{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where state = \"CA\" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://aguilar.house.gov/2024/12/31/aguilar-issues-end-of-year-report-to-constituents-3/", "Aguilar Issues End-Of-Year Report to Constituents", "2024-12-31", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Pete Aguilar", "A000371", "aguilar.house.gov", "aguilar", "https://aguilar.house.gov/category/congress_press_release/", "scraper", "Press Releases\n\nAguilar Issues End-Of-Year Report to Constituents\n\nToday, Rep. Pete Aguilar issued a report to Inland Empire residents outlining how he fought for them over the course of 2024. Rep. Aguilar prioritized securing resources for the region, creating jobs, lowering costs and promoting economic opportunity.\n\n\u201cAs we come to the end of 2024 and the 118th Congress, I am proud to share how I\u2019ve fought to deliver for the hardworking people of the Inland Empire,\u201d said Rep. Pete Aguilar. \u201cThis year, I\u2019ve focused on fighting for solutions that make life better for our community by pushing to lower costs, make health care more accessible and boost our economy. I am honored to serve the people of the Inland Empire in Congress and I am committed to keep working for our region in 2025.\u201d\n\nDuring 2024, Rep. Aguilar delivered for the Inland Empire by:\n\nHelping 596 Inland Empire residents resolve outstanding issues with federal agencies, such as accessing the Social Security Administration, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).\n\nReturning nearly $11 million the federal government owed to residents by federal agencies, including IRS refunds, veterans\u2019 benefits and Social Security payments.\n\nAnnouncing nearly $170 million in direct federal funding for the Inland Empire, including funding for local police and fire departments, infrastructure projects, affordable housing services, school districts and health care programs. Specifically, this includes:\n\n$3,000,000 for the City of Highland\u2019s SR-210 at 5th Street Interchange Improvements to support improvements at the State Route 210 and 5th Street interchange to improve traffic flow.\n\n$2,600,000 for the Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino\u2019s Arrowhead Grove Community Resource Center to establish a community resource center focused on health, wellness, housing stability services and economic self-sufficiency for residents of Arrowhead Grove, San Bernardino County and Inland Empire Health Plan members.\n\n$1,666,279 for the Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services\u2019 Affordable Housing Development and Preservation Program to support the preservation of an existing affordable housing multi-family unit in the City of San Bernardino\n\n$1,000,000 for the City of Rancho Cucamonga\u2019s Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) to support the deployment of an Advanced Traffic Management System to be responsive to real-time traffic patterns and natural disasters\n\n$1,000,000 for the San Bernardino County\u2019s Glen Helen Regional Park Playground Expansion to rehabilitate and greatly improve a children\u2019s play area, addressing equipment safety concerns and the structural integrity of the playground and enhancing the recreational and aesthetic experience for visitors and residents.\n\n$963,000 for the City of San Bernardino\u2019s Safety Camera Project to support law enforcement in their efforts to reduce violent crime by installing safety cameras that include data analytics that can be used to monitor activity and assist with investigations.\n\n$963,000 for California State University, San Bernardino\u2019s Tech and Workforce Hub Project to upgrade technology where students, university faculty, community college faculty and employers will be trained on cybersecurity projects.\n\n$959,757 for the West Valley Water District\u2019s Bunker Hills Wells Project to support the drilling and equipping of two new groundwater production wells, storage tank, booster pump station and pipelines to transport the needed water supply to water management agencies within the Upper Santa Ana River Watershed.\n\n$959,757 for San Bernardino County\u2019s Arrowhead Farms project to connect 257 residential properties in the unincorporated community of Arrowhead Farms to city sewer lines.\n\n$875,424 for the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council\u2019s Skyland Ranch Project to make facility improvements at Skyland Ranch Camp, which hosts outdoor and environmental education programming for Girl Scouts and co-ed schools in the region.\n\n$850,000 for the Omnitrans\u2019 Battery Electric Buses and Design of On-Route Charging Infrastructure to purchase three new zero-emission electric buses and on-route charging stations for San Bernardino\u2019s fleet to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve public transit.\n\n$850,000 for the City of Rialto\u2019s I-10/Riverside Avenue Freight Improvement Project to support critical improvements along Riverside Avenue, including extending northbound left-turn lanes and adding continuous sidewalks. These upgrades will ease traffic congestion and improve pedestrian safety, benefiting both local commuters and the flow of freight in and out of the region.\n\n$850,000 for the City of San Bernardino to renovate and restore the Nicholson Community Center to include access to health care, a food pantry, after-school programs and access to substance abuse prevention and mental health programs.\n\n$500,000 for the Blessing Center\u2019s Hannah\u2019s Village to make improvements to the center\u2019s current transitional housing program that serves at-risk women and children in our community, constructing 26 additional living spaces for up to 30 new mothers and nearly 70 homeless children.\n\n$525,000 for the West Valley Water District Emergency Generator Project to enhance water reliability during emergency situations. The project will keep WVWD\u2019s pump stations and wells operating during power outages.\n\nThroughout the past year, Rep. Aguilar fought for legislation to help San Bernardino County families by:\n\nPassing the Dr. Margaret B. Hill Post Office Bill and getting it signed into law. This bill will rename the Del Rosa Post Office to honor the late Dr. Margaret B. Hill, a beloved educator and community advocate who passed away in December 2021.\n\nCreating the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Supportive Services program at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which is based on Rep. Aguilar\u2019s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Expansion Act. This program will allow the FAA to provide technical assistance and training to DBEs competing for FAA grants.\n\nPassing the University Centers for Growth, Development, Prosperity (GDP) Act under the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). This bill requires the EDA to create a University Center at an Institute of Higher Education in every state.\n\nIntroducing the Affordable Housing Resident Services Act, which would provide funding to owners of affordable housing properties to offer supportive services for their residents.\n\nIntroducing the bipartisan National GIS Day Resolution to designate November 20, 2024, as National GIS Day and encourage the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to drive economic growth.\n\nSecuring $2.5 million for the Affordable Housing and Supportive Services Demonstration program that Rep. Aguilar helped create in 2023. This program provides funding to owners of affordable housing properties to support their residents, including after-school programs for children and teenagers; education opportunities for youth and adult residents; mental health, alcohol and addiction treatment; self-sufficiency resources; resources on future home ownership; financial literacy training; elderly care; assistance to residents with disabilities; and other community services.\n\nSecuring the following wins in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA):\n\nNew study authorization focused on Flood Risk Management for the Rialto Flood Control Channel, which will finish the last unimproved portion of the channel from Sycamore Avenue just south of the I-10 freeway and continue further southward to the Santa Ana River. Improvements include the construction of 1.8 miles of a reinforced concrete channel.\n\nNew study authorization focused on Flood Risk Management for San Bernardino\u2019s Del Rosa Flood Control Channel. The County plans to make substantial improvements to 2.5 miles of the existing flood control channel along Del Rosa Avenue from Pacific Street to Daley Basin. This expansion project would upgrade the interim earthen channel by constructing the ultimate rectangular concrete channel and increasing the flow capacity of undersized box culvert street crossings.\n\n$20 million in Environmental Infrastructure (EI) authority for water and wastewater infrastructure, including stormwater management, for Bloomington.\n\n$20 million in Environmental Infrastructure (EI) authority for water and wastewater infrastructure, including stormwater management, for Colton.\n\n$10 million in Environmental Infrastructure (EI) authority for water and wastewater infrastructure, including stormwater management, for Grand Terrace.\n\nHosting Federal Agency Officials in the District:\n\nHosted U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra to highlight the investments Congressman Aguilar secured to make health care more affordable and equitable in the Inland Empire.\n\nHosted Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Isabel Guzman to highlight small businesses in the Inland Empire. Rep. Aguilar and Administrator Guzman also hosted a roundtable, where they heard directly from local small business owners about the issues impacting them and their employees.\n\nHosted U.S. Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo at Eisenhower High School where Rep. Aguilar and Deputy Secretary Adeyemo participated in a Q&A session with the Senior class.\n\nHosted U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce Alejandra Castillo to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new workforce training center at the San Bernardino Valley College.\n\nHosted Chief Executive Officer of Federal Home Loan Bank San Francisco (FHL Bank) Teresa Bazemore, National CORE and additional housing partners in a roundtable discussion on housing affordability and housing development issues.\n\nJoined the Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose at San Bernardino County Transportation Authority\u2019s unveiling of the Arrow Passenger Rail Service between Redlands and San Bernardino, which will be the first zero-emission, self-powered passenger train in North America.\n\nJoined Harry Wingo, White House Deputy National Cyber Director, at CSUSB\u2019s Cybersecurity Education event. The forum gathered leaders from academia, industry, and state and federal government to demonstrate the potential of cyber workforce ecosystems and how these groups are working together to create a successful partnership in California.\n\nRep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and as a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://barragan.house.gov/2024/12/31/daily-breeze-los-angeles-lomita-to-take-ownership-of-san-pedro-ballfields/", "DAILY BREEZE: Los Angeles, Lomita to take ownership of San Pedro Ballfields", "2024-12-31", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nanette Diaz Barrag\u00e1n", "B001300", "barragan.house.gov", "barragan", "https://barragan.house.gov/news", "scraper", "Los Angeles and Lomita will take ownership of some baseball fields from the U.S. Navy\u2019s Defense Support Point in San Pedro, officials announced Tuesday, Dec. 31.\n\nRep. Nanette Barrag\u00e1n, D-Los Angeles, said she secured language in the National Defense Authorization Act to help transfer the federal land, which would happen after negotiations between the Navy and the cities are complete. President Joe Biden signed the bill into law last week, the congresswoman said.\n\nFour years ago, the Secretary of Defense issued a memo stating that the Department of Defense would no longer support nonprofits that use and maintain the sites, according to Barrag\u00e1n\u2019s office. As a result, the Defense Department was planning to dramatically increase fees for using the ballfields, at 2981 N. Gaffey St. and 3181 N. Gaffey St., in San Pedro, and at 26800 S. Western Ave., in Lomita.\n\nRelated: San Pedro, Lomita youth sports fields get new lease on life\n\nThe San Pedro Girls Softball Association, the San Pedro Athletic Complex and the Lomita Little League \u2014 which had used and maintained the fields for nearly 50 years \u2014 would have been priced out from using the fields, Barrag\u00e1n said.\n\n\u201cBaseball is America\u2019s pastime,\u201d Barrag\u00e1n said in a statement, \u201cand our communities in the Los Angeles Harbor Area have long relied on these fields to provide access to youth athletic programs and other outdoor recreation activities.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m so proud to have secured this language in this year\u2019s NDAA to begin the transfer of the ballfields to our communities,\u201d she added, \u201cproviding our kids with access for years to come.\u201d\n\nThe language gave the Secretary of the Navy the authority to transfer the San Pedro ballfields to the cities of Los Angeles and Lomita, but requires a \u201cmutually satisfactory agreement\u201d between the parties, according to Barrag\u00e1n\u2019s office.\n\nThe congresswoman previously led efforts on an interim agreement that allowed community organizations to access the fields.\n\nEarlier this year, Barrag\u00e1n and Rep. Ted Lieu, D-Torrance, introduced similar legislation to protect community access to the fields. They sent a letter in September 2021 to U.S. Navy Secretary Carlos del Toro that helped prevent a dramatic fee increase, they said.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased that with this bill becoming law, our communities will continue to have access to these vital recreational spaces,\u201d Lieu said in a statement. \u201cBy allowing Los Angeles and Lomita to gain permanent ownership of the San Pedro ballfield, we are ensuring accessibility for future generations. No family should have to pay sky-high fees for their children to enjoy sports and play ball.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://costa.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-jim-costa-announces-2024-congressional-app-challenge-winner", "Rep. Jim Costa Announces 2024 Congressional App Challenge Winner", "2024-12-30", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jim Costa", "C001059", "costa.house.gov", "costa", "https://costa.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FRESNO, Calif. - Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) is pleased to announce Sarah Park, as the winner of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge in California\u2019s 21st District.\n\nSarah Park of Visalia, CA, is a student in her 11th year at Independence Law Academy. Aspiring to become an attorney, Sarah is driven by her strong understanding of the law and her passion for helping others. Her STEM background includes experience in JavaScript and React Native. Through her participation in the Congressional App Challenge, Sarah enhanced her coding skills and aims to one day combine her knowledge in law and technology to create a meaningful impact. Park has been selected as California\u2019s 21st district\u2019s winner for her innovative app, \u201cMyPie.\u201d\n\n\u201cSarah Park\u2019s innovative app, MyPie, showcases the creativity and talent this competition is designed to inspire,\u201d said Congressman Jim Costa. \u201cBy addressing a real-world issue like healthy eating habits, Sarah has demonstrated the power of technology to improve lives and strengthen communities. I am proud of her achievement and excited for her future.\u201d\n\n\u201cWinning the Congressional App Challenge is an incredible honor, and I am grateful for this opportunity to showcase my app,\u201d said Sarah Park. \u201cMy Pie is a simple diet tracking tool based on the MyPlate diagram, inspired by my personal journey to improve my health and the realization that you truly are what you eat. This experience has shown me that with the right mindset, anyone can bring their ideas to life through code.\u201d\n\nABOUT THE APP\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge is an annual competition sponsored by the Internet Education Foundation (IEF), that empowers middle and high school students nationwide to use coding and STEM skills to create impactful apps. The challenge is the most prestigious prize in student computer science and has reached underserved, diverse, and rural student populations.\n\nSarah Park developed the MyPie app to help users track their meals using an interactive version of the USDA\u2019s MyPlate food diagram. Inspired by the creator\u2019s experience with acid reflux, MyPie encourages mindful eating by categorizing food into five groups \u2013 protein, vegetables, fruits, grains, and dairy \u2013 and allowing users to log daily portions.\n\nSimple yet powerful, the app promotes healthier diets and overall well-being, showcasing how technology can create meaningful change.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-paperwork-burden-reduction-act-rep-panetta-and-chairman-jason-smith", "The Bipartisan Paperwork Burden Reduction Act  by Rep. Panetta and Chairman Jason Smith, Signed into Law by President Biden", "2024-12-30", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jimmy Panetta", "P000613", "panetta.house.gov", "panetta", "https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Monterey, CA \u2013 The Paperwork Burden Reduction Act was signed into law by President Joe Biden. The bipartisan legislation was authored and introduced by United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) and Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Jason Smith (MO-08). The law will relieve employers and workers from outdated, burdensome rules requiring employers to mail no longer needed tax paperwork to employees. Specifically, the legislation ends the requirement that employers continue to mail both forms 1095-B and 1095-C to employees to prove compliance with the Affordable Care Act\u2019s no longer existent individual healthcare mandate. The bill allows employees instead to request 1095-B and 1095-C health insurance tax forms online, rather than be mailed a paper copy, while ensuring the form is still available to employees who need it.\n\nEvery year, employers spend significant time and resources mailing 1095-C forms to employees. Only 1.4 percent of Americans decline their offer of employer-sponsored health insurance and will need to use this form. More than 154 million Americans will receive this unnecessary form in the mail, confusing workers and frustrating taxpayers.\n\n\u201cThere are too many unnecessary burdens on taxpayers and small businesses,\u201d said Rep. Panetta. \u201cThe bipartisan Paperwork Burden Reduction Act is a straightforward and commonsense law that will eliminate unnecessary paperwork that strains small businesses and drags down working families access to the Affordable Care Act. I thank Chairman Smith for his leadership and partnership on passing this legislation and I look forward to continuing to find common ground on these types of solutions that make our lives easier and livelihoods flourish.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://costa.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-jim-costas-statement-passing-former-president-jimmy-carter", "Rep. Jim Costa's Statement on The Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jim Costa", "C001059", "costa.house.gov", "costa", "https://costa.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "FRESNO, Calif. - Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21), issued the following statement today upon learning the passing of former President Jimmy Carter:\n\n\u201cToday, we mourn the loss of the passing of former President Jimmy Carter. I join all Americans in recognizing President Carter for his lifetime of public service to our country. His legacy of compassion, dedication, and leadership serves as a role model that should not be forgotten. It is with heartfelt condolences that I extend to the Carter family during this difficult time.,\u201d said Congressman Costa.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://kamlager-dove.house.gov/media/press-releases/kamlager-dove-statement-passing-president-jimmy-carter", "Kamlager-Dove Statement on the Passing of President Jimmy Carter", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Sydney Kamlager-Dove", "K000400", "kamlager-dove.house.gov", "kamlager-dove", "https://kamlager-dove.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LOS ANGELES, CA \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) released the following statement on the passing of President Jimmy Carter:\n\n\u201cToday, we mourn the passing of President Jimmy Carter, a man whose legacy of service, compassion, and humility extends far beyond his time in office. As a former president and Nobel Peace Prize recipient, President Carter\u2019s immeasurable impact on our nation and the world will never be forgotten.\n\n\u201cThroughout his presidency, Mr. Carter was ahead of his time on environmental issues and made human rights a central tenet of his foreign policy\u2013 laying the foundation for a better future. However, it was his work after leaving the White House\u2013 building homes with Habitat for Humanity, negotiating peace agreements, and traveling to promote global health and democracy\u2013 that truly set him apart. President Carter exemplified what a public servant should be: someone deeply committed to improving the world not just for themselves, but for future generations.\n\n\u201cPresident Jimmy Carter will be remembered as one of the greatest presidents our nation has ever had. I join the country in sending my deepest condolences to the Carter family and all those who loved and admired him. In his memory, may we continue his work to build a more equal, just, and peaceful world.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://lindasanchez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sanchez-statement-president-carters-passing", "S\u00e1nchez statement on President Carter\u2019s passing", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Linda T. S\u00e1nchez", "S001156", "lindasanchez.house.gov", "lindasanchez", "https://lindasanchez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congresswoman Linda T. S\u00e1nchez (D-CA) released the following statement on the passing of President Jimmy Carter:\n\n\u201cThe passing of President Carter is a tremendous loss for our country. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.\n\n\u201cFrom a Georgia peanut farm to the highest office in the land to building homes with Habitat for Humanity and protecting elections around the world, President Carter served with compassion, humility and a quiet dignity that few can emulate. May his life spent in service to others be an inspiration for all of us.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://matsui.house.gov/media/press-releases/matsui-statement-passing-president-jimmy-carter", "MATSUI STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Doris O. Matsui", "M001163", "matsui.house.gov", "matsui", "https://matsui.house.gov/media", "scraper", "SACRAMENTO, CA \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07) issued the following statement after the passing of former President Jimmy Carter.\n\n\u201cPresident Jimmy Carter was an extraordinary American and a beacon of light for democracy and human rights across the world,\u201d said Congresswoman Matsui. \u201cHis life represents what we strive to be as Americans\u2014kind, charitable, and hard-working. As President, he fought to protect the environment, extend health care for children and families, and seek peace and diplomacy across the world. In the decades since, he transformed countless lives fighting disease, housing the homeless, and advancing civil and human rights. President Carter truly lived a life of service. A life of leadership through compassion and moral clarity. A life of uplifting and empowering the most underserved among us by enabling them to harness their strength and courage. He undeniably made the world a better place than he found it\u2014and we are all forever grateful.\u201d\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-passing-president-jimmy-carter", "Pelosi Statement on the Passing of President Jimmy Carter", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nancy Pelosi", "P000197", "pelosi.house.gov", "pelosi", "https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "San Francisco \u2013 Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on the passing of former President James Earl \u201cJimmy\u201d Carter, Jr.:\n\n\u201cToday, our nation and our world has lost a leader who embodied dignity and decency, grace and goodness. Paul and I join in mourning the loss of President Jimmy Carter and in giving thanks for his life, which was saintly in its devotion to public service and peace.\n\n\u201cAt the heart of President Carter\u2019s public service was his fervent commitment to honoring the spark of divinity within every person. He always defended that spark: whether teaching Sunday school in his beloved Maranatha Baptist Church, brokering the landmark Camp David Accords to pave the way to peace or building homes with Habitat for Humanity. As President, his work to restore integrity to the political arena during a difficult chapter in our history was a testament to his firm faith in the sanctity of the public good, which he always placed above his own. After leaving the White House, he carried on his service \u2014 leading perhaps the most impactful post-presidency in history.\n\n\u201cPresident Carter\u2019s love for his wife, First Lady Rosalynn Carter, is immortal. Their beautiful bond and partnership in service were a wonder to behold. May it be a comfort to their children, Jack, Chip, Jeff and Amy, and the entire Carter family that so many mourn their loss and are praying for them at this sad time.\u201d\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/118th-congress-update-thompson-recoups-264-million-constituents-delivers", "118TH CONGRESS UPDATE: THOMPSON RECOUPS $26.4 MILLION FOR CONSTITUENTS, DELIVERS $16.4 MILLION FOR COMMUNITY PROJECTS", "2024-12-27", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Mike Thompson", "T000460", "mikethompson.house.gov", "mikethompson", "https://mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 As the 118th Congress comes to a close, Rep. Mike Thompson released the following update on his work delivering for the constituents of California\u2019s Fourth District:\n\nDear Friends,\n\nAs the 118th Congress comes to a close, here\u2019s what my team and I have done\u2026\n\nDelivering for Constituents\n\nSupporting Fourth District residents like you is the cornerstone of all that we do at Team Thompson. Since the start of this congress, my staff and I have worked with federal agencies to return $26,369,178.98 to residents of our district and helped 3,923 constituents receive assistance from the federal government.\n\nMy team and I have responded to over 277,000 letters, emails, and phone calls from community members, reached over 400 veterans and their families through town halls, and scheduled 3,184 White House and Capitol tours for constituents.\n\nMy team and I were pleased to introduce new ways to reach Team Thompson this year. Starting this summer, we launched regular office hours throughout our district to provide an easy way for community members to drop in and speak face-to-face with a member of my staff about any challenges or concerns they face. We look forward to hosting more office hours sessions in 2025.\n\nIf you or someone you know needs help with passports and visas, veterans benefits, IRS issues, agricultural issues, small business assistance, immigration, Medicare and Medicaid, or if you are facing any other problem navigating the federal government, my team is ready to help. Click here or call me at one of my offices to get started:\n\nNapa: (707) 226-9898\n\nSanta Rosa: (707) 542-7182\n\nWoodland: (530) 753-3501\n\nWashington: (202) 225-3311\n\nLegislative Update\n\nAs we close out the 118th Congress, I\u2019m proud to report that I secured $16,375,174 in federal funding for community projects across all five counties in our district. This congress, six of my bills were signed into law.\n\nIn 2025, I look forward to continuing my work to pass bipartisan, sensible legislation that will deliver for our district and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans.\n\nI plan to introduce legislation next congress to increase access to health care by expanding telemedicine, provide funding to research the causes of mental health issues, take on the gun violence epidemic, support veterans, address the housing shortage, protect agricultural producers from the impact of natural disasters, protect our public lands, and address the climate crisis. Working across the aisle is the best way to get things done, and I will continue to work with anyone who will help get these priorities signed into law.\n\nDelivering Long-Awaited Relief to Wildfire Victims\n\nPresident Biden signing into law my bill delivering tax relief to wildfire victims was a highlight of the 118th Congress.\n\nAs many of you know too well, federally declared wildfires in 2015, 2017, and 2018 devastated entire communities across our district and across the state of California.\n\nWhile the courts eventually created a path to compensation, victims were subjected to unfair taxes on their settlement money. That\u2019s why I worked across the aisle to draft and pass legislation providing tax relief to victims of federally declared disasters who face taxes on settlement money. The relief applies retroactively to qualified victims.\n\nWhile no fire victim can ever be made truly whole, this law will provide needed and deserved relief to thousands in our community and across our country.\n\nA look ahead to 2025\n\nMy priorities going into the 119th Congress remain the same: delivering for our district and helping every American live a healthy and successful life. I am committed to working with anyone in Congress to advance the issues that matter to our district.\n\nI am honored to represent California\u2019s Fourth District in Congress and look forward to continuing to serve our community in 2025.\n\nI wish you and your family a happy, peaceful, and prosperous new year.\n\nSincerely,\n\nMIKE THOMPSON\n\nMember of Congress", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-panettas-legislation-everett-alvarez-jr-congressional-gold-medal-act", "Rep. Panetta\u2019s Legislation,  the Everett Alvarez, Jr. Congressional Gold Medal Act  Signed into Law By President Biden", "2024-12-27", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jimmy Panetta", "P000613", "panetta.house.gov", "panetta", "https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Monterey, CA \u2013 United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) on President Joe Biden signing the Everett Alvarez, Jr. Congressional Gold Medal Act into law:\n\n\u201cI proudly join our community in California\u2019s 19th Congressional District and our nation in celebrating President Joe Biden\u2019s signing of the Everett Alvarez, Jr. Congressional Gold Medal Act into law. With this legislation, our country formally recognizes Commander Alvarez\u2019s unparalleled courage, resilience, and dedication to our democracy during his time as one of our nation\u2019s longest-serving prisoners of war.