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's Statement on Recent U.S. Action Against Iran In response to recent developments, Andrew released the following statement: "Recently, the United States and Israel took targeted military action against Iran under Operation Epic Fury after continued threats against our forces and our allies. The Iranian regime is the world’s top state sponsor of terrorism and has been responsible for the deaths of hundreds of Americans. The regime has plotted to assassinate President Trump, financed and executed terrorist attacks across the globe, and targeted dissidents on U.S. soil. I’m grateful for our service members who are keeping our country safe. As Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, my priority remains protecting the safety and security of the American people. As we face a heightened threat landscape, it is more important now than ever that we fully fund the Department of Homeland Security. We cannot afford delays. We must ensure DHS is operating at maximum readiness to prevent and respond to threats against our homeland. America stands with our military. America stands with Israel. And America will always defend what is right." ANDREW IN THE NEWS Garbarino: New York State hospitals to get more than $2B in late COVID funds "New York State hospital systems will finally start to receive more than $2 billion in significantly overdue federal reimbursements for COVID-19 disaster expenses, House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Andrew Garbarino announced Wednesday. The Federal Emergency Management Agency is shaking loose the money after Garbarino (R-Bayport) last month wrote to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, warning his panel was opening an investigation into delays in the hospital payments. "Following my oversight efforts, I am thankful for Secretary Noem's response to my request and am grateful for President Trump and FEMA Office of Response and Recovery Associate Administrator Gregg Phillips’ help in beginning the delivery of much-needed and long-promised COVID-19 pandemic relief to states," Garbarino said in a statement Wednesday." Read More Here WHAT'S NEW IN NY-02 Advancing FEMA COVID Reimbursements for New York Hospitals After years of delays, more than $2 billion in emergency expenses incurred during the pandemic are now being obligated, providing long-awaited relief to hospitals that were on the front lines of the public health crisis. As part of Andrew's efforts, the MTA, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties also received critical reimbursements. This announcement comes after Andrew sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in January, requesting a status update and calling for the expedited review and release of these critical funds. “These funds are essential to strengthening our health care system and ensuring our communities are prepared for whatever challenges come next,” Andrew said. “Our hospitals stepped up during the pandemic. They deserve to receive every dollar they are owed.” Hospital leaders across New York expressed appreciation for the progress in finally delivering these reimbursements, which will help restore financial stability and reinforce health infrastructure statewide. Andrew will continue working to make sure remaining claims are reviewed quickly and that federal resources are delivered where they are needed most. Read the Full Press Release Casework Highlight: Another win for a Long Island Taxpayer Recently, a constituent contacted our office on a Thursday facing two urgent federal issues: an outstanding IRS debt matter and a pending passport application. He was hoping to travel on President’s Day to join his family for his high school senior’s vacation, but resolving either issue alone can often take weeks. Our team immediately engaged with the IRS and the State Department to address the outstanding debt and expedite the passport process. As a result, both matters were resolved in just days, and he was able to travel that weekend to be with his family for this important milestone. Andrew and his team look forward to helping more Long Islanders get the assistance they need. Whether it’s the VA, Social Security, Medicare, the IRS, passports, or other federal services, the office is always ready to step in and help. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Keeping Up with Congress Attending the State of the Union Andrew was honored to attend this year’s State of the Union alongside Chairman Jesse Garcia, Conservative Chairman Mike Torres, and Long Island Olympic gold medalist Charlie McAvoy. The evening highlighted key issues facing Long Island and the nation, including affordability, public safety, and strengthening America’s future. Andrew remains focused on delivering real results for Long Island families and ensuring their voices are heard in Washington.  Andrew was proud to stand alongside leaders and hometown champions who make Long Island and our nation so strong. Preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and America 250 This week, Andrew opened a Homeland Security Committee hearing on preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and nationwide celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary. With millions of visitors expected, Andrew emphasized the importance of strong coordination between federal, state, and local partners to address evolving security threats, including the malicious use of drones. He also stressed the need to finalize full-year DHS funding, so host cities receive the resources they are counting on to safely support these historic events. Watch Andrew's full opening statement Protecting Graduate Nursing Students from Harmful Loan Caps This week, Andrew signed on to a letter raising concerns with the Department of Education over a proposed rule that would classify graduate nursing programs as “non-professional,” limiting students to $20,500 per year in federal student loans and a $100,000 lifetime cap. Imposing these caps would make it significantly harder for aspiring nurses to complete their education and could worsen existing health care workforce shortages in our region. Nurses are highly trained professionals who play a critical role in delivering quality care to our communities. Limiting access to federal student aid for these programs would not only burden students but also undermine efforts to strengthen our health care system. Andrew will continue advocating to ensure graduate nursing students are treated fairly and that Long Island’s health care workforce remains strong. Standing with the Jewish Community Andrew was glad to meet with leaders during the annual AIPAC Policy Conference to discuss key national security challenges. The conversation focused on preventing Hamas and Hezbollah from regaining strength, unrest in Iran, and the disturbing rise of antisemitism here at home. Andrew remains committed to standing with the Jewish community, both on Long Island and across the country, and ensuring Israel’s security and America’s national security remain strong. 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