Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) unveiled her agriculture plan and tax plan that work to support small and locally owned businesses and family farms across New York’s 24th District.
Earlier this month, Tenney visited multiple family farms and local businesses in Cayuga County and Wayne County to discuss their concerns and the Congresswoman’s efforts in Congress to support our farming and business community. To outline her work to support our NY-24 producers and employers, Tenney unveiled her three-pillar agriculture plan and tax plan.
Her agriculture plan focuses on supporting NY-24 specialty crops, bolstering New York’s dairy industry, and protecting American farmland from foreign interests. Her tax plan centers around her work on the House Ways and Means Committee to build on the successes of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, revitalize our communities, support our families, and ensure essential taxpayer protections.
“Small businesses and family-owned farms will always be the backbone of NY-24’s economy,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “I’ve toured numerous small businesses and farms across the district to learn more about their daily operations and the challenges they face. It is imperative that we put forward policies in Congress that address these concerns and deliver lasting results for our community. Today, I released my agriculture plan and tax plan to highlight my efforts to unleash the potential of our rural communities and to give farmers, producers, and small business owners the certainty and opportunities they need to succeed.”
To view Tenney’s full Agriculture plan, click here.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) introduced the Fostering Innovation and Research to Strengthen Tomorrow (FIRST) Act, to enhance the research and development (R&D) tax credit for small businesses and startups, allowing them to create jobs and boost American innovation.
“Now more than ever, the United States must work to out-compete and out-innovate our adversaries by investing in proven policies like the R&D tax credit,” said Congresswoman Tenney.
“Once a leader in promoting R&D, the United States has recently fallen behind other countries around the world who are offering greater R&D incentives. China, in particular, has chosen to invest heavily in R&D by providing a “super deduction” for R&D expenses. By enhancing the R&D tax credit, we can help small businesses and entrepreneurs across America invest in innovation that will unleash economic growth and create jobs on American soil. The FIRST Act is a crucial step in boosting American innovation and advancing our competitiveness on the world stage, reinforcing our nation’s position as the economic powerhouse of the 21st century.”
“Manufacturers in the United States perform more than half of all private-sector research and development in the nation, driving more innovation than any other sector," said Chris Netram, Managing Vice President, Policy, at the National Association of Manufacturers. "The Fostering Innovation and Research to Strengthen Tomorrow Act recognizes the importance of R&D in creating well-paying U.S. jobs and supporting innovation. We thank Rep. Tenney for her leadership in ensuring that manufacturers in the U.S. continue to be the world’s leading innovators.”
Specifically, this bill would:
Increase the "Traditional" Credit to 40 Percent: Established companies would see their current traditional credit rate, determined by a complex formula, boosted from 20 percent to 40 percent of the increase in R&D spending.
Raise the Alternative Simplified Credit (ASC) to 28 Percent: The existing ASC rate, calculated through a simpler formula, would be raised from 14 percent to 28 percent of the increase in R&D spending.
Significantly Enhance the Credit for Firms with Limited Research History to 14 Percent: Companies without any U.S. research track record in the past three years would experience a more than twofold increase in the credit from 6 percent to 14 percent of R&D spending.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) recently cosponsored H.R. 841, the Sergeant Gary Beikarch Medal of Honor Act. This legislation, named after Rochester native Gary Beikarch, guarantees that the widows of Medal of Honor recipients are eligible for the complete benefits earned by their spouses.
This bill was introduced in the House by Congressman Joe Morelle (D-NY). Additional co-sponsors include Reps. Gwen Moore (D-WI) and Andre Carson (D-IN).
Currently, spouses of Medal of Honor (MOH) recipients face a limitation where they can only receive either the MOH pension or the Dependent Indemnity Compensation (DIC), but not both. This provision not only deprives military families of their rightful benefits but also adds to their financial burdens, adding to the already challenging emotional circumstances they face. This legislation seeks to amend the current law, enabling surviving spouses of MOH recipients to receive all the benefits they qualify for without being forced to choose between the two options.
“America’s Medal of Honor Recipients, and their families, have put so much on the line to defend our great Nation and safeguard our freedoms,” said Congresswoman Claudia Tenney. “It is only right that we ensure their surviving families receive the benefits they have earned and fully deserve. I am inspired by the Beikirch family's dedication to this issue and thank them for working to support surviving spouses nationwide. I am honored to join Congressman Morelle in this fight to get this legislation across the finish line and ensure our Medal of Honor spouses receive the benefits they deserve.”
“Medal of Honor recipients are among the most selfless, courageous, and heroic men and women who serve our armed forces,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “We have a duty to honor their profound service and sacrifice by ensuring their families receive the full benefits they deserve. I am deeply grateful to the Beikirch family for bringing this issue to my attention—it is my hope that this legislation will right a longstanding wrong and bring peace of mind to surviving spouses across the country. I look forward to working with Congresswoman Tenney and our colleagues to swiftly pass it into law.”
