WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford today outlined the proactive actions the FAA will take to maintain the highest standards of safety in the national airspace system. This includes achieving a temporary 10 percent reduction in flights at 40 high traffic airports across the country.
Since the beginning of the shutdown, controllers have been working without pay, and staffing triggers at air traffic facilities across the country have been increasing. This has resulted in increased reports of strain on the system from both pilots and air traffic controllers. This past weekend, there were 2,740 delays at various airports.
“My department has many responsibilities, but our number one job is safety. This isn’t about politics – it’s about assessing the data and alleviating building risk in the system as controllers continue to work without pay,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “It’s safe to fly today, and it will continue to be safe to fly next week because of the proactive actions we are taking.”
“We are seeing signs of stress in the system, so we are proactively reducing the number of flights to make sure the American people continue to fly safely,” said Federal Aviation Administrator Bryan Bedford. “The FAA will continue to closely monitor operations, and we will not hesitate to take further action to make sure air travel remains safe.”
A 4 percent reduction in operations will take effect Friday, November 7, ramping up to 6 percent by November 11, 8 percent by November 13, and 10 percent by November 14.
The FAA will also:
Prohibit some visual flight rule approaches (VFR) at facilities with staffing triggers.
Limit commercial space launches to non-peak hours so they are prohibited between 11:01 a.m. and 2:59 p.m. UTC.
Prohibit parachute operations and photo missions near facilities with a staffing trigger.
These actions were directly informed by the FAA’s review of aviation safety data, including voluntary, confidential safety reports that pilots and air traffic controllers file. The data indicates increased stress on the system, which increases risk.
Additional Information:
Airlines will be required to issue full refunds. They will not be required to cover secondary costs. This is the normal procedure when a delay or cancellation is not at the fault of the carrier.
The order does not require a reduction in international flights. Carriers may use their own discretion to decide which flights are canceled to reach the order’s goal.
Decisions to increase or decrease these flight reductions will be informed by safety data.
The 40 affected high impact airports include:
ANC – Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport ATL – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport BOS – Boston Logan International Airport BWI – Baltimore/Washington International Airport CLT – Charlotte Douglas International Airport CVG – Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport DAL – Dallas Love Field DCA – Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport DEN – Denver International Airport DFW – Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport DTW – Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport EWR – Newark Liberty International Airport FLL – Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport HNL – Honolulu International Airport HOU – William P. Hobby Airport IAD – Washington Dulles International Airport IAH – George Bush Houston Intercontinental Airport IND – Indianapolis International Airport JFK – New York John F. Kennedy International Airport LAS – Las Vegas McCarran International Airport LAX – Los Angeles International Airport LGA – New York LaGuardia Airport MCO – Orlando International Airport MDW – Chicago Midway International Airport MEM – Memphis International Airport MIA – Miami International Airport MSP – Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport OAK – Oakland International Airport ONT – Ontario International Airport ORD – Chicago O’Hare International Airport PDX – Portland International Airport PHL – Philadelphia International Airport PHX – Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport SAN – San Diego International Airport SDF – Louisville International Airport SEA – Seattle–Tacoma International Airport SFO – San Francisco International Airport SLC – Salt Lake City International Airport TEB – Teterboro Airport TPA – Tampa International Airport
Governor Kathy Hochul has been named to the 2025 TIME100 Climate list, recognizing the 100 most influential global leaders driving business climate action. (View the full list on TIME’s website.)
“I’m proud that New York’s work to build a cleaner, more resilient future is being recognized on a global stage by such an esteemed publication as Time Magazine,” Governor Hochul said. “Our approach is rooted in partnership and practicality: supporting innovation, protecting communities, and ensuring New York’s future is both sustainable and affordable.”
Meanwhile (and in contrast), Trump has stopped work on leading edge Empire Wind project, an offshore wind farm planned to power about 500,000 New York City homes, with construction and the development of a port facility in Brooklyn already underway, and cancelled $7.6 billion in clean, renewable energy grants nationwide, including $450 million destined for New York.
Building a Climate-Resilient Future
Governor Hochul served as Co-Chair of the US Climate Alliance from 2024-2025 and now serves on its Executive Committee, utilizing the Alliance to champion climate science and push back against federal resistance to climate progress. As a founding-state, New York has helped achieve the Alliance’s collective reduction of net greenhouse gas emissions 24 percent below 2005 levels. This historic emissions reduction milestone puts the 24 Alliance states on track to achieve its near-term target of 26 percent reductions by 2025, with New York leading the way.
Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York launched the New York State Adaptation and Resilience Plan, a first-of-its-kind, unified statewide initiative to prepare communities for the challenges of a changing climate. The plan coordinates efforts across state agencies to strengthen climate readiness through projects like shoreline restoration, resilient infrastructure upgrades and protecting critical assets from flooding, building upon funding from various sources including the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act and other state programs. As part of the Environmental Bond Act, the Governor has committed historic levels of resources to protecting New York’s coastlines through programs like the Coastal Rehabilitation and Resiliency Projects Program and Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) Implementation Projects Program, which deployed over $30 million to fund essential coastline protection projects, utilizing nature-based solutions to combat erosion, flooding and sea-level rise.
Governor Hochul has also championed the Green Resiliency Grant program, dedicating millions in funding to support flood-prone communities. This competitive grant program prioritizes innovative, nature-based infrastructure like green roofs, permeable pavement and restoring natural habitats to help reduce stormwater runoff and mitigate flooding.
Through the Resilient Economic Development Initiative (REDI), the Governor is deploying $300 million to Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River shoreline communities for resiliency projects in response to past extreme flooding and high water level events. Furthermore, her administration has provided the State action and leadership necessary to secure critical federal partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), successfully advancing long-awaited, large-scale coastal storm risk management projects that will provide vital shoreline stabilization and protection for communities across the state.
Driving A Greener Economy and Green Jobs
Governor Hochul successfully launched New York City’s first-in-the-nation Congestion Pricing Program this January, which has reduced traffic, improved air quality and secured $15 billion for capital investments to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Additionally, under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York is making historic investments in a greener economy through the $1 billion Sustainable Future Program, the largest climate investment in state history. The program accelerates New York’s transition to a clean energy economy, lowers costs for homeowners and small businesses, and creates thousands of family-sustaining jobs.
Key Investments Include:
$150 million for the Green Small Buildings Program to help homes and small buildings install energy-efficient upgrades like heat pumps.
$200 million through the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to finance renewable energy projects that expand clean power generation and lower ratepayer costs.
$200 million dedicated to expanding thermal energy networks, which use a system of pipes to share heating and cooling resources among multiple buildings.
$100 million for zero-emission school buses and an additional $100 million to expand EV charging infrastructure statewide.
$50 million allocated to the EmPower+ to help low- and moderate-income residents make their homes more energy-efficient, while targeted investments in public schools improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions.
Approximately 180,000 jobs, making New York among the nation’s leaders in creating clean energy jobs.
Passing nation-leading Green CHIPS legislation providing up to $10 billion in incentives for semiconductor manufacturing projects that commit to environmental sustainability measures.
