Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), alongside Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20), Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Congressman Joseph Morelle (NY-25), Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23), Congressman Brandon Williams (NY-22), and Congressman Marc Molinaro (NY-19) introduced bipartisan legislation to protect benefits and access to care for hundreds of thousands of seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans in Upstate New York.
Last year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) made a needed adjustment to the wage index for Upstate hospitals, treating geographically rural and rural reclassified hospitals equally. This change led to wage index increases of 20-40% across Upstate New York.
While this provided significant relief for hospitals that had been severely underpaid by the fee-for-service program, it inadvertently placed substantial financial pressure on regional Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, which are predominantly non-profit organizations. Because CMS did not account for these new costs in their benchmark rates for 2024, MA plans have experienced significant financial challenges that jeopardize plans’ ability to provide affordable, quality coverage to their beneficiaries. Without relief, health plans will be forced to cut benefits and increase premiums for seniors who can least afford it.
This legislation would address these dramatic reductions in access and benefits by granting CMS the ability to adjust their benchmark amounts to account for local areas with wage indices that grew by 20 percent or greater. This needed relief will ensure regional, non-profit MA plans remain viable and safeguard enrollees’ robust benefits and access to quality care.
“Our community's seniors deserve continued access to affordable, high-quality healthcare,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “By adjusting the benchmark rates to reflect the increased costs faced by our regional plans, we can protect our seniors from losing essential coverage and experiencing higher premiums. This bill will ensure that Medicare Advantage plans continue to provide the robust benefits that so many members of our community rely on.”
“Ensuring our seniors have access to the most affordable health plans and are able to maintain their popular Medicare Advantage benefits is one of my top priorities which is why I am proud to co-lead this legislation to address the wage index reclassification,” said Congresswoman Stefanik.
“Many Upstate New Yorkers rely on not-for-profit Medicare Advantage plans,” said Congressman Molinaro. “I’m proud to support Rep. Tenney’s bill to give CMS the authority to ensure seniors have access to the benefits they earned and are fully cared for.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today announced the 15 projects she selected to submit to the House Appropriations Committee for consideration as part of the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Community Project Funding (CPF) process.
These projects will benefit New York’s 24th District by improving water infrastructure, creating essential public facilities, supporting public safety, and promoting community revitalization.
The CPF process allows localities and non-profits to submit federal funding requests for high-priority community projects with strong local support in New York’s 24th Congressional District. Each application was subjected to a rigorous review process to ensure that it is a sound use of taxpayer dollars and that applicants have a clear and accountable plan to spend funds on targeted projects within a year.
A list of Tenney’s submitted FY25 CPF Requests can be found here, or below:
$4,528,000 for the Town of Phelps Sanitary Sewer Distribution Project
$2,500,000 for the Cayuga County Lake Protection Plan Project
$3,000,000 for the Village of Geneseo Water and Sewer Upgrades Project
$3,500,000 for the Village of Waterloo Rock Storm Sewer Replacement Project
$3,000,000 for the Town of Newfane Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades Project
$1,500,000 for the Village of Mexico’s Water System Improvements Project
$10,000,000 for the Genesee County Section 219 Environmental Infrastructure Project
$2,250,000 for the Town of Torrey Water District #2 Project
$2,000,000 for the Orleans County Public Safety Building Project
$1,000,000 for the City of Oswego New Police Station Project
$800,000 for the Town of Macedon Ambulance Relocation Project
$5,000,000 for the Town of Lyons Revival and Community Empowerment Project
$3,600,000 for Phase III of the City of Lockport’s Erie Canal Flight of Five Locks Rehabilitation Project
$3,000,000 for the Wyoming County Silver Lake Dredging Project
$4,050,000 for Jefferson County Installation of Runway 10 Omni-Directional Approach Lights at Watertown International Airport Project
"One of my top priorities in Congress is to ensure our community has the resources it needs to thrive, and the Community Project Funding program is a fantastic way to overcome bureaucratic red tape and return our hard-earned tax dollars to NY-24," said Congresswoman Tenney. "The Community Project Funding program allows our local communities to advocate for the best way to spend taxpayer dollars instead of relying on bureaucrats in Washington. These projects will benefit New York's 24th District by supporting water infrastructure programs, improving community safety, and creating essential public facilities that promote community revitalization. I am dedicated to fighting for these projects in the Appropriations process and will continue to be a tenacious advocate for our District in Congress."
Community leaders who worked with Congresswoman Tenney’s office on submitting funding proposals expressed their support for the projects below:
“On behalf of the Cayuga County Water & Sewer Authority, I want to extend my grateful appreciation to our Representative Congresswoman, Claudia Tenney for including the “Cayuga Lake Protection Project” in this year’s Community Project Funding, (CPF) grant selection process. And we do hereby commit to working with Congresswoman Tenney, as this project advances through these Appropriations Committee, to successfully Appropriate this Request for the Construction of the Cayuga Lake Protection Project. As this project will not only safeguard New York's Drinking Water Resources, it will also greatly aid in the Efficient removal of substandard private sewer treatment systems. Once more it will protect and safeguard the New York State Finger Lakes for Generations to come, for Clean Drinking Water Resources, Recreation, Boating, Fishing, Etc. It is anticipated that the Cayuga Lake Protection Project (CLLP) Sewer will Extend along the East Shore of Cayuga Lake from the Village of Aurora, NY, South to the Tompkins County line, serving an Estimated 450 homes. We thank Congresswoman Claudia Tenney for her Service to Cayuga County, and her consideration of this most significant project for these Estimated 450 homes on the Easterly Shores of Beautiful Cayuga Lake,” said Cayuga County Water & Sewer Authority Chairman Brian Dahl.