\n\n\u201cCommander Alvarez\u2019s unwavering spirit not only inspired his fellow POWs to \u201cReturn with Honor,\u201d but also continues to serve as a beacon of hope and determination for all Americans. This Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor bestowed by Congress, ensures that his legacy and the sacrifices of all POWs and their families are forever remembered.\n\n\u201cI extend my deepest gratitude to President Biden for signing this important legislation, Senator Alex Padilla for championing the bill in the Senate, and the co-leads Senator Cynthia Lummis and Representative Pat Fallon, as well as to my colleagues in Congress for their bipartisan support. I look forward to the medal\u2019s commissioning and the upcoming ceremony in our nation\u2019s Capitol, where we will collectively honor the life and legacy of an extraordinary Central Coast hero, Commander Everett Alvarez, Jr.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://robertgarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-robert-garcias-bipartisan-bill-cut-red-tape-save-taxpayer-dollars", "Congressman Robert Garcia\u2019s Bipartisan Bill to Cut Red Tape & Save Taxpayer Dollars Signed Into Law by President Biden", "2024-12-26", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Robert Garcia", "G000598", "robertgarcia.house.gov", "robertgarcia", "https://robertgarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42), Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Senator James Lankford (R-OK), and Congressman Glenn Grothman\u2019s (WI-06) bipartisan bill to cut waste and improve government service has been signed into law by President Biden. The legislation will increase government efficiency by eliminating unnecessary federal agency reports to Congress, saving taxpayer dollars and allowing agencies to focus on their core missions. The full text of the bipartisan law is available here. This is Congressman Garcia\u2019s second bill to be signed into law; President Biden signed the bipartisan GAO Inspector General Parity Act into law on November 25, 2024.\n\n\u201cOutdated government reports waste time and resources without providing value. Having seen this issue firsthand during my time as Mayor of Long Beach, I worked alongside colleagues from both parties to push for legislation that streamlines our government processes,\" said Congressman Garcia. \u201cI\u2019m committed to making our government agencies more efficient and ensuring responsible use of our taxpayer dollars.\u201d\n\n\u201cTaxpayer dollars are wasted on needless paperwork and red tape in the Federal government. We brought Republicans and Democrats together to cut waste and save taxpayer dollars,\u201d said Senator Ossoff.\n\n\u201cLess paper, more productivity. While most required reports to Congress from federal agencies are important, some provide less value than the paper they are printed on. But even as they\u2019ve long-outlasted their usefulness, they never seem to get cleared off agencies\u2019 must-do lists,\u201d said Senator Lankford. \u201cLet\u2019s save tax dollars and the time of federal workers to provide better and more effective customer service by eliminating these unnecessary yet mandatory reports.\u201d\n\n\u201cI was proud to introduce this bipartisan bill alongside my colleague, Congressman Robert Garcia (D-CA). By eliminating unnecessary reports, this bill will take a significant step toward improving government efficiency. This bill will lead to savings for taxpayers, ensuring that their hard-earned money is used more effectively to support essential services and programs,\u201d said Congressman Grothman. \u201cI am thrilled it has been signed into law by President Biden.\"\n\nThis bipartisan law will fix the broken process that decides which federal agency reports to Congress are no longer needed. The law will make it easier to reduce, combine, or stop certain reports that Congress requires, helping to cut wasteful federal spending and ensuring that agencies focus on their actual missions.\n\nCongressman Garcia continues working to cut red tape within the federal government. On the Oversight Committee, he helps to oversee the efficiency of all government operations. Last year, he introduced the \u201cFLASH Act\u201d Fast-Track Logistics for Acquiring Supplies in a Hurry Act of 2023, to help the Department of Health and Human Services cut through red tape to quickly buy critical medical materials during emergencies\u2014from PPE to tests and vaccines\u2014as well as the critical materials needed to make and distribute medical supplies.\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://desaulnier.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-mark-desaulniers-statement-house-ethics-committees-report", "Congressman Mark DeSaulnier\u2019s Statement on House Ethics Committee\u2019s Report on Former Congressman Matt Gaetz", "2024-12-23", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Mark DeSaulnier", "D000623", "desaulnier.house.gov", "desaulnier", "https://desaulnier.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) made the following statement upon release of the House Ethics Committee\u2019s report on the investigation into the conduct of former Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01).\n\n\"I believe strongly in the public\u2019s right to the findings of a bipartisan, taxpayer funded investigation, and that transparency and accountability are crucial for good governance and restoring trust in our institutions. For these reasons, it was imperative that this report was released. The report speaks for itself, and I believe the conduct outlined within disqualifies Mr. Gaetz from being entrusted to hold public office ever again.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://kamlager-dove.house.gov/media/press-releases/kamlager-dove-statement-president-bidens-commutation-nearly-all-federal-death", "Kamlager-Dove Statement on President Biden\u2019s Commutation of Nearly All Federal Death Row Inmates", "2024-12-23", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Sydney Kamlager-Dove", "K000400", "kamlager-dove.house.gov", "kamlager-dove", "https://kamlager-dove.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LOS ANGELES, CA \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) released the following statement on President Biden\u2019s decision to commute sentences for 37 individuals on federal death row:\n\n\"Our justice system is often unjust and inequitable, where due process and fairness tends to favor those with the skin color, bank account, and privilege to demand access to an impartial trial. Yet, change is happening\u2014the system is beginning to recognize that long periods of incarceration do not equate to rehabilitation, just more punishment without purpose. Still, too many individuals serve sentences vastly disproportionate to those delivered for the same offenses today.\n\n\"These unjustly harsh sentences not only fail to enhance public safety, but they also impose a heavy financial burden on taxpayers. The focus of extreme penalties has shifted away from rehabilitation and toward endurance of suffering, while court proceedings for lengthy sentences become procedural and costly\u2014up to $200,000 each time\u2014without producing meaningful outcomes.\n\n\u201cI applaud President Biden for exercising his authority and fulfilling his responsibility to grant these commutations. These actions transcend partisan lines and reflect a deep commitment to justice and human dignity. During this holiday season, they serve as a powerful reminder of the capacity for redemption\u2014a principle that we all deserve. Thankfully, we have a President who understands and upholds this ideal.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases/ep-mike-levin-honors-san-clemente-military-family-outreach-as-december-2024-constituents-of-the-month", "Rep. Mike Levin Honors San Clemente Military Family Outreach as December 2024 Constituents of the Month", "2024-12-23", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Mike Levin", "L000593", "levin.house.gov", "levin", "https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "San Clemente Military Family Outreach\n\nSan Clemente, CA \u2013 Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) announced Judith Franz, David Mauerman, Tina Inglish, Amy Miska, and the entire staff of San Clemente Military Family Outreach (SCMFO) as his December 2024 Constituents of the Month. Rep. Levin selected the organization for their ongoing support of service members and their families serving aboard Camp Pendleton.\n\nSee below for Rep. Levin\u2019s statement recognizing San Clemente Military Family Outreach in the Congressional Record:\n\n\"M. Speaker, I rise today to honor the incredible staff and volunteers of San Clemente Military Family Outreach as my December 2024 Constituents of the Month.\n\n\u201cFor nearly two decades, this organization has been a lifeline for military families in our community providing vital resources, financial assistance, and emotional support to those who sacrifice so much for our nation. Whether it\u2019s helping families put food on the table, providing baby supplies, or covering emergency expenses, the staff\u2019s compassion and commitment ensure that no military family feels left behind.\n\n\u201cDuring the holidays, their efforts are especially inspiring. Their annual holiday gift program has brought joy to hundreds of military children, demonstrating the true spirit of giving and community.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m deeply grateful for the work San Clemente Military Family Outreach does every day to honor the service of our military members by supporting their families. They truly exemplify the best of our community, and we are better because of it.\u201d\n\nABOUT THE CONSTITUENT OF THE MONTH PROGRAM:\n\nRep. Levin\u2019s Constituent of the Month program recognizes outstanding North County San Diego and South Orange County residents who have gone above and beyond to help their neighbors, give back to their community, and represent the best of our country. Rep Levin\u2019s November 2024 Constituent of the Month was Oceanside Police Chief Taurino Valdovinos, and his October 2024 Constituent of the Month was Dwight Worden.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/thompson-padilla-lamalfa-press-swift-implementation-law-deliver-tax-relief", "THOMPSON, PADILLA, LAMALFA PRESS FOR SWIFT IMPLEMENTATION OF LAW TO DELIVER TAX RELIEF FOR WILDFIRE SURVIVORS", "2024-12-23", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Mike Thompson", "T000460", "mikethompson.house.gov", "mikethompson", "https://mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Today, Representative Mike Thompson (D-CA-04) and U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Representative Doug LaMalfa (R-CA-01) released a letter urging the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to take immediate actions to implement their bipartisan legislation providing critical tax relief for wildfire victims. President Biden recently signed the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act into law.\n\nThe Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act supports the nearly 70,000 survivors who suffered significant losses during three major federally declared California fires in 2015, 2017, and 2018 who have received related settlement payments, as well as future recipients of other wildfire settlements related to federally declared fires.\n\nMany California wildfire survivors have already been taxed on their settlement payments, with some even losing access to certain federal benefits as a result of their compensation wrongly being considered income. The requests outlined by Thompson, Padilla, and LaMalfa are instrumental in delivering the full relief these wildfire survivors deserve.\n\n\u201c[M]any Californians that received compensation have already been taxed on these payments in previous calendar years. This has significantly and unfairly hindered their ability to rebuild after devastating loss,\u201d wrote the lawmakers. \u201cNow that President Biden has signed this bill into law, the IRS must take every action available to provide clarity and guide taxpayers through the changes to the tax treatment of such payments.\u201d\n\n\u201cCalifornians who have suffered inconceivable losses as a result of utility-caused wildfires have waited too long for tax relief,\u201d continued the lawmakers. \u201cWe appreciate your attention to this matter, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that wildfire survivors have access to their full settlements and federal benefits.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the lawmakers recommended that the IRS take the following urgent steps in implementing Section 3 of the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act:\n\nPrioritize the drafting and approval of FAQs: The lawmakers asked the IRS to quickly finalize relevant FAQs so that impacted taxpayers can begin applying for refunds.\n\nMake necessary technical changes to IRS\u2019 systems: Sec. 3(e) of the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act extends the period of limitation for credit or refund claims allocable to the exclusion of settlement payments to one year after the date of enactment. To implement this, the IRS must make technical updates to process applications and issue approved refunds online.\n\nMaximize community outreach and education: The lawmakers requested the IRS provide targeted outreach and work with community partners to ensure that all eligible taxpayers are aware of these tax code changes.\n\nEnsure all federal benefits are restored: Many wildfire survivors who would have otherwise qualified for certain federal benefits were wrongfully denied because their income was artificially inflated from the settlement payments. The lawmakers urged the IRS to ensure taxpayers are also made whole on federal benefits, such as Affordable Care Act premium assistance and Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit payments.\n\nFull text of the letter is available here and below:\n\nDear Secretary Yellen and Commissioner Werfel:\n\nAs members of the California delegation representing wildfire survivors that have received settlement payments for losses suffered during the three major California fires in 2015, 2017, and 2018, we write to urge the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to take immediate action on implementing Section 3 of the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act. President Biden recently signed our legislation to exempt such compensation from gross income for income tax purposes.\n\nAs you know, our tax code fails to clarify that disaster settlement funds, which are already insufficient in covering the full cost of losses, are neither income nor asset. Unlike those impacted by the fires that ravaged southern Oregon and Maui, many Californians that received compensation have already been taxed on these payments in previous calendar years. This has significantly and unfairly hindered their ability to rebuild after devastating loss. Now that President Biden has signed this bill into law, the IRS must take every action available to provide clarity and guide taxpayers through the changes to the tax treatment of such payments. Specifically, we ask that you:\n\nPrioritize the drafting and approval of FAQs: Our understanding is that the provisions in this bill are self-enacting and do not require Department of the Treasury or IRS rulemaking. In order for impacted taxpayers to begin the refund process as soon as possible and receive the funding necessary to finance continued recovery, we ask that the IRS expedite the development of relevant FAQs.\n\nMake necessary technical changes to IRS\u2019 systems: Sec. 3(e) extends the period of limitation for credit or refund claims allocable to the exclusion of settlement payments to one year after the date of enactment. The IRS should make the necessary technical changes to current systems to allow for the processing of applications and issuance of approved refunds online. This will be critical for allowing a seamless and quick return process to put money back in the hands of wildfire survivors.\n\nMaximize community outreach and education: Successful implementation of this bill will require targeted outreach to impacted taxpayers so that all eligible individuals are made aware of these changes to the tax code. The IRS must utilize every available resource to train and work in collaboration with community partners to ensure that all eligible taxpayers are able to submit refund applications.\n\nEnsure all federal benefits are restored: Those who would have otherwise qualified for certain federal benefits administered by the IRS were denied because their gross income was artificially inflated as a result of the settlement payments. The IRS should ensure that, in filing for credit or refund, taxpayers also receive retroactive federal benefits (e.g., Affordable Care Act premium assistance, Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit payments, etc.) from these taxable years. We also ask that IRS work with other federal agencies to ensure taxpayers can apply for any non-IRS administered benefits.\n\nCalifornians who have suffered inconceivable losses as a result of utility-caused wildfires have waited too long for tax relief. We appreciate your attention to this matter, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that wildfire survivors have access to their full settlements and federal benefits.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://sarajacobs.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-sara-jacobs-celebrates-2024-accomplishments", "Rep. Sara Jacobs Celebrates 2024 Accomplishments", "2024-12-23", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Sara Jacobs", "J000305", "sarajacobs.house.gov", "sarajacobs", "https://sarajacobs.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "This year, Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) delivered for San Diego by bringing home millions of taxpayer dollars and expanding access to child care and housing for military families.\n\nRep. Sara Jacobs said: \u201cThis has been a tough year for our community and our country. Our politics feel more divided than ever, but despite all of the chaos in Washington, I\u2019ve shown that we can still get things done. My team assisted over 1,400 San Diegans who needed help getting answers from federal agencies and returned over $23 million to my constituents. I brought home millions of federal dollars to address the most pressing issues facing San Diego from the Tijuana River Valley crisis to our immigration challenges. And I\u2019m so proud of my work to help live up to the promises that we\u2019ve made to our service members and military families by raising their pay, expanding access to child care and housing, and empowering them to decide for themselves if, when, and how to build their families. Heading into 2025, I will continue working with anyone to deliver for our community and challenging our traditional thinking about how things have always been done because the status quo isn\u2019t working for so many people.\u201d\n\nRep. Sara Jacobs\u2019 Accomplishments in 2024 Include:\n\nHer office helped 1,439 San Diegans who needed assistance with federal agencies\n\nHer office returned over $23 million to San Diegans who were entitled to backpay from the VA, tax refunds, Social Security reimbursements, and more\n\nShe brought home $406 million in federal funds to upgrade and repair the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant to address the Tijuana River Valley crisis \u2013 one of the community\u2019s most urgent public health and safety issues\n\nShe secured $82 million in federal funds for San Diego non-profits to prevent street releases and treat migrants and asylum seekers with dignity and respect\n\nShe secured a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5% pay raise for all other service members\n\nShe eliminated co-pays for birth control for service members and their dependents\n\nShe championed the effort to reimburse active duty service members for the cost of freezing their eggs and sperm\n\nShe helped expand military access to child care and reduce the military child care waitlist in San Diego that\u2019s recently been up to 4,000 spots long by redesigning and modernizing how the Department of Defense staffs and pays their child care workers, eliminating child care fee assistance wait lists by fully funding child care fee assistance programs, and covering 100% of the child care fees for the first child of a child care provider\n\nShe helped expand access to and improve the quality of military housing \u2013 especially for junior enlisted service members \u2013 by expanding Commanding Officers\u2019 authorization of the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)\n\nShe passed the bipartisan Fourth Amendment Is Not For Sale Act \u2013 legislation that she co-leads to prevent law enforcement and intelligence agencies from buying American\u2019s personal information without a warrant \u2013 through the House\n\nShe passed the bipartisan Return Home to Housing Act \u2013 legislation that she co-leads to provide more veterans with safe, transitional housing \u2013 through the House\n\nShe secured a direct flight to and from Washington, D.C.\u2019s Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) and San Diego, helping San Diego\u2019s military community travel efficiently to the Pentagon and strengthening San Diego\u2019s status as a binational tourist destination. Prior to this change, San Diego was the largest passenger market located outside the perimeter without non-stop service to DCA.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://bera.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-ami-bera-votes-for-continuing-resolution-to-avert-government-shutdown", "Rep. Ami Bera Votes for Continuing Resolution to Avert Government Shutdown", "2024-12-21", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Ami Bera", "B001287", "bera.house.gov", "bera", "https://bera.house.gov/news", "scraper", "\u201cThe chaos and dysfunction of the last few days would have been avoided if Speaker Johnson honored the deal he made with Democrats to keep the government open, provide relief to Americans still reeling from natural disasters, fund childhood cancer research, extend the Farm Bill to support American agriculture, strengthen America\u2019s national security posture, and support other vital programs.\n\n\u201cWhile this legislation does not include several key provisions in the original bill, I voted for it because the cost of shutting down the government is far too high and the need to deliver billions in disaster relief to communities in California recovering from extreme weather events is far too great.\n\n\u201cA government shutdown would hurt hardworking Sacramento County families, damage our economy, interrupt vital services, endanger our national security, and force millions of our brave servicemembers and government employees to work without a paycheck.\n\n\u201cGoing into the closely divided 119th Congress, we must work together to govern through bipartisanship and compromise\u2013\u2013 not brinksmanship via tweet. As I prepare for another term serving as your voice in Washington, I will do everything in my power to ensure stable and responsible governance that prioritizes the needs of the American people.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://fong.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vince-fongs-statement-hypersonic-flight-test-yesterday", "Rep. Vince Fong\u2019s Statement on Hypersonic Flight Test Yesterday", "2024-12-21", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "CA", "Vince Fong", "F000480", "fong.house.gov", "fong", "https://fong.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\u201cStratolaunch makes history with its first fully reusable hypersonic flight test of the Talon A-2 vehicle which took off yesterday from the Mojave Air and Space Port, located in California\u2019s 20th District. Our region continues to lead the way for America to explore, test, and advance new flight technologies \u2013 from Chuck Yeager\u2019s test flight breaking the sound barrier almost 80 years ago to NASA\u2019s X-59 quiet supersonic flight engine testing last month. This historic flight signifies a new era of hypersonic flight technology, where traveling at faster speeds may soon become a reality thanks to American entrepreneurship and innovation, and I enjoyed learning more about next steps from Stratolaunch when I visited Mojave last week. Congratulations to Zack Krevor and the Stratolaunch team on this incredible accomplishment!\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mike-levin-announces-2024-congressional-app-challenge-winner", "Rep. Mike Levin Announces 2024 Congressional App Challenge Winner", "2024-12-21", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Mike Levin", "L000593", "levin.house.gov", "levin", "https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "The Icon for FindFoodPantries, the Winner of Rep. Levin\u2019s Congressional App Challenge\n\nOceanside, CA \u2013 Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) announced Justin Tam as the winner of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for California\u2019s 49th Congressional District. The local high school student created FindFoodPantries, an app which creates a central directory for locating nearby food banks to help address food insecurity. Justin was inspired to create the app after volunteering and coming face to face with the issue in his community.\n\n\u201cBuilding an app from scratch is no small feat. It\u2019s incredible to see all the time and effort our students put in to create programs that help their communities,\u201d said Rep. Levin. \u201cCongratulations to Justin for winning this year\u2019s challenge. This issue of food insecurity is a growing problem in California, and his app helps us take one step closer to ensuring everyone has the food and nutrition they need.\u201d\n\nThe second-place winner is Matthew Martono whose app, Plum: Grocery Price Tracker, allows users to compare grocery prices across nearby stores.\n\nThe third-place winner is Gary Wang, whose app, Foreign Language Pro, helps users practice a foreign language by watching their favorite shows and engaging videos while providing helpful vocabulary and knowledge tests.\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge was launched in 2015 as an effort to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education, and to encourage students to learn coding and computer science skills. Students in participating congressional districts compete against their peers by creating original software applications. Winning apps are featured on the U.S. House of Representatives\u2019 website, the Congressional App Challenge\u2019s website, and are also displayed in an exhibit in the U.S. Capitol Building.\n\n##", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://barragan.house.gov/2024/12/20/rep-barragan-celebrates-passage-of-outdoors-for-all-act-in-senate-as-part-of-explore-act/", "Rep. Barrag\u00e1n Celebrates Passage of Outdoors for All Act in Senate as part of EXPLORE Act", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nanette Diaz Barrag\u00e1n", "B001300", "barragan.house.gov", "barragan", "https://barragan.house.gov/news", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\n19 December 2024\n\nContact: Kevin G. McGuire | 202-538-2386\n\nKevin.mcguire@mail.house.gov\n\nWASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44) celebrated the passage of her bill, the Outdoors for All Act, in the Senate, as part of the bipartisan Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act. The bill now heads to the President Biden\u2019s desk for his signature.\n\nThe Outdoors for All Act, authored by Congresswoman Barrag\u00e1n and first introduced in the 116th Congress, codifies the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program in federal law and modernizes the program to include smaller cities, tribes, and to fully account for the benefits parks provide. The ORLP supports urban parks in underserved communities.\n\nIn the 118th Congress, the bipartisan bill was introduced with Congressman Michael Turner and Senators Alex Padilla and Susan Collins.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m thrilled that the EXPLORE Act, which includes my Outdoors for All Act is on its way to the President\u2019s desk,\u201d said Rep. Barrag\u00e1n. \u201cI\u2019ve worked hard the last five years to get this done. The Outdoors for All Act ensures that millions of Americans, particularly those in underserved communities and communities of color, will have improved access to green spaces. Growing up in the Harbor Gateway, I had to take a bus to travel to a park for baseball practice \u2013 a reality for too many low-income families nationwide. By passing Outdoors for All, we are making a lasting commitment to fund urban parks and bring the benefits of green space to communities that need them most.\u201d\n\n\u201cFamilies and visitors in the Miami Valley deserve to enjoy all the beautiful parks, trails, and recreational spaces that the Dayton region has to offer. With this legislation, we preserve access and increase the opportunity for additional federal investment in these green spaces,\u201d said Congressman Turner. \u201cI\u2019m proud to see my bipartisan, bicameral \u2018Outdoors for All Act\u2019 included in the EXPLORE Act which will protect and enhance opportunities for residents to get outside and enjoy the incredible outdoor resources that make the Dayton region such a special place to live, work, and raise a family.\u201d\n\n\u201cEveryone deserves access to the outdoors regardless of where they live. Having grown up in Los Angeles, I\u2019ve seen firsthand how urban and low-income communities often lack access to adequate park space,\u201d said Senator Padilla. \u201cThe Outdoors for All Act will invest in new parks and open spaces \u2014 and upgrade existing ones \u2014 to bring critical natural benefits like shade, tree cover, and cleaner air to urban neighborhoods.\u201d\n\nThe ORLP program is important for California\u2019s 44th District and Los Angeles County, where half of Los Angeles County\u2019s population lives in neighborhoods without access to parks and open space, with the majority of high-need areas concentrated in low-income communities of color.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://carbajal.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3097", "Senate Unanimously Approves Rep. Carbajal\u2019s Bill to Rename Santa Maria Post Office in Honor of Mayor Larry Lavagnino", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Salud O. Carbajal", "C001112", "carbajal.house.gov", "carbajal", "https://carbajal.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Yesterday, the U.S. Senate approved by unanimous consent Congressman Salud Carbajal\u2019s (CA-24) bill to rename the U.S. Post Office on E. Battles Road in Santa Maria in honor of Larry Lavagnino, the City\u2019s former Mayor, City Councilmember, and longtime resident.