Advancing New York’s All-of-the-Above Energy Approach
Despite federal headwinds and post-COVID inflation and supply chain issues, New York under Governor Hochul’s leadership continues to chart a bold path towards a cleaner, more resilient and affordable energy future. By investing in a diverse mix of energy resources, innovative projects, and cutting-edge technologies, the State is expanding access to clean power that supports families and businesses. These efforts are creating cleaner environments and driving economic growth, ensuring that New Yorkers share in the benefits and advantages of a sustainable and reliable 21st-century energy system.
Key Initiatives and Accomplishments Include:
Operating the nation’s first utility scale offshore wind farm, South Fork Wind, and advancing other offshore wind projects, including Empire Wind and Sunrise Wind.
Exceeding the 2025 distributed solar goal of six gigawatts of solar ahead of schedule, solidifying New York’s leadership in the solar industry.
Approving 31 large-scale solar and wind projects representing more than 4.2 gigawatts of clean energy, enough to power roughly 1.5 million homes.
Signing the RAPID Act into law, consolidating environmental review, permitting, and siting of major renewable energy facilities and major electric transmission facilities under the Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES), cutting permitting timelines by up to 50 percent while maintaining strong local engagement and environmental protections.
Constructing the Champlain Hudson Power Express Transmission line to deliver a significant portion of New York City’s electricity from clean Canada hydropower by mid-2026.
Directing the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to build at least one gigawatt of new advanced nuclear energy, which will provide enough clean energy to power 1 million Upstate homes.
Modernizing the grid by completing the Central East Energy Connect (93 miles) on time and $200 million under budget. The Smart Path rebuild (78 miles), upgraded lines to carry more power, hardening infrastructure against extreme weather.
Expanding future infrastructure by modernizing 90 miles of lines including the Smart Path Connect, which is under construction with NYPA and National Grid, and Propel NY, a $3.2 billion initiative led by NYPA and New York Transco, which will upgrade underground and submarine lines through Westchester, Long Island and New York City, while incorporating community input at every step.
Boosting reliability and saving money through transmission upgrades, like the Empire State Line in Western New York, which is moving gigawatts of clean power efficiently, improving reliability and saving ratepayers money. Since 2021, under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York has completed or advanced hundreds of miles of new and upgraded transmission lines.
Directed state agencies in August to work together to responsibly advance shovel-ready renewable energy projects as quickly as possible to take advantage of expiring federal tax credits.
Protecting Natural Resources and Strengthening Communities
Under Governor Hochul’s leadership in Fiscal Year 2025, New York State’s coordinated clean water grants and financing surpassed $3.8 billion in 2025 alone — an unprecedented investment that is transforming water systems in communities of every size. This includes Governor Hochul’s continued $500 million annual commitment to clean water projects.
Additional Key Investments Include:
$26 million made available through the Climate Resilient Farming and State’s Ecosystem Based Management Program to help farmers reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve soil health and protect water quality.
Moving forward with the Governor’s 25 Million Trees initiative to enhance reforestation and green infrastructure statewide.
$30 million in Environmental Bond Act funding for 19 projects across the state designed to mitigate flood risk, restore wetlands, and strengthen coastal and inland protections.
Investments building on the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, which directs at least 35 percent of all benefits to disadvantaged communities — ensuring equity remains central to New York’s climate agenda.
State Zero-Emission Credits Program Helps Spark $151 Million in Energy Savings and Clean, Reliable Electricity Generation
Governor Kathy Hochul announced a major affordability win for millions of New Yorkers: $151 million in energy bill savings in 2026 as a result of the State’s Zero-Emissions Credits (ZEC) program, with the potential for additional savings in future years depending on market conditions. These cost savings will flow directly to New Yorkers, reducing the costs associated with keeping vital existing nuclear power plants online.
“My top priorities are energy affordability for New York consumers and making sure the lights stay on,” Governor Hochul said. “The Zero Emission Tax Credit program is a prime example of how the state was able to take a federal tax credit and turn it into needed energy savings for ratepayers while at the same time supporting clean and reliable electricity generation in the state.”
The ZEC program was created by the New York State Public Service Commission in 2016 to compensate the four Upstate nuclear plants for their zero-emissions power. Under the program, any benefits received from the federal nuclear production tax credit (PTC) enacted in 2022 are required to be passed along to ratepayers.
Constellation Energy owns or controls the four operating nuclear power reactors, located across three facilities, including Ginna, Fitzpatrick, and Nine Mile. All three facilities are located along the southern shore of Lake Ontario. The federal nuclear PTC now being claimed by Constellation Energy will result in a $151 million benefit to electricity consumers in New York State.
By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com
City Harvest, an unconventional choice to be Grand Marshal of New York City’s 2025 Village Halloween Parade, themed, “It’s a Potluck,” proved prescient, for within hours of the 50,000 marchers, performers, puppeteers and bands marching up Sixth Avenue under the delighted gaze of a million onlookers, the Trump Administration was set to cut SNAP benefits for 42 million Americans, including three million New Yorkers (14% of the state’s population – talk about trick or treat!).
For over 50 years, the Village Halloween Parade has transformed the streets of New York City into a spellbinding spectacle of creativity, self-expression, and community spirit. Each year, a unique theme shapes the identity of the parade and reflects the cultural moment in time.
This year’s theme was “It’s a Potluck!” and, in a considerable break with past practice, the Grand Marshal was City Harvest instead of a single person, in the incarnation of famed restaurateur and philanthropist Simon Kim.
“We recognize and celebrate the extraordinary work of this organization that feeds New Yorkers experiencing food insecurity every single day,” writes Jeanne Fleming, the parade’s Artistic and Producing Director, announcing this year’s grand marshal. “City Harvest is committed to being there – rescuing fresh produce and delivering it for free to New Yorkers across the five boroughs.”
“City Harvest feeds the BODY and the SPIRIT, bringing a literal Feast every day to New York City, just as the Parade feeds its imagination on Halloween!”
“Right now, food insecurity in New York City is at the highest level on record,” commented Jilly Stephens, CEO of City Harvest. “City Harvest is committed to making sure that every one of our neighbors has access to the high-quality, nutritious food they need to thrive. Together, we will feed our city—one day, one meal, one New Yorker at a time.”
And while there was the usual smattering of costumes with a political message, the overwhelming majority of people reveled in the escapism and fantasy that Halloween affords, and the sheer joy of blood, gore, horror and fairytales. (In New York City, it is often hard to tell who is actually wearing a costume.)
The joy and delight was there, as always, along with the traditional skeleton puppets that creep into the crowds, and the perennial favorite, ThrillerNYC flash dancing zombies.
It seemed the crowds watching the parade and roaming the city’s avenues were in some of the greatest numbers, with people needing a respite from the true horror of news headlines and the hunger for a shared communal experience. New York City had just experienced a history-making march – 350,000 turning out – so no doubt many were practiced in humongous gatherings and even had the costumes.
The Village Halloween Parade has become “the nation’s most wildly creative public participatory event in the greatest city in the world!” Artistic Director Jeanne Flemming enthuses.
With participation in the parade open to anyone in a costume, each year some 50,000-60,000 join the march from Canal Street up Sixth Avenue to 15th Street. Crowds line the route 10 -20 deep, (A VIP ticket for special seating is available; and parade marchers can also skip the line with a VIP ticket; ticket holders are automatically admitted to The Vampire Ball, the official after party, at House of Yes).