“Genesee County’s top priority is securing reliable and sustainable water through new water infrastructure. Given the magnitude of the need, we cannot do this alone, and we are grateful for the Congresswoman’s continued support to secure federal resources to meet this dire need,” said Genesee County Legislature Chair Rochelle M. Stein.
“On behalf of the residents of the Town of Phelps, I would like to say “Thank You” to Congresswoman Claudia Tenney for her support of our wastewater infrastructure project on Route 14. We are very thankful for Congresswoman Tenney moving our request to the Appropriations Committee for review and consideration. The sewer line project will work to enhance the viability of development in our town and will allow us to have intermunicipal agreements with the Town and City of Geneva. Federal funds for this project are essential for the timely construction of this project in an area which will service thousands of visitors to the Finger Lakes area. I would like to extend appreciation for all ofthe hard work and especially taking the time to listen to the needs of the people to Representative Claudia Tenney, New York District 24,” said Phelps Town Supervisor Bill Wellman.
“The Orleans County Public Safety Building is a vitally important epicenter for several functions of our government, housing the Sheriff, 911 Dispatch Center, District Attorney and Probation, so we are very appreciative to Congresswomen Tenny for making our project to upgrade this facility one the priority initiatives to be sent to the House Appropriations Committee. Our DPW team has worked closely with Sheriff Bourke and DA Cardone to design a project that addresses critical structural issues with the facility in the most cost-effective manner possible while also helping improve the overall functionality of the building. This is not just a building project, it is an investment in our community’s safety and security,” said Orleans Legislature Chairman Lynne Johnson.
“The Town of Torrey and the residents of the Perry Point Water District are very happy to be included in the tremendous work Congresswoman Tenney is doing for our region. This grant would provide the residents with clean and safe drinking water as well as protect the pristine waters of Seneca Lake,” said Supervisor of the Town of Torrey Peter Martini.
“The people of the Village of Geneseo are extremely grateful to Congresswoman Claudia Tenney for selecting our vital infrastructure project as part of her 2025 Community Project funding grants for consideration by the Appropriations Committee. These funds will enable us to replace 125 year old water mains and eliminate flooding damage from the combined sewer system and stormwater overflows,” said Village of Geneseo Mayor Chris Ivers.
“On behalf of the residents of Wyoming County, especially those living around Silver Lake, and the Board of Supervisors, I extend our sincere appreciation for Congresswoman Tenney’s selection of the Silver Lake dredging project to submit to the House Appropriations Committee. Congresswoman Tenney understands and shares the values we hold as part of our proud agricultural heritage. An integral part of the environmental stewardship we are tasked with is to fulfill our mission of a healthier and more resilient Silver Lake. It is not only an essential component of our county’s robust tourism industry, but is also a prime drinking water source for multiple communities spanning Wyoming and Livingston counties. This important funding will help to preserve sensitive habitats, protect water quality, and enhance public waterway access. We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Tenney for her unwavering support in this project and for Wyoming County,” said Wyoming County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Becky Ryan.
"We are grateful for the Congresswoman's support. This project will provide improved visibility for pilots during poor visibility conditions in order to maximize operations during low visibility and cloud conditions when winds require use of the runway 10," said Director of Aviation of Watertown International Airport Grant W. Sussey.
“The Historic Flight of Five Locks, located in the heart of the city of Lockport, NY is the largest remaining intact section of the historic Erie Canal, and this funding will help further revitalize a true 19th century engineering marvel. The rehabilitation of the Flight of Five Locks is anticipated to significantly increase the number of visitors and the amount of tourist spending in the city of Lockport and greater Niagara County, making this project an economic development driver for the entire Western New York region,” said City of Lockport Mayor John Lombardi.
“The City of Lockport has maintained a steadfast approach for many years to capitalize on its unique heritage assets, most notably, the Historic Erie Canal Flight of Five Locks. The Flight of Five is a site that has positioned itself to become the premier destination for visitors and residents looking to learn more about our historic Erie Canal,” said Senator Ortt. “Thank you to Congresswoman Tenney for submitting the Lock 67 & 68 restoration project to the House Appropriations Committee and securing funding to bring this important piece of history back to life. These efforts will continue to make the Erie Canal and the City of Lockport an economic driver for all of Western New York,” said NYS Senator Robert G. Ortt, 62nd Senate District.
"Congresswoman Tenney’s extraordinary commitment for the preservation of the Flight of Five Locks is truly a significant milestone in the continued and long-term capital objective in fully restoring this historic treasure. I applaud Congresswoman Tenney for listening and working closely with state and local officials to make this a top priority for our region and have found this to be one of the finest collaborations of officials working together during my time in public service. The Erie Canal and the Flight of Five has been the epicenter of Lockport’s rich history, economic development and tourism opportunities and Congresswoman Tenney’s fierce advocacy and strong support at the federal level is a very important step in ensuring this mission continues in Lockport for generations to come,” said NYS Assemblyman Michael J. Norris, 144th District.
"We are very thankful that Congresswoman Tenny has identified the Flight of Five locks as one of her priority projects for funding, continuing to build upon the previous investments that have been made in the project," said Niagara County Legislator Rick Abbott. "This project is about restoring an important piece of our history to help drive future economic growth and build upon Lockport's reputation as a center for heritage tourism,” said Niagara County Legislator Richard E. Abbott, 13th District.
