STATE OF THE BOROUGH FACT SHEET: Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. delivered his State of the Borough address on Friday, June 3, at LaGuardia Community College in Long Island City, highlighting both the significant progress his administration has made to build back better as a borough over its first 19 months, as well as his bold, comprehensive vision for a stronger, fairer Queens in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the initiatives and highlights Borough President Richards outlined in his address, including some that his administration has already successfully launched.

GILLIBRAND: $15B ANNUALLY IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING: On May 31 U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand joined Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) announced the Senate introduction of their bicameral bill, the Affordable Housing and Area Median Income Fairness Act of 2022, which addresses core challenges that have led to a lack of affordable housing in New York City and our nation’s urban areas. The bill would invest $15 billion in affordable housing each year for 10 years and reexamine a key metric used in determining eligibility for low-income housing.

While many factors contribute to the housing crisis, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) calculation known as Area Median Income (AMI), used to determine rent prices and income limits for affordable units, excludes actual low-income families from the affordable housing intended for them. Currently, AMI is informed by income data from the entire metropolitan area – which means data from the wealthiest areas of Westchester and Rockland County s being used when determining who qualifies for housing in low-income communities across our region.

The Affordable Housing and Area Median Income Fairness Act of 2022 would take a multipronged approach to empowering municipalities, increasing developer transparency, and bolstering the supply of affordable housing. The bill would create over 350,000 new units of affordable housing with a $15 billion annual investment and directs HUD to assess alternative calculation methods for AMI to better include eligible low-income families in affordable housing determinations.

“The global pandemic exposed the extent of the housing crisis in New York City and across the country,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “Affordable housing is becoming increasingly hard to find, and we need to rethink how we help low-income families. The Affordable Housing and Area Median Income Fairness Act of 2022 would reexamine our approach to calculating AMI and would also invest $15 billion per year to help make housing more affordable for low-income and middle-class families in New York. I look forward to fighting to pass it in the Senate.”

“In my beloved Brooklyn and too many communities across this nation, the security of affordable housing has become entirely out-of-reach to those who rely on it. For the communities of color most impacted by these inequities, we cannot afford to do nothing while they suffer under the unaffordability of safety,” said Congresswoman Clarke. “The simple measures within the Affordable Housing and Area Median Income Fairness Act of 2022 won’t only lower income caps and rent prices and significantly increase the supply of affordable housing – they will keep our communities’ most vulnerable groups safe in homes that won’t bankrupt them. This bill is a fundamental step in our fight against housing insecurity, and I am proud to have introduced it.”

Nationwide, just under half of all renters face a rent burden exceeding 30% of their income. Almost 1 in 4 renters contribute more than 50% of their income to rent every single month. In cities across the country, especially in New York City, soaring rent prices and the severe lack of affordable housing units continues to displace low-income communities and keep basic housing needs out of reach.

The Affordable Housing and A.M.I. Fairness Act would:

In addition to Senator Gillibrand and Rep. Clarke, the Affordable Housing and Area Median Income Fairness Act of 2022 is supported by 36 cosponsors including New York Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jamaal Bowman, Ritchie Torres, Hakeem Jeffries, Jerrold Nadler, Mondaire Jones, Grace Meng, Adriano Espaillat, Gregory Meeks, Carolyn Maloney, and Nydia Velázquez.

GIANARIS PASSES TWO BILLS FOR A FAIRER ECONOMY: Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris announced the Senate passed two of his bills aimed at making New York’s economy fairer for working people. The first bill, the 21st Century Antitrust Act (S.933-A/A.1812) “is a comprehensive overhaul of New York’s deeply outdated antitrust laws. The second bill ends state tax breaks for the Qualified Opportunity Zone program (S.6800-A/A.8081), which was created as part of President Donald Trump’s tax giveaway in 2017,” Gianaris explained. The two bills are part of Senator Gianaris’ ongoing efforts to level the playing field between wealthy special interests and everyday New Yorkers, he said.

“There is too much power and wealth concentrated in too few hands and they have abused our outdated laws for too long,” said Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris. “Our antitrust laws were written a century ago for a radically different economy and they are in desperate need of reform. The Opportunity Zone program was intended to help economically distressed areas but is being abused to grant tax breaks to already overdeveloped neighborhoods.”

About the 21st Century Antitrust Act: Under current state law, antitrust laws require two parties to conspire to manipulate the economy before enforcement actions can occur. In the current economy, however, major commercial players (particularly Big Tech) successfully manipulate the market unilaterally – by exerting dominance. Examples include manipulating search results to favor their own products and punish competitors as well as undercutting competitors’ prices at a loss to drive them out of business or pressure them to sell to the larger companies. Senator Gianaris’ legislation would allow the state to take action against these players and would create an “abuse of dominance” standard to empower regulators to bring enforcement actions more successfully.

Senator Gianaris joined the Senate Committee on Consumer Protection and held New York’s first-ever hearing into corporate monopolies, hearing from representatives of Big Tech, as well as advocates and experts in antitrust policy in fall 2020.

About Reforming the Qualified Opportunity Zone program: The federal tax overhaul passed in 2017 included a provision aimed at incentivizing investment in economically distressed areas. In 2018, the state was supposed to designate census tracts that qualified as “Opportunity Zones” but also included other areas already suffering from overdevelopment and gentrification. Among these areas are wealthy parts of Long Island City and Astoria, among the fastest growing neighborhoods in the United States.

Investors who create opportunity funds to invest in these census tracts are able to defer large capital gains on their federal taxes. Much of New York’s tax code is linked to the federal tax code and Senator Gianaris’ legislation would prevent a massive and unjust giveaway of state resources to the wealthy, he said. He previously passed legislation eliminating the immediate tax incentive, and this bill addresses long-term tax consequences of the program.

Assembly Member Jeffrey Dinowitz said, “The balance of our economy is very off-kilter, and it is imperative that New York State take steps to ensure that regular people have the same opportunities for success and prosperity that were available decades ago. The 21st Century Anti-Trust Act would help support small and mid-size businesses compete against giant corporate behemoths who leverage their largesse to harm their competition, as well as workers and consumers. The Qualified Opportunity Zone program would ensure that our state is not giving away hundreds of millions of dollars to massive real estate developers. I am glad to see these two bills pass in the State Senate, and I will continue to work alongside State Senator Gianaris and my colleagues in the Assembly to get this done in our chamber too.”

COMPREHENSIVE PACKAGE TO STRENGTHEN GUN LAWS: Governor Kathy Hochul, Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Speaker Carl Heastie announced on May 31 that 10 bills have been introduced in both the Assembly and Senate that would tighten New York’s gun laws, close loopholes and directly address the gaps in our laws exposed by the horrific shootings in Buffalo, Texas, and around the country. The bills would: require information sharing between state, local and federal agencies when guns are used in crimes; make threatening mass harm a crime; require microstamping for new guns; increase accountability for social media platforms; eliminate grandfathering of large capacity ammunition feeding devices; prohibit the purchase of body armor for anyone who is not engaged in an eligible profession; strengthen the Red Flag law by expanding the list of people who can file for Extreme Risk Protection Orders, and other measures; require that an individual obtain a license, with a minimum age of 21, to purchase a semiautomatic rifle; and close the “any other weapon” loophole.

“Within the last month, two horrific mass shootings in Buffalo and in Texas have rattled this nation to our core and shed a new light on the urgent need for action to prevent future tragedies,” Governor Hochul said. “New York already has some of the toughest gun laws in the country but clearly we need to make them even stronger. New Yorkers deserve to feel safe in schools, in grocery stores, in movie theaters, in shopping malls, and on our streets — and we must do everything in our power to protect them. As New York once again leads, we continue to urge the federal government to seize this opportunity and pass meaningful national gun violence prevention laws.”

MALONEY TO INVESTIGATE ASSAULT WEAPON MFRS: Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, announced on May 27 that she sent letters to gun manufacturers Bushmaster Firearms Industries, Inc., Daniel Defense, LLC, Sig Sauer, Inc., Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc., and Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc., requesting information regarding their manufacture, marketing, and sales of firearms used in mass shootings, ahead of the Committee’s hearing on gun violence today (June 8).

“Our country faces an epidemic of gun violence, which is now the leading cause of death for children in the United States,” wrote Chairwoman Maloney.  “I am deeply concerned that gun manufacturers continue to profit from the sale of weapons of war, including the AR-15- style assault rifle that a white supremacist used to murder ten people last week in Buffalo, New York, and the AR-15-style assault rifle that was reportedly used this week in the massacre of at least 19 children and two teachers in Uvalde, Texas. Despite decades of rising gun deaths and mass murders using assault weapons, your company has continued to market assault weapons to civilians, reaping a profit from the deaths of innocent Americans.”

Maloney noted that “… an 18-year-old gunman entered Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, and opened fire on young school children.  While information is still being gathered, initial reports indicate that the shooter possessed a handgun and at least one AR-15-style rifle manufactured by Daniel Defense.  He reportedly used these weapons to kill at least 19 children and two teachers, and to injure multiple law enforcement officers.

“This horrific attack followed a mass shooting just 10 days earlier, when a gunman wearing military gear opened fire on shoppers and workers at a Tops supermarket in Buffalo, New York.  The shooter’s attack was racially motivated and meticulously planned to target a predominately Black community.   Using a Bushmaster XM-15, a semiautomatic rifle, the shooter murdered ten innocent people—including an armed security guard—and seriously wounded three others.

“The mass murders in Uvalde and Buffalo are just the latest examples of AR-15-style semiautomatic weapons sold by these companies being used to perpetrate mass shootings of innocent people.  In the past two decades, weapons of war manufactured by Bushmaster, Daniel Defense, Smith & Wesson Brands, Sig Sauer, and Ruger have been repeatedly used to carry out horrific and deadly attacks.”