Started in 1973 by Greenwich Village mask maker and puppeteer Ralph Lee, the Parade began as a walk from house to house in his neighborhood for his children and their friends. After the second year of this local promenade, Theater for the New City stepped in and produced the event on a larger scale as part of their City in the Streets program. Today the Parade is the largest celebration of its kind in the world and has been picked by Festivals International as “The Best Event in the World” for October 31.
In 1994, the Mayor of the City of New York issued a Proclamation honoring the Village Halloween Parade for 20 years of bringing everyone in the City together in a joyful and creative way and being a boon to the economic life of the City. “New York is the world’s capital of creativity and entertainment. The Village Halloween Parade presents the single greatest opportunity for all New Yorkers to exhibit their creativity in an event that is one-of-a-kind, unique and memorable every year. New Yorkers of all ages love Halloween, and this delightful event enables them to enjoy it every year and join in with their own special contributions. The Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village is a true cultural treasure.”
Berlin – Freedom is in retreat worldwide. Have pluralism, freedom and democracy had their day? What role do economics, technology and the media play? How do we defend freedom? Berlin, a city that stands for freedom and the overcoming of dictatorship like no other, is hosting the Berlin Freedom Conference, 10 November 2025, Gasometer (EUREF Campus) to address these difficult issues.
The event is open to the public. Tickets are available from 19 euros.
The more than 60 international speakers include Masih Alinejad (Iranian women’s rights activist and president of the World Liberty Congress), Garry Kasparov (world chess champion, Chairperson of the Renew Democracy Foundation and outspoken critic of Putin), Leopoldo López (Venezuelan opposition leader and co-founder of the World Liberty Congress), Oleksandra Matviichuk and María Corina Machado (both Nobel Peace Prize laureates, with Machado joining virtually), the legitimate President of Venezuela, Edmundo González Urrutia and Audrey Tang (Taiwan’s digital ambassador), winner of the Alternative Nobel Prize.
German politicians participating include Bundestag President Julia Klöckner and Education Minister Karin Prien. The patron is the Governing Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wegner. Evelyn Zupke (former civil rights activist and SED victims’ commissioner at the German Bundestag) will open the conference by drawing parallels between today’s struggle for freedom and democracy and Berlin’s historical legacy, the peaceful revolution and the fall of the Berlin Wall. For 1989 showed that democratic change is possible and walls can come down – even those of today.
Important voices for freedom and democracy
Other international guests at the Berlin Freedom Conference include Prof. Dr. Michael Hüther (Director of the German Economic Institute), Larry Diamond (Professor at Stanford University) and Annie Boyajian (President of Freedom House). Lithuanian politician Mantas Adomėnas represents the Community of Democracies as its Secretary General.
International human rights lawyers Brandon Silver and Irwin Cotler (former Minister of Justice of Canada) will speak about supporting political prisoners.
The role of business and global cooperation will be discussed by Mariana Oleskiv (European Affairs Advisor to the World Travel and Tourism Council), Franziska Giffey (Berlin Senator for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises) and Ulrich Reuter (President of the German Savings Banks and Giro Association), among others.
Speaking in defence are Ben Hodges (former Commanding General of the US Army in Europe), Damon Wilson (President of the National Endowment for Democracy) and Major Philipp Wolf (German-French Corps).
Audrey Tang, Taiwan’s cyber ambassador, first minister for digital affairs and winner of the alternative Nobel Prize, the Right Livelihood Award, and Lieutenant Yulia Mykytenko of the Ukrainian Army will speak about the connection between freedom and technology, media and artificial intelligence. Other guests include Ahmad Ahmadian (President of Holistic Resilience) and Hannah Neumann (Member of the European Parliament).
The significance of art for freedom is discussed by Chinese exile artist Badiucao and American journalist and author Melissa Chan.
A stage for 5-minute ideas: courage meets practice
Another special feature of the Berlin Freedom Conference programme is the “Ignite Talks” format: on stage, personalities from various fields present their “Freedom Ideas” – new perspectives, initiatives and practical solutions – in five-minute, concise short presentations. The format underlines the conference’s claim to not only discuss freedom, but to actively shape it.
Berlin as a stage for freedom
The Berlin Freedom Conference is part of Berlin Freedom Week, which begins on 8 November and features more than 130 events at over 80 locations throughout the city, bringing freedom to life in both the past and the present. The initiative stems from the World Liberty Congress, whose two-day general assembly will take place on 8 and 9 November in Berlin’s House of Representatives. Around 200 dissidents and democracy activists from over 50 autocratically ruled countries will gather there. In doing so, the city is sending a strong signal to the world: those who are oppressed and persecuted elsewhere will find a parliament in Berlin.
Initiators, media partners and sponsors
The patron of the Berlin Freedom Conference is Berlin’s Governing Mayor Kai Wegner. The Berlin Freedom Conference is a joint initiative of visitBerlin, the Axel Springer Freedom Foundation and the World Liberty Congress, the largest global democracy alliance with more than 200 dissidents from over 50 autocratically ruled countries around the world.
The Berlin Freedom Conference is sponsored by the LOTTO Foundation Berlin, with Airbnb and Berliner Sparkasse as sponsoring partners. The media partners are Die Zeit, Politico, radio3, Tagesspiegel, Wall GmbH and Welt. Details and the programme can be found at berlin-freedom-conference.com and berlin-freedom-week.com; Instagram: @berlinfreedomconference and @berlinfreedomweek.
Berlin Freedom Conference The Berlin Freedom Conference will take place for the first time on 10 November 2025 at the Gasometer Schöneberg. It will bring together leading voices from politics, business, civil society, culture, and the media to launch new democratic alliances and powerfully advance the global commitment to freedom and democracy. More information and tickets at berlin-freedom-conference.com.
Berlin Freedom Week
Berlin Freedom Week (8–15 November 2025) is a new event week that focuses on the idea of freedom. With a diverse programme of conferences, art, culture and public dialogue, it aims to inspire Berliners and international guests and promote exchange on the importance of democratic values in today’s world. berlin-freedom-week.com and visitBerlin.de/de/berlin-freedom-week
World Liberty Congress
The World Liberty Congress is the largest global democracy alliance, with more than 200 dissidents from more than 50 autocratically ruled countries around the world. It will take place on 8 and 9 November in the Berlin House of Representatives. Its goal is to support the fight for freedom in autocratic regimes, promote international solidarity and develop a common strategy for the advancement of democracy. worldlibertycongress.org
Axel Springer Freedom Foundation
The Axel Springer Freedom Foundation is a non-profit organisation that supports human rights defenders from countries where freedom is restricted. Defending freedom and democracy and showing solidarity with those who live and suffer under authoritarian rule were always guiding principles for our company founder Axel Springer, and the Axel Springer Freedom Foundation is continuing his legacy with renewed determination. Supported by a strong advisory board of experienced human rights defenders, the Axel Springer Freedom Foundation organises events, installations and publications. It also collects donations to directly support the work of dissidents and their organisations. freedom.axelspringer.com
visitBerlin “Inspiring the world for Berlin.” With this mission, Berlin Tourismus & Kongress GmbH promotes Berlin’s destination management as well as the city’s tourism and congress marketing. Under the visitBerlin brand, the company is a partner, actor, source of creative ideas, and networker. Its remit is focused on sustainable product development and marketing city-compatible tourism services in all twelve Berlin boroughs with the aim of maintaining the life quality of local residents and harmoniously increasing experience value for visitors. As a tour operator, visitBerlin also issues the Berlin WelcomeCard, the city’s official tourist ticket. The company also operates the Berlin Tourist Info Centres and the Berlin Service Center advice line on +49-30-25 00 25. On visitBerlin.de, Berlin’s official tourism website, visitors can find all the information they need on every aspect of their trip to the city. Find out more about visitBerlin on about.visitBerlin.de
Governor Kathy Hochul today declared a state of emergency and announced new actions in response to the Trump administration stripping food assistance from 3 million New Yorkers come November 1. As the GOP federal government shutdown continues, the Trump administration has refused to release billions in statutorily approved federal contingency funding that would address this crisis in states across the nation. By refusing to release this contingency funding, the federal government is leaving millions of New Yorkers without critical assistance they rely on to feed themselves and their families.
