Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement regarding the White House's new National Action Plan for Combating Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis

Congressman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), the Ranking Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Senior Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, issued the following statement in response to reports of Iranian hackers infiltrating a dam in Rye, NY

Congressman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, is pleased to announce that following his formal request, the Small Business Association (SBA) will be opening a new Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Westchester County to help New Yorkers affected by Superstorm Sandy request low-interest disaster loans

Congressman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, voted in favor of the Omnibus spending package that will fund the government for fiscal year 2016

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement regarding the inclusion in the 2016 omnibus appropriations measure of $750 million to address the root causes of child migration from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras

Congressman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, voted for the Protect Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act

In a letter to Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew, Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affair and his colleagues called for action on this issue as the United States chairs today's United Nations Security Council summit dealing with the financing of terrorism

U.S. Representatives Nita Lowey (D-NY), Peter Roskam (R-IL), Eliot Engel (D-NY), and Ed Royce (R-CA) introduced a resolution (H.R. 567) expressing opposition to new guidelines issued by the European Commission to start labeling certain Israeli products imported into European Union (EU) countries as "product from the West Bank (Israeli settlement)"

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement regarding the decision by the Millennium Challenge Corporation Board to select Kosovo as eligible to begin developing an MCC Compact

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following remarks at a full Committee hearing on the future of U.S.-Pakistan relations

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today delivered the following remarks in the United States House of Representatives supporting the Hizballah International Financing Prevention Act of 2015 (H.R.2297)

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement regarding the announced sale of American military equipment and munitions to Taiwan

Congressman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, encourages constituents to sign up for health insurance through NY State of Health, the official health insurance marketplace for New Yorkers

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today delivered the following remarks in the United States House of Representatives supporting freedom of press in Latin America and the Caribbean and condemning violations of press freedom and violence against journalists, bloggers, and individuals exercising their right to the freedom of speech (H.Res.536)

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, delivered the following floor remarks in the United States House of Representatives supporting the Combat Terrorist Use of Social Media Act of 2015 (H.R. 3654)

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and a senior Member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, today made the following statement on the agreement reached in Paris to combat climate change

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement echoing a letter from 17 Latino Members of Congress urging Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) to stop blocking the confirmation of Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Roberta Jacobson as United States Ambassador to Mexico

Congressman Eliot L. Engel, a senior Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, commemorated the abolition of slavery in America on the 150th anniversary of the 13th amendment and called for renewed commitment to equality through a full restoration of the Voting Rights Act

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, delivered the following remarks at a special House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Hearing in Washington

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, delivered the following statement at a full Committee markup of legislation to authorize the direct provision of defense articles, defense services, and related training to the Kurdistan Regional Government, and for other purposes (H.R.1654), the Combat Terrorist Use of Social Media Act of 2015 (H.R.3654), the Taiwan Naval Support Act (H.R.4154), legislation condemning the use of toxic chemicals as weapons in the Syrian Arab Republic (H.Res.346), and legislation supporting freedom of the press in Latin America and the Caribbean (H.Res.536)

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement regarding recent comments by Republican Presidential frontrunner Donald Trump calling for an end to immigration to the United States by Muslims

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, delivered the following floor remarks in support of the Foreign Aid Transparency and Accountability Act of 2015

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, delivered the following remarks at the Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations Subcommittee hearing on drug resistant tuberculosis, and U.S. efforts to fight this global health crisis

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) and Ranking Member Eliot L. Engel (D-NY) released the following statement on Sunday's legislative elections in Venezuela

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement regarding the President's address on American efforts to combat terrorism

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, says the November jobs report proves the sustained strength of the U.S. economy to grow and create jobs, but he repeated his call for higher wages for working families

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement to commemorate World Wildlife Conservation Day

Congressman Eliot L. Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, released the following statement on yesterday's shooting in San Bernardino, California

Congressman Eliot L. Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, released the following statement on the recent attack on a Planned Parenthood clinic in Colorado Springs

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following remarks at a full Committee hearing on Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and how it fuels Middle East turmoil

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, released the following statement regarding Gayle Smith's confirmation by the Senate as USAID Administrator:

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and a senior member of the Subcommittee on Health for the House Energy and Commerce Committee, commemorated World AIDS Day today and called for renewed commitment to combat HIV/AIDS:

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement on elections in Burkina Faso

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement on elections in Burkina Faso

U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the Committee's Ranking Member, have sent a letter to President Barack Obama urging him to prioritize U.S.-Argentina relations over the next year. The letter, which includes policy recommendations in six key areas, follows Sunday's victory by Mauricio Macri in the country's first ever presidential runoff election

Congressman Eliot L. Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, announced he is cosponsoring H.R. 4069, the No Guns for Terrorists Act, which would restrict the sale of firearms to people who are on the federal Terror Watch List

Congressman Eliot L. Engel, the ranking member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Congresswoman Nita Lowey, ranking member on the House Appropriations Committee, penned the following joint letter to officials at the Federal Energy and Regulatory Commission (FERC) and Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) calling for an independent risk assessment for SPECTRA's proposed Algonquin Incremental Market Expansion Project

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement marking the 20th anniversary of the Dayton Peace Accords

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today released the following statement regarding the ongoing hostage situation at the Radisson Blu hotel in Mali

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and co-chair of the House TB Elimination Caucus, made the following statement applauding the Stop TB Partnership's launch of the new Global Plan to End TB 2016 -2020: The Paradigm Shift

Congressman Eliot L. Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, was awarded a perfect 100% on the National Food Policy Scorecard: 2015 Progress Report, which tracks Congressional support for healthy and sustainable food policies

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, delivered the following remarks at a joint hearing of the House Homeland Security and Foreign Affairs Committees on the rise of radicalism, growing terrorist sanctuaries, and the threat to the United States and American interests abroad

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, delivered the following remarks on the Jewish history in Israel at an event sponsored by the Simon Wiesenthal Center

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) and Ranking Member Eliot Engel (D-CA), released the following statement after the House passed H. Res. 524, a bipartisan resolution they introduced, which condemns the recent terror attacks in Paris that claimed 129 lives

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement on the House floor in support of a resolution that condemns the recent terrorist attacks in Paris

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement at the full Committee hearing on women and technology, increasing opportunity, and driving international development

Congressman Eliot Engel (NY-16), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-10), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet, sent the following letter urging the Department of Justice to give "fair consideration" to Jonathan Pollard's expressed desire to reunite with his family in Israel following his 30 year prison sentence

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, delivered the keynote address at the Center for Sustainable Development Inc's ‘Inter-Relationship Between Sustainability and Resiliency' conference in Mamaroneck

Congressman Eliot L. Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, saluted ailing New York City Police Officer Owen Ortiz and repeated his call for Congress to permanently reauthorize the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act

Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement on the election in Burma, which resulted in the National League for Democracy (NLD) winning enough seats in the Upper and Lower houses both to form a government and to select Burma's next President

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, submitted the following written testimony at the Bronx Borough Board public hearing on the proposed Department of City Planning Zoning for Quality & Affordability and Mandatory Inclusionary Housing Text Amendments

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, released the following statement praising Organization of American States (OAS) Secretary General Luis Almagro for his recent letter to the head of Venezuela's National Electoral Council Tibisay Lucena urging her to level the playing field to make the country's December legislative election free, fair and transparent

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, said the strong October jobs report further proved that the economy has rebounded strong, although more must be done to improve wage growth

epresentative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, released the following statement on the 77th anniversary of Kristallnacht, or the Night of Broken Glass

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement regarding the elections in Burma

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement regarding the meeting between the leaders of the President of the Republic of China (ROC) Taiwan and the People's Republic of China (PRC) in Singapore

Congressman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY) showed his support for young Americans and their families nationwide by co-sponsoring H. Res. 505, a resolution commemorating the Higher Education Act's 50th anniversary, and by calling for an immediate reauthorization of the act with strong funding for financial aid

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, delivered the following remarks at the American University in Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of a conference marking the twentieth anniversary of the Dayton Peace Accords

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today joined five other House members raising concerns about the upcoming elections in Burma

Congressman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, wants to remind constituents that now is the time to purchase health insurance for 2016 through the NY State of Health marketplace

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, delivered the following statement at the full Committee markup of the African Growth and Opportunity Act Enhancement Act of 2015 (H.R. 2845), the Global Health Innovation Act of 2015 (H.R. 2241), the First Responders Passport Act of 2015 (H.R. 3750), and the Foreign Aid Transparency and Accountability Act of 2015 (H.R. 3766)

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement regarding the decision by the government of Turkey to allow the Committee for Missing Persons (CMP) to access suspected burial sites in military zones, areas that had long been off limits for CMP teams

U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the Committee's Ranking Member, along with 367 other House Members, sent a bipartisan letter to Mahmoud Abbas, President of the Palestinian Authority, urging him to condemn the recent violence in Israel and end incitement to violence within the Palestinian Authority

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today delivered the following remarks at an event sponsored by the One Campaign on energy poverty in Africa and his bipartisan efforts with Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Ed Royce (R-CA) to combat this issue through H.R. 2847, the Electrify Africa Act of 2015

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today entered the following statement into the Committee record of a hearing on American policy in Syria:

Congressman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, today announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has allocated $1,458,915.96 in federal funds for Superstorm Sandy repairs at Glen Island Park in New Rochelle.

Congressman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, today called the latest Republican proposal to extend the Zadroga Act for five years "insufficient," and called for a permanent reauthorization of the Act with full and comprehensive funding.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today delivered remarks in the House of Representatives in support of H. Res. 293, expressing concern over anti-Israel and anti-Semitic incitement within the Palestinian Authority.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today delivered remarks in the House of Representatives supporting H.R. 1853, which would direct to the President to develop a strategy to obtain observer status for Taiwan in the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL).

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today delivered remarks in the House of Representatives in support of the Global Anti-Poaching Act, H.R.2494.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today delivered remarks in the House of Representatives in support of H. Res. 354, expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the safety and security of Jewish communities in Europe.

Congressman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, was joined by Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano to announce that the Nepperhan Community Center (NCC) in Yonkers has received a five-year, $10 million federal grant from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to set-up a new Healthy Marriage And Relationship Education Program.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement condemning the rocket attack on Camp Liberty in Iraq.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement regarding the Administration's announced plan to deploy Special Operations Forces to Syria

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement on elections in Côte d'Ivoire.

Congressman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), the top Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, voted on Tuesday to renew the Export-Import Bank and ensure New York exporters have the support they need to compete globally.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today delivered remarks calling for Senate action on the Protect and Preserve International Cultural Property Act

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement on the recent clashes in Prishtina between the government and opposition forces there

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs delivered remarks at an event sponsored by the Enough Project on the illicit ivory trade and his bipartisan efforts with Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Ed Royce (R-CA) to combat this issue through the Global Anti-Poaching Act, H.R. 2494

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the ranking member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, submitted the following statement into the Congressional Record supporting the reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, is renewing calls for sensible gun legislation to help curtail rampant gun violence in America.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement on yesterday's election of Jimmy Morales as President of Guatemala

Congressman Eliot Engel announced today grants worth more than $8 million will benefit patients living with HIV/AIDS in New York's 16th District.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today delivered the following statement at the full Committee hearing on the Palestinian Authority's incitement to violence and the most recent wave of terror in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the ranking member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement regarding the investigation of the Benghazi attacks

Congressman Eliot Engel and Congressman Peter Welch, members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, have introduced H.R. 3760, The Offending Oil Polluters Act, legislation aimed at preventing companies from deducting losses that result from spilling oil or hazardous substances.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement condemning recent arrests in Burma and the threats to freedom of expression in that country

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement supporting the right of the people of Ukraine to freely elect their government and determine their future

Congressman Eliot Engel, senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, has reintroduced the Drunk Driving Repeat Offender Prevention Act, legislation that would require states to pass laws mandating the installation of ignition interlock devices in convicted drunk drivers' cars.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement regarding the National Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) announced by the Government of Myanmar

Following the announcement that there will be no increase in Social Security benefits in 2016, Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, is once again renewing his push to ensure every American senior is guaranteed a reasonable cost of living increase annually.

Congressman Eliot Engel (NY), Congresswoman Nita Lowey (NY), Congressman Bill Keating (MA), and Congressman Peter Welch (VT) introduced a bill that would make nuclear plants safer by requiring dangerous radioactive waste be promptly moved into storage units known to be less vulnerable to natural disasters, terrorist attacks and system breakdowns.

September marked the 67th consecutive month of private sector job growth, with the U.S. economy adding 142,000 new jobs. The unemployment rate remained steady 5.1 percent, but average hourly wages fell slightly for the first time in months.

On September 30, the House Energy and Commerce Committee voted to approve budget reconciliation recommendations that would bar Medicaid reimbursements to Planned Parenthood and abolish the Prevention and Public Health Fund created by the Affordable Care Act. On the same day, the full House voted to approve H. Con. Res. 79, which would cut off federal funding to Planned Parenthood for one year. Congressman Engel opposed both of these efforts.

"As a direct result of the MD CARE Act, the lifespan of the average American living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy–the most common form of muscular dystrophy in children–has increased by a full 10 years," Engel said. "The 2014 reauthorization bill I coauthored with Congressman Burgess improved the original MD CARE Act to reflect the latest research, enabled the NIH to expand and intensify programs related to various forms of Muscular Dystrophy, improved data collection, and increased awareness of treatment options among medical professionals."

Congressman Eliot Engel (NY-16) and Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (TX-26), today reintroduced the Gestational Diabetes (GEDI) Act of 2015, a bill aimed at lowering the incidences of gestational diabetes and the development of Type 2 diabetes in women and children. The GEDI Act, which is supported by the ADA and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) seeks to improve gestational diabetes treatments and outcomes by developing a multi-site gestational diabetes research project with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to enhance surveillance and public health research on gestational diabetes, providing grants to reduce the incidence of gestational diabetes, and expanding basic, clinical and public health research focused on investigating gestational diabetes and available treatments and therapies.

Policyholders can call the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Sandy claims center at 866-337-4262 any time from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday to request a review. Claims can also be submitted online, by going to www.fema.gov/hurricane-sandy-nfip-claims and downloading a form that can be filled out and emailed back to FEMA-sandyclaimsreview@fema.dhs.gov. Forms can also be faxed to 202-646-7970 to begin the review process.

"Make no mistake: the bills under consideration today will do nothing to ‘protect' our constituents. On the contrary, they will put the health of our country's most vulnerable women and men in jeopardy."

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, was joined on Capitol Hill Wednesday by former Daily Show host Jon Stewart to call for the immediate passage of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act. The bill would permanently reauthorize the World Trade Center Health Program, which ensures that the nearly 400,000 Americans suffering from debilitating conditions as a result of exposure to toxins from the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks do not bear any of the financial costs related to those conditions.Without Congressional action, this Program will expire in September 2016.

Congresswoman Nita Lowey, the Ranking Member on the House Appropriations Committee, and Congressman Eliot Engel, the Ranking Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today announced a $1,100,000 U.S.Department of Labor (DOL) YouthBuild grant to the Westchester County Department of Social Services (DSS) in White Plains, NY, to support additional academic and occupational skills training for 80 at-risk youth in Westchester. Of that total, 20 youth will be in Peekskill, 20 in Mt. Vernon, and 40 in Yonkers.

According to statistics released by the Census Bureau on September 16th, nearly 9 million people have gained health insurance coverage since 2013, bringing the percentage of Americans who are without health insurance down from 13.1 percent to 10.4 percent.

"Three weeks ago, it seemed impossible to think that JFK High School would be ready for the start of the school year. But, thanks to the herculean efforts of City engineers, workers, and administrators, JFK's 4,000 students were able to attend the first day of school in their normal learning environment on the JFK campus. I commend Mayor de Blasio, Department of Buildings Commissioner Rick Chandler, School's Chancellor Carmen Farina, and the JFK High School leadership team for this monumental effort, and I applaud their successful launch of another school year."

August marked the 66th consecutive month of private sector job growth, with the U.S. economy adding 173,000 new jobs. The unemployment rate dropped to 5.1 percent and average hourly wages rose by a better than expected 0.3 percent.

"We remain concerned that individuals on both sides of the debate have resorted to ad hominem attacks and threats against those who don't share their opinions. This is unacceptable. It is especially egregious to attribute malicious intent to decision makers who are thoughtfully debating the details and effects of the agreement. No matter where you stand on the Iran deal, comparisons to the Holocaust, the darkest chapter in human history, questioning the credentials of long-standing advocates for Israel, and accusations of dual loyalty are inappropriate.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the three people injured in tonight's terrible accident at John F. Kennedy High School. As frightening and horrific as this explosion was, the fact that we are only a few short weeks away from students returning to the campus for the school year makes the incident even more terrifying. I thank the brave men and women in our first-responder units for their bravery in rushing to the school to help, as well as the Con Ed crews who quickly descended on the scene to investigate the situation.

I stand with Planned Parenthood. I stand with the life-saving services they provide, and the amazing work they do for families all across the country. I have always been a strong supporter of Planned Parenthood throughout my years in Congress, and I will continue to be a strong supporter of theirs during our next round of budget negotiations this session. Stripping funding to Planned Parenthood would be a disservice to millions of America's most vulnerable women. Please know I will do everything I can to ensure funding is maintained.

In the letter to Treasury Secretary Lew, Royce and Engel write:"As you know, President Obama signed Executive Order 13619 in 2012 to hold those who are responsible for human rights violations in Burma accountable. … Mr. Secretary, we urge you to use this important tool to respond to human rights abuses in Burma. The failure to do so undermines U.S. policy of promoting democratic reforms and human rights. It is imperative that we employ whatever tools are available to address these conditions and the government of Burma's role in fueling them."

Following several incidents in my district, in April, I introduced H.R. 2031, the Anti-Swatting Act, to address this growing problem. My bill would increase penalties for those found guilty of swatting and require them to reimburse law enforcement agencies for squandered resources. This would hold perpetrators financially and criminally responsible for their actions. The bill has already garnered significant bipartisan support in the House, and I have worked closely with Senator Schumer who has introduced his own companion anti-swatting bill in the Senate.

"A flawed interpretation of the Helms Amendment is depriving women of critical health-care services in the places where this help is needed most. We need to make clear that life-saving assistance from the United States won't be hijacked by a political agenda. I'm glad to join with Representative Schakowsky and dozens of other lawmakers to stand up for women's health and women's rights around the world," said Rep. Engel.

"We are now in the midst of the longest uninterrupted period of private sector job growth since the nineties," Congressman Engel said. "Unemployment remains at its lowest level since 2008, and American businesses are hiring. But real wages – wages after accounting for inflation – haven't improved at all in two years.

"I still believe that a negotiated solution is the best course of action. That's the path I believe we should pursue. But after careful consideration of all of the material; more than a dozen hearings since the beginning of the negotiating period; and conversations with Administration officials, experts, and many of my constituents, I regret that I cannot support this deal."

"Quality of life issues are extremely important, because when we keep our neighborhoods clean, we keep our neighborhoods strong," Congressman Engel said. "Upon receiving complaints from constituents, Mayor Spano and his office sprung into action quickly, and contacted me immediately to see if I could assist at the federal level. It was my pleasure as Yonkers' Congressman to reach out to the Westchester Postal District Manager on behalf of the Yonkers residents in regards to this issue, and I was pleased to see just how quickly and efficiently the problem was addressed."

"What President Obama has proposed–stricter emissions standards for power plants and an increased emphasis on renewables–has the potential to transform our energy sector from a relic of the 20th century into the gold standard of the 21st," Engel said. "Make no mistake, energy independence and climate change are both important matters of national security. If we truly want to secure our nation's future, we need to fully embrace the type of clean, renewable fuels that are both available at home and safe for the environment."

"The Voting Rights Act is the most successful piece of civil rights legislation in history," Engel said. "Its weakening, combined with a coordinated attack on voting rights around the country at the state level, has created a direct threat to the strength of our democracy. Congress must address this threat through legislation that fully restores the Voting Rights Act, so we can ensure everyone who is eligible to vote has access to the ballot box."

"As the Representative of New York's 16th Congressional District, I am incredibly proud that these community-led wetland, stream, and coastal restoration projects are receiving this honor and recognition," Congressman Engel said. "We have the privilege of living in one of the most naturally beautiful areas in the country, with some of the finest environmental groups around working to maintain that beauty.

"As the Representative of New York's 16th Congressional District, I am incredibly proud of the Friends of Van Cortlandt Park's community-led wetland, stream, and coastal restoration project for receiving this honor and recognition," Congressman Engel said. "We have the privilege of living in one of the most naturally beautiful areas in the country, with some of the finest environmental groups around working to maintain that beauty. I applaud the efforts of the Friends of Van Cortlandt Park to engage volunteers, students, and local residents to preserve and protect the environment. The federal funds they received from this award will be of great benefit to our community and its wildlife habitats and waterways."

On the resolution's introduction, Royce and Engel said: "This resolution expresses our intention to continue standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Israel in opposition to all forms of economic warfare. From the Arab League's past boycott of Israel, to today's efforts to boycott and divest from Israel, to threatened sanctions on companies that operate there, Congress has a long history of acting against efforts designed to weaken, pressure, or otherwise isolate Israel."

Senate Measure Mirrors House-Passed Engel Legislation WASHINGTON, DC–Representative Eliot L. Engel, the leading Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today applauded the introduction in the Senate of a companion measure to his legislation aimed at cutting OFF resources from ISIS terrorists. Yesterday, Senators Bob Casey (PA), Chuck Grassley (IA), and David Perdue (GA) introduced a Senate version of Rep. Engel's Protect and Preserve International Cultural Property Act (HR 1493), which would impose import restrictions on looted artifacts and enhance U.S. government efforts to protect cultural heritage around the world. Representative Engel's bill passed unanimously in the House last month. "I'm pleased that my Senate colleagues have pushed this measure to crack down on terrorist financing through the trafficking of looted artifacts. With each passing day, ISIS continues to line its coffers with these resources, and it's long past time that the United States takes greater action," said Rep. Engel. "I hope the Senate acts quickly on this legislation so we can get it to the President's desk." Representative Engel's legislation unanimously passed the House on June 1st. The bill would impose new import restrictions on cultural artifacts removed from Syria. Similar restrictions were enacted in 2004 with respect to Iraqi antiquities. The legislation would provide exceptions to allow artifacts to enter the United States for temporary protection and restoration. Restrictions would remain in effect until the crisis in Syria is resolved and America is able to work with a future Syrian government to protect cultural property from trafficking under a bilateral agreement, in accordance with America's national interests. The bill would also establish a new interagency body and coordinator role to enhance coordination among government agencies, including the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security, already working on cultural preservation issues. It would also take steps to enhance Congressional oversight of this issue.

"The report also points out some of the shortcomings in our current efforts. Of particular note, while I am pleased that the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security have put in place public information campaigns to educate families about the dangers of the journey north, I am disappointed that no effort has been made to evaluate these programs. Without any kind of evaluation, it will remain unclear whether these programs are effective."

"I must also say that I have trepidation, barely a week after the Iranians signed the deal with us, there was the Supreme Leader, the Ayatollah, chanting, ‘Death to America, Death to Israel.' You would think that after an agreement was signed with us, there might be a modicum of goodwill that perhaps they'd keep quiet for a week or two, or a month, but it went back to business as usual. How can we trust Iran when this type of thing happens? It's very disconcerting.

"I look forward to the opportunity to address questions about this section and others to the State Department with the aim of achieving the strongest possible TIP Report in years to come. In my view, just a handful of bad rankings is enough to threaten the credibility of this report, which has long been the gold standard on this issue."

"As you know, the United States Supreme Court recently held that the Constitution protects the right of same sex couples to marry. As the United States continues to make progress toward equality for our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community, many countries around the world have yet to address their own discriminatory practices. As such, we are writing to express our concerns about recent reports that American LGBT Foreign Service Officers (FSO)s are sometimes denied an equal opportunity to represent the United States abroad because certain foreign governments refuse to recognize their same-sex marriages. As Members of Congress, we believe that when same-sex couples working for the State Department receive equal treatment at home and abroad, our diplomatic corps truly reflects the American ideals of openness, equality, and human rights," the Members wrote in the letter.

"We are disappointed that the UN Security Council passed a resolution on Iran this morning before Congress was able to fully review and act on this agreement. We are also greatly concerned that the resolution lifts restrictions on Iran's ballistic missiles in eight years and conventional arms in five years. Regardless of this morning's outcome, Congress will continue to play its role."

"An upgrade for Malaysia is certainly not merited by the facts we've seen. So we're left to conclude that Malaysia's upgrade, if reported correctly, has been driven by external considerations…Under these circumstances, a decision to upgrade Malaysia to the Tier 2 Watch List would undermine the credibility of the Trafficking in Persons Report. A decade and a half of progress would rightly be called into question," the Members continued.

"As we mark this tragic anniversary, we're reminded of the ugly truth about what happened to Flight 17 and what continues to happen in Ukraine. All that remains is for justice to be served and peace restored."

"The Student Supportive Services Program has been a beacon of hope for countless students across the country who have had to overcome difficult circumstances as they pursued their college education," Congressman Engel said. "The Mount has always done a wonderful job supporting their students. They are a great partner in the community and a great institution for students from New York's 16th District and beyond. I am pleased that they have once again been selected to receive this important federal funding."

"And I want to add to what the Chairman said. Three years ago I put in a bill, which would have authorized the aiding and equipping of the Free Syrian Army. And I said this three years ago, and I say it now. I can't help but thinking if we had been there and had done it when it should have been done, might things have been different now in Syria. It's the Syrian people who are bearing the brunt of all the atrocities that are happening. And, I think the United States needs to be more than just a passive bystander.

"The safe return of these items is great news. But we know there are many, many more artifacts being trafficked on the black market, and the profits from those sales are helping finance violence and bloodshed," said Rep. Engel. "The Senate has the opportunity to pass my legislation, go after this source of funding, and help preserve the cultural history that is under threat of destruction by ISIS."

"The Middle East continues to be engulfed in turmoil, due in no small part to Iran's influence. The Iranian regime remains intent on stoking instability and sectarian violence in Yemen, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq. It also continues to support terrorist organizations that threaten Israel. I remain uncomfortable with the fact that we have spent so much time negotiating with a country that opposes our interests in so many ways across the region.