“On behalf of the Town of Newfane, I want to say “Thank You” to Congresswoman Claudia Tenney for supporting the critical improvements to the Town of Newfane’s wastewater treatment plant. This project is all about ensuring the health of Newfane residents and the Lake Ontario watershed. The Town of Newfane works hard to build on the extensive amount of sport fishing and water-based business in the community; these improvements to the wastewater treatment plant will solidify those plans. With the help from Congresswoman Tenney we will be able to lift the financial burden off of our residents and guarantee a healthy community,” said Newfane Town Supervisor John Syracuse.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) voted in favor of seven pieces of legislation focused on supporting our law enforcement officers and ensuring they have the resources and tools they need to keep our communities and themselves safe.
These bills all passed the House of Representatives with Tenney’s support:
H.R. 354, the Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA) Reform Act, broadens the ability of qualified active and retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms in areas such as school zones, national parks, federal facilities open to the public, and state, local, or private property open to the public.
H.R. 8146, the Police Our Border Act, requires the Attorney General to report detailed information on how Biden’s border crisis impacts our law enforcement, including exposures to fentanyl, injuries sustained, financial burdens, and operational strains.
H.R. 7343, the Detain and Deport Illegal Aliens Who Assault Cops Act, requires that illegal aliens who assault law enforcement officers are quickly arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) until they are removed from the United States.
H.R. 7581, the Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act of 2024, requires the Attorney General to assemble reports on violence against law enforcement officers and the effectiveness of programs meant to provide law enforcement with wellness resources and protective equipment so we may comprehensively enhance the safety of police officers.
S. 546, the Recruit and Retain Act, expands the U.S. Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant program to include recruitment and retention efforts and establishes the COPS Pipeline Partnership Program to support partnerships between local schools and law enforcement agencies to improve recruitment.
H. Res. 1213 addresses violence against law enforcement officers by condemning calls for defunding police and anti-police sentiment that have increased violence against police, acknowledging the mental and physical impacts such violence has on police, and expressing condolences and appreciation to the families of fallen law enforcement officers.
H. Res. 1210 condemns President Biden’s border crisis and the dangers and burdens it has created for America’s law enforcement officers and urges the Biden Administration to support the law enforcement officers defending our homeland.
“Our courageous law enforcement officers risk their lives every day for our communities, and they deserve to have the tools, legal protections, and support they need to do their jobs safely and efficiently,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Yet thanks to the ‘defund and demoralize the police’ movement perpetuated by President Biden and the Left, assaults on our law enforcement officers have hit a ten-year high. President Biden and Congressional Democrats have abandoned these brave men and women, choosing instead to support dangerous illegal immigrants and criminals. During National Police Week, House Republicans reiterated our support for our men and women in blue and passed multiple bills dedicated to combating skyrocketing crime and protecting our police officers. I will always Back the Blue and support our nation’s law enforcement officers!”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), co-chair of the Election Integrity Caucus, announced the End Zuckerbucks Act passed the Ways and Means Committee by a vote of 23-17.
Tenney’s bill, the End Zuckerbucks Act, amends the Internal Revenue Code to prohibit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations from directly or indirectly providing funds for the purpose of the administration of elections.
In the 2020 election, Mark Zuckerberg used a non-profit organization called the Center for Tech and Civic Life (CTCL) to distribute $350 million to local boards of elections in left-leaning county governments in Texas, Ohio, Nevada, Minnesota, Georgia, Florida, Arizona, and Pennsylvania under the guise of “making voting safer amid the pandemic.” Yet less than 1% of those funds were spent on PPE or other measures to implement safety protocols at voting sites and were provided with little to no oversight on spending. 92% of the funds went to left-leaning districts, where reports say they were used to fund advertising, vehicle purchases, and other activities unrelated to the pandemic.
“Twenty-eight states have banned Zuckerbucks, prohibiting partisan bureaucrats, billionaires, and corrupt special interest groups from interfering in our election process. It’s time for the federal government to follow suit,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “As the founder and co-chair of the Election Integrity Caucus, I am pleased to see this common-sense election integrity bill advance in the Ways and Means Committee and move one step closer to being signed into law. We must restore confidence in our self-governing Constitutional Republic by ensuring that Americans in every state and territory have free, fair, accurate, and transparent elections.”
“During the 2020 election cycle, we saw private donations worth hundreds of millions of dollars laundered through 501(c)(3) organizations into Democrat-run cities and counties in swing states that appeared to favor one political party over another,” said Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith. “The U.S. Tax Code should not be used to support the electioneering efforts of wealthy private donors. Rep. Tenney’s bill, the End Zuckerbucks Act, protects the integrity of our elections by prohibiting charitable tax-exempt organizations from providing direct funding to official election organizations.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), alongside Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Congressman John Larson (CT-01), and Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Essential Caregivers Act today.
This bill would protect the residents in long-term care facilities, giving all residents nationwide the right to have in person access to an essential caregiver when visitations are restricted due to a declared emergency. The bipartisan bill seeks to prevent a repeat of the isolation and lack of care that long-term care residents were unjustly subjected to during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also requires CMS to set clear and fair guidelines for essential caregivers to protect the safety of facility staff and residents.
Additional cosponsors of this legislation include Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Adrian Smith(NE-03), John Rutherford (FL-05), Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), Susan Wild, (PA-07), Mike Carey (OH-15), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Susie Lee (NV-03), Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Donald Davis (NC-01).
“Under federal law, nursing homes and long-term care facilities have the obligation to allow their residents access to caregivers,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Sadly, during the COVID-19 pandemic, this right was denied to many residents and families, causing many seniors and patients to suffer and die alone. This injustice should never occur again, which is why Congressman John Larson, Senator Richard Blumenthal, and Senator John Cornyn and I introduced the Essential Caregivers Act. We must fix this loophole to protect the rights of senior citizens, those with disabilities, and their families during the next public health crisis.”
