STATEMENTS ON THE DEATH OF SERGEANT ANGEL S. RAMPERSAD:
Borough President Donovan Richards Jr.: “Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad is a hero. Plain and simple. No matter what anyone thinks of the ongoing war with Iran, what is not up for debate is the bravery it takes to enlist in our armed forces like Angel did in 2019. Nor is it up for debate how special of a person she was or the courage she showed every day defending all of us back home. Last week, Angel made the ultimate sacrifice, losing her life on a military base in Jordan that came under Iranian missile fire. This week, her community of Ozone Park is rallying around her beautiful family as they grieve their 28-year-old soldier taken from us far too soon. As I told her mother yesterday at their family home on 96th Street, Angel represented the very best of our borough. She was a loving daughter, sister, dog mom, community leader, drummer, singer and star athlete. She was decorated, having received numerous military medals. She was an immigrant who loved this country so much that she was willing to die to protect it. The legacy of selflessness and sacrifice she leaves behind will live on forever here in Ozone Park and across Queens. May Angel’s memory and the memories of the other 17 American servicemembers lost in this war never be forgotten.”
Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar: “On July 17th, one of our own—a beloved daughter of Ozone Park—was killed in an Iranian missile strike while bravely serving our nation in the Middle East. Sgt. Angel S. Rampersad, 28, was serving at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan when it came under enemy attack. She answered America’s call with courage, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to defending our nation and the freedoms we hold dear. Sgt. Rampersad embodied the very best of the United States Army and of our country. She served far from home, stood in harm’s way, and carried out her duty with honor. Her service and sacrifice will never be forgotten by Ozone Park, Queens, New York City, or a grateful nation. We have a sacred obligation to honor those who wear our nation’s uniform and the families who serve and sacrifice alongside them. As a member of the New York State Assembly Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, my commitment is to honor the courage and sacrifice of those who serve and stand with the families who bear that sacrifice alongside them. I stand shoulder to shoulder with her family, especially her parents, Basdeo and Carol, and with all who love her during this unimaginable loss.”
Rep. Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY-05) issued the following statement on the tragic passing of Sergeant Angel S. Rampersad, a constituent of New York’s 5th Congressional District and member of the United States Armed Forces: “Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Sergeant Angel Rampersad, who was a courageous member of our armed forces, beloved daughter, and cherished community member,” said Congressman Gregory Meeks. “I was saddened to learn of her tragic passing while answering the call to serve our nation. We will always remember Sergeant Rampersad’s dedication, courage, and lasting legacy of service she leaves behind. While no words can ease the pain of this profound loss, my heart and deepest condolences go out to her loved ones during this unimaginable time. Let us all keep Sergeant Rampersad’s family and friends in our hearts and prayers as they grapple with the days ahead. May she rest in peace.”
Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani released the following statement: “We mourn the loss of Sgt. Angel Rampersad, an Ozone Park native who was killed at a military base in Jordan while serving our country. Sgt. Rampersad’s courage and sacrifice will be remembered not just in Queens, but across all five boroughs. My deepest condolences are with her family, loved ones, and all those grieving this profound loss. For so many New Yorkers, wars overseas are never distant—they are felt here at home. The sacrifices made by service members and their families are a constant reminder of this. We are forever grateful for their service and will work every day to honor it.”
Governor Kathy Hochul: “Today, New York mourns the loss of one of our own, Sgt. Angel S. Rampersad of Ozone Park, who is believed to have been killed in action while serving our nation on July 17. My heart is with her family, loved ones and the soldiers who stood beside her as they grieve this unimaginable loss. Sgt. Rampersad lived a life of courage and selflessness. New York, and our nation, are safer because of brave Americans like her who answer the call to serve. May we honor her memory, remember her sacrifice and keep all who loved her in our prayers.”
U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement on the death of Sergeant Angel S. Rampersad, 28, of Ozone Park. Sergeant Rampersad is believed to have lost her life during an Iranian attack at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan. To honor Sergeant Rampersad’s service, Senator Gillibrand will request that flags be flown at half-mast over the Capitol tomorrow. “All New Yorkers mourn the tragic loss of Sergeant Angel Rampersad, who bravely served our nation. My prayers are with her family, loved ones, and unit during this time of profound grief. May her selfless service to our country and her enduring memory never be forgotten.”
