Nicole Malliotakis

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise to highlight the rampant fraud, waste, and abuse in Medicaid that is draining American taxpayers and hurting our most vulnerable seniors, disabled, and other Americans who rely on this program. Yesterday, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russell Vought, told us something shocking, that one out of four Medicaid payments are improper payments--one out of every four. This echoes a 2024 report from the Biden administration's Office of Management and Budget that designated Medicaid and Medicare as a high priority for susceptibility to fraud, waste, abuse, improper payments, and overpayments. In 2024, the Government Accountability Office released a report estimating over $100 billion in improper payments were made in the Medicare and Medicaid programs for the fiscal year 2023. Now, I could read some of these headlines that highlight it in the media. There was a CNBC report that detailed how Medicare and Medicaid programs are being brazenly targeted by sophisticated criminals to the tune of $100 billion a year. ``Lack of State oversight spurs Medicaid fraud,'' says Spectrum New York. ``Scammers ripped off NY's controversial Medicaid home care program to the tune of $68 million,'' from the New York Post. The New York Times says: ``Staggering Rise in Catheter Bills Suggests Medicare Scam.'' ``Florida Man Indicted for [Medicare and] Wire Fraud . . . in $97 Million Scheme.'' ``Medicaid program suspended from two south Jersey nursing homes,'' after being ``accused of taking $83 million from nursing homes funded by New York Medicare and Medicaid.'' ``Fiscal year 2023 proved to be a high-value one for healthcare frauds and settlements, with the DOJ totaling $2 billion in illicit activity.'' In California: ``Attorney General Bonta Announces Indictment of Southern California Healthcare Provider for Medi-Cal Fraud of Nearly $60 Million.'' CEO of ``Digital Health Company Arrested for $100M Adderall Distribution and Healthcare Fraud Scheme.'' In New York: ``Doctor Convicted of $24M Medicaid Fraud Scheme.'' ``Attorney General James Announces Convictions and Sentences of Five Taxi Company Owners in Orange and Rensselaer Counties for Stealing Millions from Medicaid.'' ``Florida Telemarketer Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for $67 Million in Medicare Fraud Scheme.'' In San Antonio: ``Hill County doctor sentenced 10 years in prison, $26 million in restitution for Medicaid fraud scheme.'' I can go on and on, reading headline after headline about the rampant fraud and abuse in this program that is actually taking away--that is what is hurting our vulnerable Americans who rely on this program, the fraudsters who are stealing the money. My Governor, Kathy Hochul, lied to New Yorkers about what Republicans are really trying to do. Our real goal is to root out this waste, fraud, and abuse to protect benefits for our eligible recipients. Kathy Hochul said it herself in her own words. She pointed out how fraudulent the program is. In July 2024, the Governor said that the State's Medicaid Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program has ``become a racket.'' She said it is ``one of the most abused programs in the entire history of the State of New York.'' She said that the current trajectory of Medicaid spending is ``not sustainable.'' Other Democrats have pointed out the same things. Attorney General Garland, President Biden's Attorney General, in a 2024 speech regarding healthcare fraud, announced charges against 193 defendants for over $2.75 billion in false Medicare and Medicaid claims, and that was just one event. New York Attorney General Letitia James, in a January 2025 speech, said: ``Companies that illegally profit by exploiting Medicaid patients steal taxpayer money and undermine the healthcare system that all New Yorkers rely on.'' To my colleagues, Republicans and Democrats, let's work together to actually fix this. Let's work together to go after those fraudsters to eliminate this abuse that we are seeing in this system so we can preserve this very important program that our seniors, our disabled, our children with developmental disabilities, and vulnerable Americans rely on. Let's not play partisan politics with something that is so critically important to so many New Yorkers and Americans across the country.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. It is unconscionable to me that our colleagues on the other side are actually continuing to fight to protect fraudsters, going so far as to even say that if they just stole $500,000 that they should not be prosecuted. We House Republicans are fighting for transparency. We are fighting to protect taxpayers. We are exposing the waste, the fraud, and the abuse, including an estimated $100 billion to $135 billion in pandemic unemployment fraud, money that was paid for by the hardworking taxpayers of this country to help people who are going through a tough time during the COVID pandemic. Sadly, my State of New York ranks near the top of the list with an estimated $11 billion in fraudulent unemployment benefits. The precious taxpayer dollars went to fraudsters, many overseas, including China, Russia, and Nigeria. They even went to dead people and inmates in prison. Criminals spent their money on luxury items like Rolex watches; fancy furnishings; items from Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Gucci; and even a $10 million villa in the Dominican Republic. One spent $3.5 million on a mansion in New Jersey; a chartered private jet; Porsches, Ferraris, Bentleys, BMWs, and Mercedes-Benz. Another received over $1.5 million over a span of 10 months. Meanwhile, my district offices in Staten Island and Brooklyn had to help dozens of constituents who had their identities stolen and could not get the unemployment benefits they desperately needed. This is about fixing something that went badly wrong to not just recoup taxpayers' money but to ensure it doesn't happen again. This bill will help crack down on this type of fraud and would extend the statute of limitations that law enforcement needs to pursue criminal charges or civil actions and also incentivizes States to help us crack down and recover these fraudulent payments, and it puts in checks and balances to stop future unemployment insurance payments from going to incarcerated and deceased people. To date, only $5 billion or less, about 4 percent of this massive fraud, has been recovered. This statute of limitations for prosecuting fraud in COVID-19 pandemic-era unemployment insurance will expire on March 27, and there are roughly 1,000 open cases investigating that fraud. We must allow law enforcement to do their work. I gladly support this bill because I am on the side of the hardworking, tax-paying American who have had to foot this bill while my colleagues on the other side of the aisle continue to defend and protect the criminals and the fraudsters.