Serving New York’s 26th Congressional district, which includes portions of Erie & Niagara Counties
Attention WNY Homeowners:
Are you in the market for new windows or doors?
The provides tax credits for energy-efficient products which could save you hundreds of dollars.
Learn more:
Find eligible products and home improvements.
January is . Every donation can save up to 3️⃣ lives in WNY. Whether you give blood, platelets, or red cells, you can make a difference. Roll up your sleeve to help those in need.
Sign up at: https://www.connectlife.org/
Or www.roswellpark.org/donate-blood-roswell-park
Today we celebrate Willie O'Ree, the first Black player to lace up & play in the on Jan 18, 1958 - 65 yrs ago.
His charity which continues to break barriers for youth included a 2012 Buffalo visit.
Last year we recognized the trailblazer with the Congressional Gold Medal.
Accessing support during a mental health crisis is now easier than ever.
Call or text 988 to get connected to resources in your area. If you're a veteran, dial & press 1.
Confidential help is available 24/7, 365 days a year.
May Dr. King's commitment to justice & service and drive to dream be an inspiration to all.
Congress on Your Corner is back throughout January & February!
Staff will be available at locations across the community to answer your questions and provide assistance with federal agencies like the VA, Social Security, the IRS, the US Dept. of Ed & more.
**Events on January 28 & February 23 are Free Tax assistance kick-off events. Appointments are required if you would like assistance with your taxes. To make an appointment call 211 or 1-888-696-9211.
Dates & Times ⬇️
It has been a challenging time for Western New York.
A racist mass shooting. A deadly blizzard. Damar Hamlin's terrifying & tragic injury.
But time & time again we lift each other up & turn community into family. I am grateful to represent this good & generous community, one whose best days are immediately ahead.
As always, Go Bills!
🚨 ATTN: Local Fire Departments 🚨
Applications for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program are NOW OPEN.
Competitive grants provide local departments with funding to modernize equipment & train members. FEMA offers online workshop throughout the submission period to answer questions & assist with successful applications.
Deadline: February 10, 2023, at 5pm EST
Learn more: https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-higgins-announces-grant-opportunity-for-local-fire-0
The US and Canada are deeply connected by our economies, shared values, and our border. This week President Joe Biden & Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met in Mexico City, continuing the dialogue between our neighboring nations.
We welcome the ongoing discussions, but better coordination is needed to reflect the strong bonds our cross-border communities share.
https://youtu.be/GAKszQGWMk4
https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-higgins-urges-continued-work-advancing-binational
DYK? NY-26 has changed & includes new areas in Niagara County. See map of the new district below.
As always, reach out to our offices if you need assistance with a federal issue. We look forward to continuing to serve the people, businesses & communities of WNY.
This week President Joe Biden & Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will meet in Mexico City.
We urge leaders to work together to rebuild our binational relationship by reexamining existing policies to encourage the travel of people & goods across the Northern Border.
Full Statement: https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ahead-of-biden-trudeau-meeting-congressman-higgins-urges-the-leaders-to
Early this morning I was finally sworn in to represent in the 118th Congress.
It is an honor & a privilege to represent the hardworking, neighborly, & resilient people of WNY.
Now, let's get back to work & continue building on the progress we've made .
Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) has been sworn in to serve as a member of the House of Representatives in the 118th Congress. “There is no greater privilege than to represent this great community and the people of Western New York in the United States Congress,” said Higgins.
Two years ago today, a deadly assault was waged on the U.S. Capitol. The insurrection was a direct attack on our democracy, our constitution, & the peaceful transfer of power.
Today we held a moment of reflection in honor of the brave officers lost & injured defending our democracy.
We must never forget the events that happened on & led up to , and those who are directly responsible.
Buffalo is my home. Representing WNY gives me the great opportunity to help my neighbors and deliver for my community. Below are some highlights of our work in 2022.
Our thoughts & prayers continue to be with Damar Hamlin, his family, & the Buffalo Bills.
Full statement ⬇️
As the 118th Congress begins today, we reflect on the progress we've made throughout the last year.
It's time to get back to work of Western New York, but first check out our 2022 recap ⬇️
Thanks to the we start 2023 with a new cap on insulin costs for seniors on Medicare.
Happy New Year, Western New York!
Honored to represent a strong & resilient community of good neighbors. Looking forward to working together toward a prosperous 2023.
Pantry Locator - FeedMore WNY
Please note that when receiving assistance at a FeedMore WNY affiliated pantry partner, you will be required to attest to meeting USDA eligibility. In order to be eligible to receive household TEFAP products, the total household income for all household members must be at or below 200% of federal po...