QBP RICHARDS APPOINTS CONSTANTINIDES TO PEP:
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. today announced his appointment of longtime Western Queens community leader and youth empowerment advocate Costa Constantinides to the New York City Panel for Educational Policy (PEP). As a member of the PEP, Mr. Constantinides will help the panel make significant decisions regarding the City’s public school system. The PEP votes on the Chancellor’s proposed education policies (including school co-locations and closings), proposed DOE contracts over $1 million and the Citywide school budget. The PEP also advises the Chancellor on general matters affecting the school system and its students.
“From his historic tenure in the City Council to his stellar stewardship of the Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens, there has been no greater advocate for the children and families of Western Queens than Costa Constantinides,” said Borough President Richards. “As he joins the PEP at such a critical time for our city’s education system, I look forward to Costa’s steadfast dedication in fighting for stronger schools across The World’s Borough. I am deeply grateful not only for Costa’s clear-eyed leadership, but his years of friendship as well.”
“I am honored to be appointed by Borough President Richards to the Panel for Education Policy. The foundation of our future lies in how we educate our youth and build for the generations to come,” said Costa Constantinides. “As a student of New York City public schools myself and the son of a former head of the District 30 PTAs President Council in the 1980s, I share the Borough President’s strong commitment to a good education for every student. I am excited to get to work alongside so many other great leaders on this panel as part of the PEP.”
An Astoria native, Mr. Constantinides has decades of experience advocating for Queens students and investing in the borough’s public school system. Since 2021, he has served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens — one of the largest youth-focused community centers in New York City that serves more than 5,000 young people per year.
Prior to his tenure at the Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens, Mr. Constantinides served as the City Councilmember for the 22nd Council District from 2014 to 2021, representing parts of Astoria, East Elmhurst and Woodside. In the City Council, he led the Committee on Environmental Protection, shepherding the landmark Climate Mobilization Act — the world’s largest carbon emissions reduction ever mandated by a city — among other critical sustainability and resiliency measures. He also invested millions of dollars into Western Queens’ schools and parks, including a $30 million overhaul of Astoria Park.
Mr. Constantinides’ term lasts for one year and officially begins this month. He succeeds Shirley Aubin, Borough President Richards’ prior appointment to the PEP, whose term on the panel concluded last month.
BRAUNSTEIN ANNOUNCES BAYSIDE URGENT-NEED BLOOD DRIVE:
Assemblyman Edward C. Braunstein (D-Bayside) is sponsoring his 14th Annual Summer Blood Drive, organized in conjunction with the New York Blood Center. The blood drive will take place on Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 1-7 p.m., at the Bay Terrace Shopping Center at 211-49 26th Avenue (the storefront between Foot Locker and Dancing Dreams). All donors will be entered into a sweepstakes with a chance to win a four pack of New York Islanders tickets, provided by the New York Blood Center.
“A single blood donation is a gift that can save up to three lives,” said Assemblyman Edward Braunstein. “Each year, I’m proud to partner with the New York Blood Center and Cord Meyer Development to host a summer blood drive in the community. Please take the time to donate by visiting our drive on August 6th or to tell a friend or family member about the event.” Advanced appointments are encouraged. To sign up, visit: www.tinyurl.com/BraunsteinDrive2026, or contact Assemblyman Braunstein’s office by phone at 718-357-3588, or by email at braunsteine@nyassembly.gov. For medical questions concerning blood donations, please call the New York Blood Center’s Special Donor Services at 1-800-688-0900.
RALLY URGING CITY COUNCIL TO ADOPT EXPANDED J-51 PROGRAM:
Co-op and Condos United of New York (CCU), a coalition of co-op and condo owners from across the five boroughs that represents the interests of the more than one million New York homeowners who live in this type of housing, hosted a rally at the Bell Park Manor Terrace Co-op in Queens today to urge City Council to adopt the expanded J-51 program approved by the State Legislature. The rally was also held to bring attention to other unfunded mandates, such as Local Laws 97, rising taxes and other policy issues, that are actively threatening the affordability of the essential housing stock.
In June, under the leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, the State Legislature renewed and expanded New York City’s J-51 program as part of the enacted New York State budget for FY 2027. The program was renewed for ten years, and the average assessed value eligibility threshold was raised from $45,000 to $60,000. The eligibility threshold will increase annually based on changes to the consumer price index. The new version of the program also allows co-ops to use the abatement to cover the J-51 application fees. These positive changes will ensure that more middle class co-ops can apply for this vital tax relief to support capital repairs. An estimated 1,500 co-op and condo properties citywide are newly eligible.
