Lawler, Michael RSS Articles

Lawler Calls on Hochul to Explain Millions in Taxpayer Subsidies to Company Accused of Anti-Worker Practices

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – 6/10/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul demanding answers about New York State’s decision to provide millions of dollars in subsidies to Rippling, a technology company facing allegations that employees were penalized and retaliated against for using paid family leave and exercising workplace rights.

New York reportedly awarded approximately $7 million in tax subsidies to Rippling despite allegations regarding the company's treatment of employees and questions surrounding the record of its leadership. The letter asks whether the Governor adequately considers a company's treatment of workers when determining eligibility for taxpayer-funded incentives and whether a company reportedly valued at approximately $16 billion should receive such economic development assistance at all.

“Recent reporting uncovered concerns with the company, including allegations that employees were penalized for using paid family leave given your role in enacting the first-in-the-nation paid prenatal leave law. Rippling has no place in one of the most union-friendly states in the U.S.,” wrote the pro-worker lawmaker.

New York taxpayers should not be subsidizing companies accused of mistreating workers, particularly in a state that has long prided itself on standing with working men and women.

Lawler has consistently supported legislation to strengthen protections for workers and organized labor, recently voting for the Faster Labor Contracts Act to help newly unionized workers secure their first contracts more quickly and provided the decisive 218th signature to force a vote on legislation restoring collective bargaining rights for federal employees, and has championed legislation to improve workplace safety and protections for workers across multiple industries.

The full letter can be found HERE.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Lawler Leads Letter Supporting the FCC Crackdown on Illegal Robocalls

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – 6/9/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) led a bipartisan letter with 18 colleagues to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) expressing strong support for the agency’s proposed rulemaking to combat illegal robocalls through strengthened policies and oversight.

The letter backs the FCC’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, Combatting Illegal Robocalls Through RCC Numbering Policies, which seeks to modernize the nation’s communications infrastructure and close loopholes that fraudsters exploit to carry out scams.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, Americans reported approximately $15.9 billion in fraud losses in 2025, the highest amount ever recorded. Victims who were contacted by phone suffered some of the largest financial losses, showing the need for stronger safeguards to prevent bad actors from exploiting Americans.

“We commend the Commission for advancing this rulemaking and urge the FCC to incorporate enhanced interagency coordination with the U.S. Department of the Treasury and other financial regulators into the final framework. Robocall-driven scams almost always culminate in financial transactions. Treasury and financial regulators maintain visibility in these money-movement channels and possess analytic tools capable of identifying fraud patterns that originate with spoofed or fraudulently obtained numbers,” wrote the lawmakers.

Advances in artificial intelligence and voice-cloning technology have made fraudulent schemes increasingly sophisticated, while practices such as “number cycling” allow criminals to rapidly switch phone numbers and evade detection. The letter urges the FCC to adopt clear and enforceable standards to address these tactics and better protect consumers.

Additional signers of the letter included Reps. Tim Moore, Dan Meuser, María E. Salazar, Troy E. Nehls, Carol D. Miller, Marlin A. Stutzman, Young Kim, Andy Barr, John Rose, Zach Nunn, Mike Haridopolos, Bryan Steil, Jefferson Shreve, Ann Wagner, Barry Loudermilk, Troy Downing, Monica De La Cruz, and Morgan Griffith.

The full letter can be found HERE.

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Lawler Announces Committee Passage of Foreign Service Modernization Act

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – 6/9/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) released the following statement after his Foreign Service Modernization Act passed through the House Foreign Affairs Committee with a vote of 38-2. This bill is a comprehensive effort to improve the operations and effectiveness of America’s diplomatic corps as they work to advance U.S. interests abroad.

“America's diplomats serve on the front lines of our foreign policy in some of the most challenging environments around the world. The Foreign Service Act has not undergone a comprehensive review in more than four decades, despite dramatic changes in the geopolitical landscape and the challenges facing our nation. This legislation ensures our diplomats are mission-focused and equipped with the tools to advance American interests and respond to emerging threats,” said Congressman Lawler.

“America's diplomatic workforce must be ready to meet the moment. This legislation represents a significant step toward building a stronger and more effective Foreign Service for the challenges of the 21st century,” concluded Congressman Lawler.

