congressman chris collins

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) and Congressman Peter King (NY-2) reintroduced the "Renovate and Enhance Veterans’ Meeting Halls and Posts (REVAMP) Act."

This legislation will grant organizations access to federal funding for maintenance and improvements to veteran halls and posts.

American Legions and VFW Posts provide a place where veterans can come together to share their stories, get help with VA claims, and get involved in the community,” Congressman Collins said.

“I would like to thank Congressman Peter King for once again joining me in introducing this vital legislation that ensures our veterans have the resources they need to maintain and improve their facilities.”

“Veterans organizations like the VFW and American Legion continually provide and open their facilities to our communities,” Congressman King said. “It is only fair that we provide them with the opportunity to upgrade and repair these facilities to ensure continued use.”

The REVAMP Act allows organizations who are classified by the IRS as 501(c)(19) nonprofit organizations and comprised primarily of past or present members of the Armed Forces and their family members to be eligible for funding through Community Development Block Grants (CDBG).

This legislation uses existing CDBG funding to make veteran organizations eligible for that particular funding and does not add to the deficit.

Text of the legislation can be read here.

Press release from Congressman Chris Collins:

U.S. Representative Chris Collins (NY-27) reintroduced the Denying Chinese Investors Access to U.S. Small Business Aid bill.

The bill would prevent citizens of the People’s Republic of China, who own a business, from accessing assistance offered by the Small Business Administration (SBA). U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) reintroduced the Senate companion bill late last week.

“SBA programs should be focusing on helping small business owners in communities like Western New York, and not aid companies whose profits go to China,” Collins said. “I am proud to join Senator Rubio to advance this important legislation once again to encourage job growth and support small businesses here in the United States.”

“Amidst rapid technological advances, shifting global economic trends, and rising foreign adversaries, we must fight to protect America’s small businesses,” Rubio said. “Our bill will protect small businesses from Chinese interference and encourage American entrepreneurs to innovate, thrive, and grow so that we can keep our economy competitive on the global stage.”

Current law permits SBA to provide assistance toward Chinese-owned business who legally operate in the United States and qualify as a small business. These businesses are allowed to obtain a federally guaranteed loan, surety bonds, research and development grants, or disaster loans.

The Denying Chinese Investors Access to U.S. Small Business Aid would prohibit SBA benefits from being given to businesses headquartered in China. Under this bill, a China-based business that operates in the United States or businesses with at least 25 percent of their voting stock owned by Chinese investors will no longer be able to benefit.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) will host a ceremony to honor any Vietnam era veteran from 4 to 5 p.m. on Friday May 11^th at the Batavia City Centre.

Veterans who are interested in receiving a pin from The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration are encouraged to contact his office to confirm their eligibility and RSVP for the ceremony.

“This year we commemorated the first National Vietnam War Veterans Day to recognize the brave individuals who served in our nation’s military during the Vietnam War years,” Collins said. “I’m honored to have the opportunity to meet Vietnam veterans in my district and distribute these special pins.”

Any veteran who served in Vietnam is eligible for a pin and should contact Alex Gould in the Congressman’s office at (716) 634-2324 for more information on obtaining one.

May 11
4 o'clock
Batavia City Hall, Board Room
1 Batavia City Centre
Batavia, NY 14020

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins today released the following statement announcing this year’s Congressional Art Competition and encouraging local high school students in New York’s 27th district to participate.

“The Congressional Art Competition is a great opportunity for hardworking high school students to showcase their work to the hundreds of thousands of people who visit the Capitol each year,” said Congressman Collins. “There are incredibly talented artists throughout NY-27. I look forward to seeing this year’s submissions and the opportunity to welcome the winning artist to our nation’s capital.”

Now in its 35th year, the Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students who reside in New York’s 27th Congressional District. Last year there were more than 90 submissions. The winning artist will receive a round trip flight to Washington, D.C., to see their artwork in the U.S. Capitol, where it will be on display for one year.