"It's always a pleasure meeting with representatives from Planned Parenthood NYC, especially members of Generation Action, to discuss ways we can work together to protect women's reproductive rights in America," Congressman Engel said. "The unfortunate reality is, in 2015, we are forced to fight the same tired battles over women's reproductive health that were won decades ago. Those battles require constant vigilance, which is why it is so important to partner with advocacy groups like Planned Parenthood, who are working nonstop to ensure that every woman, regardless of where she lives or her socioeconomic status, can access the care she needs."

"At this point, we all know the refrain: no deal is better than a bad deal. But let's see what the alternative would be. The alternative to a deal, would surely mean some kind of military strikes on Iran's nuclear plants, and would also involve sanctions. I think when we weigh whatever final deal there is, you got to weigh with the alternative and see which alternative we like better. There are no good choices, but it's very, very troubling that Iran and–continues to do what it's been doing. And that we hear negative things from the Supreme Leader, talking about all kinds of nonsense that we could not accept in any kind of a deal.

"We remember the Srebrenica Genocide to honor the victims and to remind ourselves of the costs of indifference–of what can happen when we say, ‘well, that's somebody else's problem.' As this region of Europe heals, and I've just come back from the Balkans, and charts a course toward a brighter future, I hope the lessons of this tragedy will be a guide for the United States and for countries around the world fighting against tyranny and oppression.

"Throughout his life, the Dalai Lama has worked for a peaceful path forward for the Tibetan people. We're grateful for his example and his wisdom. And with this resolution, we urge China's leaders to do the right thing for Tibet.

"Like many of my colleagues, I was deeply disturbed by reports of realistic gun replicas being used as cell phone cases," Engel said. "It would be nearly impossible for a cop on the street to tell the difference between these cases and actual firearms. It's only a matter of time until a police officer runs into an individual holding one of these cases in a dangerous situation, and the results could be tragic."

"Today, we also recognize the Dalai Lama's lifetime of work to preserve the cultural, religious, historical, and linguistic heritage of the Tibetan people. That's why I introduced a resolution in the House, along with 28 co-sponsors, that recognizes his efforts to build a peaceful and lasting solution for the Tibetan people, and that reaffirms the unwavering friendship between the Tibetan people and the United States.

Representative Engel's legislation unanimously passed the House on June 1st. The bill would impose new import restrictions on cultural artifacts removed from Syria. Similar restrictions were enacted in 2004 with respect to Iraqi antiquities. The legislation would provide exceptions to allow artifacts to enter the United States for protection and restoration. Restrictions would remain in effect until the crisis in Syria is resolved and America is able to work with a future Syrian government to protect cultural property from trafficking under a bilateral agreement, in accordance with America's national interests.

"June was yet another month of solid job growth, and I am encouraged by the continuing downward trend in unemployment," Congressman Engel said. "As we head full-steam into the summer, it appears our economy has rebounded strong from a difficult winter. But more needs to be done to improve stagnant wages and economic opportunities for every American.

"Today is a great day, and a historic one," Congressman Engel said. "The Supreme Court has recognized the equal rights and equal dignity of same-sex couples across the country. LGBT equality is one of the defining civil rights issues of our time, and we've endured many years of legal and social struggle to guarantee today's recognition of the love and commitment of our LGBT friends, family, and neighbors. This morning's decision is a tremendous step forward for us as a nation."

"I support these things. I think academic exchanges are a very critical tool for building relationships between Americans and people around the world. I was a teacher myself, before I ever got a law degree, before I ever went into politics, I was a classroom teacher. I've seen firsthand how new ideas and new perspectives can transform a student's understanding of the world, and of themselves. And when students from around the world sit in our classrooms, or when American academics teach and research abroad, I really believe it helps to spread knowledge and understanding. And these person-to-person ties are the foundation of strong engagements between countries and governments. And that's why, I think these exchanges are our priority, and should remain so in our foreign policy. So, thank all of you for what you do.

"Today's Supreme Court decision in King v. Burwell is a tremendous win, not only for the 6.4 million Americans who get to keep their health insurance, but for the entire country," Congressman Engel said. "As a result of this ruling, American middle-class families across the nation who purchased health insurance through the federal exchange will continue to benefit from quality, affordable, life-saving health care. To date, more than 16 million Americans have gained insurance coverage because of the ACA. As a result, our nation's uninsured rate stands at 11.9 percent - its lowest level in history. Additionally, the cost of health care is growing at a slower pace than it has in 50 years. Simply put, the ACA is working, yet in spite of this resounding success, Republicans in Congress have done nothing but waste time and energy with vote after vote to repeal it. It is my hope that today's Court decision will bring an end to this folly.

"Throughout his life, His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama, has championed greater understanding, harmony, and respect among all religious faiths. As the spiritual and temporal leader of the Tibetan people, he has been a model for all of us on the importance of preserving the cultural, religious, historical, and linguistic heritage–not just for the Tibetan people but for all people. His Holiness has done outstanding work to safeguard the environment in the Tibetan plateau, to promote democracy among the Tibetan people, and to champion non-violent conflict resolution," said Rep. Engel. "This resolution reaffirms the unwavering friendship between the Tibetan people and the United States, and I'm proud to offer it along with Representatives Salmon, Pitts and McGovern."

"The legislation the Committee approved today, of which I'm proud to be the lead Democratic sponsor, aims to do just that. It provides the authority for wildlife crimes to be prosecuted under existing U.S. money laundering and racketeering statutes. That way, those we catch will face stiffer penalties and potential traffickers will know that we mean business.

"Progress that has been made, and I've been to Colombia many, many, many, many times, and each time I go I always feel an exhilarating feeling because when you look at Colombia on the verge of really becoming a failed state not that long ago, the United States has had no better partner and ally in South America than Colombia. And in the 1990s, they teetered on the edge of being a failed state. And over the last decade, the progress made in Colombia has just been unbelievable.

Representative Engel's legislation unanimously passed the House on June 1st. The bill would impose new import restrictions on cultural artifacts removed from Syria. Similar restrictions were enacted in 2004 with respect to Iraqi antiquities. The legislation would provide exceptions to allow artifacts to enter the United States for protection and restoration. Restrictions would remain in effect until the crisis in Syria is resolved and America is able to work with a future Syrian government to protect cultural property from trafficking under a bilateral agreement, in accordance with America's national interests.

"The Export-Import Bank creates American jobs. It boosts American exports. And it does so at absolutely no cost to American taxpayers. In short, it's exactly the type of tool we need to take full advantage of a growing, changing global economy.

Engel said: "Nearly 70 percent of Africans lack access to electricity, limiting their access to modern health care and education, and ultimately hindering economic growth. The bipartisan bill that we introduced today would make a real difference, improving lives in Africa and the entire global community. I look forward to working with Chairman Royce to move this important legislation forward."

"This CBO report provides yet another reason why Republicans need to cease their constant attacks on the ACA," Congressman Engel said. "To repeal the ACA is to revoke the health insurance of millions and sizably add to the nation's deficit. We cannot abandon the millions of Americans who rely on the ACA for their health coverage – especially when it would cost the country billions of dollars to do so."

"Both the Israeli and Palestinian people deserve better than endless violence and finger-pointing. They deserve a permanent solution, with two states for two peoples, living in peace and security."

"Ramush Haradinaj has been acquitted twice by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and should be free of such harassment. While I hope this action was a mistake, I think the Slovenian government and judicial system can go a long way toward rectifying the error by expeditiously allowing former Prime Minister Haradinaj to return home to Kosovo.

"Title I is a vital program that, over the course of its history, has allowed school districts to modernize their infrastructure, improve or maintain staffing, and provide children with additional programs and resources necessary to meet state standards in core academic subjects," Congressman Engel said. "Title I funds have also been used to support preschool, after-school, and summer programming that reinforces regular schooling, and helps prepare children for the next level of their academic journey. I have no doubt our Bronx schools will benefit greatly from these federal funds, which is why I will continue to be a strong supporter of the Title I program in Congress."

"The Foreign Affairs Committee just had a hearing, earlier this morning, and we saw horrific situations of children being gassed in Syria. There is no good side in Syria. We've got to somehow let the Free Syria Army or the rebels–the well-vetted, moderate rebels–we've got to help them. And that's why I believe there is still a role for us to play. A precipitous withdrawal by turning our heads away because we are fed-up and disgusted I think is not the right move.

"But now, true to form, Assad is testing the international community again. In September, the OPCW concluded, and I quote with "a high level, a high degree of confidence" unquote, that chlorine was used, and this is a quote again, "systematically and repeatedly" in attacks in northern Syria. Since then, more chlorine attacks have been reported. Though not as deadly as sarin, the use of weaponized chlorine is still a violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention.

"Unfortunately, most members of the House don't know for certain if this legislation will reduce our support for the moderate opposition. Those funding decisions are made behind closed doors, and that's why I believe this bill is not the right place for us to be making decisions that have a major impact on our Syria strategy.

"U.S. leadership at the UN has headed off deeply biased and one-sided resolutions targeting Israel. We cast the lone "no" vote against the Commission of Inquiry into the situation in Gaza. We've helped scale back the number of anti-Israel efforts in the Human Rights Council overall, and the Human Rights Council has really been a joke, as far as I'm concerned. We pushed back against the resolution recognizing Palestinian statehood. And we've rejected efforts by the Palestinians to use the UN to gain concessions from Israel outside of the context of negotiations

"We're a few weeks away, as I said before, from an important deadline in the Iranian nuclear talks. It is ridiculous that our citizens languish in Iranian jails while we negotiate. At the same time, as the families of the Americans point out, these negotiations have given us the only opportunity to directly raise the cases of the four Americans with the Iranian government. And we are assured by the administration that at every instance they raise these cases with the Iranian government. I'm happy they raise the cases. I'm grateful that they raise these cases. But of course, if we don't get these people home, it's all for naught. And, I cannot imagine having an agreement with Iran that doesn't take into account these people, and doesn't release these people. It would just be a dereliction of our duties and responsibility to have an agreement with Iran while not bargaining or getting the freedom of these people. We don't want to use them as a bargaining chip but on the other hand, we don't want these people to remain in jail after there is some kind of an agreement with Iran.

"It's outrageous that ISIS continues to fund its campaign of violence by trafficking these irreplaceable artifacts. It's past time that the United States steps up to meet this challenge, just as we have in the past," said Rep. Engel. "I urge Senate leaders to take up my legislation and get it to the President's desk."

"The first responders who rely on the World Trade Center Health Program did not hesitate to risk their lives for their fellow Americans on 9/11 – we should not hesitate to care for them now. It is of critical importance that we permanently reauthorize the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act.

"Opioid abuse in the United States has reached epidemic proportions. To not adequately warn patients and prescribers of the risks associated with opioid use is not merely neglectful – it's downright dangerous," Congressman Engel said. "I was pleased to join my colleagues on the House Energy and Commerce Committee in addressing this issue and ensure that patients are afforded the information necessary to use drugs safely."

"ISIS's aggressive push north of Aleppo is an alarming new development. ISIS is now within striking distance of the vulnerable border crossing of Azaz, a vital pathway for humanitarian support. ISIS control of this crossing would threaten catastrophe for millions of Syrians and would destroy critical gains that the moderate opposition has made in recent months.

"Strong job growth continued in May, and the overall trends have the labor market moving in the right direction," Congressman Engel said. "After a rough winter, the economic recovery has come back strong. Unfortunately, wages remain flat, and the Republican leadership is not doing anything to improve economic conditions for working families.

"I supported the ATF's proposal then, and I still believe that this and other common sense regulations on armor-piercing handguns are sorely needed," Mr. Engel said on the floor in opposition to the amendment. "I introduced the APB Act to enact ATF's proposed change into law, because we have a responsibility to protect our police and our communities from these unreasonably dangerous weapons."

"Today, on this somber anniversary, the brutal events that took place twenty-six years ago go largely unacknowledged inside China. Yet, despite a quarter-century-long effort to conceal what occurred on that day, the world knows what happened, and we mourn the lives lost and futures unfulfilled.

"I am particularly focused on the ability of our grid – and our entire energy transmission and distribution system – to withstand future shocks, and also to recover quickly from any outage that might occur," Congressman Engel said. "The QER establishes a sensible blueprint to make our electric grid more resilient, and to identify and improve vulnerabilities in our current energy transmission and distribution system."

"Mr. Chairman, typically, if an American were detained in Iran, our Swiss interlocutors would have access to them for consular services. In the cases of the three Iranian-Americans, Iran doesn't acknowledge their dual citizenship–only their Iranian citizenship. This position runs roughshod over long established international law. Without consular access, we can't judge the health and welfare of our own people. The United States respects this access for Iranian citizens held here. Reciprocal privileges are the least they could provide.

The U.S. House of Representatives this evening will consider Ranking Member Engel's legislation that would limit a critical source of funding for ISIL while at the same time improving efforts to preserve and protect cultural artifacts from looting and destruction in ISIL-held territory. The Protect and Preserve International Cultural Property Act (H.R. 1493), which Representative Engel introduced along with Rep. Chris Smith (NJ), Rep. Bill Keating (MA), and Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (CA), would impose new import restrictions on cultural artifacts removed from Syria and would enhance coordination among U.S. government agencies working to protect cultural property around the world.

Representative Engel's legislation would impose new import restrictions on cultural artifacts removed from Syria. Similar restrictions were enacted in 2004 with respect to Iraqi antiquities. The legislation would provide exceptions to allow artifacts to enter the United States for protection and restoration. Restrictions would remain in effect until the crisis in Syria is resolved and America is able to work with a new Syrian government to protect cultural property from trafficking under a bilateral agreement, in accordance with America's national interests.

"In my home state of New York, asthma takes a particularly heavy toll – especially in my district, which covers parts of the Bronx and Westchester. About 390,000 children and 1.4 million adults in New York have asthma. The total cost of asthma-related hospitalizations in New York in 2007 was a staggering $535 million. The Bronx, where I was born and raised and am proud to represent part of, has one of the highest rates of asthma-related emergency room visits in all of New York.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the leading Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today delivered the following remarks at the full Committee markup of a bill to direct the President to develop a strategy to obtain observer status for Taiwan in the International Criminal Police Organization, and for other purposes (H.R. 1853), the Girls Count Act of 2015 (H.R. 2100), the United States International Communications Reform Act of 2015 (H.R. 2323), a resolution condemning the April 2015 terrorist attack at the Garissa University College in Garissa, Kenya, and reaffirming the United States support for the people and Government of Kenya (H.Res 235), and a resolution expressing deepest condolences to and solidarity with the people of Nepal following the devastating earthquake on April 25, 2015 (H.Res. 235).

"ISIS is not only carrying out brutal attacks on the people of Iraq and Syria and destabilizing the entire region, it is also threatening the incredible cultural history of this area, also called the Cradle of Civilization. As of yesterday, the city of Palmyra, Syria is now in the hands of the terrorist ISIS group and its ancient Roman ruins under now threat. The United States must do more to protect the heritage of this region, and Congress can step up by passing the Protect and Preserve International Cultural Property Act," said Rep. Engel. "As we saw with ISIS destruction in Hatra, Nimrud, and Mosel, once these one-of-a-kind places of great cultural importance are destroyed, they're gone forever. Let's do everything to save them."

"Climate change also threatens our national security interests around the world. Refugee flows, a scarcity of basic resources like food and water, and heightened risks of disease all stem from our changing climate. These impacts stifle development, undermine prosperity, and fuel conflict around the globe.

"Fifty years ago today, President Lyndon Johnson changed the face of education in America by signing the Head Start Act into law. As a former teacher, I saw firsthand just how invaluable the Head Start program's health and educational services were to underprivileged students and their families. As a Member of Congress, I have strongly supported this amazing program.

"I view Vladimir Putin's aggression as the greatest threat to European security since the Second World War. We need to demonstrate that NATO's Article 5 remains an ironclad deterrent to further aggression," said Rep. Engel. "My measure would take a hard look at the way changes to our military posture in Europe could affect NATO's mission. It would also send a clear message to our NATO allies that we take the Russian threat seriously."

"For more than four years, one of the Assad regime's most effective tools against its citizens has been to rain down terror from the skies above Syria. Fearful of Assad's barrel bombs and chemical weapons, thousands upon thousands of Syrians have abandoned their homes and spilled across the border into Lebanon, Turkey, and Jordan. They are begging the world for help. They are begging for the killing to stop," said Rep. Engel. "Our amendment would require the Pentagon's leaders to take a hard look at a no fly-zone option. While this wouldn't fully halt Assad's brutality, a no-fly zone or a safe-zone would provide a glimmer of hope for these people who have already lost so much. We need to explore this possibility and help alleviate the suffering of Syria's innocents."

"Like a broken record, House Republicans are once again stuck on rolling back women's constitutionally-protected rights," Congressman Engel said. "This latest affront to women's health care is particularly egregious, imposing additional burdens on rape survivors and barring abortions for incest victims who are older than 18. This ill-conceived Republican measure – which President Obama has pledged to veto – wastes critical legislative hours fighting the same tired battles against women from decades past.

"I view Vladimir Putin's aggression as the greatest threat to European security since World War II. Today, NATO's Article 5 must remain a credible deterrent. My amendment takes a step in tha

"Our negotiators continue to hammer out the details of an agreement with Iran that will hopefully foreclose all pathways to a nuclear weapon. And as I've said again and again, if a deal is struck, Congress must have a proper role in assessing that deal," said Rep. Engel today on the House floor. "We need time to take a hard look at any deal and make sure there are no loopholes that Iran's leaders might be able to exploit. The bill we're debating today would give us that time."

"What concerns me most is that Iran has been able to funnel resources to Hezbollah despite the burden of the most crippling sanctions regime in history. What's going to happen if that pressure is lifted?

"I remain concerned that the messages we are hearing from Iran directly contradict what the Administration has told us. Iran's leaders have said that sanctions will be lifted immediately upon the signing of an agreement, and that Iran will never accept inspections of their military sites.

"From a geopolitical perspective, it makes sense for the U.S. to look at free trade, to pursue free trade. I think that's important. However, we would do well to listen to those who are fearful that the current TPP, as written, will drive down wages and cause the U.S. to lose jobs. I think we have to listen to everybody's voices.

"As the facts of the Amtrak derailment begin to come to light, it is becoming more and more apparent that this latest horrific rail accident closely mirrors the Metro North train derailment that took place in the Spuyten Duyvil section of my district in 2013. In both instances, the trains were going too fast, traveling around dangerous curves, and were not equipped with the latest safety technology, known as Positive Train Control. As a result of this same confluence of factors, in both instances the trains derailed, and lives were lost in a terribly tragic way.

"When people ask me what lies at the root of the Jewish faith, one thing that always comes to mind is ‘Tikkun Olam.' In Hebrew it means to ‘repair the world,'" Engel said. "Repair the world. That's no small task. That's why organizations like the American Jewish World Service are so important."

"But as we will hear today, people are still suffering in ISIS-held territory. And I hope today's testimony will underscore for my colleagues the need to pass a new Authorization for the Use of Military Force–or AUMF. I have said this before, and I will say it again, and again, and again until Congress acts on its responsibility and passes a new authorizatio

"People in the Bronx and Westchester deserve bigger paychecks and better infrastructure, but House Republican leadership doesn't seem interested in either," Engel said. "It is time to restore long-term certainty to the Highway Trust Fund, create more jobs, and build infrastructure worthy of the 21st century."

"This weekend's transformer explosion is the latest in a long-history of near-misses at the troubled Indian Point nuclear power plant. Entergy is emphatically telling the public that there's nothing to see here, but the plumes of smoke rising above the facility tell an entirely different story. Indian Point is old, dangerous, and should never have been built where it stands.

"The new fiscal year 2016 GOP budget, which passed earlier this week, doesn't improve wages or grow the middle class. Instead, Republicans want to vote on privatizing Medicare, gutting Medicaid, and repealing the Affordable Care Act. Again. Instead of slashing important programs, we should raise the minimum wage, invest in our future, and make it easier for families to put away money for college and retirement. It's time to stop the political pandering and do something to bring the recovery home for every working household."

"Distracted driving has become an epidemic, and its consequences can often be fatal," said Congressman Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. "These days, there are so many personal communication devices that command our attention, every second of every day. As we become more and more accustomed to the immediate feedback they provide, it becomes very easy to fall into the trap of texting at dangerous or otherwise inappropriate times. This is why efforts to prevent distracted driving and make drivers aware of its serious dangers are so vital."

"It is time for nationwide marriage equality. From my first years in Congress, voting against the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996, I have fought to protect equal rights and protections for LGBT Americans. It is my hope that the Supreme Court will take this opportunity to uphold the Constitutional protections promised to LGBT Americans, and that we will be able to take this important national step forward in the struggle for civil rights."

In the letter, Chairman Royce and Ranking Member Engel wrote: "We are writing to express our deep concern with Russia's planned delivery of S-300 surface-to-air missile systems to Iran. If completed, the transfer of this sophisticated weapons system would significantly bolster Iran's military capabilities and introduce new obstacles to our ability to eliminate the threat of an Iranian nuclear weapon. We believe existing U.S. sanctions should be used to deter Russia from transferring this or other dangerous weapons systems to Iran."

"I welcome President Obama's nomination of Gayle Smith for Administrator of USAID and urge my Senate colleagues to confirm her without delay. Ms. Smith has an impressive background and is well known in international development circles. Her life's work and vision of addressing challenges in international development and global humanitarian issues are sure to bolster USAID's mission and complement the excellent work of outgoing Administrator Dr. Raj Shah. I am confident that Ms. Smith is the right person to lead America's international development efforts and I look forward to working with her following her confirmation. "

"Concerns regarding safety at the Project Renewal Shelter had been raised by elected officials for months prior to this incident. Those concerns were neither heeded nor adequately addressed. Today, I join my colleagues from city, state, and local government in calling for the immediate closure of the Project Renewal Shelter. The people of Wakefield have already accepted an inordinate amount of supportive shelters into their community; they do not deserve the added burden of this unsafe facility.

"I am a strong supporter of the U.S.-Japan alliance and believe that we have a bright future working together. However, I hope that the Prime Minister will take future opportunities to address history issues directly. I believe that Japan should proactively foster a collaborative and productive relationship with its neighbors by addressing unresolved issues. Japan will then be able to assume the sort of robust security role in Asia that the region needs, that the U.S.-Japan Alliance seeks to build, and that our allies and partners in the region will welcome."

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, is encouraging people who are looking for information regarding American citizens in Nepal to contact the U.S. State Department through the department's website or via email. To notify the Department about a U.S. Citizen in Nepal, visit https://tfa.state.gov/ccd and select "2015 Nepal Earthquake." You will then be prompted to submit as much information as possible regarding the individual. If you are unable to provide information via the link above, send an email to NepalEmergencyUSC@state.gov to inform the State Department of the U.S. citizen's presence in Nepal. Please be sure to provide them with as much of the following information on the person as possible:

"As the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I look forward to digesting the report's findings in the coming days and working with the Administration to make sure both State and AID are well-prepared, whether through enhanced use of data and technology, or improving the way we recruit, train and incentivize the workforce, to deal with the many challenges facing the United States."

The United States and Japan must pursue these steps if we intend the U.S.-Japan partnership to make an impact on Asia's developing regional security architecture. We need to work together in so-called "grey zone" contingencies in the East and South China Seas and the Indian Ocean. We need to collaborate in intelligence work, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. We need to look ahead to emerging challenges and opportunities like space and cyber space.

"My bill will increase penalties for this despicable act, and hold the perpetrators financially and criminally responsible for their actions. We need to do everything we can to combat swatting, and I encourage my colleagues to support this important measure."

"Make no mistake, what happened to the Armenians of the Ottoman Empire in 1915 was truly a genocide and that is clear for all who have eyes to see. Indeed, this was the first genocide of a century that would sear that brutal word on the conscience of humanity and evoke the cry of ‘never again.'

"This confirmation vote should have happened months ago, but despite the games played over her confirmation, today the Senate has finally reached the conclusion that many Americans had reached long ago. Loretta Lynch is a highly qualified candidate for the role of United States Attorney General. Ms. Lynch had a distinguished record as United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, is eminently qualified for the position, and will no doubt serve in the role with great distinction."

"I applaud President Pérez Molina for his decision to extend the mandate of the CICIG. As the United States looks to increase our investment in Central America, we need to work with trusted institutions with track records of strong results. The CICIG has had a remarkable impact in reducing extremely high levels of impunity in Guatemala, and I am confident that it will help to further strengthen the rule of law in Guatemala in the coming years. I believe that President Pérez Molina's decision will further solidify confidence from our Congress in the Obama Administration's $1.1 billion foreign assistance proposal for Central America. I urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in support of this funding."

"I want to express my heartfelt condolences to Dr. Weinstein's wife Elaine, daughters Jennifer and Alisa, and the rest of the Weinstein family on the tragic news of Dr. Weinstein's accidental killing during a counter-terrorism operation earlier this year. Dr. Warren Weinstein was a humanitarian aid worker who devoted his life to improving the lives of others all over the world. He was a Fulbright scholar, a volunteer with the Peace Corps, and was in Pakistan working to help Pakistani families escape poverty when he was kidnapped by terrorists in 2011. Dr. Weinstein represented the best of America and my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends today."

"We've all seen horrific videos of ISIS ransacking historical sites in the territory they control. This is much, much more than the senseless destruction of irreplaceable treasures in Syria, alone. It's happened all over the world. But today, ISIS is trying to erase history. They're trying to wipe out the heritage and the culture of the people they oppress.

"We have a lot to celebrate this year as we honor the 45th anniversary of Earth Day. Climate change can no longer be denied, and the United States is leading the global effort to address its threats. In the last year, U.S. production of solar power doubled and wind power outgrew all other sources of energy. We have cut our carbon emissions by 10 percent from 2007 to 2013 – the largest absolute emissions reduction of any country in the world. Renewable energy technologies are not only a tool for combating climate change, but they are also productive drivers of our economy. While costs for wind farms and solar installations are falling, renewable energy jobs are growing rapidly in everything from manufacturing to installation to maintenance. New York is among the nation's top three job creators thanks largely to significant developments in the solar installation and energy efficiency sectors.