211 WNY has put together a comprehensive list of storm-related services & updates for members of our community in need. Check out updated closings, ways to access community services, & more. ⬇️
211 WNY is your free and confidential link to health and human services. Every day, across Western New York, people just like you are looking for help. 211 WNY is here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Developmental Disabilities. Domestic Abuse. Health and Wellness. Housing. Legal Services. Mental Heal...
Merry Christmas, Western New York!
Hoping everyone is safe & warm as we continue to get through this storm.
The blizzard is having a devastating impact on WNY. We have reached out to agencies in support of state & local requests for additional federal emergency assistance.
We are grateful to the many WNYers sacrificing time with their families & risking their own safety to serve others.
✅ 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Bill
This funding package makes historic investments in community projects, protecting healthcare, supporting veterans, creating good-paying jobs, & improving everyday lives of working families.
It includes critical legislation to protect our democracy, improve our economy, & support American families.
Learn more about what this means for WNY & beyond.
https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/higgins-announces-house-approval-of-2023-federal-budget
✅ Presidential Tax Filings & Audit Transparency Act
In 1977 the IRS adopted a mandatory presidential audit policy. This week Ways and Means Committee found that these audits were not performed under the Trump Administration.
This bill ensures that tax laws are applied equally to all taxpayers, especially a president. It provides the transparency that our democracy demands to restore trust in our institutions & our system of checks and balances
Read more:
Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced the approval of the Presidential Tax Filings and Audit Transparency Act (H.R.9640). Introduced by Representative Richard Neal (D-MA), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, following the committee’s receipt and review of former President Donald ...
Niagara Falls National Heritage Area & Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor celebrate our history, while driving tourism and supporting community development.
Passed today, the National Heritage Area Act reauthorizes our nation's 55 heritage areas for the next 15 years making a long-term federal commitment to preserving our local and national history for generations to come.
Read more:
Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced the House of Representatives has approved the National Heritage Area Act (S.1942). The bill reauthorizes all Niagara Heritage Areas, including those in Niagara Falls and along the Erie Canal, for the next 15 years, ensuring a long-term federal commitment t...
Democracy is hard & citizenship is a team sport.
Vladimir Putin has a very different worldview, an inherent threat to the free world.
We must stand for sovereignty & we must .
👂 Hear more from my interview on NPR.
300 days ago Putin began an unprovoked, illegal war against the Ukrainian people & their sovereignty.
But Ukraine has shown courage, bravery, & resolve to protect their democracy.
Tonight President Zelenskyy spoke before Congress & we reaffirmed our commitment to standing with the people of Ukraine.
Full statement: https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/statement-by-congressman-higgins-on-visit-by-ukraine-president-zelenskyy
Residents will be happy to know, after a $19M rehabilitation project, the Ohio Street bridge has been restored and reopened. The bridge serves as a major connection between Canalside and the Outer Harbor. This federally funded project follows an $11M investment in the transformation of Ohio Street, laying the foundation to a thriving Buffalo River corridor. Happy to work with Mayor Byron W. Brown and State Transportation Chair Senator Timothy Kennedy to deliver continued investments in Buffalo's waterfront and neighborhoods.
The $19 million major overhaul of the bridge included structural steel replacement painting, new road deck and sidewalks and traffic gates.
As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, I am responsible for oversight of the tax code.
And the public must have full confidence that no one is above the law, not even a president.
That's why I voted to publicly release former President Trump's tax returns.
Full statement: https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-higgins-votes-with-ways-and-means-committee-to-make-former
🚨Announced today: We secured $24.67 million in Community Project Funding for in 2023 Federal Budget!
From infrastructure & healthcare to public safety & community development, 15 projects will receive funding as an important part of Western New York's continued transformation. Learn more about this critical federal funding we are proudly delivering for the community.⬇️
https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/over-2467-million-requested-by-congressman-higgins-for-wny-projects
The racist mass shooting on May 14 changed our community forever & we must hold all responsible parties accountable.
We applaud the City of Buffalo & Mayor Byron W. Brown for taking legal action against the firearm industry.
Full statement: https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-brian-higgins-issues-statement-in-support-of-buffalo-lawsuit
Everyone deserves access to affordable, modern housing & Mount Aaron Village will provide this & more for East Buffalo.
Proud to join Mt Aaron Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Dwayne Jones, Mayor Byron W. Brown, Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes, NYS Assemblywoman, Darius G Pridgen & Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center to celebrate the grand opening of this new affordable complex. Featuring 59 apartments for seniors, families, & individuals, with on-site services provided by BestSelf Behavioral Health, this new housing development will provide residents to with the stability & support to live independently.