“You have my commitment that I will continue fighting to protect affordable homeownership, defend our cooperative communities, and ensure that government policies strengthen—not weaken—the neighborhoods that so many families proudly call home,” said US Congress Member Tom Suozzi.
“Co-op and condo residents are facing mounting financial pressures as the cost of living continues to rise, and the City must take action to help preserve affordable homeownership,” said Council Member Linda Lee, Chair of the Committee on Finance. “For generations, co-ops and condos have provided a dependable path to affordable homeownership. But the combination of costly Local Law 97 compliance penalties and today’s affordability crisis is placing an unsustainable burden on families.
The rally featured the voices of co-op leaders and residents from across the City and elected officials, including New York State Senator Toby Stavisky (Senate District 11); Assembly Member Ed Braunstein (Assembly District 26); Assembly Member David Weprin (Assembly District 24); Councilmember Linda Lee (District 23) and Councilmember Vickie Paladino (District 19). These dignitaries came together to express support for the expanded J-51 program while also discussing the affordability crisis currently blighting the cooperative housing community, which serves as one of the last attainable paths to homeownership for the middle class.
NEW TREES IN DISTRICT 26:
Council Member Julie Won issued a statement on over 1,857 new trees planted in District 26. “We were able to plant so many trees through our office’s advocacy and funding. Trees combat climate change and purify the air, cool our streets, and are great, green ways to combat flooding. Earlier this week, I voted to advance a NYC Parks proposal to acquire 37 privately-owned sites across CD2 for future parks. Our district, covering LIC, Sunnyside, and Woodside, ranks 57th out of 59 community districts citywide for parkland. Sunnyside needs 128 more acres and Woodside needs 122 to meet the City’s own standard. With 40,000 new residents expected over the next decade from the OneLIC Neighborhood Plan alone, that gap will only widen.”
BATTERY BATTLE CHARGES UP:
New York Assemblymember Claire Valdez ramped up New York City’s ongoing battery battle yesterday, calling on Governor Kathy Hochul to oppose Con Edison’s controversial battery moratorium and support bringing battery storage onto the grid in New York City.
Assembly Member Valdez’s letter reads: “A few weeks ago, when we were experiencing hundred-degree heat, Con Edison shut off power to 9,800 customers in Queens. That is completely unacceptable. It is also avoidable. Battery storage is a technology that can lower our bills and stabilize the grid during times of high demand. But right now, Con Edison is demanding 30 to 40 times the amount of money they normally charge for batteries to connect to the grid. This has resulted in a de facto moratorium on new battery storage projects being built in the city, in precisely the areas that would benefit most from the lower bills and more reliable service that batteries could bring. As a representative for people who experienced power shutoffs during the worst heat of the summer, I am urging you to stand with us and call on Con Edison to allow more battery storage technology onto the grid.”
Utility customers celebrated Assembly Member Valdez’s letter and reiterated their call for Governor Hochul to intervene in the fight with Con Edison. “Heat waves are dangerous, but they’re also extremely expensive for utility customers, and installing a lot of batteries can help keep costs reasonable even on the hottest summer days,” said Patrick Robbins, Director of the Utility Customers Association. “Con Ed isn’t standing up for utility customers, so we need Governor Hochul to step in and protect the millions of New Yorkers who are struggling to pay their Con Ed bills.”
MENG APPLAUDS MAMDANI’S EXPANSION OF THE BUREAU OF COASTAL RESILIENCE:
After Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the expansion of the New York City Bureau of Coastal Resilience, Representative Grace Meng released the following statement: “This is exactly the kind of bold, serious investment our city needs, and the timing could not be more urgent. Last weekend, families across Queens were once again dealing with flooded homes and streets turned into rivers. Residents are tired of hearing that help is coming after every flood. They deserve action, and today the Mayor delivered it for the people of Willets Point, Flushing Bay, and New Yorkers across our city. “For years, I’ve fought to bring desperately needed resources to Queens to address this crisis. I’m proud to have secured a nearly $190 million authorization in the Water Resources Development Act to upgrade infrastructure and stormwater management across Queens. My office has directed millions of dollars toward local cloudburst management systems in our neighborhoods to help absorb and store stormwater before it can damage homes and businesses. But federal investment alone cannot solve this problem. It takes partnership at every level of government, and that is exactly what this expansion represents. Nearly a fifth of New Yorkers live in flood-prone areas, and many of them are my constituents in Queens. I want to thank Mayor Mamdani for stepping up with this expansion and look forward to working hand-in-hand with his administration to make sure it delivers real results for the people of Queens.”