“Speaking personally from the perspective of my family we are so grateful for Congresswoman Claudia Tenney joining to work alongside Congressman Joe Morelle in making this a bipartisan effort in moving this bill along. This important piece of legislation needs to be passed not only because it is a benefit that my father more than earned but also because it will give us the peace of mind that my mother will be cared for in the way my father would have wanted.
My mother's care was his top priority in his last days and the entire Beikirch family thanks Congressman Morelle and Congresswoman Tenney for advocating to right this wrong not only for us but all future Medal of Honor recipients' spouses to come. The families of our best and bravest should not have to choose between two benefits that were so courageously earned and my father would be honored to have his name on a piece of legislation that protects not only his but also other Medal of Honor recipient's families that are left behind,” said Stephanie Beikirch, daughter of Sgt. Gary Beikirch.
“I would like to thank Congressman Morelle and Congresswoman Tenney for their time and attention on this bill. The absolute last people in the country who should be struggling to keep their homes are the widows of our Medal of Honor Recipients. Gary Beikirch was a mentor and father figure to me and his only concern before he died, probably the only thing he ever asked for in his entire adult life was that his family be cared for after he’s gone. That’s a small price to thank someone who has given everything for this country. I hope this bill moves quickly so that relief can be provided to these deserving widows,” said Monroe County Veterans Services Director Nick Stefanovic.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24), which passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 219-210. This legislation includes 20 of Congresswoman Tenney’s amendments aimed to strengthen U.S. national security and hold America’s adversaries accountable.
“The National Defense Authorization Act is a critical investment in our national security, our servicemembers, and their families,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “This year's NDAA takes significant strides in modernizing our armed forces, bolstering our military readiness, and enhancing our defense capabilities. Importantly, this bill reins in the Biden administration’s “woke” policies that are actively harming military readiness, such as Green New Deal mandates, unnecessary Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) officers, and wasting taxpayer dollars on sex reassignment surgeries and gender hormone treatments. This bill also bans funding for drag shows or Drag Queen Story Hour and implements important oversight measures over our aid to Ukraine.”
“Additionally, the FY24 NDAA includes the largest salary increase for our servicemen and servicewomen in the last 20 years at 5.2%. This reaffirms our commitment to our service members and their families and ensures they have the resources they need to carry out their missions effectively. I was disappointed to see my Democratic colleague’s decision to betray the longstanding tradition of strong bipartisan support for the NDAA and our military.”
“Despite the Democrats’ attempts to block this important legislation, House Republicans continue to deliver on our commitment to America. I will continue to advocate for all our servicemembers and their families, especially those stationed at Fort Drum, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, and throughout New York’s 24th Congressional District. The passage of the FY24 NDAA through the House demonstrates House Republicans’ unwavering commitment to national security, our servicemembers, and the defense of our great nation. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure its swift passage into law and give our Armed Forces the resources they need to continue to defend and protect our freedom!”
Key Provisions in the FY24 NDAA
Provides $886.3 billion for our national defense, complying with the caps set by the Fiscal Responsibility Act.
Authorizes a 5.2% pay increase for service members and bonuses for junior enlistees due to Bidenflation
Reaffirms the House’s support for Fort Drum soldiers receiving cold weather pay.
Bans Critical Race Theory and woke DEI policies in the military.
Eliminates Green New Deal climate change mandates and regulations.
Continues the prohibition against adverse actions due to refusal to take the COVID-19 vaccine and creates a process for service members’ reinstatement.
Prohibits funding for drag shows or Drag Queen Story Hour
Authorizes $113 million over the budget request for the construction of new childcare centers.
Implements important oversight measures over security aid to Ukraine and requires a strategic plan before any new aid is available.
As one of the most active and effective Members of Congress, Tenney had 20 amendments included in the FY24 NDAA, the second-most of any Member.
Background on Tenney’s Amendments Included in Bill:
Ending Taxpayer Funding for Gender Transition Surgeries: Prohibits TRICARE from covering and the Department of Defense from furnishing sex reassignment surgeries and gender hormone treatments for transgender individuals.
UAVs at Military Bases: Requires a report on the threat of aerial drones and unmanned aircraft to United States national security and an assessment of the unmanned traffic management systems of every military base and installation (within and outside the United States) to determine whether the base or installation is adequately equipped to detect, disable, and disarm hostile or unidentified unmanned aerial systems.
CENTCOM Capability Gap Report: Requires a report on CENTCOM capabilities and any capability gaps in carrying out CENTCOM's responsibilities, as well as recommendations to address any capability gaps.
Report on Dissuading Allies from Purchasing Weapons from our Adversaries: Requires a report by the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, on U.S. efforts to dissuade allies from purchasing Russian and Chinese weapons.
Prohibiting Iranian Funding: Prohibits any funds authorized by the NDAA from going to any entity owned or controlled by the Iranian government or on relevant blacklists.
Providing Precision Guided Missiles (PGMs) to Israel: Revised Requires a DOD assessment of the precision-guided munitions Israel needs in the event of a conflict with regional actors. Would extend existing authorities to provide Israel with such munitions in the event of an emergency.
