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MENG CALLS FOR HALTING PLANS TO GUT SOCIAL SECURITY; URGES SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICES INCLUDING THOSE IN QUEENS NOT TO BE CLOSED

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Grace Meng (6th District of New York)

Congresswoman’s district includes Social Security facilities in Rego Park and Flushing

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) today called for the halting of any plan that seeks to gut Social Security including the closing of Social Security offices such as those in her congressional district in Queens.

In a letter she and other Members of Congress sent to the Acting Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA), the Congresswoman expressed concern over possible Social Security field office and hearing office closures across the country and mass firings of employees that would impact the agency’s ability to serve the public and deliver Social Security payments.

Meng’s district includes two Social Security field offices; one in Rego Park located at 63-44 Austin Street, and one in Flushing at 138-50 Barclay Avenue.

“Shuttering field offices and gutting SSA staffing has nothing to do with ‘governmental efficiency,’” the letter to Acting SSA Commissioner Leland Dudek said. “As you know, SSA already operates with a customer service budget of under one percent of benefit payments. Staffing is at a 50-year low, despite serving a record number of beneficiaries. Years of understaffing and lack of resources have led to a customer service crisis at SSA. Closing the very field and hearing offices that beneficiaries rely on and gutting staff would only deepen the crisis, chaos, and confusion.” 

“We stand with the 70 million Americans who rely on Social Security to make ends meet, and the civil servants who work tirelessly to ensure beneficiaries receive their payments in full and on time every month. We have a clear message: devastating SSA’s ability to deliver benefits to the public is a de facto benefit cut. We urge you to halt any plans for laying off SSA employees and shuttering field or hearing offices,” the letter added. 

Last week, reports came out that the Trump Administration had imminent plans to close Social Security field offices and significantly reduce the SSA workforce.  

On Friday, 24 SSA senior staff resigned as Acting Commissioner Dudek announced plans to consolidate ten regional offices down to four and cut 7,000 workers.

In addition, Elon Musk just days ago called Social Security a Ponzi scheme.

The full text of the letter can be viewed here and below. The correspondence was led by Rep. John Larson (D-CT) and signed by 152 House Democrats. 

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Dear Acting Commissioner Dudek, 

We write with grave concern regarding recent reports of planned Social Security Administration (SSA) field office and hearing office closures, and the agency’s announcement of “significant workforce reductions.” If implemented, these actions will devastate SSA’s ability to serve the public and deliver Social Security payments, inflicting back-door benefit cuts on the American people. 

Social Security helps approximately 70 million beneficiaries — including seniors, people with disabilities, children, and their families — put food on the table, pay the rent, heat their homes, cover medical bills, and more. It is impossible to overstate the importance of Social Security to the American people, or the dire consequences of making it harder for beneficiaries to access their earned benefits. 

Shuttering field offices and gutting SSA staffing has nothing to do with “governmental efficiency.” As you know, SSA already operates with a customer service budget of under one percent of benefit payments. Staffing is at a 50-year low, despite serving a record number of beneficiaries. Years of understaffing and lack of resources have led to a customer service crisis at SSA. Closing the very field and hearing offices that beneficiaries rely on and gutting staff would only deepen the crisis, chaos, and confusion. If the Trump Administration is serious about efficiency in delivering benefits to the American people, it would ensure that SSA has the staff and offices needed to serve the public. 

We stand with the 70 million Americans who rely on Social Security to make ends meet, and the civil servants who work tirelessly to ensure beneficiaries receive their payments in full and on time every month. We have a clear message: devastating SSA’s ability to deliver benefits to the public is a de facto benefit cut. We urge you to halt any plans for laying off SSA employees and shuttering field or hearing offices. 

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MENG TO BRING FIRED ARMY VETERAN FROM QUEENS TO PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS TO CONGRESS ON TUESDAY

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Grace Meng (6th District of New York)

Congresswoman’s constituent, Luke Graziani, who worked at a local VA hospital, will be her guest to stand against mass terminations of federal employees

QUEENS, NY – In an effort to stand against the ongoing mass firings of federal employees, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) announced today that Luke Graziani from Woodside, Queens, a veteran terminated from his job at a New York City veterans hospital, will be her guest for President Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night (March 4th).