“Despite strong public support for an assault-weapon ban in light of the horrific violence perpetrated with assault-style rifles, your company continues to manufacture large quantities of assault weapons and aggressively market them to the public,” wrote Chairwoman Maloney.  “The Committee respects the rights of law-abiding Americans under the Second Amendment, but that does not excuse irresponsible corporate conduct that fuels deadly gun violence and endangers our children.  The Committee is investigating the sale and marketing of your company’s AR-15-style semiautomatic rifles and similar firearms to inform legislative efforts to achieve common-sense gun safety reform to save Americans’ lives.”

The Committee requested that the companies provide information regarding the manufacturing, sales, and marketing of semiautomatic rifles based on the AR platform and similar variants by June 2, and related documents by June 6.

JAMES CRACKS DOWN ON GHOST GUN SELLERS: On the first day of Gun Violence Awareness Month, New York Attorney General Letitia James today took action to crack down on firearms sellers illegally selling and advertising gun parts that are used to create homemade, untraceable firearms, known as ghost guns. An investigation by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found that 28 firearms sellers across the state advertised and/or offered to sell one or more unfinished frames, receivers, and/or kits containing both. The OAG’s investigation found that a majority of these gun sellers were located in Western New York and on Long Island. New York law prohibits the sale, exchange, or disposal of unfinished frames and receivers. In cease-and-desist letters to all 28 dealers, Attorney General James ordered these businesses to immediately stop advertising and selling the prohibited parts and warned of the legal consequences, including imprisonment, if they do not comply.

“Ghost guns are fueling the flames of the gun violence epidemic, and we will not sit idly as they proliferate in our streets and devastate communities,” said Attorney General James. “Across the nation, too many lives are being lost because of these untraceable and unregistered weapons that anyone can get their hands on without a background check. We are not going to wait for another tragedy, my office is taking action to crack down on gun sellers that are illegally advertising ghost guns. If gun sellers do not comply with the law, they will face the full force of my office.”

The OAG’s investigation found that most of these firearms sellers advertised the prohibited unfinished receivers, frames, and kits online or at gun shows. They advertised them on their websites, with some allowing consumers to buy online and others telling consumers to call and ask for the price. Today’s enforcement action is the result of the Jose Webster Untraceable Firearms Act and the Scott J. Beigel Unfinished Receiver Act, which recently came into effect and criminalizes the sale of ghost guns and requires gunsmiths to register and serialize all such firearms.

Nine of these businesses are in Western New York, six on Long Island, five in Central New York, four in the Hudson Valley, two in the Southern Tier, and one in the Capital Region.

Unfinished receivers and frames, also known as 80 percent frames, do not have serial numbers and can easily be used to make untraceable guns, or ghost guns, at home using basic tools. Unfinished receivers hold the upper, lower, and rear portions of a semiautomatic rifle together. Purchasers of unfinished receivers only have to make a few small changes with a common drill press to transform an unfinished receiver into a fully operational one. Once milled, a receiver may be readily turned into a fully-assembled, illegal assault weapon. Similarly, a purchaser of an unfinished frame can use commonly available tools to finish the frame, which may then be readily assembled into an untraceable handgun.

Some of the businesses identified by OAG were selling kits that contained unfinished frames and the tools needed to put a finished gun together at home. They advertised “blank serialization plates,” which makes the firearms untraceable.

The OAG identified the following illegal products advertised by these gun dealers:

Illegal gun kit advertised for sale online by a Western New York gun shop. Kit includes an unfinished frame, hardened rail pins, a finishing jig, drill bits, and an end mill, which are all components that can be used to make an untraceable gun at home.

Illegal, unfinished lower receiver advertised for sale by gun sellers across the state.

Illegal, unfinished frame advertised for sale online by a Capital Region gun shop.

In her cease-and-desist letters, Attorney General James reminds the gun sellers that it is illegal in New York for any person not licensed as a gunsmith or dealer in firearms to knowingly possess an unfinished frame or receiver, and false or misleading advertisements about the legal risks of buying an unfinished frame or receiver could subject them to disgorgement, restitution, and penalties of up to $5,000 for each violation.

“For too long, ghost guns have been haunting our streets and taking lives. I have been warning about these dangerous gun kits for years, and we must take more aggressive action now to stop them from further proliferating,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer. “The new federal rule issued by the Department of Justice earlier this spring will help keep ghost guns off our streets, but there is still more to be done. That’s why I’m proud to support Attorney General James in cracking down on New York gun dealers who are illegally selling and advertising ghost gun parts. The time is right now to take action on these ghost guns because they are too easy to build, too hard to trace, and too dangerous to ignore.”

“It is chilling that anyone — including convicted felons and domestic abusers — can bypass the background check system and purchase individual, untraceable gun parts to build a homemade assault-style weapon,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “We have to do more to combat the epidemic of gun violence in New York, and I thank Attorney General James for taking this decisive action to crack down on firearms dealers.”

The action is the latest example of Attorney General James’ commitment to cracking down on ghost guns and combatting gun violence in New York. In April 2021, Attorney General James sent a letter to U.S. DOJ urging them to strengthen federal regulations on ghost guns. In February 2021, Attorney General James led a coalition of 21 attorneys general from around the nation in filing an amicus brief in the case Grewal v. Defense Distributed before the U.S. Supreme Court, where the coalition fought a lawsuit that seeks to stop states from enforcing their laws against a company disseminating dangerous 3D-printed gun files on the internet.

In September 2019, Attorney General James sent cease and desist letters to the companies behind a number of websites selling incomplete weaponry pieces to New Yorkers that could be easily assembled into illegal assault weapons. In July 2020, Attorney General James announced that all the companies behind the sale of these firearms or firearms components had complied with her cease and desist letters and ended the sale of these weapons to New Yorkers.

To date, Attorney General James has taken more than 3,000 firearms, including dozens of ghost guns, out of communities through gun buyback events and takedowns of violent drug and crime rings since taking office in 2019.

MAYOR FORMS GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION TASK FORCE: New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the formation of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, a comprehensive multiagency, cross-program effort to address the root causes of gun violence and prevent shootings before they take place. The new task force — formalized in Executive Order 19 (EO19) — will be co-chaired by Man Up! Inc. CEO and founder A.T. Mitchell and Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Sheena Wright. Members will include First Deputy Mayor Lorraine Grillo, Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phillip Banks, Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi, Deputy Mayor for Workforce Development Maria Torres-Springer, Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom, New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Keechant L. Sewell, New York City Department of Education (DOE) Chancellor David Banks, Chief Housing Officer Jessica Katz, and members of various city agencies.

“Gun violence is a struggle that has encompassed every part of our society, so we must do all we can to keep guns off our streets,” said Mayor Adams. “We need a holistic approach to confront it head-on, which is why I am today announcing the formation of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. This task force will be co-led by Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and A.T. Mitchell and will ensure that community safety is every agency’s responsibility — not just that of first responders. We are going to help identify and advance upstream solutions to prevent gun violence by engaging with the communities most impacted by violence, identifying gaps in services, and getting them the resources to build them out. New York City is going to lead the way to keep guns off our streets.”

The Gun Violence Prevention Task Force will convene leadership from several city agencies, including the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), the New York City Department of Social Services (DSS), the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), and numerous others.

Members of the task force will meet regularly to solve problems in real time and ensure that all agencies are held accountable for making and keeping New York neighborhoods safe. Its scope includes engaging with communities most impacted by violence, identifying gaps in services and programming, expanding programs with a proven record of success into underserved areas, and fostering greater interagency and government/community collaboration. The task force will also work in close partnership with the Crisis Management System (CMS), which deploys credible messengers to mediate and de-escalate disputes before they become violent. CMS providers have proven to be successful in driving down gun violence in areas where they have been deployed: Between 2010 and 2019, program areas have seen a 40 percent reduction in shootings, compared to 31 percent in other areas.

Mayor Adams also announced that each city agency shall designate an anti-gun violence liaison, delivering on a key plank of his Blueprint to End Gun Violence, unveiled earlier this year. These liaisons will serve as the key point-of-contact for the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and CMS providers and will take immediate action to resolve any gun violence challenges related to their agency.

The Gun Violence Prevention Task Force is part of a broader comprehensive approach spearheaded by Mayor Adams to tackle the crisis of gun violence, in collaboration with partners both within and outside of government. Recognizing the myriad factors that contribute to gun violence, the strategy aims to enhance several programs and initiatives across all areas of government, including housing, public health, education, youth programing, economic development, and workforce development. Over the course of the coming weeks and months, the administration will roll out new policies to build on Mayor Adams’ groundbreaking investments to promote a holistic vision of public safety.

Since taking office, Mayor Adams has taken significant steps to invest in both interventive and preventive models of public safety, including:

DEM MAJORITY PASSES CRUCIAL GUN SAFETY BILLS: Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris announced the State Senate passed a gun violence legislation aimed at reducing the number of dangerous weapons on our streets. Bills include strengthening the “Red Flag” law, mandating microstamping for new guns, requiring purchasers of semiautomatic weapons to be 21 years old, and requiring law enforcement agencies to share information about firearms used in crimes.

“The federal government has not taken meaningful action to combat gun violence, but our New York State Senate is filling the void by passing these bills. I am proud we are taking serious steps to tackle this critical issue,” said Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris. “We must keep our communities safe and prevent guns from taking more lives.”

Earlier this week, Senator Gianaris also met with Lori Alhadeff, whose daughter was killed in the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. They discussed more ways to work together to protect children in schools and address the scourge of mass shootings. Photos from their meeting at the state Capitol are available here.

Senator Gianaris has been a longtime proponent of stricter gun safety laws, including writing portions of the post-Newtown shooting SAFE Act and recently passing a law requiring New York State to publish a quarterly report about the origins of guns used in crimes. According to a 2015 analysis by the New York Times, two-thirds of guns used in crimes in New York were imported from other states.

The legislation passed by the Senate Majority includes:

Deborah Alexander, Vice President of CEC 30 said, “When there is gridlock and obstinance in Washington, we trust and rely on our state and local elected officials, like Senator Gianaris, to put our most vulnerable and valuable citizens—our children—first. Gun control is paramount to the safety and well-being of our children and NYC parents are grateful for this legislation.”