While Washington Republicans refuse to act to avert this crisis, Governor Hochul is stepping up by committing an additional $65 million in new State funds for emergency food assistance that will reinforce New York’s network of vital food bank and pantry partners and provide about 40 million meals to hungry New Yorkers. The Governor is also deploying Empire State Service Corps and SUNY Corps Members to support local food banks during this emergency period of increased need, and continuing to explore food hubs at schools.
“The Trump Administration is cutting food assistance off for three million New Yorkers, leaving our state to face an unprecedented public health crisis and hurting our grocers, bodegas and farmers along the way,” Governor Hochul said. “Unlike Washington Republicans, I won’t sit idly by as families struggle to put food on the table. Today, I’m declaring a state of emergency and am committing additional state funds for emergency food assistance to ensure New Yorkers don’t go hungry. Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress have the power to stop this crisis — millions of families depend on it.”
Since the inception of the program, SNAP benefits have been federally funded. New York administers approximately $650 million per month in federally funded SNAP benefits to nearly 3 million New Yorkers. Given the scale of the program, Governor Hochul along with governors across the country have repeatedly emphasized that no state government can replace SNAP benefits or backfill the program.
Here’s a look at what today’s announcement means for New Yorkers:
$65M in new State funds for programs that support food banks, pantries, soup kitchens and more to provide emergency food assistance to New Yorkers
$40M in new funding for the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program, which provides emergency food relief and nutrition services to food-insecure populations. HPNAP works in partnership with a network of about 2,700 Emergency Food Providers (EFPs), including food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters.
$25M in new funding for Nourish NY, which supplies surplus agricultural products (e.g., milk, apples, cheese, yogurt, cabbage, squash) to populations who need them through the State’s network of food relief organizations (i.e., regional food banks, food pantries, soup kitchens, and community-based organizations that provide food for free to persons experiencing food insecurity).
Deploying Empire State Service Corps and SUNY Corps Members to support food banks
Currently, hundreds of SUNY students serve as peer navigators, helping fellow students complete SNAP applications and assisting at campus and local food pantries.
The Empire State Service Corps will allow current members to expand their paid hours, enabling them to provide greater support at food pantries statewide. In addition, new short-term crisis response positions will be created to assist food pantries and food banks facing staffing shortages.
Today’s announcement comes as New York, along with 24 other states, sued the Trump administration on Tuesday to demand the release of emergency SNAP funds. The Governor also joined a letter alongside 20 other Governors to the President, calling for the Administration to reverse course and release emergency SNAP funds. Governor Hochul also fast-tracked $41 million in state funds for emergency food assistance earlier this week — today’s announcement brings the total of allocated state funds to $106 million.
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “The federal government’s refusal to release emergency food assistance will have devastating consequences for families already struggling to make ends meet. Access to nutritious food is a fundamental public health necessity — it affects everything from childhood development to chronic disease prevention. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, the State Health Department is working closely with food banks, local health departments and community organizations to ensure no New Yorker goes hungry during this crisis. These actions reflect our shared commitment to protecting the health and well-being of all New Yorkers.”
New York State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “No student should have to choose between focusing on their education and worrying about their next meal. In response to the recent cuts to SNAP benefits, our agencies are coming together to make sure no student is left behind. This is a team effort, working hand in hand with our partners in government, communities, and local organizations to build a safety net that ensures that hunger never stands in the way of learning and opportunity.”
New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “SNAP recipients, most of whom are children, older adults or individuals with a disability, count on SNAP every month to feed their families. The federal government’s callous decision to cut off federal funding for SNAP recipients for the first time in the program’s history underscores this administration’s lack of understanding of the difficult economic realities facing nearly 3 million New Yorkers and millions more of our fellow Americans. Now is a pivotal moment for our federal government to honor its long-standing social safety-net obligations. We are grateful for Governor Hochul’s leadership and commitment to fighting on behalf of New Yorkers and demanding accountability from federal officials.”
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “I am grateful for our Governor’s swift response to the federal government’s senseless and reckless cuts that will put millions of New Yorkers in jeopardy of not having enough food to put on the table, stress the emergency food system, and impact our farmers in the process. By providing additional, critical funding to our feeding assistance programs, such as Nourish NY, we will be able to help our food banks and food pantries purchase and make available more local farm products to our communities in need. This is one more step in New York’s efforts to fight back and ensure we do everything we can to maintain support of our families and our farmers.”
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said, “From day one, Donald Trump and rubber-stamp Republicans have waged an all-out assault on the health, safety and well-being of the American people. Their latest attempt to rip food out of the mouths of children, seniors and veterans who have served our country honorably is a disgusting dereliction of duty and makes clear that the cruelty is the point. Instead of finding money to pay off wannabe dictators in Argentina, Donald Trump should use the money that was appropriated by Congress to make sure that 42 million Americans do not go hungry and lose their SNAP benefits. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for her strong leadership and her principled commitment to making sure that every single New Yorker can put food on the table. It’s time for Republicans in Washington to do the same.”
State Senator Cordell Cleare said, “Over 3 million New Yorkers rely on SNAP including almost 1 million of our beloved Older New Yorkers. The program is a lifeline and provides a baseline of humanity and quality of life for those seeking just to simply provide for themselves and their family. It shocks the conscience that Trump and Congressional Republicans would hold families hostage like this, bulldozing the White House and plowing under the well-being of millions. I join the Governor in not only calling out the hypocrisy but in making certain that New York steps up to the plate and funds SNAP with state resources.”
State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Starting Saturday, the Trump administration will cut off SNAP benefits, leaving 3 million New Yorkers without enough to eat. SNAP is one of our country’s most effective anti-hunger programs, and taking it away is a cruel abdication of the federal government’s duty. We have to take every action to protect New Yorkers from the food insecurity created by the Trump administration, and I thank Governor Hochul for this new funding and support for food pantries, which will help us fight against this crisis.”