\n\n\u201cEvery community should be so lucky to have a Larry Lavagnino,\u201d said Rep. Carbajal. \u201cA community champion such as Mayor Lavagnino is well deserving of recognition that will stand the tests of time \u2013 and I am proud as Santa Maria\u2019s Representative in Congress to be the author of this legislation that will help cement that recognition.\u201d\n\n\"I'm deeply honored and humbled,\u201d said Mayor Larry Lavagnino. \u201cI know there are many more deserving of this recognition but I am also very excited for my entire family. I only wish my mom and dad were around to witness this.\"\n\n\u201cMoving any piece of federal legislation isn't easy so I'm extremely grateful to Salud and his staff for getting this through Congress. I can't wait to see my dad's face when we finally unveil the new sign,\u201d said Supervisor Steve Lavagnino.\n\nThe measure now heads to President Biden\u2019s desk for his signature before becoming law.\n\nCongressman Carbajal spoke on the House floor in favor of his legislation prior to its passage, lauding Mayor Lavagnino\u2019s decades of service to Santa Maria. Those remarks can be viewed here.\n\nLarry Lavagnino served as Mayor of Santa Maria from 2002 to 2012, and as a Member of the Santa Maria City Council from 1996 to 2002.\n\nDuring his time as Mayor, Santa Maria saw a significant number of improvements and additions, including a new library, multiple new fire stations, a new transit center, a new police department building, the expansion of the city\u2019s wastewater treatment plant, and the widening of Santa Maria River Bridge and Highway 101.\n\nOn top of the above improvements during his tenure, Mayor Lavagnino was also able to help secure more than $46 million in federal funding for improvements to the Santa Maria River Levee, which protects thousands of homes and businesses in the area. He also helped bring about the Abel Maldonado Youth Center, which continues to provide a safe and welcoming space for teens.\n\nLavagnino is a graduate of Santa Maria Union High School and Allan Hancock College, and still lives four houses down from the Santa Maria home where he grew up.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://carbajal.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3098", "Rep. Carbajal Votes to Prevent Harmful Government Shutdown, Protecting Disaster Relief for Californians", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Salud O. Carbajal", "C001112", "carbajal.house.gov", "carbajal", "https://carbajal.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Rep. Salud Carbajal (CA-24) voted today on a clean extension of government funding that averts a costly government shutdown.\n\n\u201cAfter days of bending to the will of unelected billionaires and the chaotic whims of the President elect, Republicans have moved forward a deal similar to the one they killed earlier this week Sadly, this chaos in governing has further become the norm for Republican leadership, and its unpredictability has real consequence for American businesses and Central Coast families,\u201d said Rep. Carbajal.\n\n\u201cWhile far from perfect, I supported this stopgap measure to keep our government functioning and prevent further harm. I hope my colleagues on the other side of the aisle can spend the holidays reflecting on how to put their constant infighting aside for the sake of the people we serve.\u201d\n\nThe funding resolution passed this evening by the U.S. House of Representatives sustains current government funding levels through March 14, 2025. The measure now advances to the Senate, where it is expected to pass and reach the President\u2019s desk.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://chu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-chu-house-democrats-vote-avert-government-shutdown", "Rep. Chu, House Democrats Vote to Avert Government Shutdown", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Judy Chu", "C001080", "chu.house.gov", "chu", "https://chu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) issued a statement after the House of Representatives voted to pass H.R. 10545 - American Relief Act, 2025. Rep. Chu voted yes on the legislation, which would fund the federal government through March 14th and provide disaster assistance to victims across the country, including in California:\n\n\u201cAfter days of Republican brinksmanship and threats to shut down the government at the behest of unelected billionaire Elon Musk and, later, Donald Trump, Democrats once again stepped in to provide the majority of votes to prevent a catastrophic government shutdown right before the holidays. While this legislation falls far short of the bipartisan agreement that Democrats and Republicans struck earlier this week, it would provide much-needed disaster relief to victims across the country, including in my district, which is recovering from the devastating Bridge Fire. And, it would ensure that servicemembers and federal employees are not forced to miss a paycheck just days before the holiday season. For these reasons, I voted yes.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://fong.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vince-fongs-statement-house-passage-american-relief-act-2025", "Rep. Vince Fong\u2019s Statement on House Passage of the American Relief Act, 2025", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "CA", "Vince Fong", "F000480", "fong.house.gov", "fong", "https://fong.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Rep. Vince Fong (CA-20) issued the following statement after the House passed the American Relief Act, 2025 by a vote of 366-34-1.\n\n\u201cIt bears repeating that this last-minute funding mess is a direct result of Senator Schumer and the Senate refusing to pass any appropriations bills this year. Having to respond to hurricanes and agricultural relief, House Republicans worked with incoming President-elect Trump to take necessary action. Efforts will continue to achieve additional savings, more economic growth, and the elimination of wasteful spending with a new Administration and Republican majorities in the House and Senate in the new year. I look forward to continuing to partner with the Trump-Vance Administration in tackling our nation\u2019s most pressing challenges.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://garamendi.house.gov/media/press-releases/garamendi-statement-fy25-cr", "Garamendi Statement on FY25 CR", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "John Garamendi", "G000559", "garamendi.house.gov", "garamendi", "https://garamendi.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC\u2014Today, U.S. Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-08) released the following statement following the release of the Continuing Resolution (CR).\n\n\u201cHouse Republicans at the order of Elon Musk and Donald Trump, torpedoed a bipartisan and bicameral deal that would have funded the government and provided much needed disaster relief to California communities. They replaced it with a one-sided scheme to grease the skids for a $2 trillion tax cut for wealthy billionaires.\n\nThe bill before us was not negotiated or discussed in any way with the Democratic Leadership in the House, the Senate or the White House. Suspending the debt limit opens the door for Trump and the Republican Congress to pass a $2 trillion tax cut for the super wealthy that will explode the deficit.\n\nLet me be clear: we had a deal, but Elon Musk and Donald Trump killed it. House Republicans, one day before the government loses funding are trying to push through a bill that will provide a $2 trillion dollar tax cut for the super wealthy. Because of House Republicans refusal to pass the original bipartisan and bicameral bill to keep the government funded, they are putting our country on the brink of a government shutdown and setting the stage to explode the deficit with another tax cut for the super wealthy. This Trump-Musk shutdown isn\u2019t just a political failure, it\u2019s a callous attempted to give their super-wealthy donors a huge tax cut.\n\nInstead of working across the aisle to find common ground and protect the American people, these Republicans are bending to the will of Elon Musk and Trump, whose interests have nothing to do with the well-being of everyday Americans. Musk and Trump\u2019s influence over House Republicans is crystal clear, and its hardworking families across America who will suffer the consequences.\n\nThe choice is simple: Will Republicans stand with the American people, or will they continue to dance to the tune of billionaire puppet masters? It\u2019s time for them to stop playing games, accept the original deal and start governing for the good of the country. Let\u2019s hold them accountable before we all pay the price. The American people deserve better than this.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://issa.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-issa-introduces-landmark-legislation-stop-misuse-ai-generated", "Congressman Issa Introduces Landmark Legislation to Stop the Misuse of AI-Generated Digital Replicas", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "CA", "Darrell Issa", "I000056", "issa.house.gov", "issa", "https://issa.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48), Chairman of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet, introduced the Preventing Abuse of Digital Replicas Act (PADRA), landmark legislation to protect the voice, image, and likeness of individuals from being used commercially in unauthorized ways. He is joined by Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Chairman of the House Artificial Intelligence Task Force, and Congressman Ben Cline (VA-6), a member of both the Subcommittee and the Task Force.\n\n\u201cAs AI continues its integration into every facet of our lives, its inherent perils and potential become more evident by the day,\u201d said Rep. Issa. \u201cPADRA ensures that innovators and creators can protect their voice, image, and likeness from unauthorized use and establishes a new and better way to keep and defend what inherently belongs to each of us.\u201d\n\nThis bill represents a crucial step toward safeguarding personal identity in the age of AI and defines a baseline of federally recognized protections against clear misuses of digital replicas.\n\nSpecifically, PADRA will:\n\nFor the first time under federal law, target the commercial misuse of digital replicas of individuals\u2019 identifying characteristics, such as their likeness or voice.\n\nProtect the public from the deceptive use of digital replicas to confuse consumers about an individual\u2019s endorsement or affiliation with a product, service, or other commercial activity.\n\nAdapt and strengthen existing trademark law under the Lanham Act, minimizing uncertainty about scope, process, and court interpretation by utilizing well-understood regimes for remedies, jurisdiction and evidentiary issues.\n\nEmpower individuals to enforce their own rights against bad actors without the need for new federal government authority or bureaucracy, imposing essentially no costs to U.S. taxpayers and avoiding burdensome regulations that would hinder U.S. innovation or competitiveness in AI technology.\n\nPADRA embodies the culmination of Rep. Issa\u2019s work on the issue of digital replica misuse with AI technology in the 118th Congress as Chairman of the Subcommittee and a senior member of the AI Task Force. This introduction is a critical step toward the important work that will continue at the start of the next Congress.\n\n\u201cWith the rapid rise of generative artificial intelligence, we are witnessing an alarming increase in the use of digital replicas to mislead consumers,\u201d Congressman Ben Cline said. \u201cThe use of deepfakes to mislead the public, as seen with figures like Tom Hanks and Lainey Wilson, is completely unacceptable. That\u2019s why I am proud to support the Preventing Abuse of Digital Replicas Act (PADRA). This vital legislation empowers individuals to protect their identities and holds offenders accountable for their deceitful actions. We must continue to combat this growing threat and ensure the integrity of our digital landscape.\"\n\n\u201cThe introduction of the Preventing Abuse of Digital Replicas Act is a crucial step toward protecting Americans from the misuse of fraudulent digital replicas, safeguarding both individual identity and consumer trust,\u201d said Rep. Obernolte. \u201cPADRA strikes the right balance by proposing a robust federal framework that prevents exploitation, supports victims, and preserves our First Amendment rights. In a rapidly changing digital age, this bill ensures that innovation does not come at the cost of integrity or personal freedom.\u201d\n\nThe bill text can be found here.\n\nWhat Industry Leaders and Other Stakeholders Are Saying About PADRA:\n\nScott Belsky, Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Vice President, Design & Emerging Products, Adobe\n\n\u201cCongressman Issa\u2019s Preventing Abuse of Digital Replicas Act (PADRA) is a critical step in ensuring the responsible use of AI-generated content. Adobe has been advocating for a federal anti-impersonation right that can help protect creators and combat bad actors who use AI to mimic an artist\u2019s style for commercial gain. We all share a responsibility to ensure this technology is developed and deployed in a way that benefits everyone and are encouraged by the momentum around thoughtful legislative solutions like PADRA, which aims to address the commercial misuse of AI and safeguard the intellectual property of the creative community. We believe that solutions work best when they are built off of input from the community they are intended to protect, and Adobe remains committed to advocating for policies that support artists and empower them to thrive in the age of AI.\u201d\n\nBusiness Software Alliance\n\n\"BSA urges Congress to take steps against the spread of unauthorized AI-generated digital replicas that harm artists, performers, and other creators. BSA commends Congressman Issa for introducing the Preventing Abuse of Digital Replicas Act (PADRA), which advances the debate over how best to ensure that every artist, performer, and creator is protected under federal law from unfair acts of digital replication.\"\n\nMitch Glazier, Chairman and CEO of RIAA\n\n\u201cWe thank Chairman Issa for his commitment to protecting artists against the use of digital replicas that steal their voice and likeness for false product endorsements and other trademark violations. We look forward to working with him in the new Congress to improve protections while preserving current Federal and State trademark statutes that protect consumers against harmful deep fakes. These protections, along with those in the NO FAKES Act, will support and recognize ethical AI development, while preventing real harm.\u201d\n\nMotion Picture Association\n\n\u201cThe Motion Picture Association appreciates Congressman Issa\u2019s effort to combat deceptive uses of digital replicas with the Preventing Abuse of Digital Replicas Act (PADRA). The misuse of highly realistic depictions of an individual\u2019s image, voice, and likeness can confuse and deceive consumers. We look forward to working with Congressman Issa on the important goal of protecting Americans from such marketplace harms, while preserving the First Amendment rights of filmmakers, journalists, and other creators.\u201d\n\nDr. Richard James Burgess, President and CEO, A2IM (American Association of Independent Music)\n\n\u201cIndependent labels invest decades in developing artists\u2019 unique brands and fanbases\u2014assets generative AI can exploit with disturbing ease. PADRA, introduced by Chairman Issa, addresses critical issues around responsible AI use. Misleading fakes not only mimic voice and likeness but also the distinct artistic essence of an artist\u2019s work, and this bill breaks new ground with recognition of that truth. A2IM looks forward to working next Congress on bills like PADRA and the NO FAKES Act to safeguard creators and ensure fairness in the digital age.\u201d\n\nSongwriters of North America\n\n\u201cThe Songwriters of North America applaud Congressman Issa\u2019s leadership on bringing the complicated discussion surrounding AI to the forefront on Capitol Hill. Creators need guardrails to help respect and protect our work in the digital age. The Protecting Abuse of Digital Replicas Act (PADRA) is an important step to help ensure responsible behavior around the fair and authorized use of our music.\u201d\n\nAmerican Society for Collective Rights Licensing\n\n\u201cThe American Society for Collective Rights Licensing, Inc., (ASCRL), is the largest visual materials trade organization in the United States, representing over 50,000 illustrators and photographers with published works. ASCRL wishes to thank you and your staff for the important work being done with the preventing Abuse of Digital Replica's Act (PADRA).\u201d\n\nProfessional Photographers of America\n\n\u201cThe Professional Photographers of America (PPA) join in supporting \u201cThe Preventing Abuse of Digital Replicas Act\u201d (PADRA) and look forward to working with Chairman Issa and the Committee to protect professional photographers and other small creators from abuses caused by the scraping of their images through Generative AI. On behalf of PPA\u2019s 35,000 professional photographer members, we thank the Chairman for his leadership at this crucial time when Generative AI is threatening the very livelihood of visual artists.\u201d\n\nConcept Art Association\n\n\u201cConcept Art Association is pleased to support PADRA. With fraudulent digital replicas on the rise, due to the emergence of generative artificial intelligence (genAI); artists and consumers everywhere are being bamboozled by a tidal wave of swindling and deception. Advancing the interests of and ability for Americans everywhere, including those in the creative industries, to assert their rights is not only essential, but a moral imperative if we are to protect the lifeblood of American ingenuity.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://juliabrownley.house.gov/brownley-announces-winners-of-the-2024-congressional-app-challenge/", "Brownley Announces Winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Julia Brownley", "B001285", "juliabrownley.house.gov", "juliabrownley", "https://juliabrownley.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) announced Benjamin Xie and Mihir Bamdhamravuri as the winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for California\u2019s 26th Congressional District. The students created Sentinel, an integrated web application that monitors and detects wildfires to improve safety and reduce emergency response times.\n\n\u201cEvery year, the Congressional App Challenge underscores the creativity of our district\u2019s young innovators. I want to congratulate Benjamin and Mihir on the development of their app, Sentinel, which is forward-thinking and designed to improve wildfire prevention, emergency response efforts, and public safety. This app turns ordinary surveillance devices into a proactive fire monitoring and detection network. Apps like these can help prevent the spread of wildfires and keep communities safe by enabling faster detection and timely intervention, and guiding emergency response to prevent tragedy,\u201d said Congresswoman Brownley.\n\n\u201cI also want to congratulate all the students who took part in the Congressional App Challenge. This year, students submitted apps that address an array of issues including support for disabled veterans in accessing online resources and a tool to provide real-time feedback for dancers with special needs,\u201d continued Brownley. \u201cEvery year, I am impressed by the collection of applications we receive, and this year was no exception. We are so fortunate to have such promising innovators in our district.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith over 7,000 fires in California last year alone, quick detection and response are vital to protecting lives and property. Wildfires not only destroy homes, but also displace thousands of people, devastate wildlife, and place a tremendous strain on emergency services. Sentinel uses computer vision to utilize existing camera networks, giving fire departments and first responders the real-time tools they need to assess wildfire threats faster. Looking ahead, we\u2019re excited about future opportunities to collaborate with fire departments and expand access to this technology. Our goal is to empower them to respond more effectively and reduce the damage caused by these fires. In the future, we hope to solve many more similar issues,\u201d said Benjamin Xie and Mihir Bamdhamravuri, the first-place winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge.\n\n\u201cThis is an amazing accomplishment for Benjamin, Mihir, and Westlake High School,\u201d said Jason Branham, Principal of Westlake High School. \u201cI am constantly in awe of not only the talent for our students, but also the thoughtfulness that our students display. Creating an app that assists with fire detection and monitoring to provide improved safety and reduced response time is truly remarkable. I would like to extend my congratulations to Benjamin and Mihir and am confident that they will continue this type of great work in the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cTechnology is constantly changing. Being able to adapt to these changes at an early age gives our students the extra advantage they will need when they pursue STEM majors in college and STEM careers upon graduation from college. The technology base that these competitions creates will support our country maintaining our world-wide technological advantage,\u201d said Dr. Ramon Flores, Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) Outreach Coordinator for the Naval Surface Warfare Center Port Hueneme Division at Naval Base Ventura County and judge of the Congressional App Challenge.\n\nBelow are the video submissions for the first, second, and third-place winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge:\n\n1st Place: Sentinel, created by Benjamin Xie and Mihir Bamdhamravuri\n\n2nd Place: Veteran Assistant, created by Akshith Chalamalasetty\n\n3rd Place: The Magic Mirror for Dance, created by Yequi Huang\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge is a competition organized by Members of Congress across the country for middle school and high school students to create their own software applications and gain experience with computer coding.\n\nSubmissions from students across the 26th Congressional District were judged by a panel of local judges who work within the academic, software, and entrepreneurial fields. This year\u2019s submissions were judged by Terry Theobald, Chief Information Officer for the County of Ventura; Joaquin Licea, Chief Technology Officer for the Ventura County Office of Education; Dr. Ramon Flores, Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) Outreach Coordinator for the Naval Surface Warfare Center Port Hueneme Division; and Dr. Michael Soltys, Computer Science Professor at California State University, Channel Islands.\n\nTo learn more about the Congressional App Challenge, visit\n\nhttps://juliabrownley.house.gov/services/the-house-student-app-challenge/\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://kamlager-dove.house.gov/media/press-releases/kamlager-dove-statement-government-funding-legislation", "Kamlager-Dove Statement on Government Funding Legislation", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Sydney Kamlager-Dove", "K000400", "kamlager-dove.house.gov", "kamlager-dove", "https://kamlager-dove.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) released the following statement after voting \u2018yes\u2019 to keep the government open:\n\n\"Once again, Democrats had to rescue Speaker Johnson and his dysfunctional Republican Majority from their own ineptitude. Today marked the fifth time Democrats swooped in to save the day and keep the government open this Congress alone. Yet, we had to do so begrudgingly\u2013this was not our original deal.\n\n\"A bipartisan group of lawmakers reached an imperfect but fair agreement to fund the government and rebuild communities, and we were prepared to vote on it. Then, in the blink of a tweet, the deal was dead. President-elect Musk\u2019s tantrum tanked the bipartisan bill while Vice President Trump\u2019s arbitrary demand for a debt-ceiling increase just pushed us closer to a government shutdown.\n\n\"I am here to do what\u2019s best for my constituents, plain and simple. That means keeping vital services running and ensuring federal workers\u2013including our service members\u2013get their paychecks, especially during the holiday season. That means providing disaster relief to those in need and supporting our farmers who keep our country fed. That\u2019s why I voted yes on today\u2019s government funding bill.\n\n\"But make no mistake: this is just the beginning. The original, bipartisan Continuing Resolution would have lowered prescription drug costs, strengthened workforce development programs, funded childhood cancer research, and more. These provisions should have been passed, and I will keep fighting to ensure they reach the finish line. Further, I will continue combating the outsized influence of rogue billionaires like Elon Musk and exposing the gross incompetence of the House Republican Majority. This can never happen again.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mike-levins-statement-on-vote-for-the-2025-short-term-government-funding-bill", "Rep. Mike Levin\u2019s Statement on Vote for the 2025 Short-Term Government Funding Bill", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Mike Levin", "L000593", "levin.house.gov", "levin", "https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.- Tonight, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) released the following statement regarding his final vote for the 2025 short-term government funding bill.\n\n\u201cI just voted for a bill to fund the government and avoid a catastrophic shutdown right before the holiday season.\n\n\u201cDemocrats prevailed over the demands of Elon Musk and Donald Trump.\n\n\u201cTime and time again, Democrats have been the adults in the room to prevent House Republicans from enacting dangerous and misguided policy that will hurt everyday Americans.\n\n\u201cWe avoided Republicans\u2019 attempts to increase the debt ceiling and greenlight tax breaks for billionaires like Elon Musk, and we brought home $250 million for the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant to help clean up the Tijuana River Valley pollution crisis.\n\n\u201cBut make no mistake, this bill does not include everything it should have, and Speaker Johnson has broken all trust with the Democratic Caucus. Assuming Johnson remains Speaker, I hope that he learns that the only way to get real work done for the American people with a paper-thin majority is on a bipartisan basis.\u201d\n\n##", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://matsui.house.gov/media/press-releases/matsui-statement-vote-avoid-government-shutdown-0", "MATSUI STATEMENT ON VOTE TO AVOID GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Doris O. Matsui", "M001163", "matsui.house.gov", "matsui", "https://matsui.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), issued the following statement after the House passed a government funding bill to prevent a shutdown.\n\n\u201cToday, I voted to prevent a devastating shutdown and keep the government funded,\u201d said Congresswoman Matsui. \u201cThis is a victory for the American people. This package contains a one-year farm bill extension, necessary health extenders, as well as $110 billion in disaster relief. And importantly, no debt ceiling lift to give Donald Trump a blank check in the new year. Government shutdowns have real consequences for everyday Americans, working families, seniors, and veterans. That\u2019s why despite the chaos caused by my Republican colleagues, House Democrats have stepped up to deliver for the American people and keep critical programs up and running.\u201d\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/thompson-eshoo-carbajal-morelle-thanedar-napa-schools-climate-action-lead", "THOMPSON, ESHOO, CARBAJAL, MORELLE, THANEDAR, NAPA SCHOOLS FOR CLIMATE ACTION LEAD CLIMATE RESTORATION RESOLUTION", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Mike Thompson", "T000460", "mikethompson.house.gov", "mikethompson", "https://mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Today, Reps. Mike Thompson (CA-04), Anna Eshoo (CA-16), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Joseph Morelle (NY-25), and Shri Thanedar (MI-13), alongside students from Napa Schools For Climate Action, announced House Resolution 1563 which formally recognizes Congress\u2019 responsibility to restore a healthy climate for future generations.\n\n\"As the impacts of climate change continue to affect communities across the nation, it is more critical than ever that we take bold action to protect our planet and future generations,\" said Rep. Thompson. \"This resolution sends a clear message that the Congress must prioritize climate restoration and work to ensure a sustainable future. Thank you to my colleagues and Napa Schools for Climate Action for collaborating on this resolution.\"\n\n\u201cThis Resolution is an important reminder that lawmakers carry responsibility to protect future generations instead of saddling them with messes we created. Ensuring that future generations have a healthy climate should be a top priority for every member of Congress,\u201d said Rep. Eshoo.\n\n\u201cAs a father and a grandfather, I see the world through the eyes of the next generations of my own family and the billions of other young people who will inherit this planet from us to do extraordinary things. It is critical for us to leave them a world that is just as fertile for their own adventures and achievements. The task of delivering the gift of opportunity to our next generation falls to the leaders of today, and I'm proud to join my colleagues to recommit our chamber to this indispensable task,\u201d said Rep. Carbajal.\n\n\u201cIn my community of Rochester, New York, we\u2019ve seen scorching summers, freezing winters, torrential lake effect snowfalls, and more\u2014and unless we take action, these extreme weather events will only get worse,\u201d said Rep. Morelle. \u201cThis resolution demonstrates our commitment the bold action and all-hands-on-deck approach required to combat the climate crisis. I\u2019m grateful to Rep. Thompson and my colleagues who have come together to protect the future of our planet.\u201d\n\n\u201cClimate Restoration is a critical factor in how we will end the climate catastrophe. If we just cut down our greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by the 2030 deadline, what do we do with the existing atmospheric pollution that remains? This is where Climate Restoration comes in, as its reliable, scalable, and permanent biomimetic ways can capture existing atmospheric pollution away forever. Knowing that Climate Restoration can take us to a world of complete sustainability has been an incredible light of hope for me, alleviating my climate anxiety and motivating me to spark such an incredible project as House Resolution 1563 as President of the Napa Schools for Climate Action Organization,\u201d said Liliana Karesh, President of Napa Schools for Climate Action.