MAYOR ADAMS URGES NEW YORKERS TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS TO STAY SAFE DURING EXTREME HEAT

 

Cooling Centers Will be Open Across Five Boroughs 

 

Call 311 or Visit City’s Cool Options Finder to Fine Nearest Cooling Center Location, Hours 

  

New Yorkers Encouraged to Seek Air-Conditioned Cool Options, Including Public Spaces Like NYC Cooling Centers, or Private Cool Options Such as Homes of Friends or Family 

New York City Mayor Eric Adams today urged New Yorkers to take precautions to stay safe ahead of a multi-day stretch of hot and humid weather. According to the National Weather Service, heat index values on Tuesday are forecast to reach levels near 95°F. Confidence is higher for sustained heat indices between 95°F and 100°F from Wednesday through Friday, when a Heat Advisory is likely. Relief is expected by the weekend as a cold front moves through the region. 

  

There is also a Flood Watch in effect for the city on Monday evening, with the potential for heavy rain and localized flash flooding in the afternoon and evening. City agencies are actively coordinating to monitor conditions and respond as needed. Flash floods can fill streets, stairwells, and basements in minutes, often with little or no warning. New Yorkers who live in basements, below-grade dwellings, or low-lying areas should take extra precautions: keep a Go Bag near the door, clear exits, and plan to leave early if conditions worsen. 

  

“We’re looking at several days of intense heat, and now is the time to prepare,” said Mayor Adams. “Cooling Centers are opening citywide, and resources are available to help New Yorkers stay safe. If you live in a hot apartment or don’t have air conditioning, make a plan today. Drink water, avoid outdoor activity during the hottest hours, and don’t wait to seek help if you’re feeling lightheaded or ill. We’re also asking everyone to do their part to conserve energy. Set your air conditioner to the highest comfortable temperature and limit use of large appliances during peak hours. We’re mobilizing every resource to protect our city and get through this heat wave safely.” 

 

“These high temperatures call for extra awareness and simple steps that can make a big difference,” said New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) Commissioner Zachary Iscol. “We’re working closely with the National Weather Service, city agencies, and community partners to monitor conditions and respond as needed. Cooling Centers are open, but they’re just one option. Many public and private spaces offer safe, air-conditioned places to stay cool. If you don’t have air conditioning, make a plan now. Check on neighbors, especially older adults and people with medical needs. And help reduce strain on the grid by conserving energy during peak hours. This is a citywide effort, and every action counts.” 

   

New Yorkers are urged to take steps to protect themselves and help others who may be at increased risk from the heat. For more information, including heat-related health tips and warning signs of heat illness, visit NYCEM’s Beat the Heat website. In New York City, most heat-related deaths occur after exposure to heat in homes without air conditioners. Air conditioning is the best way to stay safe and healthy when it is hot outside, but some people at risk of heat illness do not have or do not turn on an air conditioner.  

  

NYCEM has activated the city’s Heat Emergency Plan in response to this extreme heat event. The plan brings together agencies across the city to protect New Yorkers from heat-related risks. Key actions include opening New York City Cooling Centers, expanding outreach to people experiencing homelessness, increasing public information efforts, and monitoring health impacts in real time. Agencies are also identifying and assisting residents at highest risk, including older adults and people with chronic health conditions, through coordinated outreach and targeted alerts using the city’s Advanced Warning System. The plan also strengthens coordination with utilities, health care providers, and community organizations to reduce risks and protect public health during extreme heat. 

  

To help New Yorkers find relief from the heat, New York City Cooling Centers will be open throughout the five boroughs. Cooling center locations may have changed from last year. To find a cooling center, including accessible facilities, call 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115) or visit the city's Cool Options Map. New Yorkers can now also find cooling centers that welcome pets throughout the five boroughs. As a reminder, service animals are always allowed at cooling centers. The map is now available around the clock and allows New Yorkers to easily locate cooling centers, which the city opens during heat emergencies, and Cool Options, which include free spaces that offer air-conditioned spaces to escape the heat. 