Strategy on Counter-Fentanyl Operations: Requires the Secretary of Defense to develop a strategy to disrupt fentanyl trafficking, and report to Congress on efforts to enhance counter-fentanyl cooperation with Mexico.
Protecting Our Aerial Refueling Tankers: Prohibits the decommissioning of any KC-135 Stratotankers in Fiscal Year 2024.
Combatting Iranian Killer Drone: Requires the Secretary of Defense to report on the status of U.S.-Israel cooperation on efforts to counter threats by Iran in the form of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), including loitering munitions, otherwise known as "suicide" and "kamikaze" drones.
Prohibits COVID Vaccine Status Discrimination: Prohibits any adverse actions against cadets or midshipmen based on their COVID-19 vaccination status. Further, states that an individual may not be denied admission at a service academy based on their COVID-19 vaccination status.
Reporting on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Threat to Europe: Adds a description of the threat posed by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to Europe to the Annual Report on Military Power of Iran.
Protecting U.S. RDT&E Funding from China and Russia: Adds U.S. entities that partner with universities in China and Russia that maintain partnerships with their military or intelligence services to a DoD list of U.S. universities that are engaged in malign activities. Prohibits DoD RDT&E funding from going to any entity on that list.
Report on pro-BDS Goods Sold on Military Bases: Requires DOD to submit to Congress a report on whether any products sold at commissary or exchange stores in fiscal years 2022 or 2023 were produced by companies that have participated in a boycott action against the State of Israel.
Report on Growing Cooperation Between Iran and China: Requires the Secretary of Defense to include in their annual report on Military and Security Developments Involving the People's Republic of China information on the PRC's burgeoning relationship with the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Extends COVID Vaccine Protections to the Coast Guard: Amends service reinstatement and protection provisions in the FY2024 NDAA for service members who refused Covid vaccination to also include members of the Coast Guard.
Ending DOD’s Radical Abortion Policy: Prohibits the Secretary of Defense from paying for or reimbursing expenses relating to abortion services.
Prohibiting “Woke” Flags on Government Buildings: Codifies Trump admin guidance to prohibit the display of unapproved flags.
End Warrantless Surveillance of Americans: The amendment would prevent DOD from purchasing data that would otherwise require a warrant, court order, or subpoena. This applies to data inside the United States.
Prohibiting Contracting with Entities That Support BDS: Prohibits the Department of Defense from entering into contracts with entities that engaged in a boycott of the State of Israel.
Report on Chinese-Russian-Iranian Ties:Expands the annual China Military Power Report to include China's security cooperation with Iran and Russia.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today announced the seventh segment of her monthly webinar series that will focus on how her office can assist veterans with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
This webinar is open to all constituents and aims to provide assistance with a wide range of veteran- related matters. It will cover key topics such as how to replace lost or damaged medals, solve VA medical issues, and other veteran-related casework issues.
Those interested in attending this webinar should RSVP by emailing NY24.RSVP@mail.house.gov. Participants who register in advance will receive a link to the Zoom meeting on the morning of the event.
This webinar is being hosted as part of 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. This is the seventh webinar Tenney’s office has hosted this year. Recordings of past webinars can be found on Tenney’s website here.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) raised serious concerns following the release of a congressional letter calling for snapback sanctions on Iran only after the rogue regime enriches uranium beyond 90 percent, which would be at least 24 times the limit allowed under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). In her statement, Tenney argues this would be too little, too late, and that snapback should be triggered immediately in response to Iran’s persistent non-compliance with its commitments.
“Signaling to the Islamic Republic of Iran that it should only face consequences for its reckless nuclear extortion if it reaches the dangerous threshold of 90 percent weapons-grade nuclear enrichment is deeply concerning,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Iran is already enriching uranium at 24 times the limit allowed by the JCPOA – the time for action is now, not after Iran blows past the critical benchmark of achieving weapons-grade enriched uranium. Threatening snapback only after Iran reaches the 90 percent threshold also creates a new and dangerous standard that Iranian enrichment up to 89.9 percent is somehow acceptable. Let me be clear: it is absolutely not acceptable. We need to stop moving the goalposts and start increasing the pressure. The time for snapback is now.”
Tenney recently led a bipartisan letter with Representative Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) encouraging the leaders of the United Kingdom, France, and Germany (E3) to initiate snapback sanctions on Iran under United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2231. Tenney also published an op-ed in The Jerusalem Post condemning any attempts to wait until Iran enriches to 90 percent to initiate snapback sanctions.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) and Senator Joni Ernst introduced a bicameral resolution to designate the week including June 23, as National Women’s Sports Week.
The resolution marks the 50th anniversary of the passage of Title IX on June 23, 1972, and celebrates the growth and success of women’s sports.
