New York City Insider: Reps. Espaillat, Gallego Lead Push to Protect Immigrants Seeking COVID-19 Care.

 

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release March 30, 2022

Reps. Espaillat, Gallego Lead Push to Protect Immigrants Seeking COVID-19 Care. Members Seek to Expand Areas Protected from ICE to Include COVID-19 Medical Centers.   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and Ruben Gallego (AZ-07) led a letter urging Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to expand the current guidelines for Protected Areas Policy to include COVID-19 medical centers and to protect undocumented immigrants from deportation.  “Immigrant communities are at the foundation of what keeps this nation moving forward. They are our essential workers, healthcare workers, small business owners, and farmworkers – countless of whom put their lives on the line as our nation came to a standstill as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. They deserve to live free of fear when seeking the care they require and deserve,” said Rep. Espaillat.  “The COVID-19 virus does not discriminate. To better protect our communities we must allow everyone, regardless of immigration status, to safely access the healthcare they deserve. Providing immigrant communities the peace of mind that they can get tested, treated, and vaccinated against Covid-19 without being targeted by ICE is a small step we can take to better protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our neighbors from COVID-19 and put an end to this pandemic,” said Rep. Gallego.  “Currently, the new DHS guidelines include ‘medical treatment and healthcare facilities’ as protected areas. We believe it is of great importance that this includes the specific addition of Covid-19 Medical Centers,” the members wrote. “This must encompass any location or facility where SARS-CoV-2 testing, treatment, or vaccines are administered. During the most severe public health crisis of our generation, we must do everything in our power to help people receive the testing and treatment they need to remain healthy and contain the spread of the virus, rather than deter them from doing so.  At this crucial time in our nation’s history, we must place humanity and the common good above all else. Adding COVID-19 testing, treatment, and vaccination centers to the Protected Areas policy is an opportunity to encourage all residents of the United States to seek testing, vaccinations, and care, regardless of their immigration status. This will serve as a desperately needed improvement to the humanity of immigration practices in our country and is far more in the interest of our communities than cruel immigration enforcement that counteracts both science and our national values,” the letter concludes. In addition to Reps. Espaillat and Gallego, this letter was signed by Representatives Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Dina Titus (NV-01), Albio Sires (NJ-08), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-14), Grace Meng (NY-06), and James P. McGovern (MA-02). You can read the full letter below: Dear Secretary Mayorkas: We are writing to extend our sincere thanks for your implementation of Protected Areas Policy as a portion of the updated Department of Homeland Security (DHS) “Guidelines for Enforcement Actions in or Near Protected Areas” for Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Protections for these locations will ensure a level of justice and decency in immigration enforcement that has been sorely missing in the past. While this is a welcomed step, we ask that you expand the policy guidelines to explicitly include COVID-19 medical centers. This inclusion would address an ongoing area of concern for our communities as we continue to navigate the global health pandemic. Since 2017, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus has made protecting sensitive locations (referred to in the new guidelines as protected areas) a priority. The legislative iteration of this measure, the Protecting Sensitive Locations Act, has been sponsored by Congressman Espaillat and continues to receive broad support from Members of Congress. We appreciate your decision to advance provisions established in the Protecting Sensitive Locations Act while creating new DHS policy and look forward to working with you to broaden its scope to include COVID-19 medical centers. Currently, the new DHS guidelines include “medical treatment and healthcare facilities” as protected areas. We believe it is of great importance that this includes the specific addition of Covid-19 Medical Centers. This must encompass any location or facility where SARS-CoV-2 testing, treatment, or vaccines are administered. During the most severe public health crisis of our generation, we must do everything in our power to help people receive the testing and treatment they need to remain healthy and contain the spread of the virus, rather than deter them from doing so. This is particularly critical because undocumented immigrants face a high risk of exposure to the Coronavirus because of their significant representation in the essential workforce. According to statistics released by the University of California- Berkeley,3 undocumented individuals account for approximately half of the farm workers in this country- a job that is impossible to delay or move to a remote setting in order to protect its workers from the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Additionally, undocumented individuals are commonly employed in industries such as childcare, food service, healthcare, and delivery, all of which place them at a heightened risk as well. As these essential workers put their safety on the line to help our country each day, we must work to protect them. At this crucial time in our nation’s history, we must place humanity and the common good above all else. Adding COVID-19 testing, treatment, and vaccination centers to the Protected Areas policy is an opportunity to encourage all residents of the United States to seek testing, vaccinations, and care, regardless of their immigration status. This will serve as a desperately needed improvement to the humanity of immigration practices in our country and is far more in the interest of our communities than cruel immigration enforcement that counteracts both science and our national values. Thank you for consideration of our request, we look forward to working together to improve our great nation’s immigration system.  Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his third term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities. He is also a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Second Vice Chair and is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where he serves as Deputy Whip. Representative Espaillat also currently serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.