Nick Masson, PS/IS 122Q PTA President said, “I appreciate the swift response from Senator Gianaris and the NY lawmakers. We are truly at enough is enough. While Washington seems to not be able to get out of their own way, our state leaders have our children and educators best interest and safety at hand. While these are great measures, next we need to get assault weapons off the streets.”

Astoria parent Faridys Matias-Zambrana said, “Legislation towards combating gun control is a step toward preventing senseless acts of violence in our city. I’m hopeful bills like these will provide the safety our community deserves.”

HOLDEN BILLS: RIKERS REBUILD, POLICE SAFETY: Council Member Robert Holden introduced 6 bills at last week’s stated meeting of the New York City Council to address a wide variety of non-partisan issues affecting New Yorkers.

Council Member Robert Holden commented, “I will never give up on providing common-sense solutions to our city’s problems. Today, I introduced another group of bills, on several topics. It is vital that we allow our police to do their jobs safely and effectively, so I’ve introduced a bill to undo the unconstitutional diaphragm law. We also need to examine the cost of new facilities on Rikers Island and compare it to the cost and many disadvantages of putting skyscraper jails in our neighborhoods. I also introduced a bill for greater care and transparency regarding the planting of city trees, and more.”

The bills introduced by Council Member Holden:

STATE’S RECORD SETTING SPORTS WAGERING TAX REVENUE: Governor Kathy Hochul today announced on May 31 that New York’s recently launched mobile sports wagering has generated a record-breaking amount of tax revenue in less than six months, surpassing states that have offered sports wagering for years. According to New York State data, the state has generated over $267 million from sports wagering since January 2022. Mobile sports wagering accounted for $263 million since January 8, and sports wagering at New York’s four commercial casinos made up $4.3 million of total revenue since July 2019. According to reports, New York has collected more in sports wagering revenue in five months than the total revenue any other state has generated over several years. This includes Pennsylvania, which has collected $253 million in sports wagering revenue since November 2018, and New Jersey, which has generated $229 million since June 2018.

“In less than half a year, New York has become a leader among states in implementing successful gaming policies, with hundreds of millions of dollars going to important programs that will improve the lives of all New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “I am committed to upholding responsible and effective gaming policies that will move the industry forward and continue to drive our state’s economic growth.”

With the advent of mobile sports wagering, the New York State Gaming Commission, its partners in the Responsible Play Partnership, and gaming venues have engaged in proactive, informational events and outreach to encourage responsible gambling.

New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports Commissioner Chinazo Cunningham said, “OASAS stands ready with services and supports for New Yorkers struggling with problem gambling. The added revenue from mobile sports betting will allow OASAS to further enhance prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction services for individuals or their family members who experience harms from gambling.”

New York’s mobile sports wagering tax revenue will be reinvested into elementary and secondary education and grants for youth sports programming, along with problem gambling prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Additionally, the state has collected $25 million in license fees from eight mobile sports wagering platform providers, totaling an additional $200 million to the state. All of the license fees revenue has already been directed to education.

State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., Chair of the Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee said, “New Yorkers have proven that we were ready for sports betting, including its mobile component, and we are no longer the broken-down, wobbly-wheeled car in the right lane watching other states pass us by, but are now the shiny, revved-up sports car in left lane passing everyone else by. The fact that we have already surpassed all other states in revenue in less than six months is a testament to the quality of the dedicated work to provide a credible product for the residents of New York. This record amount of tax revenue is already being invested in our schools, our youth sports programs and New York’s problem gaming services. I look forward to an even brighter future for sports betting, working towards realizing even more funding and jobs for our state through gaming.”

According to GeoComply, a software firm used by sports books to ensure geolocation requirements, over 2.7 million unique player accounts have been created since January, conducting more than 620 million transactions.

For Fiscal Year 2023 and annually thereafter, revenues from mobile sports wagering will be distributed as follows: $5 million to fund sports programs for underserved youths, $6 million to fund problem gambling education and treatment, and the remaining majority to education aid.

Every Friday, the NYS Gaming Commission publishes weekly mobile sports wagering reports online.

The Commission’s regulations require operators to prevent underage gaming, provide bettors the availability to impose spending limits, and share information on gambling risks and signs of problem gambling. New Yorkers who are struggling with a gambling problem or know someone with a gambling problem can call the state’s toll-free, confidential HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369). New Yorkers can also contact the Regional Problem Gambling Resource Center at: nyproblemgamblinghelp.org/

BILLS EXTEND MAYORAL CTRL, REDUCE CLASS SIZE: NYS Senator John Liu, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on NYC Education, on May 31 introduced S.9459 to extend mayoral control of NYC public schools system and S.9460 to significantly reduce class sizes in every grade throughout NYC public schools.

Senator Liu stated, “After months of intense and complex negotiations, today we put forth legislation that will significantly modify NYC’s system of school governance in a way that will strengthen parental input and engagement, and for the first time, mandate the reduction of class sizes in New York City. As introduced, parents and the public will continue to be able to hold the mayor accountable while enjoying more meaningful engagement in PEP and CEC decision making. Students and teachers will finally realize the fruits of the Campaign for Fiscal Equity court decision, which found reducing class sizes is fundamental to a sound, basic education. Many thanks to my colleagues in the legislature, the Adams administration, CEC and PEP members, and all the students and parents who weighed in throughout these last months with insights into how and why we should change the system of school governance to make it more accountable to the people.”

ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON LIU BILLS: Mayor Adams released the following statement on May 31: “While we believe all parties are operating in good faith, we also believe the legislation as currently written is not the best we can do for New York City students, and we look forward to addressing these concerns in the coming days. For example, while my administration strongly supports lower class sizes, unless there is guaranteed funding attached to those mandates we will see cuts elsewhere in the system that would harm our most vulnerable students in our highest need communities — including the loss of counselor positions, social workers, art programs, school trips, after-school tutoring, dyslexia screenings, and paraprofessionals. There must also be a mechanism for altering or delaying the plan to reduce class sizes if the mandate is shown to severely adversely impact racial equity and the city’s fiscal health.

“As we finalize a potentially historic agreement for public schools, I expect the Legislature to follow through on its promise to improve the educational outcomes of students of color and to help the struggling families who need Albany to make responsible, equitable decisions on behalf of our children, now more than ever. I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this done.”

CHANCELLOR ANNOUNCES NEW AAPI CURRICULUM: Schools Chancellor David C. Banks on May 26 announced a new curriculum designed to center the experiences and voices of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community, a milestone step in our ongoing commitment to support AAPI students in our public schools.

This new set of curricular resources, Hidden Voices: Asian American and Pacific Islanders in the United States, is the third phase of the Hidden Voices Project, a companion to the NYCDOE’s Passport to Social Studies curriculum. The Hidden Voices project was initiated to help New York City’s students learn about and honor the innumerable people, often “hidden” from the traditional historical record, who have shaped and continue to shape our history and identity. Hidden Voices allows students to find their own voice as they become analysts of the past and to make connections between the past and the present.

“Our diversity is our strength, but refusing to teach our kids about our full past has left New York City students behind for far too long. That ends now,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “As home to over a million AAPI New Yorkers, it is only fitting that we are announcing a new AAPI curriculum in city public schools that truly reflects the full picture of AAPI history in the United States. Now, every New York City public school student will learn about the history, culture, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islanders in this nation and understand that everyone’s stories deserve to be heard. I want to thank Senator Liu and so many others who have fought for so long to make this curriculum a reality for all.”

“I’m so proud to announce this exciting new curriculum. It is essential that our classrooms and the lessons we teach our young ones reflect the incredible diversity of the great city of New York,” said Schools Chancellor David C. Banks. “Thank you to our partners and stakeholders who have helped us make this a reality – we are grateful for your steadfast dedication to our students.”

The initial Asian American and Pacific Islanders in the United States guide will include profiles of individuals, “Portraits of an Era,” and pedagogical guidance to support teachers to integrate these resources within the themes and narratives taught in New York City.

With the guide as a foundation, the Department of Social Studies and other content teams from the office of Curriculum and Instruction will develop multidisciplinary lessons for each grade level to amplify student engagement and highlight AAPI history, culture, and contributions. To support instruction and complement the curriculum, the DOE will purchase and make available culturally diverse AAPI trade books. Once developed, the curriculum will be shared with all schools and supported through a comprehensive professional learning plan to bridge information gaps and ensure the effective integration and implementation of the curriculum. Professional learning will help teachers support students in the exploration of their identity, provide richer learning experiences, and deepen all students’ appreciation for the contributions of AAPI communities.

The Asian American and Pacific Islanders in the United States curriculum will be piloted through draft Social Studies and Literacy mini units for all grade bands beginning in fall 2022. A more robust multidisciplinary curriculum, which will incorporate teacher feedback from the pilot, will be delivered to schools in the spring of 2024. This is part of the previously announced Universal Mosaic Curriculum, which is providing culturally responsive titles and classroom support materials to schools, as well as professional development opportunities for teachers and staff.

State Senator John Liu, Chair of the Senate Committee on NYC Education and sponsor of S.6359A to teach Asian American history and civic impact statewide, stated, “The city’s commitment to an AAPI curriculum is a significant milestone that should serve as a model to be replicated throughout the state of New York. Kudos to the Chancellor for recognizing that the best way to stop the onslaught of anti-Asian hate that has continued unabated over the past several years is through education in our classrooms. This is an important first step, and I will continue working with all stakeholders to prioritize the passage of S.6359A in Albany to teach Asian American history and civic impact statewide.”