"For over a decade, a permanent solution to the SGR formula problem eluded Congress, but now through bipartisan efforts we have finally addressed this issue," Congressman Engel said. "Our doctors deserve to be fairly compensated for the quality care they provide our seniors, and our seniors deserve to have the best possible care available to them. With H.R. 2, the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act signed into law, doctors will now be fairly compensated for their work, which will ensure that they continue to accept Medicare patients. Furthermore, this law includes two years of funding for New York's Child Health Plus program and the community health centers that provide quality primary health care services to New Yorkers annually. It's a win-win for our health system, and it shows what can be accomplished when Democrats and Republicans put aside petty differences in order to work for the benefit of the American people.

"Let me close by saying that even though Iran's nuclear program poses a major threat, it's only one part of a much larger problem. I said that before. I am deeply concerned about Iran's ballistic missile program and its destabilizing behavior in the region. Yet these issues are outside of the scope of the negotiations. In my mind, it's difficult to separate the nuclear issue from Iran's support for Hezbollah, the terrorists of Hezbollah, Hamas, President Assad, the Houthis in Yemen, or the American political prisoners in Iranian jails.

"Every year, the Congressional Art competition is an opportunity for some of our youngest, most creative talents to show off their incredible work and what they're capable of," Congressman Engel said. "This year's competition will feature students from various high schools in the district, representing many municipalities. I am excited to see what these students have created, and I encourage anyone and everyone to come down to the competition Saturday to view these incredible works for themselves."

"Today, LGBT youth and their allies across the country will take a day-long vow of silence to draw attention to the abuse experienced by LGBT students every day," Engel said. "Counseling and outreach have helped these students, but change is not coming fast enough. So once again I have introduced a resolution expressing my support for the Day of Silence and calling for more action. LGBT students deserve to be able to go to school without fear of harassment. We have an obligation to make sure every child feels safe, no matter who they are."

"Over the last few decades, we've spent billions and billions on counternarcotics programs in Latin America and the Caribbean, yet more and more Americans are using illegal drugs. We mustn't give up on this effort, but we should be smart in the way we spend our resources," said Rep. Engel. "This legislation would force us to take a hard look at our drug policy and make sure we have the best strategy going forward."

"Let this day of remembrance, Yom HaShoah, strengthen our resolve to fight anti-Semitism worldwide. We cannot allow ourselves to become complacent, and we must continue to raise our voice against anti-Semitism, wherever it might arise. Sadly, every year there are fewer and fewer Holocaust survivors among us. We must take up their mantle, educate our youth, and tell their stories. Otherwise, there is a far greater risk of history repeating itself. Today, I remember the victims of the Holocaust, and I say ‘never again'."

"I have always said our doctors deserve to be fairly compensated for the quality care they provide to seniors, but the SGR formula in place to calculate compensation for Medicare physicians has failed to do that for years," Congressman Engel said. "The Senate's passage last night of H.R. 2, the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act, mirroring the work done by the House last month, finally ends the tradition of coming up with last-minute, temporary solutions to keep our doctors from facing steep cuts in their Medicare reimbursements. We have passed a permanent solution to this expensive problem, all by having the courage to end partisan bickering and compromise.

"I believe allowing key provisions of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act to expire later this year, while so many first-responders and volunteers are still struggling with the health effects of 9/11, would be an absolute disgrace," Congressman Engel said. "Passing this bill in 2010 was an enormous struggle, as it faced opposition that I would consider unimaginable from certain House members. It still shocks me that caring for those who suffered terribly on 9/11 was a partisan issue. I hope this time around that won't be the case.

"I welcome Senate Foreign Relations Committee passage of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015, and I thank Senators Corker, Cardin and Menendez for their leadership. This compromise represents a bipartisan commitment toward preventing Iran from getting a nuclear weapon.

"In my view, the United States is in a unique position to convene partners from the private sector that will be essential for the success of such initiatives. Furthermore, U.S. leadership will be necessary to ensuring that reluctant Western European allies understand and appreciate the risks posed by an unchecked Kremlin propaganda campaign.

"President Obama's decision to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism is a logical step. But the story cannot end here. Having just visited Cuba, I believe the ball is now in the Cuban government's court to respond by allowing for greater political pluralism, guaranteeing freedom of speech, and ensuring that each and every Cuban political prisoner is freed. We all must redouble our efforts in support of democracy on the island."

"In his latest outrage, Vladimir Putin is threatening to greatly strengthen Iran's air defenses with a sophisticated Russian radar and missile system. Either Putin is bluffing to gain favor with the Iranian regime and leverage with the West, or he will do it and embolden Iran just as a nuclear agreement is in sight. Step by step, Putin is turning Russia into an outlaw state."

"As the warm weather approaches families from all over will be planning their trips to Rye Playland, and we want to do everything we can to make sure the park is in tip-top shape," Congressman Engel said. "The toll Superstorm Sandy took on the Sound Shore region was devastating, but we are continuing to rebuild. These federal funds for Playland repairs are indicative of our commitment to that rebuilding process. I am thankful Westchester County was awarded this allocation, and I am certain it will go a long way toward fixing lingering storm damage in the park.

Bronx, NY – Congressman Eliot Engel, State Senator Jeff Klein, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, and City Council Member Andrew Cohen met with Bronx Postmaster Lilliam Rodriguez on Wednesday to discuss ways to improve postal service for the 10463 zip code. The local elected officials have been working in concert to address the problems plaguing the Kingsbridge Post office since 2013, and met with Postmaster Rodriguez in February of 2014 to voice concerns over late or missing deliveries, long lines, and other service issues at the station. Following the initial meeting, obvious improvements to the overall service were made, but a recent uptick in complaints to the elected officials' offices prompted the scheduling of a second meeting.

"The March jobs report is not as strong as we have come to expect," Congressman Engel said. "And there is more Congress can and should do to strengthen job creation. The economy cannot be expected to grow consistently over the long term if working families cannot afford to make ends meet.

"I also want to underscore that the challenge posed by Iran does not stop with its nuclear program. Iran has created instability across the region and supported terrorism around the world. Nothing in this agreement should prevent the United States from taking action to prevent Iran from sowing further chaos and violence against American interests."

"I condemn the brutal terrorist attack which left 143 innocent people dead at Kenya's Garissa University College. Less than two years after the bloody siege at the Westgate Mall, this attack is a stark reminder of al-Shabaab's wonton disregard for human life and of the threat the group continues to pose to Kenya and the Horn of Africa. No one should fear for his or her life just for trying to get an education. I am deeply saddened by the loss of the life that occurred today and my heart goes out to the family, friends, and loved ones of those injured and killed in today's attacks."

"DHS has made a wise decision in steering additional federal security grant dollars to New York City, Westchester County and its surrounding areas, which are obviously at a higher risk of terrorist attacks than most places," Congressman Engel said. "Every dollar spent on terrorism prevention and preparedness is a dollar well spent, and I know these additional funds will help us complete some very important projects in Westchester County and New York City.

"I want to congratulate President-elect Muhammadu Buhari on his victory, and the people of Nigeria on these historic elections. I also want to commend President Jonathan for taking the important step of graciously and swiftly handing power to his opponent, which will set the tone for a peaceful transition

"Forty years ago, we made a commitment to our students with special needs that we have not kept, and it's time for us to fix that broken promise," Congressman Engel said. "The comprehensive assessment and support services authorized by IDEA have helped close the academic achievement gap for millions of children, but we are still short-changing these students by not properly funding the initiative. Everyone deserves a quality education, especially those who need a little extra help.

WASHINGTON, DC–Leaders of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs today called on the Department of the Treasury to ramp up efforts to block the import of antiquities looted from Syria. In a letter to Adam J. Szubin, Acting Undersecretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Committee Ranking Member Eliot L. Engel (D-NY); Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA); Representative William Keating (D-MA), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation, and Trade; and Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Chair of the Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations encouraged the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to impose sanctions on importers of looted Syrian antiquities. Such an action would mirror OFAC sanctions already established for Iraq and implement a recently adopted United Nations Security Council resolution.

"I have always believed that our doctors deserve to be fairly compensated, but the SGR formula we had in place to calculate compensation for Medicare providers failed to do that for over a decade. Our doctors shouldn't face Medicare cuts year after year, which is why I am pleased House Democrats and Republicans have come together to craft a fair compromise to this long-standing and expensive problem. By ensuring that our physicians are fairly compensated under Medicare, we are also ensuring that those same physicians will continue to accept Medicare patients, thus allowing our seniors to have access to the best medical care possible.

"Superstorm Sandy was a wake-up call, and we need to make sure we are better prepared as a result," Congressman Engel said. "Coastal flooding has become a serious issue in my district, one that is difficult to fix if resources are lacking. The National Sea Grant College Program's Community Resilience initiative helps solve challenges that coastal communities face, like hurricanes, erosion, flooding, and other climate-change related effects. The research done as a result of this initiative will help improve preparedness and adaptability at a time when our weather patterns are becoming more and more erratic. I believe it is imperative for us to make every effort to robustly fund this program, so that areas like the Sound Shore region will be better equipped to handle severe weather events in the future."

The letter concludes: "We continue to support direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority toward a two-state solution and will oppose any effort to turn to the Security Council for imposing the terms of this process. Only a solution negotiated directly between the Israelis and Palestinians can result in a lasting peace. We are seeking an assurance from you that the United States will veto resolutions at the United Nations that are biased and one-sided against Israel."

"As I've said again and again, this Committee and this Congress have an important role to play in our foreign policy. I believe that's the case with our negotiations over Iran's nuclear program. And the same must hold true when it comes to our effort against ISIS. Congress needs to play its part. And I will resist any attempt to marginalize Congress for fulfilling its constitutional role.

"We were pleased to welcome President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Officer Abdullah to the U.S. Congress today. President Ghani's address to a Joint Meeting of Congress is a powerful symbol of the strong and enduring bond between the United States and Afghanistan. Though serious challenges remain, we were pleased to hear the President's ideas about the way forward in Afghanistan. President Ghani's emphasis on Afghanistan's future as a self-sufficient nation that brings greater stability to the region is a shared goal for us all. We look forward to supporting President Ghani's vision for an Afghanistan that is peaceful, and where Afghans are able to live with dignity and prosperity. The sacrifice of Americans and Afghans over the past 14 years is too great for us to not achieve this goal."

"The American public is tired of Congressional Republicans stonewalling important measures in the name of partisan gamesmanship. Loretta Lynch is an eminently qualified candidate for Attorney General, who passed a Senate Judiciary Committee vote for confirmation with bipartisan support. Delaying a full Senate vote to try and punish the President for his immigration policy is shameful, and ultimately serves as nothing more than a childish distraction at a time when we face serious issues at home and abroad. I recently joined with 58 of my colleagues in writing to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell urging him to end this charade and allow for an immediate up-or-down vote on Ms. Lynch's confirmation. Matters like the appointment of a new Attorney General are far too important to be bedeviled by partisan games. It is time to move forward on this and I urge my Republican colleagues in the Senate to confirm Loretta Lynch as Attorney General without further delay."

"Mr. Speaker, Nigeria is a huge nation. It is the largest nation, population-wise, in Africa. What happens in Nigeria is very important. What happens in Nigeria counts. Nigeria needs to send a strong example–to set a strong example–for the region and for the continent by holding credible elections and by getting serious about Boko Haram. Nigeria needs to send a very strong message about that.

"Last month, I saw President Poroshenko again, in Europe, and he again pled for military assistance–not to attack Moscow, not to defeat the Russian army, not even to push the Russians out of Ukrainian territory–but simply to hold the line, to slow Russia's advance, and to give his government breathing room to focus on other threats, such as keeping the Ukrainian economy afloat.

WASHINGTON, DC–U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the Committee's Ranking Member, along with 365 other House Members, have released a bipartisan letter to President Obama underscoring the "grave and urgent issues that have arisen" relating to the ongoing nuclear negotiations with Iran. Negotiators face an end of March deadline.

"Wars have long caused terrible destruction and looting of priceless cultural property, from the Nazi theft of artwork during World War II to Syria's bombing of Aleppo to ISIL's selling-off of ancient treasures. We need to strengthen our ability to stop history's looters from profiting off their crimes," said Rep. Engel. "ISIL destroys the historical sites of those they oppress as a form of terrorism, while profiting from trafficking cultural artifacts. The United States cannot be a market for Syria's stolen artifacts and must better coordinate its efforts to protect cultural property around the world. Since World War II, the United States has been a leader in protecting cultural property. We must continue our leadership in responding to ISIL and other threats around the world."

"If concerns around governance and transparency are addressed, then we should welcome China's initiative as they seek to join a longstanding effort, led by institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, to encourage economic development and reduce global poverty. I have long been a supporter of reform of the Bretton Woods institutions and believe that they should properly reflect the interests of the largest contributors. I hope that the AIIB will ultimately be a well-governed, positive force for economic development that is complementary to the work of the IMF, the World Bank, the Asia Development Bank, and others."

"I want to emphasize–reemphasize–what the Chairman said. There really cannot be any marginalization of Congress. Congress really needs to play a very active and vital role in this whole process, and any attempts to sidestep Congress will be resisted on both sides of the aisle.

"I strongly condemn today's terrorist attack in Tunis. My heart goes out to the families and friends of all the victims.

"I am pleased to congratulate Luis Almagro on his election as the next Secretary General of the OAS. I hope that today's election will provide an opportunity for OAS member states to reaffirm their commitment to the Inter-American Democratic Charter and democracy in all its forms. We need a new kind of OAS that will not only focus on electoral democracy but will also hone in on the more subtle challenges to democracy in the hemisphere. The OAS and its member states must not be afraid to speak up when press freedom is under attack, when countries' judiciaries are no longer independent, or when leaders disregard legislatures and rule by decree.

"I want to thank USAID for its incredible work in responding to the Ebola crisis in West Africa. After a very challenging year, our strategy is working, but the situation remains critical in Sierra Leone and Guinea. We need smart investments in sustainable health care systems. We need to help countries identify and contain infectious diseases. And we need to help people live healthy, productive lives.

"Since the ACA was enacted in 2010, we have seen a reduction in cost estimates several times, proving the hysteria surrounding the cost of this legislation was completely unfounded," Congressman Engel said. "Today, the CBO estimates that the cost of the coverage provisions in 2019 will be 33% less than what was originally projected in 2010–a huge savings for taxpayers. Add in the fact that millions of Americans who did not previously have health insurance are now covered, and you have the formula for a winning piece of legislation that can save both money and lives.

"Armor piercing rounds like green tips should only be in the hands of military personnel or police officers, period. There is absolutely no compelling argument to be made for anyone else to have access to them," Congressman Engel said. "But the out of touch gun industry lobby is fighting tooth and nail to keep cop-killing ammunition on the streets. We need to speak up on behalf of our police officers and say ‘stop the madness.'"

Congressman Engel: "Times have changed and so have the means by which terrorists incite violence and recruit membership. The Internet, while facilitating many revolutionary accomplishments, has also created a terrorist breeding ground that cannot be ignored. Our efforts to combat this trend requires dedication, adaptation, and cooperation. While I applaud Twitter's recent removal of over 2,000 accounts believed to be associated with terrorist activity, this can only be considered a first step. Twitter can, and must, do more to deny groups like ISIS a forum to promote their nefarious activities."

We write to urge you to use existing Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI) funding to support organizations in Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador that protect the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals.

"In a time of heightened threats against law enforcement, it really is disgraceful that the gun industry would fight so hard to protect their ability to sell armor-piercing bullets," Congressman Engel said. "Threats against our police and soldiers are more and more pronounced. We really should be doing everything we can to help protect them, and regulating weapons designed specifically to kill people in body armor – to kill cops and military personnel – should be an obvious step."

"The Establishing Beneficiary Equity in the Hospital Readmission Program Act that Rep. Renacci and I have introduced in the House, and Senators Portman and Manchin have introduced in the Senate, would make a vital correction to the HRRP hospital readmission formula, which currently treats certain hospitals in lower socioeconomic communities unfairly," Congressman Engel said. "Hospitals must be held accountable for providing high quality care to all patients, but as numerous studies have shown, socioeconomic factors can influence patient outcomes. Therefore, hospitals serving our neediest populations shouldn't be penalized for doing so. This is a piece of common sense legislation and I hope it passes in the House and Senate quickly."

"As the Supreme Court recognized two years ago in United States v. Windsor, ‘state laws defining and regulating marriage must respect the Constitutional rights of persons.' There is no way to ban same-sex marriage without disrespecting the rights of committed, same sex couples," Congressman Engel said. "State refusals to issue marriage licenses or recognize the marriages of same-sex couples deprive American families of the due process rights and the equal protection they are entitled to under the Constitution. And the federal courts have overwhelmingly agreed.

"I salute the extraordinary courage and commitment of those civil rights marchers, who on March 7, 1965, marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, simply demanding their right to vote," Congressman Engel said. "All Americans owe the courageous marchers of ‘Bloody Sunday' a debt of gratitude. "

"It is very important to see steady, continued growth in the jobs market, and the February jobs report shows us exactly that," Congressman Engel said. "While it is apparent that our economic recovery is gaining steam, I am still concerned by the lack of consistent progress on wages. Despite the economic resurgence, far too many New Yorkers are feeling that the recovery has left them behind.

"In less than 14 months, I have seen a tragic train derailment in the Spuyten Duyvil section of my district that killed four people, and a horrific accident at a rail crossing in Valhalla that claimed the lives of six more, including a constituent of mine. We cannot afford to wait any longer to seriously address rail safety," Congressman Engel said. "If we want to continue to promote mass transit as a more efficient form of travel, then we cannot cut corners. The Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015 is a bipartisan initiative that will make our railways safer for riders and non-riders, while improving the general infrastructure of our regional transportation systems. I have long been a vocal proponent of increased investment in infrastructure, and I applaud my colleagues in the House for coming together to make rail safety a priority and to ensure the wellbeing of our constituents."

"In Ukraine, the events of the past year and the ongoing Russian aggression threatens the security and stability of the entire region, and undermines decades of American commitment to and investment in a Europe that is whole, free, and at peace. In fact, this is a threat to the whole international order.

"I'm announcing today my plan to introduce new legislation. It will offer Ukraine greater assistance on a variety of fronts. It will dial up the pressure on Vladimir Putin for his reckless, destructive, and destabilizing policies. And it will send a clear message that the United States stands with the people of Ukraine against Russian aggression. I look forward to working with Chairman Royce and other colleagues as we move ahead with this effort," said Rep. Engel.

"I am pleased the House Republican leadership finally came to their senses and allowed us to vote for a clean DHS funding bill for the remainder of the fiscal year," Congressman Engel said. "Putting our security at risk in the name of nonsensical political posturing was always a short-sighted–and dangerous–approach to handling a policy disagreement with the President. House Republicans played reckless games with our national security for too long.

"Prime Minister Netanyahu's speech showed that there remain serious and urgent concerns about the nuclear negotiations with Iran. These are not new–and many of them are shared by Republicans and Democrats, including officials in the Obama Administration. Together, we must work to curb Iran's nuclear program and prevent them from accessing any pathway to a bomb. I expect that Democrats and Republicans will move forward together in the interest of our national security and strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship."

"We're writing this letter to reiterate the United States' commitment to combat extremism, stand strong for freedom of speech and freedom of thought, and seek justice under the rule of law." Congressman Honda said. "Bangladesh is an important economic, humanitarian, and strategic partner for the U.S. We must work with the Bangladeshi authorities to bring Dr. Roy's murderers to justice and promote the ideals and freedoms Dr. Roy died for. The people of Bangladesh, the United States, and the world should be free to engage in public discourse and expression without living in fear of violent extremism."

The letter states: "The United States has had a longstanding interest in preventing Iran from achieving a nuclear weapons capability. Over the last twenty years, Congress has passed numerous pieces of legislation imposing sanctions on Iran to prevent that outcome, ultimately forcing Iran into negotiations. Should an agreement with Iran be reached, permanent sanctions relief from congressionally-mandated sanctions would require new legislation. In reviewing such an agreement, Congress must be convinced that its terms foreclose any pathway to a bomb, and only then will Congress be able to consider permanent sanctions relief. Resolving the nuclear crisis with Iran remains of grave importance to our nation's security. As the Administration continues to negotiate with Iran, we are prepared to evaluate any agreement to determine its long-term impact on the United States and our allies. We remain hopeful that a diplomatic solution preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon may yet be reached, and we want to work with you to assure such a result."

"I have always been a strong supporter of CHIP, which as of July 2014 has an estimated 476,000 New York children enrolled," Engel said. "I believe that all Americans deserve access to high quality, affordable health care, but I hope we can all agree that at the very least, children should face as few barriers as possible to affordable health care. States are in the process of developing their budgets now, and they need to know the federal funding they have received to help children obtain affordable coverage will continue."

"Yesterday's brutal murder of Boris Nemtsov–literally in the shadow of the Kremlin's walls–is a chilling reminder of the risks faced by those in Russia who oppose Vladimir Putin's violent kleptocracy. Mr. Nemtsov was well known and respected here in Congress. His fearlessness in exposing high-level corruption is a testament to his patriotism and an inspiration to those seeking a brighter future for Russia. I extend my heartfelt sympathy to his family, friends, and colleagues and condemn the regime that has fostered a climate of fear and hatred where such murders can happen and happen with impunity."

"I'm shocked and saddened to learn of the brutal murder of Avijit Roy, a Bangladeshi-American writer, and I convey my deepest condolences to Roy's wife, Rafida Ahmed–who was also seriously wounded in the attack–and to his friends and family. Mr. Roy's killers used machetes to murder him because of his opposition to religious extremism. Though his killers have tried to silence Roy's call for tolerance, his murder has instead amplified his critical message. I urge the Administration and Bangladeshi authorities to make every possible effort to bring those responsible to justice."

Eliot Engel, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said "When the British returned the city of Hong Kong to the Chinese government in 1997, Beijing promised that Hong Kong would retain its special rights and autonomy. Beijing also set the expectation that, in 2017, the people of Hong Kong would be allowed to elect a leader through ‘universal suffrage.' Recent events, including the August 2014 decision that proscribed limitations on Hong Kong's electoral process, make clear Beijing intends instead to maintain a firm grasp on Hong Kong's political development. My concern is not just about election mechanics but about Hong Kong's future as an open society under Beijing's ‘one country, two systems' regime."

"Environmental conservation has always been a passion of mine, and that passion informs the way I approach legislating in Congress," Congressman Engel said. "We only have one planet and it is up to us to make sure we keep it as clean and healthy as possible. My 2014 score of 91% from the League of Conservation Voters reflects my commitment to keeping our waters clean, our air fresh, and our carbon footprint small.

"You and I agree about the threat posed by North Korea. I want to thank you for giving this issue the attention it deserves. And I'm proud to be the lead Democratic sponsor of the North Korea Sanctions Enforcement Act.

"Congress must invest in long-term solutions focused on economic development and opportunity for younger populations, so that no child is forced to make the perilous journey from Central America through Mexico to our southern border. In designing these programs, Congress and the Obama Administration must ensure that resources are targeted toward the most vulnerable communities from which children are migrating. As Congress struggles to fund the Department of Homeland Security, I think we can all agree that investing in the root causes of migration to the United States will save lives and decrease the Department's financial burden in the long term."

"With less than two days before the Department of Homeland Security runs out of funding, we find ourselves nearing a dangerous precipice. The way House Republicans are playing politics with our national security is incredibly dangerous.

"I grew up in public housing, and I believe it is important for government to do what it can to support the residents who live in those developments," Congressman Engel said. "The federal funds HUD has allocated for the hiring of Service Coordinators will benefit the residents of the Yonkers Municipal Housing Authority. These coordinators can act as a resource for folks who are looking to put themselves on more sound financial footing–a valuable asset, especially in times of economic uncertainty. I applaud HUD for making the residents of the Municipal Housing Authority for the City of Yonkers a priority."

"The Kaiser Family Foundation reported recently that many Americans believe we spend much more on foreign assistance than we actually do. Here are the facts. International affairs totals just over one percent of our federal budget, and foreign aid accounts for less than one percent. With that narrow sliver of the pie, we're keeping Americans safe, strengthening ties around the world, and promoting American leadership abroad. We're getting a pretty good bang for our buck.

"I want to thank my friends and constituents in American Jewish World Services for their incredible support of our efforts to pass the International Violence Against Women Act," Congressman Engel said. "When a community group–no matter their size–gets engaged, they have the power to influence things on a global scale. It is my hope that with the help of the AJWS we will be able to make the passage of IVAWA a reality.

"In recent days, I have become increasingly concerned by a series of troubling developments in Venezuela. From the continued imprisonment and human rights violations committed against political prisoner Leopoldo Lopez to the detention of Caracas Metropolitan Mayor Antonio Ledezma to the absurd allegations of coup plotting aimed at the United States, it is clearer than ever that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro continues to look for any excuse to blame his country's woes on others rather than look for real, practical solutions to these problems.

"I am fortunate enough to represent a district that is full of natural splendor, and I would like to see more of our children take advantage of that," said Congressman Engel. "Starting in the 2015-2016 school year, President Obama's ‘Every Kid in a Park' initiative will offer families the opportunity to get outside, get some exercise, and explore the incredible beauty of our National Parks and waterways–for free. This doesn't just present a fun, cost-effective family outing; it also can be an incredible learning experience, as anyone who has ever visited the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island can attest. I encourage every eligible family to take advantage of this program and add visiting a National park to their vacation plans next school year."

"Whatever happens, Ukraine's people and its government need urgent assistance on many fronts. We cannot allow Ukraine's economy to collapse and those trapped behind the front lines this winter need immediate and life-saving humanitarian aid. Also, Ukraine should get the security aid it needs to control its territory. This includes key defensive arms and systems. Nothing that transpired in Minsk this week changes this, nor does it change our commitment to see Ukraine's territorial integrity restored.

"As the first member of Congress to call for its closing, I am concerned about Indian Point due to its close proximity to America's largest metropolitan population," Engel said. "I am convinced that a nuclear facility built on two seismic fault lines, and only 24 miles north of New York City, would never be approved if it were to be built today; yet that's exactly what we have in Buchanan, NY. If a problem were to occur at Indian Point, evacuation of the region would be virtually impossible. I have urged and will continue to urge Secretary Moniz to take a close look at whether the Indian Point reactors should remain online."

Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the Committee's Ranking Member, sent a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry to express their serious concern about Pakistan's failure to combat Islamist terrorist groups operating within its territory.

