Yesterday was the DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, which offers a safe, convenient, and responsible way to dispose of unused medications while raising awareness about the risks of prescription drug abuse. Andrew joined Community Ambulance Company, Inc. in Sayville for their Drug Take Back Day collection event where over 253 pounds of unused and expired prescription drugs were collected and 20 Narcan kits were distributed to equip the community with tools to combat opioid overdoses. Andrew was proud to support this important event and commended everyone who participated, recognizing their efforts in making Long Island a safer place. For more information and for future Take Back dates and locations visit takebackday.dea.gov.

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U.S. Reps. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) and Laurel Lee (R-FL), members of the U.S. House Homeland Security Committee, requested a briefing by Nov. 1 on Salt Typhoon and other cyber-threat actors backed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) that pose risks to America’s national security. The lawmakers are 'extremely concerned' about what Salt Typhoon’s recent hack against major internet service providers, such as AT&T, Verizon, and Lumen Technologies, may imply about the state of cyber resiliency in the United States, according to an Oct. 18 letter sent to Jen Easterly, director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), and Christopher Wray, director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). 'If reporting about Salt Typhoon’s level of network access is accurate, the PRC could influence communications by rerouting internet traffic, or gain valuable information by accessing systems for lawful wiretapping requests,' wrote the committee members. 'In other words, this intrusion would significantly jeopardize Americans’ right to privacy and broader U.S. national security interests.' Joining Rep. Garbarino and Rep. Lee — chairman and vice chair, respectively, of the U.S. House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection — in signing the letter was full committee chairman U.S. Rep. Mark Green (R-TN). They noted that the committee has taken the threat of PRC-backed cyber actors seriously and last month unanimously passed H.R. 9769, the Strengthening Cyber Resilience Against State-Sponsored Threats Act.

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Andrew joined the Town of Islip's 44th Annual Apple Festival at Islip Grange in Sayville, meeting with constituents and connecting with members of the community. The event featured local vendors, rides, a family fun zone, pony rides, a petting zoo, and live music, drawing families from across the area. Andrew always appreciates the opportunity to engage with NY-02 residents and was glad to support this long-standing community event.

Andrew recently participated in the 4th Annual Trunk or Treat at True North Community Church in Bohemia. Families enjoyed goody bags, a costume parade, decorated trunks, treats, and community resources. Attendees also contributed non-perishable food items to support the True North Community Church Food Pantry, providing much-needed help to neighbors in need. Andrew was grateful for the opportunity to connect with families and celebrate the fall season with the community. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event so special.

This week a special event at Tangier Smith Elementary School, coordinated with Eastern Suffolk BOCES Superintendent Dr. Jasmin Varela, celebrated the achievements of a remarkable educator selected through the Milken Educator Awards, often called the "Oscars of Teaching." This prestigious national program awards $25,000 to exceptional K-12 educators, promoting innovation and excellence in the classroom. As part of the celebration, Andrew proudly provided a Congressional Certificate of Recognition, underscoring his support for initiatives that inspire educators and students while strengthening the future of education on Long Island and beyond.

This week, Tyler Alvarez, son of 9/11 hero Luis Alvarez, was inducted into the Oceanside Fire Department. Tyler, who has Autism, has achieved his lifelong dream of becoming a firefighter—a remarkable accomplishment that reflects his perseverance and passion. Andrew was honored to provide a Congressional Certificate of Recognition to mark this milestone. This is a truly inspiring achievement.

A Holtsville resident reached out to Andrew's office for assistance following the tragic death of her daughter. Her husband, who was abroad, required an emergency nonimmigrant visa to be with his family during this difficult time. Andrew's casework team worked with the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Consulate General to secure the visa, ensuring the family could reunite during their time of mourning.

Andrew knows how frustrating dealing with bureaucracy can be. That is why he has an entire team dedicated to helping constituents get what they need from the government. If you need help dealing with a federal agency, contact our office and our team will get to work on your case.