New York City Insider: Congressman Adriano Espaillat to Host Virtual Career Fair.

 

Hi Assignment Desk,

My next all-virtual career fair series is coming up next month – and I want to make sure you have time to register and be part of it!

The 2022 Virtual Career Fair will take place on both Wednesday and Thursday, April 20th-21st, from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM on both days. From healthcare, education, retail, government, and more, this career fair will have it all for both applicants and companies looking to adopt new talent – and this year, I’m proud to announce that this time I’ve dedicated a segment that caters to young professionals!

Here’s some important information you need to know:

• If you are an employer interested in participating in the Spring 2022 Virtual Career Fair, please fill out this registration form.
• If you are a job seeker wishing to sign-up for the career fair, you can do so by clicking here.
• Organizations are advised to RSVP by no later than April 14th, and job-seekers are strongly encouraged to prepare prior to the career fair with important materials such as their resumes to maximize their experience.

Be sure to bookmark the career fair tab on my website to stay up to date on everything related to this upcoming career fair – and be sure to sign up for my newsletter while you’re at it!

If you’re looking for a job, this is the opportunity for you – and I’m determined to help make it happen.

Sincerely,

 

 

 

Adriano Espaillat
Member of Congress

New York City Insider: Mayor Adams is Right. And Wrong.

 

Keep NYC Congestion Tax Free 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: STATEMENT BY KEEP NYC CONGESTION TAX FREE ON  MAYOR ADAMS PLEA FOR OFFICE RETURN.

“Mayor Eric Adams is right to panic about office workers failing to return to Manhattan. The revenue loss could be catastrophic for City and State budgets moving forward. 

“That’s why putting up a Manhattan paywall in the form of a $9 - $35 congestion pricing tax is the worst possible plan for New York. The State and City must apply common sense to safeguard the City’s future — and that means stopping congestion pricing in its tracks.” -- Joshua Bienstock, spokesman, Keep NYC Congestion Tax Free.

Keep NYC Congestion Tax Free, a diverse coalition of civic, business, and labor organizations and businesses throughout New York City, argues that implementing a tax on vehicles traveling south of 6oth Street in Manhattan will, among other things, permanently damage efforts to revitalize Manhattan's core business districts.  

New York City Insider: Espaillat, Meng Announce Community Project Funding For FY2023 To Help Local Communities.

 

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release March 29, 2022

Espaillat, Meng Announce Community Project Funding For FY2023 To Help Local Communities.  Lawmakers Able To Direct Federal Funds To Specific Projects In Their Congressional Districts.   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representatives Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and Grace Meng (NY-06), the two New York members of the powerful House Appropriations Committee—which funds federal agencies and programs—announced today a new process for state and local governments and non-profits to receive direct federal funding through the Appropriations process.  They have also created guidance to help New York nonprofits and government entities navigate the Community Project Funding process in Congress. Community Project Funding recognizes that Members of Congress know their districts best, and know the needs of their communities.  Unlike the former congressionally-directed spending, also known as “earmarks,” the revamped Community Project Funding process will prioritize accountability, transparency, and strong community support. New reforms require rigorous vetting, limits 15 community project requests from each Member of Congress, public disclosure of potential recipients on the Congressmember’s website, and certification that no Congressmember’s family can benefit from the project.  To assist potential New York recipients in learning more about the process, Espaillat and Meng created a concise fact sheet. Eligible entities that can apply for funding include state or local governmental entities and non-profit organizations.  All for-profit groups and entities are ineligible.  Eligible projects are broken down by each spending bill. Those interested in submitting a Community Project Funding request must consult with their specific congressional representative. “We are incredibly excited to announce that New York state and local governments, and non-profit organizations, are now able to request Community Project Funding in upcoming annual federal spending bills,” said Reps. Espaillat and Meng.  “This process will ensure that Members of Congress can work with their communities to identify projects which need funding, especially as we look to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.  After all, Members of Congress know their districts best.  We have prepared a short overview of how to identify those projects and what steps may be involved.” A copy of the guidance can be found here. Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his third term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities. He is also a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Second Vice Chair and is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where he serves as Deputy Whip. Representative Espaillat also currently serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.