  

New Yorkers can access a range of outdoor cooling options, including spray showers, drinking fountains, and more. These resources can be found online at Cool It! NYC. Many of these resources are located in neighborhoods across New York City. New York City outdoor pools are open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. State Parks, including Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park pool and Roberto Clemente State Park pool are open, call ahead to confirm. 

  

During extreme weather emergencies, New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) outreach teams intensify around-the-clock efforts across the five boroughs, implementing best practices and health guidance as they engage New Yorkers experiencing unsheltered homelessness while encouraging them to access shelter and cooler settings. As part of these enhanced outreach efforts, DHS and provider outreach teams also offer water and other essentials while prioritizing the health and safety of vulnerable New Yorkers who are known to them. New Yorkers who see individuals they believe to be experiencing homelessness and in need should contact 311 via phone or mobile app and request outreach assistance. 

  

Additional Health and Safety Tips During Extreme Heat  

 

Those most vulnerable to heat stress include adults aged 60 and older and people with health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, mental health conditions, or people with cognitive impairment. Check on people who are at-risk and help them find a cool place to stay during heat events.  

•   Go to an air-conditioned location, even if for a few hours.  

•   Stay out of the sun and avoid extreme temperature changes.  

•   Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the sun’s peak hours from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. If strenuous activity is necessary, New Yorkers should conduct it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4:00 AM and 7:00 AM.  

•   Remember: drink water, rest, and locate shade if working outdoors or if work is strenuous. Drink water every 15 minutes even if not thirsty (avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine), rest in the shade, and watch out for others on outdoor teams.  

•   Eat small, frequent meals.  

•   Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. 

•   Participate in activities to keep cool, such as going to the movies, visiting museums, walking in an air-conditioned mall, or swimming at an outdoor pool or beach.  

•   Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens and, in apartments where children live, window guards. Air conditioners in buildings more than six stories must be installed with brackets so they are secured and cannot fall on someone below.  

•   Never leave a child or pets in the vehicle, even for a few minutes.  

  

Working Safely in Extreme Heat 

  

If working outdoors during extreme heat: 

  

•   Employers must provide water, rest, and shade. 

•   Use the buddy system to watch for signs of heat illness in yourself and coworkers. 

•   Drink water every 15 to 20 minutes, even if not thirsty, and take regular breaks in shaded or cool areas. 

•   Reschedule or limit strenuous work during peak heat hours (11:00 AM to 4:00 PM). 

•   Wear light, loose-fitting clothing to help stay cool. 

•   Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and reapply as needed. 

  

Know the Warning Signs of Heat Illness  

  

New Yorkers should call 911 immediately if they or someone they know has: 

  

•   Hot dry skin. 

•   Trouble breathing. 

•   Rapid heartbeat. 

•   Confusion, disorientation, or dizziness. 

•   Nausea and vomiting. 

  

If someone feels weak or faint, they should go to a cool place and drink water. If there is no improvement, call a doctor or 911. 

  

Keeping Pets Safe 

  

•   Avoid dehydration: Pets can dehydrate quickly, so give them plenty of fresh, clean water. 

•   Walk dogs in the morning and evening: When the temperature is very high, do not let dogs linger on hot asphalt. A pet’s body can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn. 

•   Know when a pet is in danger: Symptoms of overheating in pets include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, unresponsiveness, or even collapse. 

  

Improper Fire Hydrant Use  

  

Improperly opened fire hydrants waste over 1,000 gallons of water per minute and lower pressure needed to fight fires. New Yorkers who want to cool off in fire hydrants are asked to use a city-issued spray cap to reduce output to 25 gallons per minute. Residents 18 and older can request a spray cap at their local firehouse. 

  

Energy-Saving Tips  

  

During periods of intense electrical usage, such as on hot, humid days, it is important to conserve energy as much as possible to avoid brownouts and other electrical disruptions. While diminishing power usage may seem inconvenient, cooperation will help to ensure that utility providers are able to provide uninterrupted electrical service to New Yorkers, particularly to those who use electric powered medical equipment or are at risk of heat-related illness and death: 

 

•   Set air conditioner to 78°F or the highest healthy comfortable temperature. 

