Monica R. Martinez

What a wonderful day celebrating culture, community, and pride at the 60th Annual Brentwood Puerto Rican/Hispanic Day Parade!

Congratulations to this year’s honorees, whose leadership and service continue to strengthen our communities. It was an honor to join residents from across Suffolk County in recognizing the contributions and achievements of our Hispanic and Latino communities.

A special thank you to Margarita Espada and Teatro Yerbabruja for their dedication and leadership in organizing this beloved community tradition and ensuring its continued success for 60 years.

¡Que viva nuestra comunidad!

Today, we honor the courage and sacrifice of the Allied forces who stormed the beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1944. 

Their bravery changed the course of history and defended the cause of freedom around the world. We remember the heroes of D-Day and we will never forget their legacy.

Another busy week serving the Fourth Senate District and beyond!

I was proud to donate blood at the New York State Legislature Blood Drive in Albany. Thank you to the American Red Cross and everyone who continues to give back.

It was an honor to celebrate the young women receiving their Gold Awards at the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County Gold Awards Ceremony. Their dedication to service and leadership is inspiring.

Congratulations to Lorena Rojas on achieving the rank of Eagle Scout, one of the first female Cub Scout in Suffolk County. As part of Troop 371, she assembled 104 activity packages for children undergoing critical and long-term care at Northwell Heath Cohen’s Medical Center.

Our office also joined community partners and the American Red Cross for a smoke alarm installation initiative, helping families stay safe in their homes.

Finally, we were proud to recognize Michael Stadelman on earning the rank of Eagle Scout. Michael’s commitment to service includes creating a memorial honoring EMS personnel lost on September 11th and serving today as a certified EMT.

Thank you to all the volunteers, community leaders, and residents who make our communities stronger every day. Together, we continue building a safer and stronger New York.

🚨 Legislative Update

Volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers are the backbone of our communities, and they deserve support that reflects the critical role they play in keeping New Yorkers safe.

I’m proud to announce that the New York State Legislature has passed my legislation, S.6233A, alongside A.6790, which increases the state income tax credit available to eligible volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers to $800 beginning with tax year 2026.

The legislation also authorizes, under certain conditions, a property tax exemption for eligible volunteer fire and ambulance service members residing in the local jurisdiction.

As volunteer recruitment and retention challenges continue across New York, this legislation is an important step toward recognizing the dedication, sacrifice, and service of those who answer the call when their communities need them most.

The bill has now passed both houses of the Legislature and awaits the Governor’s review and signature before it can become law.

Thank you to our volunteer first responders for your unwavering commitment and service.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! 🎓

It was an honor to join the graduates, families, faculty, and staff at Farmingdale State College’s Commencement Ceremony and celebrate this incredible milestone.

Wishing all of our graduates success, fulfillment, and endless opportunities in the years ahead.

Congratulations, Class of 2026! We can’t wait to see what you accomplish next!

Every blood donation has the power to save lives—and right now, the need is critical.

I’m proud to partner with the New York Blood Center and our local community organizations, and invite you to two upcoming blood drives in the Fourth Senate District.

Whether you’re a first-time donor or a regular donor, your contribution can make a real difference for patients and families across our region.

📍 Copiague Memorial Library
🗓 Sunday, June 7 | 11:30 AM–4:00 PM

📍 South Shore Mall (in front of Macy’s)
🗓 Thursday, June 18 | 12:00 PM–6:00 PM

Please consider rolling up your sleeve and helping meet this critical need. Together, we can save lives!

This year’s State Budget delivers real results for workers, families, and veterans.

✅ Tier 6 reforms for teachers, state workers, and first responders

✅ Inflationary support for human services professionals serving vulnerable New Yorkers

✅ Increased funding for food assistance, nutrition programs, and Universal School Meals

✅ A new property tax exemption option for permanently and totally disabled veterans

These investments strengthen our communities and help make New York more affordable for the people who call the Fourth Senate District home.

We proudly recognize Fourth Senate District Veteran Hall of Fame inductee Michael Sweeney for his extraordinary service, resilience, and commitment to uplifting fellow veterans. 🇺🇸

A proud graduate of West Babylon High School, Michael served honorably in the U.S. Navy from 1986 to 1996, including during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. After facing significant challenges upon returning home, Michael turned adversity into purpose—finding healing through the support of the veteran community and dedicating himself to helping others do the same.

Through his work with Paws of War and several veteran-focused organizations across Long Island, Michael has become a mentor, advocate, and source of hope for countless veterans. Alongside his service dog, Storm, Michael continues to embody compassion, perseverance, and selfless service.

From being honored at a New York Islanders and New York Jets game to having his name added to the Wall of Honor at Eisenhower Park, Michael’s impact continues to inspire our community every day.

Congratulations, Michael, on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for your continued service to our country and our community.

This Memorial Day, we came together as a community across our district to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

From the moving ceremony at the Long Island State Veterans Home, to gathering with residents in Amityville Village and Central Islip, we remembered those who gave their lives defending our freedoms and paid tribute to the families who carry their legacy forward.

Their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

As families and communities around the world celebrate Eid al-Adha, I extend my warmest wishes for a joyful and blessed holiday.

May this special occasion be filled with faith, gratitude, compassion, and time spent with loved ones.

Eid Mubarak to all who are celebrating!