“The COVID-19 pandemic brought to light the vital role family members play in the care and wellbeing of their loved ones in long-term care facilities,” said Senator Blumenthal. “The Essential Caregivers Act ensures that in the event of a future emergency, residents in these facilities will still be able to receive the support, care, and companionship that their family members provide. This commonsense legislation allows at least one designated essential caregiver to have safe, in-person access to their loved ones at all times—ultimately protecting the overall physical, emotional, and mental health of long-term care residents.”
“The COVID-19 pandemic taught us that isolation hurts all of us, yet countless families were prevented from being with their loved ones during their time of need,” said Congressman Larson. “I am glad to join Rep. Tenney and Senators Blumenthal and Cornyn in this bipartisan and bicameral effort to expand visiting access for essential caregivers during future public health emergencies to ensure residents can get the support they need from their loved ones and never again face the isolation that was a reality for far too many patients.”
“The COVID-19 pandemic showed just how invaluable caregivers are to the physical and emotional wellbeing of long-term care facility residents and their families,” said Senator Cornyn. “This bill would ensure residents have consistent access to their loved ones or other designated caregivers, even during public health emergencies when regular visitation may be limited.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) voted in favor of H.R. 8034, the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2024; H.R. 8036, the Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024; H.R. 8038, the 21st Century Peace through Strength Act; and H.R. 3602, the End the Border Catastrophe Act. These bills will support Israel, strengthen our national security, deter our adversaries, and secure our borders.
H.R. 8034, which allocates $26.38 billion for Israel passed the House by a vote of 366-58.
H.R. 8036, which allocates $8.12 billion to counter communist China, passed the House by a vote of 385-34.
H.R. 8038, which will implement strong sanctions and policies to counter Iran, China, and Russia, and ban TikTok, passed the House by a vote of 360-58.
H.R. 3602, which would have implemented many of the policies included in H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act, failed to pass the House via suspension by a vote of 215-199.
"President Biden has repeatedly failed to support our allies, fueling our adversaries and projecting weakness on the international stage, making it imperative that House Republicans provide strong and resolute leadership," said Congresswoman Tenney.
"This week, the House demonstrated the necessity of supporting our allies while providing single-subject spending bills that restore regular order. This is essential to providing transparency and oversight to our legislative process.”
"In order to support Israel, our greatest ally, we must continue to provide them with the resources they need to defend themselves against Iranian-backed terrorist organizations. Iran's recent drone and missile assault demonstrated the Iron Dome's state-of-the-art capabilities. If it weren't for this technology, Iran's attack would have been catastrophic. This legislation allocates $4 billion to replenish Iron Dome and David's Sling missile defense systems to continue defending Israel from attacks. The United States must also continue to counter the Chinese Communist Party’s increased aggression and ensure a robust regional deterrence. The CCP continues to enhance its intelligence capabilities, threatening our national security and Taiwan's statehood. I am pleased this legislation included $3.3 billion to develop submarine infrastructure under AUKUS, including investments in dry dock construction and advance procurement for Columbia Class and Virginia Class. We must continue to support Taiwan, whose security is critical to American interests in the region.”
“The 21st Century Peace through Strength Act also includes much-needed enhancements to the Senate’s bill. This legislation bolsters our national security, by including legislation to force the sale of TikTok to protect Americans’ data from China and crack down on their malign influence.”
“Finally, the End the Border Catastrophe Act would finally institute key policies, such as the Remain in Mexico policy and the Migrant Protection Protocols, to secure our Northern and Southern Borders. This bill demonstrates House Republicans' continued commitment to reversing the disastrous Biden policies that have allowed 9 million illegal aliens to cross our borders. While some of my Democratic colleagues crossed the aisle to support this commonsense bill, I am disappointed that the overwhelming majority of Democrats stood by the Biden Administration’s failed policies. Rest assured, the House Republican Majority will continue to do everything in our power to protect our communities and secure the border.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) voted against H. R. 8035, the Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2024 totaling more than $60.84 billion.
This bill ultimately passed the House by a vote of 311-112, with one voting present.
“I care deeply about the courageous people of Ukraine and the perilous situation they face against Putin’s unprovoked invasion and his diabolical actions against civilians, and particularly children. However, once again, instead of outlining a long-term plan for addressing the war in Ukraine, we're hastily throwing billions of taxpayer dollars at a problem without a clear solution or exit strategy,” said Congresswoman Tenney.
“While I appreciate the bill's provisions requiring a plan for taxpayer spending, it's imprudent to vote on both the overall budget and spending details until after this plan is available for Congress to review. Before any funds are allocated, we owe every American taxpayer a clear path forward with a well-defined exit strategy.”
“While I support President Trump's suggestion that aid to Ukraine should be in the form of loans, President Biden should not have the authority to forgive up to half these loans during his lame duck period. No loans should be forgiven before the next administration. Furthermore, the United States has steadfastly supported Ukraine, and now it's time for our European allies to step up and shoulder their share of the responsibility. Further, we must address the underlying policies that led to this war by the United States and our European partners. Our European allies’ radical green energy policies and Biden’s ban on liquid natural gas exports continue to cause Europe to rely on Russian energy, which funds Putin’s brutal war and gives Putin leverage. Finally, our European partners must contribute more to the war in Ukraine. While the American people have already contributed generously to Ukraine’s defense, including humanitarian aid, the Europeans have yet to match American contributions. Europe must do more to address its own security needs. Americans in NY-24 and across the country rightfully expect their tax dollars to be used to support America First.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney announces fundraising of $695,955 for the first Quarter across all entities, including over 14,500 donors who gave an average of $28.