Additional co-sponsors of the legislation include Senators Roger Wicker (R-MS), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), James Lankford (R-OK), Rick Scott (R-FL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Katie Britt (R-AL), Mike Braun (R-IN), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Representatives Ralph Norman (R-SC), Nancy Mace (R-SC), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Debbie Lesko (R-AZ), Randy Weber (R-TX), Mary Miller (R-IL).
National Women’s Sports Week recognizes female athletes — past, present, and future — for their participation and achievement in sports. It celebrates the contributions of individual female athletes in the United States, especially since the passage of Title IX in 1972, and honors the coaches and parents who support female athletes.
The resolution also calls on Congress to protect equal access to athletic opportunities for female athletes.
June 23, marks the 50th anniversary of the passage of Title IX, federal legislation that prohibits recipients of federal funding from discriminating based on sex. Title IX opened athletic opportunities for women and girls, guaranteeing them the right to equal athletic opportunities.
Since the adoption of Title IX, there has been a 545-percent increase in the percentage of women playing college sports and a 990-percent increase in the percentage of women playing high school sports.
“At a time when women’s sports are under attack, we must celebrate the remarkable progress we have made since the passage of Title IX and stand united to protect the future ability of women and girls to compete fairly in sports,” said Congresswoman Tenney.
“I am honored to join Senator Joni Ernst in introducing a bicameral resolution that supports the designation of an official 'National Women's Sports Week.' As we celebrate this week, we reaffirm the importance of protecting Title IX and recognize the countless benefits that come from women’s active participation in sports. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution and join us in celebrating National Women's Sports Week. Together, we can continue to uplift and inspire the next generation of female athletes, ensuring a bright future for women's sports across our great nation.”
“We cannot and will not allow our daughters to be erased,” said Senator Ernst. “Doors that were opened over 50 years ago are being slammed in the faces of girls across the country because of the progressive left’s radical gender ideology. I’m proud to work with Rep. Tenney to recognize the achievements of female athletes during National Women’s Sports Week and will continue standing arm in arm with Riley Gaines, Paula Scanlan, Payton McNabb, and countless others in their fight to safeguard life-changing opportunities for women and girls.”
"Independent Women's Forum conceived of National Women's Sports Week because we see how the importance of female athletics is being denigrated in our culture. During a recent Senate Judiciary hearing, Senator Durbin scoffed at the idea that anyone should be concerned that something as trivial as "women's field hockey" would be sacrificed. He may not think so, but we know that female athletes matter. That opportunities for women to strive and succeed matter. We know that women's sports are worth fighting to preserve. Thank you Senator Joni Ernst and Representative Claudia Tenney for being such leaders in standing up on behalf of the women and girls competing today, and future generations of female athletes," said Carrie Lukas, Independent Women's Forum President.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) this week voted in favor of two pieces of legislation that work to preemptively block any future attempts from the Biden administration to restrict the use of gas stoves or otherwise limit consumer choice.
H.R. 1615, the Gas Stove Protection and Freedom Act, passed the House by a vote of 248-180. This bill would prohibit the Consumer Product Safety Commission from using federal funds to regulate a gas stove ban under the pretense that they are “hazardous products.”
H.R. 1640, the Save Our Stoves Act, passed the House by a vote of 249-181. This legislation would stop the Energy Department from finalizing a rule that sets energy conservation standards for household appliances.
“Nearly 46% of New York households rely on natural gas to fuel their cooking appliances, power their electricity, and run their home heating systems,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Earlier this year, Kathy Hochul’s $229 billion dollar budget made New York the first state in the nation to ban gas stoves.
Now, under the Biden administration, federal agencies are potentially exploring similar policies in what would be an unprecedented and inappropriate expansion of federal power. Federal bureaucrats have no right telling American consumers what kind of stoves they can use, and this week, House Republicans made that abundantly clear.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today voted in favor of H.J. Res. 44, a resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives relating to "Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached 'Stabilizing Braces."
This legislation, which Tenney cosponsored, passed the House by a vote of 219-210.
The stabilizing brace was invented in 2012 to assist disabled veterans that had difficulty controlling their firearms. After its creation, the brace was sent to the ATF for review to ensure that the brace did not change the firearm’s classification under federal law.
Under the Obama administration, the ATF ruled that adding a stabilizing brace to a firearm would not change its classification under federal law. However, now the Biden administration’s radical and weaponized ATF has reversed this longstanding policy in a blatantly politicized policy change that directly targets law-abiding gun and stabilizing brace owners.
The proposed regulation, known as Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached Stabilizing Braces, seeks to redefine pistols equipped with stabilizing brace attachments as short-barreled rifles (SBRs). This reclassification would impact an estimated 10-40 million Americans, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service.
Stabilizing braces help individuals, particularly those with disabilities, safely and securely handle their firearms. By redefining pistols with stabilizing braces as SBRs, they would need to be registered with the ATF in addition to the application of expensive and onerous regulations.
Failure to comply with these new requirements would carry penalties of up to 10 years in prison and substantial fines. Stabilizing brace owners who do not register their pistol with a stabilizing brace would be required to either render their firearm inoperable, surrender it to the ATF, or detach the brace in a manner that prevents reattachment.