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the 20th Pastoral Anniversary of Reverend Dr. Demetrius S. Carolina, Sr., a distinguished leader whose contributions have profoundly impacted our community and beyond. Reverend Dr. Carolina has been serving as the Senior Pastor at First Central Baptist Church, where he has provided spiritual guidance and support to countless individuals. In addition to his pastoral duties, he is the CEO of Dior Consultants LLC, a full-service business that specializes in staff and board training development, His commitment to education and leadership is further exemplified by his role as an Adjunct Professor at St. John's University in the School of Education and at HJ International Graduate School for Peace and Public Leadership. Prior to his current roles, Reverend Dr. Carolina served as the Executive Director of the Central Family Life Center, which stands as the most prominent black and brown nonprofit in the Borough of Staten Island. In this capacity, he was instrumental in developing corporate, public, and private relationships, overseeing and administering crucial strategies to ensure the operation and sustainability of the Center. In 2015, Reverend Dr. Carolina was appointed as a Commissioner of Human Rights by Mayor Bill de Blasio, demonstrating his commitment to social justice and equality. He has been recognized for his efforts with numerous awards, including the 2017 New York City Council MLK Community Award. He also served on the Civil Complaint Review Board for New York City until February 2023. Reverend Dr. Carolina's advocacy efforts are noteworthy, having founded The Staten Island Black History Town Hall Meeting and serving as the lead advocate for the establishment of the nationally recognized Eagle Academy in Staten Island. Furthermore, he has been a driving force in growing nonprofit community partnerships that connect Staten Island with other boroughs. In terms of academic qualifications, Reverend Dr. Carolina holds a master's degree in educational administration leadership from Temple University and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership/Management from the University of Phoenix. On a personal note, Reverend Dr. Carolina is married to Josenia Ruiz- Carolina, and together they are the proud parents of four wonderful children: Dior Isaiah, DeLisa Mona, Demetrius Solomon II, and Demetri Rafael Carolina. Today, as we commemorate this significant milestone in Reverend Dr. Demetrius S. Carolina Sr.'s ministry, I invite my colleagues to join me in recognizing his unwavering dedication, impactful leadership, and the positive change he continues to bring to our community.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise along with my colleagues, Representative Monica De La Cruz, Representative Emilia Sykes and Representative Janelle Bynum; in honoring Lynda Carter. During Women's History Month, we pause to highlight and reflect on the achievements of American women who have inspired generations and left an indelible mark on our Nation. Fifty years ago, in 1975, ``The New Original Wonder Woman'' pilot movie aired on ABC and brought America's favorite heroine to life with Lynda Carter starring as the Amazon warrior Princess Diana who left her homeland of Themyscira to fight for justice in the world of men. Wonder Woman, first created by William Moulton Marston for DC Comics in 1941, became a guiding light toward empowerment for young girls and women. Lynda Carter's portrayal of the character on television came during a pivotal time for women who were still battling for many rights including equal pay, the ability to get a credit card without a male co-signer, protections against pregnancy discrimination and sexual harassment, the right to serve on juries, and the ability to join military academies. By the time the show concluded its three-season run on CBS in 1979, the Women's Movement had made significant progress as women across America were empowered and emboldened by the strength, wisdom and compassion Lynda Carter displayed both on and off the screen. In the decades that followed, this TV icon remained an advocate for women, becoming a staunch supporter of Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the Women's Alzheimer's Movement and as a member of the Advisory Council of the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum. Lynda also supports GLAAD and the Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation, and most recently has partnered with City of Hope and TGen to research new drug therapies for myelofibrosis patients. Lynda Carter has been recognized for her work with various honors that include an Emmy Award, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Gracie Awards' Lifetime Achievement Award, the Sor Juana Award by the National Museum of Mexican Art, the Raul Julia Award from the National Hispanic Foundation of the Arts, and the Take the Lead's Leading Woman Award. As the Nation celebrates Women's History Month, the leadership of The Bipartisan Women's Caucus of the House of Representatives honors Lynda Carter for her many achievements and contributions to womankind in the five decades since she first appeared as the superhero with the mission of protecting the world from injustice in all forms.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, as our Nation celebrates Black History Month, I rise to honor Staten Island's own Black Angels. Seventy years ago, tuberculosis plagued our Nation, killing over 1 billion worldwide and accounting for nearly 18 percent of all deaths in New York City alone. Fear of this unknown, highly contagious, and deadly disease led many nurses who were treating tuberculosis patients to quit. In search of staff, New York City turned to African-American nurses from the Jim Crow south who could not find jobs due to segregation, and 300 women bravely accepted New York City's request to help to serve sick patients, taking advantage of the opportunity for employment in a career field often withheld from them. They became known as the Black Angels. These nurses selflessly cared for 2,000 patients in my district at Staten Island's Sea View Hospital. They played a significant role in the first ever human trials and the first drug to cure tuberculosis. Since its discovery in 1952, tens of millions of lives have been saved, and these women all did it at a time when they didn't even have equal rights in our country. I am proud to represent the last remaining Black Angel who worked during the trial. Staten Island's Virginia Allen began as a 16-year-old pediatric nurse's aide and worked in the ward for 10 years. She was there during the clinical trials and is one of the two Black Angels who are still alive today. She continues to selflessly serve our community as president of the North Shore, Staten Island Section of the National Council of Negro Women. Last year, I honored Virginia, along with Curlene Jennings Bennett, who had later on come to serve at Seaview in 1957 in the adult pavilion. They, along with their fellow Black Angels, were recognized for their heroic achievements in the Congressional Record in an article that I submitted so they will be applauded and recognized for years to come. I also hosted them and their families and descendants in my Staten Island office to properly acknowledge the contributions they made to our community. Also, I am very happy to have worked with our local city councilman, David Carr, to get legislation passed through the council to rename a street outside of Seaview Hospital in their honor. That will soon happen. I thank Councilman David Carr for getting this done so we can unveil it this spring. Their riveting story is beautifully laid out in the book ``The Black Angels: The Untold Story of the Nurses Who Helped Cure Tuberculosis'' by Maria Smilios, which I had the opportunity to read last month. I encourage everyone to read this powerful book to learn about this inspiring piece of our Nation's history. The Black Angels heard the call to arms and boldly, proudly stepped into the hallowed halls of Seaview Hospital with their mission to care for the infirm, knowing they were putting their lives at great risk. Their story is finally being shared with the world, and it is fitting that we bestow upon them all the accolades that they were deserving then during this Black History Month and each and every day moving forward. I thank them for their service to Staten Island, to our city, to our Nation, and to the world.