Submissions are due to either of Congressman Collins’ two district offices no later than 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4. A reception and award ceremony will be held on Saturday, April 8th, at the Roz Steiner Art Gallery, located on the Genesee Community College campus in Batavia. Local high schools have been notified regarding contest rules and submission guidelines.

Interested students should see their art teacher for details or contact Chris Catt from Congressman Collins’ office at (585) 519-4002.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today announced the endorsement of the Federation of Republican Women represented in New York’s 27^th Congressional District. New York’s 27^th Congressional District includes 105 towns spread across Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston, Ontario and Monroe counties.

“I am proud to be a strong advocate for women throughout Western New York and the country," Collins said. "The Federation of Republican Women is a model organization working to ensure our conservative principles are represented in government. I am honored to have their support and will continue to fight for the best interest of all women."

The NY-27 Chapters of the Federation of Republican Women lauded Congressman Collins for his continued support of legislation that upholds Conservative values and his strong advocacy on the issues impacting women throughout the country.

“Western New York needs dedicated leaders who work to make our community a better place to live, work and raise a family,” said Kim Bowers, president of the Erie County Federation of Republican Women and Director of the 8^th Judicial District.

“The five counties that represent a large portion of the 8^th judicial district (Erie, Niagara, Wyoming, Genesee and Orleans counties) are proud to endorse Congressman Collins who is committed to putting forth smart policies that continue to help Western New York grow and prosper for years to come.”

"We need strong leaders that are willing to take a stand on issues that impact the Upstate New York region," said Trisha Turner, president of the Ontario County Women's Republican Club and Ontario County Chairwoman.  “Congressman Collins is a tremendous advocate for the Finger Lakes region, and represents our values well in Washington."

The National Federation of Republican Women works to empower women of all backgrounds in the political process and seeks to promote the principles, objectives, and policies of the Republican Party. Since 1983, the National Federation of Republican Women has been one of the largest grassroots political organizations in the country.

In Congress, Congressman Collins has voted in support of a number of legislative items impacting women throughout the United States, including:

- Voted to Support S.47, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) in the 113^th Congress (Signed into law on March 7, 2013)

Reauthorizes federal funds to be used in the investigation and prosecution of violent crimes against women.

- Cosponsored and voted to support H.R. 2722, the Breast Cancer Awareness Commemorative Coin Act (Signed into law on April 29, 2016)

Directs the Department of the Treasury to mint special breast cancer coins, with proceeds going to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

- Voted to support H.R. 5578, the Survivors’ Bill of Rights Act of 2016 (Signed into law on October 7, 2016).

Ensures sexual assault and rape victims have the following rights: (1) to have their rape kits and other evidence preserved for the length of the statute of limitations of the crime, (2) the right to request the rape kit be kept on file for a longer period of time, and (3) the right to be notified of any and all test results that may come from a rape kit.

- Cosponsor of H.R. 1197, the Accelerating the End of Breast Cancer Act of 2015

Directs the President to establish a commission to accelerate the end of breast cancer. This legislation would allow for the following: (1) the ability to identify opportunities and ideas within both the public and private sector that are key components in achieving the end of breast cancer, (2) recommends projects to leverage these opportunities, and (3) ensures that the federal governments’ various activities are coordinated and non-duplicative.

Both the Congressman and members of his staff have worked closely with patient-advocates from the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester to ensure this legislation is given the attention it deserves.

- Cosponsor of H.R. 2540, the Breast Cancer Education Act of 2015

Directs the Department of Health and Human Services to provide for both the planning and implementation of an education campaign to inform breast cancer patients anticipating surgery about the availability and coverage of breast reconstruction, prostheses, and other available options. This legislation primarily focuses on informing patients who are members of racial and ethnic minority groups of the resources listed above.

- Cosponsor of H.R. 3339, the Protecting Access to Lifesaving Screenings Act

Preserves Medicare coverage for mammography screening for women over the age of 40.

(In 2009, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force had changed its recommendation that women between the ages of 40-49 years old should not receive an annual mammogram.

