Ahead of the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Governor Kathy Hochul, standing with former Mayor Mike Bloomberg at the ceremony, signed three pieces of legislation to provide support to 9/11 victims, responders and surviving family members.© Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Ahead of the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Governor Kathy Hochul signed three pieces of legislation to provide support to 9/11 victims, responders and surviving family members. This support will help ensure eligible New Yorkers can receive the benefits they are entitled to under the law.  

“None of us will ever forget the horrific attacks on our state and nation on that day in 2001 — nor will we ever forget the unflinching bravery and sacrifice of civilians and first responders whose lives were devastated,” Governor Hochul said. “As we mark the 25th anniversary of the events at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania, we sign these three laws to support and honor those whose lives were transformed on that terrible day.”

A.11531 / S.10605 amends the Retirement and Social Security Law to extend to September 11, 2030, the deadline to submit documentation with the retirement system detailing an individual’s participation in World Trade Center rescue, recovery and clean-up operations following September 11, 2001. This legislation also extends the deadline to submit Form WTC-12to the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board until September 11, 2030. Submitting the proper documentation preserves an individual’s right to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits in the future for any injury or illness caused by participation in rescue, recovery and clean-up operations between September 11, 2001, and September 11, 2002. All such persons who participated at Ground Zero, Fresh Kills Landfill, the barges, the piers and/or the morgues during that time should file Form WTC-12 whether they were injured or not.  

The legislation also requires the Board to reconsider any claims in which the worker became disabled between September 11, 2021, and September 11, 2025, which were previously disallowed due to the deadline, and extends the time limit for filing new claims for injuries or illnesses occurring within that timeframe until on or before September 11, 2030.

*Governor Kathy Hochul signed three pieces of legislation to provide support to 9/11 victims, responders and surviving family members.© Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com*

State Senator Robert Jackson said,“Twenty-five years after September 11, remembrance must mean more than looking back — it must mean standing by those who carried New York through its darkest hour. I am proud that S.10605 and S.10085A, two bills I sponsor, are now law because our responsibility to the 9/11 community cannot be measured by the passage of time. The years may move forward, but sacrifice does not expire, illness does not obey a calendar, and neither should justice. I commend Governor Hochul for signing these measures into law and affirming a promise that must endure across generations: New York remembers, New York honors and New York stands by those who stood for us.”

Assemblymember Charles D. Fall said,“Twenty-five years after September 11th, the heroes who answered the call are still living with the consequences of the courage they showed that day and in the months that followed. We can never put a deadline on our responsibility to them. I’m proud that my legislation is now law, ensuring that responders who ran toward danger, worked on the pile, and helped our city recover have more time to protect their right to the benefits they earned and deserve, especially as 9/11-related illnesses continue to surface decades later. ‘Never Forget’ must be more than words. It means remembering their sacrifice, standing with their families, and continuing to show up for the heroes who showed up for us.”

A.11538 / S.10650 extends by four years, through September 11, 2030, the deadline for submitting a claim for World Trade Center death and disability benefits for members of New York’s National Guard members and their beneficiaries. This relates to members of the National Guard who were activated on state active duty on or after September 11, 2001, to participate in World Trade Center site rescue, recovery or cleanup operations as part of their duty and determined to have incurred a qualifying World Trade Center condition. 

*Families mark the 25^th anniversary of the September 11^th terror attacks that took their loved ones and shattered lives © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com*

Assemblymember Grace Lee said,“Twenty-five years ago, thousands of our National Guard members answered the call to duty, descending on Ground Zero to assist in rescue and recovery efforts. Five members of the National Guard died on that tragic day, and many more have battled health complications as a result of their service. Thank you to Governor Hochul for signing this bill, as part of a package supporting 9/11 victims, responders and their families. We will never forget the sacrifices made by all who answered the call on 9/11, and we will keep fighting to honor and support them.”

A.11213A/S.10085A  extends the 25-year presumptive eligibility period for certain retirement benefits for injuries or illnesses related to World Trade Center rescue, recovery and clean-up, extending provisions allowing for the reclassification of retiree deaths as World Trade Center qualifying accidental deaths for retirees who die after having been retired for more than 25 years up to a maximum of 35 years. 

*New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation giving additional benefits and protections to family survivors of 9/11 victims© Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com*

Assemblymember Stacey Pheffer Amato said, “The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 had, and still has, a profound lasting impact on our State’s history and is felt by many residents in our community, and across our great State. ‘Never Forget’ is not a motto, it is a real statement that New York is fully committed to honoring. Ensuring all 9/11 victims, first responders and their families can continue to receive the benefits and support they are entitled to is an essential part of that commitment. I commend Governor Hochul for her continued dedication to helping those impacted by the 9/11 terrorist attacks and applaud her for signing these vital pieces of legislation into law.”

New York State Workers’ Compensation Board Chair Freida D. Foster said, “The Board applauds Governor Hochul’s tireless work fighting for the best outcomes for all New Yorkers and especially the brave responders who put their own lives on the line to help others. As World Trade Center health consequences continue to manifest 25 years later, the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board remains dedicated to ensuring World Trade Center victims, responders, and surviving family members get every benefit they are entitled to receive. We continue to urge all those who participated in the rescue, recovery, and clean-up efforts to file a WTC-12 form to preserve their rights to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits should they ever need them.” 

“These bills are critical to ensuring that the workers who answered the call to rescue, recover, and clean up at the World Trade Center in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks are no longer denied the benefits they and their families have earned and deserve,” New York State AFL-CIO Mario Cilento said. “By signing these bills into law as we mark the 25th anniversary of the attacks, Governor Hochul has once again demonstrated her unwavering support for those who risked their own lives to save others. We thank her for her continued commitment to addressing the ongoing struggles faced by so many selfless heroes.”

Police Conference of New York President Michael O’Meara said, “The Police Conference of New York, representing almost 50,000 police officers across New York State sincerely thanks Governor Hochul and the members of the New York State Legislature for remembering and honoring the commitments to all of our brave 1st responders by passing and signing these bills into law. The Governor has once again shown courage and resolve in these meaningful actions that will have real impact on the brave men and women who so proudly served our state in its darkest hours. Thank you.”

NYC PBA President Patrick Hendry said, “These bills are far more than a tribute to our 9/11 heroes. They are a promise to the responders and their families that the benefits they count on will remain available for years to come. We thank Governor Hochul and the legislature for once again showing that there is no expiration date to our obligation to care for those who sacrificed their health to protect our city.”

“Our Detectives are still dying from 9/11-related cancers, and their families are still living with the devastating consequences of the work they did at Ground Zero,” NYPD DEA President Scott Munro said. “For 25 years, they have paid the price for breathing toxic air while answering the call. The DEA has never stopped fighting to protect our members and their families, and we never will. Governor Hochul’s signing of this legislation ensures that those who sacrificed their health in service to this city will continue to receive the benefits they earned and deserve. We are grateful to her for standing up for what is right.”

“On behalf of every professional firefighter who answered the call on September 11th and in the months of rescue, recovery, and clean-up that followed, we thank Governor Hochul for signing this critical legislation,” New York State Professional Firefighters Association President Sam Fresina said. “We have long known that WTC-related illnesses, cancers, respiratory disease, and other conditions do not follow a calendar. They can emerge decades after exposure. A twenty-five-year window left too many of our brothers and sisters and their families without the protections they earned through their service and sacrifice. This extension is a direct response to what our doctors, our union locals and our families have been telling Albany for years: the WTC health crisis is ongoing, and our laws must reflect that. We are grateful to Governor Hochul, Senator Jackson, Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato and every legislator who fought to get this bill across the finish line.”

UFA President Bobby Eustace said, “On the eve of the 25th anniversary of September 11th, the Uniformed Firefighters Association thanks Governor Kathy Hochul for signing legislation that recognizes the extraordinary sacrifices of New York City firefighters. As we remember the 343 FDNY members murdered on September 11th and the hundreds more we have lost to World Trade Center-related illness, this action carries special meaning. Governor Hochul has shown that she stands with the FDNY and the families who have carried this burden for 25 years. We are grateful for her leadership and commitment to those who continue to protect this city.”

