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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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10 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 “But right now, they are hamstrung by an outdated process that requires case-by-case approval just to do what every other federal law enforcement agency can do.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 However, Lawler noted that outdated bureaucratic procedures limit the agency’s ability to act in real-time, potentially putting U.S. personnel and national security at risk.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 Promotes Native Plants and Water-Smart Landscaping

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7 days ago

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June 3, 2026

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The Water Advisory Council is encouraging residents to embrace water-smart landscaping practices that conserve water and support environmental health.

Officials recommend reducing nonfunctional lawn areas and replacing them with native plants, drought-tolerant landscaping, rain gardens, bioswales, and rain barrels. These practices help reduce water consumption, manage stormwater runoff, improve groundwater recharge, and increase resilience to climate change.

According to the Council, water demand in Rockland County rises from an average of 30 million gallons per day to as much as 45 million gallons per day during the warmer months, placing additional strain on local water supplies.

Residents are encouraged to consider native plants such as Creeping Phlox, Foamflower ‘Elizabeth Oliver,’ and Jacob’s Ladder, which require less watering once established and are well-suited to local conditions.

Examples of successful rain gardens featuring native plants can be found at Orangeburg Library, Bowline Point Park, Kennedy Dells County Park, and Piermont Library.

By replacing sections of lawn with native plants and incorporating features that manage rainwater naturally, residents can play a direct role in protecting Rockland County’s water resources.

The initiative is part of the county’s ongoing effort to promote sustainable landscaping and encourage participation in the national “Less Lawn More Life” movement.

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Rockland Conservation & Service Corps Stream Team Helps Prevent Flooding and Protect Waterways

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7 days ago

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June 3, 2026

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Members of the Rockland Conservation & Service Corps are helping protect local communities through their work with the Rockland County Drainage Agency, inspecting and assessing streams throughout Rockland County.

The Corps’ Stream Team identifies obstructions such as fallen trees, debris, and sediment buildup that can restrict water flow and contribute to flooding during heavy storms. Members also document illicit discharges, erosion issues, and areas in need of sediment remediation.

The information collected helps county officials address potential problems before they become larger environmental or public safety concerns.

In addition to reducing flood risks, the Stream Team’s work supports water quality and helps maintain healthy ecosystems throughout the county. By monitoring local waterways and identifying issues early, the team plays an important role in protecting Rockland County’s natural resources and strengthening community resilience.

Officials say the partnership highlights the importance of proactive environmental stewardship and ongoing efforts to keep Rockland County’s streams healthy, safe, and flowing properly.

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