Assemblymember Rebecca A. Seawright said, “As Chair of the Assembly Committee on Aging, I applaud Governor Hochul for taking swift action to safeguard millions of New Yorkers from losing the food assistance they rely on. Older adults are among the most vulnerable to food insecurity, and the continued refusal of the federal government to release emergency SNAP funds is unconscionable. The Governor’s investment will strengthen our food banks and pantries, ensuring seniors and families can continue to access the nutrition they need to live with dignity. I stand with Governor Hochul in calling for the immediate release of federal contingency funding and for protecting the health and well-being of every New Yorker.”
New York Common Pantry Executive Director Stephen Grimaldi said, “The Government shutdown will have serious adverse effects for SNAP recipients on November 1st, impacting the working poor, elderly, children and the disabled. We’ve got to do better. The federal government must continue to provide SNAP funds to ensure people are fed or millions will flood food pantries and soup kitchens, overwhelming the emergency feeding network. We’ve just served the largest number of households coming for Pantry services in one day, in anticipation of the cuts.”
Food Bank For NYC CEO and President Leslie Gordon said, “Amid surging food insecurity rates, the Federal shutdown has created so much uncertainty and devastating long lasting impact for so many. We are incredibly grateful for the Governor’s leadership. Her support, along with that of the State government, allows us to continue to meet the growing need and serve every neighbor with dignity.”
Sharing Excess CEO Evan Ehlers said, “While we face a growing crisis of food access, the U.S. continues to waste nearly 40% of its food supply, throwing away ten times more food than we need to feed everyone. At Sharing Excess, we’re committed to redirecting that surplus to communities in need, and we’re thrilled to partner with Governor Kathy Hochul and r4 to make a meaningful difference for families across New York during a critical time of need.”
$1 Million Being Awarded to Providers To Continue Successful Community Prevention Coalitions Initiative First Launched in 2024
(Just imagine for a moment if MAGA Republican Lee Zeldin, now Trump’s EPA Administrator who is destroying the environment, dismantling environmental protection and climate action, had beaten Kathy Hochul for New York State Governor. Imagine if even a man in the role would be this aggressive in protecting women, families, reproductive health care and gender rights. Republicans make a campaign slogan of “law and order” and “crime fighting” but when it comes to actions, do nothing to promote safety or security where it matters – gun violence prevention, domestic violence, traffic enforcement—Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com, news-photos-features.com)
Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted progress in strengthening the law enforcement response to domestic violence and better protecting survivors and families through significant improvements to training for police recruits and current law enforcement professionals. Beginning January 1, 2026, all recruits must complete a new Domestic Incident Response section of the required Basic Course for Police Officers, a major step forward in how new officers are trained to respond to intimate partner and gender-based violence. In the past six months, nearly 1,000 professionals representing law enforcement agencies, district attorney offices, and probation departments in each of the 17 counties participating in STRIVE (Statewide Targeted Reductions in Intimate Partner Violence) have received training to implement trauma-informed, survivor-centered strategies.
“As the daughter of a domestic violence survivor, I know firsthand that the scars of domestic violence run deep; that’s why I’m committed to strengthening resources from law enforcement to support services so we can better protect survivors,” Governor Hochul said. “We’ve made significant progress — allocating record levels of funding for victim services and law enforcement, and empowering district attorneys to take on violent offenders — but our work is far from finished. I’ll never stop fighting to protect families and ensure every New Yorker is safe.”
The 16-hour Domestic Incident Response curriculum incorporates the latest research and practices in domestic violence response. It emphasizes survivor-centered, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed policing, reflecting the principles that guide New York’s statewide approach to preventing and responding to domestic and gender-based violence. The curriculum also:
introduces lethality assessment training to help officers recognize indicators of escalating or potentially lethal violence;
features interactive exercises, decision-based exercises and reality-based scenarios that prepare recruits for the complex nature of domestic incident calls;
teaches trauma-informed interviewing techniques to help officers understand how trauma can affect survivors;
addresses technology-facilitated abuse, such as cyberstalking and GPS tracking; and
provides guidance on documenting and using digital evidence to strengthen investigations and prosecutions.
Developed by the State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) in partnership with the state Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, the curriculum was approved by the State’s Municipal Police Training Council last month. Among other responsibilities, the Council sets basic training requirements for police, peace, and correction officers. The Basic Course for Police Officers consists of more than 700 hours of training on topics ranging from cultural diversity to crisis intervention, and recruits must successfully complete it within one year of appointment.
New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, “The new Domestic Incident Response curriculum and our growing STRIVE initiative reflect a clear evolution in how New York approaches domestic violence. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we’re equipping officers with the tools to respond with empathy and awareness, and helping communities build survivor-centered systems that protect families and promote long-term change.”
New York State Office of Victim Services Director Bea Hanson said, “Our goal is to make sure everyone impacted by violence has access to the resources they need and deserve no matter who they reach out to for help. For survivors of domestic violence and intimate partner abuse who choose to report to law enforcement, we need to do everything we can to ensure that the criminal justice system has the training and resources needed to respond appropriately. This project is part of the Governor’s continued commitment to support the safety and healing of those impacted by domestic violence.”
New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence General Counsel Jara Traina said, “When survivors call the police for assistance during a domestic violence incident, they deserve a response that is survivor-centered and trauma-informed. Be it through programs like STRIVE, revamping trainings for law enforcement, or improvements to gun and discovery reform laws, Governor Hochul has made it clear that New York is committed to combating domestic violence and holding those who harm accountable. OPDV is proud to have taken the lead in writing and training first responders on this new curriculum. We are thankful for the Governor’s leadership, and for collaborations like this one with DCJS that further our mission.”
This updated training complements the STRIVE initiative, in which Governor Hochul has invested a record $20.2 million to improve how communities address domestic violence by fostering collaboration among police, prosecutors, probation departments, and service providers. In the last six months, nearly 1,000 professionals have been trained by subject-matter experts supported by more than $300,000 in STRIVE funding. That technical assistance training is ongoing, and DCJS field advisors are working directly with STRIVE-funded agencies and organizations to strengthen local implementation and build sustainable, coordinated community responses.
The Division of Criminal Justice Services provides critical support to all facets of the State’s criminal justice system, including but not limited to: training law enforcement and other criminal justice professionals; overseeing a law enforcement accreditation program; ensuring Breathalyzer and speed enforcement equipment used by local law enforcement operate correctly; managing criminal justice grant funding; analyzing statewide crime and program data; providing research support; overseeing county probation departments and alternatives to incarceration programs; and coordinating youth justice policy. Follow DCJS on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).
Washington, D.C. – Reproductive Freedom for All has filed a lawsuit seeking critical information and records from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the Trump-Vance administration’s efforts to restrict access to reproductive health care. The lawsuit follows a series of requests for public information that remain unlawfully unfulfilled. Reproductive Freedom for All is represented by Democracy Forward in the matter.
The filing responds to increasing evidence that the administration is working behind closed doors to restrict access to medication abortion and undermine emergency health care protections for pregnant patients. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests demanded records related to political interference, agency leadership communications, and coordination with extreme anti-abortion groups.
“All evidence to date indicates that – as we feared – the Trump-Vance administration is working to undermine access to vital reproductive health care, even in circumstances in which a mother’s life is in danger,” said Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward. “The administration’s far-reaching new policies threaten public health, and yet so little is known about how they were formulated because they are hiding without accountability. The public has a right to know how these efforts to impose dangerous and politically motivated restrictions on reproductive health care are being implemented.”