New York City Insider: Representative Adriano Espaillat Announces Transportation Grants for District Infrastructure Projects.

 

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release March 28, 2022

Representative Adriano Espaillat Announces Transportation Grants for District Infrastructure Projects. Deadline to Apply for the Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant Opportunity (MPDG) is May 23, 2022.   WASHING, DC -- Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) announces the opening of grant opportunities through the U.S. Department of Transportation for the combined Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Department’s Multimodal project discretionary grants that includes the Mega, INFRA, and Rural grant programs.  The application deadline for MPDG grant opportunity is May 23, 2022, and applications must be submitted through Grants.gov. For additional information or if interested in receiving additional assistance, please visit the Department’s Grants homepage: www.transportation.gov/grants and search for MPDG grants.  SUMMARY: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law established two new programs and reauthorized one preexisting program which are being solicited together using this NOFO. * Mega: $1 billion of FY 2022 funding for the National Infrastructure Project Assistance grants program, known as the Mega Grants program; * INFRA: Approximately $1.55 billion in FY 2022 funding to be made available for the Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highways Projects grants program, known as INFRA;  *  Rural: $300 million in FY 2022 funding for the Rural Surface Transportation Grant program, known as Rural. DOT is combining these three programs into single NOFO to provide a more efficient application process for project sponsors. While they remain separate programs for the purposes of award, the programs share many common characteristics, including a larger project size, multimodal eligibility, and many shared statutory project requirements. Because of these shared characteristics, it is possible for many projects to be eligible and considered for multiple programs using a single application. *  The INFRA program: At least 15% of the funds are reserved for small projects *  The new Mega program: Focused on large multimodal transportation projects, with 50% of the funding being awarded to projects greater than $500 million in total project cost, and the remaining 50% of the funding being awarded to projects between $100 million and $500 million in total project costs. The Mega program will help large multimodal projects with gaps in their financial plans. *  The new Rural program: Reserved for surface transportation projects in rural areas, with a minimum of 90% of all projects having a minimum $25 million Rural grant award. The Rural program will focus on rural needs, such as improving highway safety and expanding access to rural transit service.  Set asides for projects on the Appalachian Development Highway System and projects located in states with above average rural lane departure fatality rates. While the MPDG grant opportunity consists of three separate programs, DOT will evaluate common applications for the programs using common merit criteria and considerations to provide a more streamlined and efficient application process for project sponsors. The common set of criteria include: safety; state of good repair; economic impacts, freight movement, and job creation; climate change, resiliency, and the environment; equity, multimodal options, and quality of life; and innovation. Additional considerations include cost effectiveness; demonstrated project readiness, which includes technical assessment, financial completeness, and environmental review and permitting risk; and geographic diversity among recipients, including a balance between the needs of urban and rural projects.  Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his third term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities. He is also a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Second Vice Chair and is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where he serves as Deputy Whip. Representative Espaillat also currently serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/. Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov

New York City Insider: Schumer, Espaillat Statement on President Biden’s FY23 Discretionary Budget Proposal.

 

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release March 28, 2022

Schumer, Espaillat Statement on President Biden’s FY23 Discretionary Budget Proposal.  Touts Inclusion of Funding Critical for Phase II of the Second Avenue Subway.   WASHINGTON, DC –  Today, U.S. Senate Majority Leaders Charles E. Schumer and Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) issued the following joint statement in response to the release of President Biden’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2023, which includes $4.5  billion for the Capital Investment Grant program, including $400 million for the construction of Phase II of the Second Avenue Subway extension:  “As New York City continues to rebuild – while working towards economic recovery and addressing the inequalities faced by communities of color that were exacerbated during the pandemic – investing in transit equity improvements is a must,” said the Members. “The Second Avenue Subway extension will improve our local economy and small business development, while addressing these environmental and social issues.  “We are delighted to see President Biden take this monumental step today and commit to getting New York City the funding we need to get this transformational project off the ground. We have long championed expansion of the Second Avenue Subway and the topic as remained at the forefront of our discussions with the President, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, as well as Governor Kathy Hochul, to ensure that this project – and those that call our neighborhoods home – are not left behind. Expanding these services and reliable transportation will support the livelihood of over 100,000 East Harlem residents who currently experience barriers to job opportunities, educational advancement, and access to hospitals and medical care because of the lack of public transportation. When complete, the Second Avenue Subway extension will reshape the fabric of our neighborhoods and all of New York City – connecting Harlem to the rest of the world. We look forward to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) approving this project to the next and final phase, which we expect to be announced later this year.” The proposed budget reflects the Biden Administration's vision to help families in communities around the nation recover and prosper. In 2016, Second Avenue Subway Phase II was selected to participate in the federal cost-share Capital Investment Grants Program. House Democrats increased funding authority for this program as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which is a crucial piece of President Biden and Congressional Democrats’ Build Back Better Agenda to repair and expand America's infrastructure, create good-paying jobs, tackle the climate crisis, and grow economic opportunity for American businesses, workers, and families across the country.   Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his third term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities. He is also a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Second Vice Chair and is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where he serves as Deputy Whip. Representative Espaillat also currently serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.