UFOA President Jim Brosi said, “The Uniformed Fire Officers Association would like to express our sincerest gratitude to Governor Hochul for extending line-of-duty death benefits for an additional 10 years for all officers and firefighters who succumb to 9/11-related illness. The World Trade Center pension protection benefit was one of the few legislative accomplishments that gave our members the peace of mind that their families would be protected if the effects of working at Ground Zero eventually took their life. You have always understood the importance of protecting members’ benefits and the families they leave behind. Your continued support and recognition of this ongoing crisis gives real peace of mind to members and families who suffer chronic illness, and to the families who have lost loved ones because of their service on that day and in the months that followed. The extension of this benefit should give all members the peace of mind that, despite the immeasurable suffering they’ve endured, they will not be without coverage — and their families will not go without the protection they earned.”

“The members of the FDNY EMS salute Governor Hochul for this important action she is taking by signing three laws intended preserve the health and rights of our members and retirees who participated in the World Trade Center rescue, recovery and cleanup operation a quarter-century ago,” FDNY EMS Local 2507 President Michael Greco said. “As the recent release of documents by the City of New York illustrated, early on, officials were highly concerned about the toxic environment at Ground Zero but still did not pause the essential work of our members on the front lines. Extending crucial health related benefit deadlines for those health- impacted members, is the right thing to do and we thank the Governor for signing these bills along with Assemblymembers Grace Lee, Stacey Pfeffer Amato, Charles Fall, and Senators Robert Jackson and Brian Kavanagh, for introducing them.”

New York State Public Employee Conference Chairman Peter D. Meringolo said, “NYSPEC led the negotiations which, in 2005, after an almost four-year battle chiefly with the City of New York, culminated in the original 9/11 Presumptive Disability Legislation. That first bill, which has been improved and expanded upon numerous times over the years, has helped several thousand public employees and their families. Unfortunately, the law, and all its benefits, was set to expire this Friday, the 25th Anniversary of the heinous attacks. On behalf of the more than one million active and retired public employees we represent, we thank Senator Robert Jackson and Members of the Assembly Charles Fall and Stacey Pheffer Amato for sponsoring and advancing bills to extend the original legislation and the filing dates, and we applaud Governor Kathy Hochul for signing these two crucial measures into law!”

For more information on the NYS Workers’ Compensation Board’s World Trade Center registry and other supports available to 9/11 victims, responders, and families,  visit: https://www.wcb.ny.gov/WTC/wtc-assistance.jsp.

News & Photo Features, Terrorism, Trump Administration

At 25th Annual Commemoration of September 11th Terror Attacks, a Call for Truth and Justice

September 12, 2026 krubin

*“How can it be, 25 years, and still we have no justice for the role Saudi Arabia played in your murder?” asks Terry Strada, of 911 Families United © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com*

By Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com, news-photos-features.com

They carried photos, signs, flowers and flags, wore hats and uniforms, and came together, as they have each year since September 11, 2001, as a community of thousands in order to dull some of the pain of this horrific tragedy.

An inter-agency honor guard made up of individuals representing the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY), the New York City Police Department (NYPD), and the Port Authority Police Department *© Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com*

This commemoration remembers and honors the 2,983 men, women, and children killed in the 2001 attacks at the World Trade Center site, the Pentagon, and aboard Flight 93, and those killed in the February 26, 1993 WTC bombing. For the first time, an additional moment of silence was observed after the reading of the names to remember those who have since died from 9/11 related illness or injuries, which will be a permanent part of the annual ceremony.

Family members who participated in reading the names, coming up two by two and sharing some personal tribute to their own, were chosen by lottery and admonished not to be political.

But while seeking solace, the 9/11 families are also seeking “truth and justice” for the “plotters and the perpetrators.”

Reaction from Presidents Biden, Bush, former Mayor Mike Bloomberg, VP J.D. Vance, Governor Hochul, Trump Commerce Secretary and former Cantor & Fitzgerald CEO Howard Lutnick and former Governor Pataki to Terry Strada’s call for the Trump Administration to release documents and support the 9/11 Families suit seeking to hold Saudi Arabia to account © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

During this 25^th anniversary commemoration, with Vice President J.D. Vance and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick (who was CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, which lost 658 of its 960 employees, and lost his brother on 9/11) sitting there, Terry Strada, who lost her husband, Tom Strada, a partner at Cantor Fitzgerald, could not resist the opportunity to call on the Trump administration to investigate and reveal Saudi Arabia’s role in the terrorist attack.

“For 25 years, administration after administration, including leaders in front of us here today, chose to protect the Saudis instead of standing with the 9/11 families,” said Strada, who chairs the advocacy organization 9/11 Families United.

*Families hold up photos and signs of their loved ones who perished on September 11^th . “Never forget.” © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com*

She called on Trump to “tell the Saudis to stop lying. Tell them that if they want to be friends with the USA, they cannot continue to deny all of this, all of the pain, all of the destruction that we have all been suffering through,” Strada said.

“How can it be, 25 years, and still we have no justice for the role Saudi Arabia played in your murder?” Strada asked as many attendees applauded in approval.

She urged Vance to “carry that message back” to Trump who chose to attend the 9/11 memorial service at the Pentagon instead of the World Trade Center, where he was not permitted to speak.

Her remarks drew loud applause from the 9/11 families – despite being told by organizers to avoid political speech – and later she said that Lutnick, who she knows well, had given her a “high-five” for her remarks. Others also took the occasion to call for truth and justice, and holding accountable “the planners and the plotters.”

Later, in remarks to the press, she said “They withheld evidence. They vetoed JASTA [Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act]. They broke promises, both public and private. It has been one betrayal after another.” She said that 28-pages regarding Saudi Arabia’s role were “exorcized” out of the joint report by the Bush Administration; and FBI Director Robert Mueller buried evidence collected from a raid by British police 10 days after the attacks on Omar al-Bayoumi’s residence in England that pointed to his likely involvement in the attacks, and refused to extradite him from Britain, as the British authorities wanted.

And why, if 15 of the 19 hijackers and Osama bin Ladin were from Saudi Arabia, why did George W. Bush launch a war against Iraq. “It makes no sense to me,” she said.

(You can find a 2 ½ minute video shows connections of 9/11 to Saudi Arabia at the site, 911familiesunited.org.)

Among the dignitaries paying respects on the 25^th anniversary of September 11^th, Senator Charles Schumer, Secretary Hillary Clinton, Firt Lady Michelle Obama, President Barack Obama, President Joe Biden, President George W. Bush, Mayor Mike Bloomberg, and Vice President J.D. Vance © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

The nephew of 9/11 victim Lisa Marie Terry called on the president to make documents public that he alleged would prove the Saudi Arabia’s ties to these attacks.

“For 25 years, the deep state has hidden the truth about what happened that day 25 years ago,” he said. “President Trump, you’re our last hope. Release the unredacted files that implicate Saudi Arabia while what’s left of the victims’ families are still alive to see it.”

(On Friday, the CIA declassified and released 71 intelligence reports and Presidential Daily Briefs from the lead-up to the attacks on September 11, 2026.0

[President Joe Biden issued an Executive Order around the 20^th anniversary in 2021 to declassify documents related to the investigation (such as Operation Encore files concerning potential Saudi logistical support)

*Families come together in this annual commemoration having some solace from grief in community © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com*

Speakers ended their recitation of names with moving tributes to their loved one, some who they never met, some who carried on their name and their legacy, and some offered hope and meaning.

“Although I never met you…”

“You are a guardian angel.”

“I think about what you would have been and how you have inspired… We are leading meaningful lives but not a day goes by that we don’t think of you.”

“I think of the stranger who helped her down 50 flights of stairs – their names are etched in stone together.”

And some offered hope and meaning out of this horrendous tragedy.

“Find beauty in the ordinary,” one said. “Don’t wait for tomorrow. Make most of limited time we have here.”

People *who they could never know, live on in the stories, legacy, often a name of a loved one lost in the September 11, 2001 terror attacks © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com*

The last speaker referred to the unity the nation showed on September 12, but said, “ We are a very divided country now,” and objected to the rise in racism, bigotry and hate speech, even circulating around the commemoration. Giuliani even told Mayor Mamdani not to attend the ceremony (but when Mamdani entered, he stopped and shook hands with Giuliani before taking his seat.)

*Mayor Zohran Mamdani with New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill. New Jersey lost 750 people* in the Towers © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

He pointed to people of every race, ethnicity and sexual persuasion dying in the Towers, and expressed resentment at the politicization instead of unification, adding, “You are loved. God loves you.”