“I’m grateful that my work to secure our southern border, investigate the Biden Crime family, and support for our Second Amendment rights has attracted so much support across NY-24, New York State, and throughout our country. I am committed to the work that is ahead of us, ensuring we make Joe Biden a one-term President and return to America First policies.”
This large haul of donations comes on the heels of an exciting month for Team Tenney. Filing in Albany for both the Conservative and Republican lines with overwhelming numbers of signatures, being endorsed by House Speaker Mike Johnson and the 45th President Donald Trump. Tenney has huge momentum as she looks at the year ahead.
“As I go out into the community, I constantly hear, ‘When are we going to shut the border? When are we going to get the economy back on track? When are we going to stop this woke nonsense that plagues the country?’ I am the only candidate in this race that has a conservative record of results. When we elect President Trump in November, and he returns to the White House, I’m ready to hit the ground running and help him pass his legislative agenda so we can Make America Great Again.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) sent a letter to National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) President Charlie Baker urging him to change the NCAA's policies to ban biological men from participating in women's sports.
In addition to Tenney, the letter was signed by Representatives Jeff Duncan (SC-3), Nick Langworthy (NY-23), Dan Crenshaw (TX-2), Barry Moore (AL-2), Daniel Webster (FL-11), Christopher Smith (NJ-4), Neal Dunn (FL-2), Glenn Grothman (WI-6), Diana Harshbarger (TN-1), Anthony D'Esposito (NY-4), Rich McCormick (GA-6), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-1), Jim Banks (IN-3), Randy Weber (TX-14), Max Miller (OH-7), and Greg Steube (FL-17).
While the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) recently approved changing its policy to prohibit biological men from participating in women's sports, collegiate women's sports remain under attack. The University of South Carolina women's basketball coach, Dawn Staley, recently made a statement in which she voiced her support for biological men to play in women's sports. Not only is this dangerous, but it erodes critical Title IX protections.
"We must protect the opportunity for women and girls to compete and succeed in athletics fairly," said Congresswoman Tenney. "While I applaud the NAIA's recent decision to ban biological men from women's sports, I am deeply disturbed that the NCAA is ignoring the facts and failing to do the same. Women fought hard to earn the critical protections of Title IX, and we must continue to protect these opportunities for generations to come. I am dedicated to defending the future of women's sports and providing a level playing field for all female athletes."
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) invited local leaders to sign up for updates for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Community Project Funding (CPF). This process is an important initiative for members of Congress to advocate for crucial projects that enhance our communities.
Instead of relying on bureaucrats to make critical funding decisions, this process provides transparency, accountability, and rigorous oversight with congressional input.
The FY25 CPF process will allow localities and non-profits to submit requests for federal funding for high-priority community projects in New York’s 24th District. All CPF applications supported by Tenney’s office must meet rigorous eligibility requirements, as outlined in the appropriations guidance.
Additionally, applicants must exhibit robust community backing for projects and present a clear strategy using the funds in a timely manner. Tenney’s office collaborates with all grantees throughout the process to vet requests and ensure allocated funds are utilized responsibly and for their intended purpose. The CPF process is targeted and limited; it has historically been capped at .5% of federal spending.
Local elected officials and non-profits planning on submitting applications for projects should visit Tenney’s website here to signal their interest. After signing up, interested organizations will be updated when guidance for the FY25 CPF process is released, and the formal application window opens.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today voted in favor of the Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act, the largest intelligence reform package since FISA’s creation in 1978. This legislation prevents the FBI from targeting Americans, increases transparency and accountability in our intelligence community, and strengthens our national security.
H.R. 7888, passed the House by a vote of 273-147.
“At a time when our adversaries are ramping up their intelligence and military capabilities and seeking to orchestrate attacks on our homeland, we must ensure that our intelligence community has the capabilities to swiftly counteract and prevent terrorist attacks,” said Congresswoman Tenney.
“Section 702, which applies only to foreigners outside the United States, is the most critical tool to keeping America safe, whether it is countering Cyber Attacks, hindering the flow of deadly fentanyl into our country, or averting threats from China, Iran, and foreign terrorist organizations. Our Republican Majority is committed to preventing another Russia Hoax FISA disaster and ensuring that FISA can no longer be abused to target Americans and political adversaries. The abuses by the FBI have been outrageous and unlawful. I support Representative Mike Garcia’s condemnation of FBI Director Wray for failing to uphold the law and holding those who violated our laws accountable. This legislation provides 56 reforms to current law, including reducing the number of FBI agents who can perform Section 702 searches by 90 percent, and enhances criminal penalties for those who violate FISA, leak FISA applications, or lie to the FISA Court. Importantly, this bill also prohibits vague “abouts” searches that make broad sweeping searches of data.”
“This bill does not include a dangerous proposal that would have granted Fourth Amendment rights to foreign nationals by requiring a warrant to search foreign surveillance data already lawfully collected by our national security agencies. Under existing law, national security agencies already require a warrant to collect data and take any action against U.S. citizens. This amendment would hamper important law enforcement efforts to protect Americans and would further the radical Defund and Demoralize the Police movement that has been codified by New York’s Greenlight and Bail Reform laws. Approximately 90 percent of individuals on the terror watch list have crossed our Northern Border illegally, leaving New York particularly vulnerable to terror threats. Section 702 is a critical tool for law enforcement to protect New Yorkers and all Americans. By not reauthorizing a substantially reformed Section 702, we would have allowed our foreign adversaries to plan terrorist attacks without our knowledge. This would give our enemies the ability to undermine our freedoms and orchestrate attacks on our soil. As a Constitutional lawyer, I remain dedicated to protecting our civil liberties and privacy while defending our national security. This bill furthers the reforms to Section 702, which was made by and supported by President Trump in 2017, and I was honored to support its passage.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today introduced the Don’t Quit to Lobby Act to change the timeframe that a former Member of Congress is prohibited from lobbying to one year after the Member’s elected term ends in the House, and two years after the Senator’s elected term ends in the Senate.
