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An update from the office of Congressman Andrew Garbarino

SPOTLIGHT

Garbarino Welcomes U.S. Labor Secretary to Long Island for Workforce Development Tour

This week, Andrew and Rep. Nick LaLota proudly welcomed U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer to Long Island for a workforce development tour highlighting local training programs and labor partnerships. The tour began at the Local 290 Training Center in Hauppauge, where the Secretary and key leaders from the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (NASRCC) observed hands-on training in welding, framing, and acoustical work, and engaged with apprentices in the lecture hall.  Following the visit, the delegation traveled to Suffolk County Community College in Brentwood to explore the National Offshore Wind Training Center (NOWTC) partnership, a cutting-edge program preparing local workers for jobs in the emerging offshore wind industry. “Long Island has long been a leader in workforce innovation, and today’s visit showcased the strong partnerships between labor, education, and government that are building pathways to good-paying jobs for local workers,” Andrew said.From apprentices learning the trades at Local 290 to advanced technical training programs at Suffolk County Community College, these initiatives are not only equipping our workforce with the skills they need — they’re also strengthening Long Island’s economic future. I thank Secretary Chavez-DeRemer for making the trip and recognizing the importance of continued investment in our skilled workforce.” Learn more here.

ANDREW IN THE NEWS

Garbarino Reintroduces Legislation to Protect Qualified Immunity for Local Law Enforcement

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Congressman Andrew Garbarino (R-Bayport), in partnership with Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (R, NY-24), has reintroduced the Local Law Enforcement Protection Act, a federal bill aimed at safeguarding qualified immunity protections for police officers at the state and local levels across the country. The legislation reasserts the legal precedent established in the 2001 Supreme Court case Saucier v. Katz, which ruled that police officers are only liable for civil damages if they violate an individual’s “clearly established” constitutional rights. By codifying this standard, the Local Law Enforcement Protection Act seeks to ensure that law enforcement personnel acting within the bounds of the law are not subject to unwarranted legal action. The bill includes a provision to withhold certain federal grants from state and local governments that choose to strip qualified immunity protections from their officers. This move is designed to discourage jurisdictions from implementing policies that proponents of the bill say could undermine law enforcement and public safety. Congressman Garbarino emphasized that the measure is not about excusing misconduct but about maintaining a necessary legal shield for officers performing their duties in complex and often dangerous situations. 'Qualified immunity has long protected law enforcement officers from being sued for doing their jobs when acting lawfully in the line of duty. Police protect and serve our communities every day—we have a responsibility to stand with them, not tie their hands. I’m proud to co-lead the Local Law Enforcement Protection Act, which discourages state and local governments from adopting harmful policies that undermine our law enforcement community,' stated Garbarino.

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Click here to read the full article.

WHAT'S NEW IN NY-02

Supporting Students with Disabilities in Bohemia

The People’s Arc of Suffolk Educare Center recently hosted a heartwarming prom celebration for students with developmental disabilities. Events like these highlight the incredible work being done to create inclusive, enriching experiences for differently abled students across Suffolk County. The Center provides specialized, full-time instruction in a supportive setting—offering tools like a Multisensory Room, Augmentative Communication Lab, and the Bright Beginnings Autism Program to meet students’ unique needs. Andrew commends the Educare Center for its continued efforts to support and uplift differently abled students.

Celebrating Small Business Growth in Sayville

This week, Sayville celebrated ribbon cuttings for several local businesses, including Skincare by Wendy, BOHO Pilates, and Onyx Salon. Local entrepreneur Wendy Taylor owns both Skincare by Wendy and BOHO Pilates, making this the first dual ribbon cutting celebrated by the Greater Sayville Chamber of Commerce for one business owner—a testament to her dedication and success. These businesses reflect the continued growth of Long Island’s small business community, bringing new services, jobs, and energy to Main Street. Andrew remains committed to supporting small business owners and ensuring Long Island continues to be a great place to live, work, and grow.

CASEWORK HIGHLIGHT: Helping Secure Tax Refund

A West Islip resident reached out to Andrew’s office after experiencing delays receiving a refund from the IRS. Andrew’s casework team got involved and successfully secured the refund, which was mailed to the constituent. The case was resolved in full, with confirmation of interest income for future tax reporting.



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

Financial Services Committee Holds Hearing on Future of Digital Assets

Andrew participated in a Financial Services Committee hearing titled “American Innovation and the Future of Digital Assets: From Blueprint to a Functional Framework.” The hearing examined how Congress can provide regulatory clarity for digital assets while encouraging innovation and safeguarding consumers. Witnesses from across the digital finance and regulatory landscape—including former chairs of the CFTC and SEC, legal experts, and technology leaders—offered perspectives on how to strengthen U.S. leadership in digital asset markets and ensure a secure, functional regulatory environment. Andrew continues to support policies that promote responsible innovation, protect consumers, and position the United States as a global leader in digital finance. Watch his line of questioning here.

Andrew Supports Legislation To Combat The Opioid Crisis

This week, Andrew voted in favor of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025—bipartisan legislation that strengthens efforts to combat the opioid epidemic through prevention, treatment, and recovery initiatives. The bill reauthorizes and enhances programs that help patients struggling with substance use disorder, support first responders with access to life-saving naloxone, and improve treatment options for pregnant and postpartum women. It also strengthens state prescription drug monitoring systems and provides continued support for Comprehensive Opioid Recovery Centers. Andrew will continue working to ensure families and communities on Long Island have the tools and resources they need to fight back against the devastating impact of addiction.

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Rep. Andrew R. Garbarino
Congressman representing New York's 2nd Congressional District
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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