A total of 2,977 victims died in the September 11 terrorist attacks, spanning across specific demographic patterns in age, gender, nationality, and occupation and walk of life: 2753 at the World Trade Center, 411 emergency workers including 343 firefighters and paramedics, 23 NYPD, and 37 Port Authority police officers; . They ranged in age from 2 to 85, with 75% being men. 2605 were American citizens, but citizens from 115 different countries also died. OF these 184 died at the Pentagon (including 64 on Flight 77); 40 passengers and crew died on Flight 93.

*The ceremony paused seven times to observe moments of silence seven times* *© Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com*

“More than 100 million Americans are too young to remember 9/11, making this anniversary an especially important moment to honor those killed, remember how we came together in the aftermath, and educate a new generation without a lived memory of the attacks, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum stated. The 9/11 Memorial is offering a free Digital Learning Experience to students across the country with a new film highlighting first-person accounts of the attacks and their aftermath.

*Honoring those who were lost at the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001 © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com*

The commemoration is for family members of victims of the 2001 and 1993 attacks and it is an extremely intimate experience, with the presidents, governors, mayors, dignitaries sitting under a tent on the side, very close to those gathered.

The ceremony paused seven times to observe moments of silence seven times – acknowledging when each of the World Trade Center towers was struck and fell, the times corresponding to the attack on the Pentagon and the crash of Flight 93, and an additional moment of silence being observed for the first time this year to honor all who have died from 9/11 related illness or injuries.

A large family came to honor United Airlines flight attendant Amy N. Jarrett from Rhode Island. She was on the Boston-Los Angeles flight when it was hijacked and crashed into the South Tower. She had just spent a week with her sister, Alisha Jarret Curran, who had just given birth. © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

8:46 AM Citywide moment of silence (observance of time hijacked Flight 11 struck the North Tower) Houses of worship tolled their bells throughout the city.

9:03 AM Moment of silence (observance of time hijacked Flight 175 struck the South Tower)

9:37 AM Moment of silence (observance of time hijacked Flight 77 struck the Pentagon)

9:59 AM Moment of silence (observance of time of the fall of the South Tower)

10:03 AM Moment of silence (observance of time hijacked Flight 93 crashed near Shanksville, Pennsylvania)

10:28 AM Moment of silence (observance of time of the fall of the North Tower)

12:20 PM Moment of silence (honoring those who have died from health effects of 9/11) following the conclusion of the reading of names

A Callery pear tree became known as the “Survivor Tree” after enduring the September 11, 2001 terror attacks at the World Trade Center and is a touchstone to remember those lost © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

The 9/11 Memorial Museum, located at the World Trade Center in New York City, tells the story of 9/11 through media, narratives, and a collection of monumental and authentic artifacts, presenting visitors with personal stories of loss, recovery, and hope. (https://www.911memorial.org/).

*The 9/11 Memorial Museum, located at the World Trade Center in New York City, tells the story of September 11, 2001 © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com*

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© 2026 News & Photo Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles,Inc. All rights reserved. For editorial feature and photo information, go to www.news-photos-features.com,email editor@news-photos-features.com.Blogging at www.dailykos.com/blogs/NewsPhotosFeatures

Governor Kathy Hochul, Labor and Worker Issues, Labor and Workers, News & Photo Features, Work & Family, Workers Issues, Workers rights

On Labor Day, Governor Hochul Highlights Labor and Workforce Accomplishments to Make NYS More Affordable, Enhance Worker Protections

September 7, 2026 krubin

Major Accomplishments Include Enhanced Worker Protections, Increased Tier 6 Benefits, Improved Workers’ Compensation System, and Expanded Access to Free Community College for Adult Learners

17 State Landmarks To Be Illuminated Red, White and Blue Across New York State in Honor of Labor Day

Protesting for workers’ rights in New York City on May Day, 2026. On Labor Day, Governor Kathy Hochul lists her labor and workforce accomplishments to make NYS more affordable, enhance worker protections © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

On Labor Day, Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted key achievements in New York State’s mission to support and empower its workforce and protect working New Yorkers. Notably, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, the Republican challenger for Governor, not only has nothing he can point to on this Labor Day as supporting workers, improving liveability, affordability or fairness, but the trump-mini-me-wannabe has nothing to propose should he in fact win control of New York State. The only workforce he kowtows to are police (already among the highest paid in the country), despite having no objection to trump’s pardon of 1500 January 6^th rioters found guilty of assaulting police, or cutting back millions of dollars in funding for New York’s police, counter-terrorism efforts and community violence prevention programs (the only one who is “defunding the police” is trump) that under Biden contributed to historic drops in crime and violence not only in New York, but across the country. Governor Hochul is standing up to trump to get back that funding, and enact an agenda to improve affordability, liveability, quality of life for working families across New York State. – Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com

In celebration of Labor Day, Governor Kathy Hochul today highlighted key achievements in New York State’s mission to support and empower its workforce and protect working New Yorkers. Governor Hochul has worked hard to ensure New York State is a safe, affordable place to live, work, and raise a family. This year, she has successfully strengthened worker protections, enhanced Tier 6 retirement benefits, signed legislation to improve the workers’ compensation system, and expanded access to free community college for adult learners in high-growth industries. Additionally, the Governor continues to lead aggressive efforts to combat wage theft and guarantee safe working conditions, delivering on her promise to champion New York’s labor force.

“Since day one, my administration has stood shoulder to shoulder with New York’s workers,” Governor Hochul said. “We have raised the minimum wage, strengthened prevailing wage, cracked down on wage theft, expanded workforce protections, created new pathways to good-paying jobs through workforce training and free community college for adult learners in high-demand fields. This Labor Day, I am proud to celebrate our labor movement as we continue to fight for the people who make New York State stronger, safer and keep us moving forward every day.”

As a steadfast ally of organized labor, Governor Hochul remains deeply committed to supporting New York’s workforce. Building on the historic achievements of previous years, the Governor has advanced key initiatives to support, protect, and train workers across the state, including:

Strengthening Worker Protections

Fighting Wage Theft: Under Governor Hochul, NYSDOL can now issue warrants and seize financial assets to enforce unpaid wage theft orders following a judgment. In 2025, NYSDOL recovered more than $35 million in lost wages and collected $2.2 million in penalties from wage theft-related cases, the highest annual amount recovered since 2015. Since Governor Hochul took office in 2021, NYSDOL has recovered more than $145 million for more than 130,000 workers.

Prevailing Wage: In 2024, NYSDOL established New York State’s new Public Work Contractor and Subcontractor Registry. To date, 14,579 certificates of registration have been issued. Additionally, as of this year, contractors and subcontractors working on prevailing wage projects in New York State are now required to submit certified payroll records electronically. These requirements help ensure that workers are paid appropriate wages for the work they are performing. NYSDOL’s website now offers a demo video, updated FAQs, and more to help encourage compliance with both the registry and payroll submissions.

Worker Safety Laws Anniversary: This year marked the first anniversary of three worker safety laws that went into effect in 2025: the Retail Worker Safety Act, the Fashion Workers Act, and the Warehouse Worker Injury Reduction Program. Over the past year, NYSDOL has undertaken extensive proactive outreach efforts, visiting hundreds of retail locations, and engaging with employers and employees to ensure compliance with these enhanced protections for workers statewide.

The Retail Worker Safety Act requires retail employers with 10 or more workers statewide to implement interactive training programs about workplace violence, including threats of physical violence, abuse, harassment, and intimidation. Businesses covered by this act with 500 or more employees statewide must provide employees with access to a silent response button by January 1, 2027.

The Fashion Workers Act ensures transparency and fair treatment for models and other fashion workers by requiring model management companies and model management groups to comply with additional duties and responsibilities, as well as register with NYSDOL. Since the law was enacted, 79 companies have registered.

The Warehouse Injury Reduction Program requires employers covered by the previously enacted Warehouse Worker Protection Act to establish and implement an injury reduction program to identify and reduce the risk of work-related injuries.

Improving Wages and Benefits

Narrowing the Gender Wage Gap: Under Governor Kathy Hochul, New York State has taken nation-leading steps to close the gender wage gap and create a more equitable labor market, including raising the minimum wage, mandating paid prenatal leave, and this year, prioritizing universal child care for all children under five years old. New York State now has the smallest gender wage gap in the nation—91.4 cents per dollar in 2024, compared to 87.3 cents per dollar in 2023. For more information, visit NYSDOL’s annual Gender Wage Gap Report.