“The Trump-Vance administration is using the FDA to push a backdoor abortion ban, and they don’t want Americans to know about it. They’re quietly working with anti-abortion extremists to undermine access to medication abortion and strip hospitals of their duty to provide lifesaving emergency abortion care,” said Mini Timmaraju, CEO and President of Reproductive Freedom for All. “We’re demanding answers because the American people deserve to know the truth.”
Reports indicate that the administration is considering a politically driven review of long-approved abortion medications and has rescinded CMS guidance clarifying hospitals’ obligations to provide emergency care under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act a federal law that requires hospitals to provide stabilizing treatment to anyone experiencing a medical emergency, even if this includes abortion care when necessary to save the patient’s life or prevent serious harm.
The FOIA requests seek communications from key political appointees, such as FDA Commissioner Marty Makary and CMS Administrator Mehmet Oz, regarding mifepristone, emergency care for pregnant patients, and interactions with outside groups like the National Right to Life Committee, Americans United for Life, and others.
(In a related development, Costco has is refusing to sell or stock the mifepristone abortion pill.)
Though receipt of the FOIA requests was acknowledged by the agencies, they have not produced the requested documents in the time required by law. The lawsuit filed today asks for a court to help ensure that the public can hold health agency officials accountable for decisions that could limit access to abortion and life-saving emergency care.
The legal team working on the matter for Democracy Forward includes Daniel McGrath, Anisha N. Hindocha, and Robin Thurston.
Read the complaint here and the original FOIA requests here and here.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of the Housing Acceleration Fund, a $215 million first-of-its kind program to speed up construction of shovel-ready mixed-income residential projects across New York State. One of the Governor’s key housing proposals from her 2025 State of the State, the Housing Acceleration Fund is part of her all-of-the-above approach to increasing housing supply to address acute housing needs, and accommodate job growth statewide. Too often, communities do not have tools to create mixed income rental housing, leaving many developments permit-ready, but unable to secure financing. New York’s Housing Acceleration Fund will help address this vital need and spur the development of new housing statewide. The fund is catalyzed by the Governor’s $100 million investment secured in the FY26 Enacted Budget and matched with $115 million from awarded participating lenders.
“To combat the housing crisis in New York, we’re leaving no stone unturned,” Governor Hochul said. “This new, innovative loan program is a powerful new tool to help jumpstart the construction of mixed-income housing in communities across the state. These new resources are just one more way for us to help build more housing opportunities for our families, seniors and young adults.”
The Housing Acceleration Fund awards announced today are expected to result in approximately 1,800 new homes statewide. The awardees are:
Community Preservation Corporation: $45.5 million
Merchants Bank: $42 million
Enterprise Community Partners: $7.5 million
Local Initiatives Support Corporation: $5 million
Half of the State’s $100 million investment is appropriated for projects within New York City and half is allocated to projects throughout the rest of the state. Awardees will provide $115 million in additional capital, bringing the total amount of funding for projects within New York City to $100 million and the amount for projects throughout the rest of the state to $115 million.
The Housing Acceleration Fund, administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), will provide low-cost, construction loans to fill financing gaps in the construction of mixed-income housing developments. The Fund is designed to utilize public capital to leverage private capital investment in mixed-income multifamily rental production. The Fund is estimated to generate upwards of $1 billion in new housing investment throughout New York State.
The revolving loan fund model complements other HCR programs to enhance housing production and will speed up production of new rental housing beyond reliance upon limited resources dedicated to the creation of 100 percent affordable housing such as tax-exempt bonds and low-income housing tax credits. The program is designed to self-sustain over time through loan repayments once projects convert to permanent financing once the project is complete. To learn more about the New York State Housing Acceleration Fund program, visit the HCR website.
New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “By partnering with these four lending institutions, we are injecting more than $200 million towards the creation of 1,800 new apartments for residents across the state. Other states have shown this innovative, self-sustaining loan model can fill funding gaps that may be the difference between new housing being built or never getting off the ground, and we’re thrilled to bring this important tool to New York. We once again applaud Governor Hochul for her efforts to boost the supply of housing across the state, and we thank our partners for sharing our commitment to creating affordable, modern housing in all our communities.”
“I applaud Governor Hochul and Commissioner Visnauskas for continuing to advance an ambitious housing agenda that puts the needs of New York’s communities at the forefront,” The Community Preservation Corporation CEO Rafael E. Cestero said. “At a time when cities large and small are facing challenges of housing affordability and supply, this Administration has given us a tool that drives critical investment in housing and will speed the development of new projects across the state. My thanks to the Governor and her team at HCR for their continued partnership. We stand ready to put this funding to work alongside our capital to get shovels in the ground and provide new housing opportunities to all New Yorkers.”
Merchants Capital Vice Chairman of Agency Lending Mathew Wambua said,“Merchants Capital is honored to be selected to participate in the HCR Housing Acceleration Fund Program and thrilled to deepen our partnership with HCR and our clients in this important initiative. This program represents a powerful opportunity to accelerate the development of shovel-ready affordable housing projects across New York City and New York State. By leveraging these low-cost loans, we can help bring much-needed housing to communities throughout the region—ensuring more New Yorkers have access to safe, stable and affordable homes.”
“Enterprise Community Partners is honored to partner with New York State’s Homes and Community Renewal through its Housing Acceleration Fund.,” Enterprise’s Capital Division President Lori Chatman said. “This innovative program reflects our shared vision of making home and community places of pride, power, and belonging. By combining public resources with mission-driven capital, we can move shovel-ready, mixed-income housing projects forward faster — closing critical financing gaps and delivering the affordable homes New Yorkers urgently need.”
LISC NY Senior Executive Director Valerie White said, “We thank Governor Kathy Hochul and New York State Homes and Community Renewal for their leadership and partnership in creating the Housing Acceleration Fund and moving swiftly to bring it to fruition. LISC NY is proud to work with the State to deliver critical resources that help communities develop mixed-income housing and move more projects from vision to reality. This $5 million investment from HCR, alongside LISC NY’s own $25 million commitment, will empower affordable housing developers to overcome predevelopment barriers, strengthen housing pipelines, and deliver the quality, affordable homes New Yorkers urgently need.”
State Senator Rachel May said, “The Housing Acceleration Fund is a smart, targeted investment in New York’s future. Communities across the state want to build more housing, but too often good projects are held back by gaps in financing. This program helps get good projects off the ground, including mixed-income housing that supports the workforce and strengthens neighborhoods. In Syracuse and across Central New York, the need for new, affordable, and energy-efficient housing is especially acute, and the State’s investment will help meet that demand while creating more vibrant, inclusive communities.”
Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal said, “The Housing Acceleration Fund is a welcome tool to help ease the housing crisis facing New York State. Communities around the state are grappling with rising construction costs and would welcome new rental housing, but lack the financing to get the job done. With Governor Hochul’s welcome announcement of a $215 million investment from the state, we can jumpstart construction on these projects and continue our work toward ensuring that every New Yorker has a safe, affordable place to call home.”
