Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) held a press conference at the Upper Nyack V.F.W. Post 9215 to discuss his office’s ongoing efforts to assist Hudson Valley residents during the government shutdown. The event brought together constituents who shared their experiences working with Lawler’s team to resolve issues with federal agencies.
Since January 2023, Lawler’s office has closed more than 7,400 constituent cases and helped return over $37.8 million to residents through agencies such as the IRS, Social Security, Medicare, and the VA.
“Even in the middle of this shutdown, my team and I are continuing to fight for the Hudson Valley and to make sure our neighbors can still get the help they need from federal agencies,” said Congressman Lawler. “Whether it’s securing funding for our local communities, expanding access to federal help through mobile office hours, or just picking up the phone when a constituent calls, that’s what this job is all about.”
Several constituents described how Lawler’s office assisted them:
Guy Gebbia, a Vietnam US Navy veteran and former commander of VFW Post 9215, said: “I’d been waiting on a decision from the VA since 2015, and thanks to Congressman Lawler and his team, I finally got my claim approved and settled after all those years. I received my disability benefits, and I’m very thankful and grateful to him. As an aging veteran, I can’t say thank you enough. I tried to get this resolved through many different avenues, but once I contacted Congressman Lawler’s office, it was taken care of in a very reasonable amount of time. I truly appreciate their help.”
Luis Brocano from Garnerville explained: “I needed to travel to attend my son’s graduation from Drill Instructor School in the United States Marine Corps, one of the proudest moments of my life, but I couldn’t do so without a valid Real ID. Congressman Lawler’s team immediately took my case, worked with the appropriate federal agency, and helped move the process forward in time for me to be there for my son’s big day. I’m very thankful to the Congressman and his staff for their dedication and responsiveness.”
Dr. William P. Mullaney, President of Rockland Community College stated: “Rockland Community College plays a vital role in strengthening our region, preparing students for careers, supporting local employers, and helping families build better lives. Our work is only possible through strong partnerships with community and government leaders who share that commitment.”
Maria Esther Pineda Reyes of Monsey wrote: “Team Lawler not only helped move my case forward quickly, they also went above and beyond to help my five-year-old son, Liam, get his visa appointment expedited in the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic. Thanks to their help, Liam is now here with me, starting school and adjusting to his new life in our community.”
Scott Nappi of Valley Cottage described getting his Social Security Disability benefits reinstated: “Last January, I was notified by Social Security Disability Insurance that my PTSD claim…was being denied because they said there wasn’t enough medical documentation…We later found out…the Social Security office hadn’t properly investigated…I reached out to State Senator Bill Weber’s office…who connected me with Congressman Lawler’s team…my SSDI was reinstated by the end of February…”
Rita Kelly of New City recounted her experience obtaining a Social Security card: “I recently needed to get a Social Security card so I could obtain a valid ID and travel…When I called…they were temporarily closed for repairs…I decided to reach out…and fortunately Donna answered…Within a day or two…I had an appointment scheduled for the very first day [the] office reopened.”
Ilir Zeka spoke about assistance with an immigration case: “I had reached out to several offices for help with my immigration case but Congressman Lawler’s office was the only one that got back right away…a decision that had been pending for two years was finally made within just one week…”
Brian Pearson shared how delays related to renewing legal documents under the Good Friday Agreement affected his benefits: “My legal documents are tied…renewing them each year can be complicated…those renewals have been delayed…my Social Security and Medicare benefits were stopped…When we reached out…Donna Sema and Julie were tremendously helpful…Thanks to their persistence…my paperwork has been processed…I have my documentation…and I’m on track…”
Residents needing assistance can contact Congressman Lawler’s district office at 845-201-2060 or visit lawler.house.gov.
Lawler represents New York’s 17th Congressional District north of New York City—including Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess,and Westchester Counties—and has been recognized as one of Congress’s most bipartisan members as well as its most effective freshman lawmaker during the 118th Congress.