Expanding the Healthy Terminals Act: In January, the expanded Healthy Terminals Act took effect, extending the Act’s wage rates and health and leave benefits to part-time workers at John F. Kennedy (JFK) International and LaGuardia airports. The expanded law includes an exemption for small employers with 10 or fewer employees.

Working Families Hub: This year, NYSDOL launched its Services for Working Families hub, a user-friendly, online site to help families navigate available services for varying stages of life and work. The webpage centralizes resources on New York State policies and benefits, including helpful links to various New York State agency services concerning paid leave and benefits, child care resources, and resources for youth entering the workforce.

Workers’ Compensation Enhancements: Governor Hochul’s FY 2027 Budget made changes to workers’ compensation to fight fraud and improve access to medical care. Beginning in 2027, the Workers’ Compensation Board will administer a new grant-funded program allowing District Attorney offices to dedicate additional resources for prosecuting workers’ compensation fraud. Additionally, starting January 2028, all eligible licensed providers in good standing will be able to treat New York’s injured workers, significantly increasing injured workers’ access to health care.

Tier 6 Reforms: This year’s budget also included reforms to Tier 6, including:

Lower retirement ages for educators;

Reduced contribution rates and increased overtime caps for state and local workers, including members of the police and fire departments outside of New York City; and

Reduced employee contribution rates for UUP and PSC-CUNY members in the Optional Retirement Plan.

Expanding Opportunities for Employment and Training

1. National Apprenticeship Week: New York State is a national leader in providing pathways to successin exciting new careers. Governor Hochul is committed to supporting proven workforce development initiatives, like registered apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeship programs.

Registered apprenticeships have expanded to high-demand industries, including health care, information technology, finance, childcare, education, transportation, and advanced manufacturing.

As of June 30, 2026, NYSDOL supported almost 18,000 apprentices, more than 600 sponsors, more than 900 programs, and granted more than 1,300 certificates for program completion so far this year.

2. Providing Free Community College for Adult Learners in High-Demand Fields: Governor Hochul’s FY 2026 Budget established free community college for adult learners through the SUNY and CUNY Reconnect program. Community colleges at SUNY and CUNY cover tuition, fees, books, and supplies for adult students ages 25 to 55 with no degree who are pursuing associate degrees in high-demand fields like advanced manufacturing, technology, nursing and education. In this year’s budget, the Governor has expanded the list of high-demand fields to include logistics, air traffic control, and to students with prior degrees pursuing a nursing degree. The program is also expanding to Associate Programs at eight SUNY College and at three CUNY Colleges in addition to Community Colleges statewide. More than 12,000 New Yorkers have already enrolled in the program.

3. Modernizing and Digitizing Working Papers: Last year, Governor Hochul signed legislation to modernize the youth employment certification process. Under the Governor’s direction, NYSDOL is working hard to create a convenient one-stop online portal that simplifies the process for young workers, their parents and guardians, school districts, and businesses employing minors. The new system is set to launch next year.

4. Implementing several initiatives to strengthen New York’s public workforce. Among those are:

Under Governor Hochul’s administration, the state launched the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide (NY HELPS) Program, which temporarily waives state civil service exam requirements for many job vacancies. More than 64,000 appointments have been made to state and local government as part of the NY HELPS program.

The Department of Civil Service is opening new Computer-Based Testing Centers in regions around the state. Additionally, the state created 10 Centers for Careers in Government, offering jobseekers guidance on civil service systems and career opportunities.

The Department of Civil Service is developing a new applicant management system for hiring for jobs available to the public, which will bolster and accelerate hiring practices toward matching the most qualified candidates with open positions quickly and equitably.

Civil Service ran successful multi-media campaigns over the past two years promoting the wide-ranging career opportunities available in New York State public service, as well as partnered with New York’s first Chief Disability Officer to deliver a campaign that highlighted opportunities for New Yorkers with disabilities.

The state updated qualifications for approximately 800 entry- and promotion-level civil service titles to allow for consideration of equivalent experience as an alternative to college degrees when evaluating jobseekers.

Governor Kathy Hochul also announced that 17 landmarks across New York State will be illuminated red, white, and blue in honor of Labor Day. The landmarks to be lit in recognition of Labor Day include:

One World Trade Center
Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
Kosciuszko Bridge
The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
State Education Building
Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
Empire State Plaza
State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
Niagara Falls
The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
Grand Central Terminal – Pershing Square Viaduct
Albany International Airport Gateway
Lake Placid Olympic Center
MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
Moynihan Train Hall
Roosevelt Island Lighthouse

New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “Today, we celebrate the heart and soul of our state—New York’s dedicated workforce. As the Commissioner of Labor, I am incredibly proud of the strides we have made under Governor Hochul’s leadership to ensure New York State is a safe, affordable place to live, work, and raise a family. Labor Day is a powerful reminder of the important role collective action has played in securing rights for workers, and the New York State Department of Labor will continue to fight for safe workplaces and fair pay.”

“Since she took office, Governor Hochul’s support of the public workforce has been clear and steadfast. Under her leadership, the Department of Civil Service is reducing barriers to entry and promotion for public-service jobseekers and state employees alike,” Department of Civil Service Commissioner and Civil Service Commission President Timothy R. Hogues said. “Through NY HELPS, which temporarily waives exams for many government jobs available to the public, to opening new Computer-Based Testing Centers, which boosts access and opportunities for our dedicated state employees who seek career advancement, Governor Hochul understands that a strong public workforce helps New York families on a daily basis and makes the Empire State a great place to live and work.”

New York State Workers’ Compensation Board Chair Freida D. Foster said, “Labor Day is a reminder that every worker deserves not only recognition for what they contribute, but the assurance that they will be supported when they are injured or unable to work. As we celebrate all those in the workforce, we thank Governor Hochul for the important changes she’s helped bring about to improve the New York State workers’ compensation system for the benefit of workers and employers alike. Thanks especially, to her “game-changing” Universal Authorization legislation, workers who are injured or become ill on the job will have far more options when it comes to finding a doctor to give them timely treatment and our new anti-fraud program will go a long way in make the workers’ compensation system more fair and more affordable for everyone.”

Homeland Security, National Security, NYS Governor Kathy Hochul, Terrorism

Governor Hochul Tells Trump to ‘Stop Defunding Police’ and Deliver the $87 Million in Federal Counterterrorism Funds Owed NYS

September 2, 2026 krubin

Trump Administration Recklessly Cut New York’s Counterterrorism Funding by $187 Million Last Year

President Trump Promised to Fully Restore New York’s Funding After Governor Hochul’s Relentless Advocacy and Direct Outreach

But the Trump Administration Restored Only $100 Million – Leaving New York Without $87 Million in Vital Counterterrorism Funding

Funding Directly Supports Intelligence Operations, Transit Hub Security, as well as Equipment Purchases, Training and Preparedness Efforts for Counties, Sheriffs and Police Departments

Hochul: “Here’s my message to the president: Don’t undermine our public safety efforts. Don’t defund the police who thwart terror attacks. Don’t play political games with people’s lives. Release the $87 million you owe us, because if you don’t release the counterterrorism funding, you’re betraying every family that lost someone on 9/11. You’re betraying every police officer and firefighter who puts their lives on the line every single day. And you’re betraying every New Yorker who no longer believes that the federal government is there to protect them.”

Notably, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman who is running to topple Kathy Hochul to become New York’s governor, has said nothing, done nothing to reclaim these funds, yet is running on “law and order”, “public safety”. Similarly, on Trump’s tariff war and alienation with Canada, a major trading partner with New York State, he has not dared to stand up to Trump. On Trump’s cancellation of wind power projects that would lower the cost of utilities for New Yorkers and increase energy independence which he so likes to attack, he dares not oppose Trump on behalf of New Yorkers. And he called

Hochul’s effort to protect New Yorkers from ICE malfeasance, “the saddest day of my life.” Notably, Trump and Blakeman who love to campaign under a “Back the Blue” banner (and routinely use police as a backdrop for their photo ops) and accuse Democrats of calling for “defunding the police” are responsible for DEFUNDING THE POLICE and pardoning the January 6 rioters who assaulted police.