•   Run appliances such as ovens, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers in the early morning or late at night when it is cooler outside to reduce heat and moisture in the home. 

•   Close doors to keep cool air in and hot air out when the air conditioner is running. 

•   Keep shades, blinds, and curtains closed. About 40 percent of unwanted heat comes through windows. 

•   Turn off air conditioners, lights, and other appliances when not at home, and use a timer or smart technology to turn on an air conditioner about a half-hour before arriving home. Keep air conditioner filters clean. 

•   If running a business, keep door closed while the air conditioner is running. 

•   Tell utility providers if someone in the home depends on medical equipment that requires electricity. 

Air Quality  

  

New York City continues to monitor regional air quality and Canadian wildfire conditions that could affect the city. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York state Department of Health issue Air Quality Health Advisories when conditions may pose health risks. During poor air quality, limit outdoor activities, wear a mask if needed, and check AirNow.gov for current air quality readings. Visit the city's air quality page for guidance and recommendations. 

  

For more information, visit NYCEM’s Beat the Heat page. New Yorkers are also encouraged to stay informed by signing up for Notify NYC, the city's free emergency communications program, to receive free emergency alerts and updates in preferred language and format by texting NotifyNYC to 692-692, visiting the NotifyNYC page, calling 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115), following @NotifyNYC on Twitter, or getting the free Notify NYC mobile application for Apple or Android devices. 

  

Governor Hochul Announces MTA on Track for Record Year of Ridership and Performance in 2025

New York City Transit, Long Island Rail Road, Metro-North Railroad Hit Ridership and On-Time Performance Records in First Half of 2025

NYC Subway on Track for Best On-Time Performance in Recorded History

Customer Satisfaction Rates Improved Across All Three Agencies

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is on track to deliver a record-breaking year, following the success of the first six months of 2025. New York City Transit (NYCT), Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and Metro-North Railroad ridership and on-time performance have all improved in the first half of the year, while customer satisfaction rates are up across all agencies. This comes while the MTA executes a historic capital plan, investing in state-of-good-repair work that will ensure the system continues to run reliably and safely for generations to come. Safety in the subway system continues to improve with overall major crimes dropping by 3.2 percent from the same period last year and by almost 10 percent when compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

“MTA ridership, performance and safety are all improving dramatically in 2025, serving nearly six million New Yorkers every day and keeping New York moving,” Governor Hochul said. “Thanks to the investments we’re making in safer, more reliable and more frequent service, riders are benefitting every day. When transit is thriving, New York is thriving.”

In the past several years, Governor Hochul and the MTA have increased service across the MTA network. In 2023 and 2024, weekend and off-peak weekday service was increased on 12 subway lines, reducing wait times for millions of customers. The opening of Grand Central Madison in 2023 enabled a 41 percent increase in service on the Long Island Rail Road. Bus service has improved across the city: service was increased on 8 express and 15 local routes with high-ridership earlier this year, following the launch of congestion pricing. The Queens Bus Network Redesign, which began its first phase June 29, expands 24-hour service to hundreds of thousands of Queens bus riders and includes a $35 million annual investment in more service for the borough.

New York City Transit

In the first half of 2025, performance across New York City Transit was at historic highs. Weekday subway on-time performance in the first six months of 2025 was 83.7 percent, 2.4 percentage points higher than the same time last year and on track for the best non-pandemic year in recorded history. Weekday subway delays are down 11 percent in 2025 compared to 2024, while weekend delays were down 14 percent. Bus service delivery was above 95 percent each month of 2025, and bus speeds have improved over the first half of the year, thanks in part to reduced gridlock following the start of congestion pricing. Across the board, customers are happier. In the biannual customer survey completed this spring, satisfaction for subways rose 8 percent, satisfaction for local buses rose 11 percent, and satisfaction for express buses rose 9 percent compared to the Fall of 2024.

