Velázquez E-Update 

In this issue:
A Note from Congresswoman Velázquez
Opposing the Department of Government Efficiency
Know Your Rights
Protecting Vital Services in New York City
Legislative Activity

Dear Neighbor,

As we begin the 119th Congress, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude. It is an incredible honor to serve as your representative in Washington, and I do not take this responsibility lightly.

This year, I’ve heard loud and clear from New Yorkers about the issues that matter most. From the rising cost of housing to the need for safer streets, protecting reproductive rights, and addressing climate change, I’ve fought hard to deliver results.

As we look ahead, I’m committed to continuing the fight for a better future for all New Yorkers.

Further details on my recent congressional efforts can be found below. I encourage you to reach out to my office with any questions, concerns, or to share your perspectives, as your input is invaluable.

Thank you again for the opportunity to serve you.

Sincerely,

Nydia M. Velázquez

Protecting Sensitive Taxpayer Information

Over the past few weeks, our office has heard from many constituents concerned about Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Please know that Congresswoman Velázquez shares your concerns and is actively pushing back against any unconstitutional actions.

She recently joined a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent demanding answers about DOGE’s access to the Treasury payments system. As the Ranking Member of the House Small Business Committee, she also wrote to the Small Business Administration (SBA) seeking clarity on DOGE’s access to SBA systems. Additionally, she is an original cosponsor of The Taxpayer Data Protection Act, which aims to safeguard private citizens’ data from interference. She also attended events at the Treasury Department and the Department of Education to speak out about the importance of protecting these vital agencies.

Congresswoman Velázquez understands how many New Yorkers depend on vital federal programs for their well-being, and she is committed to protecting these programs from any unconstitutional overreach.

Know Your Rights

In the wake of increased U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids across the country, Congresswoman Velázquez has been working to ensure that constituents understand their constitutional rights. In late January, Congresswoman Velázquez hosted immigration strategy workshops in Bushwick and Long Island City.

The events brought together local service providers, advocates, and policymakers for an urgent discussion on the impact of recent Trump administrations immigration policies. The conversation focused on how local leaders and non-profits can support immigrant communities in the face of the administration’s aggressive deportation tactics and expanded interior enforcement efforts.

Congresswoman Velázquez Hosts an Immigration Strategy Session at CUNY School of Law in Long Island City

The Congresswoman also hosted a virtual "Know Your Rights" training with immigration experts, providing hundreds of constituents across the district with information about their legal protections and guidance on navigating interactions with immigration enforcement.

Protecting Vital Services in New York City

The Trump administration’s pause on federal grants and loans, Congresswoman Velázquez heard from organizations across Brooklyn and Queens that were having their funding impacted. The funding pause created chaos for many organizations, including the districts many Community Health Centers.

Community health centers are a vital part of New York’s healthcare safety net, providing primary care, behavioral health services, and dental and vision care to 2.3 million patients. Following the pause, Congresswoman Velázquez gathered local elected officials, community leaders, and health care workers at Community Healthcare Network (CHN) – Williamsburg to highlight the devastating impact a Republican funding freeze would have on the health and well-being of New Yorkers.

She understands how critical these programs are for working families, seniors, and vulnerable communities, and she will not stop fighting to protect them from harmful cuts that threaten access to essential care and services.

Congresswoman Velázquez Speaks at a Press Conference Highlighting the Impact of the Federal Funding Pause on Community Health Centers

Legislative Activity

On the first day of the 119th Congress, Congresswoman Velázquez introduced the Landlord Accountability Act of 2025, legislation designed to strengthen protections for tenants, including those in the Section 8 program, by promoting accountability and fair housing practices.

Later in the month, Congresswoman Velázquez introduced a federal version of New York’s Mel’s Law. This bipartisan bill would require colleges and universities receiving federal funding to establish a policy for awarding posthumous degrees to students who pass away before completing their required coursework.