Governor Hochul’s call to recover the $87 million I n federal counterterrorism funds still owed New York State is significant in light of the 25^th anniversary of the September 11 attacks on New York City, and the likelihood of NYC being a Number One terror target during the heightened hostilities Trump has engendered with Iran, among others, while alienating allies. – Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com

First responders work on the collapsed World Trade Center towers after the September 11, 2001 attacks. On the 25^th anniversary of the terror attack, Governor Kathy Hochul is demanding Trump send the $87 million in counterterrorism funds that New York State is owed © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Governor Kathy Hochul called on President Trump and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin to fully fund New York’s counterterrorism efforts by releasing the $87 million in federal funds still owed to New York. Last year, the Trump Administration cut critical counterterrorism and homeland security funding in New York State by 86 percent, or $187 million. Governor Hochul fought this reckless cut by appealing directly to President Trump, who promised to fully restore New York State’s funding. After nearly one year of waiting, New York State is still owed $87 million to support intelligence operations, transit hub security, and equipment, training, and preparedness for sheriffs and police departments across the state.

“By holding this funding hostage, the Trump Administration is defunding the police,” Governor Hochul said. “New York State continues to be the nation’s number one terrorist target – and if President Trump and Secretary Mullin really care about public safety, they should stop playing games and fully fund our vital counterterrorism efforts.”

The funding, provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) through its Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP), supports local law enforcement and regional homeland security preparedness efforts, including intelligence operations, mass gathering security, planning, equipment purchases, and training critical to sustaining and improving community prevention, protection, response and recovery capabilities. HSGP was created in 2003 in the aftermath of 9/11 and comprises three separate grants –– the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP), the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) and Operation Stonegarden. Under SHSP and UASI, 80 percent of the funding is allocated to local entities while 20 percent is reserved for state projects. New York State received cuts to both its SHSP and UASI allocations.

Following an extended delay in 2025, DHS released the 2025 Notice of Funding Opportunity for HSGP, giving states the ability to access this critical funding. However, despite being the nation’s number one terrorist target, New York’s allocation was cut by 40 percent ($87 million). Then, without notice nor explanation, New York was cut an additional $100 million when DHS issued the awards on September 27, 2025. After dogged advocacy by Governor Hochul, President Trump committed to reversing these misguided cuts in October of 2025, when he stated on Truth Social that he was “…pleased to advise that [he] reversed the cuts made to Homeland Security and Counterterrorism for New York City and State. It was [his] Honor to do so. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” Almost one year later, New York State has only received $100 million of the amount owed following an order by a federal judge, with nearly $87 million outstanding.

Specifically, access to the remaining $87 million would ensure full funding of:

The NYPD’s intelligence analysts and counterterrorism unit;
The FDNY’s interoperable communication and radiological response capabilities;
Joint Task Force Empire Shield which is responsible for the New York National Guard presence in transit hubs.
New York State’s 12 certified bomb squads; and
Equipment purchases, training, exercises and preparedness efforts for counties, sheriffs and local police departments.

“Ten days away from the 25th anniversary of 9/11, the worst attack on American soil since Pearl Harbor, the horrors are still vivid for the families who lost loved ones that morning, and for the families who are still losing loved ones due to 9/11 illnesses all these years later, and for the courageous first responders still haunted by the images and the aftermath of that day,” Governor Hochul stated. “And yet today, after a quarter century of successfully thwarting other attacks on our homeland, our brave police and firefighters learn that the Trump administration is abandoning them. That’s right. Donald Trump withholding funding intended to keep New Yorkers safe from another terrorism attack, and that’s exactly why we’re standing here together today, to stand up and fight back against the unprecedented, reckless and dangerous decisions being made in Washington.

“The Department of Homeland Security, the agency created in response to 9/11, is withholding 40 percent of New York State’s counterterrorism funding. Yes, 40 percent. That’s from New York State, the number one terror target in the nation, a place where, just recently, a terror plot against our state capital was uncovered. That 40 percent adds up to $87 million. That’s $87 million they owe us.

“Let me translate that in real simple terms: Donald Trump is defunding the police. Defunding the NYPD intelligence analysts who foil the attacks. Defunding the brave members of FDNY who run into the fire while the rest of us are running out. Defunding the National Guard, the units who protect the major transit hubs. Defunding bomb squads. Defunding police departments and sheriff’s offices from Long Island to Westchester to Buffalo.

“In New York City alone, over the last three years, the teams used these funds that have been responsible for 145 major arrests, disruptions and leads across 10 states. You know what that translates into? Lives saved, tragedies averted, because of those highly specialized units. And now, Donald Trump is refusing to release the funds that those teams so desperately need. In so doing, Donald Trump broke a promise that he made last October, when I asked him — after there were the initial cuts of $187 million cut from our Homeland Security grant, I called him up, asked him if he would restore it — he said he’d look into it, but in his usual way of communicating, he posted on Truth Social, “It was an honor to reverse those cuts.”

“Yet today, another broken promise, a year later, we’re still waiting for the money. Mr. “Make America Safe” still talks about big game on law enforcement, talks big about protecting our law enforcement, our police. Instead of breaking up terror plots, he’s breaking up innocent families, detaining children. He even sent DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin to New York City today, to hold a press conference at this very moment. Perhaps to spare the Trump administration the embarrassment of literally defunding the police, he should walk right over here now, with a check for $87 million that our first responders and our counterterrorism officials are owed. Don’t see him. Another example of Donald Trump endangering public safety to yet again extract revenge on a blue state. It’s wrong, and he should work with me to keep people safe, not make them more vulnerable to terrorism attacks and crimes.

“And I’ll work with anyone — Democrat, Republican — to get the job done. I’ve made record investments in law enforcement and public safety — nearly $4 billion in the last five years. I’ve worked across the aisle to strengthen our laws and keep violent offenders across the streets, and it’s paying off with crime hitting all-time lows across the state. We’ve come too far to let this reckless federal government jeopardize all of our progress and the vital work that is still ahead.

“So here’s my message to the president: Don’t undermine our public safety efforts. Don’t defund the police who thwart terror attacks. Don’t play political games with people’s lives. Release the $87 million you owe us, because if you don’t release the counterterrorism funding, you’re betraying every family that lost someone on 9/11. You’re betraying every police officer and firefighter who puts their lives on the line every single day. And you’re betraying every New Yorker who no longer believes that the federal government is there to protect them.

“In 10 days, we’ll see and say the words “never forget,” 25 years after 9/11. Those words still mean something to us, still demand something of us. They demand that we remember those who we lost, honor the sacrifices that were made, and do everything in our power to ensure that it never, ever happens again,” Governor Hochul stated during a press conference.

New York State continues to be the nation’s number one terrorist target and just underwent a historic summer of mass gathering events with the FIFA World Cup, International Naval Review, America 250 celebrations, and New York Knicks’ championship run and parade. This required an unprecedented safety and security preparedness effort coordinated with State and City officials to ensure the safety and security of all New Yorkers and visitors. If the federal government refuses to fully fund the State’s counterterrorism efforts, it puts future planning, coordination and security at risk.

UASI Funding Cut

In New York, UASI funding is reserved for jurisdictions within the New York City metropolitan areas to sustain and enhance critical anti-terrorism and intelligence sharing programs. Allocations are determined by New York’s Urban Area Working Group (UAWG) which is comprised of New York City, Nassau County, Suffolk County, Westchester County, the City of Yonkers and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

Estimated UASI Cuts by UAWG Member:

City of Yonkers	-$947,959
Nassau County	-$947,959
NYC	-$55,671,592
Port Authority	-$3,814,724
Suffolk County	-$947,959
Westchester County	-$947,959
Total	-$63,278,152

SHSP Cut

In New York, SHSP funding is directed to every county and the City of New York to support planning, equipment purchases, training, and other homeland security initiatives. Funding distributions are formula based and ensure funding goes to every county in New York State.

New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Terry O’Leary stated, “Governor Hochul has made record investments in the State’s emergency preparedness and counterterrorism efforts, but New York State cannot do this alone. Having a commitment from our federal partners to fight terrorism is critical when it comes to the State’s preparedness capabilities, and any further delay in fully funding these efforts is putting the safety and security of all New Yorkers at risk.”

“Counterterrorism funding is a critical part of that work, supporting the intelligence, training, planning, and coordination that strengthens our emergency preparedness across the city. New York City has shown time and again that we are ready to meet the moment, and we need our federal partners to uphold their commitment and provide the resources necessary to keep New Yorkers safe,” New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Christina Farrell said,

Governor Kathy Hochul, Gun Violence Prevention, New York State politics, Public Safety-Crime-Law Enforcement

While Trump, Blakeman Crow Over Crime Rates, Governor Hochul Touts Her $4 Billion Investment in Public Safety – And Brings Receipts

August 14, 2026 krubin

***While Trump, Blakeman Expected to Crow Over Crime Rates, Governor Hochul Touts Declines & Her $4 Billion Investment in Public Safety***

During his visit to Nassau County to backslap County Executive Bruce Blakeman and give his blessing to Blakeman’s run to depose Kathy Hochul as New York State governor, Trump was expected to tout a continued decline in crime and Blakeman, who pitches himself as a law-and-order candidate, was expected to take credit for any drop in crime.