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, Anthony Aquaro was born in Brooklyn on February 27, 1921, and served our Nation in the United States Navy during World War II from 1942 to 1945 as a first-class boatswain's mate on the USS Impulse and the USS Kingsmill. In 1944, while on leave, Aquaro married his high school sweetheart, Gloria. The couple, believed to be Staten Island's longest-married, were together for nearly 80 years. Aquaro joined the FDNY as a firefighter when he was 31 and served for 26 years with Engine 269 on Union Street in Brooklyn highlighting his commitment to his community. Aquaro later settled in New Dorp in 1965 and had two children. He later became the grandfather of four and the great-grandfather of eight. We extend our deepest gratitude to Anthony Aquaro for his dedicated service to our community, city, and Nation. His unwavering commitment and bravery have left an indelible mark on all who knew him. We mourn his loss alongside his family and friends, and his legacy will be forever remembered.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Mr. Philip Christopher, a leader and steadfast advocate for freedom and justice for the Cypriot people. For over 50 years, Mr. Christopher has championed the cause of Cyprus, dedicating his life to the struggle for the reunification of Cyprus, the rights of the Cypriot people, and the broader Hellenic community. Mr. Christopher is the founder and President of the Pancyprian Association of America and the International Coordinating Committee ``Justice for Cyprus'' (PSEKA). Through these organizations, he has tirelessly promoted Cypriot sovereignty and human rights, advocating on behalf of Cyprus and Hellenic issues with passion and dedication. As a refugee, who was forced to flee his beautiful homeland of Kyrenia, Cyprus following the illegal occupation of the island nation by the Turkish military in 1974, no one is more passionate and dedicated to these issues than he is. His efforts have left a lasting impact, as he has worked to ensure that the voice of the Greek Cypriot community is heard in the halls of Congress and across the United States. Philip Christopher's contributions have not gone unrecognized. He has received numerous honors, including the Republic of Cyprus Medal of Honor, the title of Honorary Mayor of Kyrenia, and honorary citizenships from multiple Cypriot communities. He was also the first Greek Cypriot to receive the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor in the United States. In 2024, he served as Parade General Chairman of the NYC Greek Independence Day Parade. These awards and recognition are a testament to his exemplary commitment to his community and his invaluable role as a bridge between Cypriot and American interests. Beyond his advocacy, Mr. Christopher has demonstrated significant achievements as an executive in the telecommunications industry and as a board member of various respected organizations. His dedication to excellence in both his professional and community endeavors is an inspiration. Today, I commend Philip Christopher for his enduring dedication to Cyprus and the Hellenic community and express gratitude for his tireless efforts to further the cause of justice and freedom. His legacy stands as a beacon of leadership and commitment that strengthens the bonds between Cyprus and the United States.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of my constituent, Leon Wallace, who will be commemorated with a street naming in his honor on October 5, 2024, at the intersection of Post Avenue and Simonson Place in Staten Island, New York. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas Leon Wallace was a native Staten Islander who grew up in West Brighton and Mariners Harbor, attended P.S. 18 and graduated from McKee High School in 1956. Whereas Leon Wallace enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served as a jet mechanic while stationed in Guam until his honorable discharge in 1961. He later returned to service with the New York State Army National Guard's 5-117th Cavalry Unit in 1976 while simultaneously pursuing an education at Staten Island Community College, now the College of Staten Island. During his 39 years of combined military service, he contributed as a map-reading instructor and retired in 2001 as a Sergeant. Whereas Leon Wallace put his life on the line for our country at a time when our nation did not afford him equal rights as an African American. Not only was Leon a dedicated patriot and member of our military but he was a steward of outstanding service to our community. Whereas after Leon's time in the Air Force, he dedicated his time to helping individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. He was also a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), The United Staten Island Veterans Organization (USIVO), and the 369th Veterans Association, as well as St. Philips Baptist Church, and completed the New York State chaplains' course to minister to other veterans in need. Leon is still greatly missed and our community remains deeply appreciate of his service to our Nation.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, this week marks the 51st anniversary of the Battle of the Sexes, the female versus male tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, played on September 20, 1973. Mr. Speaker, 90 million people in the world tuned in to watch as King made history and defeated Riggs at the Houston Astrodome in three straight sets: 6-4, 6-3, and 6-3. It was a first, it was groundbreaking, and it forever changed the sport of tennis and brought the issue of women's equality to the forefront of our Nation. Billie Jean King has inspired generations of American women. She lived the dream for her generation and the women who came before her, who lived during a time when they were restricted from reaching their full potential. She has empowered young women with the road she paved and the ceiling that she broke. My generation was the first to really benefit from the positive changes made because of her. I can say that she certainly inspired me to challenge and defeat a man for this seat in the House of Representatives. To really put in perspective just how courageous and trailblazing Billie Jean King's actions were, one needs to know what women endured at the time. In 1973: Women could not get their own credit card or open a bank account without their husband or a male cosigner. They could not attend a U.S. military service academy. In some States, they couldn't even serve on a jury. There were no protections against sexual harassment in the workplace. They could get fired just for being pregnant, and there was no access to birth control. Women were paid 50 percent less than men, and the sport of tennis was no different. In fact, it was worse. In 1970, Billie Jean and eight other female players created their own tennis circuit to protest men receiving 12 to 1 prize money at an upcoming tournament. In 1972, when Billie Jean won the U.S. Open singles title and received $10,000 in prize money while the male winner was awarded $25,000, she used her platform to further champion the issue of equal prize money and threatened to boycott the U.S. Open unless the disparity was addressed. She founded the Women's Tennis Association, and she put her reputation, her tennis career, and her title on the line for gender equality, and she never wavered. Her courage, resolve, and determination pushed the U.S. Tennis Association to make the 1973 U.S. Open the first sporting event to offer equal prize money to female and male competitors. Billie Jean is also no stranger to the Halls of Congress. She came to Washington to advocate for and testify in support of Title