“After leading efforts on the federal level to promote the teaching of Asian Pacific American history in history and civics grant programs administered by the U.S. Department of Education, I am thrilled that my home city will be implementing a new AAPI curriculum in New York City public schools,” said U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens). “I thank and commend Mayor Adams and Chancellor Banks for taking this important step, and I am excited that this initiative is being announced during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. For generations, Asian Pacific American history has been poorly represented in our nation’s K-12 education system and social studies textbooks. Asian Pacific American history is American history, and when we fail to tell our children these stories, we lose a rich and nuanced perspective on our American story. Our school curriculums should be inclusive of all the diverse stories that our nation has to offer. Teaching future generations about our past, and that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders helped make America the greatest country on the planet, will help breakdown the stereotypes and negative perceptions that sadly still exist about Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. All communities of color must be better represented in the history lessons taught to our students so that we can learn from our past and create a more just society. I look forward to New York City’s new curriculum launching soon.”

As a proud product of New York City public schools from elementary school through college, I know that a culturally responsive curriculum has a massive impact on students,” said Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams. “I’m glad that curriculum is being updated and expanded to include and center more diverse voices, especially AAPI perspectives. Our young people deserve to feel safe, seen, heard, and represented in their classrooms, and this announcement is a great step in the right direction.”

“AAPI history is Queens history, New York City history and American history. Establishing curriculum centering the experiences of our diverse AAPI communities is critical in our mission to ensure our children receive the most well-rounded and informed education possible,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “I applaud the DOE and all our community partners for this vitally important work, which will pay dividends for generations of children to come.”

“It is important to include the experiences and contributions of the AAPI community in our school curriculum. By highlighting AAPI culture and historic impact, we will not only be offering a more inclusive educational experience, but also a more accurate one. I recognize the importance because I taught social students in the NYC high schools. I thank School Chancellor Banks for making sure these voices are no longer hidden,” said Senator Toby Ann Stavisky.

“Since taking office I have been a vocal supporter of teaching AAPI history in our schools, not only in an effort to stem the recent rise in anti-Asian hate crimes by promoting an understanding of the rich history of the AAPI community in this country, but also to instill a sense of pride among our children in the Asian American community,” said Council Member Sandra Ung. “Last week, I introduced a resolution in the City Council with my colleague Linda Lee to support legislation at the state level to include AAPI history in the curriculum in schools across New York State. I am pleased to learn that the Department of Education is leading the way in this effort, and has pledged to begin teaching AAPI history and culture and sharing our stories in the city’s classrooms.”

“Last week my City Council colleagues and I introduced a resolution calling on New York State to recognize AAPI history through the curriculum of our schools, and today Mayor Adams and Chancellor Banks showed they are listening,” said Council Member Linda Lee, Vice-Chair of the New York City Council Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus and first Korean-American alongside Julie Won. “New York City is home to over 1.2 million AAPI New Yorkers, and we have made, and will continue to make invaluable contributions to our city. Having our history included in the Department of Education’s curriculum through Hidden Voices will educate others about our culture and instill pride in AAPI children learning across the city. AAPI history is American history, and I am immensely proud that our heritage will be recognized in our schools thanks to Chancellor Banks’ leadership.”

CELEBRATING NEW LIC SCHOOL SPACE: Borough President Richards joined the Academy of American Studies school community on Wednesday, May 25 to cut the ribbon on its new space in Long Island City. The Borough President emphasized how critical it is for the students of District 30 to have a first-class facility that will bring nearly 1,000 school seats. Queens families know how indispensable it is to combat overcrowding in all our public schools, noted Richards.

EXCELSIOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION OPEN FOR NEW 2022-23: Governor Kathy Hochul announced on May 26 that the application for the Excelsior Scholarship for new applicants for the 2022 – 23 academic year is now open.

Dr. Guillermo Linares, President of the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation said, ” I applaud Governor Hochul for her commitment to ensure that higher education in our State is more affordable and accessible, especially among disadvantaged and low – income populations who face financial barriers to college attainment. The Excelsior Scholarship can help New York’s students realize their dream of a higher education by providing financial support to alleviate the uncertainties around paying for college.”

SUNY Interim Chancellor Deborah F. Stanley said, “SUNY’s mission of affordable, accessible, and high – quality education means lifting up students from low – and middle – income households so that they have the same opportunity to achieve their academic goals as those from affluent families. The Excelsior Scholarship is another way New York State breaks down financial barriers deterring students from continuing their educational careers after high school. We thank Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to our SUNY students and for tirelessly working to ensure that every New Yorker who dreams of learning in a college classroom can do so.”

CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez said: ” The Excelsior Scholarship has become another reliable fixture of New York State’s unrivaled portfolio of tuition assistance programs, which enable a growing swath of residents to obtain a quality education and start fulfilling careers without the kind of c rushing debt that burdens so many graduates across the country. It is comforting to know that New York has families’ backs despite the many challenges of the pandemic and ongoing fluctuations of our economy. We thank Governor Hochul for her unwavering commitment to our state’s public higher education institutions, and her recognition of the profound differences that college can make for individuals, families and society.”

The 2022 – 23 Excelsior Scholarship application is open to first – time students entering college in the Fall 2022 term and current college students who have never received the Excelsior Scholarship. Current Excelsior Scholarship recipients should not complete this application. Students eligible for the Excelsior Scholarship under the Senator José Peralta New York State DREAM Act can apply online.

More than 19 0,000 New York residents now attend CUNY or SUNY tuition – free thanks to the addition of students receiving the Excelsior Scholarship. Applications will be accepted through August 31, 2022.

MALONEY USPS SUPPLEMENTAL EIS: Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney, Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, released the following statement in response to the Postal Service’s announcement that it will submit an updated environmental impact statement (EIS) for the acquisition of its Next Generation Delivery Vehicle (NGDV):

“I am pleased that following my Committee’s hearing on the topic and requests for information, the Postal Service answered our calls and announced they will file a revised EIS that it expects to result in the purchase of additional electric vehicles.

“The Postal Service’s original EIS was deeply flawed, which is why I have been urging the Postal Service to issue a new EIS for months. Neither the Postal Service nor the American people can afford a gas guzzling postal fleet that will damage our environment when clean, electric vehicles are an option.

“In the meantime, I continue to have significant questions about the Postmaster General’s plans to consolidate Postal Service facilities and will be monitoring this closely to ensure that mail is delivered on time as the American people expect and deserve.”

On April 5, 2022, the Committee held a hearing that raised troubling concerns that the Postal Service used flawed assumptions in its environmental and cost analyses to justify the purchase of gas-guzzling delivery trucks rather than electric vehicles.

On May 11, 2022, Chairwoman Maloney sent a letter to the Postmaster General requesting information about the Postal Service’s acquisition of its NGDV and urging the Postal Service to issue a new EIS and to take steps to rapidly transition to an electric fleet rather than moving ahead with plans to buy tens of thousands of gas-guzzling trucks.

ADAMS’ VISION FOR ‘CITY OF YES’: New York City Mayor Eric Adams on June 1 laid out a plan to use the city’s zoning tools to support small businesses, create affordable housing, and promote sustainability — part of his vision for New York to become a more inclusive, equitable “City of Yes.” The plan, announced this morning at the Association for a Better New York breakfast, includes three major citywide amendments (Zoning for Economic Opportunity, Zoning for Housing Opportunity, and Zoning for Zero Carbon); an effort to invest in and plan around emerging job hubs and commercial corridors in all five boroughs, starting in the Bronx; and initiatives to cut red tape and center equity in planning.

“We are going to turn New York into a ‘City of Yes’ — yes in my backyard, yes on my block, yes in my neighborhood,” said Mayor Adams. “These proposals focused on economic recovery, affordable housing, and sustainability will remove red tape for small businesses, expand housing opportunities in every neighborhood, and accelerate the transition to our energy future. New Yorkers are not going to wait around while other cities and other countries sprint towards a post-pandemic world, and now we won’t have to.”

“A citywide recovery requires a citywide approach, including how we create opportunities for New Yorkers using our tools of zoning and land use,” said Deputy Mayor for Economic and Workforce Development Maria Torres-Springer. “I am proud to be advancing three citywide zoning text amendments focused on some of our city’s most urgent challenges — supporting our businesses, increasing housing options, and reducing our carbon footprint — and jumpstarting neighborhood planning efforts around the Bronx Metro-North stations and across all five boroughs to bring opportunities closer to residents.”

Mayor Adams’ “City of Yes” plan follows his “Rebuild, Renew, Reinvent: A Blueprint for New York City’s Economic Recovery,” and comes ahead of the release of his housing plan.

The first citywide text amendment — Zoning for Economic Opportunity — will provide local businesses with the flexibility to repurpose their space for a post-pandemic city. This amendment will:

Remove unnecessary geographic limitations on certain businesses, including life sciences, custom manufacturing, maker-retail, and nightlife;

Eliminate obstacles to repurposing space, allowing the city’s businesses and economy to evolve over time; and

Create flexibility for local businesses to expand without relocation and without triggering needs for additional parking.

The second citywide text amendment — Zoning for Housing Opportunity — will encourage the creation of more housing in neighborhoods across the entire city. This amendment will:

Expand opportunities for affordable and supportive homes for New Yorkers by increasing the floor area ratio for all types of affordable housing, similar to the allowance already afforded to affordable housing for seniors;

Broaden the acceptable variety of housing types and sizes, including studios, to accommodate a wider range of families and households;

Ease conversions of underutilized commercial buildings into homes; and

Reduce unnecessary parking requirements that add cost and take up space in buildings that could be used for additional homes.

The final citywide text amendment — Zoning for Zero Carbon — represents a critical step towards New York City reaching its carbon reduction goals. This amendment will:

Remove obstacles to deploying new clean energy storage and uses, including electric vehicle charging;

Facilitate building retrofits for sustainability, including allowing more rooftop coverage for solar panels; and

Eliminate barriers to the electrification of building systems such as heat pumps or efficient HVAC systems.

STATE CONTRIBUTES $87M TO HELP EASE DISASTER BURDEN: Governor Kathy Hochul announced on May 27 New York State will fully cover the required non-federal share of FEMA’s Public Assistance program for local governments impacted by Tropical Storm Isaias, Tropical Storm Fred and Hurricane Ida, all which brought devastating flooding impacts to New York in the last two years. This funding is essential to delivering projects which help local governments rebuild public infrastructure, easing the financial burden placed on the municipalities working to recover.