According to data released in January 2015 by Gallup, nearly 13 percent of all adults still lack health coverage, despite the incredible decrease in uninsured Americans as a result of the Affordable Care Act. Health care costs also remain a concern for many Americans, as out-of-pocket health expenses, including workers' premium contributions and deductibles, accounted for 9.6 percent of median household income in 2013, an increase of 4.3 percent from the previous decade. As a result, many Americans are still forced to prioritize their expenses, often to the detriment of their own personal health.

"Thank you, very much, Mr. Chairman, and I want to thank our witnesses for their testimony. Our hearing today, takes place in the wake of President Obama sending his request for the use of force to the Congress yesterday. The AUMF lands squarely in the jurisdiction of this committee, and I look forward to working with Chairman Royce and all of our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to thoroughly review the President's proposal and our overall strategy to defeat ISIS in the days and weeks ahead.

"We must remain committed to keeping America safe. But instead of honoring this commitment and passing a clean Homeland Security bill, Republicans are playing politics with the agencies that protect our borders – just as international terrorism is on the rise. Once again, Republicans are falling back into their pattern of irresponsible brinksmanship. Even though they know that this may lead to a shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, making all Americans less safe.

As Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, we welcome the President's transmittal of specific legislative language to authorize the use of military force against ISIL. He should now aggressively make the case to the American people. We intend to conduct an in-depth review of the President's proposal, including through continued hearings on the Administration's strategy to combat this barbaric terrorist group. This review will begin with a hearing tomorrow.

"Kayla's work stands in such sharp contrast to the terrorists responsible for her death. ISIS extremists place no value on human life. They are a constant threat to our security and our values, and we must remain steadfast in our efforts to put an end to their reign of terror."

"I was in Munich over the weekend and met with Ukrainian President Poroshenko. He described in vivid detail the Russian occupation, the murder of Ukrainian citizens, the need for weapons to fight back, and the hope that the United States would provide defensive weapons.

"There are things Congress can do right now to improve the wage situation for millions of Americans, the most obvious being voting to increase the Federal minimum wage. Also, we can promote and expand vital tax credits–like the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit–so that people can keep more of what they earn. Every dollar counts, and we as representatives in government can do more to make sure that every working family sees the recovery in their paychecks."

Washington, D.C. -- Congressman Eliot Engel (NY-16), a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, submitted written testimony yesterday at a public hearing held by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ), calling for a Tier II analysis of the proposed double stack rail freight tunnel that would run between Brooklyn, NY and Jersey City, New Jersey. The proposed tunnel, also referred to as the Cross Harbor Freight Program, would allow goods to move beneath the Hudson River instead of exclusively over the George Washington Bridge, alleviating a significant amount of traffic on the Cross Bronx and the Major Deegan Expressways.

In the wake of the state-sponsored cyber-attack on Sony Pictures, the bipartisan legislation targets North Korea's access to the hard currency and other goods that help keep the regime in power. Additionally, it presses the Administration to use all available tools to impose sanctions against North Korea and on countries and companies that assist North Korea in bolstering its nuclear weapons program. The legislation also has an important human rights focus as a recent U.N. report found that the regime's abuses have no "parallel in the contemporary world." A section-by-section summary of the "North Korea Sanctions Enforcement Act" is available HERE.

"My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and families of last night's terrible Metro-North accident in Valhalla. I thank the courageous first responders who selflessly risked their safety to protect others. I am also appreciative of the National Transportation Safety Board for acting quickly and vigilantly to investigate this accident, so that we may do everything possible to ensure the safety of all Metro-North riders."

Last month, Chairman Royce and I sent a letter to Secretary Kerry. We asked for the names of the 53 political prisoners the Cuban government committed to releasing. I was very grateful for Secretary Kerry's rapid response to our letter with a full list of the released prisoners.

"I did not vote for the sequester in 2011 because it was bad policy then, just as it remains bad policy today," Congressman Engel said. "The mindless austerity measures taken four years ago have been counterproductive to our economic recovery, limiting its potential by curtailing government spending in research, education, and defense. Our economy has improved drastically in spite of austerity, not because of it. I applaud President Obama for offering a budget that finally ends sequestration, which will allow us to grow the middle-class and put more Americans back to work in the industries that drive innovation."

"Around the world today, the United States faces tremendous challenges, from violent extremism to nuclear proliferation to climate change. The budget released by the President today will help keep the United States safe and provide for strong American leadership. The budget provides dedicated funding to counter ISIS and other terrorist threats; advances our global health priorities, including a continued commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS and Ebola; provides $1 billion to address the root causes of migration from Central America; and includes important assistance to Ukraine and neighboring countries facing Russian pressure. In addition, the President's budget keeps our American diplomats safe by providing $4.8 billion for worldwide security protection.

"Correcting the current Medicare exclusion of in-home infusion therapy needs to be a priority for this Congress," Congressman Engel said. "Under current guidelines, patients battling cancer or suffering from a serious infection must leave their homes for infusion therapy treatment, often against the better judgment of their doctors. Leaving the house for this treatment not only puts the patient at a higher risk of infection, it also costs significantly more than it would if the therapy was provided in-home. There is no reason for us to continue making patients pursue a more dangerous and expensive method of infusion therapy treatment when there is a safer, more cost-effective alternative available."

The grant money from FEMA will be used to complete permanent repairs to three park locations: the sea walls bordering the island; the east and west pavilions; and several stone walls. Funds will also be used to replace over 600 cubic feet of eroded beach soil, and to create a more resilient sea wall.

In the letter to Secretary Kerry, the Committee leaders write: "This development is deeply troubling. If the PA becomes a member of the ICC, it will undoubtedly attempt to exploit the organization for its own purposes and ultimately make the prospect of peace with Israel far more difficult to achieve. We believe the actions that the PA has taken require an immediate and forceful response from the United States that is commensurate with the gravity of its decision. We understand that the State Department is conducting a review of assistance to the PA in light of recent developments. The United States should not support direct economic assistance to the PA until it demonstrates a meaningful reversal of this destructive course and proves it can be a willing partner for peace."

"I want to extend my condolences to King Salman and the people of Saudi Arabia, and I'm humbled that President Obama asked me to join his delegation representing the United States on this sad occasion," said Rep. Engel. "King Abdullah helped to strengthen the critical partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia, and I hope the days ahead bring a smooth transition for King Salman and his government. I look forward to working with Saudi Arabia's leaders in the future on the many challenges facing our two countries and the region."

"Given Europe's history with the Holocaust, I am deeply disturbed by the recent wave of anti-Semitism in Europe – most notably this month's attack by religious extremists on a Paris kosher supermarket. Anti-Semitism is again rearing its ugly head and European leaders must remain vigilant in combatting its perpetrators and ensuring the safety of their Jewish communities. Only with honest dialogue, critical self-examination, and strong security measures can Europe effectively defeat this wave of hate and protect the rights – and lives – of all its citizens."

"House Republicans complain about the government meddling into business matters through overregulation, yet today they show that they have no problem meddling with women's health care. They are so callous that they choose today, the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, to impose their ideology on all women. Today, they bring to the floor H.R.7, the so-called ‘No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2015.' Today, they force women to adhere to their standards of ‘right' and ‘wrong.' Today, they show so little respect for the women of our nation that they will impose their will and curtail women's capacity to make decisions about their own bodies.

"I am also once again cosponsoring the DISCLOSE Act which would strengthen transparency in federal campaigns to help ensure the voices of the American people aren't drowned out by the wealthy elite. If we expect to get anything done on behalf of the American people we need to do everything we can to make sure their will and best interests are at the forefront of our legislative efforts. I call on my Republican colleagues in Congress to support the DISCLOSE Act so that we can restore some balance to the electoral process for the American people."

On the legislation's introduction, Ranking Member Engel said: "Modern slavery is a horrific crime and an assault on freedom and justice. As leader in fighting this scourge, the U.S. government needs to make sure that our procurement and contracting practices don't lead to abuse or exploitation of workers. The bill that Chairman Royce and I are offering will help ensure taxpayer dollars aren't inadvertently making this problem worse."

"As I sat in the House Chamber listening to President Obama's State of the Union Address I was pleased to hear so many initiatives that, if enacted, would help grow the middle class, improve the economy, and strengthen our homeland security.

"As a New Yorker, Mr. Speaker, I remember the outpouring of support from France following September 11th, 2001. But even as we mourn the dead, we draw inspiration from the displays of courage and solidarity on the streets of the City of Light, across Europe, and around the world. With the attackers still at large, Parisians took to the streets in massive and peaceful vigils. They sent a clear message to the world that freedom and justice will not be cowed by violence and terror.

"I was deeply disappointed to hear of the sentencing of Mauritanian anti-slavery activist Biram Dah Abeid to two years in prison. Founder of the Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement, Biram is a passionate human rights defender, and in 2013 was awarded the United Nations Human Rights Prize and the Front Line Defenders Award for his work combating slavery in Mauritania. For his efforts, he has already been arrested several times on trumped-up charges, most recently during a peaceful protest march in November. The arrest and sentencing of Biram Dah Abeid, along with Brahim Bilal Ramdhane, IRA's vice president, and Djiby Sow, president of the non-governmental organization Kawtal, undermine those who have the passion and courage to speak on behalf of human rights in Mauritania. I urge the Mauritanian authorities to release Biram and allow his organization and others like it to legally register.

"The success of the Foreign Affairs Committee is a result of the expertise and dedication of our members. I'm proud to welcome our Democratic members, both new and returning, who bring a rich diversity of background and experience to the Committee," said Rep. Engel. "Around the world today, the United States faces tremendous challenges, from violent extremism to nuclear proliferation to climate change. Meeting these challenges requires us to put party politics aside and present a unified front on the global stage. I'm confident that our ranking Democrats and all our members will continue working across the aisle with our Republican colleagues, standing up for our values and priorities, and helping advance American interests around the world."

"I want to on a personal note say that I commend your strong leadership on this issue, and it means a great deal that this briefing is the very first item on our Committee's agenda in the 114th Congress. I look forward to working with you and the rest of our colleagues to address this challenge and to continue working in a bipartisan and productive way in the year ahead.

"The release of the 53 is a positive step, but merely a step by the Cuban government toward what is truly needed. We urge the Cuban government to build on this action by allowing for greater political freedom on the island and respecting the human rights of all Cubans. We will continue to monitor the human rights situation in Cuba very closely."

"House Republicans are trying to use the Homeland Security Appropriations Act to roll back the President's new immigration program. For the Republicans to play partisan games with the Department of Homeland Security when international terrorism is on the rise is outright dangerous.

"The pace and viciousness of Boko Haram's attacks has not abated since nearly 200 schoolgirls were kidnapped last spring. Indeed, it has gotten worse. They must be stopped and their brutal tactics put to an end. I urge the Nigerian authorities, as well as partner countries in the region, to step up their response to this terrorism. The weak resistance Boko Haram faces in northeastern Nigeria will only fuel its ambitions to drive further into the country and the broader region.

"Five years ago today, Haiti was struck by a devastating earthquake that killed more than 230,000 people and affected many more. Shortly thereafter, I visited Haiti to make sure that the Haitian people knew that Congress would stand with them as they rebuilt their country. Congress has provided support for Haiti totaling $4 billion since the earthquake, and the country has made impressive strides in recovering. Yet it still remains the poorest country in the hemisphere, and we cannot abandon the Haitian people just as things have begun to turn the corner. Haiti needs us now more than ever. As reconstruction on the island continues, I am confident that the Haitian-American community will continue to play an extremely important role.

After sending the letter, Ranking Member Engel said: "Normalizing relations with Cuba cannot be a one-way street. We need to see real changes from the Castro regime, and human rights need to be at the center of those reforms. More transparency about the release of these prisoners would provide assurances that Havana is living up to its end of the bargain."

"As we begin the 114th Congress we must do everything we can to help those still in the throes of economic uncertainty. Once again, I renew my call to Speaker Boehner to allow for an up-or-down vote on extending unemployment insurance, and I also hope that as we begin a new year House Republicans will seriously consider other economic measures to help the middle class, like raising the minimum wage."

"I congratulate Maithripala Sirisena on his election as President of Sri Lanka, and also current President Mahinda Rajapakse for his hard-fought campaign. This campaign and the election's outcome are the newest chapters in Sri Lanka's long and proud democratic tradition.

"I'm outraged and disgusted by today's terrorist attack in Paris. My heart goes out to the families and colleagues of all the victims.

"The U.S.–Mexico partnership is stronger than ever, and I'm pleased that President Obama's first meeting with a foreign leader in 2015 will be with Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto. Today, our economies are tied together more closely than ever before. Mexico is the second-largest destination for U.S. exports and the third-largest source of imports. In 2013, Mexico was the eighth-largest market for exports from my home state of New York with $2.2 billion of goods exported from New York to Mexico. We must continue to strengthen the economic ties between our two countries.

"I'm deeply troubled by the recent actions against RFE/RL and its personnel by the government of Azerbaijan. Freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy, and for generations RFE/RL has been a source of reliable, unbiased news and information across Europe. With the RFE/RL Baku bureau sealed shut by government officials, that source has been silenced and that freedom is under assault. "

Congressman Engel voted earlier this month to extend the terrorism risk insurance program for another six years.

"I look forward to working with President-elect Beji Caid Essebsi to build a more prosperous, secure and democratic Tunisia as well as a stronger US-Tunisian relationship."

"I strongly condemn the assassination today of two New York City Police officers. This stands as a stark reminder of the terrible risks our first responders face everyday. These officers were executed in cold blood as they were doing their job of protecting us. It is an incredibly tragic situation and my deepest sympathies go out to the officers' loved ones during this impossibly difficult time.

"This week's action at the United Nations demonstrates that the Palestinians are not serious about negotiating an end to the Arab-Israeli conflict. A UN Security Council Resolution that imposes timetables for Palestinian statehood eliminates any incentive for the Palestinians to return to the negotiating table. A Palestinian state will only be born at the negotiating table where the parties themselves reach a mutually agreed upon arrangement. Unilateral action at the United Nations will only lead to greater instability and uncertainty for the Palestinian people, and make it that much harder to achieve a durable two-state solution. I call on the Administration to veto any UN Security Council Resolution that imposes timetables."

"I am also pleased that local, state and federal resources will be used to fix and repair our existing public housing facilities. The Warburton Apartments will enable more working families to secure a home, as well as improve our neighborhoods and the quality of life for the people who live there."

"The continued development of North Korean capabilities in cyber warfare is of grave concern. Cyber-attacks have become increasingly common–most prominently from China, Russia, and non-state actors. It should be a high priority of the United States government–and for American businesses–to address cybersecurity vulnerabilities and prevent these attacks from compromising our systems.

"I want to express my deep gratitude to Dr. Shah. Raj led USAID with tireless commitment and a clear vision for alleviating global poverty and promoting economic welfare and development for those countries most in need. From food aid, to the Ebola crisis, to coordinating relief efforts, under Raj's leadership USAID has shown itself to be a premier global development agency.

"While I am pleased that 53 political prisoners are expected to be released, we must continue to insist that each and every individual who is languishing inside a Cuban prison be freed. Cuba's leaders are not off the hook. While the President has the authority to make the changes that were announced today, Congress has the authority to maintain or eliminate the trade embargo on Cuba. I believe that Congress must see a greater political opening in Cuba before lifting the embargo."

"I am pleased to hear news reports regarding the release of Alan Gross from prison in Cuba. It has been five very long years for Alan and his family, and his release is long overdue. Alan's release during the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah is appropriate as Hanukkah celebrates hope at a time of seeming hopelessness. I wish Alan and his family a happy and healthy holiday season."

"I commend President Obama for signing the Ukraine Freedom Support Act, clearing the way for the United States and our allies to keep the pressure on President Putin and expand support for Ukraine. This legislation gives the President broad authorities to respond to Mr. Putin's aggression while at the same time allowing flexibility to consult with our allies. News out of Moscow makes clear that our actions against Russia so far are having an impact. The Ruble has collapsed and the Russian economy is teetering on the edge. Nevertheless, Moscow-backed forces continue to flout international law and trample on Ukraine's sovereignty while the Russian people bear the burden. We need to do more, and I welcome the President's decision."

"The U.S. has expended significant resources – both political and financial – in helping the people of South Sudan achieve their aspiration of establishing an independent country that is at peace. The unfortunate reality today though is that South Sudanese political leaders are an impediment to achieving that goal. Khartoum is feeding political and inter-ethnic tensions, but that doesn't excuse the reckless and destructive actions of southern political leaders.

"I am shocked, angered, and deeply saddened by the appalling terrorist attack on the Pakistani school. I can think of nothing more repulsive than the murder of children, and my heart goes out to those who lost family or loved ones.

"We are extremely grateful to Congressman Engel, Congressman Nunes and other members of Congress who have taken a true leadership role in advocating to make the organ transplant distribution system more equitable," said Steven M. Safyer, M.D., president and CEO of Montefiore Health System. "Many patients lose their lives waiting for transplants. We believe reform is necessary to reduce geographic disparity and ensure that patients most in need receive transplants."

"So it's time for North Korea's leaders to be held accountable for their atrocities, which rank among the worst since World War II. And we've had lots of atrocities unfortunately. But theirs are the worst. This sort of brutality has no place in the 21st century. And I urge the United Nations General Assembly to vote in favor of referring this case to the International Criminal Court.

"This February, the Republic of Kosovo celebrates seven years of independence, and I look forward to working with the new government on the crucial issues which it must address: advancing Kosovo's Euro-Atlantic Integration, adding more recognitions, strengthening reforms, fighting corruption, and further normalizing Kosovo-Serbia relations.

"I understand that the American people are uneasy about getting more involved in another conflict halfway around the globe. I feel the same way. We're tired of war. We want to bring our men and women home. This is another reason why working with local partners is so important; it will help prevent future escalation of American involvement.

"Our veterans risked their lives for our liberty, and losing just one to suicide is far too many. This bill provides our heroes with the support they have earned to overcome post-traumatic stress disorder, mental health issues, and traumatic brain injuries. There are few issues that both political parties have agreed on, and I am pleased that we were able to come together and pass this bill with unanimous support," said Congressman Engel.

"I am renewing my call to Speaker Boehner to allow for a simple up-or-down vote on extending unemployment insurance. Economic recoveries don't take place overnight. It's going to take more time for our economy to fully recover, and House Republicans should work with the Democratic Caucus to ensure that no American workers are left out."

"Israel is a bright light, Mr. Speaker, in a very very dark region–the only democracy in the Middle East and a valued ally of the United States. That's why we're considering this bill. To strengthen our relationship with the state and the people of Israel and to send a clear and unmistakable message to Israel's foes. And that message is, America stands with Israel.

"I was saddened to learn of the passing of Herman Badillo. He adopted the Bronx as his home, and dedicated his life to public service. Herman was a pioneer for the Hispanic community, and for all of us. His presence will be missed, and I hope his legacy continues to inspire others."

"Today's report shows that the Affordable Care Act isn't just saving lives, it's also saving us billions of dollars every year through safety reforms," Rep. Engel said. "From 2010 to 2013, we have seen 1.3 million fewer hospital-acquired conditions, resulting in 50,000 lives saved and $12 billion in healthcare costs avoided."

"The lessons we learned from Superstorm Sandy have made our communities stronger. I am pleased to have discussed my concerns with Con Edison's CEO and I look forward to continuing our dialogue."

"We must be clear that our concerns are not directed toward the Russian people. In fact, as Putin tightens his grip, his own citizens are among those suffering the most. Basic freedoms are under attack. The media has become a mouthpiece for Putin and his cronies. And as Russia continues its aggression in Ukraine, international sanctions are hitting home, dragging down Russia's economy.

"The color of Eric Garner's skin should not matter, but his death should. This is not a black issue, a white issue or a Latino issue. It's an American issue. It breaks my heart because we have worked hard in this country to bring people together. I want my kids to know that they live in a society where everyone is given equal treatment. That's what our country is all about."

"When I first met with Alan Gross's wife Judy in 2009, I never could have imagined that Alan would still be in prison in Cuba five years later. I continue to call on the Cuban government to release Alan immediately on humanitarian grounds."

"We have a moral obligation to do all that is in our power to halt the spread of this deadly disease that has claimed the lives of 39 million people across the world. There are few votes I have taken as significant as the ones I have cast in support of the Ryan White Program and PEPFAR, and I am looking forward to the day when those initiatives will no longer be necessary."

"I am pleased that the EPA has decided to act despite the political pressure that has been levied against the federal agency. Stronger environmental protections are not an either or proposition that would hurt American businesses. These protections will create new innovations and industries. Giving businesses a free pass to pollute not only ignores science, it ignores our own well-being."

"The United States and our western allies should look for a way to spare France the financial hit that could accompany this courageous step. I have repeatedly encouraged NATO to lease or buy the Mistral ships. Whether by that course or another, we need to stand together with France and help ease the burden they risk taking on. This sort of shared responsibility and unified action is essential–now and in the days ahead–to respond to Russia's blatant ambition for expanding its power in Europe."

"It's premature to comment on an extension of the negotiations with Iran, as the details have not yet been announced. I would hope any extension includes new concessions from the Iranians while keeping the talks on track. I'll have more to say once we see all the specifics."

"The Senate passed a bipartisan bill that would strengthen our borders, and require undocumented immigrants to undergo a background check and pay back taxes before they qualify for citizenship. That bill calls for responsibility–not amnesty–but the House Republican leadership hasn't brought it to the floor for a vote.

"We believe that any final agreement between the P5+1 and Iran must foreclose any pathway for Iran to develop a nuclear weapons capability. It must include an effective, intrusive, and long-term verification mechanism that would give us ample warning of any attempt by Iran to break out. It must also require Iran to come clean on its past work to develop a bomb.

"The Mutual Defense Agreement between the United States and the U.K. has underpinned our cooperation on nuclear security issues for more than half a century. But without Congressional action, this agreement will lapse at the end of the year. By passing this legislation, we're ensuring continued collaboration with our British allies on this critical issue, we're enhancing the security of both our countries, and we're shoring up the ‘Special Relationship' for years to come."

"Over the last two years, I've worked to represent the priorities of our Democratic members and caucus, while at the same time adhering to the belief that when it comes to foreign policy, politics should stop at the water's edge. With our Chairman Ed Royce, we have collaborated in a bipartisan way to help the United States meet some of our biggest challenges around the world, from countering violent extremism to combating HIV and AIDS to advancing democracy and the rule of law.

"We all remember the massive protests as the Chairman mentioned after the fraudulent 2009 Iranian elections. We all remember the images of tens of thousands of Iranians, brave Iranian citizens, taking to the streets. And we all remember how the Iranian government responded, sending the Basij militia to brutally beat peaceful protesters. The leaders of that Green Revolution remain under house arrest to this very day.

"I'm outraged by today's brutal terrorist attack in Jerusalem, which took the lives of four people including three Americans. My heart goes out to their families."

The Engel-Smith legislation would create a White House Coordinator for International Cultural Property Protection to coordinate and promote efforts by multiple federal agencies, including diplomatic activities, military activities, law enforcement activities, and the work of the Cultural Antiquities Task Force. It would also impose import restrictions on cultural property unlawfully removed from Syria, protecting the property at risk of loss or destruction at the hands of ISIS/ISIL and other international criminal and terrorist organizations.

Ranking Member Engel said: "For more than half a century, the Mutual Defense Agreement has been a vital part of the alliance between the United States and the United Kingdom and a cornerstone of European defense. Though we face a new set of challenges in the 21st century, the need for close cooperation on nuclear security remains clear. As we move to extend this agreement, we reaffirm the importance of the Special Relationship."

"Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding this important hearing. Let me say, it was good spending time with you this past week. And to our witnesses: thank you for your service and for your testimony here today. I want to single out Rajiv Shah, the administrator of USAID, with whom I've worked closely during the past several years. We appreciate your efforts, Administrator Shah, and the efforts of all the good people who are testifying before here today. Thank you Ambassador Williams, and the others. Thank you so much.

"The partnership between the United States and Colombia is stronger than ever. Under the leadership of President Santos, Colombia has continued to make progress. Homicides are down nearly 50 percent since 2002 while kidnappings have dropped by almost 90 percent. The Colombian economy has had an average growth rate of 4.7 percent over the last decade. Colombia is a true success story and a country where our joint efforts have made a real difference.

"To meet our emission-reduction targets in the United States, we all need to be in this together. We need to encourage our innovators to help us hit those targets. We need to sustain the transition to a clean-energy economy. And we all need to accept the overwhelming scientific evidence that climate change is real and that it is man-made.

"Providing assistance then yanking it away is outrageous. FEMA needs to implement stronger procedures to prevent erroneous relief payments, and to better communicate the terms of its support. I urge FEMA to conduct a careful review of any cases where recipients claim they were misled by agency representatives. Going forward, FEMA should focus on ensuring that aid is delivered where it is needed, rather than trying to claw back money from those who cannot afford to pay for the agency's mistakes."

"Millions of Americans are still struggling to find work, but House Republicans have steadfastly refused to extend unemployment insurance to those who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. I am again calling on Speaker Boehner to let the full Congress have a simple up-or-down vote on extending UI. If House Republicans are serious about putting people back to work and helping working Americans, then it's time for them to allow a vote."Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, says the October jobs report provides further evidence the economy is on the right track, but reiterated the need to extend emergency unemployment insurance.

"I appreciate France temporarily suspending the sale of these advanced warships to Russia, but we must find a way to permanently ensure that they do not fall in to Putin'shands," said Rep. Engel. "That is why I'm calling for NATO to seize this opportunity to strengthen its own assets while at the same time definitively deny Russia any chance to add to its capabilities."

"The latest and most comprehensive report from the world's foremost climate scientists makes it abundantly clear, yet again, that humans are behind mounting greenhouse gas emissions that are warming our planet. By ignoring the science that is so clearly and persuasively set forth in this report, we are saddling future generations with unimaginable and possibly irreversible problems.

"I am deeply troubled by recent developments in Burkina Faso, including efforts by President Compaore to extend his term as President, his decision to dissolve parliament, and violent acts by both government security forces and civilian protestors. I urge all parties to refrain from further violence and to engage in peaceful dialogue that will create a pathway to free and fair elections next year."

"I can only hope that Superstorm Sandy was a singular act of nature, but we have to be prepared for the next storm. Congress needs to act quickly and decisively in the face of future disasters. I am deeply disappointed that some of my Congressional colleagues delayed federal assistance for the post-Sandy recovery efforts. We cannot, nor should not, withhold aid to those who most need it.

"In my December meeting with the U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and Joseph Szabo of the Federal Railroad Administration, I requested them to act promptly on the safety recommendations of the NTSB."

"I was shocked and disappointed on reading the comments in The Atlantic. I call upon the Administration to reassert the importance of the relationship between the United States and Israel, and to reaffirm that the bonds between our two countries are unbreakable. I realize that two allies, such as the United States and Israel, are not going to agree on everything, but I think it is counterproductive and unprofessional for Administration officials to air their dirty laundry in such a public way. I am getting tired of hearing about the leaks and denials. This ought to be the last time we hear of such talk because it is getting to a point where nobody believes the denials anymore."

Ukraine's parliamentary elections were widely observed by domestic and international monitors and took place in a calm atmosphere with only isolated disturbances and security incidents. The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) headed the observation mission and deemed the nationwide poll to have been "well-organized and orderly" and "an important step in consolidating democratic elections in line with international commitments." The OSCE is widely considered the gold standard of election observation. The United States is one of the OSCE's 57 participating States, which include Russia, Ukraine, and all 28 EU Member States. Switzerland currently chairs the OSCE.

"School shootings have become far too common in our society, and no parent or child should ever wonder if it could happen at their school. We must take immediate steps to curb gun violence today, before another shooting happens tomorrow."

"The best path forward for Kosovo requires inclusion in major organizations in Europe and on the global stage. This includes the Olympic Games. The Olympics help strengthen ties among people from all over the world, and Kosovo's athletes are ready to compete. I'm pleased that the IOC has taken this step, and I look forward to the completion of this process in December," said Rep. Engel.

"Proper preparation and training are critical to containing and ultimately combatting Ebola. The purpose of the call was to learn more about the challenges these hospitals face, and to ensure that they are receiving the necessary resources and support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other federal agencies," said Congressman Engel.

"I sympathize with the protestors–students and residents of Hong Kong–who feel that Beijing's decision will further erode their rights and freedoms. I believe that this protest is not just about election mechanics; it is about Hong Kong's future as an open society under Beijing's ‘one country, two systems' regime.

"It is hard to stay silent when the killing of an innocent man has been trivialized and exploited. The men who murdered Leon Klinghoffer were terrorists working to destroy Israel, and to undermine any hopes for peace. It's a disgrace that the Met has chosen to feature an opera with such vile undertones, particularly given the rising current of anti-Semitism across the globe."

"I disagree with the Administration's reported assertion that it does not need to come to Congress at this point during negotiations with Iran."

"This coming January marks the five-year anniversary of the devastating January 12, 2010, earthquake which killed 200,000 Haitians and impacted scores more. While the country has made impressive strides towards recovery, it still remains the poorest nation in the hemisphere. As a longtime supporter of Haiti in Congress, I believe the United States must stand by Haiti. Today's announcement is just one small way in which we can continue to support the Haitian people and the Haitian-American community."

"We are a nation of equals, and there should be no exceptions. Members of the LGBT community should enjoy the same rights of full equality and inclusion as any other members of our society.

"I have long advocated for increased funding for our aging infrastructure, and welcomed the opportunity to speak with some of New York City's leading engineers. They shared their thoughts on a number of issues, from the Highway Transportation bill to the Export-Import Bank," said Congressman Engel. "These are critical issues of concern, and I look forward to continuing our dialogue.

"I have long supported marriage equality and was one of only 67 House members in 1996 who voted against the now-obsolete Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). There is no place in any society for discrimination, particularly our own."

"I want to congratulate President Ashraf Ghani on his inauguration yesterday. I join millions of Afghans and leaders around the world in wishing him well. Now, the hard work begins. Afghanistan faces a range of challenges, and the Afghan people have put their trust in the new President to guide their country forward.

"I commend the students and residents of Hong Kong who are calling for Beijing to honor the promise of ‘one country, two systems' by allowing Hong Kong to play a meaningful role in selecting their leader. For Hong Kong's 2017 elections to truly represent the wishes of the people, they must be allowed to nominate candidates of their own choosing.

"The MD CARE Act has long played a critical role in improving the lives of those suffering from muscular dystrophy. People with muscular dystrophy are living longer, and their needs have evolved. The MD CARE Amendments Act ensures that we are able to better respond to their changing needs by updating existing programs to reflect the scientific gains made since the law was last updated in 2008," said Congressman Engel. "This law has always enjoyed full bipartisan support, and I am pleased to see that this tradition remains strong."

"I encourage individuals and families to safely dispose of expired and unused prescription drugs during Saturday's Take-Back Day. Flushing unused medicine down the toilet or tossing them in the trash can lead to potential safety and health hazards," said Congressman Engel. "Unused prescription drugs are prone to misuse. Removing these drugs from our homes removes the opportunity for abuse."

"We can't know what would have happened if we had acted then. But we do know that since then, tens of thousands of men, women, and children have lost their lives. Millions have been driven from their homes. And ISIS has grown and spilled across the Iraqi border, leaving behind a trail of destruction and bloodshed.

"The people of Haiti deserve to choose their own leaders and chart the course for their country's future. The delays to free elections in Haiti are stifling the aspirations of that country's people and undermining Haitian democracy. It's time for the Haitian Senate to do the right thing and pass the legislation needed to move forward with elections," said Rep. Engel.

"They say you can't conduct diplomacy from a bunker; it's also true that you can't conduct diplomacy from hundreds of miles away. The United States shares close ties with so many of our Caribbean neighbors, whether through our governments' efforts to curb drug trafficking, our shared work through the OAS, or the constant exchange of citizens among our countries. My bill would ramp up our diplomatic efforts across the region and improve services for American citizens living in these five countries," said Rep. Engel.

"I commend CVS Health for their commitment to end tobacco sales, and for doing so nearly a month ahead of their announced schedule. Smoking is a serious public health crisis, and an estimated 480,000 people die each year from tobacco-related illnesses. Smokers also have a higher risk of developing lung cancer, heart disease or suffering from a stroke than non-smokers," said Congressman Engel.

Washington, DC – Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the Subcommittee on Health for the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Congressman Pat Tiberi (R-OH-12) introduced The Medicare Home Infusion Site of Care Act to close the Medicare coverage gap for home-based infusion care.

"The Supreme Court placed unnecessary limits on women's access to comprehensive health care in a narrow 5-4 ruling that clearly favors corporate interests. This bill will enable women to access contraception and other federally-mandated health services without interference from her employer. Women's health is a private matter, not a political one. No one should come between a woman and her physician, including her boss."

"With every promise to deescalate the crisis in Ukraine that Mr. Putin breaks, and with every lie about the role of Russia's military he tells, he will face stronger condemnation from the global community, harsher consequences for his actions, and deeper isolation for his country.

"Many heroes died, and many others were born. Let us remember those we lost, and honor those who have worked to make our country even stronger."

"Over one year after I introduced the Free Syria Act to arm the moderate, vetted Syrian opposition, I welcome the President's renewed and urgent commitment to do just that. The moderate opposition are our partners in Syria–against both ISIS and Assad–and we must expand our support to them so that they may continue to be vigilant in our fight against this dual threat.

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, says that the August jobs report indicates modest gains but it also demonstrates the need for Congress to do more to aid job creation.

"The death of Al-Shabaab's leader, Ahmed Godane, marks another important victory in the fight against global terrorism and violent extremism. Godane preached an ideology of radicalism and hatred, and the organization he led is responsible for the murders of countless innocent men, women, and children–including Americans. Al-Shabaab remains a threat to countries across Africa and to the United States, and we must remain diligent in our efforts to neutralize this organization and root out terrorist groups wherever they exist. But today, thanks to the courage and capability of our armed forces and President Obama's leadership, the world is a safer place."

"The College of Mount Saint Vincent is a true melting pot, and I have long been impressed by their commitment to serve the needs of each student who walks through their doors," said Congressman Engel. "Hispanics are one of the fastest-growing groups in the United States, and the College of Mount Saint Vincent is working to ensure that Hispanic students are not only able to succeed, but also to thrive. And they are obviously doing something right; the College of Mount Saint Vincent has the nation's highest graduation rate for Hispanic students majoring in science and related fields. They have taken an innovative approach to educating our future leaders, and this federal grant will ensure that they continue to do so."

"Peaceful transitions of power are the hallmark of any democracy, and the Iraqi people deserve stability in this transition."

"The suffering that ISIS is raining down upon Iraqi civilians is intolerable, and I support the President's relief effort."

"I am very pleased that Congress took decisive action to address the issues that plague the Department of Veterans Affairs. Our veterans should not be forced to wait an unreasonably long time for medical care, and it's appalling to even think that some have died because of treatment delays."

"The old African proverb tells us: if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together. The United States wants the countries of Africa to go far. And United States wants to be Africa's partner on that journey."

"This is a historic day for the people of Cambodia, and especially for those who suffered under Pol Pot's cruel Khmer Rouge regime. Between 1975 and 1979, Pol Pot began systematically restructuring Cambodian society in pursuit of a utopian agrarian state. Years of disease, starvation, and torture in Khmer Rouge ‘killing fields' left as many as two million dead."

"I am deeply saddened to learn that James Brady has passed away. Jim was a tireless advocate for sensible gun control solutions who turned a personal tragedy into a national call to action. He was a driving force behind the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act -- which established federal background checks for gun buyers -- and launched the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence with his wife Sarah. I am proud to have earned their support."

"House Republicans voted to kill the American Dream for thousands of children who qualify for deferred action. Given that House leadership has failed to pass meaningful legislation to strengthen the economy or create new jobs, fund a long-term plan to fix our aging infrastructure, and tackle pay inequality then I guess it's fair to say that they are trying to kill the American Dream for all of us."

"There is a humanitarian crisis unfolding on our Southern border, and House Republicans refuse to acknowledge the urgency with which we must address it."

"I condemn in the strongest possible terms Hamas's breach of the negotiated humanitarian ceasefire, which resulted in the killing of two Israeli soldiers and abduction of 2nd Lt. Hadar Goldin."

The monthly jobs report shows that 209,000 jobs were added to the economy in July, and the unemployment rate rose slightly to 6.2 percent from 6.1 percent in July.

"Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding this important hearing. I am proud of our Committee and the work we've done together on both sides of the aisle. This is obviously a very, very important hearing."

"I was appalled by allegations that nearly 40 veterans died in Phoenix while waiting for care at a VA medical center, and that staffers tried to cover up those treatment delays. We have since learned that the problem wasn't limited to one facility, and that thousands of our heroes had been denied timely care."

"Mr. Speaker, in recent weeks, on our TV screens and computer monitors–in the pages of newspapers and magazines–we've seen the bloody and brutal results of war. We've heard the reports of so many lives lost. And no matter where you come from or what you believe, if you don't grieve over every innocent killed, you simply don't have a heart."

"Chairman, thank you for holding this important markup. Thank you for the bipartisan collaboration you've brought to all of these measures, and for working with me on what I consider a vital measure, the Emergency Iron Dome Replenishment Act."

"Chairman, thank you for holding this important markup. Thank you for the bipartisan collaboration you've brought to all of these measures, and for working with me on what I consider a vital measure, the Emergency Iron Dome Replenishment Act."

"In recent months, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has stifled the democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people as his security forces have cracked down on peaceful protesters. The Obama Administration's announcement today of visa restrictions against human rights violators in Venezuela is a welcome step."

"Israel is our closest ally and the only democracy in the Middle East, and the United States has a clear interest in helping Israel defend itself and protect its citizens. Iron Dome works. We need to make sure it continues to shield Israel from the Hamas's nonstop terrorist attacks. My legislation will save lives and send a clear message that the United States is standing shoulder to shoulder with our Israeli allies," said Rep. Engel. "I'm pleased the Foreign Affairs Committee sent this bill forward and I urge my colleagues in the House to support it."

"It's now clear that President Putin's support for rebels in Ukraine brought down a plane full of innocent civilians. From within Russian borders, his military assets are raining violence and destruction down upon eastern Ukraine. And his dangerous missile tests have trampled on an agreement that even his Soviet predecessors supported."

"Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman, for holding this important hearing. Let me thank our witnesses for appearing today. Ambassador Sherman, Under Secretary Cohen, we have met with you many times, and America thanks you for the good work both of you have done and continue to do."

"This report should send the Republican spin doctors into hiding. It's contrary to what they have been peddling about the Affordable Care Act. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, the Medicare Hospital Insurance Trust Fund will remain solvent four years longer than projected. This is welcome news for the millions of seniors who rely on Medicare to cover doctor visits, prescriptions, and hospital stays. "

Muscular Dystrophy is not a single disease, but is an overarching term for a spectrum of genetic disorders resulting in progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. Hundreds of thousands of children and adults currently suffer from the various forms of Muscular Dystrophy in the United States, and around the world.

H.R. 1771 would impose the first comprehensive sanctions on the North Korean regime and those in other countries who abet North Korea's arms smuggling, weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile development, human rights abuses, and support of terrorism. The legislation would require asset freezes and seizures as well as visa denials on persons who materially contribute to these efforts.

ALS is a fatal disease that destroys a person's ability to control muscle movement. The life expectancy for a person with ALS is two to five years from the time of diagnosis, and as the disease progresses, victims lose their ability to talk, walk and even breathe. There is no cure for ALS, but this registry is a significant step towards better understanding the disease.

"Madam Speaker, the threat posed by ISIS is real. Iraq is teetering on the brink, and we cannot allow that country to become a safe haven for terrorists that could be used to launch another 9/11. While the Hamas terrorists are pushing forth in Gaza, the ISIS terrorists are pushing forth in Iraq."

"We've seen the consequences of thugs getting their hands on advanced weaponry, and the last thing we need is our allies helping bolster Russian military strength," said Rep. Engel. "I hope President Obama will work with our allies and partners to put a stop to this sale. NATO buying or leasing the ships would be a win-win-win: a win for NATO, a win for France, and a win by keeping the powerful ships out of Russian hands."

"Since December, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant–ISIL or ISIS–has marched across Iraq with lethal efficiency. Fallujah, Ramadi, and Mosul have fallen to their control. Hundreds of Iraqi soldiers have been killed or have laid down their weapons, and the military equipment they left behind–some even supplied by the United States–is now in the hands of these fanatics. The border between Iraq and Syria is gone. ISIS is advancing toward the Jordanian border. And ISIS's leaders have declared an Islamic caliphate, promising to rule with a brand of barbarism out of the darkest chapters in human history. "

"So, I rise in strong support of H.R. 4411, the Hezbollah International Financing Prevention Act. This legislation will greatly enhance our ability to confront Hezbollah as they continue to sow terror around the globe."

"I applaud President Obama for taking steps to end discriminatory hiring among federal contractors. Now it's time for Congress to finish what he has started. The Senate passed the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) in November, which would extend that ban to all employers, but House Republicans have refused to act."

"Hamas is a terrorist organization whose sole purpose is to destroy Israel. The Hamas rockets that have been fired into Israel have forced the hand of the Israeli people, who have a right to defend themselves against the threat of terror."

The award will help fund a project by Rostislav Konoplich, Ph.D., entitled "Studies of Higgs Boson Properties and Search for New Physics with ATLAS." Konoplich is a professor of physics at Manhattan College and a member of ATLAS, one of the two international teams that collaborated to pinpoint the Higgs boson.

The disgusting letter published by the Turkish newspaper Yeni Akit has no place in any society and only serves to put innocent lives in danger."

"Today, Israel is taking steps to defend itself from the thousands of rockets that have terrorized its citizens since Israel withdrew from Gaza, and in response to the tunnel discovered by Israel that posed a direct threat to the Israeli people. "

"My heart goes out to the families and loved ones of all those lost in today's tragedy. While there may be a temptation to jump to conclusions about what happened, we don't have enough information yet and we should avoid careless speculation."

"While we need to address the humanitarian crisis on our southern border, we also need to realize that this situation is the symptom of a much larger problem. These children are leaving home because they don't have opportunity or they fear for their lives. We need to make sure that our assistance to Central America is being used where it's needed most, and that we're getting at the root causes behind this challenge," said Rep. Engel.

"I applaud President Obama's announcement of new, tougher sanctions against Russia. Putin has failed to deescalate the crisis in Ukraine, and now he is facing the consequences. These measures go farther than any we've taken so far, and Putin should be on notice that we will continue to dial up pressure so long as Russia threatens its neighbors."

"This year, Boko Haram has killed more than 2,000 people in nearly 100 attacks. They have kidnapped more women. They have terrorized villages in northeastern Nigeria, and have launched attacks on the capital of Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria's commercial center. "

"Even as Iran's economy continues to falter under the weight of international sanctions, leaders in Tehran are plowing their scarce resources into elements of Iran's security apparatus that support terrorism–particularly the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps and its Quds Force. Iran also provides funding, weapons, and other support to a wide range of terrorist groups, including Hezbollah, Hamas, and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. "

"This bill is little more than a band aid, but the alternative would have been far worse. If Congress failed to replenish funding for the Highway Trust Fund, then states would see an estimated 28 percent drop in federal financing for vital infrastructure projects. New projects would be halted, and much-need repairs for existing roads and bridges would be delayed."

"Ever since the P5+1 and Iran agreed to the terms of the Joint Plan of Action, I have said that this should be a temporary arrangement–not a final agreement–because it would not preclude a relatively rapid ‘breakout' by Iran."

"As Hamas terrorists continue to rain down rockets across Israel, I strongly support Israel's right to take all necessary actions to defend itself. "

While Iran's nuclear program continues to pose a grave threat to the national security of the United States and our allies, the Obama Administration, Iran, and other world powers in November reached an "interim agreement" that eased sanctions on Iran in exchange for minimal nuclear concessions. The agreement set a July 20 deadline for reaching a "comprehensive solution" to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

"We face a challenge today, a challenging question: how can we achieve our nonproliferation goals while commercial nuclear energy technology is now readily available in the global marketplace?"

"The Asia-Pacific is home to almost half of the world's population, and more than half of global trade and GDP. This region will be a key driver of global events in the decades to come, and central to America's international interests as a Pacific power. "

As a father, my heart goes out to all the children making the perilous journey from Central America to the United States. What we're seeing on our southern border is the result of a complex range of factors: from a lack of economic opportunity and violence across Central America; to the need to enforce a 2008 law, signed by President Bush, providing greater protection for children facing deportation; to misperceptions about our current immigration policy."

"I am saddened by recent events in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza. Violence and revenge are incompatible with achieving progress toward a peaceful solution. "

"Our economy continues to recover and Americans are returning to work. But more must be done. Imagine what we could do if Congress worked in unison with the recovery. A jobs bill would make vital investments in our nation's infrastructure, and provide a needed boost to the construction and transportation sectors. With underemployment rates at high levels, we must continue to push for new measures to ensure a sustainable, long-term recovery."

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, urged Congress to find an immediate fix that would replenish the Highway Trust Fund before the current authorization expires.

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, welcomed the nomination of Robert A. McDonald for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the leading Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, says House Republicans' refusal to work towards a comprehensive immigration solution has forced President Obama to take executive action.

"The Supreme Court's narrow decision continues their disturbing trend towards diminishing unions' collective bargaining ability. "

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and a member of the subcommittee on Health, says that the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in the Hobby Lobby case places unnecessary limits on women's access to comprehensive health care.

"As we look at the faces of these young boys, it is my hope that even those who seek harm upon us realize that children are off limits. Young kids should never be targets in conflict. "

Administration Request Mirrors Engel's Free Syria Act

Scarsdale Senior Yunchao Le Attends D.C. Ceremony

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, praised the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling that police cannot seize a suspect's cell phone data without a warrant.

Autism affects more than two million individuals and their families across our country. The rate of diagnosis has climbed dramatically in recent years; and today, 1 out of every 68 American children is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder by the age of eight.

"With today's announcement conferring EU candidate status, Albania has cleared another hurdle on the way toward EU membership and full European integration. "

Leehy Shaer, Aunt of Kidnapped Israeli-American Teen Naftali Frenkel, To Join Members of Congress in Calling for the Release of the Three Kidnapped Israeli Teens

"The removal today of chemical weapons material from Syria is an important achievement. More than 1,000 tons of deadly chemicals have been taken away from the Assad regime."

This afternoon, Vice President Biden briefed me along with several other lawmakers on the situation in Iraq. I am deeply concerned, and reports on the ground all point to a rapidly deteriorating crisis. I urge the Maliki government to engage with Sunni and Kurdish leaders, and to look for a solution that will allow all people in Iraq to live side-by-side in peace and security.

According to the IAEA, the Joint Plan of Action interim agreement has paused many of Iran's advancements toward a nuclear weapon. However, if this temporary agreement became permanent, it would certainly be inadequate. The status quo would leave us with too many unanswered questions and an Iran that is too close to a nuclear breakout point. A comprehensive agreement is necessary to end the permanent threat of a nuclear Iran.

Yesterday, the citizens of Kosovo went to the polls to choose their leaders, to chart a path forward for their country, and to show the world the progress of a thriving young democracy. They should be proud of what they've accomplished, and I send my warmest congratulations.

Seventy years ago, the United States and our allies mounted a military operation unprecedented in history. As Allied troops came ashore to the shelling and smoke on Omaha Beach and Utah Beach, as they scaled the cliffs of Pointe du Hoc despite falling rocks and flying bullets, they took the first pained steps in liberating a continent from tyranny and securing the future of democracy and justice.

The monthly jobs report shows that 217,000 jobs were added to the economy in May, thereby erasing the number of jobs lost during the recession. The unemployment rate held steady at 6.3 percent.

Around the world over the last quarter century, the image of a single man standing before a column of tanks has been seared into our collective memory. When we think of that man, we think of the struggle for basic human rights and greater freedom, and the brutal lengths to which oppressive governments will go to hold onto power.

With his announcement today, President Obama has sent a clear message that standing for a Europe whole and free remains a priority for the United States, and that President Putin's challenge to our allies and friends will not go unanswered.

After five years, Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl is coming home to a grateful nation. As the war in Afghanistan draws to a close, his return is a reminder to us of the courage and sacrifice of all our men and women in uniform, and the costs of defending liberty and advancing justice.

The amendment codifies the Presidential Memorandum on Federal Fleet Performance issued last week by President Barack Obama. The Memorandum would require all new light duty vehicles in the federal fleet to be alternate fuel vehicles, such as hybrid, electric, natural gas, or biofuel, by December 31, 2015.

General Eric Shinseki has served our country honorably. His career was built on putting his country first, and his decision to resign as Secretary of Veterans Affairs reflects that principle.

This legislation would create an independent commission to evaluate U.S. policies aimed at reducing drug production and trafficking in the Western Hemisphere. The Commission will be required to submit recommendations on future U.S. drug policy to Congress, the Secretary of State, and the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy 12 months after its first meeting.

In a letter to NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, the lawmakers urged NATO to purchase or lease the ships as a common naval asset for the alliance.

This bill would broaden U.S. sanctions against those helping sustain the regime in Pyongyang, whose crimes against humanity the UN Human Rights Office says are "without parallel in the modern world.

This bill would broaden U.S. sanctions against those helping sustain the regime in Pyongyang, whose crimes against humanity the UN Human Rights Office says are "without parallel in the modern world.

This bill would broaden U.S. sanctions against those helping sustain the regime in Pyongyang, whose crimes against humanity the UN Human Rights Office says are "without parallel in the modern world.

After three years of tumultuous change, I hope that these elections will mark a turning point in Egypt. But that will only be the case if Egyptian leaders are willing to make the tough decisions that allow Egypt's economy to grow and prosper, and will permit its people the dignity that they marched for three years ago.

Today, President Obama made a clear and strong case for American leadership in the 21st century and why the United States must remain engaged around the world.

I congratulate the people of Ukraine on holding a successful presidential election, and I congratulate the presumptive President-elect, Petro Poroshenko.

"We believe that the current plans for the monument do history a disservice and don't tell the whole story of the Nazi occupation. If the Hungarian government proceeds as planned, many people both in Hungary and around world will view this monument as an effort to sweep a tragic part of history under the rug," said Rep. Engel.

I am deeply concerned by the Royal Thai Army's drastic step of seizing power, and urge the return to democratic rule.

Before this brazen kidnapping, Boko Haram was virtually unknown around the world. As more of their violent history has come to light, the international community has reacted with shock, horror, and disbelief. But the sad reality is that Boko Haram is not new and neither are their tactics.

H.R. 4573 establishes an "Angel Watch Center" within Immigration and Customs Enforcement that would provide advance notice to foreign countries when a convicted child sex offender travels to that country. The bill also calls on the President to negotiate agreements with foreign governments that would encourage information–information sharing on known child sex offenders.

This resolution strongly condemns the abduction of nearly [300] schoolgirls by the Nigerian terrorist group, Boko Haram, and supports U.S. and international efforts to assist in their recovery.

Katz is a member of the Board of Trustees and Assistant Financial Secretary. She's organized many outreach community programs for the Riverdale Temple, and serves as President of the Women of Reform Judaism. She also serves as the Vice President of the Lower Eastside Service Center in Manhattan, a non-profit organization that assists New Yorkers with mental health and chemical dependency issues.

In a letter to GAO Comptroller General Gene L. Dodaro, Rep. Engel requested information on the progress of agencies across government in meeting challenges in combating illicit sales of firearms in the United States and stemming their flow into Mexico, including federal laws that restrict the collection and reporting of data on firearms purchases.

Once characterized by mutual mistrust, U.S.–Mexico relations are now stronger than ever. I am pleased that the Obama Administration has prioritized our partnership with Mexico from the very start, and I'm happy to see that Secretary Kerry is continuing our high level engagement with his trip there tomorrow.

"Seven decades ago, more than 200,000 Crimean Tatars were forced from their homeland in Crimea by Soviet forces. Nearly half of those deported perished, either in transit or of hunger and disease while in forced exile. Today, we mark this dark chapter in the history of the 20th century, and we join in solidarity with Crimean Tatars around the world still bearing the scars of this terrible tragedy"

"The Tappan Zee Bridge is long overdue for replacement. I toured the Bridge several years ago, and saw exactly how much it has deteriorated. I can only imagine that it's grown much worse since then. I supported the allocation of$1 million for a study back in 2005, and have been fighting for increased funding for this and other critical transportation projects for years."

"Chinese drilling and intimidation of Vietnamese vessels near the Paracel islands are needless provocations that threaten peace and stability across the region. China's behavior is clearly adversarial."

"Chairman Royce and I, along with several other colleagues on this committee, recently visited Kyiv. We heard the same thing over and over again: Ukrainians do not want Russian interference, and they resent Russian attempts to tear their country apart. The people of Ukraine are looking to us and our allies to ensure Putin's attempts to weaken their country do not succeed."

"The Western Hemisphere Drug Policy Commission Act of 2014 would create an independent commission to evaluate American drug policies and programs, assess which efforts are succeeding, and make recommendation on future counternarcotics policy."

"The so-called referendum held on May 11 by separatists in some cities in eastern Ukraine was illegal under Ukraine's constitution, was conducted under the threat of violence, and did not meet even minimal democratic standards. It has no legal force."

Congressman Eliot Engel announced that Manhattan College is one of 33 colleges across the country that will share in a $62,631,600 research grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, as part of the University Transportation Centers (UTCs).

I rise in strong opposition to both the rule and the bill. It's really a political charade and this pointless attempt to find a scandal that simply doesn't exist.

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the leading Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, this evening delivered the following remarks in support of H.Res. 418, Urging the Governmnet of Burma to end the persecution of the Rohingya people and respect intentionally recognized human rights for all ethnic and religious minority groups within Burma

"In the United States, we take reliable electricity for granted. When we flip the switch, we expect the lights to come on. This winter, many of us were frustrated when storms knocked out our power. Life was harder as we impatiently waited for the electricity to be restored. But imagine if the power never came back. And that was your life, every day, year in and year out. That's the stark reality facing many families in Africa."

"House Republicans need to get serious about climate change. This isn't an issue that's only going to affect or kids or grandkids in the very distant future. The demands we are putting on our limited resources has reached the tipping point. A majority of scientists agree we are already experiencing some of the more serious impacts of climate change, which will only get worse without action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, among other things."

"Nurses are on the frontline of our health care system. They play a critical role in our schools, community clinics, and hospitals. Much is asked of them, and their responsibilities have only increased over the years. Nurses comfort us, care for us, and offer their compassion without the need for a prescription. We owe them our thanks, not just one week a year but every day of the year."

"America will not be able to compete globally, if we continue to shortchange students with overcrowd classrooms or underpaid teachers."

"I want to thank the Mayor for meeting with the New York Congressional delegation so early in his term. Mayor de Blasio is off to an excellent start, and I want to give him credit where credit is due. He has released Superstorm Sandy housing funds to those who need it, expanded access to pre-kindergarten, and is addressing New York City's affordable housing crisis."

"The recent abduction of more than 200 Nigerian girls by Boko Haram is a cowardly and despicable act and a horrific abuse of basic human dignity and human rights."

Congressman Eliot Engel presented a Congressional Silver Award to Nicholas Tornatore, a junior at Iona Preparatory School in New Rochelle.

Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, said a better-than-expected monthly jobs report shows that the labor market is continuing to improve, but noted that long-term unemployment is still a problem for approximately 3.5 million people who have been out of work for six months or longer.

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, announced today that his language requiring the use of alternative fuel vehicles by the U.S. Department of Defense, and related agencies, was adopted in the FY 2015 Department of Defense Appropriations bill.

"The people of Iraq should take pride as they chart the course for their country's future."

"Unfortunately, our efforts to disseminate objective news to societies that lack a free media are not as effective as they should be."

"Around the world, millions of people are denied access to objective news. My recent trip to Ukraine was a strong reminder that the competition of ideas is still very much alive and that the United States has an important role to play in facilitating the free flow of information and in sharing our values. The legislation that Chairman Royce and I introduced will strengthen our international broadcasting operations by improving management, enhancing coordination, and empowering journalists and editors to produce high-quality programming that keeps pace with the rapidly evolving international media landscape."

"The United States is making it clear to President Putin–along with the people and businesses aligned with him–that their actions have consequences."

Congressman Engel Urges HUD to leave Sandy funding in tact

Congressman Engel Announces $4.1 million HHS Grant for Mount Vernon Neighborhood Health Center

"I want to express my great sorrow and deepest condolences to all Armenians on this solemn occasion. I also once again call on Turkey to acknowledge the genocide."

"President Abbas should demonstrate that his priority is peace with Israel–not Hamas."

Congressman Engel urges Bronx, Westchester residents to participate in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day

Delegation meets with VP Biden, Travels to Eastern Ukraine

Engel Congratulates Anne Hutchinson Elementary for Green Ribbon Honors

Congressman Engel to HUD: Leave Sandy Funds Alone

"The answer to Putin is that he's not going to crush a free and democratic Ukraine because the people of Ukraine will not stand for it."

Urges Congress to push for tighter rules

Washington, D.C. – House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) and Ranking Member Eliot Engel (D-NY) will lead a bipartisan congressional delegation to Ukraine from Monday, April 21 to Wednesday, April 23. In Kiev, the delegation will meet with U.S. and senior Ukrainian officials to assess the effect of ongoing U.S. efforts to support Ukraine.

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY), the leading Democratic voice on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) will lead a bipartisan congressional delegation to Ukraine from Monday, April 21 to Wednesday, April 23. In Kiev, the delegation will meet with U.S. and senior Ukrainian officials to assess the effect of ongoing U.S. efforts to support Ukraine.

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which has jurisdiction over the Medicaid program, praised a decision by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to grant final approval of an $8 billion Medicaid waiver. The waiver will enable New York State to reinvest savings produced by the Medicaid Redesign Team (MRT) reforms.

"I hope Iran gets the message that we don't forget easily the transgressions of the past."

"As the situation deteriorates it is up to the international community to provide more sustained, reliable support to the African Union and French forces."

"As this subcommittee is well-aware, our actions at home have a major impact on our neighbors in Latin America and the Caribbean."

Enforcement of import ban would reduce violence in U.S. and illegal firearms trafficking to Mexico

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel (NY-16) announced that the U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded over $3 million in grants to non-profits and governmental agencies in his Congressional District, which will provide social services and housing assistance to homeless individuals and families.

"Russia must refrain from further threats and destabilizing actions against Ukraine, and the United States and its European allies must continue to stand up for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and for the right of its people to chart their own future."

"We should remember the failure of the international community to prevent the deaths of hundreds of thousands of innocent Rwandans and remind ourselves of our commitment to ‘never again' allow this scale of atrocity to occur."

"I look forward to hearing the results of the election and to working with India's new government to further advance the U.S.-India partnership."

"I am heartened by the courage of Afghans, and those wishing to represent them. The candidates, the poll workers, and all those who have braved countless acts of violence and intimidation, but still see the importance of making their voices heard are an inspiration."

Adds that Congress needs to look out for those still seeking jobs

WASHINGTON–Rep. Mark Meadows (NC-11), Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), House Foreign Affairs Chairman Ed Royce (CA-39) and Ranking Member Eliot Engel (NY-16) will introduce legislation that would toughen economic sanctions against Hezbollah, a terrorist organization that continues to pose a threat to the United States, our allies and interests throughout the Middle East, and well beyond.

Washington, D.C. -- Congressman Eliot Engel (NY-16) received the Humane Advocate Award from the Humane Society of the United States for his perfect score on their 2013 Humane Scorecard, and for his strident opposition to the King amendment.

Rep. Engel calls for re-instatement of federal limits

Budget will hurt children, seniors and working families

More than 7 million Americans have enrolled in health care plans

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, gave the following remarks on the House floor today during debate on H.R. 4152, the Support for the Sovereignty, Integrity, Democracy, and Economic Stability of Ukraine Act of 2014, and S.2183, United States International Programming to Ukraine and Neighboring Regions.

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), Ranking Member of the Committee, introduced the Turkey Christian Churches Accountability Act (H.R. 4347). The legislation requires an annual report from the State Department on the status of stolen, confiscated or unreturned Christian properties in territories controlled by Turkey.

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, published the following op-ed today in Foreign Policy on Sri Lanka's road to reconciliation.

Washington, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed with overwhelming bipartisan support the Ukraine Support Act (H.R. 4278), introduced by Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the Committee's Ranking Member. The legislation, which passed the House Foreign Affairs Committee earlier this week, promotes Ukraine's sovereignty and democratic institutions while sanctioning those who have sought to undermine Ukraine's independence and stability.

"Using more natural gas in the United States to produce electricity could displace dirtier coal, thus lowering greenhouse gas emissions and the negative impact on our climate. We could also bolster U.S. national security by using natural gas as a transportation fuel, which helps reduce our reliance on oil."

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, delivered the below remarks, as prepared for delivery, at today's full committee markup of H.R. 4278, H.Res. 418, and H.Res 494.

Committee to Consider Ukraine Support Act Tuesday Morning

Congressman Eliot Engel announced four U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grants for three municipalities within Westchester County, totaling $4,681,167, to improve or develop public housing options for low-income families, the elderly and people with disabilities.

"All of us want to see a diplomatic resolution to this crisis, but that desire should not blind us of Iran's long history of delay and deception, which raises serious questions about its sincerity and good faith in these negotiations."

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the Committee's Ranking Member, issued the following statement on the State Department's decision today to expel Syrian diplomats from the United States. The State Department action comes four days after Royce and Engel introduced H. Res. 520, which calls on the Obama Administration to withdraw official recognition of the Assad regime.

"With the presence of more than 20,000 Russian occupation troops and no standards whatsoever for the vote, the referendum represented a clear violation of the Ukrainian constitution and international law."

Calls for Obama Administration to Withdraw Recognition of Assad Regime

Representative Engel says he is appalled by Metro-North safety report Says safety must be a higher priority

Washington D.C. – Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, gave the following statement, as prepared for delivery, at today's full committee hearing "The Promise of the Taiwan Relations Act."

"At a time of crisis in the Middle East, Central Africa, and now Europe, the international affairs budget request supports our diplomatic and development efforts in these and other regions. It provides critical funding to strengthen our allies, fight the spread of infectious disease, combat terrorism, and support many other essential activities."

Washington D.C. – Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, gave the following statement, as prepared for delivery, at today's full committee hearing "Advancing U.S. Interests Abroad: The FY 2015 Foreign Affairs Budget."

"President Putin has violated international law and his country's commitments to Ukraine, and his act of aggression risks inciting further violence and armed conflict between peoples and families. This resolution puts President Putin on notice that his reckless actions will have consequences."

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, received a 100 percent score for his commitment to environmental issues from the Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund on their 2013 Conservation Report Card.

"Without this support, Ukraine's progress could stall in the face of unrelenting pressure from Russia, which has illegally occupied a part of Ukraine, is encouraging separatism and conflict, and which has substantial leverage on the Ukrainian economy."

"This is a critical moment. The U.S., our European allies, and the international community must stand up for Ukraine's unity and territorial integrity."

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), Ranking Member of the Committee, introduced H.Res. 499, which condemns the violation of Ukrainian sovereignty and calls for sanctions on Russian officials, banks and other state agencies. The Committee will consider the resolution at a markup tomorrow, immediately following the Committee's hearing on Ukraine. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. (Note new hearing time; was originally scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m.)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, praised President Obama's proposed budget which he unveiled today.

Washington, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Homeowners Flood Insurance Affordability Act, which delays a price increase for flood insurance premiums. Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, co-sponsored the bill.

"These investments are essential to strengthening our national security, building economic prosperity, and protecting the health and safety of all Americans, while demonstrating our moral values and humanitarian principles."

"Russian military activities in Crimea and the decision today of the Russian Senate to authorize the use of force in Ukraine without the permission of Ukrainian authorities are acts of aggression that violate Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity."

"This long-term strategy will focus not only on building more power plants, but also on increasing African government accountability and transparency, improving regulatory environments, and increasing access to electricity in rural and poor communities through small, renewable energy projects."

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, lent his support of the Democratic Caucus' efforts to raise the federal minimum wage to $10.10 an hour.

The New York State Department of Health says over a half-a-million New Yorkers have signed up for health coverage through the exchange, and 70 percent of enrollees were previously uninsured.

"It's a terrible tragedy that rampant wildlife poaching is driving iconic animal populations toward extinction. But there's also a national security dimension to this growing crisis."

"This agreement appears to provide the best chance at present for a peaceful, negotiated resolution to the crisis. I commend the efforts of Ukrainian leaders who have realized the need for compromise and laud the efforts of the Administration and our European partners, in particular the Foreign Ministers of France, Germany, and Poland, who facilitated this agreement."

Washington, D.C. -- Elected officials from the Bronx met with Acting Postmaster Lilliam Rodriguez Wednesday afternoon to find a solution to mail delivery problems within the 10463 zip code.

"The United States has stood by Kosovo as its people have triumphed over incredible adversity, and I look forward to seeing our partnership continue to flourish, as Kosovo builds a prosperous and secure democracy within a Europe whole, free and at peace."

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel (New York-16) urges Metro-North to quickly adopt new safety recommendations from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in the wake of the deadly train derailment in his Congressional District on December 1.

"At this critical moment, the United States must stand up for the democratic and human rights of the citizens of Ukraine, and for their democratic aspirations and right to choose their own future."

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel (New York-16) urges Metro-North to quickly adopt new safety recommendations from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in the wake of the deadly train derailment in his Congressional District on December 1.

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the Founder/Co-Chair of the House Oil and National Security Caucus, says while new fuel efficiency standards are a positive development, they won't replace the need for alternative energy sources.

"Both sides must hold accountable those who facilitate and perpetrate violence. It is also important to reiterate United States support for the people of Ukraine as they work towards a more democratic and European future."

"I join the Inter-American Commission on Human rights in calling upon the Venezuelan government to protect the human and civil rights of its people."

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which has jurisdiction over the Medicaid program, applauded the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for reaching an agreement in principle with New York State on their pending Medicaid Redesign Team waiver.

Congressman Eliot Engel, a Senior Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee, says he'd like to see a woman elected as President in 2016.

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, spoke with the Mexican Ambassador to the United States yesterday as part of his efforts to help locate missing New Yorker Harry Devert. The conversation comes less than a week after Congressman Engel reached out to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico.

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, received a 93 percent score for his commitment to environmental issues from the League of Conservation Voters on their annual National Environmental Scorecard. The LCV has issued a scorecard every year since 1970.

Local elected officials to file Amicus brief in support of appeal to decision upholding zoning code that allowed 143-foot LG Tower to be built

"The passage of this resolution shows that the United States House of Representatives stands with the people of Ukraine in their struggle for freedom and democracy."

Says Mayor's Education Initiatives Would Help the Working, Middle Classes

"Support for these initiatives will encourage these nations to further pursue important democratic reforms and strengthen their commitment to partnering with Euro-Atlantic institutions, both of which are important to achieve our vision of a Europe whole, free, and at peace."

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel (NY-16), a senior member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, says the latest jobs report shows the economy continues to pick up steam, but emphasizes the need to extend unemployment insurance for those still looking for work.

"The discussion today is important to understanding how we can encourage a political solution in Iraq that will give Sunnis a meaningful stake in the future of their country. This is the only viable way to build a safer future for Iraq, while helping to curb Iranian influence and hopefully reducing the violence in Syria."

"The discussion today is important to understanding how we can encourage a political solution in Iraq that will give Sunnis a meaningful stake in the future of their country. This is the only viable way to build a safer future for Iraq, while helping to curb Iranian influence and hopefully reducing the violence in Syria."

Washington, D.C. – As U.S. Olympians begin arriving in Sochi, Russia for the 2014 Winter Olympics, U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the Committee's Ranking Member, today released a bipartisan video in support of Team USA. In the video, Committee Members from across the nation send best wishes to the U.S. Olympic athletes and coaches who will represent the United States at the Winter Games set to begin Thursday.

"While the Farm Bill the House considered today is a marked improvement from the original House bill, which cut $40 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the $8.5 billion in cuts to the program were simply unacceptable. The House Republican's fixation on cutting aid to the most needy was mitigated, but not eliminated in today's bill."

Congressman Eliot Engel marked the fifth anniversary of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, which champions equal pay for women, by calling for swift passage of the Paycheck Fairness Act – legislation he co-sponsored – to end the wage gap between men and women doing the same job.

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, delivered the below remarks, as prepared for delivery, at today's full committee markup of H.Res. 447 and H.R. 938

"I agree with the President that it's long time for Congress to work together to strengthen working and middle class families."

"Congratulations to the people of El Salvador for their incredible achievements since the monstrous civil war that was still raging barely 20 years ago. They are poised once again to choose a new leader, and for another peaceful transfer of power."

"I call on Svoboda's leadership to condemn this hateful action, distance themselves from similar acts in the future, and reaffirm their commitment to building a pluralistic, tolerant democracy within Europe."

"If allowed to stand, the legislation will constitute a setback to democracy in Ukraine and will only deepen the current political crisis. I therefore call on President Yanukovych to veto immediately these profoundly undemocratic measures."

"While I am encouraged to see the decision concerning Rabbi Weiss resolved in a positive manner, I would note that the broader issue of how Diaspora Jewish communities and their religious leaders are recognized by Israeli state institutions remains largely unresolved."

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel took to the House floor today to urge House GOP to extend unemployment insurance for the 1.3 million Americans who lost it when the extension expired on December 28, 2013. He said it was a failure of government to ignore those who are still recovering from the worst recession since the Great Depression. House Republicans, in mid-December, blocked an effort by Democrats to extend the program before the cut-off, when 137,315 New Yorkers lost their unemployment insurance.

"It is truly a tragedy to see a young country with such hope and promise descend into destructive chaos. I regret that we have to hold a hearing on how to prevent South Sudan from becoming a failed state rather than on its accomplishments since independence."

"This action can only be interpreted as an another blow to freedom of the press and independent journalism in Russia."

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the senior Democratic Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding the passing of former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon.

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the senior Democratic Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding the appointment by the President of Deborah Birx as Ambassador at Large and Coordinator of United States Government Activities to Combat HIV/AIDS Globally.

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the senior Democratic Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today sent a letter to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the Chief Rabbinate's decision to unilaterally reject Jewish status letters written by his constituent, Rabbi Avraham Weiss of New York:

"As North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un continues to starve and oppress his citizens, it is unthinkable that a few fading celebrities would use such an opportunity to reward his brutal regime."

"I strongly condemn the recent spate of violence in Cambodia, which has left three individuals dead and many more injured. I urge all sides to exercise maximum restraint, or risk allowing events to quickly spiral out of control."

"As I have said repeatedly, Ukraine's authorities must respect fundamental democratic principles of freedom of assembly and expression, and of freedom of the press. The government's response to the attacks on Ms. Chornovol and others is a litmus test of its commitment to uphold these principles."

Washington, D.C. – Today, a bipartisan and bicameral group of Congressional leaders expressed deep concern to South Sudan President Salva Kiir Mayardit about the growing ethnic violence and deteriorating security situation in the world's newest independent nation. The Congressional leaders called on all political leaders to cease hostilities and exercise restraint to prevent the violence from further escalating and emphasized the importance of an inclusive political dialogue.

"I believe such action by the ASA is another example of the unfair double standard Israel is regularly and unfairly subjected to by organizations such as yours."

"In establishing his prize, Alfred Nobel sought to recognize individuals who overcame significant hurdles to build fraternity between nations. The Serbia-Kosovo agreement, in which formerly bitter adversaries put aside their differences for the sake of peace and a better future for their countries, exemplifies Alfred Nobel's vision."

"To be clear, the passage of this legislation is a stain on the human rights record of Uganda, and appears to be part of a troubling trend of legislation intended to undermine basic human rights in that country."

Congressman Eliot Engel said today that 1.3 million Americans people will lose their federal unemployment insurance on Dec. 28, unless Congress acts to extend the program. House Republicans in mid-December blocked an effort by Democrats to extend the program before the cut-off, when 127,100 New Yorkers will lose their benefits and another 132,800 will them in the first half of 2014.

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today introduced H. Res. 447, "Supporting the Democratic and European Aspirations of the People of Ukraine, and Their Right to Choose Their Own Future Free of Intimidation and Fear." The resolution calls on Ukrainian authorities to respect the democratic rights of the hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian citizens who continue to demonstrate in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities in support of a democratic, European future for their country. It further states that the United States should hold those who authorize or engage in violence against peaceful protesters personally accountable, including through targeted sanctions, if necessary, and urges all parties to exercise restraint and enter into substantive dialogue to resolve the current political and economic crisis.

"It is very important that Ukraine's authorities understand that the use of force against peaceful protesters will not be tolerated, and we should hold those who authorize or engage in such violence personally accountable – including through the use of individually targeted sanctions, if necessary."

Congressman Eliot Engel announced $1.4 million in grants to 56 heath centers across New York State from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to expand programs to enroll people in health care plans under the Affordable Care Act.

Washington, D.C. – Today, a bipartisan letter was sent to both Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Bangladesh Nationalist Party Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, urging a free, fair, and credible election process.

Congressman Eliot Engel used a joint subcommittee hearing on proposed legislation governing the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to raise the issue of safety at Indian Point with NRC Chairwoman Allison Macfarlane. Rep. Engel said the plant "has an operational history … plagued by irresponsible acts."

Washington, D.C. – Today, H.R. 3509, the Assessing Progress in Haiti Act of 2013, passed unanimously in the House of Representatives.

Washington, D.C. – Today, a group of bipartisan leaders from the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Senate Foreign Relations Committee, the House Ways and Means Committee and the Senate Finance Committee, sent a letter to the U.S. Comptroller General requesting a study to examine the effectiveness of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in an effort to better increase investment, trade and job growth between African countries and the United States.

Congressman Eliot Engel said today the failure of the proposed budget agreement to include an extension of unemployment insurance could cause more than a quarter of a million long-term unemployed New Yorkers to lose their benefits by the end of this year or in the first half of 2014. The Emergency Unemployment Compensation program expires in less than three weeks. Now the only hope for its continuance is for Congress to pass new legislation to extend the bill.

"The authorities must understand they face a stark choice: either live up to their international commitments to respect democratic rights and enter into dialogue to resolve the current crisis, or face consequences if they resort to force."

"This transition will not be easy, and insurgents will challenge government control in parts of the country. The capabilities of the Afghan national security forces are improving, but the ANSF will need additional training and mentoring, which can only occur if the U.S.-Afghanistan Bilateral Security Agreement is finalized."

Washington D.C. – Watch Ranking Member Eliot Engel's opening statement from today's Full Committee hearing "The Iran Nuclear Deal: Does it Further U.S. National Security?" here.

"Now that we have an interim deal, we must focus with laser-like intensity on ensuring that any long-term agreement dismantles all Iranian nuclear infrastructure that could lead to a breakout capacity. Any deal which does not achieve that goal will be a devastating failure."

Washington, D.C. – A bipartisan group of House Members today introduced a H.Res. 434, a resolution honoring the life, accomplishments and legacy of Nelson Mandela and expressing condolences on his passing.

"It is imperative that Ukraine's authorities scrupulously respect and uphold essential freedoms of assembly and expression. All parties must exercise restraint, avoid confrontation, and enter into dialogue."

Congressman Eliot Engel called the 203,000 jobs added to the economy in November, with an unemployment rate dropping to 7%, a good indication the economy is on the path to a sustainable recovery and the 44th consecutive month of job gains.

"Nelson Mandela was one of the great leaders of our time and his passing is a tremendous loss for the people of South Africa and the entire international community."

Rep. Eliot L. Engel, a senior Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Health, praised the enactment of his PEPFAR Stewardship and Oversight Act of 2013, which was signed into law by President Obama, saying the bill "signals the continued commitment of the United States to preventing, treating, and ultimately ending the scourge of HIV/AIDS around the world."

"There is no place in Riverdale, or anywhere, for these offensive symbols of a hateful and lethal ideology that shamed the world. I don't know what kind of demented individual or individuals would do such a thing. It is reassuring that the Police Department has referred this to the Hate Crimes unit. I ask anyone who may have seen something to call the police immediately with all information. This abominable behavior can not be tolerated and those responsible must be made to account for their actions."

"The ICJP represents Jewish parliamentarian from all over the world, and today's meeting represents an important opportunity for Congress to hear from a broad array of Jewish voices on issues of mutual concern."

Today Rep. Engel, joined by Representatives Nita Lowey and Sean Maloney, will lead a moment of silence in the House of Representatives to honor the victims of Sunday's Metro North accident. Congressman Eliot Engel spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives Monday about the Metro North tragedy in which four people died and more than 60 were injured, some critically. (see youtube above)

"I urge the Obama Administration and the international community to redouble their efforts and seek new ways to bring Alan home and reunite him with his family."

"I send my thoughts and prayers to the families of those lost and injured this morning. I am calling on the National Transportation Safety Board to respond immediately and quickly determine the cause of this horrific accident. I will work to ensure that whatever federal assistance is needed is provided as soon as possible."

"PEPFAR started as, and remains, the largest commitment by any individual country in the world to combat a single disease internationally"

"Violence against peaceful protestors is unacceptable, and it is imperative that Ukraine's authorities respect and uphold fundamental rights, including freedom of speech and assembly."

At a time when Americans celebrate a land of plenty, Congressman Eliot Engel today called for the reversal of the recent cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) calling the program essential for helping working people below the poverty line.

Congressman Eliot Engel applauded today's announcement that Medicare recipients have saved $8.9 billion nationwide, including almost $670 million in New York State alone, on prescription drugs as a result of the provisions slowly closing the Medicare Part D donut hole which were included in the Affordable Care Act.

"The future of the U.S.-Afghan relationship is being placed at risk by these needless theatrics. I urge President Karzai to heed the Jirga's recommendations and sign the Bilateral Security Agreement without further delay."

"Not finalizing the agreement under the timeline as previously agreed would be a disservice to the Afghan people, and would undermine Afghan and international security."

"While I am concerned that this interim agreement does not require Iran to completely halt its enrichment efforts or dismantle its centrifuges, I hope that over the next six months, Iran takes the necessary steps to finally end its quest for a nuclear weapons capability."

This November, to coincide with National Diabetes Month, Congressman Eliot Engel is cosponsoring the Minorities Diabetes Initiative Act (HR 3591) which would provide grants to physicians, community based organizations, and other health care providers for the prevention, care, and treatment of diabetes in minority communities.

"Ukraine already has made considerable progress, and it will be truly unfortunate if the Ukrainian authorities succumb to outside pressure and turn their backs on a partnership which so clearly benefits Ukraine and the wider region."

"Buying food locally when it makes sense, like in this case, is cheaper and faster."

"At the end of November, Georgia is set to initial a historic agreement with the EU which will help to strengthen democratic institutions, spur economic growth, and bolster the rule of law."

"It's clear to me that we need a coherent strategy for ensuring that our diplomatic and development efforts are more focused on preventing gender-based violence."

A group of 86 AP Government students and teachers from Mamaroneck High School visited Capitol Hill and met with Congressman Eliot Engel (11/14) on the Capitol steps. Rep. Engel spoke to the group for about 20 minutes, answering their questions on government. The visit was part of the Close Up Foundation Program which seeks to educate students by providing them with the experience to become active citizens in our democracy.

"Moscow must know that its counterproductive, zero-sum approach is not going to prevent aspirant Eastern Partnership members from exercising their sovereign rights."

"By clearly expressing our support as well as our expectations, we will help to make the region more democratic, prosperous and secure, and move one step closer to realizing the vision of a Europe whole, free and at peace."

"At this critical juncture, the PEPFAR Stewardship and Oversight Act is an important demonstration of our ongoing, bipartisan support for the fight against HIV/AIDS."

Congressman Eliot Engel's office at 3655 Johnson Avenue will collect toys for the homeless boys and girls as part of a drive by the Coalition for the Homeless to get toys to children in the City's homeless shelters for the holidays.

Washington D.C. - U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the Committee's ranking member, introduced H.Res. 404, a resolution that expresses deep sympathy and support to the people of the Philippines for the terrible loss of life and massive destruction as a result of Typhoon Haiyan, which landed on November 8, 2013.

Washington D.C. - U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the Committee's ranking member, introduced H.Res. 404, a resolution that expresses deep sympathy and support to the people of the Philippines for the terrible loss of life and massive destruction as a result of Typhoon Haiyan, which landed on November 8, 2013.

"This resolution makes clear that aspirant Eastern Partnership members must be allowed to exercise their sovereign rights."

"But by words and deeds, the burden is on us to actually persuade our Central American friends that we do not have a finger on the electoral scale, and that we will work with whoever is elected."

"But the biggest threat, by far, is Iran's continuing effort to develop a nuclear weapons capability. Many experts believe that Iran is approximately one year away from acquiring this capability, and we must do everything possible to prevent that from happening."

Congressman Eliot Engel with Bettina Graf at the 75th remembrance of Kristallnacht at New Rochelle Beth El Synagogue Sunday. Ms. Graf witnessed firsthand the horror and destruction of the Nazi Pogrom on Jews and Jewish property. Rep. Engel read a description of the Nazi rioting that killed 96 Jews, had 30,000 sent to the camps, and burned down more than 1,000 synagogues. Jews, he said, must be ever vigilant against the rise of anti-Semitism, which is growing in Europe. He also spoke of his worry about Iran over nuclear weapons, saying that Holocaust-denying country does not have a 'right' to enrichment of uranium and must stop, and roll back, its nuclear program.

This alternate side street parking sign apparently was put on at night when the installer couldn't see it was upside down. Congressman Eliot Engel saw the sign on the east side of Broadway outside the Memorial Grove in Van Cortlandt Park after attending a veterans memorial ceremony there Sunday. He wrote to the Department of Transportation asking them to fix the sign.

Congressman Eliot Engel pictured with the display at the annual ALS dinner Thursday telling of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis registry, which was established by Rep. Engel's 2008 legislation. ALS, called Lou Gehrig's Disease, is a fatal, progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting the brain and spinal cord. Approximately 5,600 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with ALS each year, and it is estimated that as many as 30,000 Americans have the disease at any given time. The average life expectancy for a person with ALS is 2 to 5 years from the time of diagnosis. Rep. Engel said, "With a national patient registry to collect information on ALS, we will be able to amass needed data for ALS research, disease management and the development of care standards to help find a treatment and cure for ALS."

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot L. Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines.

Congressman Eliot Engel at Food Bank NYC with (l) Katy Flint Coppinger, Senior Director of Development for the Food Bank for Westchester, and (r) Margarette Purvis, President and CEO of Food Bank for New York City. Rep. Engel was at the New York Anti-Hunger Roundtable Friday at Hunts Point to discuss the impact of cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) on New York, and how to protect and strengthen anti-hunger resources.

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding reports that negotiators may soon finalize the parameters of an interim agreement regarding Iran's nuclear program.

Congressman Eliot Engel, joined by Congressman Jose Serrano, today called for the reversal of the cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) at the Food Bank for New York City, saying these necessary benefits must be preserved.

Congressman Eliot Engel (at mike) speaks at the ownership transfer of Sound Shore Hospital to Montefiore Medical Center, congratulating Dr. Steven Sayfer, (to his right) President and CEO of MMC, on the successful integration of Sound Shore and Mount Vernon Hospitals into MMC. Also at the ceremonies Wednesday were (l-r) Ivar Hyden, New Rochelle City Council, Dr. Sayfer, State Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson, Rep. Engel, State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, and Jared Rice, New Rochelle City Council.

See below for President Obama's remarks to ACA Coalition Partners and Supporters, and at an Organizing for Action Event on November 4, 2013.

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding the decision by M23, a rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo, to lay down its arms.

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding his new social media initiative, #AskEngel, which the Committee on Foreign Affairs will debut today at noon via Twitter.

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding Kosovo's recent municipal elections.

Congressman Eliot Engel presented Certificates of Achievement at the Yonkers Historical Society annual awards brunch Sunday. (l-r) Bayardo Villegas, manager of the Shop Rite Supermarket, was given the Corporate Leader Award; Declan Hoar, a senior at Sacred Heart High School, received the Volunteer of the Year Award; Mina Crasson, a Trustee of the Society, received the 2013 Key to History Award; Anne Kakos, a member of the World War II Cadet Nurse Corps, received the Special Recognition Award; Cong. Engel; and Mary M. Hoar, president of the Yonkers Historical Society.

Calls formula unfair to seniors

Congressman Eliot Engel called the U.S. Department of Transportation loan to build the Tappan Zee Bridge a positive benefit for the area, for the regional economy, and for the people of the Hudson Valley and New England.

"The U.S. consumer should be proud that the companies they support are working to improve human rights around the world, not undermine them."

Congressman Eliot Engel announced that competitive grants from $250,000 to $5 million will be awarded to projects that assess, restore, enhance or create wetlands, beaches and other natural systems. The grants are designed to better protect communities, as well as fish and wildlife species and habitats, from the impacts of future storms and other naturally occurring events.

Congressman Eliot Engel said that the Medicare Part B standard premium will be $104.90 in 2014, the same as in 2013. In addition, the Part B deductible for 2014 will remain the same at $147.

"When it comes to global hunger, Americans have had the right idea. We want to feed the hungry, and since 1954, the Food for Peace program has fed more than a billion people around the world. However, this program is now in urgent need of modernization."

"I strongly oppose cuts to SNAP, and find it a moral outrage we would consider gutting this program when so many Americans are still recovering from the effects of the worst recession in generations."

Congressman Eliot Engel told Republicans, at a hearing on the flawed rollout of the Affordable Care Act today, they were "on the wrong side of history," and were hypocritical in complaining about people unable to sign up for insurance after fighting the law since its enactment.

"I expressed my support for Iraq in its fight against al-Qaeda, and urged the Prime Minister to reduce sectarian tensions by taking steps to address the grievances of Iraq's Sunni population."

"I strongly oppose cuts to SNAP, and find it a moral outrage that we would consider gutting this program when so many Americans are still recovering from the effects of the worst recession in generations." "The bottom line is that these artificial restrictions on our ability to respond to humanitarian emergencies must be reformed to make our programs more flexible and efficient."

Congressman Eliot Engel welcomed the new Israeli Ambassador Ron Dermer in his Washington office Tuesday. The two had a productive meeting in which they discussed the threat of Iran's nuclear program and other issues important to the U.S.-Israel relationship. Rep. Engel said, "I anticipate working with Ambassador Dermer on the many issues involved in our relationship with America's closest ally in the Middle East." Ambassador Dermer was born in Miami, Florida, and moved to Israel in 1997. He has worked within Prime Minister Netanyahu's inner circle as a political adviser for the past four years. He replaces Ambassador Michael Oren.

"During this fragile period we should be rebuilding partnerships in Egypt that enhance our bilateral relationship and support regional stability, and I hope the Administration will reconsider its decision to suspend most military aid to Egypt."

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, hailed the signing by U.S. and Mexican officials of an agreement to combat illicit transnational financial networks.

The Energy and Commerce Committee, of which Congressman Eliot Engel is a senior member, Thursday heard testimony from some of the website contractors on the problems faced by people using the federal exchange website, healthcare.gov, to sign up for health

Congressman Eliot Engel said that polluted air has been officially classified as carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer which reported that it is laced with cancer-causing substances.

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, made the following remarks at a Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) panel regarding Iran's nuclear weapons program.

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on today's Committee meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

Congressman Eliot Engel announced the awarding of a $1,250,749 Department of Education grant for the Mount Vernon Art in Education Development Program to integrate arts education into the curricula and strengthen arts instruction in grades 1-6.

Congressman Eliot Engel's legislation, the Open Fuel Standard Act (H.R. 2493), to require a growing percentage of new cars to operate on nonpetroleum fuels, as well as or instead of petroleum based fuels, was endorsed by the United States Energy Secur

I congratulate my colleagues on coming to an agreement to reopen the government, and stave off the default crisis. However this is no way to run a government. We cannot lurch from crisis to crisis, holding our economy hostage and shutting down our govern

Congressman Eliot Engel was named as a conferee to the Farm Bill Conference Committee, which will work out a compromise Farm Bill with the Senate. Both bodies passed differing bills, so conferees, as they are called, from both houses will negotiate the co

Congressman Eliot Engel said if Republicans drive the United States into default, Americans will suffer grave consequences including losses in retirement accounts, higher mortgage costs, Social Security checks and pensions for disabled veterans halted, an

Washington D.C. – U.S. Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, delivered the below remarks, as prepared for delivery, at today's Full Committee markup of H.R. 3212, the Sean and David Goldman Internationa

Congressman Eliot Engel warned the closure of the federal government was harming small businesses throughout the country, as well as in his Congressional District. Last year the Small Business Administration approved an average of $126,417 in loans a day

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the Senior Democratic Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding the Administration's reported decision to suspend military aid to Egypt.

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the Senior Democratic Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, delivered the following statement, as prepared for delivery, at the Full Committee hearing "Haiti: Is U.S. Aid Effective?"

"President Obama can end our national debt crisis by invoking the 14th Amendment, and instruct the Department of the Treasury to issue whatever instruments are needed to prevent the country from defaulting on our legitimate debts and ruining our economy.

Congressional Eliot Engel met with Mamaroneck Town Supervisor Nancy Seligson to discuss the importance of continuing the recovery from Hurricane Sandy, of federal funding in protecting Long Island Sound, and other environmental issues. Rep. Engel said, "A

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the Senior Democratic Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding the passage of a resolution by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe urging the

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the Senior Democratic Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, delivered the following statement, as prepared for delivery, at the Full Committee hearing "Al Shabaab: How Great a Threat?"

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the Senior Democratic Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, praised the swift passage of legislation extending emergency visas for Iraqis employed by the United States during the Iraq War.

The New York State Healthcare Exchange website, New York State of Health, received 2.5 million ‘hits' when it opened this morning to register New Yorkers for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act. So many ‘hits' in such a short time over

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's expulsion of U.S. embassy personnel.

Washington, DC – Congressman Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement in response to House Republican brinksmanship on the looming government shutdown. Rep. Engel is a senior Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the top Democ

Every Wednesday now through November 27, The New York Botanical Garden's Greenmarket provides affordable, locally grown produce along with fresh and nutritious baked goods and other specialty items. And, the market accepts EBT cards, FMNP, and WIC in

Washington D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed by a vote of 384 to 37 a bipartisan State Department authorization bill to improve security at U.S. embassies and diplomatic facilities around the world, H.R. 2848, the "Department of Stat

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement in response to the House Republican Majority's attempts to shutdown the federal government. The House GOP voted today to send back the Continuing Resolution to the Senate to further the

Congressman Eliot Engel was half way through his remarks on the House floor defending the Affordable Care Act, and holding Republicans responsible for shutting down the government, when Republican members started heckling him.

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding the phone call between President Barak Obama and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on a proposed United Nations Security Council resolution mandating the destruction of Assad's che

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and senior Member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, released the following statement on the recently released U.N. report stating that climate

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and senior Member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, released the following statement on the recently released U.N. report stating that climate

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, praised the Senate passage of the House-amended Organization of American States Revitalization and Reform Act of 2013 -- legislation i

Bronx -- Congressman Eliot Engel's federal bill to prevent employers from requiring access to employees and prospective employees social and networking media accounts is being taken up by the New York City Council.

Washington D.C. – Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today introduced the PEPFAR Stewardship and Oversight Act. This legislation aims to extend critical PEPFAR and Global Fund authorities and streng

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement in response to the U.S. decision to join the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty.

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement in reaction to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's speech to the United Nations General Assembly:

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the terrorist attack at a Pakistani church in which 81 people were killed.

Congressman Eliot Engel presents free Mac laptops to 100 eighth grade students at John Philip Sousa Middle School (MS142) in ceremonies at the Baychester Avenue school Monday. The laptops were a gift from Facebook and the Hispanic Federation, a network of

Congressman Eliot Engel announced the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is awarding $4,264,061 in grant money to Yonkers, to improve housing in the city and expand economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents.

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the terrorist attack at a shopping mall in Nairobi, Kenya.

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on reports that Vladimir Putin and Bashar al-Assad are stalling attempts at the United Nations to come t

Congressman Eliot Engel called the latest attempt by the House Republicans to do away with Obamacare its 42nd exercise in futility. Friday the Republican majority in the House passed a Continuing Resolution funding the government into the next Fiscal Year

Congressman Eliot Engel told a Congressional hearing that it was time to act on climate change because the science is undeniable. "I know that climate change is real," he told a hearing before the Energy and Power Subcommittee, "and I have seen the devast

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, sent a letter to Secretary Kerry urging the State Department to speak out strongly against Russian strong arm tactics aimed at its neighb

"Over the past five years our economy has been growing and our unemployment rate decreasing. But these accomplishments could have been much greater if Republicans in Congress stopped their obsessive efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act, and instead a

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the United Nations report on the use of chemical weapons in Syria.

Today is another beautiful September morning, just like in 2001 when the sunshine was blotted out by the smoke from the World Trade Center. And while the wounds are slowly healing, we will always have the scars of that terrible day in America.

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on Russia's sale of the S-300 anti-aircraft system to Iran.

Washington D.C. – Congressman Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement reacting to the President's speech on Syria.

Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY-16), the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, was part of the briefing on the situation in Syria, as conducted at the White House by President Barack Obama. The meeting was for the leaders of both the House and Se

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) said that the latest jobs report, the 42nd consecutive month of job creation, shows the economic recovery continues, but is still in need of bipartisan Congressional action to pass a jobs package helping the economy make

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) announced today that the Yonkers Coalition for Youth has been awarded a $125,000 grant to help young people deal with substance abuse. The grant is part of the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program, and was issued

Washington, D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, delivered the below remarks as prepared for delivery at today's Committee hearing, "Syria: Weighing the Obama Administration'

New York – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on President Obama's address on Syria.

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following readout on a White House call regarding Syria.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) announced that the City of Yonkers will be receiving $1,612,116 in funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, through the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA). The grant is for Hurricane Sandy r

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) announced that the City of New Rochelle will be receiving $1,419,575 in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The source of the grant comes from the Community Development Block Grants (CDBG),

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on Rwanda's actions to block United Nations sanctions against senior commanders of the M23 rebel

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) wants all who have considered registering for the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, to know the deadline for applying is rapidly approaching. Anyone who knew or had reason to know of physical harm or illness resul

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement after joining with President Barack Obama and other leaders at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC today, as part of the 50th Anniversary of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s historic

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on a broader U.S. strategy in Syria.

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the release of the International Atomic Energy Agency's most recent report regarding Iran'

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding a consultation he had today with Secretary of State Kerry on Syria.

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on remarks made today by U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry regarding the use of chemical weapons in

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement after attending the 50th Anniversary of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous speech on the Lincoln Memorial steps in Washington DC, as part of the historic March on Washington in 196

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on President Obama's response to reports that the Assad regime used chemical weapons against its

New York – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding reports that the Assad regime in Syria again used chemical weapons.

New York – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement upon receiving a reply from General Martin Dempsey to his letter dated August 5th, requesting further clarif

New York – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding the Administration's review of the U.S.'s current Egypt aid policy.

New York – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding today's accusation by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Erdogan that Israel has played a role in th

Washington D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the recent violence in Egypt.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Defense announced it plans to extend full personnel benefits to same-sex military and civilian couples. The benefits will become available by September 3, and a

Congressman Eliot Engel Wednesday denounced a proposed office building that would rise high over the Palisades and ruining the view of these magnificent cliffs. Rep. Engel was joined by State Senator Jeffrey Klein and Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz at a n

Congressman Eliot Engel is working with the Coalition for the Homeless to help the city's homeless children get ready for school by taking part in ‘Project: Back To School," a drive to collect school supplies for the more than 21,000 school age childr

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, joined by Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Senator Menendez (D-NJ), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Com

New York City – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democratic member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement after meeting with Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou.

Engel addresses the U.S./India Political Action Committee (USINPAC) conference discussing regional cooperation in Afghanistan post 2014.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) called today for legislation to restore the Voting Rights Act prior to the upcoming 2014 midterm elections in order to protect voters from discrimination, and ensure all Americans have full and equal access to the ballot

Congressman Eliot Engel talks with some of his youngest constituents at the Yonkers Riverfront Library Wednesday at the Summer Reading Buddies Program where volunteers help elementary school children with their summer reading assignments. Last summer, mo

Washington, D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the White House's decision to cancel a bilateral meeting with Russia President Vladimir Putin prior to

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the final 2013 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) requirements today. Under the program, oil-and-gas companies are required to blend biofu

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Eliot Engel (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, issued the following statement on elections in Zimbabwe:

Washington, D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, sharply criticized the sentences handed down by a Turkish court today in a highly publicized case against those accused of attempting to overthrow

Washington, D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, sent the following letter to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Martin Dempsey, requesting clarifications on possible U.S.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) wants equality in all federal benefits for every American – regardless of their sexual orientation. Rep. Engel is a co-sponsor of legislation expanding Social Security benefits for same-sex families.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) applauded the announcement by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today clarifying what gluten-free products on the market actually entail. Rep. Engel is a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) voted against the latest House Republican attempt to repeal part of the landmark Affordable Care Act. The latest marked the 40th attempt by the House Republican Majority to repeal the law since they claimed the majority

Congressman Eliot Engel announced the awarding of a $509,506 Department of Homeland Security grant to the Yonkers Fire Department that will allow the department to upgrade its communications and safety equipment.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) said that the latest jobs report, the 41st consecutive month of job creation, is a continuing sign the economic recovery continues to gain momentum. The unemployment rate dropped to 7.4% - the lowest it has been since De

Washington, D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, released the following statement on U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry's announcement that foreign national same-sex spouses will now

Washington, D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel, the senior Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, released the following statement on Russia's decision to grant temporary asylum to Edward Snowden.

Washington, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed by an overwhelming majority the bipartisan "Nuclear Iran Prevention Act," introduced by U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep. Eliot Engel (D

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) released the following statement marking the 48th anniversary of the creation of Medicare and Medicaid. Rep. Engel is a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee Subcommittee on Health.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) congratulated Westchester County for obtaining nearly $2.5 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for strengthening the Yonkers Joint Wastewater

Congressmen Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) will co-sponsor legislation to make it easier for condominiums and cooperatives to be eligible for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Individual Assistance, and eliminating the cap on aid so that residents can hav

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel, the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today released a statement on the resumption of peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16), the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, was invited by U.S. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew (a Riverdale resident) to present World Bank President Jim Kim with a Developmental Impact Award at the Treasury

Congressman Eliot Engel's (D-NY-16) amendment requiring the use of alternative fuel vehicles by the U.S. Department of Defense, and related agencies, was adopted in the FY 2014 Department of Defense Appropriations bill. Earlier this year, the same am

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding the State-Foreign Operations Appropriations bill that passed the House Appropriations Committee.

Washington, D.C. – H.R. 1409, the Export Promotion Reform Act, introduced by U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel, was approved unanimously today by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. The legislation, featured in Minority Whip Steny Hoyer's ‘Make It In A

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel, the senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today criticized a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia allowing the State Department to continue to refuse American ci

Washington, D.C. – Washington, D.C. – Ranking Member Eliot Engel released the following statement on the European Union's decision to place Hezbollah's military wing on its terrorist list: The EU's decision to place Hezbollah&#

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the Latino - Jewish Congressional (LJC) Caucus, a bipartisan group of Latino and Jewish members in the U.S. House of Representatives who work together on issues of common concern, are introducing five principles – inclu

Congressman Eliot Engel demanded that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority restore the BX 26 and BX 28 bus lines to Co-op City as part of its service restoration plans. The 12-term congressman said: "I understand that the MTA is announcing plans t

Congressman Eliot Engel's (D-NY-16) voted against the partisan House Republican bill that would make the outdated No Child Left Behind (NCLB) education policy even worse. Rep. Engel has long called for a rewrite of the nation's education policy,

Legislation Implements Security Recommendations of Benghazi Review Panel

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) chastised the House Republicans for holding another politically charged vote on the Affordable Care Act – now up to 39 votes against the law – despite reports that New Yorkers will see a 50% reduction in premi

$2.4 Million in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Funding Will Support Local Service Providers More Than 62,000 Veterans Homeless Each Night Elmsford, NY – Representatives Eliot Engel, Sean Patrick Maloney, and Nita Lowey today announced a

Congressman Eliot Engel's (D-NY-16) amendment requiring the use of alternative fuel vehicles by the U.S. Department of Energy, and related agencies, was adopted in the FY 2014 Energy and Water Appropriations bill. Last month, the same amendment was i

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) voted against the House GOP Leadership's passing of a watered down Farm Bill which omitted the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Historically, the SNAP program has been part of the Farm Bill – w

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the Committee's Ranking Member, released the following statement in response to ongoing events in Egypt

"It is appropriate that the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of our nation's freedom, should be reopened on July 4th, our nation's birthday. The gift to America from the people of France is known worldwide as a symbol of democracy. The Statue is openin

Washington, DC– U.S. Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Besir Atalay's accusation that "diaspora Jews" are behind the recent prot

"Forty nine years ago today President Lyndon Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to restart the process of ending the blight of segregation in the United States. The Act ended segregation in public places and banned employment discrimination on th

Congressman Eliot Engel joined Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and the New York City Congressional delegation in urging Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan to cut bureaucratic tape in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the top Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, released the following statement after the President issued an executive order to combat the illegal trade in wildlife.

Congressman Engel was one of only 67 Congress members to vote against the Defense of Marriage Act, a stand upheld by the Supreme Court in a ruling last week. He said when the Supreme Court ruled against DOMA, "In 1996, I voted against DOMA, and I was pro

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) slammed House GOP Leadership for failing to work with Democrats in the House and Senate on a bipartisan solution to prevent a scheduled doubling of the interest rate on subsidized Stafford student loans. As a result, the

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the top Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, released the following statement after the announcement that Steve Linick has been nominated to be the State Department Inspector General.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) applauded the U.S. Senate for passing a bipartisan, comprehensive immigration reform plan today, and urged House leadership to do the same. Rep. Engel has supported comprehensive reform, with a path to citizenship, for m

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the top Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, released the following statement on the recent elections in Albania.

Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court's decision affirming a lower court decision overturning the California law against same sex marriage. Rep. Engel is a long-time supporter of marriage equality in the

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) and Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL-27) introduced the Open Fuel Standard Act (H.R. 2493) which would require 30 percent of new automobiles in 2016, 50 percent in 2017, and 50 percent in each subsequent year, to o

Washington, DC– Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) had legislation approved today by a bipartisan voice vote by the House Foreign Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Trade. Rep. Engel is the top Democrat on the Foreign Affairs Committee. The "Export

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional. Rep. Engel was one of only 67 House Members to vote against the bill in 1996, and is on

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) applauded the actions taken today by President Barack Obama to reduce carbon pollution from the nation's power plants. Rep. Engel is a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) is calling for immediate, bipartisan action in Congress to respond to the U.S. Supreme Court's 5-4 ruling along partisan lines to toss Section 4 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. The Court said in the ruling that Congre

Washington, DC– Today, Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), the Committee's Ranking Member, and Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Middle East and North

Washington, DC–U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel (NY-16), the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, published the following article in the Huffington Post today on the opportunity to strengthen US-Indian relations during Secretary Kerry's tri

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) voted against the House Republican Leadership's legislation to ban abortions after 20 weeks. This legislation, he said, would greatly endanger the health of the mother. It would deny care to women in the most despera

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) was invited to the White House today to be part of Vice President Joseph Biden's public endorsement of continuing the fight towards achieving sensible and reasonable gun control legislation.

Washington, DC– Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16), Ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement on security transition in Afghanistan and the Taliban commitment to peace talks.