\n\n\u201cReducing emissions, even if it's done quickly, is no longer enough to stop the destructive impacts underway as a result of legacy heat-trapping pollution. Restoring atmospheric CO2 to safe, pre-industrial levels is now a crucial complement to achieving net zero GHG emissions goals,\u201d said Jim Wilson of Napa Climate NOW! \u201cI'm very grateful for the student leaders who have persisted in calling for an end to the climate emergency, and for this Resolution that ensures them that Congress is committed to restoring a safe and healthy climate for them.\u201d\n\nThis House resolution, written in partnership with Napa Schools For Climate Action, calls for actions to restore CO2 levels to pre-industrial levels below 300 ppm, a goal that will require removing one trillion tons of CO2 from the atmosphere over the next 20 years. It emphasizes the importance of leveraging natural carbon sequestration methods and supporting emerging technologies to help achieve this critical goal. It also is a precondition for intergenerational climate justice, as young people will suffer the worst effects of climate breakdown.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/thompson-releases-statement-houses-continuing-resolution", "THOMPSON RELEASES STATEMENT ON HOUSE\u2019S CONTINUING RESOLUTION", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Mike Thompson", "T000460", "mikethompson.house.gov", "mikethompson", "https://mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington \u2013 Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) released the following statement on the House\u2019s passage of a Continuing Resolution:\n\n\u201cTonight, I voted to avoid a potentially disastrous government shutdown ahead of the holidays.\n\n\u201cSince October, Democrats and Republicans negotiated in good faith to develop a bipartisan bill to fund our government. Republicans set the total amount of funding in the bill. Yet hours before we were set to pass that bill, Elon Musk and President-elect Trump intervened to kill it.\n\n\u201cI am disappointed that the Continuing Resolution passed tonight was not the negotiated Republican bill that Democrats agreed to support.\n\n\u201cHowever, I am pleased that the Continuing resolution Democrats helped pass includes critical disaster funding and funding for lifesaving fire breaks in our state.\n\n\u201cThe Resolution also includes my bill to extend telehealth coverage benefits so that all Medicare beneficiaries retain access to critical services. Since my days in the California State Senate, I\u2019ve been a big believer in telehealth\u2019s ability to save money, time, and lives, and today\u2019s telehealth extension ensures continued access to care for millions of Americans.\n\n\u201cAs important, this bill did not extend a $4 trillion line of credit to President-elect Trump and Elon Musk so they could extend tax cuts to billionaires at the expense of Social Security and Medicare.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://ruiz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-dr-raul-ruizs-statement-agreement-fund-government", "Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz's Statement on the Agreement to Fund the Government", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Raul Ruiz", "R000599", "ruiz.house.gov", "ruiz", "https://ruiz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25) releases the following statement after voting to pass H.R. 10545, the American Relief Act of 2025.\n\n\u201cToday, I voted to prevent a catastrophic government shutdown and to support our hardworking families, veterans, and seniors. While this bill is not perfect, I will continue fighting to ensure workers are paid, vital programs are funded, and our communities are not left behind. To break through the gridlock in Washington, we must work together to find solutions to our nation\u2019s most pressing issues,\" said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://scottpeters.house.gov/press-releases/rep-peters-votes-to-keep-government-open-invest-another-250-million-to-fight-cross-border-sewage", "Rep. Peters Votes to Keep Government Open,  Invest Another $250 Million to Fight Cross-Border Sewage", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Scott H. Peters", "P000608", "scottpeters.house.gov", "scottpeters", "https://scottpeters.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Today, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50) released the following statement after voting to keep the government open, provide much-needed disaster aid to hard-hit communities across the country, and completely fund the repair and expansion of the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant (SBIWTP) to stop the flows of polluted cross-border sewage:\n\n\"While there were some bumps along the road, we arrived at a deal that keeps the government open and doesn\u2019t punish the American people for Washington\u2019s dysfunction during the holidays. I much preferred the original deal, which would have delivered more benefits to our communities while cutting government spending by lowering prescription drug prices. This ordeal will make it difficult to trust them the next time we have an agreement. However, I could not in good conscience allow the perfect to be the enemy of the good; the price would have hurt the livelihoods of millions of military servicemembers, federal employees, and contractors. As a co-chair of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum, I am glad we also removed the irresponsible debt limit increase that would have gotten Republicans off the hook for their costly and reckless tax cut for the wealthy.\n\n\"Just a few months ago, we broke ground on the project to fix and expand the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant \u2014 now we will have the money to finish the job. San Diegans have been calling on the federal government to put an end to this crisis for years, and today\u2019s accomplishment is a credit to their advocacy. It is long overdue, and won\u2019t happen overnight, but our community will see the results as these fixes are completed and Mexico also improves its wastewater infrastructure. We must continue to monitor and study how this pollution hurts people in affected communities. I will be zealously monitoring the progress of repairs to ensure we are never in this position again.\"\n\nThe legislation, which passed the House tonight, goes to the Senate next, before it goes to President Biden for his signature.\n\nThe government funding bill includes $250 million for repairs and expansion of the SBIWTP. The funding for the dilapidated plant, which treats polluted water flowing from Mexico, results from Rep. Peters\u2019 years of work to convince his colleagues, congressional leadership, and the President of the urgent need to fix this horrible problem. This surge in federal investment will fully fund the repairs and expansion needed to double the wastewater treatment plant\u2019s capacity and combat cross-border pollution that fouls our beaches, sickens San Diegans, hurts our economy, and reduces our military preparedness.\n\nIn September, Rep. Peters and Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) led a request to congressional leadership for these exact funds to repair and upgrade the SBIWTP in any upcoming disaster relief funding package. These funds build on the $400 million the Congressional delegation has previously secured and include money for unexpected expenses and contingencies.\n\nFurther Background:\n\nRepresentative Peters has, for years, worked to address the cross-border pollution fouling San Diego\u2019s coastal waters, including pushing for additional funding to fix and expand the dilapidated SBIWTP. The following are some recent actions:\n\n2024\n\nIn January, Rep. Peters took to the House floor to demand that the President\u2019s requested $310 million to fix and expand the dilapidated SBIWTP be included in any upcoming spending deal.\n\nIn February, Rep. Peters joined members of San Diego\u2019s Congressional delegation to ask U.S. Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro about the effects of cross-border pollution on Navy operations.\n\nIn March, Rep. Peters celebrated the inclusion of $156 million, at his request, for the International Boundary and Water Commission\u2019s (IBWC) construction budget in the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations bill. The IBWC is the federal agency tasked with operating and maintaining the SBIWTP.\n\nIn May, Rep. Peters joined Rep. Veronica Escobar (TX-16) in a bipartisan request for $278 million for the IBWC\u2019s construction budget in the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations bill.\n\nIn August, Rep. Peters hosted Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma on a tour of the broken wastewater treatment plant.\n\nIn September, Rep. Peters joined members of San Diego\u2019s Congressional delegation to reiterate their call for a federal state of emergency declaration amid high levels of toxic gases.\n\n2023\n\nIn June, Rep. Peters led a letter with other members of the San Diego Congressional delegation to the governor of Baja California urging accountability for the Mexican government\u2019s commitments to build wastewater treatment infrastructure.\n\nIn July, members of the San Diego congressional delegation requested that the Environmental Protection Agency assist with directing environmental justice funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act to help stop the flow of pollutants and urged Secretary of State Antony Blinken to tour the broken plant.\n\nAlso in July, they sent a letter to President Biden and submitted an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024, calling on the administration to declare this crisis a federal emergency.\n\nIn August, he led two letters to the Office of Management and Budget and to OMB and the State Department, calling for urgent additional funding to confront this crisis.\n\nIn September, he proposed an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024 Interior, Environment, and Related Programs Appropriations Bill to boost U.S.- Mexico Border Water Infrastructure Grant Program funding. Additionally, he proposed two amendments to the Fiscal Year 2024 State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Bill to boost annual construction funding to the USIBWC to $100 million.\n\nIn October, Rep. Peters led a bipartisan letter to the Department of State demanding a complete account of how the SBIWTP fell into such a severe state of disrepair.\n\nIn December, he led a letter urging leaders of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate to include President Biden\u2019s $310 million supplemental budget request to repair the SBIWTP in any upcoming funding package.\n\nIn 2021, the San Diego Congressional delegation secured $300 million in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to fund an expansion of the SBIWTP from 25 million gallons per day (mgd) to 50 mgd. This funding, in combination with Fiscal Year 2024 funding, has supported the planning, study, and design of projects critical for the rehabilitation and expansion of SBIWTP. However, last year, we learned that significantly more funding is needed to rehabilitate the plant before the IBWC can expand it.\n\nIn previous years, Peters and colleagues have secured funding, introduced legislation, called for investigations, and arranged a visit by EPA Administrator Regan in response to the wastewater contamination crisis.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sherman-government-shutdown-averted", "Congressman Sherman: \"Government Shutdown Averted\"", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Brad Sherman", "S000344", "sherman.house.gov", "sherman", "https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. -- On December 20th, Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32) issued the following statement after the House passed a funding bill just hours before the current federal funding deadline:\n\nThe good news is that the government will not shutdown.\n\nYesterday, I sent out a description of what would happen in the event of a government shutdown. In a last-minute compromise that received a large bipartisan majority, I voted to keep the government open and a short-term funding bill has passed the House. While this bill must now pass the Senate, I expect that bill to pass soon and for no delay in government services to affect my constituents.\n\nThe bad news is that we had the opportunity to pass over a dozen pieces of important legislation that both Republicans and Democrats agreed to, but these were stripped from the spending bill for purely political reasons. These provisions had been in the Tuesday version of the bill \u2013 but were removed at the insistence of Trump and Musk.\n\nDonald Trump and Elon Musk killed the bipartisan compromise spending bill, which would have included:\n\n\u2022 Funding for pediatric cancer research\n\n\u2022 Reforms to pharmacy benefit managers to lower prescription drug prices\n\n\u2022 Reauthorization of Meals on Wheels nutrition assistance for seniors\n\n\u2022 Treatment for pregnant and postpartum women\n\n\u2022 Improving and simplifying access to veterans\u2019 benefits\n\n\u2022 Banning hidden fees in concert and event ticket sales\n\n\u2022 Sanctioning Haitian crime lords\n\n\u2022 Restrictions on Americans investing in high-tech companies in China\n\nIt is possible that Elon Musk demanded the removal of more than a dozen provisions to conceal his real objective, the removal of one provision that restricted American investment in high-tech enterprises in China.\n\nIn any case, the bill which we passed, will keep the government open until mid-March.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-torres-votes-to-prevent-government-shutdown-supports-critical-investments-for-ca-35", "Congresswoman Torres Votes to Prevent Government Shutdown, Supports Critical Investments for CA-35", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Norma J. Torres", "T000474", "torres.house.gov", "torres", "https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Norma J. Torres (CA-35), a senior member of the Appropriations committee that oversees all federal funding, voted in favor of a bipartisan Continuing Resolution (CR) to keep the federal government open and ensure essential services continue for families across the nation. The legislation includes robust funding to address disaster relief, key health programs, and child care that benefit the Inland Empire. This bill also includes no extension of the debt limit.\n\n\u201cYet again, Democrats had to rescue the American people from another disastrous Republican government shutdown. This vote was about keeping our government open and protecting families across the Inland Empire and the nation affected by recent natural disasters,\u201d said Rep. Torres. \u201cUnlike the failed, Musk-led Republican efforts prior, this bill delivers much needed disaster recovery funds, strengthens child care, and supports economic growth across the country without giving President-elect Donald Trump a blank check to drive our nation deeper into debt. The 11th hour crisis we\u2019ve witnessed this week is a warning sign of the chaos to come if Speaker Johnson, the incoming President, and their puppeteer, Elon Musk don\u2019t learn to govern with a bipartisan majority going forward. The American people deserve better.\u201d\n\nKey Investments in the CR:\n\nDisaster Relief: $100 billion for disaster relief, including:\n\n$29 billion for FEMA\u2019s Disaster Relief Fund.\n\n$12 billion for Community Development Block Grants and $8 billion for emergency road and bridge projects.\n\n$1.5 billion for Army Corps of Engineers projects, including water infrastructure improvements.\n\n$50 million annually through 2027 for the Drinking Water Infrastructure Risk and Resilience Program to protect water systems from cyber-attacks.\n\nSupporting Families:\n\n$500 million for child care assistance.\n\nOver $1 billion for community care clinics.\n\n\u201cThis CR is an important step, but it\u2019s not the end of the road,\u201d said Rep. Torres. \u201cWe must continue to fight for long-term solutions that address the climate crisis or we will continue to see a ballooning disaster budget and must ensure families have the resources they need to thrive.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Torres remains committed to responsible governance that delivers results for CA-35 and the nation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://chu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-chu-warns-impending-republican-government-shutdown", "Rep. Chu Warns of Impending Republican Government Shutdown", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Judy Chu", "C001080", "chu.house.gov", "chu", "https://chu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) issued a statement on the impending Republican shutdown of the federal government on Saturday:\n\n\u201cWith the ink barely dry on a bipartisan deal between Speaker Johnson and Congressional Democrats to fund the federal government and provide relief to natural disaster victims all over America, self-designated President Elon Musk \u2013 an unelected billionaire and world\u2019s richest man \u2013 ordered a government shutdown that will hurt working people all across this country. Donald Trump, Speaker Johnson, and House Republicans heard their marching orders and reneged on a deal that would avert a government shutdown and help disaster victims from California to North Carolina, Florida to Vermont. Without the natural disaster funds in the bipartisan agreement, my district, which suffered from the catastrophic Bridge Fire, will lose out on the $75 million dollars for California to provide the fire breaks in forests that can stop wildfires. And without a government funding agreement before Saturday, a Republican government shutdown will mean our servicemembers both home and abroad will have to work the holidays without pay, Americans trying to get home to see family will face chaos and delays at airports as TSA agents go without pay, and small business owners just trying to survive will lose access to federal loans. Food and water safety will be at risk, national parks will close, and Meals on Wheels deliveries will halt.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://correa.house.gov/news/press-releases/correa-introduces-house-companion-to-hawley-legislation-to-end-unfair-airline-practices", "CORREA INTRODUCES HOUSE COMPANION TO HAWLEY LEGISLATION TO END UNFAIR AIRLINE PRACTICES", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "J. Luis Correa", "C001110", "correa.house.gov", "correa", "https://correa.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "The End Airline Extortion Act Would Protect Americans from Predatory Airline Practices\n\nWASHINGTON \u2014 Today, Representative Lou Correa (CA-46), the top Democrat on the House Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust introduced the End Airline Extortion Act, a companion bill to Senator Josh Hawley\u2019s legislation in the Senate, which would protect Americans from predatory airline practices regarding fares and additional fees.\n\n\u201cToday, hard-working taxpayers in every corner of the country\u2014and right here in Orange County\u2014are being charged different prices for the same flights, and that\u2019s wrong,\u201d Correa said. \u201cFliers deserve price transparency and should not be subject to junk fees or surprise charges. I\u2019m proud to join in this fight alongside Senator Hawley, and will do everything in my power to get this long overdue, bipartisan effort across the finish line.\u201d\n\nThe End Airline Extortion Act would:\n\nProhibit airlines from paying commission or other incentives to employees if they require passengers to pay additional fees for baggage, seating, or other services as a condition of boarding a flight.\n\nBan discriminatory pricing by barring airlines from using personal characteristics\u2014such as sex, family status, or disability status\u2014as a basis for charging higher prices for fares or fees to passengers on the same flight.\n\n\u201cAirline companies treat their customers like cattle. It\u2019s offensive. They charge fliers different prices for the same flights \u2013 and sometimes different prices for bags and carry-ons. Now they\u2019re paying their employees bounties to harass customers trying to get on the plane. It\u2019s wrong. And frankly, it needs to be illegal,\u201d Senator Hawley said when introducing this legislation last week.\n\nYou can read the full text of this legislation HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://correa.house.gov/news/press-releases/correa-votes-against-partisan-continuing-resolution", "CORREA VOTES AGAINST PARTISAN CONTINUING RESOLUTION", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "J. Luis Correa", "C001110", "correa.house.gov", "correa", "https://correa.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Today, Representative Lou Correa (CA-46) voted against a rushed, partisan government funding bill, and released the following statement:\n\n\u201cYesterday, Democrats and Republicans had reached a deal that protected food stamps for seniors and other Americans, lowered health care costs, invested in cancer research, and defended consumers from deceptive business practices. Yet none of that was included in the bill we voted on just moments ago,\u201d Correa said.\n\nCompared to yesterday\u2019s bipartisan agreement, the Continuing Resolution (CR) that just failed to pass the House floor:\n\nRemoved a bill banning AI-generated deepfake nonconsensual pornography sharing\n\nRemoved funding for research on premature labor (birth)\n\nRemoved funding for treatment of sickle cell disease\n\nRemoved funding for breast and cervical cancer early detection\n\nRemoved a program for down syndrome research\n\nRemoved restrictions on US investments in China\n\nRemoved Medicare coverage for multi-cancer early detection screening\n\nRemoved Pharmacy Benefit Manager reforms, which would have led to lower drug costs\n\nRemoved requirements for Medicare Advantage plans to keep a public directory of covered providers\n\nRemoved consumer protection provisions (hotel price transparency and ticketing transparency)\n\nRemoved protections for food stamp beneficiaries who are victims of fraud\n\nRemoved funding for orphaned programs not included in Farm Bill\u2019s baseline\n\nRemoved a partial offset to Medicare physician payment cuts\n\nRemoved updates to funding formula for 9/11 responders and survivors health program\n\n\u201cThis bill would also suspend the debt ceiling for two years, increasing the national debt to prepare for a major tax cut whose final details and beneficiaries are still undetermined,\u201d Correa continued. \u201cThis is why many Republicans joined Democrats in voting \u2018no\u2019 on this bill. Let\u2019s get back to work in good faith.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://fong.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vince-fongs-statement-continuing-resolution-fund-government-through-march", "Rep. Vince Fong\u2019s Statement on the Continuing Resolution to Fund the Government through March", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "CA", "Vince Fong", "F000480", "fong.house.gov", "fong", "https://fong.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Rep. Vince Fong (CA-20) issued the following statement after the \u201cAmerican Relief Act\u201d was voted on by the House tonight and failed to pass by a vote of 174-235-1.\n\n\u201cI had serious concerns with the first CR introduced with the extraneous and questionable provisions that were jammed inside and which I simply could not support. Clearly, we need more transparency in our government. Because of the inaction by Senator Schumer and the Senate who refused to pass any appropriations bills this year, it has created this last-minute mess, holding needed disaster and agricultural relief hostage so the Democrats could obtain many questionable provisions. The new CR agreement - the American Relief Act - focused on the basics and was the first of many steps to change how Washington works. Unfortunately, Democrats have chosen to ignore the needs of the American people right before Christmas and the holiday season and caused the bill to fail. I am hopeful we will come to an agreement that will allow us to tackle our nation\u2019s most pressing challenges and, along with the Trump-Vance Administration, Make America Great Again.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://garamendi.house.gov/media/press-releases/garamendi-kelly-senators-young-and-kelly-introduce-ships-america-act", "Garamendi, Kelly, Senators Young and Kelly, Introduce SHIPS for America Act to Revitalize US Shipbuilding and Commercial Maritime Industries", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "John Garamendi", "G000559", "garamendi.house.gov", "garamendi", "https://garamendi.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC\u2014 Today, Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-08) introduced the SHIPS for America Act alongside Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Senator Todd Young (R-IN), and Rep. Trent Kelly (R-MS-01) in response to the urgent need to bolster America's maritime industry. The bill aims to revitalize the U.S. Merchant Marine to transport vital goods and military cargo during times of conflict while reinforcing American supply chains in peacetime.\n\nCurrently, about 80 U.S.-flagged ships are engaged in international commerce compared to over 5,500 China-flagged vessels. U.S. shipyards' growing industrial base cannot produce oceangoing vessels at scale. In addition to this supply chain gap, there is an increasing demand for qualified mariners. This legislation entails a comprehensive strategy to address these critical disparities by seeking to ensure national oversight and consistent funding for the maritime industry, enhance the competitiveness of U.S.-flagged vessels, rebuild the U.S. shipyard base, and expand efforts to recruit, train, and retain skilled mariners and shipyard workers.\n\n\u201cFor far too long, the United States neglected our maritime industries and the critical role they play in our national and economic security \u2013 this ends with the SHIPS for America Act. I have spent over ten years working to revitalize the U.S. maritime industry in order to strengthen our national economy, create good-paying American jobs, and support our national security during peacetime or war. This bill represents the most substantial and comprehensive approach to have America compete and lead globally, and I\u2019m proud to lead it alongside Senator Kelly, and Senator Young. Today, less than 200 oceangoing ships fly the American flag, the SHIPS for America Act will empower our shipyards and marine merchants to uphold our country\u2019s status as a leader in the maritime industry.\u201d - Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA-08).\n\nWith China\u2019s growing influence in the global maritime sector, strengthening the U.S. Merchant Marine is essential for maintaining U.S. dominance in international commerce. In times of conflict, the U.S. Merchant Marine will be vital for transporting goods and military cargo, while in peacetime, it will fortify supply chains and ensure economic resilience. The introduction of this bill represents a strategic effort to rebuild the U.S. maritime industry, securing both national security and global competitiveness.\n\nThe SHIPS for America Act contains the following legislation authored or co-sponsored by Representative Garamendi:\n\nH.R.9348, Justice for Victims of Foreign Vessel Accidents Act\n\nH.R.2373, Rebuilding the United States-Flag International Fleet Act\n\nH.R.874, Federal Ship Financing Improvement Act\n\nH.R.6724, Energizing American Shipbuilding Act of 2023\n\nH.R.1044, Maritime Fuel Tax Parity Act\n\nA section-by-section summary of the bill can be found here.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe SHIPS for America Act would:\n\nCoordinate U.S. maritime policy by establishing the position of Maritime Security Advisor within the White House, who would lead an interagency Maritime Security Board tasked with making whole-of-government strategic decisions for how to implement a National Maritime Strategy. The bill also establishes a Maritime Security Trust Fund that would reinvest duties and fees paid by the maritime industry into maritime security programs and infrastructure supporting maritime commerce.\n\nEstablish a national goal of expanding the U.S.-flag international fleet by 250 ships in 10 years by creating the Strategic Commercial Fleet Program, which would facilitate the development of a fleet of commercially operated, U.S.-flagged, American crewed, domestically built merchant vessels that can operate competitively in international commerce.\n\nEnhance the competitiveness of U.S.-flagged vessels in international commerce by establishing a Rulemaking Committee on Commercial Maritime Regulations and Standards to cut through bureaucracy and red tape within the Coast Guard that limits the international competitiveness of U.S.-flagged vessels, requiring that government-funded cargo move aboard U.S.-flag vessels, and requiring a portion of commercial goods imported from China to move aboard U.S.-flag vessels starting in 2029.\n\nExpand the U.S. shipyard industrial base, for both military and commercial oceangoing vessels, by establishing a 25 percent investment tax credit for shipyard investments, transforming the Title XI Federal Ship Financing Program into a revolving fund, and establishing a Shipbuilding Financial Incentives program to support innovative approaches to domestic shipbuilding and ship repair.\n\nAccelerate U.S. leadership in next-generation ship design, manufacturing processes, and ship energy systems by establishing the U.S. Center for Maritime Innovation, which would create regional hubs across the country.\n\nMake historic investments in maritime workforce by establishing a Maritime and Shipbuilding Recruiting Campaign, allowing mariners to retain their credentials through a newly established Merchant Marine Career Retention Program, investing in long-overdue infrastructure needs for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and supporting State Maritime Academies and Centers for Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education. The bill also makes long-overdue changes to streamline and modernize the Coast Guard\u2019s Merchant Mariner Credentialing system.\n\nSee what maritime leaders and stakeholders are saying about the SHIPS for America Act:\n\n\u201cThe US maritime eco-system, which includes, but is not limited to, the US flag Merchant Marine, has suffered from over three quarters of century of neglect, mismanagement, and consequent dramatic decline. This has resulted in a serious national and economic security vulnerability, especially compared to the corresponding robust Chinese national effort to dominate the maritime domain. That vulnerability has remained hidden, and ignored, until now. This legislation is a bold first step in reversing that vulnerability. It took over 75 years to fall to our current state of affairs, and it will likewise take time and a dedication of national will to remedy it, but the stakes are too high and consequences of failure too grave to continue on the current path. This essential legislation sets the policy course upon which we must embark to actually be the world\u2019s foremost maritime power that is our nation\u2019s birthright,\u201d said U.S. Marine Management President Stephen M. Carmel.