Public Safety and Quality Act affirms what we have long known – that access to high-speed broadband service is essential to our way of life. This bill will ensure the Public Service Commission is authorized to regulate high-speed internet service in New York State as a utility and, in doing so, serve as an important step toward delivering truly universal broadband access to our state.”

“Access to high-speed, quality broadband service is a necessity and essential to New York’s economy, education, and civic life,” said Assemblywoman Nily Rozic. “New Yorkers deserve accountability and connectivity when it comes to broadband. This legislation is critical in ensuring that the PSC can regulate this infrastructure and deliver for consumers across New York.”

This legislation would ensure that state regulators are given unambiguous authority and a clear mandate to establish and enforce appropriate oversight and regulation of broadband and voice over internet protocol service in order to meet New York’s goals of universal, high-quality and affordable internet access.

The legislation follows New York’s first in the nation low income broadband program that guarantees high speed internet service for $15 per month to any family that is eligible or receiving free or reduced-price lunch, supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits, Medicaid benefits, the senior citizen or disability rent increase exemptions, or an affordability benefit from a utility.

VEHICLE POLLUTION REGULATIONS: Governor Andrew M. Cuomo released the following statement on the Biden Administration’s move to restore states’ autonomy over vehicle pollution regulations: “New York applauds President Biden and the EPA today for their leadership on climate change and acting to reverse the devastating actions taken by the previous administration. If fully reinstated, the California waiver will allow New York to reduce the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the state, benefit the health of our communities with cleaner air, and provide automakers with the certainty they need to grow our economy with cleaner technologies. New York State remains committed to working with U.S. EPA, our partners from other states as evidenced by last week’s letter signed by New York and the governors of 11 additional states to advance a Zero-Emission Transportation Future, and all stakeholders working to successfully reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in low-income communities and communities of color historically and disproportionately overburdened by this pollution.”

 ONLINE LEARNER’S PERMIT TEST: Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that the online learner permit test for Class D (passenger vehicles) and Class M (motorcycles) is now available to New Yorkers statewide. The announcement comes after the launch of an online permit application pilot program last year. This new service allows New Yorkers to begin the permit application process and take the test from the comfort of their home, saving the customer significant time in the DMV office.

“As we continue to reimagine the future in a post-pandemic world, we need to focus on modernizing and improving the way we provide essential government services to New Yorkers,” Governor Cuomo said. ”This new online permit test will make it faster and easier for New Yorkers to begin the process of applying for a driver learner permit from the comfort of their own homes, improving the overall customer experience while also reducing congestion in DMV offices.”

Taking and passing the permit test online does not allow a person to drive. After passing the online test, the applicant must still come to the DMV office to obtain their learner permit, however, their visit will be quicker and more convenient and will allow a greater number of customers to be served, Cuomo explained.

In addition to the online permit test, the DMV launched an online vehicle registration pilot program last fall. New Yorkers who live in the following counties—New York, Kings, Queens, Bronx, Richmond, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, Albany and Onondaga counties—can register their vehicles online including cars, trucks, motorcycles, vans, trailers and recreational vehicles. This eliminates the need to visit a DMV office. The DMV will be working with county clerks who operate DMV offices in the remaining 51 counties to expand this service to their customers.

The DMV also offers more than 60 other transactions online. The DMV encourages New Yorkers who have expired documents to renew online. They can quickly and easily renew a driver license, renew a registration or renew a non-driver ID on the DMV website. Customers can also obtain a driving record (abstract), change their address, plead or pay New York City traffic tickets and associated fees online, and much more.

ASIAN AMERICAN HISTORY REQUIREMENT: Amid the alarming rise in hate crimes against Asian Americans in New York and across the nation, state senators have introduced legislation S.6359 requiring New York State public elementary and high schools to provide instruction in the history and civic impact of Asian Americans. The bill seeks to raise awareness of Asian Americans by directing the Board of Regents to develop a course of study incorporating the contributions, struggles, and accomplishments of Asian-Americans throughout the history of this nation. The bill also directs the State Commissioner of Education to provide technical assistance in the development of curricula on Asian American history and civic impact and to provide suitable course materials.