BILL TO HELP DISABLED VETERANS MODIFY THEIR HOMES:
NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., a member of the Senate Veterans, Homeland Security, and Military Affairs Committee, announced that legislation he co-sponsored to help ease the financial burden on disabled veterans received final approval from both the New York State Senate and Assembly and now awaits the Governor’s signature to become law. The legislation, S.10398-A, known as the Disabled Veteran Home Modification Act, authorizes cities, towns, and villages across New York State to waive or reduce building permit fees for service-connected disabled veterans who need to make accessibility modifications to their homes.
Addabbo stated, “Our veterans have already paid an immeasurable price in service to our nation. They shouldn’t face additional financial hardship when making their homes safer and more accessible because of injuries sustained while serving our country. Whether it’s installing a wheelchair ramp, widening doorways, or making other necessary modifications, these improvements are not luxuries; they are necessities that allow veterans to live independently with dignity. This legislation is one small but meaningful way we can help remove unnecessary barriers.”
Veterans with service-connected disabilities often face significant expense when retrofitting their homes to accommodate mobility challenges or other permanent disabilities. In addition to construction expenses, local building permit fees, inspections, plan reviews, and related costs can add thousands of dollars to these projects. If signed into law, municipalities would have the option to exempt or reduce these fees for eligible disabled veterans, providing meaningful financial relief while supporting their ability to remain safely in their homes.
“New York has a responsibility to support the men and women who have sacrificed so much in defense of our freedoms,” Addabbo added. “I am proud to cosponsor this important legislation, and grateful my Senate and Assembly colleagues recognize its value, and I respectfully urge Governor Hochul to sign this bill into law so disabled veterans can benefit from this common-sense measure.” The law would take effect on December 1 should the Governor sign and enact the bill into law.
FLUSHING TOWN HALL RECEIVES GRANT:
Flushing Town Hall (FTH) announced that it has received a $525,000, two-year grant from a private charitable foundation to expand its GO Queens Grant program, which provides direct funding to Queens-based performing arts and culture organizations.
The GO Queens Grant was launched in 2024 with support from the Howard Gilman Foundation, providing 25 annual $10,000 general operating grants to performing arts nonprofits across the borough. Over two grant cycles, the program made clear that Queens’ performing arts ecosystem needs even further support. With the new funding, GO Queens grants will build on the groundwork provided by Howard Gilman Foundation, and awards will move from a one- to a two-year funding cycle for eligible organizations, with $20,000 in total award funding available to awardees. The funds will support Queens-based arts and culture nonprofits with annual operating budgets under $250,000 for whom the performing arts are a core focus. Combined funding from both foundations will enable FTH to expand from 25 to 46 grantees. These two-year awards will give organizations the runway to plan ahead, deepen their programs, and build long-term sustainability.
Says FTH’s Executive & Artistic Director Ellen Kodadek, “Flushing Town Hall was founded in 1979 as an arts council for Queens, and supporting the borough’s artists and arts organizations has always been at the heart of what we do. The GO Queens Grant is one of our most direct expressions of that commitment—allowing FTH to put unrestricted resources into the hands of the small performing arts organizations that are the lifeblood of communities across the borough. This extraordinary new investment means we can reach nearly twice as many organizations as before. For so many of these groups, this funding is transformative. We are deeply grateful, and we look forward to seeing what Queens’s artists do with this largesse.”
Applications for the new two-year grant cycle will open in September 2026. Selected organizations will receive their first year of funding in Spring 2027, with a mid-cycle interim report due in December 2027 and second-year funding disbursed by January 2028.
EEAP CAN HELP WITH HIGHER SUMMER ENERGY COSTS:
As temperatures rise, so does the use of air conditioning. Using more electricity during hot weather leads to higher monthly bills. Con Edison encourages customers to check their eligibility for the new Enhanced Energy Assistance Program (EEAP). More than 20,000 customers have already applied and are receiving discounts of up to $168 on their monthly energy bills. EEAP discounts are based on income and household size with the aim of maintaining energy affordability so that customer bills do not exceed 6 percent of household area median income.