Happy , Western New York!
Wishing all who observe joy & peace as you celebrate the Festival of Lights.
The Buffalo shooting underscored the need to improve literacy & community equity in Western New York & books are a powerful tool.
Proud the join Project Flight, St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute, Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera, & County Legislator Howard Johnson to announce the new Literacy Library Collection for Equity, Justice & Peace across the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library - Central Library system this morning. This project will promote a culture of understanding, peace, and kindness for people of all ages, impacting our community for years to come.
VA healthcare workers dedicate their lives to caring for our vets.
Yet our laws don't grant them an adequate voice in the workplace.
Today the House passed the VA Employee Fairness Act, giving National Nurses United & others at the Buffalo VA & across the US full bargaining rights.
As the weather gets colder and the holidays get closer, COVID cases are on the rise.
Starting today, every household can once again order 4 free COVID tests shipped right to your door.
Order yours today:
Every U.S. household is eligible to order 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests.
Today we celebrate progress in equity & inclusion as President Joe Biden signs the into law.
This long-overdue bill ensures equal rights & protections for all married couples regardless of skin color, where they live, or whom they love.
Proud to see love win, again.
This morning we visited General Motors' Lockport facility to learn more about the production site & their plans to ramp up EV production here in WNY.
Thanks to historic legislation like the , we are investing in sustainable jobs & and a clean energy future right in our community.
🚨 Reminder 🚨
December 15 is the last day to beginning on January 1, 2023 during open enrollment!
Find affordable coverage today: healthcare.gov
Honored to welcome U.S. Economic Development Administration Deputy Assistant Secretary Dennis Alvord to Buffalo to highlight how the community will use a $25M grant from the Regional Challenge to support the WNY Advanced Manufacturing Initiative.
We joined local workforce development leaders in a round table discussing how new investments will drive economic recovery & competitiveness, and got a first-hand look at innovative job-training taking place at Buffalo Manufacturing Works.
As our federal and local partnerships strengthen, the WNY economy will continue to see growth.
726 Exchange Street, Suite 601
Buffalo, NY
14210
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In May the WNY community was devastated by a racist mass shooting. Armed with an assault weapon, the shooter committed this violent act in 123 seconds, killing 10 & injuring others. When we think about Buffalo, Uvalde, & so many other mass shootings, the common denominator is an assault weapon in the hands of a shooter under 21. I talked about this on Meet the Press last night during a segment on gun violence in America. ⬇️
On the anniversary of #September11 it is always the emotions about people that are top of mind: profound shock and sadness for the innocent victims, pride and respect for the heroes including the brave first responders, and the unity of Americans. #wewillneverforget #PatriotDay
September is Passport Awareness Month. Are you planning a trip? Don't wait, check your expiration date. Passports are valid 10 years for adults & 5 years for kids under 16. Start your renewal today: https://bit.ly/3Awtop2 #RenewMyPassport
Did you know? Our office has helped Western New York veterans receive 1,773 military medals earned while serving our country. If you or someone you know needs assistance with receiving military honors or accessing VA benefits, our office is here to help. Give has a call at 716-852-3501.
This morning we joined the community to celebrate India’s 75th Independence Day. Honored to March with the Council of Heritage & Arts of India during the India Day parade. As WNY’s Indian community continues to grow, we are grateful to share culture & tradition.
APPROVED: #InflationReductionAct This historic bill will reduce carbon emissions by about 40% by 2030, create 9 million good-paying jobs, lower energy and prescription drug costs, and provide relief to American families and seniors. This is not just a good climate bill, it's a major investment in a clean and resilient future for our country and the Western New York Community. Proud to send this legislation to President Joe Biden's desk. https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/higgins-announces-approval-of-legislation-lowering-prescription-costs
Western New York traditionally has a stable housing market, but COVID-19 made it more challenging to afford a home, especially for communities of color. The Neighborhood Homes Investment Act would create a tax credit to cover the gap between the cost of construction or renovation & the price of a home. It encourages home ownership & builds stronger neighborhoods. Learn more about how this bill would benefit the future of our community & its older housing stock ⤵️ House Budget Committee Buffalo Erie Niagara Land Improvement Corporation LISC WNY
During today’s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing titled “Examining the ‘Metastasizing’ Domestic Terrorism Threat After the Buffalo Attack,” Garnell Whitfield, Jr., whose mother Ruth was murdered during the racist Buffalo shooting, provided powerful testimony. Whitfield challenged Senators, “I ask every one of you to imagine the faces of your mothers as you look at mine and ask yourself...Is there nothing that you personally are willing to do to stop the cancer of white supremacy & the domestic terrorism it inspires?” Watch his testimony below.