The senate bill is being sponsored by NYS Senators Jeremy Cooney, Andrew Gounardes, Brian Kavanagh, John Liu, Toby Ann Stavisky and Kevin Thomas. Assembly members Ron Kim and Yuh-Line Niou will introduce the bill in the Assembly this week.

Curriculum in New York State schools is often devoid of content related to the impact of Asian Americans on the history and culture of our state and the country at large, and the discrimination they have faced in the United States. A lack of understanding and knowledge of Asian Americans has contributed to a recent increase in violence and hate crimes against people of Asian descent, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This legislation would ensure that students in New York State schools are taught about the historical contributions of Asian Americans, which will foster respect and understanding of Asian Americans, and allow Asian American students to see themselves reflected as an important part of the history and culture of our state and country, the sponsors explained.

Senator Liu said, “Asian Americans have long been caught between the pernicious perpetual foreigner syndrome and the seemingly-benign but truly destructive model minority myth. That my preceding sentence requires a long explanation to most people clearly illustrates the omission of Asian American presence in the teaching of American history and related topics in our public schools. Amid the onslaught of anti-Asian hate, assault, and killings, this legislation is necessary to remove the cloak of invisibility that Asian Americans have long endured in order to truly achieve equal opportunity, equal treatment, and equal protection. Only then can Asian-Americans experience safety and security in the long run.”

Senator Stavisky said, “The story of the importance Asian Americans as part of American history has been ignored for too long. The significant impact of the Asian American community should be taught in our schools. It is time we create a more well-rounded and inclusive curriculum that better represents everyone who helped build this country and move our society forward. I speak from the perspective of a former high school social studies teacher.”

Assembly Member Kim said, “Asian Americans are as much a part of the fabric of our country as any other community in America. This legislation will ensure that students in New York understand the history, contributions, and sacrifices of our community and help them  understand our essential place in this country. I look forward to working with Senator Liu to pass this bill in our respective chambers.”

AAPI HERITAGE MONTH: Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) released the following statement ahead of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, which began Saturday, May 1.

“Today, I join the AAPI community across NY-12 and the country in celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This year, as we celebrate and honor the rich history, heritage, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islanders, we must redouble our efforts against the violence and hate our AAPI neighbors are experiencing. Asian Americans have been attacked and harassed because of misinformation and xenophobia that wrongly blamed them for the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am encouraged by the Senate’s overwhelmingly bipartisan vote to pass the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act and will be voting for it when it comes to the House floor this month. I thank Senator Hirono and Congresswoman Meng for their leadership in Washington, DC on this legislation and commend the advocacy of the AAPI community and allies across the country for making it clear we will not abide racism and bigotry.”

JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH: Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY) released the following statement on April 30 in recognition of Jewish American Heritage Month, which began on May 1.

“This May, we celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month in defiance of increasing anti-Semitism here at home and around the globe. As we celebrate the rich tapestry of American Jews – who come from all backgrounds and all walks of life – we must stand up against this bigotry and hate that is threatening their very existence.

“To do so effectively, we need to start in our classrooms. That is why I authored H.R. 943, the Never Again Education Act, which was signed into law last year. This bill passed with overwhelmingly bipartisan support out of the House of Representatives and unanimously in the Senate, sending a clear message on the importance of Holocaust education. By providing educators with the resources they need, we can help them to teach about the Holocaust and the dangers of anti-Semitism, bigotry, and hate, and promote understanding. Children are not born with hate in their hearts and it is up to us to make sure they never learn it.”

‘CUOMO AIDES HID NURSING HOME DEATHS’: On April 28, Assemblymember Ron Kim issued the following statement in response to the New York Times’ report on Governor Cuomo’s senior aides hiding nursing home deaths data and overruling state health officials for months:

“This afternoon’s explosive New York Times story only further confirms what we’ve known for months—Andrew Cuomo put his narrow political and financial interests ahead of the health and safety of New Yorkers. Far from reforming his ways, he has continued to make clear his only consideration is self-preservation at any cost. Anyone who still stands with Andrew Cuomo in public is endorsing this kind of behavior, exposed yet again, that has been staring us in the face.