The legislation marks the first comprehensive review and modernization of the Foreign Service Act since it was enacted in 1980.

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Lawler Votes to Advance Faster Labor Contracts Act

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – 6/9/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) voted in favor of the Faster Labor Contracts Act. The legislation specifically amends the National Labor Relations Act to establish clear timelines for collective bargaining between employers and newly organized workers, helping prevent lengthy delays that can leave employees waiting years for the contracts they voted to secure.

The bill passed with 230-193.

“Workers who choose to organize deserve a fair shot at reaching their first contract. Employers can currently drag on negotiations for years, leaving workers in limbo. This bipartisan legislation helps ensure the collective bargaining process moves forward in good faith and that workers have a meaningful opportunity to secure the benefits and protections they voted for,” said Congressman Lawler.

“As the representative of thousands of union members and working families across the Hudson Valley, I have always believed that workers deserve a seat at the table and a voice in their workplace. The Faster Labor Contracts Act strengthens that principle while promoting accountability and fairness throughout the bargaining process,” concluded Congressman Lawler.

Lawler was one of a bipartisan group of lawmakers who supported efforts to bring the legislation before the House for consideration, signing a discharge petition to force a House vote.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Lawler Introduces Legislation to Improve VA Online Access, Prevent Fraud Against Veterans

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – 6/4/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Veterans Electronic Trust and Records Act (VETRA Act), legislation directing the Department of Veterans Affairs to establish a pilot program to modernize its digital identity proofing and authentication systems. Chairman Mike Bost and the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs have expressed support for the legislation.

The legislation would require the VA to replace outdated identity verification methods with high-assurance digital identity solutions designed to reduce fraud and improper payments while improving secure access to VA benefits and services. It also requires the Department to implement risk-tiered authentication measures, evaluate cost savings and operational efficiencies, and report its findings to Congress.

“As more VA services move online, we must modernize outdated identity verification systems, strengthen protections against fraud and improper payments, and ensure veterans can safely and efficiently access the care and benefits they depend on. Veterans deserve a secure and reliable system for accessing the benefits they earned through their service, and I will continue advocating for legislation that improves their experience and upholds our commitment to those who have sacrificed for our country,” said Congressman Lawler.

“Todays and tomorrow’s veterans deserve a VA that is secure and stress-free. The Veterans Electronic Trust and Records Authorization Act, led by Rep. Mike Lawler, would make it easier for veterans who are accessing their benefits and healthcare through VA.gov by modernizing VA’s digital identity and authentication systems to meet today’s standards. I want to thank my friend, Rep. Mike Lawler, for his leadership on this vitally important, forward-thinking bill to ensure veterans nationwide – and in New York’s 17th district – have access to the most modern and efficient tools to get the healthcare benefits they have earned,” said Chairman Mike Bost.

The full bill text can be found HERE.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Lawler Applauds Presidential Medal of Freedom for Welles Crowther, Builds Momentum for Gold Medal Bill to Honor 9/11 Heroism

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – 6/2/26… This week, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) released the following statement after President Donald Trump announced at a local event in Suffern on Friday, May 22nd, that 9/11 hero Welles Remy Crowther, also known as the ‘Man in the Red Bandana,’ will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Crowther was raised in Upper Nyack, New York, where he served as a volunteer firefighter. He played Division I lacrosse at Boston College and, after graduating with the class of 1999, worked as an equities trader in the South Tower of the World Trade Center.

On September 11th, 2001, after Flight 175 struck the South Tower, Welles found survivors on the 78th floor Sky Lobby and carried an injured woman down 17 flights of stairs. He used his trademark red bandanna to help protect others from smoke. After repeatedly returning to rescue more individuals and assisting firefighters with their efforts, he died when the South Tower collapsed.

Survivors later identified him through accounts of a “man in a red bandanna.” His mother, Alison Crowther, helped piece together the story of his final acts of courage. The red bandanna has since become a national symbol of selflessness and service.