\n\n\u201cThis legislation will create the favorable environment needed by the builders, investors, and technologists who stand ready to strengthen America\u2019s maritime industry. This thoughtfully crafted bill combines the vibes of re-vitalization with tangible tax incentives that define reality for industry,\u201d said Blue Water Autonomy Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer Austin Gray.\n\n\u201cThe American Maritime Congress (AMC) enthusiastically supports the SHIPS for America Act as a cornerstone of our nation's future national and economic security. For nearly half a century, AMC has advocated and educated the American public and its political leadership on the critical role of the U.S. merchant marine -- the SHIPS for America Act is a historic opportunity for our great nation to once again prosper while increasing national security,\u201d said American Maritime Congress President Fair Kim.\n\n\u201cThe Seafarers International Union wholeheartedly supports the Ships for America Act, an extraordinary piece of legislation that stands to revitalize, strengthen and sustain our nation\u2019s maritime industry. The Ships for America Act addresses critical gaps in shipbuilding, maritime workforce development, and the modernization of our commercial fleet. It is a bold step toward ensuring that the United States maintains a robust and competitive maritime presence, which is essential for both economic and national security. In my 51 years of working in this industry, I have not seen any legislation as comprehensive and impactful as the Ships for America Act. I urge labor and industry to join us in supporting this long-overdue bill, as it not only honors the legacy of our maritime industry but also paves the way for its future growth and sustainability,\u201d said Seafarers International Union President David Heindel.\n\n\u201cThe carriers, unions and associations belonging to the USA Maritime Coalition strongly support the SHIPS for America Act. This comprehensive maritime policy initiative will ensure our country has the U.S.-flag shipping capability and the American mariners needed to both support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the Department of Defense and to enhance and protect our nation's economic security by increasing the carriage of America's foreign trade on U.S.-flag commercial vessels,\u201d said R. Christian Johnsen, Chair, USA Maritime.\n\n\u201cThe Masters, Mates & Pilots strongly supports the SHIPS for America Act. This comprehensive and pragmatic maritime policy initiative will create and support jobs for American mariners, ensuring that our country has the maritime manpower needed to protect and enhance our nation's economic and military security,\u201d said Captain Don Marcus, President, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P).\n\n\u201cOn behalf of our U.S.-flag shipping company members, I want to express our strong support for the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act. This legislation, the most comprehensive and far-reaching maritime policy initiative to be considered by Congress in decades, will revitalize America's maritime industry, thereby enhancing its role as our nation's fourth arm of defense. We urge all Members of Congress concerned about the growing influence and domination of China in the international shipping arena to join with the sponsors of this legislation in order to strengthen and protect America's economic and military security,\u201d said C. James Patti, President, Maritime Institute for Research and Industrial Development (MIRAID).\n\n\u201cThe Navy League applauds the introduction of the SHIPS for America Act, a landmark legislative achievement that will comprehensively meet the needs of the U.S. merchant marine and bolster our shipbuilding industrial base. In today's global threat environment, arguably the most perilous since the end of the Cold War, the United States must not only maintain the finest Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard on the seas, but also ensure a robust U.S.-flag merchant marine and a resilient shipbuilding industrial base. These elements are crucial for safeguarding our national and economic security in the event of large-scale military conflict. The SHIPS for America Act addresses these vital considerations and reaffirms that America is, and always will be, a maritime nation,\u201d Navy League CEO Mike Stevens.\n\n\u201cThe International Propeller Club is a steadfast advocate for the SHIPS for America Act. Our nation\u2019s maritime industry is at a critical crossroads. This comprehensive maritime policy initiative will protect and enhance foreign policy, national security, and economic prosperity through increased U.S.- flag shipping capability and a revitalization of the domestic shipbuilding industry,\u201d said Maria Conatser, International President, International Propeller Club.\n\n\u201cThe Maritime Accelerator for Resilience authors of ZERO POINT FOUR strongly endorse the Ships for America Act to revitalize the U.S. international fleet, U.S. shipbuilding, and the U.S. maritime workforce. Our national maritime security includes national security, economic security, food and energy security, climate security and American workforce security. This legislation begins to address our sad state of having only 180 seagoing U.S. flagged commercial ships compared to the 55,000+ global foreign owned, foreign crewed, foreign government-controlled ships (0.4%). Enacting the SHIPS for America Act will motivate U.S. private investment and public focus to capture enormous untapped opportunities and improve our maritime competitiveness\u201d said Jim and book co-authors, retired USCG (confirming).\n\n\u201cAt a time of increasing national security maritime threats from China and other actors, the U.S. must take decisive action to support our critical maritime industry and grow the next generation of licensed civilian mariners who are key to our economic and national security. The SHIPS for America Act is a critical piece of legislation that will strengthen the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base, make us a stronger nation in times of war and in times of peace, and allow the United States to project power at the time and place of our choosing. I applaud this bipartisan effort that will ensure our global maritime leadership and presence,\u201d said Vice Adm. (Ret.) Michael J. Duont, JD, Interim President, The California State University Maritime Academy.\n\n\u201cThe SHIPS for America Act is a transformative piece of legislation that will bolster the United States\u2019 commercial competitiveness and military readiness on the high seas. Not only will this bipartisan bill protect existing jobs in maritime and allied trades, but it will lead to a renaissance of the American maritime workforce. The Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO offers our full support of this legislation,\u201d said Mark A. Clements, Jr., Executive Secretary Treasurer of the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO.\n\n\u201cSenator Kelly, Senator Young, and Congressman Garamendi deserve recognition for their work on this legislation and appreciation for their leadership on this issue. This is the first comprehensive maritime policy legislation in many years, and it offers tangible assistance to all sectors of the maritime industry with the goal of expanding the U.S. Flag Ocean-going fleet. If enacted, the legislation would support major recapitalization of the shipbuilding infrastructure in the United States and provide substantial incentives for the purchase of U.S.-built vessels. It would have a long-term positive impact on Philly Shipyard and other shipbuilders in the United States,\u201d said Philly Shipyard, Inc.\n\n\u201cThe U.S.-flag carriers of American Maritime Officers Service (AMOS) strongly support the SHIPS for America Act. This critical legislation introduced by Senator Mark Kelly and Senator Todd Young will bolster the U.S. Merchant Marine fleet, ensuring the security and safety of maritime operations vital to national defense and economic stability. By expanding the number of U.S.-flagged vessels, the SHIPS for America Act will strengthen our maritime workforce and enhance our nation\u2019s readiness for global challenges. We commend Senator Kelly and Senator Young for their leadership and dedication to a strong American maritime industry,\u201d said the American Maritime Officers Service.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://issa.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-issa-ip-hearing-explores-key-role-seps-us-competition-prc", "Chairman Issa IP Hearing Explores Key Role of SEPs in U.S. Competition with PRC", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "CA", "Darrell Issa", "I000056", "issa.house.gov", "issa", "https://issa.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Yesterday, Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48), Chairman of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet, held a hearing to discuss the role of standard essential patents (SEPs) in U.S. competition with the People\u2019s Republic of China (PRC).\n\nThe hearing, part four covering strategic competition with China this Congress, investigated how American businesses and innovators are impacted by SEP policies and manipulative licensing practices in China. The hearing focused on the PRC\u2019s misuse of courts and technical processes, including by \u201cstacking the deck\u201d at standard-setting organizations (SSOs) and other abusive tactics aimed to undermine U.S. technological leadership in global infrastructure.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s hearing was another chapter in the work we have done to examine and explain how the PRC manipulates global IP systems to gain an unfair advantage over the inventors and creators in America who follow the law and play by the rules,\u201d said Rep. Issa. \u201cFor years, the PRC has weaponized the standard-setting process and licensing practices to favor its own technologies and sideline American inventors. This lawfare threatens our country\u2019s businesses, markets, and economic leadership, and we must address it head-on to guarantee a level playing field and a fair fight.\u201d\n\nWitnesses for today\u2019s hearing included:\n\nWalter Copan, PhD, Vice President for Research and Technology Transfer, Colorado School of Mines\n\nKent Baker, Head of IP Strategy, Litigation & Licensing, u-blox America, Inc.\n\nThomas Cotter, Taft Stettinius & Hollister Professor of Law, University of Minnesota Law School\n\nMark Cohen, Edison Fellow, Antonin Scalia School of Law, George Mason University", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://kamlager-dove.house.gov/media/press-releases/kamlager-dove-bipartisan-group-lawmakers-issue-joint-statement-condemning", "Kamlager-Dove, Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers Issue Joint Statement Condemning Venezuelan Regime\u2019s Siege of the Argentine Embassy in Caracas", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Sydney Kamlager-Dove", "K000400", "kamlager-dove.house.gov", "kamlager-dove", "https://kamlager-dove.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) joined Western Hemisphere Subcommittee Chairwoman Mar\u00eda Elvira Salazar (FL-27), Ranking Member Joaquin Castro (TX-20), and Reps. Mario D\u00edaz-Balart (FL-26), Carlos Gim\u00e9nez (FL-28), Joe Wilson (SC-02), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Ami Bera (CA-06), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Norma Torres (CA-35), Dina Titus (NV-03), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), and Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) in issuing the following statement on the ongoing siege of the Argentine Embassy in Venezuela by the Maduro regime:\n\n\u201cThe Maduro regime\u2019s ongoing siege of the Argentine Embassy in Venezuela is a blatant violation of the Vienna Conventions. This political persecution of the six members of Mar\u00eda Corina Machado\u2019s team who have been at the Embassy for over eight months must end. The Maduro regime has cut access to water and electricity at the Embassy for weeks, an inhumane tactic which deserves clear repudiation from the international community. We unequivocally condemn these actions and call for the safe passage of these individuals to Argentina or another destination of their choosing. Maduro and his accomplices must be held accountable for their crimes.\u201d\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nSix members of Venezuelan opposition leader Mar\u00eda Corina Machado\u2019s team have been taking refuge at the Argentine Embassy in Caracas since March. For the last month, the Maduro regime\u2019s security forces have laid siege to the Embassy, including by cutting off water and electricity and stationing snipers surrounding the Embassy\u2019s premises. Just this past week, an Argentine military policeman tasked with defending the Embassy was kidnapped by the regime\u2019s security forces.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://khanna.house.gov/media/press-releases/khanna-merkley-cornyn-tuberville-and-carter-joined-paris-hilton-celebrating", "KHANNA, MERKLEY, CORNYN, TUBERVILLE, AND CARTER JOINED BY PARIS HILTON IN CELEBRATING THE STOP INSTITUTIONAL CHILD ABUSE ACT PASSING THE HOUSE, HEADS TO PRESIDENT\u2019S DESK", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Ro Khanna", "K000389", "khanna.house.gov", "khanna", "https://khanna.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Representatives Ro Khanna (CA-17), Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter (GA-01), along with Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), were joined by Paris Hilton in celebrating the passage of the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act in the House. The legislation, which passed the Senate last week by unanimous consent, will head to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\nParis Hilton, a survivor of institutional child abuse in the so-called \u201ctroubled teen\u201d industry who has led reform efforts for years, joined the lawmakers for a press conference this week on Capitol Hill to discuss how the legislation will ensure accountability and protect over 100,000 youth in America. This bipartisan, bicameral bill will provide greater oversight and data transparency for institutional youth treatment programs and will help identify and prevent institutional child abuse.\n\n\u201cChildren across the country are at risk of abuse and neglect due to a lack of transparency in institutional youth treatment programs. The industry has gone unchecked for too long. Paris Hilton and other survivors of abuse in this broken system have bravely shared their stories and inspired change. I\u2019m proud to lead this legislation with my colleagues to protect the safety and well-being of kids,\u201d said Rep. Ro Khanna.\n\n\u201cOne child experiencing abuse is too many. Hundreds of thousands of children being funneled into seemingly safe institutional care facilities only to be dehumanized and abused is a crisis, one that I am thrilled Congress took action to address today. When this bill is signed into law, parents and children alike will have an accurate understanding of the practices, goals, and ethics of residential youth treatment centers before it\u2019s too late. This bill adds transparency and oversight to an industry with too many bad actors in it, and I want to thank Paris Hilton for her bravery that made this bill passage possible,\u201d said Rep. Earl L. \u201cBuddy\u201d Carter.\n\n\u201cSince releasing my documentary four years ago and sharing my story about the abuse I endured in youth residential treatment facilities, the response has been overwhelming. I made a vow to do everything in my power to advocate for survivors and shine a light on the harsh reality that hundreds of thousands of children still face. After years of fighting for this bill and countless trips to the Capitol, I am so proud that the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act has officially passed Congress. I never imagined my voice could create such change, and I am committed to using my platform to protect children, amplify the voices of survivors, and ensure no child is ever harmed in the name of \u201ctreatment\u201d again. I look forward to this bill being signed by President Biden and hope to celebrate this achievement at a bill signing,\u201d said Paris Hilton.\n\n\u201cOften, a child seeking help is harmed instead\u2014this must end. This strongly bipartisan effort to bring oversight to the troubled teen industry has been years in the making, and now, our bill to shine a light on the horrifying cases at these centers is on the way to becoming law,\u201d said Senator Jeff Merkley, the lead sponsor of the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act in the Senate.\n\n\u201cSome children in residential youth programs have faced unimaginable abuse and neglect, and I am proud to have introduced this legislation to help ensure institutional child abuse comes to an end. Now that both the Senate and the House have passed this critical legislation, I look forward to the President signing it into law to help protect vulnerable youth from these horrific conditions,\u201d said Senator John Cornyn.\n\n\u201cI dedicated my life to mentoring young people because they are the most precious commodity that we have. If we get everything else right, but neglect our young people, our country has no future. There\u2019s an old saying that sunlight is the best disinfectant. We need some more sunlight on these facilities so we can put a stop to the waste, and the fraud, and abuse in the system. I\u2019m proud to support the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act and stand with our kids,\u201d said Senator Tommy Tuberville.\n\nFor the full text of the legislation, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://khanna.house.gov/media/press-releases/warren-khanna-lawmakers-introduce-bill-send-letter-urging-study-anti-sex", "WARREN, KHANNA, LAWMAKERS INTRODUCE BILL, SEND LETTER URGING STUDY OF ANTI-SEX TRAFFICKING LEGISLATION IMPACTS ON SEX WORKER HEALTH, SAFETY", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Ro Khanna", "K000389", "khanna.house.gov", "khanna", "https://khanna.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Bill to study impacts of SESTA/FOSTA on sex workers\u2019 health, safety and trafficking investigations; letter pushes agencies to undertake national study\n\nText of Bill (PDF) | Text of Letter (PDF) | One Pager (PDF)\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2014 Representatives Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), and U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), led lawmakers in reintroducing the SAFE SEX Workers Study Act, legislation directing the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct the first federal study on the impact of a 2018 anti-sex trafficking bill known as SESTA/FOSTA on sex workers and trafficking investigations. The bill was reintroduced on the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers.\n\nSenators Bernie Sanders (D-Vt.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) cosponsored the bill in the Senate. Representatives Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Jim McGovern (D-Mass.), Mark Pocan (D-Wis.), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.) cosponsored the bill in the House.\n\nThe bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to undertake the first-ever robust national study of the impacts of SESTA/FOSTA. The bill\u2019s landmark study would require consultation, as appropriate, with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and report to Congress on the study within one year of the date of enactment. The bill also adds a new requirement that the Attorney General submit a report on SESTA/FOSTA\u2019s impact on human trafficking investigations and prosecutions.\n\nSenators Warren and Wyden, alongside Representatives Khanna, Lee, Holmes Norton, and Coleman, also sent a letter to HHS and the DOJ, pushing the agencies to undertake this study.\n\n\u201cWhile the SAFE SEX Workers Study Act would require your departments to complete these studies, we encourage HHS and DOJ to pursue this research voluntarily as part of your respective missions to protect the health and safety of all Americans, including sex workers, and to investigate human trafficking,\u201d wrote the lawmakers.\n\nThe bill reintroduction follows a 2021 report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) finding that, as of March 2021, SESTA/FOSTA has never been used by federal prosecutors to seek criminal restitution for victims of sex trafficking. In fact, while Congress passed SESTA/FOSTA to crack down on sex trafficking by making websites legally liable for content that helps \u201cfacilitate prostitution,\u201d the GAO study confirmed that the law has only made it more difficult for officials to investigate and prosecute sex trafficking cases.\n\nAnecdotal reporting suggests SESTA/FOSTA and the loss of certain web services have also had profound negative impacts on sex workers. Before SESTA/FOSTA, many sex workers used online platforms to screen clients. Negotiations could happen virtually, instead of on the street. Sex workers were able to share vetting tools, like blacklists of dangerous clients. After SESTA/FOSTA was enacted, these sites and the tools that came with them shuttered overnight.\n\nThe SAFE SEX Workers Study Act would study the impact of SESTA/FOSTA on the health and safety of sex workers, including disparities in these effects on LGBTQ+ individuals, people living in rural areas, racial and ethnic minorities, Tribal communities, people experiencing exploitation and trafficking, and undocumented and documented immigrant communities.\n\n\u201cIf SESTA-FOSTA has negatively impacted sex workers\u2019 health and safety, it\u2019s our responsibility as lawmakers to take those unintended consequences seriously,\u201d said Senator Warren. \u201cOur bill will shed much-needed light on those impacts so we can better understand how to address them.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is tragic that SESTA/FOSTA has done nothing to help victims of human trafficking, while by all accounts causing sex workers to suffer from increased violence and threats. As I feared, SESTA/FOSTA demonstrated that shutting down online speech inevitably hurts marginalized groups hardest. I applaud Senator Warren and Rep. Khanna for authoring this legislation to comprehensively study SESTA/FOSTA\u2019s impacts on sex workers,\u201d said Senator Wyden.\n\n\"As the Government Accountability Office has highlighted, we know that SESTA/FOSTA has not been successfully used to prevent sex trafficking. Instead, since its enactment, workers are facing increased physical and sexual violence after being pushed off online platforms. Congress needs to listen to the stories of sex workers who are being put in harm\u2019s way. I'm proud to partner with Congresswoman Lee and Senators Warren and Wyden on this legislation,\u201d said Rep. Ro Khanna.\n\n\u201cFor years, SESTA/FOSTA has demonized sex workers and subjected them to an increased risk of violence and abuse. Instead of preventing trafficking, it made it harder for sex workers to access critical health and safety resources. I\u2019m proud to reintroduce this legislation with Rep. Khanna and Senators Warren and Wyden to study the unintended consequences of SESTA/FOSTA and enable Congress to make informed policy decisions to protect the health and safety of sex workers,\u201d said Rep. Barbara Lee.\n\nThe bill was drafted in consultation with sex workers, advocates for LGBTQI+ and sex worker rights, HIV/AIDS prevention and advocacy groups, and organizations that provide health, safety and legal services for sex workers and sex-trafficking victims. The bill has received the endorsement of more than 30 diverse national and regional organizations across the country: Reframe Health and Justice, Center for Democracy and Technology, Fight for the Future, Defending Rights & Dissent, Assembly Four, Black and Pink, Human Rights Campaign, Lambda Legal, Whitman-Walker Institute, The Center for HIV Law and Policy, The Moore-O'Neal Law Group, LLC, Counter Narrative Project, SWOP Behind Bars, Support Ho(s)e, Free Speech Coalition (FSC), Sex Workers Outreach Project \u2013 Sacramento, Sex Workers Project of the Urban Justice Center, Decriminalize Sex Work, Decrim Sex Work California, Advocating Opportunity, Amara Legal Services, Freedom Network USA, New Frameworks, Center for Constitutional Rights, Womankind, Oasis Legal Services, Win Without War, 18 Million Rising, Public Citizen, Positive Women's Network-USA, DecrimIL, AIDS Foundation Chicago, and Woodhull Freedom Foundation.\n\n\"Congress must consider unintentional impacts while working to prevent online trafficking. Forcing sex workers into less safe working conditions and preventing community harm reduction increases vulnerabilities to trafficking, it does not deter trafficking. It is essential that Congress passes the SAFE SEX Workers Study Act so it can make more informed legislative decisions and fund solutions that work for everyone,\u201d said Jean Bruggeman, Executive Director of Freedom Network USA.\n\n\u201cSex workers warned legislators of the potential harms of SESTA/FOSTA prior to its passage in 2018 and have been at the forefront of researching and documenting the consequences of this legislation over the past six years. Woodhull Freedom Foundation has supported this research including through a survey of 440 sex workers who reported SESTA/FOSTA has increased their exposure to violence, in part by limiting their access to online spaces impacting their ability to earn income, screen clients, and communicate with their peers. On this internationally recognized day to end violence against sex workers, we urge lawmakers to take this opportunity to pass the SAFE SEX Workers Study Act. This legislation is critically needed to supplement current research and provide a comprehensive understanding of SESTA/FOSTA\u2019s impacts to better ensure future legislation meant to address human trafficking does not inadvertently put sex workers and trafficking survivors at-risk,\u201d Mariah Grant, Sex Worker Rights Expert and Woodhull Freedom Foundation Advocacy Consultant.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mike-levins-statement-on-vote-against-the-2025-short-term-government-funding-bill", "Rep. Mike Levin\u2019s Statement on Vote Against the 2025 Short-Term Government Funding Bill", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Mike Levin", "L000593", "levin.house.gov", "levin", "https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.- Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) released the following statement regarding his vote against the Republicans\u2019 2025 short-term government funding bill.\n\n\u201cA deal is a deal. We had a bipartisan agreement and House Republicans reneged on that because of temper tantrums on social media by Billionaire-in-Chief Elon Musk.\n\n\u201cTonight\u2019s Republican bill was drafted last minute and removed several key provisions to protect working families and healthcare for kids. It raises the debt ceiling to allow Trump to pass a massive tax cut in 2025 for billionaires like Musk without having to worry about the impact on the national debt. Trump\u2019s Congressional allies claim to care about bringing down the national debt, but their actions prove otherwise.\u201d\n\n##", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://lofgren.house.gov/media/press-releases/lofgren-requested-water-resources-development-provisions-totaling-63m-ca-18-0", "Lofgren-Requested Water Resources Development Provisions Totaling $63M for CA-18 Set to Become Law", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Zoe Lofgren", "L000397", "lofgren.house.gov", "lofgren", "https://lofgren.house.gov/media/press-releases", "page_html", "December 19, 2024\n\nIncluded are Seven Local Provisions to Improve & Expand Water Infrastructure, Examine & Prevent Flood Risk, & Study Water Ecosystems & Storage Capacity\n\nWASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Following House passage last week, on the evening of December 18, 2024, the Senate passed S.4367, the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, a biannual authorization of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) Civil Works Program, which included seven provisions requested by U.S. Representative Zoe Lofgren (CA-18). President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill into law this month.\n\n\u201cProper water infrastructure \u2013 that prevents contamination, allows for clean drinking water, and reduces flood risk \u2013 is a basic need in communities. As our country faces the effects of extreme heat, prolonged droughts, and more severe storms, it is vital to make investments that improve resiliency and expand our water supply,\u201d said Lofgren. \u201cThe provisions included for our often-overlooked Central Coast communities will either improve water resources outright or set the stage for future upgrades. I will continue to advance measures that are essential for California\u2019s 18th Congressional District.\u201d\n\nCA-18 WRDA Projects \u2013 Topline\n\nLocal Provisions with Specified Funding Included\n\nNote: WRDA authorizes specific projects, but Congress still must appropriate funding for the projects separately.\n\nWatsonville Wastewater Treatment and Downtown Pipes Projects \u2013 $28 million\n\nSalinas Industrial Wastewater Treatment Project \u2013 $20 million\n\nSan Juan Bautista Water Supply Project \u2013 $10 million\n\nHollister Downtown Water Line Replacement Project \u2013 $5 million\n\nLocal Studies and Language Changes Included\n\nSan Benito\u2019s Soap Lake Storage Improvements Feasibility Study\n\nSalinas River Flood Risk Management Study\n\nSan Francisco Bay Area Comprehensive Sea Level Rise Study\n\nCA-18 WRDA Provisions \u2013 Detailed\n\nProvisions Authorizing Specific Local Projects\n\nNote: WRDA authorizes specific projects, but Congress still must appropriate funding for the projects separately.\n\nWatsonville Wastewater Treatment Plant and Downtown Pipes Projects \u2013 $28 million\n\nThe City of Watsonville will use federal funding to install new equipment at the wastewater treatment facility for solids treatment and beneficial biogas reuse. The equipment will enhance treatment for the City and its three partner sanitation districts (Pajaro, Salsipuedes, and Freedom) and allow the facility to continue being a net exporter of electricity. Additionally, the City of Watsonville's water and wastewater pipe infrastructure in the downtown area is 75+ years old and has been a significant impediment preventing the development of new affordable housing. The City will use federal funding to help expand and improve the pipe infrastructure to increase the system's capacity.\n\nSalinas Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements \u2013 $20 million\n\nThe City of Salinas will use the federal funding to make improvements to the Salinas Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facility and Conveyance System. This includes the installation of a new lift station, new electrical systems and backup power, new pond distribution systems to facilitate reuse, and making improvements to the aeration lagoon. The system provides cost-effective, efficient wastewater treatment for the indispensable agricultural industry in and around Salinas.