He financially benefited from hiding the deaths of fellow New Yorkers to maximize the profits of his book deal and boost his political standing. Immoral doesn’t even begin to describe his actions. Anyone still at his side at press conferences as if all of this never happened is further perpetuating and increasing the likelihood of future cycles of abuse and exploitation.”

NOTIFY BEFORE REDUCING FOR HOSPITAL FUNDS: Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Rockaway) announced that she has introduced a bill, A.6886, which would require agencies to notify elected officials before introducing a plan to reduce funding for a nursing home or hospital in their district. Sen. James Sanders is introducing this bill in the Senate.

“The recent plan to make St. John’s Episcopal Hospital (SJEH) a micro-hospital was not relayed to me, Sen. Sanders, or any community partner, even though this change, if adopted, would have dramatically changed our district and affected the lives of our constituents,” Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato said. “This cannot happen again. As elected officials, it’s important to be proactive, not reactive, to changes in our community, so that we can advocate for our constituents in the best way possible.”

This legislation was created in response to the proposed changes to SJEH. Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato and Sen. Sanders also introduced legislation earlier this month to eliminate conflicts of interest and ensure that a public employee is unable to work on projects on which they have intimate knowledge as an independent consultant.

NEXT GENERATION PARKS INVESTMENT: Andrew Yang, Democratic candidate for Mayor of New York City, announced his plan to ensure 100% park access to every New Yorker by building the next generation of great parks in NYC, transforming local schoolyards into green playgrounds, and investing in the usage of our public infrastructure, such as Open Streets and pedestrian plazas.

Andrew Yang said, “Parks aren’t a luxury, they are essential basic infrastructure that millions of New Yorkers rely on for outdoor space, recreation, and even just a walk in the fresh air. But the pandemic brought into focus the fact that not all parks are created equal, and far too many New Yorkers — 1.1 million to be exact — did not have access to a park within a 10-minute walk of their home during the pandemic. Which is why as mayor I’m going to put an end to the disinvestment and piecemeal approach to designing our parks system. We’re going to build bigger, nicer, and frankly, cooler, parks across the five boroughs and we’re going to bring those parks to Black and brown communities where park space is sorely needed.”

The plan was announced at the QueensWay, a project that has been stagnant for a decade, but under a Yang administration, will become a reality.

Yang’s parks platform would restore funding to the parks budget in full and build the next generation of Parks & Recreational Facilities, including:

Bring the first self-filtering floating swimming pool, restoring that lapsed tradition of river swimming through its innovative technology. The +POOL is estimated to cost $25 million, which was to be raised through a public-private partnership. He would also restore existing swimming public pools and open in-ground pools in communities that need them as part of a broader equity approach.

Assess the Lowline, engaging with designers to gauge the benefit it would provide to the community and how we could expand the idea to other boroughs.

Prioritize building new parks in those communities that fall short of open space and have high park needs.

Allow parks to collect concession revenue. A Yang administration will heed the calls by NY4P to amend the City Charter so NYC Parks can keep at least part, if not all, of its concession revenue. Currently, the Charter states that all city revenues are to be paid into the general fund. This means the vast majority of parks cannot retain revenue earned in park concessions, such as restaurants, golf courses and marinas, which in 2019 raised $70 million.

Expand the city’s organic waste collection program and composting sites.

Transform Public Spaces into 21st Century Open Spaces. This will include turning 100 schoolyards into playgrounds and make all Open Streets Programs permanent.

ADDABBO’S FOOD DRIVE: Senator Joseph Addabbo is hosting a Spring Food Drive to help three local food pantries: Sacred Heart food pantry in Glendale, Our Lady of Grace food pantry in Howard Beach, and the St. Camillus food pantry in Rockaway Park.

Non-perishable items that are needed include canned vegetables and fruit, cereals, crackers and snacks, pasta and rice, soups, stews and chili, cooking oil, dried herbs and spices. Drop-off locations: Addabbo’s Middle Village office located at 66-85 73rd Place, and his Howard Beach office is located at 159-53 102nd St., and Last Stop Gourmet Shop at 222 Beach 116th Street. Food will be collected for this drive until May 31 and delivered to each pantry. All COVID-19 safety protocols will be enforced when entering one of Addabbo’s district offices. For more information on the food drive, call Addabbo’s office at 718-738-1111.

