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 Fighting for Housing Affordability on Long Island Andrew was in Bayport this week for a housing affordability roundtable with the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York that was focused on the challenges facing Long Island families trying to buy a home and build for the future. Hosted at the Bayport-Blue Point Public Library, the conversation focused on practical, Long Island-first solutions to rising housing costs and strengthening local lending.  Andrew said, “For too many Long Island families, the dream of buying a home or staying in the community where they were raised feels further out of reach. That is why bringing local lenders and community leaders together for an honest conversation was so important. I’ll keep fighting for a Long Island first approach that expands opportunity and keeps our communities strong." Read More ANDREW IN THE NEWS OpenAI, Anthropic meet with House committee over advanced cyber models House Homeland Security Chair Andrew Garbarino (R-N.Y.) has been hosting ongoing private roundtables with tech and AI executives, according to the Washington Post, and has been discussing this work with Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.) who introduced a bill laying out a federal framework for AI this week. The committee has also held several hearings on the implications of generative AI models on national security, including nation-state cyberattacks. "Productive partnerships between industry and government are essential to help us stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape, ensure the government is prepared to securely harness AI for its defensive capabilities, and support and protect American AI development as adversaries like China seek to gain an advantage by any means," Garbarino told Axios in a statement. Garbarino added that these engagements help the committee identify risks and make sure "Congress is asking the right questions." Read More WHAT'S NEW IN NY-02 Financial Literacy Month at Bay Shore High School Andrew’s staff was glad to finish off Financial Literacy Month by joining Bay Shore High School and speaking with students about budgeting, saving, credit, and planning for the future. As a member of the House Financial Services Committee, Andrew knows financial literacy creates opportunity. It was great to see the next generation preparing for success. America 250th at the William Floyd Estate Andrew's team was honored to attend the America 250 commemorative event at the William Floyd Estate alongside local and state leaders. As our nation prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence, Andrew's team was proud to help recognize the history that helped shape our country right here on Long Island. National Teacher Appreciation Day Tomorrow is National Teacher Appreciation Day, and Andrew wants to thank the teachers across Long Island and around the country who show up every day for our kids. Teachers do so much more than teach. They mentor, encourage, and help shape the next generation. Andrew is grateful for everything they do, both inside and outside the classroom, and thanks them for the lasting difference they make in our communities every single day. Casework Highlight: Helping a World Trade Center Health Program Enrollee A Long Island constituent enrolled in the World Trade Center Health Program was facing delays with insurance coverage for an important medical procedure. After Andrew’s office stepped in and contacted the appropriate officials, the issue was resolved the very next day, and the constituent is now scheduled for treatment. 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. WHAT'S NEW IN CONGRESS Ending the 76 Day DHS Shutdown Andrew welcomed the end of the 76-day funding lapse impacting key components of the United States Department of Homeland Security. Andrew said, “For 76 days, Congressional Democrats forced a shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security as we face evolving threats both at home and abroad. As Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, I’m glad that today we fully funded TSA, FEMA, CISA, the USCG, the USSS, and other vital components so the men and women on the front lines can get back to focusing on their mission. As a lifelong New Yorker and representative of a community forever marked by 9/11, I know how important that mission is. While the majority of the Department has now been funded, I remain committed to ensuring every component of DHS, including those tasked with border security, has the resources and oversight needed to succeed. Supporting Conservation Andrew was glad to meet this week with leaders from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the Bronx Zoo, and the New York Aquarium to discuss the important role zoos and aquariums play in conservation and education. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Zoo & Aquarium Caucus, Andrew understands that these institutions are crucial to protecting our environment and preserving nature for future generations. A Historic Address from King Charles III Andrew was honored to attend the joint address to Congress by King Charles III. In a statement following the address, Andrew said, "King Charles’ address was an important reminder that our security depends on strength, vigilance, and trusted allies. His recognition of the United Kingdom standing with the United States after September 11th carries deep meaning for so many Americans. His closing message was simple and true: our two nations are stronger, safer, and more secure when we stand together." 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