“The Biden administration’s pistol brace rule threatens to turn veterans and responsible, law-abiding gun owners into felons overnight,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “By passing this disapproval resolution, House Republicans are taking decisive action to prevent the Biden administration's overreach and infringement on the constitutional rights of all Americans, particularly the rights of our disabled veterans. This crucial disapproval resolution will work to prevent the Biden administration from unjustly radicalizing the ATF and turning lawful gun owners into felons by redefining pistols into SBRs.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) voted in favor of H.R. 3746, the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023. This agreement reins in the Biden administration’s out-of-control spending, protects vital services for our nation’s seniors, veterans, and military personnel, defends small businesses and hardworking families from aggressive IRS overreach, and addresses our nation’s worker shortage. This legislation passed the House by a vote of 314-117.
"The Fiscal Responsibility Act is the single largest deficit reduction package in our nation’s history. It will deliver billions in immediate savings and takes concrete steps to reduce our spending and hold Joe Biden accountable. It is an important part of restoring fiscal responsibility and accountability in Washington,” said Congresswoman Claudia Tenney.
“This bill includes the largest recession of misappropriated funds ever, clawing back billions of dollars from wasteful Democrat programs and returning it to the American people. This bill also freezes non-defense discretionary spending for 2023 and limits future spending to 1% growth, the first time Congress has curbed and capped non-defense discretionary federal spending at this level. The bill also reclaims unspent COVID funds, eliminates funding for Joe Biden’s new army of IRS auditors, zeros out taxpayer funding to China through the Global Health Fund, and implements new work requirements for federal benefits to boost employment and enhance accountability.”
“Joe Biden’s excessive spending and irresponsible policies have put our nation on the brink of an unprecedented economic crisis. By implementing these spending cuts and achieving these important fiscal reforms, we are holding the White House and Senate Democrats accountable. There is much more work to be done, and this legislation marks the start of the process, not the end of it. House Republicans will continue to lead the way to limit out-of-control spending, save taxpayer dollars, reduce taxes, and grow our economy."
Specifically, the Fiscal Responsibility Act will:
Reduce annual non-defense discretionary spending below Fiscal Year 2023 levels, the first discretionary spending cut in 11 years. Importantly, the bill includes an immediate 11% cut on the woke and weaponized bureaucracy while increasing funds for national defense, veterans, and border security. This amounts to the largest cut in non-defense discretionary funding in history. It also caps the growth of non-defense discretionary federal spending at 1% annually for the next five years;
Implement the most significant reforms in two decades to SNAP and TANF to boost work requirements for these programs, save taxpayer money, stimulate economic growth, and lift Americans out of poverty;
Eliminate $400 million from the CDC's "Global Health Fund," which allocates taxpayer funds to China and other programs, making it the largest rescission package in history;
Establish the first-ever statutory Administrative Pay-Go, ensuring President Biden and all future presidents are finally responsible for the full cost of their executive actions;
Expedite and reduce costs for energy and infrastructure projects through the first substantial reform to NEPA since 1982;
Eliminate the funding for new IRS auditors in the total FY24 staffing request;
End the outrageous three-year COVID-19 halt to student loan payments, resulting in an estimated monthly savings of almost $5 billion for taxpayers;
Impose a funding cap of 99% for any Continuing Resolution (CR) to compel Congress to finally do its job and ensure a functional appropriations process that includes marking up and passing all required 12 appropriations bills;
Secure full funding for critical veterans programs and national defense priorities while safeguarding Social Security and Medicare; and
Reject all of President Biden's proposed $5 trillion in new tax increases, government mandates, and federal programs.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) announced the fifth installment of her monthly webinar series, which is focused on highlighting services and resources at the federal level available to constituents.
The next webinar will focus on the federal grant process, providing individuals and organizations with an overview of how to search for and apply for federal grant opportunities. The webinar is open to all constituents.
Those interested in attending this webinar should RSVP by emailing NY24.RSVP@mail.house.gov. Participants who register in advance will receive a link to the Zoom meeting on the morning of the event.
This webinar is being hosted as part of 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. This is the fifth webinar Tenney’s office has hosted this year. Recordings of past webinars can be found on Tenney’s website here.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), a member of the Ways and Means Committee, voted in favor of H.R. 1163, the Protecting Taxpayers and Victims of Unemployment Fraud Act. This bill provides states with incentives to investigate and recover fraudulent unemployment insurance payments while working to fight and prevent future fraud.
Tenney was an original cosponsor of this legislation and supported its passage in the House Ways and Means Committee when it was considered earlier this year. The bill passed the House by a vote of 230-200. Tenney spoke on the House floor in support of this legislation earlier today. You can watch her remarks here.
Tenney has led the charge to hold New York accountable for its pandemic-era fraud, waste, and abuse. After a report by the New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli found rampant Unemployment Insurance fraud totaling $11 billion, Tenney sent a letter to New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli expressing concerns over his office’s decision to delay key findings related to the audit until after New York’s 2022 gubernatorial election between Kathy Hochul and Lee Zeldin.
