Email from Rep. Garbarino Weekly Newsletter from the Office of Congressman Andrew Garbarino If you were forwarded this email, click here to subscribe An update from the office of Congressman Andrew Garbarino SPOTLIGHT Andrew Welcomes America's VetDogs To Capitol Hill This week, Andrew welcomed America’s VetDogs to Capitol Hill. The service dog programs of America’s VetDogs are designed to provide enhanced mobility and renewed independence to veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders with disabilities, enabling them to live with pride and self-reliance. America’s VetDogs specializes in placing highly skilled service and guide dogs with individuals facing physical injuries, PTSD, hearing and vision loss, and seizures. Andrew is committed to standing with our veterans and is proud to work with organizations like America’s VetDogs to ensure our heroes have the resources and support they need when they return home. ANDREW IN THE NEWS Garbarino-backed bill boosts storm protection on Long Island's south shore " Congress passed the final version of an infrastructure bill that will mitigate storm damage and coastal flooding on Fire Island and other communities along the south shore of Long Island. The bill streamlines funding for speedy repair of structures that protect against storm damage. "This is a big win for Long Island," Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-02) said about the bill. 'These measures will safeguard our homes, infrastructure, and natural resources for years to come.' Garbarino pushed lawmakers to include flood protections for Oyster Bay, Islip, Babylon and Brookhaven. During testimony before the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure earlier this year, he underscored the important role Fire Island plays as a barrier island protecting a large swath of Long Island's south shore. 'The longer we leave these problems unchecked, the greater probability that Long Island will require increased support for infrastructure resiliency projects,' Garbarino said. 'If we can address this problem quickly, we can avoid addressing even greater damage in the future. " Click here to read the full article. WHAT'S NEW IN NY-02 National Wreaths Across America Day Yesterday, communities across the nation came together for National Wreaths Across America Day, a heartfelt tradition to honor the sacrifices of our veterans. At Long Island National Cemetery, volunteers laid wreaths on the graves of those who served, ensuring their legacy is remembered during this holiday season. Team Garbarino was proud to lay a wreath on the resting place of WW II veteran Charles Kleiberg who served in the U.S. Navy. This event was a powerful reminder of the gratitude we owe to our nation’s heroes and their families. Thank you to everyone who participated or supported Wreaths Across America in their mission to honor, remember, and teach. Together, we ensured their sacrifices are never forgotten. CASEWORK HIGHLIGHT: Resolving Mail Fraud Case A constituent contacted Andrew’s office for assistance after facing eBay fraud and unhelpful responses from the local post office. They had paid for USPS shipping on an expensive item, only to find the package was delivered to the wrong address. Andrew’s team worked with USPS to secure a proof-of-non-delivery letter, allowing the constituent to request a refund from eBay. The case was also referred to the Postal Inspection Service due to suspected fraud by the sender. 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. KEEPING UP WITH CONGRESS House Passes Andrew's Bill To Strengthen Cyber Workforce This week, the House passed the bipartisan DHS Cybersecurity Internship Program Act, co-led by Andrew. The bill codifies a paid internship program at the Department of Homeland Security, ensuring its long-term role in addressing the urgent need for skilled cybersecurity professionals. Andrew highlighted the importance of the legislation, stating, “By codifying this program, we are equipping the next generation of cybersecurity professionals with hands-on experience and mentorship opportunities, while building a robust talent pipeline to confront evolving threats.” This program strengthens national security by preparing students with practical skills and mentorship in critical areas like incident response and digital forensics. Andrew remains committed to advancing bipartisan solutions that protect America’s critical infrastructure and invest in our nation’s future workforce. Andrew Delivers For Long Island in Water Resources Development Act This week, the House passed the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which includes critical provisions secured by Andrew for Long Island’s South Shore. These measures aim to strengthen flood risk management, storm damage prevention, and coastal restoration in towns across New York’s 2nd Congressional District, including Oyster Bay, Babylon, Islip, and Brookhaven. Andrew highlighted the importance of these provisions in addressing the increasing frequency and severity of storms, ensuring the safety of homes, infrastructure, and natural resources in coastal communities. The WRDA represents a significant step forward in delivering long-term solutions for Long Island. Learn more here. Andrew to Help Lead Italian-American Congressional Delegation This week, Andrew announced that he will serve as Co-Vice Chair of the Italian-American Congressional Delegation during the 119th Congress. In a statement, he said, "I am honored to take on the role of Co-Vice Chair and to be in a position to advance Italian-American priorities in Congress. I take immense pride in my heritage and am committed to preserving the legacy of those who came before us. I look forward to working closely with the incoming Co-Chairs and the rest of the Italian-American Delegation to make a meaningful difference for our community.” Learn more here. Andrew Votes to Support Servicemembers and Strengthen National Defense This week, Andrew voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed the House with bipartisan support. The bill provides a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers, funding for military families, and investments in recruitment programs like JROTC. The legislation strengthens national security by advancing defense technologies, countering foreign threats, and funding missile defense programs with allies like Israel. It also includes $6 million for surface and shallow water mine countermeasure development, supporting innovation and benefiting Long Island manufacturers. The NDAA authorizes $895.2 billion for national defense, ensuring servicemembers have the resources they need and keeping America’s military strong. Thanks for reading! Do you know someone who might like to receive these updates? Forward this email to your friends and families and tell them to click below to subscribe! Click Here To Subscribe Rep. Andrew R. Garbarino Congressman representing New York's 2nd Congressional District Washington, D.C. 2344 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-7896 Patchogue 31 Oak Street, Suite 20 Patchogue, NY 11772 Phone: (631) 541-4225 Rep. Garbarino | 2344 Rayburn House Office Building | Washington, DC 20515 US Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice