Attorney General James Secures $36.5 Million from CVS for Defrauding Medicaid

 

AG James and Bipartisan Coalition of Attorneys General Found CVS Overbilled Medicaid for Insulin Prescriptions by Millions of Dollars

New York Attorney General Letitia James joined a bipartisan coalition of 36 other attorneys general and the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) in securing $36.5 million from CVS Pharmacy, Inc. (CVS) for fraudulently overbilling Medicaid for insulin prescriptions. From 2010 to 2020, CVS knowingly dispensed more insulin to customers than they needed while maintaining that they were reporting the correct amount of insulin in their prescriptions. These fraudulent claims allowed the company to rake in millions in extra reimbursements from Medicaid for insulin distribution. Under a settlement with Attorney General James and the coalition, CVS will pay more than $25 million to state Medicaid programs across the country, including $2.25 million to New York. 

“When big companies defraud Medicaid, hardworking New Yorkers pay the price,” said Attorney General James. “Our state’s Medicaid funds should support health care for those in need, not unjustly boost the profits of big corporations like CVS. My office is focused on stopping fraud in all its forms, and I will continue to root out corporate corruption on behalf of New Yorkers.”

Insulin “pens” – a set dose of insulin in a syringe contained inside a plastic shell – are a common way for diabetic patients to give themselves the insulin they need. Patients need a prescription for these pens and receive a supply from their pharmacy that will last them a certain amount of time – often 30 or 90 days – along with instructions on how to administer the correct dose at the right frequency.

Attorney General James and the coalition’s investigation found that CVS dispensed more insulin to Medicaid recipients than their prescriptions specified and refilled insulin pen prescriptions well before they were needed. This allowed CVS to overbill Medicaid millions of dollars for more insulin than it should have been dispensing. To cover up their fraud, CVS falsely under-reported the amount of time that the supply of insulin would last and failed to comply with certain rules used to calculate refill dates. As a result of CVS’s false claims, some Medicaid recipients accumulated large quantities of unused insulin, which was both wasteful and potentially dangerous as insulin can expire.

As a result of the settlement, CVS will pay $36,500,000 to the states and federal government, including $25,108,480.45 for Medicaid programs in the participating states, and $2,257,250.51 for New York.

Joining Attorney General James in securing the settlement are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.

A National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units (NAMFCU) team investigated the allegations in conjunction with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. The NAMFCU team included attorney representatives from the offices of the attorneys general for the states of New York, California, Florida, and Wisconsin. 

New York MFCU’s total funding for federal fiscal year (FY) 2026 is $70,793,651. Of that total, 75 percent, or $53,095,240, is awarded under a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The remaining 25 percent, totaling $17,698,411 for FY 2026, is funded by New York State.

DEC ANNOUNCES MORE THAN $78 MILLION IN GRANT FUNDING FOR WATER QUALITY PROTECTION PROJECTS ACROSS THE STATE

 

Funding Supports Updating Water Infrastructure, Combatting Harmful Algal Blooms, Protecting Drinking Water, Increasing Flood Resilience, and Treating Contamination from Landfills

Applications Due July 31

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced the availability more than $78 million for water quality improvement and protection projects. The funding is part of the millions of dollars now available through the Consolidated Funding Application recently announced by Governor Kathy Hochul for more than 20 programs to facilitate projects that advance regional strategic plans and State priorities.  

“Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership and record investments in water quality, the tremendously successful Water Quality Improvement Project program is back with another round of more than $78 million available for municipalities to ensure clean drinking water,” Commissioner Lefton said. “This program continues to be a gamechanger in helping deliver the resources needed by local governments to make crucial infrastructure upgrades, protect water sources and habitat, and build stronger, healthier communities.” 

This year, at least $75 million is available through DEC’s Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program and up to $3 million is available through DEC’s Non-Agriculture Nonpoint Source and Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4)Planning Grant (NPG) program. Applications for these grants are available through the New York State’s Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) through July 31, 2025, at 4 p.m.

“This Water Quality Improvement Project funding helps advance the goals of the South Shore Estuary Reserve’s Comprehensive Management Plan and supports the continued progress we are making to protect and restore this vital ecosystem,” said Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. “Improved water quality is a key ingredient for healthy habitats and thriving wildlife throughout the estuary, and we are grateful to Governor Hochul and our partners at DEC for their continued commitment to this important work.” 

Water Quality Improvement Project Program  

The Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program is a competitive, statewide reimbursement grant program that supports implementation projects that directly improve water quality or habitat, promote flood risk reduction, restoration, and enhanced flood and climate resiliency, or protect a drinking water source. This round of available funding includes a total of at least $75 million combined from the following sources: 2022 Clean Water, Clean Air, Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, State Environmental Protection Fund, Clean Water Infrastructure Act (CWIA), and geographic specific funding provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for Long Island Sound and Lake Champlain watersheds. The following project types are eligible for 2022 Clean Water, Clean Air, Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act funding: non-agricultural nonpoint source abatement and control, dam safety repair/rehabilitation and dam removal, aquatic connectivity, marine district habitat restoration, and fish and wildlife habitat restoration and enhancement.  

In WQIP, maximum grant awards range from $100,000 to $15 million depending on the project type and population served, as identified in the application. Municipalities, including Indian Nations, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and not-for-profit corporations are eligible to apply. Nine different project types are available for implementation funding in 2026, including: 

• Wastewater treatment improvement, including abatement of combined sewer overflows; 
• Non-agricultural nonpoint source pollution abatement and control, including green infrastructure projects;  
• Vacuum trucks for municipal separate storm sewer systems;  
• Land acquisition for drinking water source water protection; 
• Salt storage and road salt reduction practices; 
• Dam safety repair, rehabilitation, and removal; 
• Aquatic connectivity; 
• Marine District habitat restoration;  
• Fish and wildlife habitat restoration and enhancement; and  
• Landfill leachate treatment 

Earlier this year, more than $200 million in WQIP grants  supported projects including municipal wastewater treatment upgrades, abatement and control of polluted runoff, land acquisition projects for drinking water protection, salt storage construction and road salt reduction practices, aquatic connectivity restoration, fish and wildlife habitat restoration and enhancement, and marine district habitat restoration. 

Non-Agricultural Nonpoint Source and Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System Planning   

DEC’s Non-Agricultural Nonpoint Source and Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Planning Grant (NPG) funds projects that help pay for the initial planning of non-agricultural nonpoint source water quality improvement projects, such as undersized culvert replacements and green infrastructure technologies, State permit-required stormwater system mapping, and stormwater management program planning in urban areas. These projects will reduce the amount of polluted stormwater and runoff entering lakes, rivers and streams, and improve resiliency against the impacts of climate change.  

In NPG, maximum grant awards range from $50,000 to $75,000 for the Nonpoint Source Planning category depending on the report type, $75,000 to $400,000 for the MS4 Mapping category depending on whether the application is on behalf of a collaborative, as identified in the program overview, and up to $50,000 for MS4 Stormwater Management Program planning. There is no minimum award amount. Municipalities, including Indian Nations and Soil and Water Conservation Districts, are eligible to apply for this opportunity. Funding for this program is supported by the State's EPF. 

Interested potential applicants can learn more about the WQIP and NPG programs by attending a webinar hosted by DEC scheduled for June 8 at 1:00 p.m. There will be time available for questions. Registration is required.   

For additional program information and requirements, including maximum award amounts, required match, and descriptions of project types or eligible grant categories, view DEC's WQIP and NPG webpages. 

New York's Commitment to Water Quality 

New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure. The recently Enacted 2026-27 budget includes the Governor’s historic $750 million one-year commitment to clean water, with $525 million for Clean Water Infrastructure Act funding, $175 million for water infrastructure projects to promote housing, and $50 million for water infrastructure projects to promote housing in rural communities. The budget also reaffirms New York’s commitment to environmental leadership by appropriating $425 million to the EPF, using $25 million from the Sustainable Future Program to provide a record $450 million for important environmental programs. 

DEC continues to partner with the State Environmental Facilities Corporation’s (EFC) Community Assistance Teams to help local governments, with a focus on small, rural and disadvantaged communities, leverage this funding and address their clean water infrastructure needs. Any community needing assistance with water infrastructure projects is encouraged to contact EFC. 

Municipalities are encouraged to search the Funding Finder to see other open opportunities for grants and other programs promoting water quality, increase resiliency, preventing flooding, among other climate impacts. Applications are due June 12 for Green Resiliency Grants and June 26 for Resilient Watershed and Community Resilience and Flood Risk Reduction grants. 

About the Consolidated Funding Application 

The Consolidated Funding Application was created to streamline and expedite the grant application process. The CFA process marks a fundamental shift in the way state resources are allocated, ensuring less bureaucracy and greater efficiency to fulfill local economic development needs. The CFA serves as the single-entry point for access to economic development funding, ensuring applicants no longer have to slowly navigate multiple agencies and sources without any mechanism for coordination. Now, economic development projects use the CFA as a support mechanism to access multiple state funding sources through one application, making the process quicker, easier, and more productive. Learn more about the CFA here. 

Senator Julia Salazar - Next Monday: Free Homeowner Counseling

 

Secretary Mullin Highlights Local Law Enforcement Cooperation at National Sheriffs’ Association Annual Conference

7 of the 10 safest cities in the country cooperate with ICE law enforcement 

On Monday, June 8, the United States Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin participated in a discussion with Sheriff Chris West, President of the National Sheriff’s Association and Canadian County (OK) Sheriff, at the 2026 NSA Annual Conference in Omaha, Nebraska. Secretary Mullin spoke about the importance of cooperation between DHS and local law enforcement, as well as priorities for the department under his leadership.

“The 287(g) program can be a tremendous asset to you and to the country,” said Secretary Mullin. “If we had the participation of all the county sheriffs that are in this building right now, think how much faster those arrests would move up. 70% of those that ICE arrests have a criminal background, regardless of what the Left will tell you.”

Secretary Mullin participates in a discussion with Sheriff Chris West, President of the National Sheriff’s Association and Canadian County (OK) Sheriff, at the 2026 NSA Annual Conference in Omaha, Nebraska on June 8.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has supercharged efforts with state and local law enforcement to assist federal immigration officers in our efforts to make America safe again. 287(g) partnerships have increased 1,314% -- from 135 agreements to 1,909.

The NSA represents sheriffs, deputies, and other law enforcement across the country to offer training, information, and collaborative opportunities to support agencies across the country. DHS has a robust partnership with NSA, particularly the DHS Office for State and Local Law Enforcement, which serves as a resource and liaison for state and local law enforcement within the agency.

Twenty-Six Trinitarios Gang Members Charged with RICO Conspiracy Related to Five Murders After Homeland Security Task Force Efforts

 

Twenty-six alleged leaders, members and associates of the Trinitarios, a violent transnational criminal organization, have been indicted on federal racketeering (RICO) conspiracy charges in connection with five murders and 19 attempted murders, as well as drug trafficking and firearm charges. Over the past two years, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has been relentless in its efforts to dismantle and decimate the Trinitarios in Massachusetts, charging a total of 56 members who are alleged to have committed or participated in 11 murders and 30 attempted murders since 2017. The investigation also resulted in the apprehension of seven illegal aliens from the United States who have either been deported or are currently in deportation proceedings.

“It is safe to say that for far too long the Trinitarios have wreaked havoc and instilled fear in our communities. Murders, attempted murders, kidnapping, witness tampering and extortion. The list goes on and on, but that ends today. Their boldness and hubris are quite frankly astounding. It appears the defendants believed they were immune from prosecution. They were wrong,” said U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in my office 56 Trinitarios have been taken off the streets and their entire leadership  has been decimated.”

“Massachusetts communities are safer today after the arrests of 24 alleged members of the Trinitarios. This deadly transnational street gang has inflicted senseless violence and terror upon our communities – from drug trafficking and gun violence to kidnapping and murder— but we are working tirelessly to hold them to account,” said HSI New England Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Grimming. “We’re facing more dangerous, more violent, and more complex crime than ever before, but HSI and the Homeland Security Task Force are ready to meet the challenge.” 

Group of Trinitarios in Lawrence flashing gang signs, holding green bandannas (referred to as flags), and taking over a local gas station for a music video that was being filmed.