Applying is fast and easy. Customers can apply online by submitting proof of income for the past month in the form of paystubs, Social Security, or pension statements. Once approved, customers are enrolled for 18 months. “We’re New Yorkers too, so we understand how rising costs for everything from groceries and gas to rent and healthcare affect households. We know energy affordability matters more than ever,” said Michael Murphy, Con Edison’s vice president of Customer Operations. “If you’re having trouble paying your bill, reach out to us as soon as you can. From assistance programs that automatically provide discounts, to tools that can help customers manage their usage, to helpful billing options, we are here to help.”
Higher demand can also affect supply costs. During periods of high usage, the supply portion of your bill may increase. The company works proactively to manage these seasonal supply challenges and help limit sudden cost swings whenever possible.
Con Edison’s website (conEd.com) offers customers information including:
Energy saving tips. The best way for customers to manage their bills is to manage their usage.
Payment assistance options, including budget billing, which smooths a customer’s costs out and helps limit seasonal spikes, and payment plans for those who have fallen behind.
The My Account page where customers can track their usage.
RAJKUMAR TO BRING OMNY CARD VAN TO S QUEENS:
Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar announced that she is bringing the MTA’s OMNY Card Van directly to South Queens on Thursday, July 30, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at her District Office, 83-91 Woodhaven Boulevard. Experts will be on hand for one-on-one assistance with Reduced-Fare card applications, signing up for the new OMNY card, transferring value from MetroCards, adding money to the OMNY card, and resolving any OMNY-related issues.
Assemblywoman Rajkumar said, “Bringing the OMNY Card Van to our district means bringing government directly to the people and making it easier for every resident to access the affordable transit they depend on. Whether commuting to work, getting to a doctor’s appointment, attending school, or visiting loved ones, New Yorkers deserve a transit system that works for them. I will continue fighting to make public transportation safer, more affordable, and more accessible for every family in South Queens.”
MENG THANKS SBA:
U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) visited the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Queens where she thanked agency personnel for the work they have done to assist local residents and businesses impacted by flooding that occurred in the borough this past May. Meng’s congressional committee, the House Appropriations Committee, funds the SBA, and all other federal government agencies, which includes resources to help bring this type of assistance to the borough.
SBA personnel at this temporary, two-week site at Council Member Linda Lee’s office in Oakland Gardens, answered questions and helped individuals apply for low interest disaster loans available to homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits. “Queens deserves relief for the damage sustained from excessive flooding and I thank the SBA for working to help those in our borough who have been affected,” said Congresswoman Meng.
“The U.S. Small Business Administration and its Office of Disaster Recovery continues to maintain a presence in Queens due to severe weather and flooding that occurred on May 20,” said SBA Atlantic Regional Administrator Matt Coleman, who oversees that federal agency’s operations throughout New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
“Over the past several years, our communities have experienced the devastating impacts of stormwater flooding, and I am proud to have partnered with the SBA and Congresswoman Meng to help deliver critical relief to affected homeowners and businesses,” said Council Member Lee. “These events highlight the urgent need for infrastructure investments that strengthen our city’s resilience against flooding. I remain committed to working alongside my State and Federal partners to protect our communities and mitigate the effects of these severe storms.”
ADDABBO ANNOUNCES NEW LAW TO PROVIDE ADDTL TIME TO IMPLEMENT CLASS SIZE REDUCTIONS:
State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., a member of the NYS Senate Education Committee, announced that legislation he co-sponsored to provide New York City public schools with additional time to implement mandated class size reductions has been signed into law. The measure, S.10615, became law on June 26, 2026, and extends the deadline for New York City to fully comply with the state’s class size reduction requirements from September 2028 to September 2030.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to learn in a classroom where they receive the attention and support they need to succeed,” said Addabbo. “Smaller class sizes remain an important element of a quality education, but achieving that goal requires thoughtful, rational planning, adequate classroom space, and the ability to recruit and retain qualified educators. This legislation provides New York City with additional time to implement these requirements responsibly while remaining committed to improving educational outcomes for students.”
The law amends the Contracts for Excellence provisions governing New York City schools, allowing the Department of Education two additional years to implement the class-size reduction plan. The legislation maintains the existing class size targets while providing a more practical timeline for compliance.