Graziani, 45, is a 20-year U.S. Army veteran who was employed at the James J. Peters VA Medical Center in the Bronx. He worked as a public affairs officer at the hospital for nearly a year and was suddenly laid off two weeks ago. Prior to working at the medical center, he served two tours in Iraq and two tours in Afghanistan.

Graziani is among the tens of thousands of federal workers that the new administration has unjustly terminated across numerous federal agencies over the past few weeks. Currently, veterans make up 30 percent of the federal workforce and some 6,000 have already been fired.

“Federal employees work tirelessly to provide crucial services that people depend on all across the country including here in Queens and throughout New York, and the way that so many are being kicked to the curb is disgraceful,” said Congresswoman Meng. “This includes our brave and heroic veterans who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. I stand with Luke and all veterans and federal workers who have been impacted. Luke attending the President’s speech as my guest will send a strong and powerful message that it is unacceptable to turn our backs on these dedicated employees, and how doing so will inflict harm on New York and the nation. I look forward to welcoming Luke to Washington as we continue fighting these cruel and unconscionable cuts.”

“After 20 years of military service, including four combat tours, being terminated from my job at the VA by a thoughtless and heartless email was devastating,” said Graziani. “These terminations affect real people and real families of dedicated public servants. I am grateful to Congresswoman Meng for giving me the opportunity to represent thousands of federal workers who’ve been discarded while providing vital services Americans depend on. I hope my presence in our nation’s capital will inspire other federal employees to continue standing for what is right.”

Graziani is the father of four children and resides with them and his wife at their Woodside home in Meng’s congressional district.

 In Congress, Meng has worked to assist veterans by sponsoring and supporting legislation, securing funding and spearheading local initiatives.         

The President’s address on Tuesday is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. inside the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

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MENG STATEMENT ON FIRING OF NOAA EMPLOYEES

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Grace Meng (6th District of New York)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS), released the following statement on the firing of weather forecasters and other employees at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA):

“Once again, the reckless Trump Administration is inflicting tremendous harm upon the American people. Today, hundreds of employees at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), including weather forecasters at the National Weather Service (NWS), were given termination notices for no good reason. This is unconscionable. These are dedicated, hardworking Americans whose efforts help save lives and property from the devastating impacts of natural disasters across the country. This action will only endanger American lives going forward.”

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Statement from Rep. Nydia Velázquez on the Passing of Rep. Raúl Grijalva

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nydia M Velázquez (D-NY)

WASHINGTON- Today, Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement on the passing of Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva (D-AZ):
 
“I am devastated by the passing of my dear friend and longtime colleague, Congressman Raúl Grijalva. Raúl fought a courageous battle against cancer, and his loss leaves a void in Congress and the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
 
“For over two decades, I had the honor of serving alongside Raúl in the House. He led the charge on so many fights for justice, for the environment, and for the most vulnerable among us. As Chair of the Natural Resources Committee, Raúl was a fearless champion in the battle against climate change. He always centered the voices of frontline communities and demanded accountability from corporate polluters. He worked tirelessly to secure historic investments in climate action and environmental justice, and the positive impact of his work will endure for generations.
 
“Raúl was deeply committed to the people of Puerto Rico. His leadership was essential in passing the Puerto Rico Status Act, working tirelessly to bring together voices from all sides to find common ground on the island’s future. With a steady hand and a deep respect for self-determination, he helped push the conversation forward when it mattered most.

“Above all, Raúl was my friend. His kindness and humor made him a joy to know. He believed in treating all people with dignity and respect. His legacy will continue to inspire us to fight for a better, fairer, and more just world.
 
“My heart is with Raúl’s family, his staff, the people of Arizona, and all who mourn his passing. May he rest in peace.”
 

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Velázquez Slams Trump’s Tariffs as Direct Attack on U.S. Families and Small Businesses

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nydia M Velázquez (D-NY)

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement after the implementation of President Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico:
 
“Trump’s tariffs are nothing more than a tax hike on hardworking families and small businesses. Instead of fighting inflation, this policy will drive up costs for the American people while hurting the economy.  
 
“Today’s broad, senseless tariffs will increase costs by an estimated $800 in 2025 alone. The burden will fall the heaviest on lower-income families, who already spend a greater share of their income on goods more susceptible to tariffs.
 
“And the damage won’t stop there. Trump’s tariffs will move the dream of homeownership further away for millions of Americans. With 70% of the United States’ lumber and gypsum imports coming from Canada and Mexico, construction costs will rise, further squeezing potential homeowners. Small businesses, already struggling with supply chain challenges, will be forced to either absorb rising costs or pass them on to customers.
 