Tonight on the floor of the House of Representatives, surrounded by my colleagues from New York and across the country, we remembered the victims of the horrific mass shooting in Buffalo. We need action and unity in the fight against racism and hate.
Military medals honor the service & sacrifice of our servicemembers. We have worked hard to secure 1,657 medals for local veterans to ensure that they receive all of the military honors they earned. If you or your family needs assistance with receiving service medals, securing VA benefits, or any other veteran-related issues, please reach out to our office at 716-852-3501.
Insulin shouldn't cost families their life savings. Yesterday the House passed a bill that caps the price of insulin at $35 per month. This makes a world of difference for people like Joshua Davis, President Biden's SOTU guest who has Type I diabetes 👏 Read more: https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-higgins-announces-approval-of-the-affordable-insulin-now-act
Willie O’Ree was a true changemaker in the sport of hockey. As the first Black player in the NHL he endured racism & bigotry. Despite the challenges he faced, he broke down barriers for many young athletes of color & became a tireless advocate for diversity & inclusion in the game. Today the House honored Willie O’Ree’s legacy & advocacy by awarding him the Congressional Gold Medal. https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/higgins-announces-passage-of-legislation-honoring-hockey-legend-willie-o
Once a dumping ground for contaminated Buffalo River sludge, the Times Beach Nature Preserve is now a vibrant wildlife habitat & a waterfront destination. Thanks to a $14 billion federal investment in our ports & waterways, as a result of the Bipartisan #Infrastructure Law, this year Times Beach will receive $10 million to improve its parkland & natural habitats. Supported through work by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District, the funding will help restore public access lost due to storm damage. https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/higgins-announces-10-million-for-times-beach-on-buffalo-s-outer-harbor
Today we joined Senator Timothy Kennedy, County Executive Mark Poloncarz, Mayor Byron W. Brown, South District Councilman Christopher P. Scanlon, the Construction Exchange of Buffalo & WNY, Inc. & the FAIR Committee to highlight the positive impact infrastructure investments will have on Western New York. Thanks to increased funding as a result of the Bipartisan #Infrastructure Law, we have the opportunity to transform Tifft and Louisiana Streets, including road & bridge upgrades, improvements to pedestrian walkways & lighting, and designated bike lanes to better connect Buffalo neighborhoods with the Buffalo River & the Outer Harbor.
Western New York has a long history as leaders in the labor movement. SBWorkersUnited is continuing this tradition, successfully unionizing at locations in Buffalo & Cheektowaga and serving as an inspiration for Starbucks Partners across the country. I am proud to stand with WNY Starbucks employees as they continue fighting for fair working conditions.
Temperatures are frigid in Western New York this week, making it challenging to keep the many older homes in our community warm. Resources for home weatherization included in the Bipartisan #Infrastructure Law, as well as HEAP funding in the #AmericanRescuePlan provide critical assistance, but more needs to be done. Congress must pass the renewable energy provisions in #BuildBackBetter to better prepare Western New York for future climate challenges.
The #AffordableCareAct decreases healthcare costs, expands access to quality care, & protects those with preexisting conditions. A record 31 million Americans now have healthcare coverage because of this historic legislation. I was happy to sit down with Peter Morley & Health Care Awareness Month to talk about what #ACA coverage delivers for you. The #ACA open enrollment period ends December 15. #SignUpForHealth TODAY to get covered on January 1, 2022. Visit: https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/?fbclid=IwAR2m-ORf9Gi764Bdd0mS6FtniODTatqQuP4GpsVlpsoSfzrWMrrjAKcQ1Vc
The #bipartisaninfrastructurelaw and the #buildbackbetteract represent a long-overdue investment in American workers and communities to compete for the 21st century. While we used to compete with China in the production of toys, t-shirts, and tennis shoes, now we compete on artificial intelligence, green energy, and other advanced manufacturing fields. Yesterday, in the Ways and Means Committee I highlighted the need to continue to strengthen laws to promote the growth of United Steelworkers jobs at plants like Sumitomo in Tonawanda, which has been manufacturing tires since the 1920s, and protect them from the illegal dumping of goods made in China and other countries that exploit international laws, which I have repeatedly done during my time in Congress. This is essential work for the future of our community. I was also pleased to see Lockport native Kim Thompson Glas testify before the Committee on how to promote Made in America industries in domestic and international markets National Council of Textile Organizations. Kim was a long-time staffer of Congressman John LaFalce, one of my predecessors, and is part of a tradition of Western New York natives going to Washington and advocating on behalf of labor and all American workers in the halls of government.