MENG AND FITZPATRICK INTRODUCE BILL TO END STOLEN SNAP BENEFITS:
U.S. Reps. Grace Meng (D-NY) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) announced the introduction of their Ending Stolen SNAP Benefits Act (H.R.9359), a bipartisan bill that would make sure Americans don’t go hungry through no fault of their own by helping states upgrading their EBT card security and allowing the federal government to reissue stolen SNAP benefits.
This legislation was introduced in response to the rise in SNAP theft taking place across the country. The stealing of SNAP benefits is a nationwide problem. Criminals steal benefits through a practice known as “skimming,” where devices placed at checkout terminals capture EBT card numbers and PINs, allowing thieves to drain accounts. Because many EBT cards lack modern security features found in credit cards, like chips, they are especially vulnerable.
In response to skimming, states including New York, Oklahoma, and California have begun issuing new EBT cards with upgraded security measures. California reported an 83% reduction in EBT benefits theft as a result. However, upgrading EBT cards is expensive. The Ending Stolen SNAP Benefits Act will help states cover certain administrative costs associated with EBT card upgrades, getting more secure EBT cards to more beneficiaries more quickly, reducing stolen benefits and ensuring Americans don’t go hungry through no fault of their own.
The Ending Stolen SNAP Benefits Act would create a permanent federal solution by:
Providing new authority for the federal government to reissue stolen SNAP benefits.
Providing federal cost-share dollars to help states upgrade to secure EBT cards with chip technology.
Increasing accountability by requiring reporting to Congress on progress, challenges, and the total value of benefits replaced.
“SNAP is a lifeline for thousands of New Yorkers and millions of people nationwide, and stealing these benefits from hungry families is unacceptable,” said Congresswoman Meng. “I’ve helped thousands of New Yorkers recover millions in stolen SNAP benefits, but scammers are still targeting our communities. This bill creates a lasting federal fix to replace stolen benefits and strengthen EBT card security. I’m proud to work across the aisle, so no one who depends on SNAP to put food on the table goes hungry because their benefits were stolen by criminals.”
BLAKEMAN ON HOCHUL LAWSUIT:
“Only Kathy Hochul could look at New Yorkers paying the highest electric bills in the country and decide the real crisis is the people trying to lower them. When fed-up ratepayers took the Hochul Administration to court to block inflated utility rates, Hochul didn’t look for ways to lower costs. Instead, she sicced state lawyers on them to protect higher prices. Think about how insane that is: You pay the highest taxes in the nation, you pay outrageous electric bills because Kathy Hochul hiked utility rates 48 times, and then Hochul uses your own tax dollars to make sure your power bill stays sky-high. New Yorkers are opening monthly power bills that look like mortgage payments while Kathy Hochul celebrates winning a victory for higher prices. When I am Governor, this state-sponsored extortion ends. I will cut your utility bill in half and make New York affordable,” Nassau County Executive and candidate for Governor of New York Bruce Blakeman said as the Hochul Administration moved to dismiss Lemondes, et al. v Hochul, et al., blocking reduced utility rates for New Yorkers.
GILLIBRAND, DURBIN INTRODUCE IMMIGRATION BILLS:
U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced two bills to reform America’s broken immigration system.
The Protection of Kids in Immigrant Detention (PROKID) Act would provide a new, stronger layer of oversight to protect immigrant children in government custody. The Real Courts, Rule of Law Act would decrease political influence in the immigration system by transitioning the immigration court system into an independent judiciary.
“For far too long, cruelty, politicization, and a lack of transparency have defined our immigration system. It’s time to make commonsense reforms,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The PROKID Act would establish essential accountability measures to make sure that children seeking safety are treated with the compassion they deserve. At the same time, the Real Courts, Rule of Law Act would insulate our immigration courts from political influence, restoring integrity and due process to the system. These bills are meaningful, long-term solutions to complex challenges, and I will do everything I can to get them passed.”
To provide stronger oversight and protect children in custody, the PROKID Act would codify an office under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) responsible for ensuring that immigrant children are detained in the least restrictive setting, advocating for quick and safe release, and encouraging family reunification when possible. That office would also be responsible for investigating any claims of abuse, neglect, or mistreatment of immigrant children while in either government custody or foster care.
Another persistent issue with America’s immigration system is the politicization of immigration judges. Currently, immigration judges are appointed by the U.S. Attorney General and employed by the Department of Justice, meaning they are often charged with adjudicating cases in accordance with the policies and priorities of the governing administration. To solve these problems, the Real Courts, Rule of Law Act would establish an independent immigration court system, helping to ensure that immigration judges are free from political pressure and can deliver just decisions in accordance with the law.