“We know all too well how much damage storms like Isaias, Fred and Ida brought upon our state in the last two years, and today we’re announcing New York will cover the non-federal share for FEMA’s Public Assistance program,” Governor Hochul said. “This significant step will help ease the burden on local governments planning to apply for this critical funding, and will help rebuild publicly-owned infrastructure. As our climate changes and heavy storms continue to happen more frequently, we will continue to do everything we can to help New Yorkers and their communities recover following extreme weather events.”

Following a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration, impacted counties are eligible to receive relief funding in the form of Public Assistance and/or Individual Assistance. Public Assistance supports the efforts of local governments to rebuild damaged infrastructure and facilities, while Individual Assistance is direct funding to home and business owners. Once projects are approved and completed, the federal government typically reimburses the project sponsor up to 75 percent of costs, while the recipient is required to cover the remaining 25 percent. This also applies to the federal Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provides funding to localities to strengthen the long term resiliency of their communities.

In March, Congress passed and President Biden signed H.R. 2471, which increased the federal share of reimbursement to 90 percent for projects resulting from major disasters declared between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021 in order to provide relief to states and localities already grappling with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

New York State was impacted by three federally-declared disasters during this time period:

To further ease that burden, Governor Hochul is assuring local governments that New York State will fully fund the non-federal share of projects eligible for FEMA’s Public Assistance program.

The Governor is also reminding localities that the state’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) is currently accepting applications to access Hazard Mitigation Grant funding available to local governments impacted by Tropical Storm Fred and Hurricane Ida.

DHSES will review applications and provide technical assistance to applicants upon request. The deadline to apply is June 1, 2022. More information on how to apply for funding and the HMGP process can be found at: www.dhses.ny.gov/hazard-mitigation

ADAMS SIGNS FIRE SAFETY ENFORCEMENT, EDUCATION: New York City Mayor Eric Adams signed on June 1 five pieces of fire safety legislation into law, strengthening enforcement, education, and outreach efforts in the wake of the tragic Bronx apartment fire this past January. The laws include shortening the timeline of re-inspection for self-closing door violations, increasing the fine for building owners who do not cure violations, banning the sale of certain space heaters that do not meet certain safety standards, and codifying increased fire safety outreach.

“More than a dozen New Yorkers, some just children, were killed in the fire at the Twin Parks apartments. We mourn their passing but that is not enough — we must ensure that a tragedy at that level never happens again,” said Mayor Adams. “In March, I signed an executive order to immediately improve fire safety coordination and outreach. Today, I’m proud to work with the City Council to create long-term solutions that strengthen enforcement and education and will keep all New Yorkers safe.”

“The Twin Parks fire was a devastating tragedy, the Department of Buildings is committed to working with its partner agencies to improve fire safety and help prevent tragedies like this from happening again,” said New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) Commissioner Eric Ulrich. “This package of legislation will improve fire safety and help keep New Yorkers safe.”

The mayor signed the following bills into law:

Intro. 104 clarifies the definition of a self-closing door to mean a door equipped with a device that will ensure the door, when opened and released, returns to the closed position and self-latches shut.

Intro. 105 shortens the timeline for correction of self-closing door violations from 21 days to 14 days, requires HPD to reinspect a self-closing door violation no later than 20 days after the expiration of the 14-day correction period, and increases penalties for building owners who do not cure those violations. It establishes a civil penalty range of $250-$500 for the violation of the self-closing door requirement and a $250/day penalty from the date set for correction of the violation until it is corrected. The law also increases civil penalties for the false certification of corrections for Class A, B, and C violations of the Housing Maintenance Code.

Intro. 106 bans the sale of electric space heaters that do not have automatic shut off capabilities if the heater falls over or overheats, and requires that space heaters sold in New York City be labeled by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

Intro. 131 expands fire safety education to require FDNY to provide educational materials and conduct outreach relating to the safe use of electric space heaters in residences. The law — which takes effect as FDNY continues to conduct a robust fire safety education program — also requires that such educational materials be made available to tenants in the top 10 most common languages in New York City.

Intro. 155 prohibits the DOB from charging filing fees for a permit to repair fire damaged conditions of one-, two- or three-family homes. If construction defects are discovered at such fire-damaged locations, this fee exemption would extend to other dwellings within the same homeowner or cooperative association to correct the same construction defect. The law will diminish repair costs for owners remediating fire-damaged properties and construction defects found during the remediation process and task DOB with conducting targeted outreach showcasing the fee-exemption program.

The signing of these bills into law follow Mayor Adams’ signing of Executive Order 12 in March that strengthened fire safety enforcement and outreach to increase coordination between FDNY and HPD inspectors to identify safety violations earlier, as well as increased fire safety compliance.

MENG RESOLUTION RECOGNIZES MENSTRUAL HYGIENE DAY: On May 27, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives to recognize Menstrual Hygiene Day. The global observance, held every May 28, seeks to raise awareness about period poverty.

Period poverty is a lack of access to menstrual products, education and hygiene facilities. Currently, about 17 million individuals in the U.S. have reported a lack of access to menstrual products; 1 in 5 women and girls have reported that they’ve missed school or work because of period poverty; and 1 in 4 menstruators report struggling to secure enough period products.

Meng’s resolution aims to increase conversation, awareness, and break social stigmas surrounding period poverty in the United States and around the world. The measure would also recognize the need to change social norms surrounding menstrual hygiene, and it calls for increased research on access to menstrual health management. Additionally, the resolution uplifts and recognizes the work of activists around the country working to combat period poverty, while also urging the enactment of laws to address the challenges of menstruators around the globe.

“Period products are essential for over half of our nation’s population. It is unconscionable that some students must forego educational opportunities because they lack access to these items. We have to begin by breaking down the social stigmas that surround conversations of menstrual health,” said Congresswoman Meng. “Period poverty is something that affects all ages. Young people miss school, extra circular activities, and time with friends while adults miss work and time with family because they cannot afford menstrual products. That is why I introduced this resolution to continue to highlight the conversation around menstrual equity, and what we must do to end period poverty once and for all.”

In addition to raising awareness of period poverty, Menstrual Hygiene Day highlights the importance of good menstrual hygiene management and the importance of talking about the subject to break the stigma over discussing period poverty. Menstrual Hygiene Day was first celebrated in 2014.

‘EXTEND USDA CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAM WAIVER’: Over 80 New York State legislators signed a letter penned by Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas and State Senator Michelle Hinchey calling on New York’s United States Senators and Congressional Delegation to extend the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) nation-wide Child Nutrition Program waiver authority. The move would allow universal school meals through the school year 2022-23 and summer meals in the upcoming summer break.

In March 2020, the USDA provided waivers to schools, allowing them to serve meals at no cost to all students. These meals have been a lifeline for struggling families, but the waivers will expire at the end of this school year, leaving over 2,000 schools and nearly 800,000 students in New York State without access to free school meals for all. In New York, children qualify for free school meals if their household’s income is at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty level.

Earlier this year, California and Maine passed state legislation to avoid this hunger cliff. Assemblymember González-Rojas and State Senator Hinchey advocated for this funding allocation in the New York State Budget to cover this cost for a year. But it was not included in the Final Enacted FY 23 State Budget. The legislation they introduced that would provide free breakfast and lunch to all students in schools also did not pass this session. According to the letter, a recent USDA survey found that 90% of school food authorities are relying on waivers to operate nutrition programs this school year and one in five children in New York experience food insecurity. It also cited rising food costs for schools and staffing shortages as issues that continue to challenge schools.

“In one of the richest nations in the world that has more billionaires than it did previously, it would be a tragedy to allow the Child Nutrition Program to expire. Hundreds of thousands of children and thousands of schools depend on this flexibility by our federal government to feed hungry students every day. We urge our Congressional leaders and delegation to advocate for the extension of this authority. Every child that goes hungry is a policy failure. While we will continue to fight at the state level to cover these costs, we ask our federal partners to intervene and do what is right for all of New York’s students,” said Assemblymember González-Rojas.

“Ensuring our kids have access to nutritious meals at school is the most effective thing we can do to fight the hunger in their bellies and set them on a path for success. The Child Nutrition Program has been a lifeline for working families and a silver lining in helping us create a more equitable food system that recognizes the incredible role of New York’s farms in expanding food access. Letting this program expire will devastate our communities, and that’s not an option we can accept. I’m proud of the coalition we’ve built in support of universal school meals, and I will continue to urge our Congressional leaders to act so that every student in New York is guaranteed a healthy meal,” said State Senator Michelle Hinchey.

“Ensuring children have equal access to school meals is about as basic as it gets. Research has proven that when all students have access to free school meals their health, academics and mental health thrive. As the effects of the pandemic further stress family and school food budgets, it is critical that Congress extend the Child Nutrition Program waiver. Over 2 million students in New York State alone benefit from the waivers,” said Liz Accles, Executive Director at Community Food Advocates.

“Universal school meals are the ultimate win-win-win. They reduce child hunger, improve educational performance, and cut costs and paperwork for school districts. There is an urgent need for them in every state – and ensuring all kids get nutritious meals aids the national economy and ultimately bolsters our national defense – so our very wealthy uncle named Sam should pay for them,” said Joel Berg, CEO of Hunger Free America.

STATEWIDE GAS TAX HOLIDAY STARTS:  Governor Kathy Hochul announced the suspension of certain taxes on motor fuel and diesel motor fuel takes effect on Wednesday, June 1. The motor fuel excise tax, State sales tax, and Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District sales tax on motor fuel and diesel motor fuel will remain suspended through the end of the year. This fuel taxes suspension will provide a reduction of at least $0.16 per gallon statewide, with some counties providing additional savings per gallon.