“Democrats have been fighting to protect families and small businesses from these destructive policies. We believe that strengthening domestic manufacturing and building resilient supply chains cannot come at the cost of punishing consumers.
 
“Unlike Trump’s misguided tariffs, which act as an indirect tax on American households, Democrats have delivered real solutions. The Inflation Reduction Act has lowered energy and healthcare costs, while the CHIPS and Science Act is revitalizing American manufacturing and reducing reliance on volatile foreign markets. Unlike Trump’s tariff-driven tax hikes, Democrats are committed to economic policies that put working families and small businesses first.”
 

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Velázquez Announces Guest for Presidential Joint Session Address

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nydia M Velázquez (D-NY)

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) announced that Denise Gutierrez Robles will be her guest to tonight’s Joint Address to Congress by President Trump.
 
Denise Gutierrez Robles, originally from El Salvador and a longtime New York resident, is a passionate advocate for transgender and immigrant communities. She serves as the Program Manager for the Transgender Family Program at Community Healthcare Network (CHN) in Brooklyn, where she has spent the past five years working to expand access to inclusive healthcare, legal services, mental health support, and other essential resources for transgender individuals. CHN provides critical healthcare services to many patients who rely on Medicaid, making its work especially vital as the Trump administration threatens to cut the program.
 
“At a time when the Trump administration is attacking Medicaid and targeting the transgender community, voices like Denise’s are more important than ever,” said Congresswoman Velázquez. “Her tireless work ensures that transgender individuals of all backgrounds have access to the care and support they deserve. I’m honored to have her as my guest so we can send a clear message: this administration must keep their hands off Medicaid and respect the rights of trans Americans.”
 
Denise’s advocacy began in 2014 with LGBTQ+ organizations in Long Island, focusing on empowerment and expanding opportunities for the transgender community. Her passion for inclusion, education, and equality continues to drive her work today.
 
Congresswoman Velázquez has been raising the alarm about the Trump administration’s plans to cut Medicaid and has been pushing back against its attacks on the transgender community. She has long fought to protect healthcare access for all and continues to advocate for policies that ensure transgender individuals can live freely and with dignity.
 

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Velázquez Introduces Resolution to Designate Community Arts Education Day

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nydia M Velázquez (D-NY)

WASHINGTON— Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) introduced a resolution to designate February 28, 2025, as Community Arts Education Day to highlight the vital role of the arts in education and community development.
 
The resolution raises awareness of how community arts education in forms such as dance, music, theater, and literary arts enhances learning, inspires activism, and strengthens communities. It also underscores the need for continued federal support for the arts, particularly as proposed cuts by the Trump administration threaten these essential programs.
 
“Community arts education is a powerful tool for self-expression and cultural awareness,” said Congresswoman Velázquez. “For many, it provides a space to understand and navigate the world around them. This resolution affirms the importance of these programs in fostering inclusivity and equipping individuals with the skills they need to succeed in school, work, and beyond.”
 
This resolution is cosponsored by Rep. Jonathan Jackson (D-IL).
 
The National Guild for Community Arts Education is proud to collaborate with Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez’s office in reintroducing this critical resolution. Investing in community arts education is an investment in our future, ensuring that creativity, culture, and community-driven learning remain essential pillars of our society. At a time when the arts are increasingly marginalized, this resolution serves as a call to action to sustain and strengthen arts education for generations to come. We hope it garners the support needed to uplift the profession and empower the next wave of artists, educators, and cultural leaders,” says Dr. Quanice G. Floyd, Executive Director, National Guild for Community Arts Education. 
 
For a full copy of the resolution, click here.
 

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Smith Statement on WOTUS Reversal

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)

Washington, DC — Today, Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Vice Chair of the Congressional Western Caucus, released the following statement on the joint memorandum issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers (USACE) on implementation of the Waters of the United States rule, known as WOTUS. Under the memorandum, EPA and USACE will work collaboratively to solicit stakeholder input toward a new WOTUS rule designed to provide needed clarity and reduce permitting barriers while ensuring EPA fulfills its mandate to protect navigable American waters.

