Nadler Supports House Resolution Against BDS
Representative Jerrold Nadler (D-Brooklyn, Manhattan) delivered a floor statement yesterday in support of H.Res. 246, a resolution to oppose the Global Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel.
“This Resolution, modeled on legislation passed by the New York City Council, is fully consistent with the First Amendment and affirms the rights of those who support the Global BDS movement to voice their opinions,” said Nadler. “But, importantly, it also puts Congress on record rejecting this misguided and deceptive movement that is neither progressive in its conduct nor pro-peace in its ultimate mission.
“BDS proponents advocate for a complete boycott of Israeli businesses, individuals, and institutions—including academic institutions, which are supposed to be bastions of intellectual freedom—hypocritically seeking to deny all Israeli citizens the same rights and freedoms that BDS supporters claim that they themselves are denied.”
Johnson Applauds Passage of 9/11 VCF Extension
City Council Speaker Corey Johnson (D-Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen) released a statement celebrating the passage of the September 11 Victims Compensation Fund (VCF) extension.
On Tuesday, the Senate passed a bill that would continue compensation payouts to 9/11 first responders until the year 2090. Prior to the bill’s passage, the fund was due to stop taking new claims by 2020.
“Today, the U.S Senate passed a bill to reauthorize the Sept. 11 Victim Compensation Fund, ensuring that all those who are suffering from 9/11-related illnesses get the help they need and deserve,” said Johnson. “The passage of this bill and the relief it brings is long overdue, and will hopefully bring much-needed peace of mind to a group of Americans this country must never forget. I urge President Trump to do the right thing for the first responders and survivors of that dark day and sign this bill into law as soon as possible.”
Brewer/Rosenthal/Johnson’s “Storefront Tracker” Bill Passed
The New York City Council passed a bill on Tuesday creating a database of retail spaces and their vacancy status. The bill, Int. No. 1472, was introduced by Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer (D), City Council Member Helen Rosenthal (D-Central Park, Lincoln Square), and City Council Speaker Corey Johnson (D-Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen).
The bill was formulated in response to an epidemic of empty storefronts in the City, several of which remained empty for years at a time.
“You can’t fix a problem when you can’t even begin to measure it,” said Brewer. “This database will be a boost for business owners looking for possible places to rent, those facing lease negotiations, and countless other possible services, which is why I’m proud the Council voted to pass this bill today. I thank Council Member Rosenthal and Speaker Johnson for their partnership on this legislation.”