\n\nSan Juan Bautista Water Supply Project \u2013 $10 million\n\nThe City of San Juan Bautista has struggled to provide safe drinking water because there is excessive groundwater salt content. The City will use the federal funding on a cost-effective solution that connects its water system to the nearby San Benito County Water District. The import of water will dilute the City\u2019s groundwater to have acceptable salt content levels.\n\nHollister Downtown Water Line Replacement Project \u2013 $5 million\n\nThe downtown area of the City of Hollister is currently served by old, brittle cast iron water pipes. These pipes have experienced frequent water main breaks, in part due to seismic activity from the nearby Calaveras fault. Additionally, the current water supply system does not meet fire code flow regulations. The federal funding will allow the City to replace the cast iron lines with modern PVC pipes to substantially improve the City's water distribution system.\n\nLocal Studies and Language Changes Included\n\nSan Benito\u2019s Soap Lake Storage Improvements Feasibility Study \u2013 Language Included\n\nSan Felipe (Soap) Lake in San Benito County is a seasonally-intermittent lake in the upper Pajaro River watershed. The lake, which fills during times of high rain, serves to regulate flows released into the Pajaro River. The Pajaro River has repeatedly flooded, most recently during the March 2023 atmospheric river storms. The study will examine the feasibility of increasing the detention and/or retention volume within Soap Lake for flood risk reduction downstream of the lake.\n\nSalinas River Flood Risk Management Study \u2013 Language Included\n\nThe Salinas River in Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties, CA experienced significant flooding in the winter of 2023, causing hundreds of millions of dollars in damages and crop losses. While locally-led efforts to update the management of the river are ongoing, an Army Corps flood risk management and ecosystem restoration study for the river could provide options for or confirmations about what can be done to prevent future damages and crop losses.\n\nSan Francisco Bay Area Comprehensive Sea Level Rise Study \u2013 Language Included\n\nThe study will investigate what can be done to mitigate the impacts of sea level rise in the San Francisco Bay Area on nearby communities and infrastructure.\n\nRecent, Related Lofgren Actions\n\nIn October 2024, Lofgren announced that Valley Water has been selected to receive approximately $50,000,000 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support flood protection efforts along Coyote Creek.\n\nIn October 2024, Lofgren participated in the groundbreaking event for the Pajaro Reach 6 levee upgrade project.\n\nIn September 2024, Lofgren announced and celebrated the $80 million federal investment to complete the final phase of the Upper Llagas Creek Flood Protection project.\n\nIn September 2024, Lofgren wrote to the Corps to support local agencies' request for technical assistance as they continue local efforts to address Salinas River flood risk.\n\nIn May 2024, Lofgren announced $6,700,000 for San Benito County to increase the water supply in the region and better store water, thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Democrats shepherded in the last Congress.\n\nIn May 2024, Lofgren announced $16,795,000 to improve wastewater infrastructure in San Juan Bautista from U.S. Department of Agriculture funding included in the FY22 and FY23 appropriations packages that Lofgren voted for.\n\nIn April 2024, Lofgren requested funding for two water infrastructure projects in her Community Project Funding requests for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025: The San Juan Bautista Drinking Water Supply Regionalization and Pajaro County Sanitation District Sewer System Improvement projects.\n\nIn April 2024, Lofgren presented checks appropriated by Congress for two community projects totaling $1,919,504 that will improve wastewater treatment in Salinas and Watsonville through FY 2024 Community Project Funding.\n\nIn March 2024, Lofgren secured $959,752 for the San Lucas Clean Drinking Water Project through FY24 Community Project Funding.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/fact-sheet-impacts-republican-shutdown-families-california-and-san-francisco", "FACT SHEET: The Impacts of a Republican Shutdown on Families in California and San Francisco", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nancy Pelosi", "P000197", "pelosi.house.gov", "pelosi", "https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "December 19, 2024\n\nFrom the Speaker Emerita's Press Office:\n\nHouse Republicans are threatening to shut down the government after Elon Musk, their biggest donor, threw a temper tantrum online and Donald Trump ordered them to kill a bipartisan funding bill.\n\nA Republican government shutdown would hurt working families, damage our economy, interrupt vital services, endanger our national security, and force millions of our troops and government employees to work without pay.\n\nBelow is a fact sheet prepared by the Office of Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-11) and the Democratic Staff of the House Committee on the Budget:\n\nIn San Francisco, If House Republicans Shut Down The Government:\n\nApproximately 6,505 people, including 432 infants and 1,417 children, in CA-11 would lose access to Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits in a prolonged shutdown.\n\n7,665 federal workers in CA-11 would be furloughed or forced to work without pay during a total government shutdown, in addition to the many employees of businesses with government contracts who could be laid off, furloughed, or see their hours cut.\n\nIn California, If House Republicans Shut Down The Government:\n\n213,176 active duty and reserve personnel serving our nation's armed forces in California would be forced to go without the pay they earn during a shutdown.\n\nThe Small Business Administration would stop processing small business loans, halting a program that provides $4,433,591,900 in funding to small businesses in California every year.\n\n178,407 people flying through California airports every day would face potential delays and safety concerns due to staffing impacts on TSA agents and air traffic controllers.\n\n972,418 people in California would lose access to Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits in a prolonged shutdown.\n\n187,679 federal workers in California would be furloughed or forced to work without pay during a total government shutdown, in addition to the many employees of businesses with government contracts who could be laid off, furloughed, or see their hours cut.\n\nWorkers at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would be sidelined, risking interruptions and delays to the 2,172 food safety, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and other inspections conducted in California last year.\n\nThe Department of Agriculture would be forced to stop processing housing loans, which provide $410,540,063 in funding to help 1,490 families in rural California communities buy homes every year.\n\nThe Department of Agriculture would be forced to stop processing farm loans which provide $77,037,000 in funding for farmers in California every year.\n\n5,215,990 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries in California would lose access to benefits in a prolonged shutdown.\n\n38,237,347 people who visit national parks in California every year would be turned away or unable to fully access parks, monuments, and museums.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-trump-musk-shutdown-threat", "Pelosi Statement on Trump-Musk Shutdown Threat", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nancy Pelosi", "P000197", "pelosi.house.gov", "pelosi", "https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "San Francisco \u2013 Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi released the following statement:\n\n\u201cOn the eve of a deadline to fulfill our responsibility to meet the needs of the American people by funding the government, unelected billionaire Elon Musk has ordered his puppet President-elect and House Republicans to break the bipartisan agreement reached by House and Senate Democrats and Republicans to keep government open.\n\n\u201cIn 2018, then-President Trump said that \u2018our country needs a good shutdown.' He was wrong then and he is wrong now. There is no such thing as a good shutdown of government. A Trump-Musk Shutdown will hurt America\u2019s working families, seniors, veterans and disaster survivors. It forces servicemembers, law enforcement officers and first responders to work without pay. And at the peak of the holiday travel season, it degrades airport security and air traffic control.\n\n\u201cBy following the marching orders of Elon Musk and Donald Trump, House Republicans are abdicating their responsibility to the American people and siding with billionaires and special interests. House Republicans must do the right thing for the American people and uphold the bipartisan agreement that they negotiated to prevent a reckless shutdown. To do so otherwise would be harmful \u2013 and therefore stupid.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sherman-expect-government-shutdown-1201-am-saturday", "Congressman Sherman: \"Expect Government Shutdown 12:01 AM Saturday\"", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Brad Sherman", "S000344", "sherman.house.gov", "sherman", "https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Unless Congress passes a Continuing Resolution, all \u201cnon-essential\u201d federal action halts on Saturday at 12:01 AM.\n\nOn Tuesday, Democrats and Republicans had agreed to a Continuing Resolution and all the related details. We were ready to pass the bill with big bipartisan majorities. The bill would not solve all the nation\u2019s problems \u2013 but at least it would keep the government open through March 14, 2025.\n\nInstead, Elon Musk announced he hated the bipartisan compromise bill and would fund primary opponents to any Republican who voted for it. Then Donald Trump demanded that Republicans defeat the compromise bill. Since Republicans control the House of Representatives, they will not even allow a vote on the compromise bill. So, a Saturday morning shutdown is likely.\n\nThe Republicans would not even let us vote on the bipartisan deal. Instead, they brought up a 120-page bill that no Democratic Member had seen until one hour before the vote. While I\u2019ve only had minutes to review this hundred-billion-dollar bill, I can already see that compared to the bipartisan bill, the Republican bill is:\n\nWorse for children with cancer\n\nWorse for pregnant women\n\nBetter for drug companies\n\nBetter for Americans who invest American capital in Chinese companies\n\nI will be voting \u201cNO\u201d and the bill is certain to be defeated in the House \u2013 even some Republicans will vote no.\n\nMy staff will be working during the shutdown though they may not be paid on time, and I will not accept pay while my staff isn\u2019t being paid. They are essential and are available to you to help navigate any problem that arises.\n\n(818) 501-9200\n\n5000 Van Nuys BLVD #420\n\nSherman Oaks, CA 91403\n\nThe memo below outlines the effects, most of which won\u2019t be apparent until Monday.\n\nFederal Government Shutdown: Frequently Asked Questions\n\nWill I continue to receive my Social Security and SSI checks?\n\nRecipients will continue to receive their Social Security and SSI checks. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will provide limited services like issuing Social Security cards and holding appointments for benefit applications. However, SSA will stop services like benefit verifications and processing overpayments. Customer service wait times will dramatically increase.\n\nWill Medicare and Medicaid benefits be affected?\n\nCurrent Medicare, Medicaid, and disability insurance beneficiaries will continue to receive their benefits assuming a shutdown lasts less than three months.\n\nWhat happens to veterans' services?\n\nAll Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities and clinics will remain operational. The VA will continue to process veterans\u2019 benefits. However, veterans will be affected by the shutdown of other services that they count on, including education and job training, support for veteran-owned businesses, and even assistance for homeless veterans.\n\nWhich federal employees keep working during a government shutdown?\n\nWhen the government shuts down, federal agencies are required to classify their employees whose salaries have lapsed as either \"excepted\" or \"not excepted.\" The employees classified as \"excepted\" work without pay during the shutdown. The employees classified as \"not excepted\" are put on unpaid furlough.\n\nDo furloughed federal employees get backpay?\n\nThe Government Employee Fair Treatment Act, signed into law in 2019, guarantees that furloughed government employees receive backpay once a shutdown ends. However, federal contractors impacted are not guaranteed backpay.\n\nWhat is the impact on U.S. military personnel and federal law enforcement?\n\nAll active-duty and Guard and Reservists on active-duty orders are excepted and therefore are required to work without pay. On-base non-acute health care will cease, although off-base care provided through Tricare will not be affected. On-base child care will be open on a case-by-case basis. Federal law enforcement will also be required to work without pay for the duration of a shutdown.\n\nWill military and federal retiree benefits be suspended?\n\nMilitary and federal retirees will continue to receive their retirement benefits. Processing new applications or other requested changes will be delayed.\n\nWill air travel be affected?\n\nAir traffic controllers, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers, and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents will remain on the job without pay. If some do not report to work, as has happened in prior shutdowns, there will be significant delays and longer wait times across the country.\n\nWhat does this mean for disaster relief efforts?\n\nFederal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) staff will still respond to emergencies, but all long-term projects will be delayed due to a lack of funding in the Disaster Relief Fund.\n\nHow will this affect environmental protection and cleanup?\n\nThe Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will stop inspecting most hazardous waste sites, as well as drinking water and chemical facilities.\n\nEfforts to address dangerous contaminants like PFAS \u2014 which are linked to severe health effects, including cancer \u2014 will be delayed, and cleanup activities at Superfund sites will slow or cease.\n\nWhat is the impact on food assistance?\n\nThe Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) will quickly run out of funding and be unable to provide food for children and parents in need. In the case of a prolonged shutdown, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits may also be affected.\n\nWhat is the impact on food safety activities?\n\nFood and Drug Administration (FDA) food safety activities \u2014 such as routine inspections of facilities \u2014 will be delayed across the country.\n\nWhat is the impact on housing?\n\nThe Federal Housing Administration (FHA) will stop insuring some new mortgages and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will stop processing some new loans. The Department of Agriculture (USDA) will stop new loan and loan guarantee activity.\n\nThe VA will continue to guarantee home loans. Funding for federal housing assistance programs, such as Housing Choice Vouchers, may be jeopardized in a prolonged shutdown.\n\nHow will this affect small businesses?\n\nThe Small Business Administration (SBA) will stop processing new business loans, such as through the 7(a) and 504 programs. However, SBA\u2019s Disaster Loan Program will continue regular operations.\n\nWill my mail still arrive?\n\nYes. The U.S. Postal Service is not affected by a shutdown.\n\nWhat does this mean for medical research?\n\nThe National Institutes of Health (NIH) will be forced to delay new clinical trials. New patients who are waiting for a chance at new treatment through a clinical trial will be turned away.\n\nWill I still be able to visit National Parks and monuments?\n\nAcross the country, services that require National Park Service staff \u2014 including trash removal and operating campgrounds and concessions \u2014 may be stopped. Closures will be determined on a location-by-location basis; open-air parks and monuments in Washington, D.C. will likely remain accessible. Smithsonian museums may also be impacted by a lengthy shutdown.\n\nHow does this affect passports and help for Americans overseas?\n\nConsular services, passport services, and visa services are expected to continue in the immediate aftermath of a government shutdown. In a prolonged shutdown, passport and visa issuance could be slowed. Access to passport agencies located in some government buildings may be limited.\n\nWhat is the impact on state and local services?\n\nThe federal government shutdown will not immediately affect any state or local services. However, with federal funding cut off, some state or local governments may have to change their operations. Check with state and local agencies for specific questions.\n\nWhat is the impact on the U.S. economy?\n\nShutdowns are detrimental to both the public, who face service and program disruptions, and federal employees, who are either furloughed or required to work without pay. Moreover, they pose a significant strain on government resources.\n\nThe Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and federal agencies need to develop and implement shutdown plans, a process that requires substantial staff time and resources, potentially detracting from public services. Shutdowns also cause revenue losses, such as those from visitor fees or gift store sales when national parks close. Additionally, shutdowns negatively impact the economy.\n\nThe Congressional Budget Office estimated that the 2018-2019 shutdown cost the U.S. economy $11 billion, mainly due to federal workers reducing their spending in response to lost pay. Notably, this decrease in spending may not rebound even after workers receive their back pay.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://swalwell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/swalwell-introduced-bill-hold-trump-appointees-accountable", "SWALWELL INTRODUCED BILL TO HOLD TRUMP APPOINTEES ACCOUNTABLE", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Eric Swalwell", "S001193", "swalwell.house.gov", "swalwell", "https://swalwell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA) introduced the Trust and Modernization in Tax Governance Act or \u201cTMTG\u201d Act to promote accountability and fairness in government. The TMTG Act amends the tax code to limit the amount of untaxed profit that executive branch officials, including the President and Vice President, can defer when selling assets to comply with conflict-of-interest laws. Specifically, the bill caps the deferral at $100 million and requires any deferred gain to be recognized and taxed once they leave office.\n\n\u201cAmericans deserve leaders who follow the same rules they do, not a government that allows the wealthiest officials to skirt their obligations. This bill ensures that public servants prioritize public good over personal profit,\u201d said Congressman Eric Swalwell. \u201cThe incoming administration raises concerns with its notable trend of appointing multimillionaires and billionaires to key cabinet positions. Trump\u2019s \u201cbro-ligarchy\u201d has immense wealth and are already benefiting from privileges that most Americans can only dream of. The TMTG Act will act as a safeguard to stop them from exploiting loopholes to avoid paying their fair share of taxes. Working for the U.S. government should be about public service not a tax shelter for billionaires.\u201d\n\nThe Trust and Modernization in Tax Governance Act (TMTG Act) Would:\n\nLimits Tax Deferrals for Executive Branch Officials: Caps the amount of untaxed profit (\"deferred gain\") that executive branch officials, including the President and Vice President, can claim at $100 million when selling assets to comply with conflict-of-interest requirements.\n\nEnsures Tax Liability Post-Service: Requires any deferred gains that remain untaxed during an official's tenure to be recognized and taxed once the individual leaves government service.\n\nPromotes Fairness in Tax Policy: Closes a loophole in the tax code that allows the wealthiest government officials to defer large profits, ensuring they adhere to the same rules as ordinary taxpayers.\n\nApplies Specifically to Executive Branch: Targets high-ranking officials in the executive branch to address potential conflicts of interest and ensure accountability in asset divestment.\n\nStrengthens Government Transparency: Reinforces trust in public institutions by preventing officials from using their positions for financial gain at the expense of taxpayers.\n\nBalances Public Service and Financial Responsibility: Encourages ethical behavior by ensuring public servants do not exploit tax laws to avoid paying their fair share.\n\nCovers All Taxable Years: Limits apply to the cumulative deferral across all years, preventing long-term exploitation of the system.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-torres-votes-no-on-republican-continuing-resolution-that-threatens-health-care-and-fiscal-responsibility", "Congresswoman Torres Votes No on Republican Continuing Resolution that Threatens Health Care and Fiscal Responsibility", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Norma J. Torres", "T000474", "torres.house.gov", "torres", "https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) voted against the Republican stop-gap federal funding bill \u2013 the Continuing Resolution (CR) \u2013 citing deep concerns over reckless provisions that undermine critical health care services and grant unchecked spending authority to President-elect Donald Trump for the next two years.\n\n\u201cThis Republican funding bill betrays the American people and represents hypocrisy of the highest degree \u2013 giving the incoming President unchecked spending power and the ability to expand his tax scam which only benefits the ultra rich at the expense of working class families,\u201d said Rep. Torres. \u201cIt guts childhood cancer research by $190 million, abandons breast and cervical cancer detection funding, and down syndrome research. Republicans even cut over $1 billion from food stamps right before Christmas and the holiday season. The American people deserve better.\u201d\n\nImpact on Health Care and Families:\n\nAbandons breast and cervical cancer preventative services.\n\nCuts over $1 billion to the federal food stamps program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).\n\nCuts substance abuse treatment funding, and key foster youth support.\n\nGuts childhood cancer research by $190 million.\n\nAttack on Jobs and Workforce Development:\n\nEliminates funding for youth workforce investment programs designed to keep students in school and help youth facing homelessness.\n\nAllows the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to end, dismantling federal funding for youth pathways and work-based learning opportunities.\n\nAbandons efforts to support domestic manufacturing and supply chain resilience through job creating programs.\n\nUnchecked Spending Powers:\n\nThe proposed CR also contains provisions that grant President-elect Trump and his party unchecked discretionary spending authorities, raising the debt limit for two years until right past the midterm elections.\n\n\u201cThis bill is not a solution; it\u2019s a political stunt,\u201d added Rep. Torres. \u201cIt fails to meet the needs of families in CA-35 and across the country, and it opens the door to reckless governance that puts our future at risk. We need real bipartisan solutions that prioritize the people we serve, not partisan gamesmanship.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Torres remains committed to advocating for responsible governance, protecting health care services, and ensuring fiscal responsibility for the constituents of CA-35.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://barragan.house.gov/2024/12/18/rep-barragan-statement-on-department-of-energy-study-on-the-impacts-of-lng-exports/", "Rep. Barrag\u00e1n Statement on Department of Energy Study on the Impacts of LNG Exports", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nanette Diaz Barrag\u00e1n", "B001300", "barragan.house.gov", "barragan", "https://barragan.house.gov/news", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\n18 December 2024\n\nContact: Kevin G. McGuire, 202-538-2386 (mobile)\n\nKevin.McGuire@mail.house.gov\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Congresswoman Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44) released the following statement after yesterday\u2019s Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) exports study released by the Department of Energy, that found the approval of additional LNG exports will raise domestic gas prices, worsen the climate crisis, and harm environmental justice communities.\n\n\u201cThe Department of Energy\u2019s study confirms what frontline communities have long known: increasing LNG exports worsens pollution, drives up domestic energy costs, and accelerates the climate crisis,\u201d said Rep. Barrag\u00e1n. \u201cThese impacts disproportionately harm environmental justice communities, who already suffer from cumulative pollution and health inequities. I urge the Administration to deny the remaining LNG export applications to protect vulnerable communities from further harm.\u201d\n\n###\n\nCongressmember Nanette Barrag\u00e1n represents California\u2019s 44th District. She sits on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. She also serves as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://carbajal.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3096", "Rep. Carbajal Blasts Republican Budget Obstruction Holding Up More than $14 Million in Central Coast Projects", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Salud O. Carbajal", "C001112", "carbajal.house.gov", "carbajal", "https://carbajal.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Today, Congressman Salud Carbajal (CA-24) is calling out House Republicans for dragging their feet on finalizing government funding for the current fiscal year, leaving more than $14,000,000 in funding specifically designated for Central Coast projects in limbo. The failure to reach a bipartisan deal has forced Congress to resort to a stopgap government funding resolution this week.\n\n\u201cRepublican leadership in Congress has spent months prioritizing culture war poison pills over governing, refusing to work across the aisle to reach a funding deal for this year. These needless delays have real impacts on the Central Coast,\u201d said Rep. Carbajal. \u201cThe funding in limbo will help build new fire stations, renovate public spaces, and improve education and public safety in our region. I urge my colleagues to drop the extremism that has caused these delays and reengage with House Democrats so we can finalize the funding levels for a fiscal year that we\u2019re already one-fourth through.\u201d\n\nThe funding bills written in the House contain more than$14 million secured by Rep. Carbajal for 15 different projects across the Central Coast, including:\n\n\u00b7 $2,450,000 for new fire stations in Santa Maria and Santa Margarita\n\n\u00b7 $2,000,000 for a new resource center in Santa Barbara Unified School District\n\n\u00b7 $1,000,000 for renovations at Guadalupe\u2019s Senior Center\n\n\u00b7 $1,884,000 for public safety upgrades for Ventura and San Luis Obispo counties\n\n\u00b7 $850,000 for a new community center in Carpinteria\n\nThe stopgap proposed this week would push the deadline for government funding for the fiscal year that began on October 1st to the spring of 2025, putting a final funding deal for the year on track to be finished at least six months late.\n\nCongressman Carbajal\u2019s work on previous federal budget deals has delivered massive investments in Central Coast community projects, totaling more than $50 million in direct funding over the past three years.\n\nHighlights of the 37 projects funded through Congressman Carbajal\u2019s efforts include:\n\n\u00b7 $2,500,000 for the Escalante Meadows affordable housing community in Guadalupe\n\n\u00b7 $2 million for the renovations to the Anderson Hotel in San Luis Obispo\n\n\u00b7 $1,600,000 for expanded services for victims of crimes at the Ventura County Family Justice Center (VCFJC)\n\n\u00b7 $1,500,000 to expand capacity at the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County\n\n\u00b7 $750,000 for upgrades to E.P. Foster Library in Ventura\n\n\u00b7 $543,000 for public safety upgrades for the City of Grover Beach\n\nMore information on the Community Project Funding process and the funding requests championed by Rep. Carbajal can be foundhere.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://costa.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-jim-costa-cuts-red-tape-fast-track-pine-flat-dam", "Rep. Jim Costa cuts Red Tape to Fast-Track Pine Flat Dam", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jim Costa", "C001059", "costa.house.gov", "costa", "https://costa.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) secured a major victory through the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, paving the way towards raising Pine Flat Dam. This project is crucial for increasing water storage in the San Joaquin Valley, ensuring farmers have a more reliable water supply for irrigation and crop production.\n\nThe U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly voted to pass this legislation, and now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cWater is the lifeblood of our farms, and this is a huge step forward in securing the resources our farmers need,\u201dsaid Representative Costa.\u201cExpediting the feasibility study to raise Pine Flat Dam is essential to ensuring our communities have reliable water for the future, especially during droughts.\u201d\n\nCosta secured legislative language to mandate the Secretary of the Army to fast-track a feasibility study required for raising Pine Flat Dam. If the study shows the project is justified, it could move directly into the planning, design, and pre-construction phases. The dam would be raised by 12 feet to increase the lake\u2019s existing 1-million-acre feet of storage by 124,000-acre feet.\n\nSevere flooding has damaged the region\u2019s infrastructure, inundated communities, and even reshaped Tulare Lake. Water projects like the Pine Flat Dam could help mitigate these impacts and better protect the region from future disasters.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/huffman-merkley-lead-bill-to-get-the-federal-government-out-of-the-fossil-fuel-business", "Huffman, Merkley Lead Bill to Get the Federal Government out of the Fossil Fuel Business", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jared Huffman", "H001068", "huffman.house.gov", "huffman", "https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA-02) and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) today led the reintroduction of the Keep It in the Ground Act\u2014comprehensive legislation to stop new fossil fuel extraction on public lands and in public waters.