Currently, Members of Congress are prohibited from lobbying for one year after they leave office. However, the existing legislation fails to consider Members of Congress who voluntarily end their terms prematurely, creating an incentive for them to retire in pursuit of more financially rewarding opportunities.
“Elected officials made a commitment to their constituents to serve to the best of their abilities their full elected terms,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Recently, an increased number of members of Congress have abandoned their posts and neglected their commitment to their constituents in order to cash out and make millions lobbying. The Don’t Quit to Lobby Act ensures that when these members leave office, they are forbidden from engaging in lobbying activities for one year after their elected term ends, guarding against potential early retirements solely driven by financial opportunities. We must uphold the integrity of public service!”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) announced her office will be hosting a Webinar with guests from the Social Security Administration (SSA) to discuss retirement best practices, fraud protection, and other services the SSA offers.
This webinar is open to all constituents and aims to provide an overview of best practices for retirement preparation. Guests from the SSA will share invaluable tips and strategies for navigating the complexities of retirement and accessing vital SSA resources.
When: Tuesday, April 30
Time: noon
Format: Zoom Webinar
RSVP: To receive the link to the webinar, email NY24.RSVP@mail.house.gov
This webinar is being hosted as part of Congresswoman Tenney’s monthly webinar series, in which the Congresswoman connects residents of New York’s 24th Congressional District to resources and support at the federal level. Recordings of past webinars can be found on Tenney’s website here.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) voted against the H.R. 2882, the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024, which includes funding for Defense, Financial Services and General Government, Homeland Security, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, the Legislative Branch, and State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs.
This bill passed the House by a vote of 286 - 134.
"Once again, instead of instituting a serious cut to excessive federal spending, Congress was forced to vote on a massive spending bill that perpetuates President Biden's policies that are detrimental to hardworking Americans," said Congresswoman Tenney.
"Crafted at the last minute, this sprawling 1,012-page bill allocates $1.2 trillion of taxpayer funds and fails to include numerous priorities House Republicans advocated for during the appropriations process. This includes critical initiatives to bolster border security, such as reinstating the effective Trump era policy of "Remain in Mexico," and it fails to end Biden's disastrous Catch-and-Release policy, fails to sufficiently curtail funding for President Biden's woke agenda, and fails to halt Biden's unlawful proposed student loan program. While this bill had positive aspects, including a $27 billion increase to critical national defense efforts, this legislation was not enough to protect the American people. I could not, in good faith, support legislation that did not provide relief to hardworking families in NY24."
This bill:
Fails to include Rep. Tenney’s amendments to defund the salaries of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre Fails
Does not include funds for President Trump’s Border wall or any key policies in H.R. 2 especially by ending Biden's dangerous Catch and Release policy and re-instating Trump's effective Remain in Mexico policy
Continues to allow universities to host CCP-controlled Confucius Institutes
Fully funds the Department of Defense (DOD) abortion travel fund
Continues to fund woke DOD policies, such as DEI programs and transgender surgeries
Violates the Hyde Amendment and funds Planned Parenthood
Continues to fund the World Health Organization
Fails to defund the Biden administration’s woke executive orders
Funds radical Green New Deal programs
Subsidizes Biden’s student loan bailout scheme
Continues to fund Executive Order 14019 which turns federal agencies into Democrat vote-harvesting operations
Includes funds for radical organizations like Briarpatch Youth Service, which provides gender transition services to minors without parental consent, and the Hawaii Health and Harm Reduction Center which provides free needle and syringe exchanges for illegal drugs
Despite the wasteful spending in this bill, key provisions which Tenney fought for in this bill include:
Fully funding the Civil Air Patrol and Job Corps programs
Providing a $27 billion increase for Defense over the FY23 enacted level
Ensuring a 5.2% increase in basic military pay
Clawing back $2.16 billion in unused COVID-19 funding
Defunding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, which supported the horrific October 7th Massacre
Taking back $10 billion from the Administration
Securing $5 million for non-recurring engineering expenses to design the new LC-130J planes that will be operated by the New York National Guard
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today voted in favor of H.R. 7521, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, which would ensure the safety of Americans' data and the national security of the United States from threats posed by foreign adversary-controlled applications such as TikTok.
This bill, which Tenney cosponsored, passed the House by a vote of 352-65, with one present vote.
Over the last two weeks, the Chinese Communist Party has worked aggressively to spread misinformation about this bill. This bill does not apply to U.S.-owned companies, so the risk of weaponization of this legislation against U.S. social media companies, such as X, Truth Social, or Rumble, is not applicable.
The enforcement powers are limited to applications owned by China, Iran, Russia, or North Korea. This bill also does not mention "election interference," which some pro-TikTok advocates have claimed will be weaponized against conservatives. H.R. 7521 would merely require applications controlled by China, Iran, Russia, or North Korea to either divest ownership of the foreign adversary or face a prohibition from operating in the United States.
"Congress has heard consistently from the intelligence community about the serious threats posed by TikTok to our national security," said Congresswoman Tenney. "With over 170 million users, TikTok is the Chinese Communist Party's propaganda megaphone, using the App to manipulate and exploit users' data for its own surveillance and monetary gains. Congress took a decisive and critical measure prohibiting the Chinese Communist Party from controlling the TikTok application. I remain dedicated to cracking down on the CCP's malign influence and working to ensure that our adversaries do not have access to sensitive data held by individuals and businesses who use the App."