New York City Insider: Espaillat Launches 2022 Congressional Art Competition for District High Schools.

 

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release March 24, 2022

Representative Adriano Espaillat Announces Launch of Congressional Art Competition for District High Schools. Call for Submissions: 2022 Art Competition Now Open!    NEW YORK, N.Y. –  The 2022 Congressional Art Competition is now accepting entries from high school students from New York's 13th congressional district for the opportunity to display their winning artwork in the United States Capitol and the district offices of Rep. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) for up to one year. Artwork may be emailed to Art.NY13@mail.house.gov. The deadline to submit entries from NY-13 is Friday, April 22, 2022. Watch a virtual gallery presentation highlighting the winners and honorable mentions of the 2021 Congressional Art Competition.  Original artwork may include digital submissions of paintings, drawings, collages, and photography and must be submitted via email along with the student release form. For questions about entries and this year's competition for New York's 13th congressional district, please contact Debby Nabavian at Debby.Nabavian@mail.house.gov, Laurie Tobias-Cohen at Laurie.Tobias-Cohen@mail.house.gov, or Marc Carlo at Marc.Carlo@mail.house.gov.  Visit online for a full list of the 2022 Rules and Regulations.  Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his third term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities. He is also a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Second Vice Chair and is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where he serves as Deputy Whip. Representative Espaillat also currently serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.

New York City Insider: Espaillat Urges NYCHA to Halt the PACT Conversion of Manhattanville Houses.

 

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release March 21, 2022

Espaillat Asks NYCHA to Halt the PACT Conversion of Manhattanville Houses.   NEW YORK, NY -- Today, following reports to his office from impacted constituents, Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) penned a letter to Gregory Russ, Chair and Chief Executive Officer of the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) requesting that the PACT conversion of Manhattanville Houses be halted following insufficient community input.  “It has been brought to my attention that the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) leadership have proposed that Manhattanville Houses undergo the Permanent Affordability Commitment Together (PACT) conversion process,” Rep. Espaillat wrote. “While I understand the urgent necessity to address the capital repair backlog and deteriorating housing stock, reports to my office suggest that resident engagement has been inadequate.  “Since expressing these concerns, [my] residents feel they have not received adequate explanation,” Espaillat continued. Rep. Espaillat is demanding that the PACT conversion of the Manhattanville Houses be halted until the below questions are answered in writing: 1.  What are the protections put in place to protect PACT residents against displacement/eviction?  2.  What is NYCHA’s contingency plan if the chosen developer goes bankrupt? How will NYCHA ensure that residents will not bear the brunt of the bankruptcy? 3.  Under the current Administration, the Section 8 program is funded, but what is NYCHA’s contingency plan if another Administration stops funding the Section 8 program? 4.  What existing conditions and physical needs were considered for the federally required Public Needs Assessment (PNA)? 5.  What mechanisms are employed to ensure that public meetings about the Manhattanville PACT- conversion are inclusive of the community needs including time, language, and platform (in person, virtual, etc.)? How do NYCHA liaisons avail themselves to residents to ensure all questions are answered? How are resident’s feedback documented and incorporated into decisions about the Manhatanville PACT conversion? 6.  How does NYCHA plan to ensure the developers are incorporating the physical needs renovations that are required such as lead and mold remediation, roof enhancements, HVAC upgrades, plumbing needs, and boiler upgrades?   “The PACT conversion forces residents to undergo significant change, and understandably, residents demand assurance that these changes will ultimately benefit and protect them… I request that you halt the PACT conversion of the Manhattanville Houses until these questions receive a written response,” Espaillat concluded. You can read the letter in its entirety HERE.     Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his third term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities. He is also a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Second Vice Chair and is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where he serves as Deputy Whip. Representative Espaillat also currently serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.