Ridership has also surged in 2025. The first half of the year has seen record post-pandemic ridership for subways, buses and paratransit. In June, NYCT surpassed 106 million rides, up 10 percent from 2024. 2025 subway ridership is up 8 percent compared to 2024 and 31 percent compared to 2022. Ridership gains have continued, with the first post-pandemic July days to exceed four million subway riders reached on July 9 and 10. Bus ridership has also grown in 2025, with ridership up 12 percent compared to 2024. Bus paid ridership has grown in part following the MTA’s efforts to improve fare compliance through targeted deployments of fare enforcement teams. Combined, buses and subways have carried over 850 million customers in the first half of 2025.

Paratransit has also continued to see huge ridership and performance gains. In June, Paratransit served 1.3 million Paratransit riders on 904,000 completed trips, both above previous pre-Covid peaks, and delivered an on-time performance rate of 92 percent for the month. Customer satisfaction has remained high with rates staying above 78 percent every month of 2025.

Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad

In June, LIRR hit a new post-pandemic high for weekday riders by averaging 266,047 weekday riders. On June 18, LIRR set a new single day post-pandemic ridership record, carrying 287,437 customers. LIRR carried 6.9 million customers in June, representing 89 percent of pre-pandemic ridership — the best June since 2019. Year-to-date ridership on LIRR is up 9 percent compared to 2024 and up 64 percent from 2022. LIRR also achieved the best June non-pandemic On-Time Performance in its history at 95.9 percent, up 1.4 percentage points from 2024.

On June 18, Metro-North carried nearly 259,000 riders and average weekday ridership for the month of June was 235,450, both new post-pandemic highs. Year-to-date Metro-North ridership is up 6 percent compared to 2024 and up 63 percent compared to 2022. Metro-North delivered an On-Time Performance rate of 98 percent in June, continuing its outstanding start to 2025. In the customer survey completed this spring, Metro-North received a satisfaction rating of 89 percent from customers, an increase of 4 percent from the Fall 2024 survey, while satisfaction among LIRR customers surged 11 percentage points from this time last year. 

Justice Department Releases Guidance on Implementing President Trump’s Executive Order Designating English as the Official Language of the United States

 

Today, the Department of Justice released Guidance to ensure compliance with President Trump’s Executive Order No. 14224, which establishes English as the official language of the United States of America. Consistent with the Executive Order, the Department of Justice will lead a coordinated effort across federal agencies to minimize non-essential multilingual services, redirect resources toward English-language education and assimilation, and ensure legal compliance with the Executive Order through targeted measures where necessary.

"As President Trump has made clear, English is the official language of the United States," said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. "The Department of Justice will lead the effort to codify the President’s Executive Order and eliminate wasteful virtue-signaling policies across government agencies to promote assimilation over division."

"President Trump’s Executive Order marks a pivotal step toward unifying our nation through a common language and enhancing efficiency in federal operations," said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. "The Department of Justice ensures that while we respect linguistic diversity, our federal resources will prioritize English proficiency to empower new Americans and strengthen civic unity.”

While leaving room for linguistic diversity that exists in private and community spheres, this Guidance will help streamline federal processes, reduce administrative burdens, and increase operational efficiency across agencies by removing extensive translation services and de-prioritizing multilingualism over English proficiency. Implementing the Executive Order will enhance social and economic integration, offer new Americans a vital pathway for civic engagement, and further bind Americans together with a shared language.

President Trump’s Executive Order rescinds Executive Order No. 13,166, signed by President Clinton on August 16, 2000. Executive Order No. 13,166 directed agencies to enhance access to federal programs for persons with limited English proficiency and required tailored guidance for recipients of federal funding—straining federal resources and impeding the assimilation of new Americans.

This is the latest Guidance issued by the Department of Justice to implement and administer President Trump’s agenda.

Read the Guidance HERE

Maryland IT Company Agrees to Pay $14.75M to Resolve Alleged False Claims

 

Hill ASC Inc., doing business as Hill Associates, of Rockville, Maryland, agreed to pay at least $14.75 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act in connection with a General Services Administration (GSA) contract for information technology services.