IX, signed by President Nixon in 1972, that prohibited sex discrimination in all federally funded school activities. Her achievements, both on and off the court, earned Billie Jean King accolades and honors. She became the first female athlete to be named a Sportsperson of the Year by Sports Illustrated. In 1975, Seventeen Magazine readers named Billie Jean the most admired woman in the world. In 1976, she was Time Magazine's Woman of the Year. In 1990, Life magazine named her one of the 100 Most Important Americans of the 20th century. She was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987. In 2006, the U.S. Tennis Association Tennis Center in my city, New York City, home of the U.S. Open, was renamed in her honor. In 2009, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She even has her own song by Elton John in tribute to her 1974 tennis team, Philadelphia Freedoms. As a Representative of Staten Island, New York, where the sport of tennis was first brought and played by Mary Ewing Outerbridge 150 years ago and where the first national tennis tournament was played in 1880, it gives me great pride to stand before you and to join Representative Fitzpatrick and my colleagues in honoring the woman who advanced the sport and achieved equal prize money for herself and all the women who followed. Mr. Speaker, while Congress has awarded a Congressional Gold Medal to prolific male athletes in the past, this body has never awarded a female athlete the highest civilian honor. Today, we seek to change that and award it to the one woman who advocated, fought, and blazed the trail for equality in sports and won 129 singles titles and 39 Grand Slam titles along the way, Billie Jean King.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of National POW/MIA Recognition Day, which is commemorated on the third Friday of September every year. This past weekend I joined the Vietnam Veterans of America in my district to bring attention to the more than 80,000 American servicemembers who were prisoners of war and those still missing in action. My community of Staten Island, New York, recently learned from the Department of Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency that the remains of U.S. Army Air Forces Second Lieutenant Francis E. Callahan of New Brighton were identified after 80 years. Lieutenant Callahan and 10 other servicemembers were killed in action during World War II when their plane was shot down by an enemy combatant during a bombing mission to Brunswick, Germany. At the time, the crash site could not be located by Allied forces or Army investigators. However, in 2015, an independent research group, Missing Allied Air Crew Research Team, contacted the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency historians with new information related to a possible crash site near Wistedt, Germany. The agency's investigators were able to find the location and recovered various pieces of wreckage between 2021 and 2023. Following extensive laboratory analysis, anthropological and dental analysis, along with the available circumstantial evidence, an association between the remains and Callahan was established. Now Second Lieutenant Callahan will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery to rest with his brothers. Sadly, 3 of the 10 members of Callahan's crew still remain unaccounted for. They are among the tens of thousands of other servicemembers who remain missing. As a nation grateful to those who served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we must continue to raise awareness of this issue and work toward the repatriation of all our POW/MIA and bring closure to their families and communities. The identification and repatriation of Lieutenant Callahan, along with Private First Class Raymond Smith of Brooklyn, whose remains returned to New York City in 2021, 71 years after he went missing in action during the Korean war, give us renewed hope that our Nation will fulfill its promise and commitment to return every single American who served our Nation on foreign land. As the POW/MIA flag states, these heroes are not forgotten, and we will do everything we can to honor their memory and bring them home.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Smith for advocating for this bill, working to bring it to the floor, and making sure that we do not have foreign election interference. Mr. Speaker, my legislation, H.R. 8314, the No Foreign Election Interference Act, closes a loophole in our tax code that foreign citizens and potentially foreign adversaries have used to influence and derail the will of the United States people. Under current law, foreign nationals are prohibited from donating to political committees, as my colleague on the other side pointed out. However, what my colleague on the other side of the aisle failed to mention is that there are no restrictions on foreign nationals flowing money through tax-exempt organizations and then moving that money into super-PAC issue advocacy organizations that get involved in American elections with the intention to influence our elections. This is a major loophole. Public reporting suggests that foreign nationals who are barred from directly contributing to candidate campaigns by the FEC are exploiting tax-exempt organizations as a pass-through, something that as current law stands is permissible. For example, a Swiss billionaire has used a network of nonprofits to steer tens of millions of dollars to influence our elections and undermine our democracy. According to The New York Times, the same individual between 2016 and 2020 donated significant sums of money to the Sixteen Thirty Fund, which subsequently sent over $60 million to super-PACs that supported exclusively Democrats. Perhaps that is why we all of a sudden see this opposition to this legislation after it passed committee almost unanimously. We should all be uncomfortable with any noncitizen having so much sway over our electoral decisions and public discourse. Our elections are our elections. They do not belong to individuals who cannot even cast a ballot in the United States. This bill would prohibit any tax-exempt organization that receives foreign national contributions from subsequently making contributions to political committees, such as super-PACs, for 8 years. Failure to comply would result in significant fines and eventually revocation of tax-exempt status. Let me be abundantly clear: To address the concern brought up by my colleague on the other side of the aisle, this legislation does not include any dues-paying trade organizations or labor unions. The sole intent of this bill is to keep foreign mega-donor money out of our elections. Again, I thank Chairman Jason Smith of Ways and Means for working with me on this legislation, and I hope that my colleagues will support this legislation today and that it will pass with bipartisan support as it did out of the committee.