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Rep Mike Lawler, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Introduces Bill to Strengthen Investigative Authority of Diplomatic Security Agents

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11 months ago

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has introduced the Parity in Diplomatic Security Investigations Act, a new bill aimed at modernizing the investigative powers of Diplomatic Security (DS) special agents.

The legislation seeks to grant DS agents the authority to intercept wire, oral, and electronic communications during official investigations without requiring individual preapproval from the Secretary of State for each instance—bringing their capabilities in line with other federal law enforcement agencies.

“Diplomatic Security Service agents are tasked with protecting American personnel and sensitive sites in some of the most dangerous regions of the world,” said Chairman Lawler. “But right now, they are hamstrung by an outdated process that requires case-by-case approval just to do what every other federal law enforcement agency can do. My bill ensures our agents can act swiftly and decisively in high-risk environments.”

The Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), the law enforcement and security arm of the U.S. Department of State, is responsible for protecting American diplomats and embassies around the world. However, Lawler noted that outdated bureaucratic procedures limit the agency’s ability to act in real-time, potentially putting U.S. personnel and national security at risk.

The Parity in Diplomatic Security Investigations Act is part of a broader package of reforms Lawler is advancing as part of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s State Department reauthorization process. As Chairman of the MENA Subcommittee, Lawler has jurisdiction over the State Department’s Bureau of Management and Bureau of Counterterrorism, and is using his leadership role to push for a more agile and effective foreign policy.

The bill is expected to receive consideration in the coming weeks and has already sparked discussion among lawmakers focused on improving U.S. diplomatic security efforts amid rising global threats.

Photo by Diplomatic Security.

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Rockland County Reflects on Revolutionary War History This Independence Day

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7 hours ago

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July 3, 2026

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This year’s Independence Day carries special meaning as our nation prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

As we approach this historic milestone, Rockland County has produced an incredible four-part Rev250 series that explores our community’s Revolutionary War history. From one of the greatest acts of treason in American history to the Storming of Stony Point, the events that unfolded in our own backyard read like a spy novel. Applause to the Economic Development & Tourism Department for creating this outstanding snapshot of Rockland’s rich history.

We encourage everyone to watch the four-part series on the Rockland County YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@RocklandGov.

The Fourth of July marks the moment our Founding Fathers boldly proclaimed a new nation, setting in motion a story of courage, sacrifice, and resilience.

As we honor 250 years of American independence, we are reminded that these ideals have endured because countless patriots have stood ready to defend them.

For too many who return home, however, especially our older veterans, navigating the VA system can be overwhelming. In Rockland County, we are committed to ensuring that no veteran has to face those challenges alone.

Our Veterans Service Agency (VSA) continues to provide critical support to the more than 9,000 veterans who call Rockland County home.

The VSA offers benefits counseling, claims preparation and follow-up, appeals assistance, employment resources, and guidance on navigating the VA healthcare system, including information about available Urgent Care and Community Care providers. These services help ensure our veterans receive the care, benefits, and support they have earned through their service.

As we commemorate this Independence Day and look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary, let us renew our commitment to those who have safeguarded our freedoms for nearly two and a half centuries.

If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of assistance, please reach out. Visit RocklandCountyNY.gov or call (845) 638-5244 to connect with our Veterans Service Agency.

 

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Farmers’ Markets and Farm Stands Open for the Season Across Rockland County

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4 days ago

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June 29, 2026

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Fresh, locally grown food is back in season as farmers’ markets and farm stands across Rockland County welcome shoppers for another year.

Residents can find a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, along with local honey, fresh eggs, flowers, baked goods, jams, and handcrafted products while supporting local farms and small businesses.

Shopping at local markets not only provides access to fresh, nutritious foods but also helps strengthen the local economy and supports the farmers who grow food throughout the region.

Whether you’re looking for freshly picked produce, homemade treats, or unique local goods, Rockland County’s farmers’ markets and farm stands offer something for everyone throughout the growing season.

Bring a reusable shopping bag when you visit farmers’ markets.  Here is a list of farmers’ markets and farm stands in Rockland County:

Cropsey Community Farm Stand:

  • Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays: 10 am – 3 pm and Thursdays: 10 am – 5 pm
  • Open now through November 28th
  • Location: 220 South Little Tor Road, New City
  • Bus Routes: TOR 91, Clarkstown Mini Trans Route B
  • Accepts: FMNP and FCC

Haverstraw Perez Farm Stand:

  • Sundays: 9 am – 2 pm
  • Open now through October 25th
  • Location: Municipal Parking Lot, 40 New Main Street, Haverstraw
  • Bus Routes: TOR 91,Coach USA 11A
  • Accepts: FMNP and FCC

Monsey Perez Farm Stand:

  • Sundays: 10 am – 3 pm
  • Open now through November 8th
  • Location: Front Lawn at 40 Robert Pitt Drive, Monsey
  • Bus Routes: TOR 59, Loop 1 and 2, Hudson Link H03
  • Accepts: FMNP, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) (EBT), and FCC

Nyack Farmers’ Market:

Pearl River Farmers’ Market:

  • Saturdays: 10 am – 2 pm
  • Open now through November 21st
  • Location: 58 East Central Avenue, Pearl River
  • Bus Routes: TOR 93
  • Some vendors accept SNAP/EBT and FCC

Piermont Farmers’ Market:

  • Sundays: 10 am – 3 pm, year-round
  • Location: 25 Flywheel Park, Piermont
  • Bus Routes: Coach USA 9A
  • Some vendors accept SNAP/EBT and FCC

Spring Valley J&D Perez Farm Stand:

  • Wednesdays: 10 am – 3 pm
  • Open now through October 28th
  • Location: Finkelstein Memorial Library, 24 Chestnut Street, Spring Valley
  • Bus Route: TOR 59
  • Accepts: FMNP and FCC

Several markets and farm stands in Rockland County accept food assistance benefits, including Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) checks, SNAP/EBT, and FreshConnect Checks (FCC). These programs help make fresh, healthy food more affordable for local families, older adults, and veterans. The RCDOH encourages residents to learn more about nutrition assistance programs available at participating markets.

The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) provides checks to eligible women, infants, and children through the WIC program. The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) offers coupons for eligible low-income adults aged 60 and older living in NYS. SNAP/EBT benefits can also be used at select markets to help families buy healthy food.

FreshConnect Program Checks (FCC) are available to active-duty military members, veterans, and eligible family members to buy fresh produce and other food items at participating farmers’ markets across NYS.

For more information on Rockland County Farmers’ Markets and available food assistance programs, visit the Rockland County Department of Health.

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