Rep. Nick LaLota, the only Republican from the Northeast on the House Appropriations Committee, announced that more than $429 million in federal funding will be allocated to Suffolk County, Long Island. The legislation, which was signed into law by the President, is intended to support scientific research, environmental programs, and public safety initiatives across the region.
LaLota said, “I’m proud to have secured historic funding that strengthens Long Island’s leadership in scientific research while delivering real results for our communities. This funding provides record investment for Brookhaven National Laboratory’s Electron-Ion Collider, fully funds Stony Brook University’s advanced research programs, and expands support for the Long Island Sound, coastal resilience, and clean-water infrastructure critical to our shoreline economy.”
He also emphasized how the package will benefit local residents: “From restoring STEM education funding that had been eliminated to securing millions for water infrastructure and public safety, this legislation delivers measurable results for Suffolk County families. My focus remains simple: ensure Long Island gets its fair share while advancing American competitiveness, national security, and constitutional freedoms.”
The appropriations package includes $155 million for construction of Brookhaven National Laboratory’s Electron-Ion Collider and $182 million for operations at its Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider. Additional funds are directed toward projects such as Stony Brook University’s Geo-Erosion Monitoring Systems and several national science initiatives supporting both institutions.
Environmental investments feature $40.5 million for the Long Island Sound Geographic Program as well as grants aimed at beach protection and coastal resilience. Funding increases were also made for law enforcement programs including Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grants (Byrne JAG), and drug enforcement efforts.
The spending package supports economic development with preserved funding for manufacturing partnerships and increased resources for export controls and innovation hubs.
Nick LaLota has represented New York’s 1st district in Congress since 2023 after succeeding Lee Zeldin. He was born in Bay Shore in 1978 and currently resides in Amityville. More information about his background can be found on his official congressional page.
LaLota collaborated with committee leadership to secure these funds after extensive discussions with local officials and stakeholders throughout Long Island. According to LaLota’s office, these investments aim to maintain Long Island’s role as a leader in innovation while providing direct benefits to families in Suffolk County.
