Maloney Testifies in Favor of Raise the Wage Act
Representative Carolyn Maloney (D-Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens) testified in support of the “Raise the Wage” act yesterday.
The bill, which was passed later that day, will gradually hike the minimum wage up to $15 per hour over the next few years.
“The minimum wage has been stuck at $7.25 for the past ten years,” said Maloney. “And during that time, the cost of housing, food childcare and education has risen. But the minimum wage has been stuck. I urge a very strong vote on this, to support the minimum wage, and to get millions of workers the raise they so justly deserve.”
The plan was passed in a 231-199 vote.
Espaillat Vies to Protect Low Income College Bound Students
Representative Adriano Espaillat (D-Washington Heights, Sugar Hill) has co-authored a bill designed to help low income families prepare for college.
The bill, titled the Educational Opportunities and Success Act, prevents the Department of Education from rejecting applications for the federally funded Upward Bound program for clerical errors. Several years ago, grants from the program were rejected because of mistakes that consisted mostly of incorrect margins, the wrong font or lack of double-spacing.
“As an immigrant to this country, I spent my early years as an elementary student learning English as my second language and not wholly versed with the process and transition from secondary education to higher education,” said Espaillat. “I know firsthand the trials and barriers for students – especially immigrant and first generation students in their families – the UPWARD Bound and TRIO programs are a critical resource for underserved students offering the personal support and expert guidance necessary for students to gain admission and successfully complete their higher education. These supports are a proven and worthwhile investment that I am a strong and vocal proponent of and proud to be an original sponsor of the Educational Opportunities and Success Act. I am proud to join colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make sure that these programs are not jeopardized now or in the future.”
Velázquez, Espaillat to Hold Press Conference on ICE Raids
Representatives Nydia Velázquez (D-Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens), Adriano Espaillat (D-Washington Heights, Sugar Hill), Hakeem Jeffries (D-Brooklyn, Queens), Gregory Meeks (D-Nassau County) and Yvette Clarke (D-Flatbush, East Flatbush, Crown Heights) will be holding a press conference on ICE raids this afternoon.
At the conference, the representatives will denounce the recent storm of raids on undocumented immigrants and remind New Yorkers of the rights they’re entitled to should the ICE target them.
The event is slated for today at 2:45 p.m. in Foley Square. It will be livestreamed on Yvette Clarke’s Facebook account.