Assemblymember Micah Lasher said, “It is outstanding that Governor Hochul and HCR are announcing a major public revolving loan fund for affordable housing. I was proud to introduce legislation at the beginning of the year with Senator May to create this kind of fund, and Governor Hochul and her team have done it even bigger and better. By leveraging public dollars to unlock private investment, this fund will create thousands of new homes and generate over a billion dollars in housing development across the State. When we think creatively to solve our housing crisis, we can deliver real results for New Yorkers.”
Governor Hochul’s Housing Agenda
Governor Hochul is dedicated to addressing New York’s housing crisis and making the State more affordable and more livable for all New Yorkers. As part of the FY25 Enacted Budget, the Governor secured a landmark agreement to increase New York’s housing supply through new tax incentives, capital funding, and new protections for renters and homeowners. Building on this commitment, the FY26 Enacted Budget includes more than $1.5 billion in new State funding for housing, a Housing Access Voucher pilot program, and new policies to improve affordability for tenants and homebuyers. These measures complement the Governor’s five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan, included in the FY23 Enacted Budget, to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes. More than 68,000 homes have been created or preserved to date.
The FY25 and FY26 Enacted Budgets also strengthened the Governor’s Pro-Housing Community Program — which allows certified localities exclusive access to up to $750 million in discretionary State funding. Currently, more than 370 communities have received Pro-Housing certification.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York State will protect access to reproductive health care services despite Washington Republicans’ targeted attacks against Planned Parenthood health centers and the services they provide. Earlier this year, Congressional Republicans voted to end Medicaid patients’ ability to seek care at Planned Parenthood, threatening Planned Parenthood’s ability to operate in New York and compromising New Yorkers’ access to health care services, including contraception, abortion, STI and HIV prevention, prenatal and menopausal care, mental health services, and preventive care like wellness visits and cancer screenings.
”Washington Republicans have shown time and again that they’ll stop at nothing to undermine women’s health care and restrict access to reproductive rights,” Governor Hochul said.“In the face of Congressional Republicans voting to defund Planned Parenthood, I’ve directed the state to fund these vital services, protecting access to health care that thousands of New Yorkers rely on. I will always stand up for reproductive rights and the health care that New Yorkers deserve.”
Planned Parenthood is the leading provider of sexual and reproductive health services in New York State via five affiliate organizations, including Planned Parenthood of Greater New York, Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic, Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York, Planned Parenthood of the North Country New York, and Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood. This network of affiliates currently operates 47 health centers that serve over 200,000 patients each year. This includes 100,000 Medicaid patients, totaling over $35 million in annual Gross Medicaid revenue.
Over 60 percent of Planned Parenthood health centers are in rural or medically underserved areas, and these centers are often the only option available to New Yorkers living in these rural areas. They are a critical source of affordable health care to Medicaid and non-Medicaid recipients.
What Washington Republicans Voted To Do:
H.R. 1, enacted into law on July 4, includes a one-year prohibition on federal Medicaid funding for organizations that provide abortions and that received $800,000 or more in federal Medicaid funds in 2023.
H.R. 1 classified these organizations as “prohibited entities.” Planned Parenthood’s five affiliates in New York are the only providers in the state that meet the definition of a “prohibited entity.”
Prior to the passage of H.R. 1, Medicaid claims submitted by Planned Parenthood were reimbursed with a combination of federal and State dollars, though no federal dollars are used to reimburse abortion services.
Now that they are deemed a “prohibited entity” under H.R. 1, Planned Parenthood is no longer eligible to receive federal Medicaid funds for any of the services they provide.
Governor Hochul is protecting access to reproductive health care for all New Yorkers by allocating state funds to cover lost federal funding to Planned Parenthood affiliates in New York.
Governor Hochul continues to reaffirm her commitment to keeping reproductive resources safe and accessible in New York State. The Governor has made historic investments to expand reproductive freedom for New Yorkers, including increasing funding for abortion care providers, signing legislation to protect New York doctors and securing $25 million annually to fund abortion health care services through the New York State Abortion Access Program.
Hochul Sends $11 Million to Support Local Emergency Food Relief
Governor Kathy Hochul announced more than $11 million to support emergency food relief for New Yorkers in need. More than $5 million in Local Emergency Food Relief Equipment grants were awarded to nearly 100 not-for-profit organizations, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and other programs dedicated to assisting New Yorkers experiencing food insecurity across the state. In addition, more than $6 million will support a renewed partnership with Feeding New York State and the 10 regional food banks by funding critical staffing and essential operations at food banks and their local partners statewide. This action comes at a time when the Trump Administration refuses to ensure the nearly 3 million New Yorkers who rely on SNAP will have access to their benefits next month.
“While the Trump administration continues to starve federal food assistance programs of funding, New York State is investing directly in local organizations that feed New Yorkers who are struggling with skyrocketing food prices,” Governor Hochul said. “With more than three million New Yorkers experiencing food insecurity, including more than 750,000 children under the age of 18, we are making investments in community-based food relief organizations to fight hunger and complement our wide-ranging affordability efforts.”
A total of 97 Local Emergency Food Relief Equipment grants, ranging from $1,200 to $100,000, will help organizations purchase emergency generators and equipment used for cooling and transporting donated food, and expand the quantity and type of food emergency food relief organizations can provide to New Yorkers in need. The grant program is administered by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) as part of an ongoing commitment to properly manage wasted food, prevent food from needlessly being thrown away, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, feed hungry New Yorkers and engage with communities across the state.
With funding provided by the State’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), DEC has awarded millions to 145 emergency food relief organizations since the program was first created in 2018 to assist with the purchase of equipment used for the cooling and transportation of donated food to New Yorkers in need.
DEC is also renewing its nation-leading partnership with Feeding New York State and the 10 regional food banks as part of the ongoing implementation of the New York State Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling Law. DEC is providing more than $6 million to Feeding New York State to support the ongoing deployment of staff to grocery stores, supercenters, restaurants and other food service and food retail businesses to enhance donation activities. Funding will also be used to purchase essential equipment and supplies that support food recovery efforts at food banks and their local partners and hire additional staff at food banks. It will also enhance the Venison Donation program that supports additional processing of high-quality venison. DEC has provided $10.8 million to Feeding New York State and the 10 regional food banks through the EPF since 2018.
Governor Hochul today penned a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins calling on the USDA to take immediate action to ensure SNAP recipients receive their November benefits. As the shutdown continues, come November 1, millions of New Yorkers will lose access to the nutrition assistance they need to feed themselves and their households — and our economy will be hurt as businesses throughout the food supply chain, including farmers and small businesses, feel the residual effects. Governor Hochul is calling on Secretary Rollins to use her power to fund SNAP and prevent a public health crisis.
“As the GOP government shutdown continues, thousands of New Yorkers are at risk of losing their SNAP benefits come November 1,” Governor Hochul said. “I am calling on the Trump administration to guarantee these essential funds so that New Yorkers can continue to put food on the table, and I urge Washington Republicans — including the seven from New York — to actually stand up for their constituents, come to the negotiating table and end this uncertainty and chaos.”
The Governor’s letter comes as SNAP access has already been attacked by the Big Ugly bill, which is anticipated to strip over 300,000 New York households of their SNAP benefits.