SMALL ELECTRONICS RECYCLING: After a successful collection event back in March, State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. is once again partnering with the Department of Sanitation to be an electronics waste drop off site this May.

From May 3 through May 31, Addabbo’s Howard Beach and Middle Village offices will be able to collect small electronics to be properly recycled through the Department of Sanitation.

Addabbo’s Howard Beach office is located at 159-53 102nd Street, and the Middle Village office is at 66-85 73rd Place. Both offices are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can accept the small electronics during those times.

“When we first partnered with the DSNY for this e-waste drop off program in March we weren’t exactly sure what to expect,” Addabbo said. “As the word got out we were able to collect over 35 pieces of electronic waste in one month’s time.”

Addabbo requests that any electronics dropped off at his offices are small so they can fit into the DSNY-provided bin until there is enough collected for a pickup.

Accepted items:

• Small TVs monitors computers laptops;
• Printers & scanners;
• Fax machines, keyboards & mice;
• VCRs, DVRs & DVD players;
• Small servers hard drives satellite boxes;
• Tablets & e-readers; and
• Mobile phones, MP3 players, & video game consoles.

Items that WILL NOT be accepted:

• No appliances. Any household appliances, which are mostly metal or mostly plastic, can be recycled with your regular recycling.
• No loose batteries. Regular alkaline batteries can be discarded as regular trash. Consumer take-back programs exist for rechargeable batteries.
• No light bulbs or ballasts. These can be carefully discarded in the trash. Consumer take-back programs exist for fluorescent bulbs and CFLs.

“I am hopeful that we can replicate the success we had with this partnership and collect even more electronics,” Addabbo added. “Keeping our landfills clear of harmful toxins and damage-causing components starts with us and making sure that we get our old or broken electronics into the right hands to be properly recycled.”

PHEFFER AMATO HONORS SMALL BUSINESS OF THE MONTH: Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Rockaway Beach) presented owners Jianna and Jason Heuer of Avoid the Day Bookstore with her April 2021 Small Business of the Month citation on Independent Bookstore Day, Saturday April 24th. The award ceremony took place as a surprise addition to Avoid The Day’s Independent Bookstore Day programming, which included book readings from local authors throughout the day. The Assemblywoman read a chapter from Rockaway resident Dan Brown’s book, “The Sometimes Why: Short Stories, Monologues, and Words to That Effect,” along with four other local readers.

“Avoid the Day Bookstore exemplifies what a true community partner and civic minded small business can mean to a community,” Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato said. “Through their hard work and dedication to their business – they have firmly ensconced themselves as an important part of the community and are an invaluable addition to the culture and arts space in Rockaway. I was proud to present them with the April 2021 Small Business of the Month award and look forward to their continued success!”

“We want to thank Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato for presenting us with the April 2021 Small Business of the Month Award,” Jianna and Jason Heuer, owners of Avoid the Day Bookstore said. “We are so happy to still be here after this pandemic – it had been our dream to open up a bookstore in Rockaway Beach, and we’re only getting started!”

Jianna and Jason Heuer opened the Avoid the Day Bookstore in February 2020, 7 weeks before the start of NY PAUSE. They are the 17th business to receive the Small Business of the Month award since its launch in 2018.

HOLDEN ENDORSED BY MILLER: Council Member Robert F. Holden has been endorsed by Council Member I. Daneek Miller, Co-Chair of the City Council Black, Latino and Asian Caucus, for re-election to the NYC Council. He joins more than 38 labor unions and elected officials, and counting, who have endorsed Council Member Holden.

“I am proud to endorse Bob Holden for another term in the City Council,” said Council Member Miller (D-St. Albans), Chair of the City Council Black, Latino and Asian Caucus. “Serving as an elected official is important work and Bob has fought hard for his constituents and fellow New Yorkers. Now more than ever, we need the ‘adults in the room’ at City Hall and with Bob Holden, we have representation that will diligently serve the needs and values of homeowning communities like ours.”