\n\n\u201cThe climate crisis is happening now. Communities across the country are already facing the effects of climate change, and it\u2019s critical we reduce emissions by keeping the world\u2019s remaining fossil fuels in the ground,\u201d Huffman said. \u201cThis legislation is one of the most sensible steps the federal government can take to reduce emissions, protect the public, and avoid the most damaging impacts of climate change.\u201d\n\n\u201cClimate chaos is the most significant risk humanity faces. The earth is telling us how much trouble we\u2019re in,\u201d Merkley said. \u201cThe last five years were the hottest on record\u2014each progressively more dangerous than the last. In my home state of Oregon, over 1.9 million acres were burned in 2024, the most acreage in the last 30 years. The only way to address this is to quit extracting and burning fossil fuels. We\u2019re paving the way to climate catastrophe.\u201d\n\nMerkley and Huffman reintroduced the Keep it in the Ground Act with U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and U.S. Representatives Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY-14), Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Jes\u00fas \u201cChuy\u201d Garc\u00eda (D-IL-04), and Jim McGovern (D-MA-02).\n\nFull text of the Keep It in the Ground Act can be found by clicking here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sens-markey-merkley-rep-huffman-introduce-no-spills-act-to-increase-accountability-for-offshore-oil-and-gas-port-licensing", "Sens. Markey, Merkley, Rep. Huffman Introduce NO SPILLS Act to Increase Accountability for Offshore Oil and Gas Port Licensing", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jared Huffman", "H001068", "huffman.house.gov", "huffman", "https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Representative Jared Huffman (CA-02) along with Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) today introduced the Nautical Oversight Safety and Protection of Inflammable Liquids by Law in the Sea (NO SPILLS) Act, which would strengthen the review process by which the Maritime Administration (MARAD) approves a license for the construction or maintenance of a deepwater port for fossil fuel exports and imports. The lawmakers introduced this bill as MARAD extended its consideration of Texas GulfLink, the second massive offshore oil export facility up for approval in the last few years after the Sea Port Oil Terminal (SPOT). GulfLink will have the capacity to export 1 million barrels of crude oil per day\u2014and 3 million per day from a single coastal community when combined with SPOT\u2014representing an unprecedented and unnecessary increase in export capacity that will cause irreversible climate harm and worsen air quality in a region already overburdened by severe air pollution.\n\n\u201cCommunities across the country are already facing the effects of climate change, and it\u2019s crucial we take a serious look at how dirty energy exports impact carbon emissions, environmental justice, and domestic energy prices,\u201d said Representative Huffman. \u201cThis legislation is a sensible step to strengthen the review process for deepwater ports and ensure that the federal government considers the environmental impact of approving more oil export facilities. It is a sensible step to protect the public interest, reduce emissions and transition to the clean energy future.\u201d\n\n\u201cOver the past few years, massive oil and gas corporations have been quietly cutting deals to export massive amounts of oil and gas right off the Gulf Coast\u2014deals that are then rubber-stamped by the U.S. Maritime Administration,\u201d said Senator Markey. \u201cWhen we drill deeper and export more, we put our planet, communities, oceans, and domestic consumer prices in peril. This commonsense bill will make sure the Maritime Administration is properly using its existing national interest determination process to review environmental and community impacts of offshore oil and gas export facilities before approval, and it would ensure fossil fuel companies have enough money set aside in case of disaster.\u201d\n\n\u201cIncreasing oil exports will increase costs for Americans and worsen climate chaos. This bill helps us better understand the risks that oil export facilities pose to our health and environment and whether these projects are in fact in the public interest. I\u2019ll continue to shine a light on dirty energy projects that threaten our families and climate,\u201d said Senator Merkley.\n\nUnder the Deepwater Port Act of 1974, MARAD is required to evaluate whether proposed deepwater ports are in the \u201cnational interest\u201d and are consistent with national policy goals and objectives, including for environmental quality and energy efficiency.\n\nDespite this directive, MARAD has never denied an oil export license. There is currently one operating oil import and export facility, one recently approved oil export facility, and three more oil export facilities currently awaiting licensing decisions\u2014including GulfLink. Between the recently approved and pending offshore oil export facilities, an analysis by the Global Energy Monitor found that the crude oil from these facilities could generate 24 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas over 30 years, equivalent to the annual output of nearly 6,170 coal plants, in addition to creating local air pollution and oil spill risks. This number does not include the recently approved offshore LNG export facility or the two more offshore LNG export facilities awaiting licensing decisions.\n\nTo address the risks to communities and climate posed by deepwater ports, the bill:\n\nIncreases the financial assurances and caps on liability required for offshore facilities;\n\nExpands outreach and notice for proposed projects;\n\nExplicitly includes public opinion and impacts to communities as factors that must be considered in the national interest determination test;\n\nExplicitly adds additional environmental review criteria as factors that must be considered in the national interest determination test;\n\nRequires a programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for projects in the Gulf of Mexico so that projects can be assessed together with cumulative impacts; and\n\nProhibits LNG research in MARAD\u2019s Maritime Environmental and Technical Assistance program.\n\nThe bill has been endorsed by the Center for Biological Diversity, Earthworks, Sierra Club, and Public Citizen.\n\n\u201cThis bill is a critical step toward ensuring that the public\u2019s voice and environmental justice are prioritized in making decisions about proposed oil and gas export projects. As frontline and Indigenous communities continue to endure climate-induced disasters, and the costs of oil and gas are rising, the Deepwater Port Act needs to effectively evaluate and mitigate all harmful impacts of expanding fossil fuel exports,\u201d said Kelsey Crane, senior policy advocate at Earthworks.\n\n\u201cThis bill is desperately needed to protect Gulf communities and marine life from the harms of massive deepwater oil export terminals,\u201d said Lauren Parker, Attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity\u2019s Climate Law Institute. \u201cThese dangerous, dirty projects risk oil spills, pollute communities and could condemn animals like the Rice\u2019s whale to extinction. With Trump determined to unleash environmental destruction, bills like this are critical to protecting our planet and future generations.\u201d\n\nIn November 2024, Rep. Huffman and Senator Markey led an open letter alongside more than 130 international lawmakers during this year\u2019s United Nations global climate conference, COP29, urging world leaders and UN-level negotiators to support an immediate moratorium on the expansion of LNG infrastructure worldwide. This follows a letter from September 2024 alongside more than 100 international lawmakers to the Biden administration urging it to reject new LNG exports, as well as a letter from July 2024 urging the Department of Energy to consider the disproportionate negative impacts of LNG exports on New England.\n\nIn August 2024, Huffman joined Markey on a letter with twenty other colleagues in the Senate and House to Rear Admiral (Ret.) Ann C. Phillips, Administrator of the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration (MARAD), encouraging MARAD to update its approval criteria for deepwater oil export ports.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://issa.house.gov/media/press-releases/issa-legislation-preserve-jamul-tribe-land-passes-house-now-headed-presidents", "Issa Legislation to Preserve Jamul Tribe Land Passes House, Now Headed to President's Desk", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "CA", "Darrell Issa", "I000056", "issa.house.gov", "issa", "https://issa.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Senate-companion legislation authored by Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) to place 172 acres of land in East County, San Diego into tribal trust for the Jamul Indian Village passed the House and heads to President Biden\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cThe Jamul Indian Village has sought for years to bring tribal members back onto their ancestral land \u2013 so they can raise their families, carry forward their culture, and add to their history,\u201d said Rep. Issa. \u201cThis is the right thing to do, and it empowers not government, but individuals, to take new charge and best care of their lives. This Fee-to-Trust bill provides that opportunity, securing Jamul\u2019s land, preserving its sacred sites, and protecting Kumeyaay traditions for generations to come. My thanks to Senator Padilla and Congressman Vargas for their support in pushing forth this important legislation.\u201d\n\nThe 172 acres are currently owned by the Jamul Indian Village, which includes residential land for homes and council buildings, an ancestral cemetery, and the tribe\u2019s only road for transportation.\n\n\u201cAfter years of sacrifice in their efforts to achieve self-determination, the Jamul Indian Village will finally get the true homeland they deserve to preserve their sacred history,\u201d said Senator Padilla. \u201cI am honored to have worked alongside the Jamul Indian Village and Congressman Issa to strengthen the Tribe\u2019s community development and permanently safeguard their home for the benefit of their members.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor years, the Jamul Indian Village has been fighting to restore their homeland and rebuild their communities. Today, we mark a milestone in these efforts as the Jamul Indian Village Land Transfer Act passes Congress,\u201d said Rep. Juan Vargas. \u201cThis bill honors the Jamul Indian Village\u2019s right to place their land into trust, protecting traditions and sacred sites for future generations. Thank you to Congressman Issa and Senator Padilla for their leadership on this issue. It was an honor to work on this legislation alongside my colleagues and Jamul Indian Village leaders, and I look forward to seeing it swiftly signed into law.\u201d\n\nRead the bill text here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://kamlager-dove.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kamlager-dove-senator-hickenlooper-lead-bipartisan-group-lawmakers", "Rep. Kamlager-Dove, Senator Hickenlooper Lead Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers in Securing Final Passage of Bill to Institutionalize the Summit of the Americas", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Sydney Kamlager-Dove", "K000400", "kamlager-dove.house.gov", "kamlager-dove", "https://kamlager-dove.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Today, a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers, led by Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) and Senator John Hickenlooper (D-CO), celebrated the final passage of the Summit of the Americas Act as part of the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act. The legislation was co-led by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Reps. Mar\u00eda Elvira Salazar (FL-27) and Joaquin Castro (TX-20).\n\nThis bill ensures continued U.S. participation in the Summit of the Americas, the primary convening mechanism for Western Hemisphere countries to promote regional partnership and prosperity every four years. This legislation also supports the inclusion of the Cities Summit of the Americas as part of the larger Summit of the Americas process to bolster city and state diplomacy across the region.\n\n\u201cU.S. engagement with our Latin American and Caribbean partners is fundamental to our nation's prosperity and security. Every four years, the Summit of the Americas presents an unparalleled opportunity to strengthen economic ties and deepen collaboration with our closest neighbors,\u201d said Rep. Kamlager-Dove. \u201cI am proud to have led the effort to ensure that U.S. participation in the Summit remains a cornerstone of our relationship with the region. As a former state legislator, I look forward to seeing how the ongoing Cities Summit will help us address the root causes of some of our most challenging issues at the local level.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Summit of the Americas provides us and our democratic partners in the Western Hemisphere a unique forum to tackle the world\u2019s largest issues and deepen our economic ties,\u201d said Hickenlooper.\n\n\u201cThe Summit of the Americas is key to building a stronger, more prosperous hemisphere,\u201d said Dr. Cassidy. \u201cThe Senate reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties and promoting economic growth across the Western Hemisphere.\u201d\n\n\u201cColoradans understand that the Americas share more than a hemisphere; we share a braided culture, an economy, and a common destiny that we must write together,\u201d said Senator Bennet. By passing this legislation, Congress has committed the United States to continue deepening these relationships by institutionalizing such summits at least every four years.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am happy to see the Summit of the Americas Act I championed with Rep. Kamlager-Dove is part of the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act,\u201d said Rep. Salazar. \u201cI am looking forward to the Summit of the Americas in the Dominican Republic next year under renewed American leadership.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Summit of the Americas is an indispensable forum for the United States and our neighbors to come together and commit to multilateral, sustained progress for our region. I had the privilege to attend the Summit in 2022 and 2015, and I was deeply impressed by the opportunities it provides to strengthen international relationships and collaborate on the most pressing issues in the Western Hemisphere. The inclusion of this bill in the National Defense Authorization Act is a powerful sign of Congress\u2019s bipartisan commitment to international engagement, and I thank Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove for her leadership to codify U.S. support for the Summit of the Americas\u201d said Congressman Castro, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere.\n\nThe Summit of the Americas, first convened by President Bill Clinton in 1994, has long served to promote economic growth and prosperity throughout the Americas. The Summit brings together partners with shared democratic values across the Americas to problem-solve global issues like climate change and immigration, simultaneously serving as a forum for countries to elevate local policy issues that might otherwise go overlooked. The U.S. hosted the ninth Summit in Los Angeles in 2022 and Denver hosted the first-ever Cities Summit of the Americas in 2023, which hosts city, state, and municipal leaders from throughout the Western Hemisphere to build new economic opportunities.\n\nThe Summit of the Americas Act is the second bill that Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove passed into law in her first term in Congress. Her first bill, the GRATEFUL Act, was included in the FY24 NDAA that was signed into law by President Biden on December 22, 2023.\n\nFull text of the Summit of the Americas Act can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-aguilar-names-rep-mike-levin-chair-of-committee-on-caucus-rules-appoints-committee-members", "Chairman Aguilar Names Rep. Mike Levin Chair of Committee on Caucus Rules, Appoints Committee Members", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Mike Levin", "L000593", "levin.house.gov", "levin", "https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar appointed Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) the Chair of the Committee on Caucus Rules for the 119th Congress and named additional Members to the panel.\n\n\u201cCongressman Mike Levin is a dedicated public servant who works tirelessly to improve the lives of his constituents and make Congress more responsive to the concerns of the American People,\u201d said Chairman Pete Aguilar. \u201cI look forward to working with Mike, and all Members of the Committee, to ensure that our Caucus rules reflect our priorities and highlight our unity and our diversity.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s an honor to be selected by Chairman Aguilar to lead the Committee on Caucus Rules. As we navigate the beginning of the 119th Congress, the Democratic Caucus rules we implement will set the stage for how we legislate and govern,\u201d said Chairman Mike Levin (CA-49). \u201cIt\u2019s crucial that the Democratic Caucus\u2019s rules reflect our values, help us serve our constituents and better deliver our message across the country.\u201d\n\nPreviously known as the Committee on Caucus Procedures, the Committee on Caucus Rules (CCR) is responsible for evaluating and recommending changes to Democratic Caucus rules to best enhance the effectiveness and diversity of the House Democratic Caucus.\n\nThe members of the Committee on Caucus Rules in the 119th Congress are:\n\nRep. Salud Carbajal (CA-24)\n\nRep. Doris Matsui (CA-07)\n\nRep. Haley Stevens (MI-11)\n\nRep. Sharice Davids (KS-03)\n\nRep. Steven Horsford (NV-04)\n\nRep. Marc Veasey (TX-33)\n\nRep. Terri Sewell (AL-07)\n\nRep. Kathy Castor (FL-14)\n\nRep. Rob Menendez (NJ-08)\n\nRep. Madeleine Dean (PA-04)\n\nRep. Tim Kennedy (NY-26)\n\nRep. Chellie Pingree (ME-01)\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases/levin-and-curtis-introduce-co-location-energy-act-to-streamline-renewable-energy-development-on-federal-lands", "Levin and Curtis Introduce Co-Location Energy Act to Streamline Renewable Energy Development on Federal Lands", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Mike Levin", "L000593", "levin.house.gov", "levin", "https://levin.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, Representatives Mike Levin (D-CA) and John Curtis (R-UT) introduced the Co-Location Energy Act, a forward-thinking bill designed to unlock renewable energy potential by allowing wind and solar projects to be co-located on existing federal energy leases. The legislation provides a streamlined framework for developers to evaluate and build projects on already-disturbed federal lands with the consent of the current leaseholder.\n\n\u201cThe Co-Location Energy Act is a bipartisan, innovative way to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy with minimal impact to our public lands and natural resources,\u201d said Rep. Levin. \u201cCo-locating energy resources will help to streamline project approvals, reduce our emissions, and provide new economic opportunities for local communities. I\u2019m glad to work with my colleague Senator-Elect John Curtis on this bipartisan solution and look forward to continuing this effort in the 119th Congress.\u201d\n\n\u201cInnovation and efficiency are key as we work to meet energy demands and reduce emissions,\u201d said Rep. Curtis. \u201cThe Co-Location Energy Act takes a commonsense approach by leveraging already-leased federal lands for renewable energy development. By expediting permitting and ensuring that previously disturbed areas are fully utilized, this bill increases energy on the grid without compromising existing operations.\u201d\n\nThe legislation directs the Department of the Interior (DOI) to:\n\nAuthorize Renewable Energy Evaluation and Development: Renewable energy developers can evaluate and, with leaseholder consent, construct solar and wind projects on top of oil, gas, coal, and geothermal leased areas.\n\nAssess for Categorical Exclusions: The Department of the Interior (DOI) must analyze when wind and solar production on federal lands could qualify for a categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), responsibly expediting the permitting process. This is particularly relevant due to this legislation expanding renewable energy development in already disturbed areas.\n\nThe Co-Location Energy Act ensures that renewable projects proceed only with the consent of current leaseholders while making practical use of federal lands for enhanced energy production.\n\nAdditional Reading:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://matsui.house.gov/media/press-releases/matsui-statement-approval-californias-clean-air-act-waiver-cars-and-suvs", "MATSUI STATEMENT ON APPROVAL OF CALIFORNIA\u2019S CLEAN AIR ACT WAIVER FOR CARS AND SUVS", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Doris O. Matsui", "M001163", "matsui.house.gov", "matsui", "https://matsui.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07) released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) granted California a Clean Air Act waiver to set more stringent emission rules for light duty vehicles. The California Air Resources Board\u2019s (CARB) Advanced Clean Cars II regulation would require automakers to sell an increasing number of zero-emission vehicles in California over the next 10 years, reducing pollution on California\u2019s roads and cutting climate-warming emissions.\n\n\u201cCalifornia\u2019s leadership has once again raised the bar for combating harmful vehicle emissions and decreasing air pollution in our communities. Today\u2019s announcement by the Biden Administration is a vital step to ensure we can continue to lead the way to a cleaner and more resilient future,\u201d said Congresswoman Matsui. \u201cI have long fought for California\u2019s right to set our own stronger pollution standards. The state's waivers have been a key driver to advance clean transportation innovation and ramp up the deployment of zero-emission vehicles. Our policies act as a blueprint for how to set strong climate policies while creating jobs, saving consumers money at the pump, and protecting families from dangerous pollutants. We know that the incoming Administration will try to put the brakes on the clean energy transition and double down on dirty fossil fuels. California is ready to act as the bulwark against these attacks and remain the beacon for progress.\u201d\n\nThe transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, accounting for 27% of all greenhouse gas emissions. As co-chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC), Congresswoman Matsui has been one of the foremost voices in Congress calling for stronger emissions standards for passenger cars and light-duty trucks. Under the first Trump Administration, the Congresswoman led opposition to then-President Trump\u2019s attempts to revoke California\u2019s pollution standards, and the Congresswoman successfully fought for the reinstatement of California\u2019s authority under the Biden Administration.\n\nIn March of 2021, she led a letter with 70 of her colleagues urging the Biden Administration to take action to reinstate California\u2019s Clean Air Act waiver and restore the Obama-Biden tailpipe emission and fuel economy standards. In July of 2021, she led a follow up letterwith then Energy and Commerce Chairman Frank Pallone and 139 of her colleagues to reiterate the importance of reinstating the California Clean Air Act waiver.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-panetta-authors-and-introduces-bipartisan-bill-simplify-retirement-savings", "Rep. Panetta Authors and Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Simplify Retirement Savings Options for Seniors", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jimmy Panetta", "P000613", "panetta.house.gov", "panetta", "https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Monterey, CA \u2013 United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) authored and introduced the Retirement Simplification and Clarity Act, bipartisan legislation that would provide more flexibility and clearer guidance for Americans navigating retirement savings decisions. By addressing current barriers and complexities, the bill seeks to empower individuals with options and straightforward information for securing their financial futures. Rep. Darin LaHood (IL-16) is the Republican co-lead for this legislation.\n\n\u201cAs Americans prepare for retirement, they deserve clear, concise guidance and flexible options to make the most of their hard-earned savings,\u201d said Rep. Panetta. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation would provide older Americans with a more simplified process and flexibility to choose savings options that are right for them. By allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their retirement plans we can better ensure their financial security in the years ahead.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am proud to lead this bipartisan effort with Representative Panetta to help eliminate needless hurdles and reduce the confusion surrounding retirement,\u201d said Rep. LaHood. \u201cHardworking Americans planning for retirement shouldn\u2019t be burdened with complications that only create uncertainty about their financial future. Providing more flexibility and a better understanding of the process will help ensure Americans are more secure and better prepared for their retirement.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the Retirement Simplification and Clarity Act would implement recommendations from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to reform the complex 402(f) Notice process. A 402(f) Notice is a document provided to individuals leaving an employer and seeking a distribution from their 401(k) plans. The bill directs the IRS to redesign the notice using plain and concise language. The updated notice will include clear explanations of all distribution options, including rolling over savings into a new plan or retaining them in the current plan, ensuring individuals have the necessary information to make informed choices. Additionally, the bill would expand in-service rollover options by allowing individuals aged 50 and older to roll over their employee-sponsored 401(k) savings into an annuity.\n\nThe Retirement Simplification and Clarity Act is supported by financial planning experts and organizations advocating for retirement security.\n\n\u201cMany Americans are concerned that their savings will not last throughout retirement. Annuities allow retirement savers to replicate a traditional pension plan\u2019s guaranteed lifetime income stream,\u201d said David Chavern, President and CEO of the American Council of Life Insurers. \u201cThis important legislation will help Americans nearing retirement access annuity products they need to provide for a secure financial future.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-panetta-reintroduces-legislation-protect-immigrant-survivors-and-witnesses", "Rep. Panetta Reintroduces Legislation to Protect Immigrant Survivors and Witnesses of Crimes", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jimmy Panetta", "P000613", "panetta.house.gov", "panetta", "https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Monterey, CA \u2013 United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) authored and reintroduced legislation, the Immigrant Witness and Victim Protection Act, that would remove barriers for undocumented immigrant victims and witnesses who may be eligible for protection under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and other federal laws.\n\nImmigrant women and children are particularly vulnerable to domestic violence, and the rate of abuse against immigrant women is nearly 49 percent, three times the national average. While domestic violence is a consistently underreported issue, immigrant survivors are significantly less likely to report these crimes due to fear of deportation.\n\nU and T visas are available to undocumented immigrants who are victims of crime, abuse, or human trafficking and who cooperate with law enforcement. Current caps on the number of available visas, a backlog in visa processing, and unclear protections are hindering the reach of this program and the work of law enforcement to bring criminals to justice.\n\nThe Immigrant Witness and Victim Protection Act would lift lifts these arbitrary caps and prevent victim applicants from being detained or deported prior to obtaining immigration protections provided by those types of visas or protections under VAWA. Additionally, the bill allows applicants to be issued work authorization permits within a statutory timeline, making them less vulnerable to re-victimization or exploitation.\n\n\u201cToo many non-citizen victims and witnesses of crimes are afraid to step out of the shadows and participate in our justice system,\u201d said Rep. Panetta. \u201cThis legislation would remove obstacles for these undocumented individuals to cooperate with law enforcement without the risk of being detained or deported. As a former prosecutor, I know that strengthening trust with our immigrant communities is essential to public safety for us all and ensuring criminals are brought to justice.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-panettas-statement-looming-threat-holiday-government-shutdown", "Rep. Panetta\u2019s Statement on the Looming Threat of a Holiday Government Shutdown", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jimmy Panetta", "P000613", "panetta.house.gov", "panetta", "https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Monterey, CA \u2013 United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19 released the following statement after Elon Musk demanded Speaker of the House Mike Johnson back out of a bipartisan agreement to keep government open.\n\n\u201cAt the eleventh hour, Speaker Johnson is considering backing out of a bipartisan deal negotiated in good faith and careening our government towards a costly shutdown. This reckless behavior is not at the behest of the American people, the majority of whom would prefer vital government services to continue to function during Christmas and for their elected representatives to make progress on vital issues like health care access and disaster funding. No, this abrupt shift in position is because an unelected and unaccountable billionaire is demanding a loyalty test.\n\n\u201cA holiday shutdown is not in the best interests of the country or California\u2019s 19th Congressional District. Such a shutdown would result in 7,771 federal employees in our community, who I proudly represent, seeing their paychecks disrupted. Moreover, it\u2019s estimated that a government shutdown costs the American economy at least one billion dollars each week it\u2019s closed, with millions out of work and essential services for seniors, families, veterans, and small businesses impeded.