“Welles’ story has become part of our nation’s conscience, reminding us that in our darkest moments, extraordinary courage can emerge. I’m grateful to President Trump for ensuring his heroism receives this highest civilian recognition. Congress now has an opportunity to build on that legacy and award Welles the Congressional Gold Medal, one of our nation’s highest expressions of gratitude. I’m proud that support for this effort continues to grow across party lines and among organizations dedicated to preserving our nation’s history and honoring the heroes of September 11th,” said Congressman Mike Lawler.

“We are deeply grateful to President Trump for honoring Welles Remy Crowther with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. For the Crowther family, friends, teammates and for all those who have carried Welles’ story forward over the past 25 years, this recognition is profoundly meaningful. Welles never sought recognition—he simply lived with courage, humility, and a commitment to serving others. We hope this honor not only preserves his legacy, but inspires future generations to lead with compassion, character, and selflessness. We are equally grateful to Congressman Lawler for his leadership in continuing the effort to award Welles the Congressional Gold Medal and ensure his story remains part of our nation’s history,” said Patrick McCavanagh, Vice President, Welles Remy Crowther Charitable Trust; former lacrosse teammate of Welles Crowther, Boston College ’99.

H.R. 5519 awards a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal to Welles Remy Crowther, recognizing his extraordinary bravery, leadership, and sacrifice on September 11, 2001. The bill ensures Congress formally recognizes his heroism with one of the nation’s highest civilian Honors.

The legislation has been endorsed by the Welles Remy Crowther Trust, Problem Solvers Caucus, America250, and 9/11 Day.

“As we approach the 25th anniversary of September 11, we remember the courage and sacrifice of those who stepped forward when our country needed them most. Welles Crowther’s story reminds us of the spirit of service that represents America at its best,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “As Americans, we will never forget.”

The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors bestowed by Congress. Honoring Welles in this way will recognize his heroism during one of the most significant moments in American history and will reinforce the values of service, sacrifice, and leadership for future generations.

“As we are approaching the 25th anniversary of September 11th, 2001, a dark day that will live in infamy, we are posthumously awarding Welles the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the highest award, outside of the Congressional Medal of Honor. I want to congratulate his great mother on doing a phenomenal job in raising that young man,” said President Trump.

The Problem Solvers Caucus is a group of Members of Congress — evenly split between Republicans and Democrats — committed to advancing common-sense solutions to key issues facing our nation.

“Welles Crowther, a fellow alumnus from Boston College, reminds us that doing the right thing, even when no one is looking, is one of the greatest qualities a person can have. “The Man in the Red Bandanna” is a story everyone should know. It’s a story of extraordinary courage and selflessness,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03).

“On September 11, 2001, amid one of the darkest days in our nation’s history, Welles Remy Crowther became a symbol of the very best of America. In the smoke and chaos of the South Tower, with his red bandana across his face, he chose service over fear and strangers over self. He returned again and again to lead others to safety, giving his life so others could live. His story reminds us that patriotism is not only found in words or symbols, but in acts of courage, sacrifice, and love of neighbor,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01).

Lawler, Gottheimer to Prohibit Firms Tied to the Chinese Communist Party From Registering With the SEC Under New Bill

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – 6/2/26… Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) introduced the PRC Broker-Dealers and Investment Advisers Moratorium Act, legislation aimed at protecting U.S. financial markets and investors from entities tied to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Currently, U.S. regulators can’t inspect or enforce rules inside China, which means if something goes wrong, Americans’ savings could be at risk.

This legislation puts a temporary stop on financial companies organized under PRC law, controlled by PRC entities, and dependent on PRC-based service providers from operating in U.S. markets until regulators can be sure they don’t pose risks to Americans. By doing so, people’s personal financial information is protected, foreign government‑linked firms are prevented from accessing U.S. investor data, and a loophole is closed in which China blocks American companies, but Chinese firms can freely operate here.

“The Chinese Communist Party has repeatedly demonstrated its willingness to exploit economic and financial systems to advance its geopolitical ambitions and undermine American interests. U.S. citizens deserve confidence that the institutions handling their investments are free from the influence and coercion of the Chinese Communist Party,” said Congressman Lawler.