Washington, DC–Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16), Ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement in honor of the 10th anniversary of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). To view Rep.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) is demanding support from House GOP Leadership to prevent the doubling of the interest rate on subsidized Stafford student loans on July 1. Rep. Engel joined Democratic colleagues in submitting a bill to freeze the inter

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement after news that the Syrian regime used chemical weapons against its own populace.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) said that the May jobs report, the 39th consecutive month of job creation, is a promising sign that the economic recovery is gaining momentum. However, he cautioned that much work still needs to be done.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16), the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, was honored at the 29th Annual Cyprus and Hellenic Leadership Conference with the prestigious Frizis Award. This honor is given annually to a prominent member o

Congressman Eliot Engel's (D-NY-16) amendment requiring the use of alternative fuel vehicles by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security was adopted in the FY 2014 Homeland Security Appropriations bill. Earlier in the week, the same amendment was inc

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16), the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement after President Barack Obama announced the resignation of National Security Advisor Tom Donilon, and the appointment of U.S. Ambas

Congressman Eliot Engel's (D-NY-16) amendment requiring the use of alternative fuel vehicles by the U.S. Veterans Administration was adopted in the FY 2014 Military Construction/VA Appropriations bill.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) was presented with the Legislative Leader award Wednesday by the Humane Society of the United States for his support of animal protection legislation. The award was specifically for his leadership on strengthening enforc

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) cosponsored the Long Island Sound Stewardship and Restoration Act to provide funds for cleanup, water quality, shoreline preservation and other critical environmental and conservation needs. The bill streamlines the auth

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) will vote against the latest House Republican repeal of the landmark Affordable Care Act. Speaker John Boehner said in a Politico report that this new vote to repeal is for the 30 new members of the GOP conference who di

In recognition of Mother's Day this Sunday, Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) and Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX-26) introduced the Gestational Diabetes (GEDI) Act of 2013. According to the American Diabetes Association, up to 18 percent

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) announced today that the historic Saint Paul's Church and Cemetery in Mount Vernon will receive $100,000 from the U.S. Department of the Interior as part of the Disaster Relief Appropriations Act of 2013. The funds w

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) voted against the House GOP Majority's latest attempt to politicize the raising of the federal debt ceiling by voting to pay China first over any domestic expenditures for our infrastructure, our veterans, or our heal

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) voted against what he called a "shameless attempt to destroy the 40-hour work week." House Republicans passed the Working Families Flexibility Act (H.R. 1406), which would encourage employers to demand longer hours by cu

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) said that thousands of people who live in cooperatives and condominiums must not be excluded from vital Superstorm Sandy relief funds because of the type of home they live in.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement after the New York Post reported that four executives at Con Edison split $614,000 in bonuses – with CEO Kevin Burke receiving $315,400. The bonuses were awarded because of the "signi

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) urged people to take part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, sponsored by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). It gives the public an opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their home

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) has re-introduced legislation, the Cell Phone Theft Protection Act (H.R. 1730), to discourage cell phone theft by requiring wireless commercial services to cut off service to a stolen phone.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement after it was reported today that the Boston Marathon bombers intended to come to New York City and detonate their remaining explosives in Times Square.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) has re-introduced the Nuclear Disaster Preparedness Act, to ensure the Federal Government has a coherent nuclear disaster response plan. It would require the President put one Federal Agency in charge of coordinating the

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement after Fleet Week 2013, scheduled for late May, was cancelled because of budget cuts resulting from the federal sequester.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) re-introduced two bills today aimed at reducing deaths and injuries due to distracted or impaired driving.

U.S. Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the top Democratic on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding the landmark agreement achieved today between Kosova and Serbia to normalize ties.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY) and Congressman David Cicilline (D-RI) applaud everyone who is taking part in this year's National Day of Silence on April 19.

U.S. Rep. Eliot L. Engel, the top Democratic on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, spoke at today's committee hearing, "Securing U.S. Interests Abroad: The FY 2014 Foreign Affairs Budget." Secretary of State John Kerry appeared before the committee

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) urged his Congressional colleagues to support his Guaranteed 3% Cost of Living For Seniors Act, which would guarantee a minimum three percent increase annually in COLA for Social Security recipients. This year's COLA

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) repeated his call for the closure of Indian Point following the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report calling the emergency evacuation plan inadequate to protect people within the 10-mile evacuation zone.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) repeated his call for a long-term, bipartisan agreement for the federal budget, and an end to the brinksmanship which has marred the fiscal debate since 2011.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) is calling for swift passage of the Paycheck Fairness Act of 2013 – legislation he co-sponsored – to end the wage gap between men and women doing the same job.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) announced today that the City of Yonkers was awarded a $2,062,270.19 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) announced the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is awarding $108,175 in grant money to the Village of Pelham Manor.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) is urging the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to classify Westchester County as a region "most impacted and distressed" by Superstorm Sandy. This designation will enable the county to receive the p

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) announced the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is awarding $519,744 in grant money to the Village of Larchmont.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) is urging the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to clarify the allocation of Superstorm Sandy funds for Westchester residents recovering from the aftermath of that storm.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) issued the following statement on the day oral arguments were heard before the U.S. Supreme Court on the constitutionality of the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA).

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved a 15-day extension, for those affected by Hurricane Sandy, to apply for federal disaster assistance. Applications must be submitted by April 13.

Washington, DC--Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) said the House Republican budget – which passed the House solely with Republican votes – would be "damaging to our country," and will thankfully never be adopted by the Senate.

Today, Congressmen Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) and Steve Israel (D-NY-03), along with 19 bipartisan Members of Congress, called on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to include co-op and condo owners among those eligible for disaster aid.

"I would like to wish everyone a Happy St. Patrick's Day, including warm greetings to my Irish and Irish-American friends. This annual demonstration of Irish pride throughout the tri-state area is truly inspiring, and I always enjoy participating in

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) met with Vice President Joseph Biden and White House staff this week to discuss President Barack Obama's upcoming trip to the Middle East, and his first visit as President to Israel. Rep. Engel is the Ranking Member

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) criticized the House Republican Budget plan as being "tone deaf" and "damaging to the county." This budget has no chance for adoption in the Senate. Rep. Engel has repeatedly called for a bipartisan, balanced approach t

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) said that the February jobs report, the 36th consecutive month of job creation, shows that the economy is beginning to gain momentum.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) voted against the House Republicans' Continuing Resolution to fund the government, which holds spending levels reflecting the cuts made in the 2011 Budget Control Act, from which we will see sequestration cuts to Medi

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16), the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and a former Chairman of the Western Hemisphere subcommittee released the following statement regarding the passing of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) voted in favor of the Senate-passed, bipartisan, Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) which, due to inaction by the House Republican Leadership, expired at the beginning of 2013. Rep. Engel joined 60 Republicans in rejectin

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) called the series of automatic budget cuts – known as sequestration – a "stupid" plan which will have an extremely negative impact on families and the nation.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) urged support for President Obama's initiative to make early education a nationwide priority, calling the early years of a child's life critical for building a strong foundation for a child's development.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) co-sponsored legislation to provide federal disaster relief to places of worship which suffered from the devastation wrought by Superstorm Sandy in October. The bipartisan bill overwhelmingly passed the full House today

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) applauded President Barack Obama's State of the Union address and called for a bicameral, bipartisan effort to reach consensus on the various issues raised in the speech. Rep. Engel is the Ranking Member of the House

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) spoke at a Manhattan College event today regarding the Harkin-Engel Protocol, which was established in 2001 to seek the elimination of forced child labor in the growing and processing of cocoa beans. Over 200 people

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) criticized the U.S. Postal Service plan to end Saturday delivery service by August, calling the move part of a program of eventual elimination of service by the Post Office. In recent months, the Postal Service has closed

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16), Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-9), and Congressman Michael Grimm (R-NY-11) have re-introduced legislation to protect the users of social networking sites from having to divulge their personal information to employers

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) said that the January jobs report, the 35th consecutive month of job creation, shows continued economic recovery, but cautioned that it can still be adversely affected by partisan rancor and the looming so-called sequestr

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) will be re-introducing legislation to ban the "Five-seveN" handgun when the House re-convenes next week. This handgun is a pistol capable of killing a police officer wearing a bullet-proof vest from over 200 meters away

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) is encouraged by the comprehensive immigration reform plans unveiled by President Obama and by the bipartisan group of Senators known as the "Gang of Eight." Rep. Engel has supported comprehensive reform with a path to

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) ripped Con Edison's request for rate increases after their abysmal performance in restoring power in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Close to a million customers in Westchester County and New York City lost power

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) voted against the so-called "No Budget, No Pay Act" which temporarily suspended the debt ceiling for three more months, but tied holding the vote today to having the Senate pass a budget, which would then allocate funds

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement after the House Republican leadership decided not to vote on any Hurricane Sandy relief legislation before adjourning. The Senate already passed a measure providing $60 billion to the affec

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-16) was sworn in as a member of the 113th Congress today, embarking upon his first day in representing the new 16th Congressional District incorporating parts of the Bronx and Westchester County.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) voted in favor of the Senate-passed solution to the so-called "fiscal cliff," addressing the many tax rates which were due to increase at the end of 2012. The agreement also temporarily shuts off the "sequester" cuts to

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) demanded the House Republican leadership schedule a vote immediately to provide badly-needed assistance to the millions of people affected by Hurricane Sandy. Rep. Engel called the decision by House leadership not to all

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement after the New York State Thruway Authority selected the Tappan Zee Constructors' proposal for a replacement Tappan Zee Bridge.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) said Monday's decision by the New York State Thruway Authority to skip toll hikes for the next two years is good news. This decision shows the Authority responded to elected officials and drivers who criticized propo

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement in response to the senseless murders in an elementary school in Newtown, CT.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) hailed the 33rd consecutive month of job creation following the U.S. Department of Labor reporting an increase of 146,000 jobs in November. The unemployment rate dropped to the lowest number in four years – 7.7 per

Congressman Eliot Engel announced the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is awarding $1,710,377 in grant money to Mount Vernon.

Congressman Eliot Engel issued the following statement after the House Democratic Caucus voted by acclamation to make him the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee for the 113th Congress. He has been the top Democrat on the Western Hemisp

Congressman Eliot Engel said that Medicare recipients saved $5 billion nationwide – over $364 million in New York State – on prescription drugs as a result of provisions within the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Rep. Engel is an enthusiastic supp

Congressman Eliot Engel said the $20 million in federal funds was awarded to New York State for emergency repairs of roads damaged by Hurricane Sandy.

Congressman Eliot Engel issued the following statement after testifying in the U.S. Senate about the need for a speedier distribution of emergency funds for New York, and the surrounding region, following the devastation inflicted by Hurricane Sandy.

Rep. Eliot L. Engel, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement following the United Nations' General Assembly's vote to make Palestine a "nonmember observer state."

Congressman Eliot Engel issued the following statement after a majority of Democrats on the Foreign Affairs Committee agreed to support his candidacy to become Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) said that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has agreed to include Westchester and Rockland Counties as part of the major disaster declaration. Rep. Engel directly requested the agency include Rockland and We

Congressman Eliot Engel strongly urged the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to add Westchester and Rockland Counties to the major disaster declaration, and grant the two counties a waiver of preliminary assessment reports to speed aid to the st

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) announced that Westchester and Rockland Counties are eligible for federal emergency disaster funds for damage and losses caused by drought and excessive heat since June.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) welcomed today's ruling, by the three-judge 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New York City, that the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional. Rep. Engel was one of only 67 House Members to vote ag

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) urged his Congressional colleagues to support his Guaranteed 3% Cost of Living For Seniors Act, which would guarantee a minimum three percent increase annually in COLA for Social Security recipients. This comes following

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) said the employment rate dropping significantly, to 7.8 percent, and the addition of 114,000 private sector jobs, were positive signs for the economy and good news for Americans. The unemployment rate fell from 8.1 perce

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) condemned the House Republican's thinly-veiled efforts to cripple the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The so-called "Stop the War on Coal Act of 2012" (HR 3409) was passed by the House today, with Rep. Engel v

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) voted in favor of legislation he co-sponsored, the Recalcitrant Cancer Research Act, which is designed to enhance medical research on cancers with high mortality rates, including pancreatic cancer. Rep. Engel is a senior

Congressman Eliot Engel (NY-17) and Congresswoman Nita Lowey (NY-18) today announced Westchester Community College and Rockland Community College will receive a total of $210,408 in federal funding to help outsourced workers and veterans gain skills to fi

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) criticized House Republicans for trying to weasel out of legislation to cut funds for military and social programs, called a sequestration agreement. The cuts were agreed to as part of the Budget Control Act of 2011, to r

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement in response to the attacks on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya, which resulted in the murder of Ambassador Christopher Stevens, Foreign Service Information Management Officer Sean Smith

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement to mark the 11th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 in New York City, Washington DC, and rural Pennsylvania, which resulted in the deaths of nearly 3000 people.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) said the August jobs report is yet another example of how the American people need its elected representatives to work together to boost the economy, rather than hold the recovery hostage for political gain. The U.S. Dep

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement after the Democratic Party amended its platform to make it clear that it supports Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

The Rockland County District Attorney's office is receiving a Department of Justice grant of $250,000 to increase coordination among criminal justice and mental health organizations, Congressman Eliot Engel announced Wednesday.

"Once again innocent people are being shot on our streets, this time a victim, his killer, and bystanders outside the Empire State Building. It is appalling that people going to work, or getting coffee to start their work day are not safe."

Congressman Eliot Engel announced a US Department of Health and Human Services grant of $193,032, for a program to curb drinking among underage high school students in South Orangetown.

Congressman Eliot Engel announced a $193,032, four-year grant, for the Mount Vernon Community Coalition STOP Act Project to prevent and reduce underage alcohol use.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement marking the 92nd anniversary on Saturday of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution granting women the right to vote.

Congressman Eliot Engel announced a $1.9 million grant for Montefiore Medical Center by the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure women, infants, and youth living with HIV/AIDS receive comprehensive medical care and support services.

"For almost eight decades, Social Security has provided a lifeline to millions of Americans and improved the lives of those who would be in great need without it. It has been one of our most successful social programs – just as Medicare and Medicai

Congressman Eliot Engel issued the following statement following the decision from the Federal Impasse Panel that certain American U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) employees, who have been serving under "temporary" status overseas do not have to r

Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) co-sponsored legislation requiring face-to-face purchase of ammunition, to prevent individuals from buying unlimited amounts of ammunition over the Internet. The legislation would ensure that law enforcement is alerted to any s

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) said the July jobs report's mixed results – 163,000 jobs added, the most in five months, but a small uptick in the unemployment rate – proves that Congress should not break for August recess, and must come

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) announced all new and renewed health care plans will be required to provide free coverage of key women's preventative services at the start of their plan year. This provision of the Affordable Care Act takes effect t

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) voted against the House Republican plan to extend all of the Bush Tax Cuts, including those for the wealthiest Americans. Instead, he voted for the Democratic alternative – an identical version of the Senate-passed

Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) slammed the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for continuing their refusal of a minute of silence to honor the 11 Israeli athletes murdered at the 1972 Munich Games by Palestinian terrorists. Rep. Engel is a senior member o

They will also call on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to reconsider its rejection of recent requests to hold a minute of silence during the opening ceremonies of this year's Olympic Games, which will take place the following day.

Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) expressed their sympathy to the family of Ghanaian President John Atta Mills, and the people of Ghana, after the untimely death of President Mills today. Sen. Harkin and Rep. Engel are the authors

Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) said the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) analysis of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act, but limit the Medicaid expansion, will reduce the cost of the Affordable Care Act by $84 billion whi

Reps. Eliot Engel and Nita Lowey are calling for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to hold a minute of silence to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the terrorist murder of 11 Israeli Olympians at the 1972 Munich Olympics.

Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) outlined his concerns about the safety of the Indian Point nuclear reactor in Buchanan to Dr. Allison Macfarlane, the new Chair of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

"I am very pleased that President Obama supports a moment of silence at the Olympic Games in London to honor the memory of the Israeli athletes slain at the 1972 Munich Olympics."

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement in response to the deadly bombing of a bus in Bulgaria carrying Israeli tourists, killing six and injuring over 30. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement that "all t

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement after voting no on legislation related to the sequestration, which was negotiated as part of the Budget Control Act of 2011 to reduce the deficit. The sequestration was designed to be a har

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) welcomed news that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the medication Truvada, designed to prevent HIV transmission. It is the first drug approved to reduce the risk of infection in individuals at high ri

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) introduced legislation this week – along with colleagues Rep. Lois Capps (D-CA-23) and Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-9) – to ensure the safety of rental car drivers by prohibiting the rental or sale of vehicles un

At an Energy and Power Subcommittee hearing on Tuesday, Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) stressed the importance of his proposed legislation, the Open Fuel Standard. This bill would require 50 percent of new automobiles in 2014, 80 percent in 2016, and

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) voted against the latest House Republican repeal of the landmark Affordable Care Act. This was the 31st time since the Republicans took over the House, and comes less than two weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld th

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) voted for the House-Senate agreement to fund surface transportation through September 2014. Included in the legislation was an agreement to extend low student loan rates for another year – avoiding the potential do

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) condemned the House Republican Majority for its contempt vote against U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder. Rep. Engel was one of the many Members of Congress who walked out of the chamber in protest rather than take part i

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the Affordable Care Act was constitutional.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down three out of four provisions of S.B. 1070, the controversial Arizona state immigration law.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) slammed the U.S. Supreme Court for overturning the Montana state law passed to ban corporate campaign spending.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement after the U.S. District Court in Fort Worth, Texas ruled in favor of American Airlines and blocked efforts by the Communications Workers of America to hold organizing elections for nearly 10

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) voted against the House Republican leadership's energy legislation on Thursday, calling it a "wish list for Big Oil." Rep. Engel is a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Ener

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) announced that over $400,000 in grants will be available to New York City groups to aid hundreds of local homeless veterans with job training. The grants are part of the $15 million provided by the U.S. Department of Lab

Congressman Eliot Engel announced a $12,839,157 grant for the Bronx Regional Health Information Organization to create data registries and predictive systems to encourage early care interventions to better manage high-risk, high-cost patients.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) released the following statement after Dr. John Howard, director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, said the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act will include cancer on the list of dis

Congressman Eliot Engel's (D-NY-17) amendment requiring the use of alternative fuel vehicles by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security was adopted in the FY 2013 Homeland Security Appropriations bill. The amendment codifies the Presidential Memorand

The House Committee on Foreign Affairs today adopted a resolution sponsored by Reps. Eliot Engel and Nita Lowey calling on the International Olympic Committee to hold a minute of silence to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the terrorist murder of 11 Is

Congressman Eliot Engel's (D-NY-17) amendment requiring the use of alternative fuel vehicles by the U.S. Department of Energy was adopted in the FY 2013 Energy & Water Appropriations bill. The amendment requires all new light duty vehicles in the fede

Congressman Eliot Engel said today's Department of Labor employment numbers showed that the federal government must take action to stimulate the economy and put Americans back to work.

Congressman Eliot Engel voted to approve the FY 2013 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, which supports our troops and honors our veterans by funding critical veterans' health services, and funds the construction of key faci

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) approved of the closing of 26 bus lines for safety reasons by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The buses transported close to 2,000 passengers per day along I-95 between New York and Florida. In March 2011, a bus r

Congressman Eliot Engel issued the following statement in opposition to The Prenatal Nondiscrimination Act, which would have made it "a federal offense to perform, solicit funds to perform, or coerce a woman into a sex-selection abortion." It would have

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) welcomed today's unanimous ruling, by the three-judge 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Boston, that the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) was unconstitutional. Rep. Engel was one of only 67 House Members to vot

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement after New York State was granted waivers from the harshest parts of "No Child Left Behind," (NCLB).

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement after New York State was granted waivers from the harshest parts of "No Child Left Behind," (NCLB).

Congressional Eliot Engel applauded the White House's quick action in nominating Allison Macfarlane to chair the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Rep. Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, urges a rapid confirmation fr

Congressman Eliot Engel congratulated the Bronx High School of Science for being named one of the top 25 high schools in the northeast by Newsweek/Daily Beast in its annual survey of high schools across America.

Congressman Eliot Engel congratulated Irvington High School for being named one of the top 25 high schools in the northeast by Newsweek/Daily Beast in its annual survey of high schools across America.

On the heels of the International Olympic Committee again refusing to honor the 40th anniversary of Israeli athletes and coaches murdered at the 1972 Olympic Games, Congressman Eliot Engel and Congresswoman Nita Lowey today announced the introduction of H

"Today marks the 58th anniversary of the 1954 Supreme Court decision, Brown v. Board of Education, the landmark decision that declared separate was not equal in educating our young people. It declared state laws establishing separate rules for African-Ame

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement criticizing the alteration of the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), stating that the bill passed on Wednesday afternoon put women's lives in jeopardy.

Congressman Engel said the JPMorgan Chase loss of $2 billion loss in hedge fund derivatives trading demonstrated that banks, even ‘banks too big to fail', must be more stringently regulated so their actions don't threaten the economy. Rep. Engel m

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) welcomed news that a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel has recommended the medication Truvada be approved for the prevention of HIV transmission. The advisory panel made the recommendation of Truvada use

Congressman Eliot Engel's (D-NY-17) amendment requiring the use of alternative fuel vehicles by the U.S. Departments of Commerce and Justice, and related agencies, was adopted in the FY 2013 Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations bill. The amend

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) applauded the announcement from President Barack Obama that he is now officially supporting legalized same sex marriage.

Representatives of the Social Security Administration will be at Congressman Eliot Engel's Bronx office on Wednesday, May 23rd to assist people with questions or problems concerning this program.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) joined with House colleagues in a letter to Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe asking him to delay any closing of local post offices beyond the end of the moratorium on May 15. This will enable Congress to complete legis

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement regarding Teacher Appreciation Day. In addition, this week is also Teacher Appreciation Week.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement in response to the Obama Administration's new rules to provide oversight of fracking on public lands. Companies seeking to use the process on federal lands will have to obtain governmen

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) said the April jobs report was a sign the economy is improving but it also makes clear that Congress cannot continue to sit on the sidelines. The 12-term Congressman said "we must begin passing legislation to aid the priv

Congressman Eliot Engel announced the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is awarding $278,433,450 in grant money to New York City.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of Osama bin Laden's death. Rep. Engel is a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) urged people to take part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, sponsored by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). It gives the public an opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) voted against the House Republican legislation which would have raided funding for preventative health care, to keep federal student loan rates from doubling. His comments can be viewed here - http://www.youtube.com/wat

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) has introduced legislation protecting users of social networking sites from having to divulge personal information to employers, schools and universities. The legislation protects people already employed or enrolled, and

Responding to efforts by Turkey to block Israel's attendance at an upcoming NATO summit, Congresswoman Shelley Berkley (NV) and Congressman Eliot Engel (NY) today issued the following statement:

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) said he was concerned about how the U.S. Supreme Court would rule on the constitutionality of Arizona's immigration law, as well as the Affordable Care Act, because of the court's turn to activism, demonstrated in

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement following a report released on Monday by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) stating through 2016, Medicare will save over $200 billion due to the Affordable Care Act. Medi

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) wants the GOP House Majority to use Earth Day as a reason to change their current environmental policy. In the 112th Congress, House Republicans have launched a relentless attack on our environment that seeks to rollback

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) applauds everyone who is taking part in today's National Day of Silence, coordinated nationally by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN). The Day of Silence is a day in which students from around th

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement concerning the recent behavior by Secret Service agents during the Summit of the Americas in Colombia. Rep. Engel is a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) returned from the Summit of the Americas in Colombia encouraged by President Obama's diplomatic outreach to other leaders of Latin America and the Caribbean. Rep. Engel was invited by President Obama to be part of hi

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) urged the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to approve grants to New York State for more funding for the Tappan Zee Bridge replacement project. The need of a replacement bridge highlights the national need for incr

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY17) marked the one-year anniversary of the GOP's failed attack on women's health by calling on his Republican colleagues to focus on a bipartisan effort to create jobs, balance the budget and move the country forward r

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) is part of the Presidential delegation attending the Summit of the Americas in Colombia this weekend. At the request of the White House, Rep. Engel, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, is traveling wi

Today, Representatives Eliot Engel (D-NY) and Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) reiterated the need for Israeli authorities to protect the sacred cemetery at Har HaZeitim, the Mount of Olives, which abuts Jerusalem's Old City. The Members sent a letter today to

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) commended the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for acting on his proposed legislation. The FCC proposal will require wireless phone companies to cut off service to stolen phones, rendering them worthless to thieve

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) said the March jobs report continued the trend of positive job growth, and highlighted the need for a bipartisan jobs bill to propel the recovery to the next level. The unemployment rate dropped to 8.2 percent, it's l

Congressman Eliot Engel announced Wednesday that the Department of Housing and Urban Development is awarding more than $67 million to communities across New York State, including those in the Bronx, Westchester and Rockland Counties.

Congressman Eliot Engel's (D-NY-17) legislation, the Calling Card Consumer Protection Act, would protect buyers of telephone calling cards, who often get only 60 percent of the minutes advertised on the calling cards they purchase. The bill, introduc

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) chastised House Republican Leadership for another missed opportunity to work in a bipartisan manner to help the American people. He voted against the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012, because the House and Se

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) rejected the House Republican Leadership budget on Thursday, for the pain it inflicts on low- and middle-income families. The GOP budget proposed cuts for scores of programs affecting working families and low-income comm

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) spoke before the Organization of American States (OAS) at a meeting focusing on the upcoming Summit of the Americas. He supported regional efforts to help Haiti and called for a renewed commitment to the Inter-American D

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) announced that some 200 local homeless veterans will be helped to find permanent housing, along with thousands of others nationwide, as part of a U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veteran

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) issued the following statement on the second anniversary of the landmark Affordable Care Act.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) met with New Yorkers attending the National Association of Community Health Centers convention in Washington DC. Rep. Engel, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Health, discus

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) introduced legislation to protect cell phone users whose cell phones have been stolen. The Cell Phone Theft Protection Act amends the Communications Act to require wireless commercial services to cut off service to the s

Congressman Eliot Engel demanded Entergy immediately start raising the missing $500 million necessary to safely close down the reactors at Indian Point. Nuclear power plants are required to have enough funds set aside to safely close plants. A recent New

Rockland County's Office of Community Development was awarded a $556,106 Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide assistance to homeless persons, including transitional housing, perman

Mount Vernon was awarded a $178,338 Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide assistance to homeless persons, including transitional housing, permanent housing plus supportive services Cong

Rep. Eliot L. Engel (D-NY-17), author of the Syria Accountability Act of 2003, today called upon the Obama Administration to provide military support for the rebels fighting the Assad regime.

Representatives of the Social Security Administration will be at Congressman Eliot Engel's Bronx office on Wednesday, March 28th to assist people with questions or problems concerning this program.

Congressman Eliot Engel (D-NY-17) said the February jobs report showing a substantial increase of 227,000 jobs created in February, the third consecutive month of 200,000-plus job growth, was an outstanding sign of the continuing recovery. The private se