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Madam Speaker, I thank Congressman D'Esposito for bringing us together tonight to honor the 2,977 victims of September 11 but also the many more who have died since. I thank him for his service in the NYPD to the city of New York. Madam Speaker, 23 years ago, those of us in New York City experienced the 9/11 attacks in a way we will never forget. I was a recent graduate commuting to my first job near Union Square in Manhattan when the first plane hit the North Tower at 8:46 a.m. We watched in horror as the city descended into chaos and first responders rushed in to save lives. Too many never returned. The attacks shattered our sense of security. ``Never forget'' became the rallying cry for our troops entering Afghanistan in pursuit of Osama bin Laden and al-Qaida. We came together to support the recovery of our city and heal our country. New York emerged stronger with enhanced security, a fortified NYPD, and the creation of the Department of Homeland Security. Twenty-three years later, we approach a somber reality that more FDNY members have passed away from 9/11-related illnesses and cancers than from the attack on September 11, 2001. I have attended memorials and street namings for heroes who made it home on 9/11 only to succumb to it years after. I will forever honor our pledge to never forget by working with Representatives D'Esposito, Garbarino, and others for our first responders and survivors fighting these illnesses by ensuring that Zadroga is fully funded and that they receive the healthcare that they deserve. During my first term, I successfully fought for 3,000 widows and children to be fairly compensated by the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund, something they fought for for over two decades. This year, I am proud to work with Congressman Mike Lawler on the fund the fund act and ensure that the USVSST leaves no more victims out of rightfully owed victims compensation. As we mark the 23rd anniversary of 9/11, it is essential to remain vigilant. Today, we are a divided Nation with new challenges. Afghanistan is again under Taliban control, and thousands of ISIS-K and al-Qaida terrorists were released from Bagram Air Base during the withdrawal from Afghanistan. Our borders are wide open, and law enforcement is stretched dangerously thin. On 9/11, the NYPD had 41,000 officers. Today, it has only 33,000. According to the latest reports, over 350 suspected terrorists have been apprehended at the southern border. ISIS-K-related groups have smuggled 400 individuals with terrorist ties into the United States. We cannot stand by and allow ourselves to be vulnerable. We must honor those we have lost and prevent even the possibility of another attack. We must secure our border. We must make our homeland safe. We must prioritize our country's security, strengthen and support our law enforcement, and ensure that ``Never Forget'' remains a guiding principle, not just a slogan. Lastly, this administration has a solemn duty to deliver justice to all Americans. That means no plea deal for the 9/11 masterminds. Set a trial date, and let's pursue the death penalty.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, if anyone is wondering why we need a bill requiring proof of citizenship to vote, look no further than my home, New York City, where in 2021, the city council under Mayor Bill de Blasio passed legislation allowing noncitizens who have resided in our city for just 30 days to vote in municipal elections. Not only this, but in November, after our office obtained copies of migrant shelter contracts by Freedom of Information Act requests, we discovered that New York City included a provision requiring contractors to distribute voter registration forms, assist in voter registration, and promote campaign material within the shelter themselves, all while prohibiting city agencies from asking about citizenship status in the same contract. As a daughter of immigrants who came to this Nation legally and earned their right to vote, I have joined city and State leaders as a plaintiff in a lawsuit to stop New York City's misguided voting law. We have won not once, but twice; however, we continue to fight because the city continues to waste taxpayer dollars to appeal the ruling. This is why we need this bill today.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, 2 weeks ago, a 13-year-old girl was raped in New York City by an illegal immigrant from Ecuador released into our country by Border Patrol thanks to Joe Biden's open-border policies. In Texas, 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray was raped and murdered by two illegal immigrants from Venezuela, again, released into our country at the direction of the Biden administration. Laken Riley's killer, a Venezuelan gang member, was granted parole by the Biden administration, then repeatedly arrested and released by sanctuary city New York, the only reason Laken is not alive today. Rachel Morin's killer, an illegal immigrant from El Salvador, crossed Biden's open border, successfully evading CBP custody. Kayla Hamilton's killer from El Salvador was allowed to enter by the Biden administration, despite associations with the violent MS-13 gang. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask how many more American women and girls will suffer the same fate before President Biden reverses his policies? I also ask: Where are our colleagues on the other side of the aisle that claim to be champions of women?

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to include in the Record the following Proclamation honoring Ms. Curlene Jennings Bennett: Whereas Staten Island Sea View Hospital opened in 1913 specifically to treat patients with Tuberculosis and, at its peak, Sea View Hospital saw nearly 2,000 patients and was one of only four municipal hospitals in New York City that did not discriminate against Black nurses; Whereas Curlene Jennings Bennett arrived to work at Staten Island Sea View Hospital in 1957 as a registered nurse and worked in the adult pavilions of the hospital; Whereas Curlene Jennings Bennett received her training at Bellevue School of Nursing; Whereas the Black Angels were courageous, dedicated, and bold in answering the call to come to Sea View and risk their lives caring for the grievously sick and ``indigent consumptives'' of New York City, who had been banished to this woefully understaffed sanatorium; Whereas The Black Angels' years of expertise played a significant role in the first ever human trials of isoniazid, the first drug to cure tuberculosis. Since its discovery in 1952, tens of millions of lives have been saved; Whereas the Black Angels were activists and active members of the NAACP, neighborhood churches, and community groups, and became founding members of the Lincoln Hospital Alumni Association, the Urban League Guild, and the Women's Civic and Political Union. They were fierce advocates for the integration of Black nurses into the U.S. military and American Nurses Association, and in New York City they worked toward desegregating the hospital system; Whereas following her tenure at Sea View Hospital, Curlene Jennings Bennett went to Africa where she lived for four years and helped to establish well-baby clinics and teach nutrition. Upon her return to the United States, she continued to serve her community as a public health and school nurse; and Whereas the people of Staten Island are grateful for the years of service by Curlene Jennings Bennett and all the Black Angels who selflessly served on the front lines at Sea View Hospital to treat tuberculosis patients.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to include in the Record the following Proclamation honoring the Black Angels of Staten Island: Whereas Staten Island Sea View Hospital opened in 1913 specifically to treat patients with Tuberculosis and, at its peak, Sea View Hospital saw nearly 2,000 patients and was one of only four municipal hospitals in New York City that did not discriminate against Black nurses; Whereas the Black Angels, as they are known, were courageous, dedicated, and bold in answering the call to come to Sea View and risk their lives caring for the grievously sick and ``indigent consumptives'' of New York City, who had been banished to this woefully understaffed sanatorium; Whereas the Black Angels' caring demeanor, and years of expertise played a significant role in the first ever human trials of Isoniazid, the first drug to cure tuberculosis. Since its discovery in 1952, tens of millions of lives have been saved; Whereas the Black Angels were activists and active members of the NAACP, neighborhood churches, and community groups, and became founding members of the Lincoln Hospital Alumni Association, the Urban League Guild, and the Women's Civic and Political Union. They were fierce advocates for the integration of Black nurses into the U.S. military and American Nurses Association, and in New York City they worked toward desegregating the hospital system; and Whereas the people of Staten Island are grateful for the years of service by all the Black Angels who selflessly served on the front lines at Sea View Hospital to treat tuberculosis patients.