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 Meets with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV As part of a recent bipartisan Congressional Delegation to Italy, Andrew had the distinct honor of visiting Vatican City for an audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. The meeting underscored the deep ties between the United States and the Holy See, highlighting a shared commitment to promoting peace, human dignity, and religious freedom across the globe. Andrew was grateful for the opportunity to participate in this historic visit and to represent Long Island in dialogue that reflects shared values across nations. ANDREW IN THE NEWS Bill Would Require Teaching of Events of 9/11 Attacks " In advance of the 24th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-Patchogue), Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, reintroduced his House Resolution that would require elementary and secondary schools in all 50 states to include the events of the 9/11 attacks in their curriculum. The purpose of the resolution, Garbarino said, is to never forget that fateful day. Josh Gottheimer (D-New Jersey) joined Garbarino to co-lead the resolution. 'I remember the events of September 11, 2001, as if they were yesterday, and I know the same is true for most Americans who lived through that horrific day,' Garbarino said. 'For tens of millions of young Americans, and for future generations who were not there to see it, we have a responsibility to preserve the memories of the fallen, the heroism we witnessed, and the national security failures that left our country vulnerable to attack,'...The bill stated that not teaching these students about what happened on September 11, 2001, 'would be a disservice to the memories of the 2,977 innocent individuals who were murdered on that day, as well as the thousands of first responders and survivors who, in the 22 years since the attacks, have been diagnosed with, or have died as a result of, cancers and other illnesses related to their presence during the attacks.' It went on to say that it is imperative 'to prepare future leaders, Members of Congress, servicemembers, homeland security professionals, and everyday Americans with valuable insights and context critical to preventing future attacks on the United States.' " Click here to read the full article. WHAT'S NEW IN NY-02 Andrew Recognizes 25th Anniversary of ALS Walk on Long Island This weekend marked the 25th Anniversary of the ALS Walk on Long Island, an event that brings together nearly 1,000 participants each year in support of families and individuals living with ALS. As a member of the ALS Caucus, Andrew is proud to stand with the ALS community in their efforts to raise awareness, advance research, and strengthen support for those affected. In recognition of this milestone, Andrew provided a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol and a Congressional Certificate of Recognition to honor the organizers, participants, and advocates whose dedication has made this event a cornerstone of Long Island’s fight against ALS. Ribbon Cutting in Holbrook Holbrook recently welcomed the opening of a new Wells Fargo branch, a sign of continued growth and investment along Long Island’s Main Streets. The new location will provide local families and businesses with expanded access to financial services, reflecting confidence in Holbrook’s future as a hub for community and economic activity. Andrew is encouraged to see this kind of development, which strengthens Long Island’s local economy and supports the long-term vitality of our neighborhoods. Andrew Recognizes the Start of Rosh Hashanah This week, Jewish families across Long Island and around the world will gather to mark the beginning of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. This holiday is a time for reflection, renewal, and hope for the year ahead. Andrew wishes all who celebrate across NY-02 a peaceful and prosperous New Year. CASEWORK HIGHLIGHT: Securing Delayed IRS Refunds A constituent from East Patchogue reached out to Andrew’s office after waiting more than a year for the Internal Revenue Service to process Employee Retention Tax Credit refunds owed to his small business. Andrew’s casework team contacted the IRS and the Taxpayer Advocate Service to monitor the amended returns and push the claims forward. As a result of these efforts, the constituent ultimately received the long-delayed refunds, and Andrew’s casework team confirmed receipt before closing the case. 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 Underscores Security Priorities Ahead of World Cup & Olympics As Chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, Andrew participated in a Task Force roundtable on enhancing security for special events. The session brought together Members of Congress with representatives from FIFA and the Los Angeles Organizing Committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games (LA28). The discussion focused on preparations for the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, both of which will bring millions of visitors to the United States. Andrew emphasized the importance of strong coordination between federal, state, and local officials and private partners to address evolving threats, including cyberattacks, terrorism, and malicious drone activity. He also highlighted his recently introduced legislation to expand counter-drone authorities to better protect critical infrastructure and mass gatherings. Andrew Highlights Importance of Terrorism Risk Insurance Act The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002 played a vital role in America’s economic recovery following the 9/11 attacks, ensuring that businesses and communities could rebuild with confidence. This week, the House Financial Services Committee’s Housing and Insurance Subcommittee held a hearing on reauthorizing this critical program. Andrew continues to support efforts to maintain strong protections that safeguard our economy and strengthen resilience against future threats. Watch his full line of questioning here. Andrew Leads Bipartisan Effort to Support Lupus Research Andrew, co-chair of the Congressional Lupus Caucus, led a bipartisan letter to the Appropriations Committee urging inclusion of critical funding for the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program’s Lupus Research Program in Fiscal Year 2026. The letter reiterates the importance of continued federal investment in lupus research and asks appropriators to strongly consider this request during bicameral conference negotiations this fall. The Lupus Foundation of America has voiced its support for this effort, underscoring the critical need for ongoing research to improve treatments and outcomes for those living with lupus. Thanks for reading! Do you know someone who might like to receive these updates? Forward this email to your friends and family 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