This settlement relates to a contract under which Hill provided information technology services to federal agencies from 2018 to 2023 through GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program. The MAS program provides the government with a streamlined process to buy commonly used commercial goods and services.  GSA negotiates contract terms and other agencies can then buy goods and services from the contractor under that GSA MAS contract. The settlement resolves allegations that Hill billed federal agencies for labor of information technology personnel who did not have the experience or education required under the contract. In addition, it resolves allegations that, although GSA required technical evaluations for contractors who sought to offer highly adaptive cybersecurity services to government customers, and Hill had not passed such an evaluation, Hill submitted claims for such cybersecurity services and other services that were not within the scope of the MAS contract. Finally, it resolves allegations that Hill charged the government for unapproved fees, failed to provide government customers with required information about discounts for prompt payment, and included unallowable incentive compensation in a cost submission in connection with a new contract proposal.

Under the settlement with the United States, Hill has agreed to pay $14.75 million, plus additional amounts if certain financial contingencies occur. The settlement amount was based on the company’s ability to pay.

“Information technology contractors are expected to charge the government appropriately for their services,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to pursue cyber fraud and hold accountable those companies that knowingly fail to meet contractual obligations to the American taxpayers.”

“Federal agencies should get what they have paid for from GSA contractors, nothing less,” said GSA Deputy Inspector General Robert C. Erickson. “I appreciate the hard work of all the attorneys, auditors, and special agents involved in this investigation.”

“False claims and similar unfair advantage by contractors undermine the integrity of the contracting process and can result in significant adverse effects to vital security concerns,” said Treasury Deputy Inspector General Loren Sciurba. “Treasury OIG is committed to conducting and assisting other agencies to the utmost in investigations, audits, and other work to detect and prevent these violations of the public trust.”

“As the nation’s tax watchdog, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) is dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)’s contracting and procurement processes,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jessica Cipolla of TIGTA’s Gulf States Field Division. “We remain steadfast in our mission to expose and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud the IRS. Anyone doing business with the IRS or the Department of the Treasury is expected to operate with the highest levels of honesty and integrity. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners for their continued collaboration and critical support in this investigation.”

The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the GSA’s Office of the Inspector General, the Treasury Department’s Office of Inspector General, and TIGTA. The matter was handled by Senior Trial Counsel Christopher Terranova of the Fraud Section.

The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

ICE Employee Attacked by Rioters After Congressman Doxes Him to Mob at California Marijuana Facility

 

ICE and CBP law enforcement rescued 14 children from potential exploitation, forced labor, and trafficking 

U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.) was among the mob of rioters who attacked federal immigration authorities as they executed a criminal search warrant at a marijuana facility. Rep. Carbajal doxed an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) employee, who was subsequently attacked by rioters and sent to the emergency room.

Images of injury inflicted on ICE employee after being doxed by Rep. Carbajal

During the enforcement operation in Carpinteria, California, Rep. Carbajal spoke to an ICE Public Affairs Specialist, who gave the congressman his business card. The congressman then showed the ICE employee’s business card to the mob, making a target out of him. The employee was subsequently attacked, with lacerations to his left hand due to a rock being thrown at him. The employee had to go to the emergency room and get stitches for his injury.

When ICE announced his actions led to an ICE employee’s injuries, the congressman deflected from his own actions by claiming oversight and falsely labeled the crowd as “peaceful protesters.” He did not address the injuries the ICE employee sustained as a result of his actions. Unfortunately, this is just another case of Democratic lawmakers labeling political stunts as oversight while they endanger the safety of ICE personnel.

“The actions by Representative Carbajal are downright un-American. He dares to claim that his actions were simply congressional oversight, but doxing ICE personnel and inciting a mob of rioters to attack law enforcement is NOT oversight—it's abominable.” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “His actions sent an ICE employee to the emergency room. It’s no wonder that ICE agents are facing a 700% increase in assaults when radical members of Congress like Salud Carbajal and LaMonica McIver are openly encouraging and leading their supporters in assaulting law enforcement.”

This operation led to the arrest of 361 illegal aliens and the rescue of 14 migrant children who were victims of potential exploitation, forced labor, and human trafficking. During the enforcement operation, officers were surrounded by a mob of 500 rioters who threw rocks and other objects at law enforcement and their vehicles.