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, this week, eight suspected terrorists with ISIS ties were arrested in New York City, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia after crossing our southern border from Tajikistan where they supposedly were vetted and then released into our interior. Since President Biden took office, 340 individuals on the terrorist watch list were caught crossing, and that is just who were caught. Who else is among the 10 million individuals that this administration has allowed to enter after making its 60 different policy changes to undo the border security measures of President Trump? What we know is that he has allowed in drug traffickers, murderers, robbers, those who have assaulted police officers, and even an individual who shot two police officers in New York City a week ago. How many more before President Biden takes action and undoes his disastrous policies, and how many more until cities like mine undo their dangerous sanctuary policies that not only protect these individuals but force the taxpayers of New York and America to house them and provide all sorts of free services to their benefit.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to include in the Record the following Proclamation honoring the retirement of Detective Paul DiGiacomo: Whereas: Detective Paul DiGiacomo, President of the Detectives' Endowment Association, Inc. (DEA), is to be recognized on June 26, 2024, on the occasion of his retirement from the New York Police Department. The people of New York City thank him for his four decades of service and his commitment to representing the interests of approximately 18,000 active and retired New York Police Department Detectives, the largest detectives' union globally. Whereas: A Brooklyn native and the son of a transit police officer, Detective DiGiacomo commenced his service in law enforcement with the Housing Police in 1983 before transitioning to the New York Police Department in 1985. Whereas: Throughout his distinguished career spanning nearly four decades, Detective DiGiacomo has served in various capacities, from patrolling the 70th Precinct in Brooklyn to working in plainclothes with the Borough's Anti-Crime Unit, demonstrating his dedication to protecting and serving the community. Whereas: Detective DiGiacomo's ascent within the NYPD ranks was marked by his diligent work in the Brooklyn South Narcotics unit, where he rose to prominence in the Major Case Unit while concurrently advocating for his fellow officers as a delegate for the Patrolmen's Benevolent Association (PBA). Whereas: Recognized for his exceptional investigative skills, Detective DiGiacomo earned his Detective's gold shield in 1993 and continued to excel in assignments within the Organized Crime Investigation Division (OCID), including roles in various gun units and narcotics task forces. Whereas: In 1999, Detective DiGiacomo assumed the role of Sergeant- at-Arms for the DEA, a position he held with distinction until his promotion to Detective, second grade, by the NYPD in December 2001, in recognition of his exemplary service in an extensive undercover operation related to the homicide of a Queens Police Officer. Whereas: Detective DiGiacomo's leadership within the DEA continued to evolve as he was elected to successive positions on the Executive Board, culminating in his appointment as President in January 2020, where he now leads the union in navigating challenges ranging from collective bargaining to legislative advocacy amidst a complex socio- political landscape. DiGiacomo spearheads all union activity, including collective bargaining, political activities, overseeing the health and welfare funds, the Annuity Fund, and the union's not-for-profit charity, the DEA Widows' and Children's Fund. The union also engages in a wide variety of internal and external public relations ventures and fraternal functions. Whereas: Under Detective DiGiacomo's stewardship, the DEA remains steadfast in its mission to protect the rights and welfare of its members, advocating against detrimental policies such as ``bail reform'' and spearheading initiatives like the legislation named after Detective Brian Simonsen aimed at combating cellphone theft. Whereas: Despite facing unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters, and civil unrest, Detective DiGiacomo remains resolute in his commitment to advancing the interests of NYPD Detectives with unwavering solidarity and dedication. It is with great admiration and gratitude that we recognize Detective Paul DiGiacomo for his exceptional leadership and tireless advocacy on behalf of the dedicated men and women of the New York Police Department.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I proudly join the Greek-Orthodox community of Staten Island to honor the service of Father Nicholas Petropoulakos and celebrate his retirement this month after 50 years of service to the Greek Orthodox Church of America. Therefore, I include in the Record the following Proclamation: Whereas Father Nicholas Petropoulakos was born in Lowell, Massachusetts, and entered Hellenic College Holy Cross School of Theology in 1967 to fulfill his calling of becoming an Orthodox priest; Whereas Father Nicholas was ordained to the Holy Diaconate in 1973 at Holy Cross Chapel on the campus of our seminary by His Eminence, Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago, and was named assistant to the Pastor of Annunciation Church in Woburn, Massachusetts; Whereas on June 1, 1974, he was ordained to the Holy Priesthood at his home Parish, Holy Trinity in Lowell, Massachusetts, again by His Eminence, Metropolitan Iakovos. In 1987, Father Nick received a M.A. in Biblical Theology from the University of Notre Dame; Whereas since accepting the pastorate of Holy Trinity--St. Nicholas in August of 1996, Father Nick has been heavily involved in education ministries, leading Bible study sessions, and teaching in youth ministries. He helped develop the parish website further to bring the community together and introduced the Junior Hellenic Dancers as well as a dance ministry for 3- to 6-year-olds; Whereas Father Nicholas established the ELEOS Ministry for illness support, organized monthly healing services, and initiated THARROS for divorced Orthodox Christians. He oversaw the completion of the Community Center building program and led the renovation of the church, which was adorned with iconography for its consecration on June 3, 2013, conducted by His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America. On behalf of the Greek-Orthodox community of Staten Island, I want to thank Father Nicholas for his years of devotion, dedication, commitment, and spiritual guidance.