GILLIBRAND, SCOTT APPLAUD COMMITTEE PASSAGE OF CLEAR LABELS ACT:
U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), ranking member of the Senate Aging Committee, and Aging Committee Chairman Rick Scott (R-FL) announced committee passage of their Consumer Labeling for Enhanced API Reporting and Legitimate Accountability for Base Entity Listings (CLEAR LABELS) Act. This bill would add country of origin labeling requirements to the U.S. prescription drug supply chain.
“Americans deserve to know where their prescription drugs are manufactured so they can make informed health care decisions,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The CLEAR LABELS Act would make this information readily accessible to patients, pharmacists, purchasers, and providers while strengthening accountability throughout the supply chain. I am grateful for Chairman Scott’s partnership on this crucial piece of legislation, and I am thrilled that it just passed out of the Senate HELP Committee. I will not stop fighting until this bill is passed by the full Congress and signed into law.”
“Today’s passage of the CLEAR LABELS Act in the U.S. Senate HELP Committee is a massive win for consumer safety and transparency, and America’s national security,” said Senator Scott. “Through more than a half dozen hearings and our investigative report, the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging has exposed the dangers posed by foreign generic drugs, especially those made in Communist China and India. Our work has shown the urgent need for reforms to ensure Americans know where their drugs are made so they can be confident that their medications are safe for themselves and their families. I want to thank Ranking Member Gillibrand for leading this important legislation with me, and HELP Chairman Bill Cassidy and Ranking Member Bernie Sanders for their partnership to secure committee passage of this good bill. We cannot be depended on an evil foreign adversary for medications that our seniors, our military, and millions of Americans rely on. I look forward to passing this bill in the Senate and House of Representatives, so President Trump can sign it into law as soon as possible.”
The CLEAR LABELS Act passed out of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee with a bipartisan vote of 21-1. It now heads to the full Senate for final passage from the chamber.
Many prescription drugs, and their active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), are manufactured overseas, particularly in China and India. However, current federal labeling requirements do not require public disclosure of where those ingredients or finished products are made. As a result, patients, pharmacists, and healthcare providers lack visibility into the origins of their medications. Transparency is the first step in determining vulnerabilities in the drug supply chain to prevent threats to the availability of safe and effective medications for American patients. The CLEAR LABELS Act would require prescription drug labels to disclose the original manufacturers of prescription drugs and APIs to ensure patients, providers, and regulators have clear, upfront information about where the drugs they rely on day after day are made.
AG JAMES HALTS PARAMOUNT’S MERGER WITH WARNER BROS.:
New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 11 other attorneys general today secured a months-long halt to Paramount Skydance Corp.’s (Paramount) $110 billion takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. (Warner Bros.). On July 13, Attorney General James and the coalition sued Paramount and Warner Bros., alleging that their merger would illegally reduce competition throughout the film and television industries, harming workers, consumers, and businesses. Attorney General James and the coalition today secured a stipulation from Paramount and Warner Bros. that will delay the merger until after a court ruling on the merits of the lawsuit or June 1, 2027, whichever is earlier.
“From the workers and artists who bring stories to life to the families who buy tickets at the box office, Paramount’s illegal takeover of Warner Bros. is a bad deal for all those who count on a competitive entertainment industry,” said Attorney General James. “Halting this merger while our case proceeds is a critical victory in our efforts to uphold the law and protect the film and television industries. I look forward to continuing our case to stop this illegal merger.”
On July 20, Attorney General James and the coalition won a temporary restraining order preventing Paramount and Warner Bros. from carrying out their merger. Under the stipulation announced today, Paramount and Warner Bros. will continue to remain separate companies until five days after the court’s decision on the merits of the case or June 1, 2027, whichever comes earlier.
*** CRIME BLOTTER ***
DRIVER CHARGED WITH MANSLAUGHTER:
Defendant Allegedly Swerved Around Bus and Struck Victim in Restricted Roadway; Faces more than 15 Years in Prison, if Convicted
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Daruis Adams was arraigned on an indictment charging him with manslaughter, assault, leaving the scene and other crimes for the death of Suzanne Schmieder, a Queens resident who was crossing Jamaica Avenue in March. Adams is alleged to have sped away after the crash and hours later called police to report his own medical episode.