Furthermore, several of the illegal aliens arrested at the facilities had extensive criminal records, including:

• Rape
• Kidnapping
• Serial burglary
• Attempted rape
• Attempted child molestation
• DUI
• Hit-and-run

The investigation into immigration and potential child labor violations is ongoing. Information will be released as it becomes available.

Governor Hochul Calls on President Trump, Congressional Leaders to Enhance Security and Protect Critical Infrastructure

Letter Highlights Critical Need For A Federal Comprehensive Strategy On Drone Detection Capabilities

Urges Federal Leaders To Grant States The Ability To Maintain And Expand The Authority To Improve Detection And Mitigation Of Drone Threats

Governor Kathy Hochul issued a letter to President Trump and Congressional leaders regarding the threat posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, and highlighting the critical need for a federal comprehensive strategy on drone detection capabilities. Late last year in the New York City area and the Hudson Valley, a number of drone sightings underscored the inadequacy of the federal government's posture and the constrained ability of state authorities to detect and mitigate these threats.

In the letter, Governor Hochul also urges federal leaders to grant states the ability to maintain and expand the authority to improve detection and mitigation of drone threats in coordination with federal agencies.

The full text of the letter is below:

Dear President Trump:

I am writing to you with respect to the critical need for federal action regarding the threat posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. As you are aware, late last year, the New York City area and the Hudson Valley experienced concerning UAS sightings that underscored the inadequacy of the federal government's posture and the constrained ability of state authorities to detect and mitigate these threats.

In early June, the Ukrainian military launched a successful surprise attack against Russian strategic air forces using drones. This serves as a stark reminder of the evolving and significant danger these systems present. An attack against strategic military and critical infrastructure in New York poses an urgent danger to the United States. I urge the Administration to proactively improve the UAS detection and mitigation posture in New York and for Congress to extend existing authorities and expand states' abilities to detect and mitigate these threats themselves.

The reality is that the federal government is unprepared and poorly postured to detect and mitigate UAS threats and states are hamstrung by a lack of legislative authority and action by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The time for decisive action is now.

I am asking your immediate attention on two fronts:

1. Coordinated Federal Action on Drone Threats. We need a comprehensive federal strategy that not only dramatically improves drone detection capabilities nationally but also provides robust, multi-layered mitigation measures. These detection and mitigation measures must first protect critical infrastructure like population centers, utilities, and military assets, but also be able to be swiftly deployed to areas of concern when necessary. In the summer of 2026-12 short months away - the New York area will be the epicenter for multiple high-profile events, including the World Cup, the flotilla of Tall Ships, International Naval Review, the largest ever Macy's fireworks show, and America's 250th birthday celebration, which will present prime targets.

2. Increased Authority for States to Detect and Mitigate Drones. New York State must maintain the authority to take proactive steps to detect and mitigate drones. The previous Congress extended important counter-drone authorities granted to the Department of Homeland Security and Federal Bureau of Investigation, but only to September 2025. The sunset of this authority puts the U.S. at risk and this authority must be extended. Additionally, expanded authorities and capabilities must be granted to states, such as through the measures proposed by the Safeguarding the Homeland from the Threats Posed by Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act. Granting states the authority they need to improve detection and mitigation of UAS threats, in coordination with federal agencies, is no longer a matter of preference. It is a matter of urgent concern.

The security of our state and the nation demands a coordinated and robust response to the challenge posed by drones. I urge you to prioritize this issue and take swift action before it is too late.

We stand ready to collaborate with the federal government and Congress to address this critical threat.

Sincerely,

Kathy Hochul

Governor

CC:

The Honorable Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security

The Honorable Sean Duffy, Secretary of Transportation

The Honorable Chris Rocheleau, Acting Administrator of the FAA

Attorney General James Sues Trump Administration for Illegally Freezing Billions in Education Funds

 

Funding Pause Jeopardizes Critical Programs for Migrant Children, English Learners, Low-Income Students, and Adult Learners Across New York and the Nation

New York Attorney General Letitia James and 22 other attorneys general, as well as the governors of Pennsylvania and Kentucky, today sued the Trump administration for illegally freezing nearly $7 billion dollars in critical education funding. On June 30, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) abruptly halted funds appropriated by Congress for six longstanding education programs, jeopardizing programs that provide after-school care for children of working parents, teach English to children who are non-native speakers, recruit and train teachers, expand STEM and arts curricula, and provide bullying and suicide prevention services in schools. The attorneys general are asking the court to stop the unconstitutional freeze, which has thrown schools nationwide into chaos, and compel the administration to release the billions of dollars in frozen funds that support some of the country’s most vulnerable children and their families.