- Cosponsor of H.R. 1340, the International Violence Against Women Act of 2015

Directs the Secretary of State to establish an Office of Global Women’s Issues to fight gender-based violence throughout the world.

- Voted to fund $1.1Billion to combat the Zika virus

Allocated priority funding for mothers due to the potential microcephaly risk.

- Requested that the Appropriations Committee requests funding for Breast and Ovarian Cancer research through the Department of Defense.

- Supported the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority’s application to receive grant funding that would fund programs to encourage access to prenatal care for low-income families.

Congressman Collins was elected in 2012 and reelected in 2014 to represent the 27th District of New York.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today announced he has earned an A+ rating and the full support of the National Rifle Association (NRA), the nation's premier firearms education organization.

“The unconstitutional regulations passed in Washington and Albany have stripped Western New York gun owners of their Second Amendment rights and freedoms," Congressman Collins said.

"In Washington, I have been proud to advocate on behalf of the law-abiding gun owners whose constitutional rights are constantly under attack by President Obama and Governor Cuomo. I am honored to receive an A+ rating and the full support of the NRA, and will continue to fight for our Second Amendment rights."

Chris Cox, chairman, NRA-PVF, said: “On behalf of the National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund (NRA-PVF) and our five million members, we are proud to endorse Chris Collins. His pro-gun record and steadfast support for the Second Amendment speaks for itself, earning him an 'A+’ rating from the NRA-PVF. New Yorkers can trust Chris Collins to fight against the gun control agenda of President Obama, Hillary Clinton and former NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg in Congress."

NRA ratings for Members of the 114^th Congress are based on their respective votes and efforts to promote and protect the Second Amendment. Since he was elected to Congress, Congressman Collins has voted in support of a number of Second Amendment legislative items, including:

- H.R. 402 – National Right to Carry Reciprocity Act

Amends the federal criminal code to authorize a person who is carrying a valid, government-issued identification document containing that person's photograph and a valid permit to carry a concealed firearm in one state, and who is not prohibited from possessing, transporting, shipping, or receiving a firearm under federal law, to possess or carry a concealed handgun (other than a machine gun or destructive device) in another state in accordance with the restrictions of that state.

- H.R. 4321 – Separation of Powers Restoration and Second Amendment Protection Act

This legislation and would prohibit federal funding for enforcement of any executive action in violation of the Second Amendment.

- H.R. 3516 - Social Security Beneficiary Second Amendment Rights Protection Act

Would prohibit Social Security from entering seniors into the National Instant Criminal Background Check System as a “mental defective” if they use a “representative payee,” which would prohibit them from gun ownership.

Congressman Collins also introduced H.R. 1488, the Protecting Gun Owners in Bankruptcy Act. This legislation ensures that despite financial troubles, Americans' Second Amendment rights will be protected.

Congressman Collins was elected in 2012 and reelected in 2014 to represent the 27th District of New York. The district includes 105 towns spread out over all or part of Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston, and Ontario counties.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today announced $134,443 in federal funding for the Darien Volunteer Fire Department. The grant was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG), which is designed to help first responders improve their capability to respond to fires and emergencies of all types.

“Our first responders routinely risk their lives to protect us,” Congressman Collins said. “The least we can do is provide them with the equipment, training, and funding they need to do their jobs. This grant funding will help create more efficient and effective first responders, and I am honored to help the Darien Volunteer Fire Department secure this vital funding.”

“This $134,443 in AFG funding will help our Department purchase new SCBA Air Packs,” said Chief Joe Marino of the Darien Volunteer Fire Department. “It is crucial that our Department has these pieces of basic equipment to keep us safe as we protect the Darien community. We look forward to working with Congressman Collins in the future as he continues to work on behalf of our local volunteer fire departments.”

This federal grant will allow the Darien Volunteer Fire Department to purchase new Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Air Packs. This will provide the volunteer firefighters with breathable air whenever they are in an “immediately dangerous to life or health” atmosphere.

The AFG Program provides direct funding assistance to first-responder organizations to obtain much needed emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles and training.

