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 Discusses Long Island Priorities Andrew joined the Long Island Association, our congressional delegation, and hundreds of Long Islanders—participating both in person and via livestream— this week for a meaningful discussion on some of the most pressing issues facing our region. From restoring the SALT deduction to strengthening our economy and protecting access to health care, Andrew remains committed to putting Long Islanders first and appreciated the opportunity to answer questions and engage directly on the priorities that matter most to our community. ANDREW IN THE NEWS $1B overhaul of U.S. Merchant Marine Academy's Kings Point campus proposed " The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy's Kings Point campus could receive a decade-long, $1 billion overhaul to modernize its academic facilities, utilities and physical training center under a bipartisan bill introduced Thursday and cosponsored by the entire House of Representatives delegation from Long Island. USMMA, which opened in 1943, has seen its physical condition deteriorate in recent decades with virtually every building on its 82-acre campus now exceeding its life expectancy and requiring replacement or major renovation, according to a 2022 report by the school's Maritime Security Infrastructure Council, which developed the billion-dollar improvement plan. The legislation, introduced by Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-Bayport), authorizes $1.02 billion to be spent on USMMA improvements between fiscal years 2026 and 2035, starting with $54 million for design and planning in the initial year, followed by annual construction funding of $107.3 million in each additional year. 'We ask these students to serve after they graduate. They deserve a campus where they don't have to worry about whether they're going [to] be able to do their homework because they don't have internet or whether they're going to have a cold shower in the morning,' Garbarino, who serves on USMMA's Board of Visitors, said in an interview. 'They deserve a little dignity on the campus. It's something we owe them.' " Click here to read the full article. WHAT'S NEW IN NY-02 Celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Lindenhurst This weekend, Andrew joined neighbors, local leaders, and first responders at the annual Lindenhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Stepping off from Fireman’s Park, the parade made its way through the heart of the Lindenhurst Downtown Business District, bringing the community together in celebration of Irish heritage and local pride. Andrew was proud to take part in this cherished tradition and enjoyed honoring the people and spirit that make Lindenhurst such an important part of our district. Supporting Pet Adoption with Babylon Animal Shelter Andrew stopped by the Babylon Animal Shelter’s pet adoption event to meet with staff, volunteers, and some of the adoptable pets looking for their forever homes. Events like this highlight the important work local shelters do every day to care for animals and connect them with loving families. Andrew appreciated the chance to thank the team at the shelter for their dedication. Social Security Administration Offers Clarity on Local Office Closures The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently clarified that no local field offices have been permanently closed or scheduled for permanent closure since January 1, 2025. This update comes in response to recent media reports and aims to reassure the public about continued access to in-person services. While some offices may close temporarily due to weather, facility repairs, or other issues, SSA emphasized that these locations reopen once the issues are resolved. The agency also noted that it works closely with local congressional delegations before any permanent closure is made and reassigns staff as needed to maintain in-person service availability. “SSA is committed to providing service where people need help, and our local field offices are no exception,” said Acting Commissioner Lee Dudek. Andrew is committed to ensuring his constituents have the resources and information they need. If you have concerns about your Social Security benefits, please don’t hesitate to contact Andrew’s office. CASEWORK HIGHLIGHT: Securing Survivor Benefit Pay for Veteran A local veteran reached out to Andrew’s office after facing ongoing difficulties with a Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) issue, including bounced emails and unclear guidance from the Army’s Human Resources Command. The veteran had questions about next steps and wasn’t sure whether to respond directly or wait for help. Andrew’s casework team stepped in to coordinate with the appropriate federal agencies and ensure the matter was addressed properly. As a result of their efforts, the veteran received back pay from the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). 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 Andrew Leads Push for Full-Scale Campus Modernization at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Andrew introduced a bipartisan bill to authorize funding for a full-scale campus modernization of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) right here on Long Island. As a member of the USMMA Board of Visitors, Andrew has seen firsthand the urgent need to upgrade the Academy’s facilities. This legislation aims to ensure that Midshipmen have access to the modern infrastructure and resources they need to support our nation’s maritime strength, keep supply chains moving, and enhance national security. Andrew thanks Long Island Reps. Laura Gillen, Nick LaLota, and Tom Suozzi, as well as Rep. Jen Kiggans for joining him in this bipartisan effort to invest in the future of USMMA and the critical role it plays in our national readiness. Andrew Meets with Major General Shields to Support Our National Guard Andrew met with Major General Raymond Shields to discuss National Guard operations in New York and the vital role Guard members play in keeping our communities safe and supporting national security. The conversation focused on ongoing efforts to ensure the Guard has the resources and support it needs to carry out its mission. Andrew is grateful for the service of all Guard members and appreciates General Shields’ strong leadership and commitment to our state and nation. Andrew Stands with New York Postal Workers Andrew met with New York letter carriers from the NYRLCA in Washington, D.C. to discuss the essential public services the Postal Service provides to every American—no matter where they live. Andrew is proud to stand with postal workers and remains committed to protecting the Postal Service’s mission and ensuring its long-term stability for communities across the country. 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