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 The Ongoing Department of Homeland Security Shutdown The Department of Homeland Security shutdown continues to create unnecessary challenges for the men and women who protect our country every day. TSA officers and other frontline personnel are continuing to report to work even while many are not receiving paychecks. These professionals keep our airports secure and our transportation systems safe, and they deserve certainty and support from Washington. Andrew continues to emphasize the importance of fully funding DHS so these critical agencies can continue their work without disruption. Just this week, we saw another reminder of the dedication of our law enforcement professionals when an NYPD chief quickly stepped in to help tackle ISIS-inspired terror suspects. Moments like this show why strong support for our homeland security workforce is so important. ANDREW IN THE NEWS Andrew joins Mike Emmanuel with Fox News Rundown to discuss Homeland Security during a Heightened Threat Landscape "I was glad to join Fox News Rundown with @MikeEmanuelFox to talk about the ongoing U.S.–Israel operation against Iran, the potential implications for security here at home, and why it is so important that the Department of Homeland Security has the resources it needs to keep Americans safe." Listen Here WHAT'S NEW IN NY-02 St. Patrick's Day in New York Happy St. Patrick’s Day to everyone celebrating across Long Island, and a happy St. Joseph’s Day! Andrew was glad to join the community in Bayport for their annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This year’s parade honored Jennifer McNamara as Grand Marshal, a 9/11 FDNY widow who has been a strong advocate for first responder families. Earlier this year, Andrew presented Jennifer with a Congressional proclamation and flag. Events like the Bayport parade are a great reminder of the strong sense of community we have here on Long Island, and Andrew was grateful to be part of the celebration. Touring the New JFK Terminal One This week, Andrew toured the construction of the new Terminal One project at JFK Airport. This major redevelopment will help modernize one of the country’s busiest international gateways and improve travel for Long Islanders and all New Yorkers.  During the visit, Andrew spoke with airline officials and industry leaders about the project and the future of air travel in the region. The visit also highlighted the essential role TSA officers and other frontline personnel play in keeping travelers safe, particularly during the ongoing DHS funding lapse. Meeting with VJ Technologies Andrew met with leaders from VJ Technologies, a Bohemia-based company that designs advanced X-ray and CT imaging systems used across industries, including aerospace, defense, manufacturing, and medical technology. Their technology is used to inspect everything from aircraft parts and electronics to industrial equipment, helping ensure safety, quality, and reliability across critical sectors. Andrew appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from the company about the innovative work being done here on Long Island and the role local businesses play in strengthening American manufacturing Casework Highlight: Quick Turnaround on Social Security Disability Benefits Two senior sisters receiving Social Security Disability benefits contacted Andrew’s office on Monday afternoon with an urgent request. They needed their wage and income transcripts from the IRS to meet a Thursday deadline. Andrew’s casework team immediately got to work. By 9:00 a.m. the next morning, both sisters had received their transcripts and were able to submit the required paperwork in time to qualify for their local tax discount. Helping constituents navigate federal agencies is one of the most important services our office provides. If you ever need assistance with a federal agency, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Keeping Up with Congress Protecting the World Trade Center Health Program Andrew recently joined Congressman Nick LaLota and other New York colleagues in sending a letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding staffing shortages within the World Trade Center Health Program. “My New York colleagues and I were proud to have recently secured long-term funding for the World Trade Center Health Program, but funding alone isn’t enough. We need a clear briefing from HHS so Congress can fully understand any issues happening within the program and what steps are being taken to address staffing shortages. 9/11 responders and survivors deserve the best and most efficient program possible, one that delivers timely care without delays or red tape. I’m proud to join Rep. Nick LaLota and my colleagues in pushing for answers and accountability. We have a responsibility to make sure this program delivers the care these heroes were promised.” Resolution Opposing the Slaughter of Dogs and Cats for Human Consumption Andrew also introduced a resolution expressing the House of Representatives’ disapproval of the slaughter of dogs and cats for human consumption and encouraging Japan to enact a nationwide ban on the practice. The resolution reflects bipartisan concern for humane treatment of animals and promotes stronger international standards for animal welfare. 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