Press release:

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) on Tuesday released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed by unanimous consent legislation to rename the currently unnamed Post Office located at 15 Rochester St., Bergen, as the “Barry G. Miller Post Office.”

“Barry Miller was a pillar of the Bergen community,” Congressman Collins said. “The passage of today’s legislation to rename the Bergen post office will memorialize Mr. Miller’s life of selfless community service. I am honored to have introduced this legislation, and look forward to this bill being signed into law by President Obama."

“Barry enjoyed nothing more than serving his community and he dedicated his life to helping the people of Bergen,” stated Tracy and Loretta Miller, Barry’s parents. “This is a fitting tribute to his service, and we look forward to continuing to work with Rep. Collins to make this a reality.”

Barry Miller was a lifelong Bergen resident, graduating from Byron-Bergen High in 1983 and serving as a member of the Bergen Volunteer Fire Department for 31 years including 10 as assistant EMS Chief before he was tragically killed in the line of duty. In addition to working at the Bergen Volunteer Fire Department, Barry was a Genesee County coroner, a member of the Bergen Town Board, and owner of Miller's Millworks in Bergen and the Beaver River Lodge in the Adirondacks.

Full text of the legislation, H.R. 4372, can be read here.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) on Wednesday released the following statement after introducing a resolution commemorating the 100^th anniversary of the day the Boy Scouts of America was granted its Federal charter.

“The Boy Scouts of America have played a pivotal role in shaping millions of young lives across our country,” Congressman Collins said. “The values I learned, as a Scout, have formed the foundation of my beliefs and positioned me to succeed throughout my professional career. This resolution officially recognizes one of America’s most influential organizations and I look forward to the Boy Scouts of America continuing their good work.”

On June 15, 1916, the Federal charter of the Boy Scouts of America was passed by the House of Representatives and the Senate and signed into law by President Woodrow Wilson. In the past 100 years, the organization has helped shape the lives of millions of young men. There are more than 2,400,000 youth and 1,000,000 adult volunteers actively involved today in the Boy Scouts of America.

The full resolution, which has 33 original cosponsors, can be read here. The Senate introduced a similar resolution today, which was led by Senator Mike Enzi (WY).

Congressman Collins co-chairs the Scout Caucus in the House of Representatives and is a lifelong member of Boy Scouts, an Assistant Scoutmaster, an Eagle Scout, a member of the Executive Board – Greater Niagara Frontier Council (GNFC) and was chairman of the GNFC National Jamboree for 2001, 2005, 2010, and 2013 as well as the World Jamboree for 2007.

Press release: 

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today released the following statement after reports surfaced that health insurers operating in New York’s Obamacare exchanges requested premium rate increases by as much as 89 percent.

“These requested premium increases come on the heels of the total failure of the New York-based, Obamacare-created CO-OP Health Republic, which has already cost taxpayers more than $265 million at the end of 2015,” Congressman Collins said. “The failure of Health Republic forced thousands of beneficiaries onto more expensive plans and, based on the insurer requests, these beneficiaries will see substantial rate increases next year.

“Now Obamacare’s runaway premium costs are devastating families, businesses, and individuals in Western New York. President Obama’s health plan needs to be left behind with the rest of his failed presidency.”

The report detailing the insurer requested rate hikes can be read here. Health insurers in New York requested increased rates hikes of 17.3 percent on average.

Press release:

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed 18 pieces of legislation this week to combat the nation’s opioid epidemic.

“The opioid epidemic continues to devastate communities here in Western New York,” Congressman Collins said. “There is no silver bullet to fix this issue, but the bipartisan legislative items passed this week will help communities across America educate individuals about the dangers of opioid abuse and work to eradicate this severe epidemic. What is clear is that all levels of government need to be doing everything they can to help tackle this issue before more lives are lost.”

Here is a complete list of the bills that passed the House of Representatives this week. Among the bills are pieces of legislation that establish new grant programs to help local communities, increase opportunities for veterans to become emergency medical technicians, and expand efforts to reduce the overprescribing of opioids. 