“Fuel prices have surged in recent months, hurting working families and small businesses the most, and it is crucial that we provide New Yorkers relief,” Governor Hochul said. “By suspending certain fuel taxes for the next seven months, New York is providing some $609 million in direct relief to New Yorkers – a critical lifeline for those who need it most. At a time when families are struggling because of economic headwinds and inflation, we will continue to take bold action to reduce the economic burden on New Yorkers and get money back in their pockets.”

Governor Hochul had previously directed distributors, wholesales, and retailers of motor fuel and highway diesel motor fuel to prepare for the upcoming suspension of these taxes.

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “New Yorkers have been picking up the tab for economic hardships due to geopolitical conflicts and a global pandemic. That is why we suspended the fuel tax and, starting today, are giving workers and families a break that they deserve and allowing them to keep their hard-earned money in their pockets. I am proud to have led the Senate Majority in working with Governor Hochul and Speaker Heastie to support New York consumers during these uncertain economic times.”

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said, “As gas prices continues to hit record highs, the Assembly Majority remains committed to delivering relief for New York’s families and small businesses. I am hopeful that this suspension of the gas tax by the state and certain counties will alleviate some economic pressure as families prepare for their summer vacations and businesses rebound from the economic impacts of the pandemic.”

RICHARDS LAUNCHES PRIDE MONTH: “In less than a week, we welcome June – and with it, we welcome Pride Month, a joyous and reflective time for our LGBTQIA+ communities and us allies.” Borough President Richards helped kick off Pride with the annual flag raising ceremony on the steps of Queens Borough Hall on Wednesday, June 1. His office will also host a fun-filled Pride Month Celebration right in Borough Hall. RSVP at docs.google.com/forms/d/1kMlPVXZzFcWAQpScksDxfkcxI4vG_d5JjmVo6MXBpo8/viewform?ts=5e4d76b5&edit_requested=true for the PRIDE MONTH CELEBRATION AT QUEENS BOROUGH HALL (Monday, June 13 at 6pm at Queens Borough Hall), as well as a VIRTUAL NYS CONSOLIDATED FUNDING APPLICATION INFO SESSION (Monday, June 13 at 12pm via Zoom)

MALONEY USHERS IN PRIDE MONTH: Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney released the following statement: “Itʼs June, and that means a few things: schoolʼs out for the summer, the weather is warming up, and most importantly, itʼs Pride Month! I have fought alongside the LGBTQ+ community since my earliest days on the New York City Council — through advocacy, legislation, and leadership. I was the first City Councilwoman to introduce a domestic partnerships bill, something deemed so controversial at the time that I had to fight to even have it printed.

“Fights like these and sacrifices by LGBTQ+ leaders have paved the way for the progress weʼve achieved, but we still have a long way to go to ensure that protections for all members of the LGBTQ+ community are enshrined nationwide.

“Thatʼs why Iʼm proud to have continued my ally-ship in Congress, working to pass legislation like the Family Medical Leave Inclusion Act and the Equality Act — two vital bills that ensure LGTBQ+ folks are treated justly. We canʼt stop working until the battle is won, and we canʼt give up even when the going gets tough. So, please join me this month and every month in celebrating the LGBTQ+ community here in NYC and across the nation. Have a happy Pride!”

KIM SECURES $100K FOR FLUSHING TOWN HALL: On May 27 Assemblyman Ron Kim announced that he had secured $100,000 in funding for Flushing Town Hall from this year’s State budget. The money will go towards programming and operations for the cultural and arts center, ensuring that it can continue to maintain its robust creative calendar and offerings for the community.

The mission of Flushing Council on Culture and the Arts (FCCA), its parent organization, is to present multi-disciplinary global arts that engage and educate the diverse communities of Queens and New York City, in order to foster mutual appreciation between the myriad different cultures and people of New York.

Assemblymember Ron Kim said: “Art is a way to expression, a way of joy, a way of making people understand things which can’t be communicated in conventional ways. Art matters because we matter, our stories matter. Flushing Town Hall has shown their commitment in bringing outstanding and thought-provoking programs and exhibits to our community, and in the process served countless people throughout our borough and city.

Ellen Kodadek, Executive and Artistic Director for Flushing Town Hall, said, “Flushing Town Hall is enormously grateful for Assemblymember Kim’s support. We wouldn’t be able to serve the enormously diverse communities in Queens without the financial support and encouragement of many partners; Assembly Member Kim has shown himself to be a champion of our local community here in Flushing, and an ally of communities across Queens and New York City, and so it is an honor to have his partnership and support. We’re also really grateful to the Assembly and the Governor for making more money available, and to the Assembly Member for believing in us and advocating for us for so many years – this generous award will go a long way toward helping us bounce back from the pandemic.”

PUBLIC BEACHES NOW OPEN FOR THE SUMMER: NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue announced that the City’s eight public beaches opened for swimming on Saturday, May 28, and remain open through Sunday, September 11, 2022.  Lifeguards will be on duty daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; swimming is unsafe and strictly prohibited at all other times.

Beach capacity will not be limited for the upcoming season, and masks are recommended in Parks comfort stations.

“Summer is here and there’s no better way to stay cool and get outdoors than by visiting New York City’s 14 miles of beautiful beaches,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “I encourage all New Yorkers to grab their friends and families and head to our beaches to enjoy some fun in the sun. Remember to be safe in and around the water this summer, only swim when lifeguards are present, and together we’ll make sure this is a safe and enjoyable season for all beach-goers.”

“Break out the swimsuits, sunglasses, and sunscreen – beach season has arrived in New York city!” said Parks Commissioner Donoghue. “Our beaches are some of the best places to cool off and beat the heat in the city, and we want everyone to come out and enjoy the water at any of our 8 public beaches this summer. We urge everyone to stay safe and follow the directions of our lifeguards: swimming is only allowed in designated areas, from 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. when lifeguards are on duty.”

City beaches span a total of 14 miles and include Orchard Beach in the Bronx; Coney Island and Manhattan Beach in Brooklyn; Rockaway Beach in Queens; and Midland Beach, South Beach, Cedar Grove Beach, and Wolfe’s Pond Beach on Staten Island.

Rockaway Beach, one of New York City’s finest beach towns, welcomes visitors back to a replenished beach for a summer of coastal fun.  Rockaway Beach is home to the city’s only designated surfing areas and its boardwalk has become known for its varied concessions which sell food and drinks from around the world including Peruvian, Bolivian, Caribbean, and Central Asian fare. As part of the FEMA funded Shorefront Parkway projects, several new amenities are coming to Rockaway this year, including the recently opened Adventure Course and pickleball courts at B101-102, and a brand new dog run at B90. Also on the way, work is underway on a new Gateway Performance Space at B94-95, a new playground between B98-101, a labyrinth at B93, and a multipurpose recreation area at B77-81. As part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Atlantic Shoreline Resiliency Project, this summer will also see the continuous development and rehabilitation of stone groin structures along the shoreline. These new stone groins will provide stabilization for a re-nourished sand beach and dune and maintain the protective beach profile. The full details of this summer’s Rockaway beach operations plan can be found on Parks’ dedicated webpage.

This summer NYC Parks will once again install sunscreen dispensers to provide free SPF 30 sun protection at all of its beaches, with dispensers located in or near all beach restrooms.

The Health Department is responsible for beach health and safety surveillance and routine water quality monitoring for all beaches in NYC. The agency regularly tests the water quality near the City’s beaches to make sure it is safe for swimming. When water is polluted from excessive rain runoff, sewage or other pollution, it can pose health risks to swimmers and beachgoers. If necessary, easy-to-read water quality advisory and closure signs will be posted at beaches to ensure that all beachgoers are aware of any health or safety risks.

For more information on Health Department sampling results, water quality information, and to find out if there are any warnings or closures before heading to the beach, the public can visit nyc.gov/health/beach or call 311.

Beachgoers can also sign up for “Know Before You Go,” a free text service in English and Spanish that informs New Yorkers if public beaches are open or closed due to water quality issues.

New Yorkers can text “BEACH” or “PLAYA” to 877877 to get the status of any of the City’s eight public beaches. Beachgoers can also receive text alerts on weather conditions or warnings.

NYC Parks outdoor pools will open on Tuesday, June 28, 2022.

SAFETY TIPS TO FOLLOW WHEN GRILLING: Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer for many New Yorkers, and with it, the start of the grilling season. As New Yorkers get ready to fire up their grills this Memorial Day weekend, the New York State Division of Consumer Protection (DCP) reminds consumers to consider some important safety tips for safe summer barbecues.

“As we are looking to have fun with family and friends, it is important to keep in mind some safety tips that can make our summer activities more enjoyable,” said Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez. “This Memorial Day Weekend marks the beginning of the summer and there is  nothing better than to cook for visitors and relatives to mark the occasion so let’s be proactive and careful by following the tips that will make our gatherings memorable and full of great food and a lot of fun just about all summer long.”

According to statistics from Fire Departments around the United States, there are about 10,600 home grill fires reported annually included around 4,900 fires per year in or on structures. Besides, about 100 deaths due to grill fire injuries are reported and about $135 million in direct property damage per year. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency’s US Fire Administration statistics also reflect that almost half of home grill fires happen between 5-8 p.m. and the majority of home grill fires happen between May and August, the summer months when grills are used more often. Furthermore, 79% of all grill fires are from gas grills

Tips for Using Your Grill Safely:

Before lighting the grill do a safety check.

        Have a fire extinguisher nearby and easily accessible in case of a fire.

        Inspect the hoses on a gas grill for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks. Make sure there are no sharp bends in the hose or tubing and that all connections are secure. Replace if necessary.

        Check for propane gas leaks. Open the gas supply valve fully and apply a soapy solution with a brush at the connection point. If bubbles appear, there is a leak. Try tightening the tank connection. If that does not stop the leak, close the gas valve and have the grill repaired by a qualified professional.

        Make sure the grill is clean. Regularly cleaning the grill, as described in the owner’s manual, and cleaning the grease trap, will reduce the risk of flare-ups and grease fires.

