Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) released the following statement applauding important wins for New York’s 21st District in the just released FY2017 Omnibus Appropriations Bill:
“This government funding package includes many important provisions that I have fought for on behalf of my district, and I look forward to working in a bipartisan manner with my colleagues in the House to pass this legislation,” said Congresswoman Stefanik.
Defense and Support for Our Troops
“This legislation will help us begin to rebuild our military by providing a $15 billion funding increase. It also gives our brave men and women in uniform a deserved pay raise,” added Stefanik.”
Year Round Pell
“I am particularly pleased that this legislation includes language to expand access to Pell grants year round -- this is an issue I have been a leader on in the House of Representatives and this expansion will make a real difference in the lives of our students. Right now, Pell Grants are only available for qualifying students during the fall and spring semesters. By expanding the eligibility window to include summer classes and increasing the possible maximum Pell Grant award by 50 percent, we can make sure that low and middle income families have added flexibility to achieve a college degree.”
Combating the Opioid Epidemic
“As a Member of the Bipartisan Heroin Task Force, I am also pleased that this legislation contains a $650 million increase in funding to address the prevention and treatment of opioid and heroin use. Far too many families in our district are impacted by this tragic epidemic, and we must continue to work together at the federal, state and local level to find solutions.”
Great Lakes Restoration Initiative
“As a strong supporter of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and a leader in Congress on combating invasive species, I am also pleased this legislation includes $300,000,000 to support the GLRI. I will continue working with my colleagues in Congress to fully fund this important program that protects our ecological gems.”
LIHEAP
“The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides critical resources for the most vulnerable in our district, and this bill provides more than $3.39 billion in federal assistance for this important program.”
National Institutes of Health
“This legislation includes a $2 billion increase for the National Institutes of Health, which does critical work to research and develop new treatments. In a 21st Century healthcare system, we must prioritize biomedical research so we can finally tackle the most pressing health issues facing our nation.”
NEA
“As the Co-Chair of the Congressional STEAM Caucus, I am pleased that this bill includes additional funding for the NEA. The Arts strengthens our communities and helps drive our local economies, and I will continue to support funding for the arts in Congress.
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