Eleven of these bills were passed out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which Congressman Collins is a member.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins today released the following statement announcing the United States Naval Academy’s Summer Programs and encouraging all eligible high school students in New York’s 27^thCongressional District to apply.

“One of my most rewarding responsibilities as a Member of Congress is making nominations to our Military Academies,” Congressman Collins said. “The summer programs provided by the Naval Academy will be a valuable resource to students who are interested in pursuing an appointment to any of the U.S. service academies. The summer programs will challenge students to develop problem-solving techniques and team-building mentalities, and I encourage all interested students to apply.”

The United States Naval Academy offers two summer programs, the Naval Academy Summer Seminar and the Summer Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) seminar. Both of the programs offered will provide students with valuable insight as they continue to pursue their academic enrollment in one of the United States service academies. 

The Naval Academy Summer Seminar is a fast-paced, six-day experience that aims to educate participants about life at the Academy. This program also demonstrates how academic study, athletics, and professional training continues to be a crucial factor in developing our nation’s leaders. The STEM program is a hands-on, design-based program that aims to enhance the participants’ interest in science and technology. By implementing team-building exercises, this program is a valuable opportunity for students who are interested in pursuing a STEM-based career within one of the service academies.

For more information about the USNA’s Summer Programs, please visit http://www.usna.edu/Admissions/index.php.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins today released the following statement announcing this year's Congressional Art Competition and encouraging local high school students in New York's 27th District to participate.

"It is a tremendous experience for members of Congress and the hundreds of thousands of capitol visitors to view the artwork submitted by high school students from around the country as a result of this competition," Collins said. "I always look forward to seeing the artwork submitted by the talented students of NY-27 and the opportunity to welcome our winning artist to Washington."

Last year there were more than 85 submissions. The winning artist will receive a roundtrip flight to Washington, D.C., to see their artwork in the U.S. Capitol, where it will be on display for one year.

Now in its 34th year, the competition is open to all high school students in New York's 27th Congressional District. Submissions are due to either of Congressman Collins's two district offices by April 4. A reception and award ceremony will be held on Saturday, April 9, at Genesee Community College in Batavia. Local high schools have been notified regarding contest rules and submission guidelines.

Interested students should see their art teacher for details or contact Chris Catt from Congressman Collins's office at (585) 519-4002.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) is encouraging local fire departments and Emergency Medical Service (EMS) providers to apply for federal Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

AFG funds assist fire departments and other first responders in procuring the critical equipment and protective gear necessary to best serve their local communities. The funding can also be utilized to acquire training and additional resources that are necessary for protecting the public and emergency personnel.

FEMA will begin accepting applications from eligible departments beginning on Monday, Dec. 7^th at 8 a.m. EST. Applications must be submitted by Jan. 15 at 5 p.m. EST.

“It is important that our local fire companies have the tools and resources they need to keep their members safe and effectively protect our community,” Congressman Collins said. “FEMA’s grant program helps them do just that, and I encourage departments throughout NY-27 to apply.”

More information on this year’s AFG program can be found at: http://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program. Applicants with further questions or those seeking letters of support from Congressman Collins should call the Geneseo District Office at (585) 519-4002.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today released the following statement reminding students of the deadline to apply for U.S. Service Academy nominations.

“As a Member of Congress, I am honored to nominate students from New York’s 27th District to attend United States Service Academies” Congressman Collins said. “Our nation’s service academies would be lucky to have the intelligent and hardworking students that make up Western New York attend their institutions.”

The deadline to apply for a Congressional Nomination to a U.S. Service Academy through Congressman Collins’ office is 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6th. Service Academy Review Board interviews will be conducted on Saturday, Nov. 21, at Batavia City Hall and are required for a nomination.

Information for what is required to apply can be found on the Congressman's Web site at chriscollins.house.gov/services or by calling 716-634-2324. Prospective applicants should request to speak with Kristine Bieniek, the Congressman's Service Academy coordinator. She can be reached at 716-634-2324.