“The total cost of improper unemployment insurance payments across our country has reached at least $191 billion, with some experts estimating it as high as $400 billion,” said Congresswoman Claudia Tenney. “New York alone accounts for $11 billion in fraudulent charges. Countless constituents contacted my office to notify us of receiving unemployment forms they hadn’t requested and dealing with the ramifications of having their identity stolen to obtain fraudulent funds. The Protecting Taxpayers and Victims of Unemployment Fraud Act moves us one important step closer to recovering lost taxpayer dollars, holding fraudsters accountable, and putting in place a system to protect against future fraud.”
Specifically, the Protecting Taxpayers and Victims of Unemployment Fraud Act:
Allows states to retain 25% of recovered fraudulent federal funds.
Allows states to use recovery funds to improve UI program integrity and fraud prevention.
Allows states to retain five percent of state UI overpayments recovered upon meeting data matching integrity conditions and dedicating such funds to preventing future fraud.
Extends the statute of limitations for criminal charges or civil actions for prosecuting fraud from five to ten years.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), a member of the Ways and Means Committee, joined her colleagues in reintroducing H.R. 3029, the Primary Care Enhancement Act. This bipartisan legislation is designed to expand access to direct primary care (DPC).
Additional co-leads include Representatives Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), and Brad Schneider (D-IL).
The legislation would clarify provisions of the Internal Revenue Code to enable individuals with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) to use those funds to access DPC. This healthcare delivery model provides essential high-quality primary care at a lower cost for individuals of all ages and incomes across the United States.
“Direct Primary Care (DPC) is an innovative monthly membership-based payment plan that helps reduce health care costs while providing high-quality primary care to patients,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “DPC is a popular option for upstate New Yorkers and promotes a strong and trusting relationship between patients and their health care providers. The bipartisan Primary Care Enhancement Act removes the tax barrier that inhibits patients with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) from reaping the benefits of DPC. I will always be a champion for legislation that promotes health care flexibility and affordability.”
“I am proud to collaborate with my colleagues on the Ways & Means Committee to introduce this bipartisan legislation to expand access to affordable primary care. As a former business owner that provided health insurance for over 150 employees, I know that innovative care delivery models like direct primary care put patients in charge of their health, improve outcomes, and reduce costs for businesses and employees. Unfortunately, the Internal Revenue Service’s interpretation of current tax law prevents individuals with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) from accessing direct primary care, even when their colleagues without HSAs can do so. I am thankful for my colleagues’ support of this bipartisan legislation to expand access to direct primary care,” said Congressman Smucker.
Background:
DPC is a healthcare delivery model that reduces costs and improves access to primary care. Employers report up to 20% savings on the total cost of care for their employees by providing better health care up front in the primary care setting, reducing unnecessary hospital and specialty care, and drastically reducing administrative expenses.
More than twenty states have passed laws defining DPC care as a medical service and not a health insurance plan. Likewise, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) rules on Essential Health Benefits clearly state that DPC arrangements are medical services, not health insurance.
Currently, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) prohibits individuals with HSAs from funding their accounts if they have a DPC arrangement. Furthermore, individuals cannot use their existing HSA dollars to pay for the monthly or annual DPC fees as qualified medical expenses.
Primary Care Enhancement Act:
The Primary Care Enhancement Act clarifies two provisions in the Internal Revenue Code that currently treat these innovative payment arrangements for employees and individuals as health insurance rather than medical services. The bill would allow patients using DPC to contribute to their HSAs and use HSA funds to pay for direct primary care fees.
The Primary Care Enhancement Act has twice been favorably reported out of the Ways & Means Committee with bipartisan support in prior Congresses.
Senate companion legislation, S.628, is sponsored by Sens. Bill Cassidy, Jeanne Shaheen, Tim Scott, and Mark Kelly.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) announced today her May mobile office hours. During these hours, constituents can receive one-on-one assistance from Tenney’s team of expert caseworkers on issues regarding federal agencies such as the Veterans Administration, Social Security Administration, Internal Revenue Service, or Passport Agency.
If you are interested in attending any of these mobile office hours, please schedule an appointment by contacting Tenney’s District Office at (315) 236-7088 or walk in at any time to receive assistance. Please note, scheduling an appointment ahead of time will allow for an expedited casework experience.
In addition to Tenney’s mobile office hours during the month of May, Tenney maintains three full-time offices in Lockport, Victor, and Oswego, with regular satellite hours in Watertown every Tuesday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. The Lockport (716-514-5130), Victor (585-869-2060), and Oswego (315-236-7088) offices are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additional information on casework services and office locations can be found at tenney.house.gov.