New York City Insider: Representative Adriano Espaillat Urges New Yorkers To File Taxes Immediately to Receive Historic Tax Cuts.

 

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release March 21, 2022

Representative Adriano Espaillat Urges New Yorkers To File Taxes Immediately and Receive Historic Tax Cuts Passed Through American Rescue Plan. Representative Adriano Espaillat has Delivered $5.0 billion in Tax Cuts for 2,010,000 Hardworking Families Through the Expanded Child Tax Credit. Watch Virtual Q&A Session with the IRS   NEW YORK, N.Y. –  Representative Espaillat (NY-13) urges New Yorkers to file their taxes as soon as possible and receive the historic tax cuts created by the American Rescue Plan, which have slashed child poverty to record lows. In 2021, Espaillat delivered approximately $185.5 million in tax cuts for more than 123,000 children in New York’s thirteenth congressional district through the expanded Child Tax Credit, according to estimates from the Joint Economic Committee. Families in the district will see more tax cuts when they file their taxes this year.  Eligible families can ensure they receive the expanded Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit by filing their tax returns. Start the process by reviewing your tax filing options at ChildTaxCredit.gov, GetYourRefund.org, or by calling Rep. Espaillat’s district office at (212) 663-3900.  “When Democrats passed the historic American Rescue Plan in March of last year, the health and well-being of our working families was at the forefront of our efforts to ensure direct relief to help get New Yorkers back on their feet and reopen schools and businesses safely," said Rep. Espaillat. "By filing their taxes by April 18th, hardworking New Yorkers  can make sure they receive reliable and consistent resources to support their families through this public health crisis. For anyone needing assistance with the IRS or any other federal agency, please don't hesitate to contact my office and a member of my staff will be able to assist.” The American Rescue Plan, signed by President Biden in March 2021, represents one of the largest middle class tax cuts in American history. The law expanded the amount of the Child Tax Credit and provided families with advance monthly payments totaling up to one-half of the credit, cutting child poverty by 40%. The law also expanded the Earned Income Tax Credit, increasing the amount working people with no qualifying children between 19 and 65 are eligible for from $543 to up to $1,502. To claim these funds, New Yorkers must file a 2021 tax return, so the IRS has the information needed to calculate and issue their full payments. Here are some key facts about the Child Tax Credit: ●      It is not taxable, including the advance monthly payments received last year. ●      Families can get their Child Tax Credit by filing a tax return this year, including those who received part of their Child Tax Credit as advance monthly payments last year. ●      Receiving it will have no impact on anyone’s eligibility for, or lower the amount of, other federal benefits. ●      If you qualified for advance monthly Child Tax Credit payments but did not receive them, you will receive the full credit amount when you file your tax returns. ●      Anyone, including grandparents, who are legal guardians may be eligible for the Child Tax Credit. More information about the Child Tax Credit and tax filing can be found HERE.   Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his third term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities. He is also a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Second Vice Chair and is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where he serves as Deputy Whip. Representative Espaillat also currently serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/

New York City Insider: Three Weeks Amid Russia's Attack: Espaillat Stands in Support of Ukraine.

 