“Over the last four years, I have had the honor and privilege of working with Council Member I. Daneek Miller in the New York City Council,” said Council Member (D-Middle Village). “Council Member Miller represents his constituents with distinction and governs with a common-sense approach. His wealth of experience and friendship helped me to be a better public servant and I am forever grateful to work alongside him in serving the city that we both love.”

Council Member Holden’s list of endorsements can be found on his campaign website: holdenforcitycouncil.com

HEVESI ENDORSES WILEY FOR MAYOR: New York City Mayoral Candidate Maya Wiley’s campaign received another boost with the endorsement of Assembly Member Andrew Hevesi. Hevesi is chair of the Committee on Children and Families and represents the Forest Hills, Rego Park, Ridgewood, Richmond Hill, Middle Village, Glendale, and Kew Gardens neighborhoods of Queens. Since his election in 2005, Hevesi has fought to reduce homelessness, fight against human trafficking and support survivors of domestic violence. Hevesi’s endorsement comes after Wiley received the backing of EMILY’s List, Amplify Her and the 504 Democratic Club.

Assembly Member Hevesi said: “I am proud to endorse Maya Wiley for Mayor of New York City. Our families are facing economic uncertainty and loss while millions of our children have endured higher rates of childhood trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Maya is a leader who understands the full scope of the issues, and who has the vision and ability to help us build back stronger. She will do this through her Universal Care model, by providing kids with resources to build resilience and move past their trauma, while offering vital financial support to our care workforce and parents. Maya is the leader we need, and the leader our children need, to make sure a generation of NYC’s kids are not doomed or defined by the trauma they just endured.”

Maya Wiley said: “I am honored to have the support of Assembly Member Hevesi, a strong advocate for his community in Albany. I look forward to working together to reduce homelessness and ensure our caregivers are given what they deserve. When I am in City Hall, I will proudly fight alongside Assembly Member Hevesi to make sure Queens residents are heard.”

Maya has been endorsed by 1199SEIU, Congresswomen Nydia Velázquez, and Yvette Clarke, EMILY’s list, State Senator Michael Gianaris, Former Assembly Member and current DNC Vice Chair Michael Blake, Assembly Members Deborah Glick, Khaleel Anderson, Latoya Joyner, and Council Members Helen Rosenthal and Steve Levin, and former City Council Member Jimmy Vacca. She has also received the endorsement of New York Progressive Action Network (NYPAN) and Democracy For America.

Since entering the race, Wiley has introduced several innovative policy proposals, including her New Deal New York, a piece of her economic vision that will create 100,000 jobs; a plan to save small business; a Universal Community Care plan to provide $5,000 grants for the 100,000 most in-need New York City; her Community First Climate Plan; an education plan that hires 1,000 teachers; a policy to prevent maternal mortality; a proposal to combat gun violence; and a plan to fight evictions.

LEE WINS ENDORSEMENT OF LIU: State Senator John Liu endorsed Linda Lee, candidate for City Council in District 23. If Lee wins the Democratic Primary, she is heavily favored to win the November general election since Democratic voters overwhelmingly outnumber Republican voters in District 23. Lee would then become the first Korean American City Council Member in New York City history. She would also become the first woman and first person of color elected to City Council from District 23.

At the press conference in Oakland Gardens near Lee’s home, Senator Liu said, “Linda Lee is a supermom who has for many years run a major non-profit social service agency while raising her kids in NYC public schools. For many years I’ve encouraged Linda to run for public office and I’m excited that she has finally resolved to do so. With her long-time community advocacy, educational credentials, and executive management experience, Linda will be a most thoughtful and effective member of the City Council and I proudly endorse her as my #1 candidate in this election.”

“Having State Senator John Liu’s support means so much to me,” said Lee. “As the first AAPI New York City Council Member and Comptroller, John set an example to Asian Americans everywhere that we can run for political office and we can win. John has always been a friend to me, I’m honored to have his support, and I hope to become his colleague in government, bringing results back to Eastern Queens.”

John Ahn said, “Linda Lee has been a great leader in the Korean-American Community and HAS done a great job as a President of KCS serving the community in the past years. I am sure she will continue to do good work for the community when she gets elected. Please vote on June 22, 2021 in the Primary Election.”

—With contributions by Annette Hanze Alberts

This column was originated by John A. Toscano