Firearms and drugs seized from Trinitarios gang members and associates

The charges unsealed are part of a multijurisdictional, multiphase investigation that began in 2024 and, in February 2025, led to federal RICO conspiracy charges against 22 leaders, members and associates of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios and its state leadership. Court documents in that case described the Trinitarios alleged participation in six murders and 11 attempted murders. The investigation began in the aftermath of four murders and a series of attempted murders and shootings in Lynn, Mass.,, allegedly committed by the Trinitarios.

The individuals charged are alleged leaders, members and associates of the

Lawrence, Haverhill and Boston Chapters of the Trinitarios. Court documents filed today describe the gang’s alleged participation in five murders, 19 attempted murders, efforts to kill witnesses, the trafficking of dozens of kilograms of drugs, extortion of legitimate businesses with the threat of violence, kidnappings and robberies.

Firearms and drugs seized from Trinitarios gang members and associates.

According to court documents, the Lawrence, Lynn, Boston and Haverhill Chapters of the Trinitarios allegedly dominated their communities by intimidating rival gangs and establishing control over certain neighborhoods. Each individual Chapter allegedly had a “Cabinet” of leaders who were responsible for recruiting new members, providing discipline to members in violation of Trinitarios directives and collecting money for a communal account used to support illegal operations and incarcerated Trinitarios members and their families. It is further alleged that the Trinitarios employed a written “Magna Carta” that defines the structure and rules of the organization, as well as slogans, symbols, colors and practices. The Massachusetts Trinitarios allegedly undertook extensive efforts to recruit new members among communities of legal immigrants and illegal aliens from the Dominican Republic – particularly juveniles in local high schools in Lawrence and Lynn. The gang allegedly appealed to the recruits shared Spanish language and culture, Dominican patriotism and used the appearance of prosperity and brotherhood.

It is further alleged that members were generally initiated into the gang after a period of observation or probation and were often inducted following the completion of a “mission” – which were generally significant acts of violence such as shootings, beatings, or fist fights with rival gang members that were the same age or stature. Upon induction, new members were “blessed” into the organization during a formal ceremony, administered oaths by the State Supreme and awarded ceremonial beaded necklaces. Younger members were allegedly tasked with lesser roles during many violent “missions,” including standing lookout during shootings, holding or concealing weapons on behalf of full members and transporting weapons after a shooting.

Over 600 grams of fentanyl and 200 grams of cocaine, cutting agents, items and paraphernalia used in the manufacturing and packaging process, and three firearms seized from a Trinitarios stash house in Tewksbury. 

The gang allegedly produced music and music videos featuring Trinitarios pageantry and symbolism; gang members in Trinitarios colors and clothing holding weapons, cash and other items; and lyrics that boasted about the Trinitarios proclivity for violence and the scope of their successful drug distribution operations and other money-making criminal endeavors as warnings and threats to other rival gangs.

In February 2025, federal racketeering charges were unsealed against 22 leaders and members of the Trinitarios. In March 2025, a Lynn member of the Trinitarios was sentenced to 10 years in prison. In June 2025, two members of the Trinitarios were charged with kidnapping a drug supplier. In July 2025, the leader of the Lynn Chapter was sentenced to 14 years in prison. In December 2025, two members of the Lynn Chapter, Michael Miliano and James Jimenez pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy. In April 2026, Luis Enrique Santana pleaded guilty. In May 2026, Westyn Lantigua pleaded guilty. In June 2026, Luis Jeffrey Santana pleaded guilty.

The charge of conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity (also known as “racketeering conspiracy” or “RICO conspiracy”) provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, supervised release for up to life and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation; Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Feld Division; Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker; Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble; Lawrence Police Chief Maurice Aguiler; and Methuen Police Chief Scott J. McNamaramade the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Postal Inspection Service; Customs and Border Protections; U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire; U.S.

Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine; Massachusetts Department of Corrections; Massachusetts Army National Guard – Counterdrug Office; Attorney General’s Office for the State of Maine; New Hampshire State Police; Maine State Police; Maine State Drug Enforcement Administration; Piscataquis County Sheriff’s Department (Maine); Middlesex District Attorney’s Office; Essex County Sheriff’s Department; and the Andover, Boston, Haverhill and Tewksbury Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Boston is comprised of agents and officers from HSI, FBI, DEA, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS, DOL-OIG and DSS, as well as several state and local law enforcement agencies, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Governor Hochul Urges New Yorkers to Prepare for Multiple Days of Extreme Heat

Feels-Like Temperatures in the High 90s, Low 100s for Areas Across New York City, the Hudson Valley, Finger Lakes, Capital Region and Southern Tier Thursday and Friday

Scattered Thunderstorms Possible Statewide Wednesday and Thursday

Saturday Feels-Like Temperatures in the High 80s Align with First Match of the FIFA World Cup Taking Place in New York/New Jersey

New Yorkers Can Sign Up for Weather and Emergency Alerts by Texting 333111

Governor Kathy Hochul urged New Yorkers to prepare for a multi-day stretch of high outdoor temperatures that will impact areas across the state beginning Wednesday and continuing through the weekend. Scattered thunderstorms are also possible across the state Wednesday and Thursday, with the potential for severe local weather. Feels-like temperatures will get into the high 90s, low 100s in areas across the New York City, Hudson Valley, Finger Lakes, Capital Region and Southern Tier regions Thursday through Friday. Heat Advisories are not currently in effect but may be declared later in the week.

“Extreme heat poses a huge risk if not taken seriously,” Governor Hochul said.“This week, the World Cup kicks off, and as New Yorkers make plans to watch the first match, it is critical to factor in a plan for severe heat: Plan ahead and stay hydrated, check in with elderly neighbors and know where your nearby cooling centers are during the next few days.”

Extreme heat is dangerous and is the leading cause of weather-related fatalities in the United States. The most common heat-related illnesses are heat stroke (sun stroke), heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat rash. Learn more about heat-related illness, including signs and symptoms and when to take action on the State Health Department’s extreme heat advice webpage.

 New York State Department of Public Service

To support New Yorkers during extreme heat events, the Public Service Commission approved a comprehensive statewide policy in March 2026 regarding extreme heat customer protection for the largest investor-owned electric utilities and water utilities. That decision prohibits these utilities from terminating residential, including residential end-use, customers' service for non-payment during extreme heat events. Additionally, these utilities, in coordination with DPS Staff and Stakeholders, developed criteria to identify heat island locations across New York State. Customers residing in these areas will receive additional protections during extreme heat events.

The Department of Public Service (DPS) is tracking electric system conditions and overseeing utility response to any situations that may arise as a result of this week's heat. Department staff, as a part of annual summer preparation activities, work with all utilities to confirm that they will reliably meet customer demands for the summer operating period. Based on staff review and assessment of utility data, meetings with each of the individual utilities and the New York Independent System Operator, staff found that the state’s electric transmission and distribution systems are prepared to reliably meet forecasted 2026 summer electric demands.

New York's utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available, as necessary, to engage in damage assessment, response, repair, and restoration efforts across New York State for this heat event. Agency staff will track utilities' work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.

During heat waves, increased usage of electric devices such as air conditioners place a considerable demand on the state's electricity system and instances of low voltage or isolated power outages can result. The record for such usage was set on July 19, 2013, when it reached 33,956 MWs (one megawatt of electricity is enough to power up to 1,000 average-sized homes).

New York State Department of Health

The State Health Department is taking a number of steps to promote the safety of all New Yorkers in periods of extreme heat, especially those most at risk. The Department is working with DSHES and local health departments and emergency managers to ensure access to cooling centers and safe spaces during this extreme heat.

The New York State Department of Health’s interactive Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard allows the public and county health care officials to determine the forecasted level of heat-related health risks in their area and raise awareness about the dangers of heat exposure.

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Many New York State Park beaches, pools and spraygrounds have opened for the season. Prior to making a trip, potential visitors should call ahead to the park they plan to visit or check https://parks.ny.gov/parks/ for park hours and operations. Changes in weather and water conditions may affect swimming status. Park status updates are also available on the free New York State Parks Explorer mobile app for iOS and Android devices.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) remains on alert and continues to monitor weather forecasts.

Air Quality

DEC is monitoring air quality across the state and will issue air quality health advisories as necessary. New Yorkers are encouraged to be “Air Quality Aware” and check airnow.gov for accurate information on air quality forecasts and conditions. To view the latest DEC air quality forecasts, visit the DEC website.