District Attorney Katz said: “As alleged, Darius Adams recklessly swerved around a bus in a restricted roadway and struck Suzanne Schmieder, causing her to fly into the air before slamming into the ground and sliding underneath a parked car. The defendant then took off. Thank you to my Vehicular Homicide Unit for its investigation into this case. My heart goes out to the victim’s family and we hope to bring them justice in our courts.”
Adams, 28, who was living in the Bronx, was arraigned today on an indictment charging him with manslaughter in the second degree, assault in the second degree, leaving the scene of an incident without reporting, criminally negligent homicide, reckless endangerment in the second degree, reckless driving and unsafe lane change on a roadway laned for traffic before Queens Supreme Court Justice Ira Margulis. Adams, who was remanded, is to appear before Judge Michael Hartofilis on August 13. Adams faces more than 15 years in prison, if convicted.
DA Katz said that, according to the charges and investigation, on March 11, 2026, at approximately 3:04 p.m., Adams, was driving a 2001 Lincoln LS sedan westbound on Jamaica Avenue in the vicinity of Parsons Boulevard. That roadway is restricted to buses only between the hours of 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. An MTA bus, which was properly in the roadway, had stopped to permit Suzanne Schmieder, 58, to cross the street. Adams allegedly swerved around the bus and hit Schmieder, who was thrown into the air before falling to the ground and sliding under a parked car. After striking Schmieder, Adams allegedly fled the location without rendering aid or calling 911. The victim was taken to a local hospital and pronounced deceased less than an hour after the collision.
At approximately 11 p.m. that night, Adams called 911 to report that he was having a medical episode. He was standing on the sidewalk in the vicinity of the parked Lincoln and directed police to his identification inside the car. The car allegedly had front end damage, a broken side mirror and scratches to the hood. During the search of the interior, officers found multiple liquor bottles. Fingerprint testing showed the prints belonged to the defendant.
QUEENS MAN CHARGED WITH MULTIPLE BURGLARIES:
Defendant Took Advantage of Unlocked Doors or Used Screwdriver to Pry Open Entry to Office Buildings; Took Cash and Credit Cards
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Aaron McKelvey was charged in connection with seven burglaries and one attempted burglary at commercial buildings in Long Island City, Woodside, Maspeth and Jamaica in May and June. The defendant allegedly wandered through office spaces and, in some cases, rummaged through desks to take cash and credit cards.
District Attorney Katz said: “As alleged, this defendant thought he could enter private office buildings and help himself to cash and other items. He brazenly carried out three of the alleged burglaries in just one day. Workers deserve to feel secure in their offices without fear of intruders. We thank our partners at the NYPD for their work on this case.”
McKelvey, 30, of Jamaica, was arraigned Friday on an indictment charging him with five counts of burglary in the third degree and one count of petit larceny. Queens Supreme Court Justice Frances Wang ordered him to return to court August 27. He was arraigned earlier this month on three criminal complaints charging him with two counts of burglary in the third degree, criminal possession of a forged instrument in the second degree, petit larceny and attempted burglary in the third degree. McKelvey is facing 3 ½ to seven years in prison on each burglary count, if convicted.
DA Katz said, according to the charges and investigation, on May 13, at approximately 8:25 p.m., McKelvey pried open the front door to Borenstein Catering in Jamaica. He was confronted by a security guard and left without incident. Less than two weeks later, on May 26, at approximately 6:30 p.m., the defendant allegedly entered an unoccupied office building on 44th Avenue in Long Island City through an unlocked back door where he wandered around for 20 minutes before leaving. On June 1, at approximately 8 p.m., McKelvey allegedly entered a satellite office of NBC News in Long Island City through an unlocked door and left with a sum of international currency. On June 16, beginning at approximately 4 a.m., McKelvey allegedly entered three office buildings within blocks of one another in Long Island City, rifling through desk drawers and taking two credit cards and a flashlight from one of the offices. Two days later, on June 18, at approximately 2:20 p.m., McKelvey allegedly entered the office of Smart Haven Lifestyle in Woodside but was confronted by a security guard and left without incident. Between approximately 7:05 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. that evening, he allegedly used a screwdriver to pry open the front door of the Penava Mechanical Corp. in Maspeth and once inside attempted to open mail left on a desk. He was confronted by a worker inside the building.
McKelvey was apprehended on July 7 in Brooklyn.
—With contributions by Augusta Luger
This column was originated by John A. Toscano.