Meng Sworn in for Fifth Term in Congress
U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Bayside, Flushing, Forest Hills, Fresh Meadows, Glendale, Kew Gardens, Maspeth, Middle Village, Rego Park) was sworn into her fifth term in the United States House of Representatives on Monday.
“I am honored to return to Washington and represent my constituents’ voices and interests in Congress,” said Meng. “Last year was exceptionally difficult for our community as we faced COVID-19 together. Queens was the epicenter of the epicenter and suffered the brunt of the virus’ consequences. Small businesses suffered immensely; students struggled to learn in a remote learning environment; and many lives were tragically cut short because of the virus. The virus has also disproportionately affected communities of color and frontline workers, especially health care professionals, who have worked nonstop to save people’s lives. There are many unsung heroes who went to work to keep our City running. We are forever grateful for their courage and sacrifices and must commit to making sure their sacrifice was not in vain.”
“As we commence the new 117th Congress, I am ready to immediately get to work to help American workers and families who have struggled and faced such unimaginable pain and loss throughout this pandemic. We must fully stop COVID-19 in its tracks, so that we can finally recover and rebuild our economy, heal our communities, and reconnect with our loved ones,” added Meng. “My core priorities are protecting the safety, health, and livelihoods of my constituents; strengthening our immigrant communities; making sure that no one goes hungry; providing everyone with affordable and accessible internet; and fighting for strong environmental protections that keep our air and water clean. I want to build a future where working families can succeed, while ending injustices and inequalities. I will prioritize legislation and work hard – every second – for that future, because everyone deserves a fighting chance.”
Ramos Joins New Senate Committees
State Senator Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights, Corona, Astoria, Woodside, Elmhurst, East Elmhurst) announced on Monday that she will keep her seats on three Senate committees and will be joining four more.
“Got my marching orders from Super Majority Leader @AndreaSCousins!” she tweeted on Monday.
Ramos will continue as the Chair of the Senate Committee on Labor and will keep her seat on the Transportation and Corporation committees.
She will also be joining the committees on Commerce, New York City Education, Internet and Technology, and Agriculture.
De Blasio Comments on NYPD Protest Response Report
Mayor Bill de Blasio released a statement last week supporting the findings and recommendations of Corporation Counsel James Johnson’s report on the NYPD’s response to the George Floyd protests in New York City.
“There are clear lessons to be learned from the protests this year and a necessary drive to bring about real, transformative changes. We must make improvements immediately, and the reports from the Department of Investigation and the Law Department will help guide the way forward,” said de Blasio. In addition to the 20 recommendations from the DOI report, I fully support the Law Department’s 10 recommendations for the NYPD to better respond to protests, strengthen community engagement and improve officer training.”
In May, the Mayor instructed both the Law Department and the Department of Investigation (DOI) to review the NYPD’s protest response. The independent DOI report was released earlier this month. It’s findings and all 20 recommendations were supported by the Mayor in a video statement.