“We can't let CCP-linked firms freely operate in our financial markets, access Americans’ personal data, and put people's hard-earned savings at risk while China shuts our own companies out,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “The Chinese Communist Party has made clear they will use every tool available to undermine American interests, and our financial markets cannot be the next target. Democrats and Republicans agree: we can't keep looking the other way. This bill closes that loophole, protects personal financial information, and makes sure American investors are protected.”

"ASA applauds Reps. Lawler and Gottheimer for their leadership in introducing the PRC Broker-Dealers and Investment Advisers Moratorium Act. This bill ensures Communist China cannot exploit American investors, our capital markets, or our national security interests,” said American Securities Association President and CEO Chris Iacovella

Specifically, the legislation would prohibit SEC registration for broker-dealers and investment advisers that:

Are organized under the laws of the People’s Republic of China;
Are controlled by PRC-based entities or nationals residing in China; or
Depend on PRC-linked affiliates or associated persons for critical infrastructure, software development, network services, maintenance, or customer support.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

Lawler, Mast Introduce the First Comprehensive Review of the Foreign Service Act in Over 45 Years

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – 6/2/26… Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast joined Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee Chairman Mike Lawler in introducing much-needed reforms to ensure America’s front-line diplomats have the tools to meet today’s national security and geopolitical challenges.

The Foreign Service Modernization Act marks the first comprehensive review of the Foreign Service Act, which codifies personnel matters for Foreign Service Officers, since it was signed into law in 1980.

“The State Department operates almost 280 posts around the world, staffed by over 14,000 Foreign Service Officers. At each post, these Americans are the face, voice, and representatives of our foreign policy. Amidst the current and rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, we must ensure the Foreign Service is mission-focused and equipped to meet that monumental task,” said Congressman Mike Lawler, Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee.

“For a very long time, Congress has done squat to oversee the State Department, diplomats, and their operations. This week the House Foreign Affairs Committee will redo the Foreign Service Act (FSA) for the first time in 46 years,” said House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast. “The FSA oversees every diplomat in America's embassies abroad. There are great diplomats given the opportunity to serve because of merit and terrible diplomats like the ones who implemented projects like transgender job fairs in Bangladesh or drag shows in Ecuador. We are going to make sure the State Department hires the most qualified, not the most woke.”

The legislation includes several personnel reforms focused on how the State Department recruits and trains diplomats, including measures that would:

Provide Ambassadors with increased authorities and oversight in carrying out US foreign policy at their posts overseas,
Create a pilot program for a Diplomatic Reserve Corps, modeling the reserve functions of the armed services, that would surge diplomats to the front lines in response to emergencies and crises abroad,
Enhance expeditionary diplomacy in austere posts to advance American interests outside of the confines of embassy walls,
Align State Department human resources technology and training to meet modern national security demands, and
Increase pathways for military veterans to join the Foreign Service

These reforms, which focus on defining the mission and culture of the Foreign Service, build upon Chairman Mast’s focus on restoring command and control over the State Department. Last year, the committee passed the first comprehensive bipartisan State Department reauthorization in more than two decades. Doing so set a powerful precedent for ensuring continued accountability for the American people.

The full committee will consider the Foreign Service Modernization Act of 2026 as part of a markup in June.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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Lawler Implores HHS to Expand World Trade Center Health Fund Cancer Screenings

Fri, 29 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – 5/29/26… Today, Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Dan Goldman (NY-10), and Sen. Gillibrand (NY) led 26 of their colleagues in a bipartisan bicameral letter to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expand cancer screening coverage under the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) for 9/11 responders and survivors.

The letter specifically advocates for coverage of PSA testing and skin cancer examinations, something residents and the first responder community in the Hudson Valley need easier access to.

For years, the WTCHP has provided critical medical care and monitoring for 9/11 responders and survivors exposed to toxic substances. The program has demonstrated a strong track record of success, including significantly higher cancer survival rates for enrolled members, while continuing to provide lifesaving treatment and support for thousands suffering from cancers and other 9/11-related health conditions.

Due to WTC exposure, 9/11 rescue and recovery workers have higher risks of developing life-threatening illnesses and many cancers, including both prostate cancer and skin cancer. While these cancers are covered by the WTCHP, screenings are not. This letter lays out the importance of PSA tests and skin cancer examinations in this at-risk population and urges HHS to begin the process to consider coverage.