However, crime rates have been declining since peaking during the coronavirus pandemic, and was coming down during the administrations of Democrats President Joe Biden, Governor Kathy Hochul, and County Executive Laura Curran, when Nassau County was designated “the safest county of its size in the USA.”

Indeed, Governor Hochul today updated New Yorkers on her record investments in public safety, which have contributed to a significant reduction in crime and gun violence throughout her tenure. To date, the Governor has invested nearly $4 billion in public safety initiatives — including gun violence prevention, subway safety, hate crime prevention, and border security — while providing historic support for local and state law enforcement from Long Island to Buffalo. As a result, New York State has seen a 10 percent decrease in index crime, with reductions across all seven crime categories and a more than 60 percent decline in shooting deaths since the Governor’s first full year in office.

“Keeping New Yorkers safe has been my top priority since taking office,” Governor Hochul said. “While the Trump administration has cut funding for critical counterterrorism and transit security initiatives and made concessions to the gun lobby, we’ve invested nearly $4 billion in statewide public safety programs and driven crime rates to record lows. As Governor, I remain committed to doing everything in my power to protect New York communities — with or without support from Washington.”

As a result, between January through March 2026 compared to the same time period in 2022, New York State has seen a 10 percent decrease in total index crime, with reductions across all seven categories. This includes the four violent offense classifications — murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault — which fell by 15 percent, and the three property offense classifications — burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft — which decreased by 9 percent.

Additional highlights include a 57 percent decrease in murders, a 28 percent decrease in burglaries, and a 19 percent decrease in motor vehicle thefts.

From January through July 2026, compared to the same period in 2022, New York State saw a 57 percent reduction in shooting incidents with injury, a 57 percent decline in the number of individuals shot, and a 62 percent decrease in shooting deaths.

Highlights of Governor Hochul’s investments in public safety include:

More than $1 billion for gun violence prevention programs, $202 million for law enforcement technology and equipment upgrades, and nearly $50 million in other support, including $25 million to replace an antiquated records management system still used by police agencies across the state;
More than $680 million for aid to prosecution;
More than $667 million for aid to defense, including alternatives to incarceration, pre-trial services, and re-entry programs;
More than $300 million invested in subway safety for increased law enforcement presence, safety upgrades, and SCOUT teams, reducing summer transit crimes to historic lows;
$165 million for Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes grants;
$120 million to combat retail theft; and
$12 million for border security and safety.

For the FY27 fiscal year, Governor Hochul continued her record investments in public safety with:

$352 million in gun violence prevention grants;
$122 million to continue the increase of police presence on platforms and trains;
$35 million for Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes (SCAHC) program;
$14 million for law enforcement and correctional activities performed by county sheriffs;
$6.7 million increase for upgrades to DNA and drug analysis technology and accreditation and proficiency testing;
$5 million for the State Police to develop a comprehensive plan for drone technology;
$4.5 million to expand the Crime Analysis Center (CAC) network and complete statewide coverage by establishing a new center in Westchester County;
$4.5 million to prevent and combat deed theft;
$2 million to expand the State Police’s Auto Theft Unit (ATU); and
$500,000 for a task force to protect from the threat of homegrown 3-D printed guns.

Anti-Trump Activism, Democrats, New York State politics, News & Photo Features

Nassau County Activists Who Know Him Best Turn Out to Oppose Bruce Blakeman for NYS Governor Ahead of Trump Visit

August 14, 2026 krubin

by Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Nassau County Democrats organized a rally opposing Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s candidacy for New York State Governor, and the visit by Donald Trump to bolster him. The rally took place from 10 a.m and dispersed before noon.

A second rally outside the NCPD for Training & Intelligence organized by local community organizers, immigrant rights advocates and faith leaders was supposed to be held at 2 pm at that designated “free speech” zone, including New York Communities for Change, New York Immigration Coalition, and National Day Laborer Organizing Network.

But when we attempted to get to the 2 pm rally, access to the “free speech zone” was blocked by Nassau County Police who had put a miles-wide perimeter of closed streets and roadways around the area.

Trump was scheduled to tour county law enforcement facilities, including the Nassau County Police Academy Center for Training and Intelligence on Law Enforcement Way and the Bolla Training Village, in Garden City, Friday, in keeping with Blakeman’s law-and-order visage.

Some tickets were supposed to be available to the public for the president’s remarks by registering online via a White House link but were hard to come by.

Requests for media credentials were also denied.

Frederick K. Brewington, a prominent Nassau County-based civil rights attorney, community advocate, and litigator, addresses Nassau County Democrats’ rally opposing Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, MAGA candidate for NYS governor © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

State Senator Michaelle C. Solages (AD-22): “People in our community are getting picked up by ICE. Blakeman & Trump think we are inhuman. We are grateful for Governor Hochul for implementing protection” © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Former NYC Councilmember Adrienne Adams, Democratic candidate for Lt. Governor with Governor Kathy Hochul: “Blakeman brags about how closely he works with Trump. Blakeman is running for governor to take their MAGA partnership statewide. Trump ripped away healthcare from nearly 500,000 New Yorkers; Blakeman said he would take Medicaid cuts further. He would make New York sicker.”

Former NYC Councilmember Adrienne Adams, Democratic candidate for Lt. Governor with Governor Kathy Hochul: “New Yorkers need a fighter, not a MAGA enabler who will roll over for Trump. Governor Hochul is fighting to keep communities safe, healthier, with dignity.” © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages (D-Valley Stream) blows a whole in Bruce Blakeman’s crime-fighting, public safety spiel. “Nassau became the safest county of its size under Democrat Laura Curran,” continue to go down statewide under Governor Hochul, who has invested $4 billion in public safety initiatives — including gun violence prevention, subway safety, hate crime prevention, and border security — while providing historic support for local and state law enforcement from Long Island to Buffalo. © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages (D-Valley Stream) challenges County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s whole campaign built around public safety, noting a recent homicide at Eisenhower Park and two in Hempstead © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

State Senator Siela Bynoe: “We don’t need Trumpian police in our state. We need to return Hochul and elect Adams, and Democrats to the Legislature. We cannot take for granted or chance. Turn out the vote. Stand strong in face of lies. Stand for people who have lost their TPS status. Stand against hate in state, county. © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Yvette Vasquez, Long Island political director for 1199 SEIU said her union has 450,000 frontline healthworkers as members – “nearly the same number of New Yorkers who lost their healthcare because of HR1 [the Big Bad Bill]. That affets all of us. People are not contrib uting to society if they don’t have a job. 20-40 people each week call to say they have lost their job. If there is no one to take care of your parent, your child, you can’t go to work.” © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

See: While Trump, Blakeman Expected to Crow Over Crime Rates, Governor Hochul Touts Declines & Her $4 Billion Investment in Public Safety

______________________________

Health Care, Women's Rights, Issues, Womens Issues, Women's Rights, Womens Reproductive Rights, Womens Rights

Reproductive Freedom for All Condemns Todd Blanche’s Vow to Use the DOJ to Advance Permanent Abortion Bans Nationwide; Condemns Confirmation of Schwartz to CDC

August 5, 2026 krubin

March for Reproductive Justice, New York City, October 2021. Despite valiant efforts by the Biden Administration and NYS Governor Kathy Hochul to provide some reproductive justice relief to the millions of women who live in states that would rather women die than receive abortion medication, Trump’s personal attorney slated to become US Attorney General, Todd Blanche, promised to do what he can to effectively ban access to abortion nationwide © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Washington, DC — Damning new reporting just dropped that reveals Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche is making promises to anti-abortion extremists behind the scenes. On a private call hosted by the White House Faith Office, he pledged that the Department of Justice would work with federal agencies and the White House to make the Dobbs decision “permanent in every single state”—essentially promising to enact a national abortion ban. Trump lied to voters when he campaigned on leaving abortion to the states—a backdoor ban has been Republicans’ goal all along.