        Make sure the grill is stable and on a level, flat surface. Be sure it doesn’t rock or tip when you open and close the lid. If your grill isn’t set on concrete or pavers, consider investing in a grill mat.

        Always start a gas grill with the lid open. Keeping the lip open while starting the grill allows excess gas to escape. If the lid is closed, the gas can pool under the lid and, when opened, combust suddenly creating a fireball.

        Light charcoal in a charcoal chimney. A charcoal chimney is a safer way of starting a charcoal grill since it doesn’t involve the use of accelerants like lighter fluid.

        Only use grills outside in a well-ventilated area. Never use a grill indoors, in a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, next to your home or under a surface that will burn.

Gas and charcoal grills present a risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning that could result in injury or death. Of the thousands of grill-related injuries reported in hospital emergency departments each year, many are related to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Pay close attention once the grill is lit.

        Never leave a grill unattended. If a flare-up occurs, turn off the gas or spread out the coals to lower the temperature.

        Watch for grease fires. If a grease fire occurs, turn off the gas and use baking soda and/or a fire extinguisher to put out the fire.

        Keep children away from the grill area. The outside surface of a grill can get hot and cause severe burns.

Store your grill and fuel tanks safely.

        Leave charcoal grills outside. Since charcoal produces CO fumes until the charcoal is completely extinguished, do not store a grill indoors with freshly used coals.

        Use caution when storing liquid propane (LP) gas containers. Always keep containers upright. Never store a spare gas container under or near the grill. Never store a full container indoors.

        Transport LP gas containers carefully. Consumers should transport the container in a secure, upright position, and never keep a filled container in a hot car or trunk. Heat will cause the gas pressure to increase, causing the relief valve to open which will allow gas to escape.

Keep food safety in mind.

        Marinate foods in the refrigerator — never on the kitchen counter or outdoors. If you plan to use some of the marinade as a sauce on the cooked food, reserve a portion separately before adding raw meat, poultry, or seafood. Don’t reuse marinade.

        Meat must be cooked to the proper temperature. Germs, such as E. coli and salmonella, can be present in undercooked meats, such as hamburger and chicken. Always check the temperature with a meat thermometer.

        Don’t reuse platters or utensils. Using the same platter or utensils that previously held raw meat, poultry, or seafood allows bacteria from the raw food to spread to the cooked food. Instead, have a clean platter and utensils ready at grill-side to serve your food.

        Keep cold food cold and hot food hot. Keep meat, poultry, seafood, salads, and other cold foods refrigerated until they’re about to be cooked or served. If grilled food is finished cooking but won’t be served right away, keep it hot until served. To prevent bacteria growth, cold food should be kept at 40 °F or below, and hot food should be kept at 140 °F or higher.

        Refrigerate any leftovers immediately! Never leave food at room temperature for more than two hours, or only one hour if the temperature is above 90 °F.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides resources and education materials to consumers on product safety, as well as voluntary mediation services between consumers and businesses. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.

For more consumer protection tips, follow the Division on social media at Twitter: @NYSConsumer and Facebook: www.facebook.com/nysconsumer.

JOHN LIU WILL RUN FOR STATE SENATE IN DISTRICT 16: NYS Senator John C. Liu has decided to run for re-election in the newly drawn Senate District 16, representing Flushing, Bayside, Oakland Gardens and Fresh Meadows.

“It has been an honor and privilege to represent District 11 including the communities of College Point, Whitestone, Bay Terrace, Douglaston, Little Neck, Glen Oaks, Bellerose, Queens Village, Floral Park, Hollis, and Jamaica for the past four years. Now that the courts have redrawn state senate districts such that my house of 29 years is located in District 16, I’ve decided to run in District 16 and look forward to representing and fighting for my constituents in Bayside, Flushing, Fresh Meadows, and Oakland Gardens. Let’s do this.”

Postal Unions: The National Association of Letter Carriers, NY Metro American Postal Workers Union, the National Association of Postal Supervisors, National Postal Mail Handlers Union, and the National Rural Letter Carriers Association endorsed Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney for re-election to represent New Yorkʼs 12th Congressional District.

“NALCʼs 300,000 members are proud to stand with Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney. Under the most challenging of circumstances, she has not wavered in her commitment to protecting the Postal Service network. Time and again, she has stood by letter carriers and we are proud to stand by her,” said Fredric Rolando, National Association of Letter Carriers President.

“To those who depend upon a public Postal Service: small business owners, senior citizens, military veterans, patients who receive medications through the mail and those who vote by mail, this is a crucial time. Assaults on the public Postal Service by would-be privatizers threaten the institution and must be resisted on behalf of postal customers and those who work for the post office. There is no better friend to the public Postal Service than Congressional Representative Carolyn B. Maloney. She leads not only with words but with her actions, The New York Metro Area Postal Union, the largest local in the American Postal Workers Union, wholeheartedly endorses Carolyn B. Maloney for re-election to Congress in the 12th CD,” said Jonathan Smith, NY Metro American Postal Workers Union President.

“Even before Rep. Carolyn Maloney was first elected to Congress, she championed a universal, government-run U.S. Postal Service that provides Americans with high-quality, reliable, and affordable mail service. The congresswomanʼs heroic efforts to shepherd passage of the recently signed-into-law Postal Service Reform Act (H.R. 3076) demonstrates her unassailable legislative skill and unique ability to work across party lines. The National Association of Postal Supervisors was honored to work in partnership with Rep. Maloney to pass the bill, which helps to stabilize the finances and operations of the U.S. Postal Service,” said President Ivan Butts, Executive Vice President Chuck Mulidore and Secretary-Treasurer Jimmy Warden, National Association of Postal Supervisors.

“On behalf of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union, which serves as the exclusive representative for more than 45,000 mail handlers employed by the U.S. Postal Service, and its Local 300, which represents more than 5,000 mail handlers living and working in and around the New York Metropolitan Area, we fully endorse Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney’s re-election as Representative from the 12th Congressional District of New York in the United States House of Representatives in 2022,” said Paul Hogrogian, National Postal Mail Handlers Union President.

“The National Rural Letter Carriersʼ Association (NRLCA) supports Representative Carolyn B. Maloney for re-election. Since her election to Congress in 1992, Rep. Maloney has been a steadfast supporter for rural letter carriers and issues impacting the Postal Service. As Chairwoman of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, she introduced the bipartisan Postal Service Reform Act to help preserve and strengthen the Postal Service and was instrumental in its ultimate passage into law. As part of the Postal Preservation Caucus, she helped ensure that postal stimulus legislation was passed to protect vital USPS services during the COVID pandemic.

“She continues to be a vocal advocate for rural letter carriers, and has consistently sponsored or co-sponsored legislation endorsed by the NRLCA. We thank Rep. Maloney for her support and look forward to working with her in the future,” said Ronnie Stutts, National Rural Letter Carriers Association President.

“I am deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from my postal Union partners,” said Rep. Maloney. “They were all critical allies in passing my landmark legislation which saved the United States Postal Service, and I am honored to have their endorsements and support in my re-election campaign.”

Every East Side Dem Club: Every East Side Democratic Club endorsed Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney for re-election. Lexington Democratic Club, East River Democrats, Four Freedoms Democratic Club, Eleanor Roosevelt Democratic Club, Samuel J. Tilden Democratic Club, and Gramercy Stuyvesant Independent Democrats all endorsed the Congresswoman in her campaign for re-election to represent New Yorkʼs 12th Congressional District.

“The Lexington Democratic Club is proud to endorse Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, a trailblazer who has fought for New York City her entire career and has consistently delivered results to our community. She has an unparalleled track record of accomplishments in Washington and here at home on every issue from transportation infrastructure to providing healthcare for 9/11 first responders. We need her in Congress to keep standing up for New York values, passing more bills than almost anyone like she has her whole career, and working tirelessly to ensure our city gets the funding we deserve from the federal government as we continue our recovery from the coronavirus pandemic,” Jacob Tugendrajch, President, Lexington Democratic Club.

“Carolyn Maloney has been an East Siderʼs best advocate in the halls of Congress and in our community. From the beautification of the East River Esplanade to the successful completion of Phase 1 of the 2nd Avenue Subway (and on to Phase 2), Carolyn is a tireless fighter for all New Yorkers,” said East River Democratic Club.

“Carolyn Maloneyʼs dedication to Manhattanʼs East Side is an outstanding testament to her tenacity and track record of accomplishment. When many of our club members wanted to convert an empty lot on East 78th Street to a public garden, Carolyn was one of the first elected officials standing with us in our fight. Four Freedoms is proud to endorse her in her campaign for reelection,” said Four Freedoms Democratic Club.

“Congress Member Carolyn Maloney has spent nearly three decades in the House fighting for New Yorkers. Whenever we need her, she is there for us and always delivers. Whether it is a big ticket issue like fighting to fully fund the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund, or something as simple as a personal letter of condolence when someone loses a loved one, which I received when my father passed away a decade ago. For these and so many other reasons, I’m on #TeamMaloney all the way,” said Mike Corbett, District Leader, Eleanor Roosevelt Democratic Club.

“Carolyn is a longtime friend of Samuel J. Tilden Democratic Club who has shown up time and time again for our club and communityʼs efforts. She is a dogmatic, pragmatic, and effective legislator whose legislative capabilities are as impressive as her deep knowledge of our community. Because of that, we are proud to endorse her in her campaign for re-election,” said Samuel J. Tilden Democratic Club.

“GSID enthusiastically supports Carolyn Maloney for re-election because when our community calls, she answers. She led 2 successful fights in Stuyvesant Town against big real estate, helped secure the money for the L train repairs after Hurricane Sandy which so many of our club members rely on, and has secured billions for City hospitals including Bellevue Hospital. Carolyn knows us and we know her,” said Gramercy Stuyvesant Independent Democrats.