This past February, Rep. Lawler and his colleagues passed legislation to secure lifetime funding for the WTCHP. By fixing the program’s funding formula for the long term, the law provides certainty for 9/11 responders and survivors while allowing the program to focus on improving care instead of future funding battles and bureaucratic delays. This includes cancer screenings.

“Citizens for the Extension of the James Zadroga Act want to thank Congressman Lawler for leading this strong bipartisan effort, along with Rep. Goldman and Senators Gillibrand and Schumer and other Members of Congress. Building on the recent success of Congress finally fully funding the World Trade Center Health Program, this effort to build on the programs history of improved outcomes with a call for even more improvements in cancer screening among 9/11 responders and survivors shows the delegations continuing commitment to those impacted by the toxins at Ground Zero as we approach the 25^th Anniversary of 9/11,” said Benjamin Chevat, Executive Director of Citizens for the Extension of the James Zadroga Act.

Additional signers of the letter included Sens. Blumenthal, Booker, Gillibrand, and Schumer and Reps. Bresnahan, Clarke, Espaillat, Fitzpatrick, Garbarino, Gillen, Dan Goldman, Gottheimer, Kean, Tim Kennedy, LaLota, Langworthy, Latimer, Lawler, Malliotakis, Mannion, Meng, Nadler, Ocasio-Cortez, Riley, Ryan, Stefanik, Suozzi, Tenney, Tonko, and Ritchie Torres.

The full letter can be found HERE.

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Lawler Leads 90+ Members of Congress to Urge Administration to Dismantle UNRWA Operations in the Middle East

Tue, 26 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – 5/26/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) led colleagues in sending a letter to the Trump Administration expressing serious concerns regarding the continued role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) across the Middle East and urging decisive action to dismantle the agency and transition its responsibilities to more credible and transparent partners.

UNRWA has long faced serious concerns over its ties to Hamas and its role in fostering radicalization among Palestinians for decades. In recent years, both Congress and President Trump have taken action to withhold U.S. funding from UNRWA. However, the organization continues to operate throughout the Middle East.

“Established in 1949 as a temporary relief agency, UNRWA operates across Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria, providing education, healthcare, and social services to millions of Palestinian refugees. However, rather than resolving the refugee crisis, UNRWA has perpetuated and expanded the problem through its unprecedented policy of conferring refugee status across generations – transforming what was once a finite humanitarian issue into a permanent and growing political challenge,” wrote the lawmakers.

Ultimately, UNRWA has not been a force for stability but has instead perpetuated the refugee crisis and reinforced the conditions that have allowed terrorism to persist. The letter highlights the ongoing concerns surrounding UNRWA’s regional operations and urges the President to continue efforts to dismantle the organization and transition its functions to more credible and trusted partners that are demonstrably free of ties to terrorism and committed to transparency, accountability, and peace.

The letter was cosigned by Reps. Alford, Amodei, Bacon, Barr, Bean, Biggs, Bilirakis, Brecheen, Cammack, Carey, Buddy Carter, Ciscomani, Cline, Clyde, Ellzey, Estes, Evans, Fallon, Fedorchak, Feenstra, Fine, Finstad, Fischbach, Fitzpatrick, Fleischmann, Foxx, Franklin, Garbarino, Gill, Craig Goldman, Gooden, Gottheimer, Griffith, Grothman, Hageman, Haridopolos, Harris, Harshbarger, Hern, Hill, Hudson, Issa, Jack, Jordan, Dave Joyce, Trent Kelly, Kim, LaLota, Langworthy, Letlow, Loudermilk, Luna, Mace, Mast, McCaul, McGuire, Messmer, Meuser, Carol Miller, Mary Miller, Max Miller, Miller-Meeks, Moolenaar, Barry Moore, Blake Moore, Tim Moore, Newhouse, Palmer, Patronis, Pfluger, Rogers, Rulli, Rutherford, Schmidt, Shreve, Adrian Smith, Chris Smith, Stauber, Stefanik, Steil, Steube, Strong, Tenney, Tiffany, Van Drew, Van Epps, Wagner, Walberg, Weber, Webster, Joe Wilson, and Zinke.

The full letter can be found HERE.

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