Hiking Safety

DEC reminds outdoor adventurers that unpredictable weather — including rapidly changing temperatures and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills, and other backcountry areas — can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for rain, mud and warmer temperatures to ensure a safe outdoor experience.

Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures and general recreation information.

Hiking in the heat is always risky. New Yorkers and visitors should review the following tips to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke:

• Slow your pace
• Drink water and rest often
• Seek shade and avoid long periods in direct sunlight
• Bring at least 2 liters of water for any hike
• Bring a water filter, especially for longer hikes
• Bring salty snacks to keep your electrolytes in check
• Wear sunscreen
• Leave your pets at home — the heat is harder on them, especially walking on hot rocks
• Consider staying home yourself and rescheduling for another day when weather conditions improve

Even if the weather is forecast to be high heat all day, there’s always a chance of hypothermia due to a sudden storm or drop in temperatures. This can increase dramatically if you’re sweating and not wearing sweat-wicking clothing (made of fabrics like wool or polyester). Many cases of hypothermia are in the summer when people least expect it.

Whether you are hiking, mountain biking or paddling, Hike Smart NY can help you prepare with a list of 10 essentials, guidance on what to wear, and tips for planning your trip with safety and sustainability in mind. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.

Extreme Heat

New York State agencies recently announced new and continued investments to address extreme heat, prioritizing disadvantaged communities on the frontlines of heat exposure, new funding opportunities to create public cooling spaces, and expanded assistance to provide affordable cooling for New Yorkers at home. The efforts mark progress on New York State’s Extreme Heat Action Plan (EHAP), directed by Governor Hochul and first announced in June 2024 to address extreme heat impacts and prioritize State investments. Additional information about EHAP initiatives, including urban heat island mapping, is available on DEC’s website.

Mayor Mamdani Declares Wednesday, June 10 “Wear Blue and Orange Day”

 

City workers and public school students invited to wear blue and orange in honor of the Eastern Conference champion New York Knicks ahead of Game 4 of the NBA finals  

  

The Knicks’ blue and orange are an homage to New York City’s official colors  

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani announced today that Wednesday, June 10, will be recognized across City government offices and New York City public schools as Wear Blue and Orange Day in honor of the New York Knicks. Students, educators and City employees are invited to wear blue and orange ahead of Game 4 of the NBA Finals.   

  

The Eastern Conference champion New York Knicks have worn blue, white and orange throughout the team’s history. The colors pay tribute to the official colors of the City of New York.  

  

“Nothing says ‘let’s go Knicks’ like blue and orange,” said Mayor Mamdani. “As our Knicks continue this historic run, we’re inviting New Yorkers to show their pride, wear the city’s colors and stand behind a team that has brought all of New York together. We’re so glad to have them back to Madison Square Garden in front of the best fans in the world.”   

  

The Knicks will host the San Antonio Spurs in Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden. New York currently holds a 2-1 lead in the series.  

DHS Directs ICE to Deport Aliens Who Vote in American Elections

 

The Immigration and Nationality Act directs the removal of aliens who illegally vote in American elections

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released the following statement after DHS General Counsel James Percival directed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to enforce stricter penalties, including deportation, for aliens who illegally vote in American elections.

In a letter to ICE leadership, DHS points out that the Immigration and Nationality Act directs the removal of aliens who illegally vote or make a false claim to U.S. citizenship, which often go hand-in-hand. These provisions even allow for the removal of aliens legally in the U.S. if they illegally participate in our elections. A criminal conviction is not required to invoke these provisions.

“The importance of free, fair, and honest elections is without question. Echoing the words of President Trump, ‘the right of American citizens to have their votes properly counted and tabulated, without illegal dilution, is vital to determining the rightful winner of an election,’” said DHS General Counsel James Percival. “Illegal voting by aliens dilutes the votes of American citizens and undermines our democracy. It must have consequences.”

This directive will help to further implement policies like those that President Donald J. Trump enacted with Executive Order 14248, Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections, signed on March 25, 2025. That order directs actions across the federal government, including with regard to verifying voter eligibility, grant administration, information-sharing, enforcement of federal integrity laws, improving voting systems, and criminal prosecution of unlawful voting by aliens.