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today voted against the omnibus government funding bill for the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) due to its failure to rein in out-of-control government spending, cut wasteful and woke programs, and lower costs for hardworking families.
This bill passed the House by a vote of 339-85.
“With over $34 trillion of national debt and counting, Congress should not spend another $1.65 trillion while failing to address the crises plaguing our nation in a meaningful way,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “I understand the complexity and frustration of a divided government, however, our communities will continue to suffer under Biden’s policies that spend our tax dollars on the woke and Green New Deal projects that have been inserted into this bill. This 1,050-page spending monstrosity does not provide the relief that the American people are demanding and will only increase already sky-high prices and add to our national debt. There are positive aspects of this bill, including the 12 Community Funding Projects we submitted to help residents of NY-24. Other positives include fully funding veterans’ healthcare and toxic exposure programs, military construction projects, and important agricultural research programs, but this bill in its entirety, negotiated behind closed doors, is a bridge too far.”
Some of the worst provisions in this bill include:
Provide $3.5 million for an initiative to create parade floats
Supports the Biden administration's illegal Waters of the United States (WOTUS) Rule
Fails to rein in the ATF’s anti-second amendment rules
Maintains funding for the VA’s and DOJ’s anti-life initiatives
Gives $1 million to a private entity to construct a coffee shop and a greenhouse for refugees
Funnels $1 million to the WE ACT environmentalist group in New York City
Continues allowing leftist bureaucrats to fly pride flags and other political flags over federal buildings
Wastes taxpayer money on Critical Race Theory and the DEI Executive Offices
Allows federal funds to continue flowing to the Wuhan lab
Despite all the wasteful spending in this bill, there are some critical infrastructure projects for NY-24, which Congresswoman Tenney submitted after a rigorous review process. The projects Tenney successfully submitted and advocated for in NY-24 include:
$1.75 Million for the Town of Constantia Northshore Sewer Project
$1.75 Million for the City of Canandaigua Water Plant Project
$750,000 for the Town of Watertown Phase 1 Army Water Line (AWL) Pipeline Replacement Project
$2 Million for the Brickyard Road Tank and Transmission Main Improvements on behalf of the Canandaigua-Farmington Consolidated Water District
$3.5 Million for Town of Fayette Sewer District No. 1 Project
$1.75 Million for the Genesee County Water Security and Resilience—Prole Road Transmission Main Project
$1.6 Million for Keuka College’s Rural Community Outpatient Clinic
$700,000, for the Livingston County Regional Water & Wastewater Cybersecurity Improvement Project
$1 Million for the City of Watertown Water Quality Improvement Project
$2.1 Million for the Town of Wolcott Salt Storage Barn
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today introduced the recognizing Judea and Samaria Act to require all official United States documents and materials to use the term "Judea and Samaria" instead of the "West Bank."
Additional cosponsors of this legislation include Representatives Randy Weber (TX-14) and Anthony D’Esposito (NY-04).
The terms Judea and Samaria date back millennia to the ancient Kingdoms of Judah and Samaria. In 1967, after Israel’s Arab neighbors launched the Six-Day War, Israel reclaimed Judea and Samaria from Jordan. The term “West Bank” is used to delegitimize Israel’s historical claim to this land.
In November 2019, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that the United States would formally recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights and Judea and Samaria. Recently, Secretary of State Antony Blinken reversed this position, stating the Biden administration's disappointment in Israel's recent decision to expand its settlements in the region.
This condemnation comes even though under the Oslo Accords, a bilateral agreement between Israel and Palestinian representatives, Israel was granted full military and civilian control over the majority of Judea and Samaria.
"The Israeli people have an undeniable and indisputable historical and legal claim over Judea and Samaria, and at this critical moment in history, the United States must reaffirm this," said Congresswoman Tenney. "The misguided decision by the Biden administration to revoke the Pompeo Doctrine undermines our greatest ally in the Middle East. The recognizing Judea and Samaria Act requires all U.S. legal documents to use the rightful term "Judea and Samaria" to refer to this territory instead of the "West Bank." This bill reaffirms Israel's rightful claim to its territory. I remain committed to defending the integrity of the Jewish state and fully supporting Israel's sovereignty over Judea and Samaria."
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today, with Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), introduced the Promoting Affordable Childcare for Everyone (PACE) Act to update federal childcare incentives and improve access to affordable and high-quality childcare for American families.
The PACE Act would modernize the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit and enhance Dependent Care Flexible Spend Accounts (FSAs) to make the credit refundable and allow for annual updates to keep both incentives effective and provide more financial support for working parents.
“Families shouldn’t have to jeopardize their finances to enroll their children in quality childcare,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “The current federal childcare incentives have not kept up with the rising costs plaguing hardworking families and sometimes rival college tuitions. This pro-family bill updates federal childcare incentives, expands accessibility, and ensures lower-income and working families can provide quality care for their children. On top of that, our legislation will enable parents to go back to work, helping to combat our nationwide worker shortage.”
“It is hard to find quality, affordable child care – and when workers can’t afford child care, they can’t pursue work opportunities, take care of a loved one, or attend college," said Congressman Schneider. "We need to make child care less expensive, which is why I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan PACE Act with my colleague Rep. Claudia Tenney. This important legislation would directly provide working families with money in their pocket to put towards child and dependent care."
