Dear John,
Memorial Day Weekend Reminders
As we head into Memorial Day, here are a few important updates:
Our office will be closed Monday, May 26 in observance of Memorial Day. You can still reach us at [email protected] or leave a voicemail at (718) 499-1090, and we’ll follow up when we return on Tuesday, May 27.
On Memorial Day, buses, subways, LIRR, and Metro-North will operate on Sunday schedules. Make sure to check for service changes and planned work using the MTA map and updates page.
Another Local Law Passed and In Effect!
Yesterday, my bill—the Affirm Act—was officially signed into law! As part of the Protect Trans Futures legislative package, this new law sends a powerful message: trans and gender non-conforming people are protected, welcomed, and affirmed in New York City—regardless of who is in the White House.
The Affirm Act builds on my earlier work with Local Law 76 of 2022 and clarifies that if a person wrongfully has their ability to access gender-affirming care infringed upon either physically or by a lawsuit, they have a private right of action to now counter-sue under New York City law. This law reinforces our City as a national safe haven for those seeking gender-affirming care, shielding patients who travel to New York City for care from lawsuits initiated by conservative governments or entities. No one should face legal repercussions for receiving medically necessary treatment in our City. The actions of the Trump Administration and the cowardly compliance of certain providers are absolutely shameful and have endangered the lives of so many TGNCNBI New Yorkers. With the Affirm Act, we're pushing back against these dangerous attacks and building a stronger, safer New York for our TGNCNBI community.
I’m deeply grateful to the trans New Yorkers, physicians, and advocates who helped shape this law. Working alongside my colleagues in the LGBTQIA+ Caucus, I’m committed to ensuring that NYC remains a place of protection, affirmation, and pride.
Light the Way BK – Community Town Hall – NYC and NYS Budget
In continuing our work in standing up against extreme federal policies, my office is hosting another Light the Way, BK Community Town Hall on Saturday, June 7th, from 11 AM to 1 PM at MS 51 on how federal budget cuts are impacting our state and city budgets. We’ll be joined by experts from the Comptroller’s Office, Advocates for Children, and others as we unpack the city’s budget process and how you can help shape it. RSVP here to save your spot – space is limited!