During the call, Blanche told these extremists the administration is “putting practices and policies in place” to stop shipments of abortion medication into states with bans. He also singled out the shield laws in states that protect abortion access and allow providers to mail mifepristone to patients living in states with bans, promising “victory will be soon, and…it will be permanent.” These promises to extremists go much further than his public testimony to senators at his confirmation hearing last month and should alarm anyone concerned with the future of abortion access and reproductive freedom.

Todd Blanche’s anti-abortion extremism took center stage during today’s Senate Judiciary Committee meeting, where senators voted along party lines to advance Blanche’s nomination out of committee and to the full Senate. In light of this new reporting, Senator Blumenthal called Blanche a “zealot” who “wants to strip Americans of their right to choose and states of their right to govern.”

“Todd Blanche is making dangerous promises behind closed doors to weaponize the Justice Department to enact a national abortion ban,” stated Reproductive Freedom for All President and CEO Mini Timmaraju. “We must believe Blanche when he says he will come for our rights. Republicans are using every lever of government to attack reproductive freedom, and voters will make their voices heard this November to take our Congress back from these extremists.”

As the Acting Attorney General, Blanche has gutted the Department of Justice’s enforcement of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, the federal law protecting patients and providers from threats, intimidation, violence, and obstruction at reproductive health clinics. Blanche’s DOJ also fired the career attorneys responsible for enforcing clinic protections and dismissed pending FACE Act cases. Just last week, the DOJ, under Blanche’s leadership, cut a 7-figure taxpayer-funded settlement to a convicted FACE Act violator.

Condemnation of Erica Schwartz Confirmation to Lead CDC

Reproductive Freedom for All also condemned the Senate’s confirmation of Erica Schwartz to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), despite her dangerous commitment to undermine abortion access and patients’ data privacy. During her confirmation hearing, Schwartz said abortion surveillance is “absolutely a critical component” of the CDC’s work and signaled the federal government could explore collecting more sensitive abortion data. The push to expand abortion surveillance is part of anti-abortion extremists’ broader strategy to monitor, restrict, and ultimately criminalize abortion access.

Schwartz’s testimony also sounded alarm bells around further criminalization of patients and providers following her pledge to ensure states are not “conflating” emergency services with abortion care and “hiding abortions” in emergency case definitions. In states with abortion bans, the distinction between abortion and emergency care has already been used to stoke fear, and delays in care have resulted in preventable suffering and deaths.

Schwartz also admitted she did not know the Trump administration had made reporting of cyclospora optional—a disturbing revelation as the parasite has infected thousands, with infections growing each day. As the new head of the nation’s top public health agency, Schwartz’s confirmation marks a troubling, continued departure from science and patient safety at the CDC.

“Erica Schwartz is the latest in a long line of extremists stacked in this administration to undermine abortion access and patients’ privacy,” stated Reproductive Freedom for All President and CEO Mini Timmaraju. Her confirmation cements an anti-abortion agenda at the center of the CDC’s work, rather than containing outbreaks and keeping the public safe. Every senator who voted to confirm her will have to answer to their constituents for handing anti-abortion opponents another ally in the Trump administration.”

Schwartz will report to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has faced growing scrutiny over his efforts to politicize the nation’s public health agencies. In August 2025, Kennedy ousted CDC Director Susan Monarez less than a month into the job, after she refused to rubber-stamp the anti-vaccine recommendations coming out of the CDC’s vaccine advisory committee, which Kennedy purged and restacked with vaccine skeptics. Under Kennedy, the country has since endured its largest measles outbreak in more than three decades, and the agency has gone without a permanent director while facing political interference, budget cuts, and staff reductions amid multiple outbreaks.

For over 55 years, Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America) has fought to protect and advance reproductive freedom at the federal and state levels—including access to abortion care, birth control, pregnancy and post-partum care, and paid family leave—for everybody. Reproductive Freedom for All is powered by its more than 4.5 million members from every state and congressional district in the country, representing the 8 in 10 Americans who support legal abortion.

Affordability, Democrats, Donald Trump, Governor Kathy Hochul, Health Care, Social Security-Medicare-Medicaid

Governor Hochul Slams Trump’s New Medicare Cuts that Raise Prescription Drug Costs for 1.3 Million New York Seniors

August 5, 2026 krubin

Trump’s Plan to End Medicare Part D Subsidies is Expected to Take Effect in 2027 and Lead to Higher Monthly Premiums for Millions of Seniors Nationwide

While Trump Continues to Raise Costs for Seniors, Governor Hochul’s Policies Deliver Savings on Healthcare For Seniors Statewide

Governor’s Expansion of the Medicare Savings Program Has Helped More Seniors Save More Than $7,000 Per Year On Healthcare Costs

Governor’s Ban on Insulin Co-Pays Saved New Yorkers Around $25 Million Since 2025

Governor Kathy Hochul slammed the Trump Administration’s controversial plan to end Medicare Part D subsidies will raise prescription drug costs for around 1.3 million seniors across New York State, according to policy analyst estimates © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the Trump Administration’s controversial plan to end Medicare Part D subsidies will raise prescription drug costs for around 1.3 million seniors across New York State, according to policy analyst estimates.

Governor Hochul joined seniors in New York City today to demand that the Trump Administration stop these planned Medicare cuts and end their crusade to raise costs for millions of seniors across the nation. If the Trump Administration proceeds with its plans to end Medicare Part D subsidies, impacted seniors could see higher monthly premiums starting in 2027.

As Governor Hochul slammed Trump’s latest plans for Medicare cuts, she also highlighted how New York has delivered healthcare savings for seniors through her major expansion of the Medicare Savings Program, banning copays for insulin, and other initiatives.

“The Trump Administration’s latest attack on Medicare will raise prescription drug costs for seniors across New York — and I’m calling on Trump to reverse these Medicare cuts now,” Governor Hochul said. “While Republicans in Washington are hellbent on making life harder and more expensive for hard-working Americans, I’m staying laser-focused on helping seniors and putting money back into New Yorkers’ pockets.”

Last week, the Trump Administration announced it would end the Medicare Part D Premium Stabilization Demonstration Program by the end of the year – a year earlier than intended. This program, initiated by the Biden Administration in 2024, was intended to stabilize stand-alone prescription drug plan premiums for enrollees, by providing subsidies to plan sponsors. Analysts estimate that these subsidies offset the average prescription drug plan premium by $16 per month in 2026.

Raising prescription drug costs that millions of older New Yorkers rely on every day risks putting additional financial pressure on seniors living on fixed incomes. Since taking office, Governor Hochul has been committed to making life more affordable for all New Yorkers, including seniors. Her initiatives include:

Expanded Medicare Savings Program: The Medicare Savings Program helps Medicare beneficiaries living on limited incomes by paying their Medicare Part B premiums. Governor Hochul’s expansion of the program increased enrollment by 20% to serve more than 1 million New Yorkers today. This program saves eligible New Yorkers $203 per month, meaning $2.4 billion in Medicare Part B premiums every year that New Yorkers do not have to pay.

Eliminating Co-Pays for Insulin: 1.58 million people are living with diabetes in New York and according to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes have medical expenses that are 2.3 times higher than people who do not have diabetes and the impact is even larger for communities of color, which face disproportionately high diagnosis rates. Governor Hochul spearheaded the most expansive prohibition policy against insulin cost-sharing in the nation, saving residents millions of dollars. Estimates show that this proposal has saved New Yorkers $25 million over the last two years.

EpiPen Price Cap: The Governor signed legislation in 2024 that reduced the sky-high costs of epinephrine auto-injector (“EpiPen”) devices for consumers with commercial health insurance. The legislation required health insurers to cover EpiPens and capped the amount consumers would be required to pay out-of-pocket at $100, making the life-saving treatment more affordable for the New Yorkers who need it. The initiative has saved New Yorkers approximately $2.4 million in 2026.

Congressman Jerry Nadler said, “Donald Trump’s Big Ugly Bill already kicked 500,000 New Yorkers off potentially life-saving health coverage, with hundreds of thousands more expected to suffer the same loss next year. Now, his cruel attack on Medicare Part D will force millions of seniors in New York and across our country to pay more for the lifesaving medicines they rely on every day. I will continue fighting to protect our seniors from these devastating policies in Congress, and I thank Governor Hochul for her leadership to lower costs for New York’s seniors.”

Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright said, “As Chair of the New York State Assembly Committee on Aging, I know that even small increases in prescription drug costs can have devastating consequences for older adults living on fixed incomes. Seniors should never be forced to choose between filling a prescription and paying for groceries, rent, or other necessities. New York has made meaningful progress by expanding access to affordable healthcare and lowering out-of-pocket costs for older adults, and we cannot allow that progress to be undermined. I thank Governor Hochul for standing up for New York’s seniors and fighting to protect affordable access to the medications they depend on every day.”

Cybersecurity, Governor Kathy Hochul, Infrastructure, NYS Governor Kathy Hochul

NYS Governor Hochul Awards $9 Million in Cybersecurity Grants to Protect 153 Water Systems Statewide

August 3, 2026 krubin

With Trump doing everything he can to weaken cybersecurity defenses – actually dismantling the Cyber Safety Review Board (CSRB) and heavily downsizing key units within the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the FBI, cutting hundreds of personnel focused on election security and critical infrastructure protection – and then blaming Minnesota’s Governor Tom Walz for Iran’s cyberattack against eight states’ water infrastructure, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul just announced $9 million in cybersecurity grants to help protect 153 water systems statewide. – Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com

New York’s Ashokan Reservoir. Governor Kathy Hochul is awarding $9 million in cybersecurity grants to protect 153 water systems statewide, the wake of Iran’s cyberattack against critical water infrastructure in seven states as the trump administration has dismantled its cyber defenses © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $9 million in grants awarded to 153 local government projects statewide through the Strengthening Essential Cybersecurity for Utilities and Resiliency Enhancements (SECURE) grant program. This funding will support communities in their efforts to bolster their cybersecurity posture against increasingly sophisticated and dangerous cyber threats while strengthening services that millions of New Yorkers rely on every day.

“New York is taking action to protect our critical water infrastructure from cyberattacks that could disrupt services and threaten public health and safety,” Governor Hochul said. “As we have seen with recent malicious cyberattacks on water systems across multiple states, these threats are real and escalating. These investments give local governments the tools they need to strengthen their defenses, safeguard essential services, and keep delivering safe, reliable water to New Yorkers.”

SECURE grants and no-cost technical assistance from the Environmental Facilities Corporation will help local governments implement the State’s new minimum cybersecurity standards for drinking water and sewer systems. The grants will fund local cybersecurity assessments and implementation, helping water systems build stronger, more secure operations.

This funding is in addition to Governor Hochul’s landmark five-year $3.75 billion clean water investment in the 2027 Enacted Budget, reflecting her comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to protecting and modernizing critical water infrastructure.

Water infrastructure is essential to public health, safety, economic stability, and national security, making it an attractive target for cyberattacks. As systems increasingly rely on digital and internet-connected technologies, the need for cybersecurity safeguards continues to grow.

Strengthening cybersecurity helps reduce the risk of a cyberattack that could disrupt utilities for residents and threaten the water supplies that drive local economies, industries and tourism.

The complete list of recipients and additional program information is available on EFC’s Cybersecurity Hub, where communities can access centralized training and resources and request a one-on-one consultation. The Community Assistance Teams are available to provide no-cost guidance and tools to help water and wastewater systems implement cybersecurity best practices.

New York State Acting Chief Cyber Officer Michaela Lee said, “The recent surge in cyberattacks targeting water systems nationwide is a stark reminder that the threats facing our critical infrastructure are growing, and so must our investments in defending it. Governor Hochul’s proactive $9 million in grants will empower local governments across New York to swiftly harden their defenses, build resilience, and secure the essential services that our communities rely on every day.”

Environmental Facilities Corporation President and CEO Maureen A. Coleman said, “Governor Hochul has made protecting New York’s critical infrastructure a priority, and these grants reflect that commitment by providing water systems with resources to mitigate their cybersecurity vulnerabilities before threats become disruptions. EFC is proud to support the Governor’s vision by helping communities assess risks, implement solutions, and build more resilient water infrastructure.”

Nation-Leading Investments

New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure, providing $3.8 billion in financial assistance for local projects in State Fiscal Year 2025 alone, including $1.1 billion in grants. Governor Hochul’s transformational $3.75 billion water infrastructure investment will bring total State grants to more than $10 billion since 2017.

Civil Rights, Civil Rights-Human Rights, Human Rights, Inequality, News & Photo Features, Voting Rights, Voting-Voting Rights-Elections, Voting, Voting Rights, Elections

‘March on Washington 2026: Defend the Vote’ Scheduled for August 28

August 1, 2026 krubin

NAN to Be Joined by Martin Luther King III, Arndrea Waters King, and the Drum Major Institute, Alongside a Growing Coalition of Labor, Civil Rights, and Community Partners in Washington, D.C. on August 28, 2026

Martin Luther King III at the 50^th anniversary March on Washington, in 2013. National Action Network (NAN) Founder and President Rev. Al Sharpton, together with Martin Luther King III, Arndrea Waters King, and the Drum Major Institute and other partners, announced “March on Washington 2026: Defend the Vote,” to be held in Washington, D.C. on Friday, August 28, 2026, the 63rd anniversary of the historic 1963 March on Washington © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

New York, NY – National Action Network (NAN) Founder and President Rev. Al Sharpton, together with Martin Luther King III, Arndrea Waters King, and the Drum Major Institute and other partners, announced “March on Washington 2026: Defend the Vote,” to be held in Washington, D.C. on Friday, August 28, 2026, the 63rd anniversary of the historic 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

A growing coalition of national partners has already confirmed its participation, including the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), the National Urban League (NUL), the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (NCBCP), the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), UnidosUS, the Working Families Party, Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies (FPWA), Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law (Lawyer’s Committee), and Veterans Equity Project, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Common Cause, People Power United, United For Democracy, Vote.org, Family Equality, In the Public Square, Bet Mishpachah, Faith in Action Fund, Faith in Action National Network, National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA (NCC), the Interfaith Alliance, and multiple houses of worship.

The Honorable Yvette Clarke, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, will be joined by a delegation of Members at the march, and additional partners will be announced in the coming weeks.

Sixty-three years after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and declared his dream for America, the fundamental right at the heart of that dream, the right to vote, is once again under direct assault. The 2026 March on Washington comes at a moment of profound urgency, following the United States Supreme Court’s decision to gut Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, a ruling Rev. Sharpton has called “a bullet in the heart of the voting rights movement.”

“Defending the vote means defending the foundation of our democracy,” said Martin Luther King III. “Sixty-three years after my father stood at the Lincoln Memorial, we are called to march again, not only in remembrance, but in action.”

“The March on Washington 2026 is a moral call to protect democracy for every generation,” said Arndrea Waters King. “We march to defend the vote, honor those who sacrificed for it, and ensure that every voice is protected.”

Tens of thousands turned out for the 50^th anniversary March on Washington. “March on Washington 2026: Defend the Vote,” to be held in Washington, D.C. on Friday, August 28, 2026, calls for renewed defense of defend voting rights, civil rights, human rights © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Co-chaired by Rev. Al Sharpton, Martin Luther King III, and Arndrea Waters King, the March on Washington: Defend the Vote is a nonpartisan, unified mobilization that brings together labor, clergy, youth organizers, and community leaders around three shared goals: defending voting rights, securing economic dignity, and ensuring affordability for everyday people. While the defense of the vote stands at the center of this intergenerational call to action, the march unites Americans across movements to confront the systemic rollback of civil rights at this critical moment. Each organization marches under its own banner, grounded in its own convictions, toward these common goals.

Under the banner “Defend the Vote,” this year’s march will bring together civil rights leaders, faith communities, organizers, and Americans from every corner of the country to demand the protection and restoration of voting rights for all citizens. It is both a commemoration of the legacy of those who marched in 1963 and a call to action to protect the gains they fought, bled, and died to secure.

Registration for March on Washington 2026: Defend the Vote is now open. Supporters from across the country are encouraged to register today at the National Action Network website. Additional details, including program information, speakers, and participating partners, will be announced in the weeks ahead.

WHEN: Friday, August 28, 2026

WHERE: Washington, D.C. (Specific location to be announced)

HOW TO REGISTER: Register now at www.nationalactionnetwork.net

National Action Network (NAN) is one of the leading civil rights organizations in the Nation with chapters throughout the entire United States. Founded in 1991 by Reverend Al Sharpton, NAN works within the spirit and tradition of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to promote a modern civil rights agenda that includes the fight for one standard of justice, decency, and equal opportunities for all people regardless of race, religion, nationality, or gender.

For more information, visit www.nationalactionnetwork.net.