Mobile office hours will be available at the following times and locations:
County: Genesee Date: Wednesday, May 10 Time: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Place: Genesee County Office Building Address: 7 Court St., Batavia, NY 14020
Photo: File photo of Claudia Tenney by Howard Owens
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), co-chair of the House Election Integrity Caucus today introduced the Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act to defund President Biden’s overreaching executive order that threatens the safety and security of American elections. This legislation ensures American elections are transparent by prohibiting federal agencies from engaging in partisan voter operations at taxpayer expense.
Reps. Bill Posey (R-FL), Randy Weber (R-TX), and Andrew Clyde (R-GA) co-sponsored the House version of this bill, while the Senate version was introduced by Senator Tedd Budd (R-NC).
Specifically, this bill would prohibit actions ordered under President Biden’s Executive Order (EO) 14019 from being initiated by federal agencies. This would prevent federal agencies from entering into agreements with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to use their power, influence, resources, and federal funding to conduct voter registration and other mobilization activities. America’s civil service should be non-partisan and federal agencies should not be using taxpayer funds to actively engage in partisan Get Out The Vote operations that have nothing to do with their core missions.
“President Biden’s EO 14019 allows the federal government to use its power and your taxpayer dollars to influence our elections,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “The Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act ensures that federal agencies remain non-partisan and are not engaging in partisan voter registration and mobilization efforts on the taxpayer dime. As the Election Integrity Caucus co-chair, it is my privilege to introduce this legislation to restore transparency and confidence in our democratic process, while keeping federal bureaucrats and the swamp from deliberately tipping the balance of our elections.”
The legislation prohibits the use of federal funding to carry out activities directed under EO 14019, including:
Soliciting or entering into an agreement with a third-party group to conduct voter registration or voter mobilization activities on federal property anywhere in the country, or on any federal agency website;
Implementing strategic plans to carry out activities directed under EO 14019 until at least 180 days after submitting to Congress a copy of the plan, unless those activities are required under federal law; and
Engaging in any voter registration activities outlined in Section 7 of the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA), until at least 180 days after providing Congress a copy of the agencies’ strategic plan to do so under EO 14019, or in the case of those agencies that did not create a strategic plan under EO 14019, only after they have certified to Congress that no such plan exists.
Tenney is the founder and co-chair of the House Election Integrity Caucus in Congress. With more than 60 members, the Caucus is dedicated to preserving the sanctity of our elections and boosting confidence in the democratic process.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) voted in favor of H.R. 734, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act of 2023. The legislation ensures that biological females are not forced to compete against biological men in women's competitive sports funded through Title IX.
Tenney was an original cosponsor of this legislation and introduced this bill on February 1, 2023, on behalf of the bill’s original lead sponsor, Congressman Greg Steube (R-FL). This bill passed the House by a vote of 219-203.
“On National Girls and Women in Sports Day this February, I walked up the Capitol steps alongside tremendous female athletes to introduce the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Today, House Republicans kept yet another commitment to the American people by voting to pass this commonsense bill. Across the country, the Biden administration is allowing, even encouraging, biological men to participate in women’s sports. This is fundamentally unfair and diminishes equal opportunities for women in athletics, which we fought for decades to achieve. By passing this bill, we are protecting opportunities for female athletes to train, compete, and thrive.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) voted to override President Biden’s veto of H.J. Res. 27, a bipartisan resolution to overturn the Administration’s deeply flawed and burdensome “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule. The legislation passed by a vote of 227-196 but failed to achieve the two-thirds necessary for a veto override.
President Biden’s overly broad WOTUS rule would redefine the Environmental Protection Agency’s definition of a “navigable” waterway to include small seasonal streams, small ponds, and even large amounts of groundwater. This vague and overreaching rule would drastically expand the government’s authority, increasing its power over farmers and producers throughout New York’s 24th Congressional District.
In January, Tenney and 195 House Republicans sent a letter to the Biden administration calling on it to reconsider this damaging rule. Tenney was also an original co-sponsor of H.J. Res. 27, which passed the House in February and the Senate in March, both with bipartisan support. The resolution, passed under the Congressional Review Act, would nullify Biden’s WOTUS rule. President Biden vetoed the resolution earlier this month.
"With his veto of H.J. Res. 27, President Biden proved once again that he continues to prioritize far-left activists over our nation's farmers and landowners," said Congresswoman Tenney. "Earlier this month as part of my Farm Bill Listening Tour, I met with farmers and producers across New York’s 24th District, who expressed concerns that Biden's WOTUS rule was overly broad and poorly defined. Our region’s farmers are among the best stewards of our natural environment, and they should be viewed as important partners in conversation efforts. Instead, this bill targets them with even more regulations, which are overly burdensome and will drive up costs at a time of already soaring inflation.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) joined Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) in introducing the Protect Local Taxpayers Act in response to Governor Kathy Hochul’s Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Proposal, which would keep $625 million in Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) that have been shared with New York counties since 2011. Congressman Brandon Williams (NY-22) is also an original cosponsor of this bill.
New York State is one of the only states in the nation to require counties to pay a significant portion of the state’s non-federal matching share of its Medicaid program. This costs local counties in New York up to $7.6 billion per year, resulting in county governments imposing some of the highest property taxes in the country and stressing other critical local services.