“The federal government cannot use our children’s classrooms to advance its assault on immigrant and working families,” said Attorney General James. “This illegal and unjustified funding freeze will be devastating for students and families nationwide, especially for those who rely on these programs for childcare or to learn English. Congress allocated these funds, and the law requires that they be delivered. We will not allow this administration to rewrite the rules to punish the communities it doesn’t like.”

For decades, Congress has required the federal government to release this education funding to states by July 1 to ensure schools receive resources ahead of the new academic year. These funds are distributed through formula grants, meaning ED has a legal obligation to allocate them according to a set formula established by Congress. This year, however, just hours before the statutory deadline, the administration abruptly informed states that the funds would not be coming. ED announced a blanket freeze on six programs, including:

• The Migrant Education Program, which was created by Congress in response to the 1960 documentary Harvest of Shame to support the education of migrant farm workers and their children.
   
• Title II-A, which supports recruitment, training, and retention of effective teachers and school leaders, particularly in low-income and underserved communities.
   
• Title III-A, which provides English learners and immigrant students with the tools they need to attain English proficiency and meet state academic standards.
   
• Title IV-A, which supports student well-being and academic enrichment through services like school-based mental health care, violence, bullying, and suicide prevention, arts and STEM education, and college and career guidance.
   
• Title IV-B, known as the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program, which funds after-school and summer programs, tutoring, mentoring, and expanded literacy services.
   
• Adult Education Grants, which help adults build literacy and job-readiness skills, including civics education for English learners.

Together, these programs have provided vital educational support to millions of students and families nationwide for decades. Despite this history, the administration provided no legal justification for the freeze. On June 30, just hours before the funds were set to be distributed, ED sent states a vague, three-sentence email claiming that a “review” was underway to align funding with “the president’s priorities.” No details were provided on the duration or scope of the review. In the following days, OMB attempted to justify the freeze by claiming the funding had been used to “subsidize a radical leftwing agenda,” specifically accusing New York of using federal education funds to “promote illegal immigrant advocacy organizations,” which is patently false. OMB also raised objections to the use of funds for scholarships for immigrant students and lessons on LGBTQ+ topics.

This sweeping funding freeze has already caused chaos for school systems. Essential summer school and after-school programs, which provide childcare for working families, have been canceled or are at risk. Professional development for teachers and support for English learners are being halted or scaled back. With the school year weeks away, districts have been left scrambling. Most critically, states have had no time to fill the massive fiscal hole left by the sudden cutoff. Budgets have been finalized, staff hired, and contracts signed based on a decades-long expectation that this funding would arrive on July 1. Now, many states and school districts face the prospect of breaking contracts and slashing programming they can no longer afford.

In New York, more than $463 million in funding for the 2025-2026 school year has been frozen, 13 percent of the state’s total K-12 education funding. This includes more than $125 million for teacher training and development, $107 million to create safe and effective learning environments for New York students, $102 million for after-school and summer programs, $65 million to fund English learning and literacy initiatives, $10 million to support migrant students, and $52 million in adult literacy funding. The majority of this funding goes to 730 school districts across New York, which are now scrambling to address the budget shortfall.  

Already, some summer programs have been shuttered, meaning thousands of children are missing out on academic and enrichment programming, as well as midday meals. With these programs closed, many New York families have abruptly lost their childcare for the summer, and if the funding is not released by September, the number of families suddenly left without childcare will grow exponentially. The New York State Education Department (NYSED) estimates at least 65,000 low-income New York students could lose access to afterschool or summer enrichment programs and 80,000 New Yorkers could be cut off from adult education and literacy services.