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, this morning, I woke up to a press conference being held by my mayor, the mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, and our police commissioner. They were saying that while we were sleeping, two NYPD officers were shot. They were shot by somebody who is in this country illegally, somebody who entered via Eagle Pass, somebody who is a national of Venezuela, and somebody who was allowed to be here because of President Biden's 60 policy changes that have opened up our border, allowing dangerous individuals to enter. This was someone who was in New York City being housed, being fed, and having legal services, laundry services, free metro cards, and healthcare on the taxpayers, the hardworking taxpayers whom I represent in New York. The policies of the left are destroying this country. They are destroying our city. They are destroying the rule of law. This was totally preventable. It is something that should not have occurred. Thankfully, those police officers are okay, but it sheds light that the failed policies of the Democrats on the Federal, State, and local levels have come to a head, and this is the result: Our law enforcement, those tasked to protect us, are being hurt. Chuck Schumer, on the other side of the building, represents New York. He still will not take up any of the pieces of legislation that we passed in this House, some with bipartisan support, to deport individuals who are here committing crimes and to take action to undo the policies of President Biden. Just last week, there was another individual who committed murder. This was another illegal immigrant who was here and who committed murder in Harlem. Yet, these two incidents, one in Queens and one in Harlem, both happened in districts represented by colleagues here in this House on the other side of the aisle. Where are they? I don't see them putting pressure on Senator Schumer to pass meaningful legislation to undo what President Biden did by executive order. The President has the ability to undo it, and he continues to lie to the American public, telling them that he doesn't have the authority to do anything at the border. He had the authority to break the border. He himself passed those 60 policy changes. He himself can fix it. I speak today because the American people need to see what is going on. They need to know that this is a direct result of this President's policies and of my mayor's policy that we are going to continue housing individuals in converted hotels in New York that should be going to tourists. Instead, they are going to these illegal immigrants who are wreaking havoc. The person who shot these officers was stopped, by the way, because he was a suspect in a ring of robberies. He and others used motorized scooters to terrorize the community. They committed robberies, pickpocketed, and snatched purses. Why is my mayor forcing we the people, the taxpayers, to house individuals who are committing crimes? The New York City Council, also run by radical leftists, prohibits NYPD from cooperating with Immigration and Customs Enforcement to deport individuals once they are arrested. We have had thousands of arrests of people in this country illegally. They go back to their luxury hotel rooms that we the people are paying for because the New York City Council doesn't think we should be cooperating to have them removed from this country. We leave them there to be able to commit crimes over and over again, 8, 9, 10 times. Mr. Speaker, read the New York Post, which does a good job of exposing it. People with multiple arrests are being released back on the streets to prey on New Yorkers. This is completely unacceptable. Chuck Schumer has to stop hiding behind a bill that nobody likes and wouldn't do the job. He needs to actually hold this President accountable. Let's undo those 60 executive orders, which the President won't do on his own. We have a responsibility to protect the people of New York, to protect the people of this country, to protect the taxpayers of the United States, and to secure our borders. Enough is enough. Let's get it done, Senator Schumer. Do something meaningful over there in the Senate. Pass some of the bills that we passed here with bipartisan support.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas: Constantine `Dino' Iordanou, Chairman of Vantage Group, will be honored by The Hellenic Bankers Association (HABA) on June 5, 2024, at the 40th Annual Executive of the Year Award Dinner for his 42 years in the insurance business, and his contributions to the Hellenic community. Whereas: Mr. Iordanou previously served as Chairman and CEO of Arch Capital Group Inc., holding leadership roles at Zurich Financial Services, Berkshire Hathaway Group, Columbia Insurance Company, and American International Group. Whereas: Mr. Iordanou currently serves as a director of Verisk Analytics and The Bank of Cyprus and is the Chairman of the board of Vantage Risk Holdings. Whereas: Mr. Iordanou is a founding member of the Pancyprian Association of America, an organization founded in 1975 following the invasion and illegal occupation of Cyprus by Turkish troops, to advocate for freedom and justice for Cyprus and its people. Whereas: Mr. Iordanou also founded FAITH, a charitable organization dedicated to the advancement of Greek-Americans through its scholarship education programs, promoting Hellenism and the Greek Orthodox faith, and to supporting the next generation of young leaders. Whereas: Mr. Iordanou has received numerous awards, including the Ellis Island Medal of Honor (1999), Reactions Magazine's Lifetime Achievement Award (2017), Institutional Investor's Best Insurance industry Mid-Corp CEO (2017), St. John's University School of Risk Management's Insurance Leader of the Year, and was named one of Fortune Magazine's Top 50 Businesspersons of the Year (2016). The Hellenic Community is privileged to celebrate the achievements of this year's Executive of the Year recipient, Mr. Iordanou, for his more than four decades of service to the insurance industry, the Hellenic community, and beyond.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the life of Lee Covino, a friend, a U.S. Army veteran, and a Staten Islander who dedicated his life to making our country and community a better place for those who served. Lee served our country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam war. After his service, he attended the College of Staten Island on scholarship from the GI Bill. It was here that his passion for veterans' affairs flourished. He became a peer counselor for local veterans and, almost a decade later, began working as an intervention counselor for the VA's Vietnam Veterans Outreach Center, assisting nearly 1,000 Vietnam-era and combat veterans across Staten Island and Brooklyn. In July 1990, Lee was appointed to the cabinet of Staten Island Borough President Guy Molinari, where he served as the veteran affairs adviser and director of contracts and procurement. His service to our borough continued for another two decades, extending his tenure at Staten Island Borough Hall through the administrations of James Molinaro and James Oddo until his retirement in March 2014. In 2002, Mayor Michael Bloomberg appointed him to the city's Veterans Advisory Board, where he served until April 2015, retiring as the board's vice chairman. During his time at the borough and city halls, Lee played a major role in bringing the vet center and the Veterans Affairs clinic to Staten Island and obtaining a Staten Island bus link to Brooklyn's VA Medical Center. This week, New York City also will celebrate its 36th annual Fleet Week, a show of appreciation for our Nation's Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard teams. Lee was instrumental in helping coordinate local activities and events for this grand recognition of our Armed Forces. He also worked tirelessly to expand veteran services to minority-based areas and assist veterans with resume development and learning computer skills