The question is whether Nassau County residents will let Bruce Blakeman, seeking reelection as County Executive, get away with his malicious lies that exploit and traumatize rape victims, while at the same time, hiding his accountability for shutting down the one safe haven for victims of rape, domestic violence and abuse available to them.
Republicans from the highest office (Trump) down to the lowest local politician have made lying the key weapon in well-funded campaigns. This is the latest and most egregious.
Using a law review article written by his opponent, Nassau Legislator Seth Koslow, as a law student (when they are being taught to defend both sides of a legal case), Blakeman accuses Koslow in his campaign flyers and commercials of being “an extremist” who supports rapists instead of their victims and won’t keep women safe. (Koslow went on to become a Queens prosecutor prosecuting family law cases.)
The mailers have triggered trauma of survivors of rape and domestic violence even decades after.
Yet it is months since Blakeman’s withdrew funding for the Safe Center (formerly the Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Child Abuse), which provided the only safe haven for victims of domestic abuse in a county of 1.4 million people, forcing the service to close. At the time, Blakeman claimed to have another vendor (or the Nassau University Medical Center which was embroiled in financial scandal) to operate the shelter. But no new operator was contracted and without funding, the shelter was forced to close.
In 2023, the last year for which statistics were publicly available, Nassau County had 4,410 victims of domestic violence, according to the state’s Division of Criminal Justice Service, Newsday reported
Blakeman acknowledges in the mailers’ fine print that the damning accusations he levels against his opponent, Democrat Seth Koslow, are based on a law review article written while he in law school, where students are taught to defend both sides of a legal case.
“Americans are sick of politicians’ lies and distortions,” declared Jody Kass, founder of Nassau Residents for Good Government (NRGG), at a rally on the steps of the County Executive Building. “The insensitive, graphic mailers are triggering rape victims.”
She accused Blakeman of misogyny in trying to score political points by exploiting victims, while trying to hide away from his own actions which put women at risk of rape, abuse, even death.
“Blakeman’s disgraceful campaign lies are compounded by his actions that resulted in the shutting down of the Safe Center, Nassau’s only agency for domestic violence and sexual assault victims, earlier this year. And, his 2026 budget has zero funding for the Safe Center. Are Blakeman’s lies about his opponent intended to keep voters’ eyes off his own record of cutting services for rape victims, and victims of domestic violence? Voters demand transparency and honesty, not performative outrage coupled with a failure to act.”
Ronni Levine of Planned Parenthood Greater New York, who had worked with countless individuals seeking counseling and safety, said New Yorkers want to elect local and state representatives who are committed to protecting reproductive rights. But certain politicians are going after abortion rights, contraception and gender affirming care, cutting off grants that are creating unprecedented financial challenges, harming the ability to access care, and pushing policies that threaten bodily autonomy.
Planned Parenthood NY PAC, which endorses candidates that support reproductive freedom and health care, endorsed Koslow.
Blakeman also opposed Governor Kathy Hochul’s effort to restore gun safety legislation after the Supreme Court overturned the state’s century-old gun control regulations. At the time, Blakeman cheered the ruling, declared he wanted to expedite licensing and enable people to bring their guns into their synagogue.
Janet Goldstein of the Moms Demand Action’s Long Island group, said that gun violence is a women’s issue.
She referred to Everytown research showing that abusers with firearms are five times more likely to kill their female victims, and guns further exacerbate the power and control dynamic commonly used by abusers to inflict emotional abuse and exert coercive control over their victims. Every month, more than 70 women are shot and killed by an intimate partner. Nearly 6 million women reported having a gun used on them by an intimate partner. In 46 percent of mass shootings between 2015 and 2022, the perpetrator shot a current or former intimate partner or family member as part of the rampage. The ripple effects of firearms in the hands of an abuser extend far beyond the intimate relationship—affecting children who witness or live with it and the family members, coworkers, and law enforcement officers who respond to it.
“Guns don’t just escalate the abuse, they make domestic abuse more likely to end in death,” Goldstein said. “The trauma of domestic abuse lasts a lifetime. We need to fight for stronger laws. Instead of keeping people safe, Blakeman is exploiting the pain and trauma of domestic violence for political gain.”
A young woman recalled her own trauma of having been raped in Central Park when she was 14 years old. “It is still hard to say ‘rape,’ ‘sexual assault takes away some of the sting, but rape is true violence.” She said she was re-traumatized by Blakeman’s flyers coming into her mailbox and his commercials.
“Leaders are supposed to look out for all of us. We had a place where we could go for counseling, it even had a safe house. When I was raped, I didn’t have a safe center to go to – I was alone at a public health clinic in Jamaica Queens. I was re-traumatized by the mailings. I am tired of women and girls made to feel ‘less than’, exploited and victimized. We deserve more from our leaders.”
Lisa Saltzman, a criminal defense attorney who has represented “too many” victims, said the Safe Center was the “gold standard” to refer for services and safety. “Many survivors have to leave behind their home, their income, sometimes even their children. The Safe Center was a lifeline to regain their freedom and dignity, where they could get counseling, housing, employment, without living in fear of being raped, abused, even killed.”
“When the county supported the center, it was saying ‘You deserve to be safe, heard, free of violence at the hand of your abuser.’ By closing the center, Blakeman is saying, ‘No you don’t.’ Blakeman doesn’t care about women in Nassau County at risk of rape or being killed by their abuser,” Saltzman said.
“Stop lying and accusing your political opponent of not protecting women when that is what he is doing.” These lies are offensive and should be illegal.
Kass has been tracking and exposing Blakeman’s lies on the “Deceived Nation” website (DeceivedNation.com). “Blakeman’s lies cause damage, pain and suffering every day.”
But she said there is a through-line from Blakeman’s lies to George Santos, who committed fraud and lied his way to a Congressional seat in New York’s 3rd District. Kass’ group, Concerned Citizens of NY03, was largely responsible for Santos ultimately being expelled from Congress, though Republicans held on to him as long as possible because he provided a critical vote. Santos was indicted, prosecuted, and finally sentenced (after pleading guilty) to 7 ¼ years, but Trump has just commuted his sentence (and his obligation to pay his victims $350,000 in restitution) after just 84 days in a cushy prison.
“In Trump’s MAGA Republican party, lying is good, is encouraged, applauded and rewarded. Santos lied and was rewarded with a seat in Congress. Caught lying, the GOP kept him.”
“Blakeman also has serious challenges with the truth,” Kass said.”He’s served as County Executive for nearly four years, having campaigned on fixing the County’s broken tax assessment system, cutting $100 million in taxes, opposing the red light camera fees and protecting our constitutional rights, particularly on healthcare decisions, among other objectives,” Kass declared.
“Blakeman has cut services for women and brought nasty, partisan, misogynistic lies to Nassau, but has he achieved any of his campaign promises? Blakeman owes voters an honest and transparent report on his accomplishments. Instead of violating voters’ mailboxes nearly every day with his litany of dark and dishonest accusations and distortions about his opponent, it’s time for Blakeman to start explaining what he’s accomplished these last four years.
“Blakeman is lying to get reelected. He is the one taking away women’s protection.”