The Protect Local Taxpayers Act would offer a straightforward fix by ensuring that FMAP funds are directed, as intended by Congress, to our state’s counties to cover their portion of Medicaid expenses. Since New York counties face a massive obligation under New York’s Medicaid program, this legislation will ensure they are never left with a significant and harmful budgetary impact, such as the one that would be caused by Kathy Hochul's irresponsible 2024 budget.
“As a result of one-party Democrat rule in Albany, New York State has among the highest taxes in the country,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “One reason upstate New York families face such high costs is that our local counties are forced to absorb and subsidize the soaring cost of New York’s Medicaid program. Enough is enough! I’m honored to join the Protect Local Taxpayer Act, which will prevent state governments like ours from further shifting our bloated state Medicaid expenses onto our local county governments, and then refusing to reimburse them for a portion of the costs. Albany should be focused on supporting our local communities, not taking more of their money to subsidize far-left priorities.”
“Governor Hochul’s budget proposal would force rural counties like the ones I represent in Western New York and the Southern Tier into doomsday decision-making, causing unnecessary panic among the people who rely on Medicaid services,” said Congressman Langworthy. “It is well past time to get fiscal sanity back into our state government, and I remain laser-focused on protecting the hardworking taxpayers who feel disenfranchised by state leadership.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) announced federal grant and loan programs available to assist Western New York families, farms, and small businesses following the devastating Winter Storm Elliott that hit the region in December 2022. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the availability of grants to assist residents in need of home repairs following the severe storm. The Small Business Association (SBA) is also offering federal disaster loans for families, businesses, and farms with uninsured or under-insured losses due to the storm.
To qualify for the USDA grant, homes must be in the presidentially declared disaster areas in Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Jefferson, Lewis, Niagara, Oneida, Oswego, St. Lawrence, and Wyoming Counties. The Rural Disaster Home Repair Grant Programoffers up to $40,675 in assistance to repair storm-damaged homes. More information on this program is available here.
The funding from the SBA loan is available for families and businesses in Erie, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Genesee, Niagara, and Wyoming counties. As of early April, the SBA has approved over $5.8 million in disaster loans for 195 businesses and residents across Western New York. The deadline to apply for this loan is April 28, 2023. More information is available here.
“Winter Storm Elliott devastated Western New York, causing severe damage to family homes, farms, and small businesses in addition to taking the lives of nearly 70 of our neighbors,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “These federal loans and grant programs will assist our community as we rebuild from this severe storm. If you have questions while applying for these programs, please call my district office at (716) 514-5130 for additional information.”
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, introduced the New Markets Tax Credit Extension (NMTC) Act of 2023. This bipartisan legislation would make the NMTC permanent, index the allocation to inflation in future years, and exempt NMTC investments from the Alternative Minimum Tax.
Tenney led this piece of legislation alongside Rep. Kelly (R-PA), Rep. Sewell (D-AL), and Rep. Davis (D-IL). Additional cosponsors include Rep. Miller (R-WV), Rep. Ferguson (R-GA), Rep. Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Rep. Schweikert (R-AZ), Rep. Smucker (R-PA), Rep. Wenstrup (R-OH), Rep. LaHood (R-IL), Rep. Yakym III (R-IN), Rep. Steube (R-FL), Rep. Carey (R-OH), Rep. Buchanan (R-FL), Rep. Van Duyne (R-TX), Rep. Blumenauer (D-OR), Rep. Sánchez (D-CA), Rep. Higgins (D-NY), Rep. DelBene (D-WA), Rep. Chu (D-CA), Rep. Moore (D-WI), Rep. Kildee (D-MI), Rep. Beyer (D-VA), Rep. Evans (D-PA), Rep. Panetta (D-CA).
Set to expire on December 31, 2025, the New Markets Tax Credit was established in the Community Renewal Tax Relief Act of 2000 (PL 106-554) and is an essential source of financing for businesses and community facilities in low-income and rural areas across the country. Private investors will receive a 39 percent tax credit distributed over seven years for qualified investments into Community Development Entities (CDEs). These CDEs use the proceeds of those investments to finance business expansions, health centers, daycare facilities, business incubators, and other essential revitalization projects.
Since its inception, the NMTC has supported over a million jobs and invested billions into communities, including across New York's 24th District. A recent investment in Batavia, NY, will support the construction of the "Healthy Living Campus," a multimillion-dollar investment that will support the partnership between GLOW YMCA and United Memorial Medical Center. This project will create or retain nearly 400 quality jobs in the community.
“Now more than ever, it is essential that we work to create investments in our rural and low-income communities,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Rural America is often forgotten by the Washington elites, which means that rural communities sometimes lack the necessary resources to invest, grow, and expand. Congress must make the New Markets Tax Credit permanent to allow our rural communities to continue accessing this important resource which helps to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. As a small business owner from rural America, I will always be a tenacious advocate for investments in our rural communities and businesses in Congress.”