so that they could find employment and readjust to civilian life. Lee's dedication to New York City veterans did not end with his official duties. After his retirement, he continued to serve as an invaluable resource for many elected officials, including myself, where he helped our office organize our veterans' roundtables and became reliable counsel for veteran-focused legislation and ideas. Because of the profound impact he has had on our community, Lee was installed into the College of Staten Island Alumni Hall of Fame in 1989 and was set to be inducted into the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame later this year. He was a member of the VFW, The American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, Catholic War Veterans, AMVETS, New York City Veterans Alliance, the 369th Veterans Association, and he served as treasurer of the United Staten Island Veterans Organization, which sponsored our borough's annual Memorial Day parade. Here we are at the Staten Island Memorial Day parade in 2021, which Mayor de Blasio had originally canceled, citing COVID, until Lee's advocacy and leadership made the mayor reverse his decision, and we marched together honoring our fallen. On Monday, Memorial Day, we, the community, will march again, and Lee's absence will be noticed and his presence immensely missed. Lee was a true American patriot who dedicated his entire life to the service of others, and I know I speak for our entire community and city when I say his commitment to fighting for our veterans is extremely appreciated. My office sends its deepest condolences to his daughter, Mariel, and three grandchildren, Melina, Michael, and Samantha, as they grieve this tremendous loss. They should rest assured that, today, they are in the history books of the United States Congress and that his legacy of service and dedication will inspire us all as we continue to advocate for the rights and well-being of our veterans.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise to point out that New York State has never seen a tax that it does not like. Sadly, in New York, we are once again looking at a $15 cash grab to enter Manhattan city center, affecting constituents of mine in Staten Island and Brooklyn, shifting traffic to the outer boroughs of New York City, and of course, hurting our economy when we are trying to get back on our feet post COVID. It is unconscionable that the Biden Administration rubber-stamped the congestion pricing cash grab of the MTA at the request of Governor Kathy Hochul without even requiring an environmental impact statement as required by Federal law. The NEPA process is clear, and this is a clear violation, which is why myself and others, including some in this Chamber, have sued to try to stop this cash grab. We call on the Biden administration to reverse course. Do not allow this toll to go through. You are hurting the people of New York State. You are hurting New York City's center, which is an economic engine for the entire country. I hope my colleagues will join my legislation to stop it.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record the following Proclamation honoring Carlo A. Scissura, President and CEO of The New York Building Congress: Whereas Carlo A. Scissura Esq., President & CEO of The New York Building Congress, was honored on April 18, 2024, by the National Italian American Foundation in recognition of his service and contributions to the Italian-American community. Whereas Carlo A. Scissura was born and raised in Bensonhurst and is a lifelong Brooklyn resident, currently residing in Bay Ridge with his daughter, Teresa Rose. Scissura is a proud graduate of Pace University and Pace Law School. He had his private law practice in Dyker Heights before joining the Brooklyn Borough President's Office. Scissura previously served on the staffs of New York State Senator Vincent Gentile and Assemblyman Peter Abbate. Whereas for nearly five years, Carlo A. Scissura previously served as Chief of Staff and General Counsel to Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz. Scissura restructured operations at Borough Hall, drove the borough's economic development, and collaborated extensively with the Mayor's Office, City Council, and Economic Development Corporation. Carlo also served on the boards of the EDC, the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation, and the Brooklyn Public Library. Whereas Carlo A. Scissura is a member of the Boards of the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corp., The New York City Regional Economic Development Council, ACE Mentorship, Salvadori Center, and the Friends of the BQX. Carlo is a former member of Community Board 11 in Brooklyn and the District 20 School Board and Community Education Council. Scissura is also the Chair of the Federation of Italian-American Organizations, where he has led the opening of the new Italian Cultural and Community Center in Brooklyn. Whereas in January 2017, Carlo A. Scissura was named President & CEO of The New York Building Congress. Under his leadership, Carlo and his team have achieved significant growth in membership and visibility across New York City and the surrounding region. They have maintained a strong focus on securing infrastructure investments from city, state, and federal governments. Membership has soared by over 200 percent, reaching more than 2,200 members. Additionally, the Chamber has been nationally recognized for creating exemplary models in business development, outreach, technical assistance, and regional branding. Thanks to Carlo's leadership, the New York Building Congress is stronger and more influential than ever. Whereas Carlo A. Scissura was the Chair of the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway redevelopment panel and oversaw the replacement of the BQE from the Atlantic Avenue interchange to Sands Street in Brooklyn. Scissura received numerous honors for his contributions. The people of New York City are thankful for years of Scissura's advocacy, development, contributions, and revitalization efforts throughout the five boroughs for the betterment of all New Yorkers.

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS

Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the anniversary of the discovery of New York Bay by Giovanni da Verrazzano, which occurred 500 years ago today. Giovanni da Verrazzano of Florence, Italy, was the first to lead an expedition to find a western passage from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific. On April 17, 1524, Verrazzano entered New York Bay, becoming the first to chart the East Coast of the United States. His discovery expanded maritime knowledge and sparked inspiration for other explorations, including Henry Hudson's voyage to New York Bay that established New Amsterdam 85 years later. Since then, New York City has become a global economic hub for trade and commerce and has the highest economic impact of any city in the United States. To commemorate the significant impact of Verrazzano's discovery, in 1960, Governor Rockefeller named the bridge in our district connecting the boroughs of Staten Island and Brooklyn the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge. Since 1885, the Statue of Liberty has proudly sat in New York Bay, where she welcomed over 12 million immigrants who legally passed through Ellis Island between 1892 and 1954. Today, New York City is home to 8.8 million people, 800,000 of whom are of Italian descent, with the largest population of Italian-Americans residing in my district. New York City takes great pride in Giovanni da Verrazzano's discovery, and I join our community in celebrating his historic achievements today. The Border is Not Secure