Despite these wins, I voted against this bill because I simply cannot ignore the devastating rate of poverty in my district. With nearly 18% of all households in NY-24 dependent on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), I could not look past the provisions in this bill which would alter this program significantly and result in a crushing blow to the thousands of individuals and families in our community working to raise themselves out of poverty. We cannot give the most vulnerable members of our community yet another disadvantage.

This is the beginning of the process, not the end.  While the bill failed to pass through this chamber, I am hopeful that both sides can come together to bring a bill to the President’s desk that will both strengthen our region’s farming communities and ensure that those who rely on SNAP are able to feed their families and work towards a better life.

This week is National Police Week, a time to remember and honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. As a former federal prosecutor, I worked alongside members of our law enforcement for nearly two decades. I remain forever grateful for the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice to keep the public safe. Thank you for the long hours, for charging into danger, and for continuing to serve and protect our communities.

I was fortunate to welcome members of the Syracuse Police Department to the Capitol in recognition of National Police Week.

The dangerous nuclear deal put in place with Iran by the last Administration handed out billions in sanction relief while allowing Iran, the largest state sponsor of terrorism in the world, to continue its path towards a nuclear weapon. This agreement, which faced widespread scrutiny and opposition from both sides of the aisle, gave far too many concessions to Iran without providing safeguards for our country and our allies in the region.

The President’s recent decision to withdraw from this flawed deal and re-impose lifted sanctions is an enormous step forward in prioritizing our national security. We must now work with our allies to put economic pressure on Iran and ensure the regime renounces its nuclear arms ambitions. 

May marks Mental Health Awareness month in our country. Every child in America, regardless of ZIP code or socioeconomic status, must be provided the mental health services he or she needs. Recently, the Congressional Mental Health Caucus, which I co-chair with Rep. Grace Napolitano held a bipartisan briefing on childhood depression and the importance of identifying and treating problems early in life.  Thank you to our presenters, attendees, and the partnering organizations who participated in the discussion and for their ongoing efforts to promote children’s mental wellness. 

Great meeting with Wayne County Business Council members at the annual Legislative Breakfast. I heard from these local employers about the need to improve skills training and vocational programs for young adults, the importance of P-Tech programs, and how the opioid epidemic has devastated our region. We also discussed the how tax reform is positively impacting our local and small businesses throughout Wayne County and the importance of promoting small, family-owned businesses in the area.

Welch Allyn has been a pioneer in our community for decades, and I was excited to be a part of its campus expansion and to celebrate the job and business growth it brings to our region. This expansion marks a long term investment in CNY by Hill-Rom, and I’m proud to have fought in Congress against the onerous Medical Device Tax so that this company can continue to make investments in our local workforce and community.

Starting and growing a small business is difficult and full of unexpected setbacks. I was honored to attend the 2018 Small Business Excellence Awards to celebrate the hard work of our region’s small business owners. These men and women employ our neighbors, friends, and family members. Congratulations to all Central New York business owners that were recognized for their hard work.

I was honored to receive the “Defender of Housing Award” from the National Association of Home Builders of Central New York. In Congress, I will always support pro-housing legislation that makes homeownership a reality for more people so they can attain their version of the American Dream.

Working together on a permanent legislative solution for Dreamers

Katko touts benefits of tax overhaul at Dot Foods in Syracuse area

Central, northern NY members of Congress support Trump’s exit from Iran nuclear deal

TSA prepares for busy summer, but changing expedited Precheck remains contentious

• Dealing with Federal agencies
• Purchasing U.S. Flags
• Military Academy Nominations
• Tours and tickets for your visit to Washington, D.C.
• Internships