"Working families continue to struggle with the costs of child care," said Radha Mohan, Executive Director of the Early Care and Education Consortium. "A lack of access to high-quality, affordable child care means parents cannot participate in the workforce. The bipartisan PACE Act helps working families pay for child care by expanding and modernizing the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit and increasing the amount of pre-tax dollars families can set aside in Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts. Childcare providers applaud Reps. Tenney and Schneider for introducing this bill."
“The bipartisan Promoting Affordable Childcare for Everyone (PACE) Act is a crucial step to supporting families with young children while ensuring greater economic stability across the country,” said FFYF Executive Director Sarah Rittling. “The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) is the only provision of the tax code specifically created to help working parents afford child care. Together with expanded Dependent Care Assistance Plans (DCAP), enhancing the CDCTC and ensuring its refundability will help ease the burden of the cost of child care for families who truly need it most. We are so grateful for the bipartisan leadership of Reps. Tenney and Schneider, in coming together to introduce the PACE Act and helping America’s young children and their families find and afford the care they need."
“It is critical that federal tax incentives intended to support access to child care meet the needs of the nation’s workforce,” said Linda K. Smith, Director of the Early Childhood Initiative at the Bipartisan Policy Center. “We applaud Representatives Tenney (R-NY) and Schneider (D-IL) for their leadership in introducing bipartisan legislation that enhances the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) and increases the Dependent Care Assistance Plan cap to better support low- and middle-income working families. The PACE Act makes meaningful changes to help both businesses and working parents meet the demands of today’s economy.”
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC):
Makes the credit refundable in order to expand the credit’s reach to working parents.
Enhances the value of the credit for working parents through an increase in the credit rate.
Indexes the credit to inflation to ensure the value of the credit will not be eroded over time by rising childcare costs.
Dependent Care Flexible Spend Accounts (DCFSAs):
Increases the amount of pre-tax dollars parents can put into the accounts from $5,000 to $7,500.
Indexes the new cap to inflation so DCFSAs can keep pace with the cost of childcare.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), member of the Ways and Means Committee, today voted in favor of H.R. 7024, Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024.
This bill passed the House by a vote of 357-70.
“The Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024 is a pro-growth, pro-worker bill which ensures that hardworking Americans, family-owned farms, and small businesses that have suffered for far too long under Biden’s disastrous policies receive much-needed economic relief,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “This comprehensive bill was shaped by critical feedback from Main Street Americans across the country and New York’s 24th District. This package, focused on renewing President Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, will boost our economy and give manufacturers the tools they need to bolster our global competitiveness. Not only does passing this bill work to preserve over 7,300 jobs in New York, but it would also retain $622 million per year in R&D-related wages for our state. I am thrilled that this bill, which will increase desperately needed economic growth, passed the House today. By voting in favor of this bill, I reiterated my commitment to supporting fiscally conservative economic policies implemented by President Trump that deliver much-needed relief for the hardworking taxpayers of NY-24.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today joined Congressman Marc Molinaro (NY-19) and New York’s Republican Congressional Delegation in introducing a Congressional Resolution condemning New York Governor Kathy Hochul for defunding schools across New York State and prioritizing increased funding for migrants.
The Governor’s budget reduces funding for hundreds of schools across New York State while providing $2.4 billion to provide undocumented immigrants with legal assistance, housing, transportation, healthcare, and jobs. If Governor Hochul’s cuts to schools go through, schools could be forced to make up the difference by shuttering special education and disability services, cutting mental health resources, and more.
"Once again, Governor Kathy Hochul and Albany Democrats are putting illegal migrants and their progressive agenda ahead of New York’s children," said Congresswoman Tenney. "Hochul's misguided decision to cut critical funding from taxpayer-funded schools threatens students' learning, especially as they continue to recover from COVID-related learning loss and their access to valuable disability services and mental health resources. I stand with my New York Republican colleagues in demanding that she reevaluate her priorities and support our children over illegal migrants!"
"Governor Hochul is prioritizing undocumented immigrants over our children's education," said Congressman Molinaro. "Cutting funding for schools will inevitably jeopardize crucial disability services and mental health resources. We cannot let extreme left immigration policies ruin our children’s future. Governor Hochul: reverse course.”
"This self-inflicted New York City migrant crisis shouldn't be paid for on the backs of our children," said Congressman Garbarino. "Our children must come first. The needs of New Yorkers must be placed before those of illegal immigrants. I urge the Governor to change course and do what’s right for our kids and our state.”
“New York Democrats’ sanctuary policy that’s turning hotels, schools, federal parks, and senior living facilities into encampments for unvetted migrants from all over the world is unfair to surrounding communities and the taxpayers who are being forced to foot the bill," said Congresswoman Malliotakis. "Because of State and national Democrats’ reckless policies, the Governor is now slashing hundreds of millions of dollars from schools across the state, including over $130,000 from New York City. This crisis is unsustainable and unsafe for everyone involved, and the fact that our Mayor and Governor are cutting services from citizens to continue funding free giveaways to illegal immigrants is insane. Our children deserve better.”
“Governor Hochul’s misplaced priorities have placed the interests of migrants over Empire State students by slashing education funding while dedicating billions to those who crossed through our porous borders," said Congressman D’Esposito. "I am calling on Governor Hochul to immediately reverse course and stop punishing New York students for Joe Biden’s disastrous migrant crisis.”
“A politician’s budget proposal is indicative of that politician's values and it is clear from her budget that Governor Hochul values migrants over our kids," said Congressman LaLota. "As the husband of a teacher, father of three young girls, and a New York taxpayer, I’m appalled by the Governor’s heartlessness. Her decision to hurt our kids, especially in counties that voted against her, is Cuomo-esque bullying. The Governor is yet again putting politics before people and every New Yorker should be vocal against Hochul.”