Nearly 600,000 New Yorkers are caregivers to family members living with dementia. This is difficult work, taking both an emotional and physical toll on families, that often goes unrecognized. During National Family Caregivers Month, we are working to provide better support for caregivers including pushing for approval of the Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer's Act and making a greater investment in the home care workforce and home care services. https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/during-national-family-caregivers-month-higgins-emphasizes-importance-of
We are LIVE at the @iibuff with @BestSelBehavioralHeallth & @eriecountysocialservices announcing a program assisting minor victims of labor trafficking in Western New York.
Access to quality, high-speed broadband is essential for connecting people to school, work, customers, and healthcare. Despite this, over 25% of households surveyed in Buffalo reported having no internet access and those with access reported abysmal average connection speeds that represent an unacceptable quality of service. This week, we urged federal and local governments to quickly utilize the funding we passed in the #AmericanRescuePlan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Law to close major broadband gaps in underserved communities across American and mitigate the digital divide in Western New York. https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/higgins-urges-federal-local-government-action-to-close-broadband-gaps
Yesterday, we honored Vietnam Veteran Captain Jack Walter during a ceremony at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park, presenting him with a Vietnam Veteran Commemorative Lapel. Jack received a Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, and five Air Medals for his heroic service during the Vietnam War. He brought his leadership back home to Western New York, dedicating his time to both his family and community, serving as a softball and basketball coach, as well as leader at his church. Captain Jack Walter's dedication to his country, community, and family is an example of selflessness and sacrifice that makes Western New York a better place. Thank you for your service.
Restaurants support jobs, fuel our local economies, and serve as a gathering place for our families and friends, helping to build stronger communities. That is why, through our passage of the #AmericanRescuePlan, we supported $28.6 billion to help restaurants hit hard by the pandemic. Today with more than 177,000 eligible applicants still needing relief, we joined Western New York restaurants in voicing strong support for the swift replenishment of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. https://higgins.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-higgins-joins-western-new-york-restaurants-urging-support
With over 235,700 new cases in 2021 alone, and a five-year survival rate of less than 22%, lung cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer deaths in America. While screening is critical for improving patients' chances of survival, few Americans undergo routine checks. To save lives, it is vital that we encourage all who are eligible to be screened. Legislation like the Lung Cancer Screening Registry and Quality Improvement Act improve screening access and support federal investments. This year, we successfully pushed to include $1.5 million in House appropriations bills for Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center toward improving and expanding the screening process. Today, for #LungCancerAwarenessMonth we took to the House Floor to emphasize the important role lung cancer screening plays in early detection, serving as an effective warning sign that gives patients the best possible hope of beating this terrible disease. For additional information on lung cancer prevention and screening, visit: https://www.cancer.gov/types/lung #LCAM21
October Recap 🔽 Throughout October we worked hard to bring home funding and advocate for the Western New York community. Next week in Washington, we will continue working to pass the #BuildBackBetterAct and the bipartisan infrastructure bill so we can deliver more for Western New Yorkers. #NCA50 #WeSettheModel #HealNY #DomesticViolenceAwarenessmonth #expandsocialsecurity #letusreunite
By 2035, the number of Americans age 65+ is projected to increase to 76 million. A recent report predicts that by 2034 beneficiaries could begin losing $300 each month in benefits if action is not taken soon. Today we joined Rep. John Larson to urge Congress to pass the Social Security 2100 Act, which would prevent cuts to benefits and ensure that Social Security is protected long into the future. #Secure2100
By 2035, the number of Americans age 65+ is projected to increase to 76 million. A recent report predicts that by 2034 beneficiaries could begin losing $300 each month in benefits if action is not taken soon. Today we joined Rep. John Larson to urge Congress to pass the Social Security 2100 Act, which would prevent cuts to benefits and ensure that Social Security is protected long into the future. #Secure2100
Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office
Court Street, New CastleTown Administrator - Town of Rutland, MA
246 Main Street, Main StreetVillage of Westmont: Police Department
North Cass Avenue, WestmontAmy Croll - Urbandale City Council
86th Street, UrbandaleĐặc Sứ VNCH Tại Liên Hiệp Quốc - RVN Mission
Barrington Court, San Jose
Niagara District Council Member David A. Rive
Niagara Square
Erie County Clerk Mickey Kearns
Franklin Street