“I am deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from many of my long time East Side partners in my campaign for re-election,” said Rep. Maloney. “Club members are community leaders who have all impacted my work in Congress, and this backing is a testament to the deep ties we have all created with each other and will continue to foster.”

Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright: Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright endorsed Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney for re-election to represent New Yorkʼs 12th Congressional District. “In this tumultuous time of endangered womenʼs rights, we need strong and proven leaders who will fight to protect reproductive freedom in every way. Congresswoman Maloney continues to be a relentless champion and powerful voice for women and all of her constituents. That is why I am proud to support her re-election to represent New Yorkʼs 12th District,” said New York State Assembly Member Rebecca A. Seawright, 76th District.

“I am deeply grateful for Assembly Member Seawrightʼs support in my campaign for re-election,” said Rep. Maloney. “Over the years, she has been a trusted partner and friend in numerous fights on the Upper East Side including repairing the structural integrity of the East River Esplanade, ensuring residents at Holmes-Isaacs had food and COVID-19 tests throughout the pandemic, and standing up for an individualʼs right to reproductive choice cementing New York State as a safe haven for anyone seeking an abortion.”

ZELDIN HOLDS 23 POINT LEAD OVER GOP PRIMARY FIELD:

NEW YORK – A new statewide survey of 600 likely Republican primary election voters in New York, taken May 24-25, 2022, found Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), the Republican Party and Conservative Party designee for Governor, holding a massive 23 point lead over the field.

“Getting into this race over a year ago, we’ve brought our mission to Save Our State to every corner of New York over and over again, earning the support of everyday New Yorkers who strongly agree that Kathy Hochul has got to go, and balance must be restored to our state capital,” said Congressman Zeldin. “It is physically impossible to outwork me. We have the issues on our side, and clearly the greatest amount of grassroots support. After 7 consecutive wins in purple districts, taking out two incumbent Democrats along the way, we are looking forward to keeping the win streak alive with a big win in the Republican Party primary June 28th, and then again in the general election November 8th, when we send Kathy Hochul packing. To secure our streets, make life more affordable, and save New York, winning is the only option.”

Since 2010, Congressman Zeldin has won 7 consecutive races in purple New York City suburban districts, including a primary by over 20 points despite over $4 million spent against him. He flipped a State Senate seat in 2010 that was held by a Democrat incumbent whose family held office in that area for thirty years and then flipped a House seat in 2014 that was held by a Democrat for the prior twelve years.

McLaughlin & Associates, which has always served as Congressman Zeldin’s pollster with precise, consistent accuracy for every one of his campaigns, completed the statewide survey of 600 likely Republican primary election voters in New York State.

McLaughlin & Associates has decades of experience polling in New York and, in 2021, did the polling for the upset victories of Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and the Conservative Party victories to defeat statewide Propositions 1, 3 and 4.

       On a head-to-head ballot, Zeldin currently leads by 23-points to his next closest potential competitor:

        Hochul has an 84% disapproval rating

        Economic issues are the primary concern at 38% of the total open-ended issue question: taxes 16%, the economy in general 12%, inflation at 8%, cost of living at 2%.

        Crime and safety issues account for 33% of the total as a grouping. “Crime” is the #1 single, stand-alone issue at 19%.

This survey conducted by McLaughlin & Associates was among registered Republicans who are likely primary voters. All respondents have a history of having voted in Republican primary elections, or who are newly registered and self-identify as planning to vote in the June 28th Republican primary election.

This in contrast to other publicly released polls that were based on a less reliable online-panel. Those polls do not correctly screen for likely voters, nor can they verify a history of having voted in past Republican primary elections.

Methodology: This New York Statewide survey of Likely Republican Primary election voters was conducted among 600 likely primary voters between May 24 – May 25, 2022.

A multi-modal approach was employed via live telephone calls and self-administered text messages. The live telephone interviews were conducted by professional interviewers with respondents contacted by both landline phone and cell phone. The text message respondents were sent a personalized invitation to complete the survey on a secure online platform. Interview selection was random and interviews were stratified by county, region, race/ethnicity, age, and gender, to correlate with actual voter turnout from previous even-year Republican primary elections.

Thirty-three percent (33%) of interviews were completed on traditional landlines, 33% were conducted on cell-phones and 33% of interviews were conducted via text message, which linked to a secure online platform.

These samples were then combined and structured to correlate with actual voter turnout in a Republican primary election. This poll of 600 likely Republican primary election voters in New York State has an accuracy of +/- 4.0% at a 95% confidence interval.

BILLS EXPANDING VETERANS’ SERVICES APPROVED: Just ahead of this Memorial Day weekend, Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. joined his Senate Colleagues in approving a package of bills to support the well-being and success of our veteran community. These bills will assist veterans with education, housing, employment, business opportunities and support, while also ensuring they continue to receive the recognition they deserve for their dedication to our country.

“I am proud to represent so many Queens Veterans who are deserving of endless gratitude and ongoing support,” said Addabbo, a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs. “Individuals who serve in the armed forces are prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice to protect their family, friends, and neighbors so we must make every effort to give back to these local heroes,” Addabbo added. “Transitioning from military to civilian life can be overwhelming for many, factor in a combat disability and these Veterans face additional financial hardships as they seek employment. I am always honored to sponsor and co-sponsor legislation that will help ease that transitional burden through well-deserved tax exemptions, housing assistance, Veteran Career Assistance Programs, and more,” Addabbo concluded.

The package of bills passed by the Senate includes:

“Though every day we give thanks to our veterans, Memorial Day is an important opportunity to memorialize those who have served and paid the ultimate sacrifice. By passing these bills we acknowledge that those who volunteer to serve our country should be afforded unique benefits and support in recognition of their service and willingness to go above and beyond for their country,” concluded Addabbo.

INDUCTS INTO NYS SENATE VETS HALL OF FAME: NYS Senator John Liu inducted College Point veteran James (Jim) Black into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame on May, 29th, 2022. The Hall of Fame was established in 2005 to honor and recognize outstanding veterans from the Empire State who have distinguished themselves in both military and civilian life.

Senator John Liu said, “James Black answered our nation’s call and pledged himself to defend our lives at home and our values abroad. We are eternally grateful for his dedicated service, which continues to this day with his involvement in our community and as Commander of the College Point Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 885. On this Memorial Day, I’m proud to induct him into the NYS Senate’s Veterans Hall of Fame. We owe him our deepest gratitude and respect.”

James Black said, “Being inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame is a great privilege and an honor. I’d like to thank Senator Liu for this recognition, and especially all the service men and women of the military who I had the privilege to serve alongside, and those who continue to serve today.”

James Black was drafted into the United States Army in 1970. He achieved the rank of Field Artillery Specialist 4 (SP4) and received an Honorable Discharge in 1972.

Mr. Black grew up in College Point, Queens, the middle child of eight brothers and sisters. He attended St. Fidelis Grammar School and Thomas Edison High School. During his teenage years, he played drums in a band of four with his fellow high school friends. They would play at local and surrounding community events and school dances, in addition to a few summers in upstate New York, at various Catskill Mountain resorts.

After high school, he had planned on starting a career as a long haul truck driver, but he started working locally, right out of high school, for his brother’s manufacturing business in College Point.

Mr. Black grew up in a military family. His father, brother, uncles, and cousins all served in either World War II, Korean War, or Vietnam War. He was drafted in the U.S. Army in June 1970, and wen to basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He had Advanced Individual Training for radio mechanics at Fort Benning, Georgia and trained in Artillery at Fort Sill, Oklahoma prior to shipping to Vietnam on New Year’s Day 1971. He served in Field Artillery Specialist 4 (SP4) for 10 months and returned to the United States at Fort Hood, Texas before his honorable discharge in January 1972.

For his time and service to this nation, James received multiple medals and commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Sharpshooter Rifle.

Upon his discharge, he returned home to College Point and continued working for his brother’s manufacturing business for 32 years.  After his service in the military, James stayed active in the community. He coached Little League and served as the Commodore of Skyline Sportsman Club for 15 years. He has been a proud member of the College Point Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 885 for over 40 years, and has served as the current Commander for the last two years.

He met his wife, Jane, at a school dance; they have been happily married for 47 years.

BP HONORING HEROES: Honoring our heroes in uniform as Memorial Day approached, Borough President Richards on Wednesday, May 25 honored those who served in uniform and made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. The Borough President presented Citations of Honor to Staff Sergeant Catalina Gaviria, First Sergeant Neil Jordan and Staff Sergeant Raymond Ramos — distinguished members of Queensʼ military community.

UNG HOSTS FIRST FLUSHING MEMORIAL DAY OBSERVANCE: Council Member Sandra Ung on Friday hosted the First Annual Flushing Memorial Day Observance in Kissena Park. She was joined by Congresswoman Grace Meng, Assembly Member Nily Rozic, and representatives from various veterans groups.

“I know that Memorial Day weekend is often about backyard barbecues and spending time with friends and family,” said Council Member Sandra Ung. “So, I want to thank everyone who joined us to take time to start the weekend by honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.”

The event was co-sponsored by the Kissena Park Civic Association, Holly Civic Association, Fujian Association, and the Youth Orchestra, which provided live music for the ceremony.

Michael O’Kane, past president of Chapter 32 of the Vietnam Veterans of America, led those gathered in the Pledge of Allegiance, and a representative from the Hindu Temple Society of North America delivered an invocation.

Also present were the Korean Vietnam War Association of New York, Korean War Veterans Association of Greater New York, and the Queensboro Hill Post of the VFW. Cadets from the Francis Lewis High School JROTC led the Presentation of Colors.

“What a beautiful and diverse crowd is here today,” said Congress Member Grace Meng. “As our world becomes full of distractions, it is so important that we still come together to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.”

“As someone who has seen what this community has gone through the last couple of years, it is heartening to see everyone from all walks of life coming together for this Memorial Day in what will hopefully be a tradition for many years to come,” said Assembly Member Nily Rozic.

—With contributions by Annette Hanze Alberts

This column was originated by John A. Toscano

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