“This is a great step toward putting WOTUS abuse to bed. The EPA has threatened property rights and livelihoods of rural Americans with bureaucratic overreach for far too long. The Biden administration’s failure to appropriately comply with the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling or seek public input has only perpetuated uncertainty. EPA regulations must never put undue burdens on American farmers, ranchers, and small businesses and should properly reflect congressional intent in the Clean Water Act.”

BACKGROUND:
Read more about Smith’s efforts to stop WOTUS implementation here. 

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Smith: The War on Affordable Energy is Over

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)

Washington, DC — Today Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE), released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a historic set of actions to unleash American energy including reconsideration of the tailpipe emissions rule which effectively mandated consumer adoption of electric vehicles and the so-called “Clean Power Plan 2.0” on power plant production. 

“I appreciate President Trump and Administrator Zeldin’s bold and decisive action to rollback barriers to American energy abundance. The Biden administration’s EV mandate was unworkable for Americans living in rural areas like those in the Third District and promised to make us more dependent on supply chains controlled by the Chinese Communist Party. Those hurt the most by these misguided, job-killing policies are typically the ones who can afford it least. Options, not mandates, bring the best outcomes.

“The Biden administration’s crushing power plant rules not only undermined grid reliability, they threatened our economic growth. Nearly half of Nebraska’s electricity comes from coal, including the power supplying our EV charging stations. Innovation is fueled by abundance. The Biden-Harris war on affordable energy is over.”

BACKGROUND:

Rep. Smith has repeatedly spoken out against EPA policies harmful to energy consumers and producers. In February 2024, he sent a letter with a bicameral group of lawmakers urging President Biden to reject the EPA’s unworkable tailpipe rule.

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Smith, Fellow Ag Trade Caucus Co-Chairs Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Supporting Producer Interests in Trade Negotiations

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)

Washington, DC — Today, in recognition of National Agriculture Trade Day, Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE) joined fellow Agricultural Trade Caucus co-chairs Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Jim Costa (D-CA), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) to announce introduction of a resolution expressing a renewed commitment to supporting market access, robust trade enforcement, elimination of trade barriers, trade promotion programs, comprehensive agreements, and the pursuit of science-based standards in U.S. trade engagements.

“Over the last four years, American farmers and ranchers lost ground in international markets, moving from an agriculture trade surplus to a record trade deficit,” said Rep. Smith. “The U.S. must drive an aggressive agenda to level the playing field and ensure our hardworking producers, who have the capacity to meet demand, can sell their products globally. Through negotiation of USMCA and other advancements on trade in his first term, President Trump showed an ability to overcome trade barriers by working in consultation with Congress to increase market access. This resolution calls for similar efforts to ensure American agriculture has a place at the table as we craft trade policy.”

“Agriculture is the backbone of America and an essential part of our economy,” said Rep. Johnson. “South Dakota is no stranger to the agriculture way of life and the importance of ag trade. I’m proud to partner with the Ag Trade Caucus to highlight the value of ag trade for our country and our farming and ranching families and communities.”

“This bipartisan resolution emphasizes the vital role of ag trade, particularly in the San Joaquin Valley, where agriculture is at the heart of our economy. We must ensure that farmers have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed, while also building a sustainable food supply chain that will continue to feed future generations,” said Rep. Costa. 

“Producers in California’s 19th Congressional District and across the country are facing growing trade barriers, declining exports, and the loss of hard-earned global market share,” said Rep. Panetta. “That’s why, as co-chair of the Ag Trade Caucus, my colleagues and I are introducing this bipartisan resolution to push Congress and the administration to urgently pursue policies that open markets and enforce trade commitments.  By working together, we can protect our producers, support rural communities, and ensure the United States remains a global leader in feeding the world.”

The resolution is cosponsored by Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE), Jim Costa (D-CA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Don Bacon (R-NE), Josh Harder (D-CA), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Max Miller (R-OH), Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Greg Landsman (D-OH), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Stanford Bishop (D-GA), Jeff Hurd (R-CO), and Bennie Thompson (D-MS).

Read the full resolution here.

The Resolution is supported by: American Farm Bureau Federation, National Milk Producers Federation, U.S. Dairy Export Council, American Soybean Association, Corn Refiners Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation, Meat Institute, National Pork Producers Council, Meat Import Council of America, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, Fresh Produce Association of the Americas, Sweetener Users Association, USA Rice, American Feed Industry Association, Leather & Hide Council of America, Independent Bakers Association, Food Export-Midwest & Food Export-Northeast, North American Export Grain Association, California League of Food Producers

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