In New York City, where 44 percent of public school students speak a language other than English at home, this freeze threatens essential English language instruction and literacy services. At the state level, the frozen funds cover the salaries and benefits of 67 full time employees. If the funding freeze continues, NYSED would be forced to conduct “large scale and unplanned layoffs,” which would have damaging reverberations across the state workforce, as well as disastrous impacts for local school districts.

Attorney General James and the coalition argue that this funding freeze violates the Constitution and federal law. The administration offered no reasoned explanation for a drastic policy reversal and failed to consider the states’ reliance on long-established funding processes, in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act. The freeze also violates the Constitution’s spending clause and separation of powers principle, because the administration has disregarded Congress’ sole power of the purse and exceeded its authority by attempting to conduct a discretionary “review” of programs established, funded, and regulated by Congress. In addition, the Impoundment Control Act prohibits the executive branch from unilaterally refusing to spend appropriated funds unless specific procedures are followed. Those procedures were not followed here.

The attorneys general highlight that this is not the first time the Trump administration has unlawfully attempted to block funds allocated by Congress. Federal courts across the country have repeatedly struck down similar overreaches targeting various educational and health initiatives. As those courts have affirmed, the president cannot defy the will of Congress.

Attorney General James and the coalition are asking the court to declare the funding freeze illegal and permanently block the action. They will be seeking a preliminary injunction covering all plaintiff states and are asking for a writ of mandamus to compel the administration to distribute the funds that Congress appropriated for school systems.

Joining Attorney General James in filing the lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia, as well as the governors of Pennsylvania and Kentucky.

Air Quality Health Advisory Issued for Eastern Lake Ontario, Central New York, and Western New York Regions

 

In Effect for Today, Monday, July 14

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton and State Department of Health (DOH) Commissioner Dr. James McDonald are issuing an Air Quality Health Advisory for fine particulate matter on Monday, July 14, 2025, for the Eastern Lake Ontario, Central New York, and Western New York regions due to the impact of smoke from wildfires in Canada. 

The pollutant of concern is: Fine Particulate Matter 

The advisory is in effect 10 a.m. through 11:59 p.m. 

The Air Quality Health Advisory regions consist of: Eastern Lake Ontario, which includes northern Cayuga, Jefferson, Monroe, Oswego, and Wayne counties; Central New York, which includes Allegany, Broome, southern Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, southern Herkimer, Livingston, Madison, Onondaga, Oneida, Ontario, Otsego, Tioga, Tompkins, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, and Yates; and Western New York, which includes Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming counties. 

DEC and DOH issue Air Quality Health Advisories when DEC meteorologists predict levels of pollution, either ozone or fine particulate matter (PM2.5), are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100. The AQI was created as an easy way to correlate levels of different pollutants to one scale, with a higher AQI value indicating a greater health concern. 

Fine Particulate Matter 

Fine particulate matter (PM) consists of tiny solid particles or liquid droplets in the air that are 2.5 microns or less in diameter. PM 2.5 can be made of many different types of particles and often come from processes that involve combustion (e.g., vehicle exhaust, power plants, and fires) and from chemical reactions in the atmosphere. 

Exposure can cause short-term health effects, such as irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and shortness of breath. Exposure to elevated levels of fine particulate matter can also worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease. People with heart or breathing problems, and children and the elderly may be particularly sensitive to PM 2.5. 

When outdoor levels are elevated, going indoors may reduce exposure. If there are significant indoor sources of PM 2.5 (tobacco, candle or incense smoke, or fumes from cooking) levels inside may not be lower than outside. Some ways to reduce exposure are to minimize outdoor and indoor sources and avoid strenuous activities in areas where fine particle concentrations are high. Additional information on ozone and PM 2.5 is available on DEC's website and on DOH's website. 

Additional information on PM 2.5 is available on DEC's website and on DOH's website (PM 2.5). A new DEC fact sheet about the Air Quality Index is also available on DEC’s website or by PDF download. 

To stay up-to-date with announcements from DEC, sign up to receive Air Quality Alerts through DEC Delivers: DEC's Premier Email Service. A toll-free Air Quality Hotline (1-800-535-1345) was also established by DEC to keep New Yorkers informed of the latest air quality situation.