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release March 17, 2022

Three Weeks Amid Russia's Attack: Espaillat Stands in Support of Ukraine. Watch Espaillat Floor Remarks   WASHINGTON, DC -- Today, Representatives Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) spoke on the U.S. House floor once again in support of Ukrainians fleeing violence as a result of Putin's war. During his remarks, Espaillat urged support of his war crimes resolution highlighting the ongoing atrocities and growing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.  The following are remarks by Rep. Espaillat as prepared for delivery: "It’s clear that Vladimir Putin has committed war crimes by violating international law, including the Geneva Conventions, in his violent and bloody war of conquest on Ukraine. "Yesterday, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy painted a haunting picture of the pain being inflicted on Ukraine and war crimes being waged on Ukrainians trying to keep themselves and their families safe. "I along with Congressman David Cicilline have introduced a War Crimes Resolution – H.Res.964 – calling on the global community to hold Putin and the Russian government accountable for their war crimes. "Russian forces have used explosive weapons with wide range near schools and populated areas – hitting them with missiles and heavy artillery. It is a violation of the Geneva Conventions to target civilians and cultural sites. On March 1st, a Russian airstrike hit Freedom Square in Kharkiv, killing several civilians, injuring dozens of innocent people. On March 1st, a Russian missile hit the location of the Babyn Yar Holocaust Memorial site, a place where thousands of Jewish people were killed between 1941 and 1943. On March 3rd, 47 civilians were killed when Russia hit two schools, apartment buildings, and injuring countless more. "It is a violation of the Geneva Conventions to attack medical units. On March 9th, Russian forces bombed a maternity and children’s hospital in the city of Mariupol. The world watched a pregnant woman be carried – lifeless – from the hospital wreckage on a stretcher. Both she and her child passed away. The World Health Organization has also confirmed several attacks on health care centers in Ukraine, causing countless deaths and injuries. "It is a violation of the Geneva Conventions to target nuclear facilities. On March 3rd, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accused Russian forces of 'nuclear terror' as Russian tanks shot at the nuclear blocks at a nuclear power station. More than 3 million refugees have fled Ukraine. Each day in Ukraine more than 70,000 children have become refugees. That’s 55 children fleeing the country every minute. There have been nearly 2,000 civilian casualties in the country, and over 1,000 people injured. And yesterday, the International Court of Justice overwhelmingly found that Russia must immediately suspend its unlawful military invasion of Ukraine. "It is clear that Vladimir Putin and the Russian Government have committed war crimes. They invaded a sovereign nation and are attacking the very core of liberty and democracy. We must hold them accountable and do all we can to support brave Ukrainians fighting for their freedom." Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his third term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities. He is also a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Second Vice Chair and is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where he serves as Deputy Whip. Representative Espaillat also currently serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.

New York City Insider: Espaillat, Diaz-Balart Urge Secretary Blinken to Focus Assistance and Diplomatic Support on Haiti and Dominican Republic

 

PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release March 18, 2022

Espaillat, Diaz-Balart Urge Secretary Blinken to Focus Assistance and Diplomatic Support on Haiti and Dominican Republic.   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13) and Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL-25) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken regarding the ongoing crisis in Haiti. In the letter, the Members highlighted the urgent need for the United States to work with the international community to stabilize Haiti and alleviate the impact that numerous crises have had on its neighbor, the Dominican Republic.  The full text of the letter is below.  Dear Secretary Blinken,   As members of the House Appropriations Committee, we write to request that you intensify U.S. diplomatic attention to address the ongoing crisis in Haiti and alleviate its negative impact on the Dominican Republic.   On February 7th, the term of the assassinated president Jovenel Moïse expired, which many fear will create a power vacuum and an hostile political environment in Haiti. In our view, preventing the collapse of Haitian institutions requires coordinated, international and diplomatic support. This support must be committed to ending gang violence, strengthening civil society, rebuilding democratic institutions, and recovering from the devastation caused by natural disasters, political upheaval, and debilitating poverty.    We are profoundly concerned by the mounting challenges facing Haiti in the wake of several crises, and by the impact on its neighbor the Dominican Republic. Haiti’s institutions are under severe stress, and its people are suffering widespread civil unrest, daily crime and gang violence, kidnappings, inadequate health care, and shortages of necessities such as food, medicines, and fuel. The shortages of essential goods that Haiti is experiencing would be worse were it not for the efforts of Dominican authorities to keep the border secure, while remaining open to legitimate commerce. We have been informed that both Haitian and Dominican authorities have asked for help in protecting their shared border by accommodating the orderly transportation of goods, cross-border commerce and travel, and the interdiction of trafficking of contraband and persons, which will enhance the internal security of both countries.   For these reasons, we respectfully ask, within all applicable rules and regulations, that you work closely with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and other relevant agencies in assessing the current capabilities of Haiti’s border patrol, customs, and security agencies. We also welcome your recommendations on how to enhance U.S. training, and technical and material support to our Haitian and Dominican counterparts. Furthermore, we request an assessment of how we can help both countries improve monitoring and enforcement capabilities on land and maritime borders.   Additionally, we would note that the House-passed State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2022 specifically designates funds to help both countries address burdens on the healthcare system. We will continue to work on ways to address these issues in the Fiscal Year 2023 bill.   It is crucial that we work with others in the international community to ensure that Haiti emerges from the many crises that it has endured, and that we assist in stabilizing this important region in our hemisphere. We believe that focusing on securing international support for Haiti, helping to stabilize the border, and continuing to assist both Haiti and the Dominican Republic in continuing to provide their life-saving humanitarian services, are all critical parts of resolving these current challenges.   We thank you for your attention to this matter of utmost importance. Sincerely, Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his third term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities. He is also a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Second Vice Chair and is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where he serves as Deputy Whip. Representative Espaillat also currently serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.