\n\n\u201cThis is not a game; this is governance, with real stakes for real people. We are elected to lead, not to bow to the whims of wealthy influencers seeking to dismantle the government. It\u2019s time for Speaker Johnson to uphold his commitment to keeping the government open. Families, farmers, and federal workers are counting on us to do our jobs.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-brad-sherman-urges-sba-expedite-disaster-declaration", "Congressman Brad Sherman Urges SBA to Expedite Disaster Declaration for Franklin Fire Recovery", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Brad Sherman", "S000344", "sherman.house.gov", "sherman", "https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA) called on the Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator to swiftly issue a disaster determination for the Franklin Fire, ensuring timely relief for residents, small businesses, and communities impacted by the devastating blaze.\n\n\u201cIt is imperative that the SBA act quickly to make a disaster declaration so that those affected can access much-needed financial support,\u201d said Congressman Sherman. \u201cThis assistance will provide relief to rebuild lives, businesses, and the community as a whole.\u201d\n\nIn a letter to SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, Congressman Sherman emphasized the urgency of the situation and stressed the critical need for federal disaster assistance to support recovery efforts. If fully approved, a SBA disaster declaration would make low-interest federal loans available to homeowners, renters, and small businesses affected by the fire.\n\nThe Franklin Fire started on December 9th, burning more than 4,000 acres. The fast-moving fire has severely impacted an estimated 20,000 area residents, with over 12,000 people receiving a mandatory evacuation order, and over 7,000 people receiving a level 2 evacuation warning.\n\nFollowing an appropriate disaster declaration, the SBA can provide critical low-interest loans that help affected homeowners, renters, and business owners repair or replace damaged property and recover from the financial strain caused by disasters.\n\n\u201cI urge the SBA to move with urgency to make a formal disaster determination so that no time is wasted in providing relief to the families and businesses who need it most,\u201d Sherman added.\n\nCongressman Sherman remains committed to ensuring all available federal resources are directed toward helping the community recover and rebuild following this tragic event.\n\nSee: Fact Sheet on Potential U.S. Small Business Disaster Declaration and Disaster Loans\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://chu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-chu-bacon-lead-colleagues-requesting-top-appropriators-include", "Reps. Chu, Bacon Lead Colleagues Requesting Top Appropriators Include Robust NASA Science Funding in Upcoming Government Spending Package", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Judy Chu", "C001080", "chu.house.gov", "chu", "https://chu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Reps. Judy Chu (CA-28) and Don Bacon (NE-02) led a bipartisan letter yesterday to Appropriations Committee leaders in both the House and Senate, urging them to prevent erosion of U.S. leadership in space exploration and science by including $26.8 billion for NASA\u2019s topline budget and at least $7.8812 billion for NASA\u2019s Science Mission Directorate (SMD) in any final funding package for FY2025. The letter was co-signed by 20 other Members of Congress and endorsed by the Planetary Society.\n\n\u201cNASA is currently tasked with the ambitious goals of advancing human knowledge of Earth and other worlds, returning curated samples from Mars, searching for signs of life with next generation space telescopes, and returning humans to the lunar surface for the first time in over half a century. However, cuts to federal spending enacted last year are the most severe of several consecutive years of decreasing budgets for NASA and space science, totaling a $1 billion loss in buying power relative to the peak funding year of FY 2020,\u201d wrote the lawmakers.\n\nShould this trend of underfunding persist, NASA Science will face severe budget shortfalls leading to delayed, scaled-back, or canceled missions and the continued shrinking of investments in critical infrastructure, workforce, and technology development. Even with the modest increase in NASA funding within the President\u2019s FY2025 Budget Request, it\u2019s predicted NASA would lose up to 800 skilled civil servants in the next year, adding to the hundreds of agency staff and contractor jobs already lost at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Goddard Space Flight Center, two distinguished NASA Centers for space science. This would deprive the scientific community and the larger space workforce of expertise we cannot easily rebuild. Meanwhile, while the U.S. anticipates these budgetary shortfalls, China, India, and Europe have increased their space budgets by up to 10% annually and expanded their space exploration programs.\n\n\u201cCongress has the responsibility\u2014and the opportunity\u2014to restore federal funding and ensure that NASA and its commercial partners have sufficient resources to meet national priorities, safeguard our scientific progress, maintain our world-class workforce, and expand our understanding of the Universe and Earth\u2019s place within it,\u201d continued the lawmakers. \u201cAn increased investment in NASA will protect its critical missions, foster STEM education and innovation, and secure America\u2019s position as a global leader in space and science.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://costa.house.gov/media/press-releases/costa-statement-ag-ranking-member-race", "Costa Statement on Ag Ranking Member Race", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jim Costa", "C001059", "costa.house.gov", "costa", "https://costa.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) released the following statement:\n\n\u201cI\u2019d like to thank Congressman David Scott for his service and leadership to American agriculture in the last four years and congratulate Rep. Angie Craig on her election as Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Committee. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass a Farm Bill in the 119th Congress. By working together, we can achieve stronger results for our communities, rural and urban alike,\u201dsaid Congressman Jim Costa.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://harder.house.gov/media/press-releases/bill-passed-harder-s-bill-funding-local-fire-departments-passes-house", "BILL PASSED: Harder\u2019s Bill Funding Local Fire Departments Passes House", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Josh Harder", "H001090", "harder.house.gov", "harder", "https://harder.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Fire departments in San Joaquin County have waited over a year to be paid back after responding to fires on federal lands\n\nThe Fire Department Repayment Act addresses Recommendation 50 in the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission Report on fighting the wildfire crisis\n\nImage\n\nWatch Rep. Josh Harder speak on the House Floor in support of the bill HERE\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, the House of Representatives passed Rep. Josh Harder\u2019s Fire Department Repayment Act to ensure local departments are fairly and quickly compensated for fighting fires on federal lands. Harder first introduced the bill after meeting with local fire chiefs, and hearing departments were waiting over a year for the federal funds. In part due to a shortage of wildland firefighters, local fire departments are often asked to respond to fires on federal lands which can be very costly between staff pay and equipment costs.\n\n\u201cAs the wildfire crisis keeps getting longer and more dangerous, our local firefighters are being asked to do more and more dangerous work to keep our families safe,\u201d said Rep.Harder. \u201cWhen fires break out on federal land, local firefighters answer the call, whether or not they\u2019re waiting on reimbursement from the last fire they put out. The federal government isn\u2019t reimbursing fire departments for their services quickly enough, and it\u2019s unacceptable for the government to skip out on the bill. This legislation forces the federal government to do the right thing and get our fire departments paid ASAP.\u201d\n\nThis continues Rep. Harder\u2019s work to support firefighters and address the wildfire crisis.\n\nRep. Harder\u2019s Fire Department Repayment Act ensures that the agreements local fire departments enter with the federal government are completed more transparently and in a timely manner, helping give fire departments clarity about when and how much they will be reimbursed for wildfire costs. Specifically, the bill:\n\nEstablishes standard operating procedures for fire suppression costs agreements;\n\nReviews and modifies fire suppression costs agreements as necessary;\n\nEnsures the fire suppression costs agreements align with cooperative fire protection agreements; and\n\nExpedites reviews of standard operating procedures.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/after-resounding-win-in-first-round-of-votes-huffman-named-ranking-member-of-natural-resources-committee", "After Resounding Win in First Round of Votes, Huffman Named Ranking Member of Natural Resources Committee", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jared Huffman", "H001068", "huffman.house.gov", "huffman", "https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-02) was announced as Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee for the 119th Congress.\n\n\u201cIt is the honor of my lifetime to win this election and be named Ranking Member of the Natural Resources Committee. My entire career has been centered around natural resources \u2013 from my time as an attorney at the Natural Resources Defense Council to the past twelve years serving on this committee,\u201d said Rep. Huffman. \u201cI am incredibly grateful to the many partners who have supported me in my journey \u2013 tribes from around the country, environmental allies, and the overwhelming majority of my colleagues I\u2019ve served with here in the House. I will work day-in and day-out to honor the trust they have put in me to lead this committee. We have weathered many storms together and I believe we are better prepared than ever to tackle what lies ahead next Congress. This is a team sport, and I am excited and ready to lead this team.\u201d\n\nRep. Huffman is a proven and qualified leader, earning commitments from over 170 of his colleagues in this election. Huffman has served on HNRC for the past 12 years and served as a Subcommittee Chair/Ranking Member for the past 10 years. Huffman also represents a district that gives him a unique perspective and comprehensive insight on the issues reflected in Natural Resources. His district:\n\nHas more indigenous tribes than any district outside of Alaska;\n\nIncludes a vast array of public lands and waters;\n\nExperiences some of the worst impacts of the climate crisis;\n\nIs at the forefront of innovative climate solutions.\n\nPrior to Congress, he worked as a California legislator chairing environmental committees, an environmental attorney with the Natural Resources Defense Council, and Board President for a major municipal water district.\n\nThis announcement comes after his challenger dropped out following a 44-17 vote in the Steering and Policy Committee last night. The outpouring of support Huffman received during this race has included:\n\nhighlighting the importance of continuity, experience, and bold leadership for the Committee\u2019s critical work ahead.\n\nwho have been on the frontlines of Democrats\u2019 toughest battles.\n\nunderscoring the deep institutional knowledge and expertise they\u2019ve entrusted Huffman to uphold.\n\njoined a letter supporting Huffman\u2019s candidacy, and several others, including the , , , and sent individual statements of support, emphasizing the critical importance of centering tribal sovereignty and the protection of cultural and sacred resources in his work.\n\nEndorsement letters from the , the, , , and citing his leadership throughout his career fighting to uphold the nation\u2019s bedrock environmental laws that protect public lands, air and water, and this nation\u2019s endangered species.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://kevinmullin.house.gov/2024/12/17/rep-mullin-joins-rep-panettas-bill-to-start-process-for-national-heritage-area-designation-for-monterey-bay-region/", "Rep. Mullin Joins Rep. Panetta\u2019s Bill to Start Process for National Heritage Area Designation for Monterey Bay Region", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Kevin Mullin", "M001225", "kevinmullin.house.gov", "kevinmullin", "https://kevinmullin.house.gov/category/press_release/", "scraper", "Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) cosponsored legislation authored by Rep. Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), who introduced the Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act. The bill would initiate a comprehensive study to assess whether the coastal communities adjacent to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary qualify for designation as a National Heritage Area. Such a designation would highlight the region\u2019s unique cultural, historical, and ecological significance while fostering opportunities for local economic growth and community collaboration.\n\n\u201cMonterey Bay is a unique ecosystem with a longstanding history that supports a robust community and attracts visitors from across the world. California\u2019s coast and Monterey Bay in particular, are an integral part of what makes our Golden State the truly beautiful place that it is,\u201d said Rep. Mullin. \u201cI am proud to join this effort that would include a robust community process to study the feasibility of a Monterey Bay National Heritage Area.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Monterey Bay region is home to an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, history, and culture that deserves to be recognized and preserved for future generations,\u201d said Rep. Panetta. \u201cThrough the Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act, we\u2019re taking an essential first step toward recognizing and showcasing our area\u2019s unique identity. This study will help determine the feasibility and community support for this designation, while ensuring that local voices guide the process every step of the way.\u201d\n\nNational Heritage Areas are public-private partnerships that leverage federal support to empower local conservation efforts, provide technical assistance, and spur economic development without imposing federal land use restrictions or affecting private property rights. Designation would allow the Monterey Bay region to access additional resources to enhance tourism, preserve historical sites, and promote educational programs while retaining local control over land use and development decisions.\n\nOriginal cosponsors of the bill include: Reps. Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Anna Eshoo (CA-16), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), and Kevin Mullin (CA-15).\n\n\u201cThe Central Coast is home to some of the most scenic and culturally-significant landscapes, and that includes the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary,\u201d said Rep. Lofgren. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join Rep. Jimmy Panetta in introducing this bill that will allow the National Parks Service to study the coastal area near the sanctuary and determine whether it meets the standards of a National Heritage Area. This designation will help conserve natural resources, engage and educate the public, and celebrate our nation\u2019s diverse heritage.\u201d\n\n\u201cI fully support Rep. Panetta\u2019s efforts to designate coastal areas in San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo Counties as the Monterey Bay National Heritage Area,\u201d said Rep. Eshoo. \u201cThe lands include spectacular beaches, the world-famous Highway 1, John Steinbeck country, and famous landmarks such as Cannery Row and Hearst Castle. These extraordinary areas deserve recognition by the National Park Service so that future generations will have access to these treasures.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Monterey Bay region is a true gem, rich in cultural, historical, and ecological significance and it deserves to be protected for years to come,\u201d said Rep. Carbajal. \u201cThe Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act will help us gauge support for this designation while collaborating with local stakeholders and honoring community voices.\u201d\n\nMonterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act directs the National Park Service (NPS) to conduct the study, which will:\n\nExamine whether the region meets the criteria for a National Heritage Area designation, including its cultural, historical, and ecological significance.\n\nAssess the feasibility of establishing a local coordinating entity to manage the area in collaboration with community partners.\n\nInclude extensive consultation and listening sessions with local stakeholders across San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo Counties.\n\nThe Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act does not designate the area as a National Heritage Area. Federal law requires a study to be completed before such a designation can be considered. Should the study confirm strong community support and alignment with the criteria, further legislation would be necessary to establish the National Heritage Area formally.\n\nThe National Park Service would conduct a study, ensuring that the process is thorough, transparent, and inclusive. The agency will consult with the community to determine the most appropriate timeline to begin the study, ensuring alignment with local needs and priorities.\n\nExamples of existing National Heritage Areas include the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta in California, the entire state of Tennessee, and regions across West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Mississippi. These areas have demonstrated how National Heritage Area designations can enhance regional identities, promote economic vitality, and preserve invaluable cultural and natural assets.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://lieu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-bipartisan-task-force-artificial-intelligence-delivers-report", "HOUSE BIPARTISAN TASK FORCE ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE\u00a0DELIVERS REPORT", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Ted Lieu", "L000582", "lieu.house.gov", "lieu", "https://lieu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Today, Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries received the comprehensive report and key findings produced by the bipartisan House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence. Developed in consultation with committees of jurisdiction, the report includes guiding principles and forward-looking recommendations that may be appropriate to advance America\u2019s leadership in AI innovation responsibly.\n\n\u201cBecause advancements in artificial intelligence have the potential to rapidly transform our economy and national security, Leader Jeffries and I established the Bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence to ensure America continues leading in this strategic arena. Developing a bipartisan vision for AI adoption, innovation, and governance is no easy task, but a necessary one as we look to the future of AI and ensure Americans see real benefits from this technology,\u201d said Speaker Mike Johnson. \u201cThanks to the leadership of the Task Force Co-Chairs Jay Obernolte and Ted Lieu and the hard work of all the Members involved, Congress has a better understanding of how to leverage the promises and navigate the complexities of this transformative technology.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe development and safe adoption of artificial intelligence holds great promise to make a positive difference in the lives of the American people, and Congress has an important role in bringing these benefits to fruition. At the same time, we must ensure that appropriate guardrails are in place to prevent bad actors from exploiting this transformative technology,\u201d said Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. \u201cThe Members of the Bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence worked hard over the past year developing a report that is serious, sober and substantive in nature. I\u2019m encouraged by the completion of the report and hopeful it will be instructive for enlightened legislative action moving forward. I\u2019m thankful for the partnership of Speaker Johnson, the leadership of Reps. Ted Lieu and Jay Obernolte and the entire Task Force for coming together to produce a bipartisan path forward.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt has been my honor to lead the House AI Task Force in producing this detailed, forward-thinking, and bipartisan report. It is our hope that this report will inform the Congress and the American people on the advantages, complexities, and risks of artificial intelligence,\u201d said Chairman Jay Obernolte (R-Ca.). \u201cThe report details a roadmap for Congress to follow to both safeguard consumers and foster continued U.S. investment and innovation in AI. I\u2019d like to thank Co-Chair Lieu, Speaker Johnson, Leader Jeffries, and all of our AI Task Force members for their hard work this year. I am confident that this report will be an essential tool for crafting AI policy that protects Americans, spurs innovation, and secures American leadership in this revolutionary technology.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe bipartisan House AI Task Force report provides a foundation both to ensure that America leads in AI innovation and to ensure that we have appropriate guardrails to protect Americans. This substantive report is the result of conversations with experts, extensive research, and analysis among Task Force members and will hopefully serve as a starting point to tackle pressing issues involving artificial intelligence. Collaborating across party lines to find consensus is not easy, and that is especially true for something as far-reaching and complex as AI,\u201d said Co-Chair Ted Lieu (D-Ca.). \u201cDespite the wide spectrum of political views of Members on our Task Force, we created a report that reflects our shared vision for a future where we protect people and champion American innovation. We have made our best efforts based on the information we have, but with the rapid pace of change in both AI software and hardware, we are fully aware that we don\u2019t know what we don\u2019t know. This initial report is only the first step. I am grateful to work alongside my friend, Jay Obernolte, on this important effort and for the trust that Speaker Johnson and Leader Jeffries put in our Task Force. I also want to recognize all the tremendous staff work that went into running the Task Force and creating our report.\u201d\n\nRead the full report and key findings here.\n\nBackground\n\nIn February, Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced the establishment of a bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to explore how Congress can ensure America continues to lead the world in AI innovation while considering guardrails that may be appropriate to safeguard the nation against current and emerging threats.\n\nSpeaker Johnson and Leader Jeffries each appointed twelve members to the Task Force that represent key committees of jurisdiction and has been jointly led by Chairman Jay Obernolte (R-Ca.) and Co-Chair Ted Lieu (D-Ca.).\n\nMembership\n\nRep. Ted Lieu (CA-36), Co-Chair\n\nRep. Anna Eshoo (CA-16)\n\nRep. Yvette Clarke (NY-09)\n\nRep. Bill Foster (IL-11)\n\nRep. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01)\n\nRep. Ami Bera (CA-06)\n\nRep. Don Beyer (VA-08)\n\nRep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14)\n\nRep. Haley Stevens (MI-11)\n\nRep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51)\n\nRep. Valerie Foushee (NC-04)\n\nRep. Brittany Pettersen (CO-07)\n\nRep. Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Chair\n\nRep. Darrell Issa (CA-48)\n\nRep. French Hill (AR-02)\n\nRep. Michael Cloud (TX-27)\n\nRep. Neal Dunn (FL-02)\n\nRep. Ben Cline (VA-06)\n\nRep. Kat Cammack (FL-03)\n\nRep. Scott Franklin (FL-18)\n\nRep. Michelle Steel (CA-45)\n\nRep. Eric Burlison (MO-07)\n\nRep. Laurel Lee (FL-15)\n\nRep. Rich McCormick (GA-06)\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://lieu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lieu-applauds-passage-bipartisan-bicameral-bill-supporting-federal", "REP LIEU APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF BIPARTISAN, BICAMERAL BILL SUPPORTING FEDERAL COURTS", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Ted Lieu", "L000582", "lieu.house.gov", "lieu", "https://lieu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) praised the House passage of the Federal Judiciary Stabilization Act, which will make 10 temporary federal judgeships permanent. One of those judgeships includes a position in southern California. This bipartisan bill introduced by Rep. Lieu and Congressman Lance Gooden (R-TX) will help mitigate issues courts across the country have had with high caseloads and federal judge shortages. This bill is the companion to the Senate version, which was introduced by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and passed the Senate earlier this year. The bill will now head to President Biden to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cEnsuring greater stability for judgeships, including those in California, will help ensure our Judiciary can meet the needs of the American justice system. In making permanent ten temporary federal judgeships, we\u2019re eliminating the uncertainty that comes with an unpredictable legislative budgeting process. This is a bipartisan issue that impacts both red and blue states, and I\u2019m pleased to join my colleagues in both the House and the Senate in seeking to rectify this issue,\u201d said Rep. Lieu.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://lindasanchez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sanchez-bill-would-award-congressional-gold-medal-world-war-iis-aztec", "S\u00e1nchez bill would award Congressional Gold Medal to World War II\u2019s Aztec Eagles squadron", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Linda T. S\u00e1nchez", "S001156", "lindasanchez.house.gov", "lindasanchez", "https://lindasanchez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congresswoman Linda T. S\u00e1nchez (D-CA) yesterday reintroduced the Escuadr\u00f3n 201 Congressional Gold Medal Act to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the Mexican Expeditionary Air Force's Escuadr\u00f3n 201.\n\nNicknamed the \u201cAztec Eagles,\" the Escuadr\u00f3n 201 was sent to the United States to train and fight alongside American forces during World War II. The Mexico-United States cooperation in defense and military combat was unprecedented and marked a monumental alliance between the two countries.\n\n\"The Congressional Gold Medal is awarded to those whose contributions to our nation are extraordinary, and the Aztec Eagles certainly meet and exceed that standard,\" said Congresswoman S\u00e1nchez. \"These courageous men fought alongside the U.S. Armed Forces and played a vital role in securing the Allied victory in World War II. Their sacrifices in defense of freedom should be honored as a lasting symbol of the bond between our two nations.\"\n\nDuring the war, the Escuadr\u00f3n 201 provided close in ground support for U.S. forces and conducted long-range strikes deep into Japanese-held territory. It conducted 795 combat sorties and 2,000 hours of combat flying with the United States, during which seven Aztec Eagle pilots lost their lives.\n\nEscuadr\u00f3n 201 is the only military unit in Mexico's history to fight outside of its national borders. The unit is commemorated by a monument and train station in Mexico City. However, its contributions to the Allied effort go largely unrecognized in the United States, despite the many Mexican American families with connections to the squadron.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://lofgren.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-lofgren-announces-15m-federal-funding-covid-19-related-expenditures", "Rep. Lofgren Announces $1.5M+ in Federal Funding for COVID-19-Related Expenditures", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Zoe Lofgren", "L000397", "lofgren.house.gov", "lofgren", "https://lofgren.house.gov/media/press-releases", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is reimbursing Salinas Valley Health for a total of $1,544,351.83 for emergency health and safety expenditures incurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\n\u201cSalinas Valley Health played a critical role in delivering needed public health resources during the COVID-19 pandemic, including testing and screenings. I applaud this federal investment that will help cover part of the costs associated with these protective measures, and I will continue to advocate for all funds owed and additional reimbursements to ensure the Salinas Valley is prepared for future health challenges,\u201d said Rep. Zoe Lofgren.\n\nThis funding was authorized by the Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act and appropriated through the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, which Rep. Lofgren voted in favor of.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://obernolte.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-bipartisan-task-force-artificial-intelligence-delivers-report", "House Bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence\u00a0Delivers Report", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Republican", "House", "CA", "Jay Obernolte", "O000019", "obernolte.house.gov", "obernolte", "https://obernolte.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Today, Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries received the comprehensive report and key findings produced by the bipartisan House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence. Developed in consultation with committees of jurisdiction, the report includes guiding principles and forward-looking recommendations that may be appropriate to advance America\u2019s leadership in AI innovation responsibly.\n\n\u201cBecause advancements in artificial intelligence have the potential to rapidly transform our economy and national security, Leader Jeffries and I established the Bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence to ensure America continues leading in this strategic arena. Developing a bipartisan vision for AI adoption, innovation, and governance is no easy task, but a necessary one as we look to the future of AI and ensure Americans see real benefits from this technology,\u201d said Speaker Mike Johnson. \u201cThanks to the leadership of the Task Force Co-Chairs Jay Obernolte and Ted Lieu and the hard work of all the Members involved, Congress has a better understanding of how to leverage the promises and navigate the complexities of this transformative technology.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe development and safe adoption of artificial intelligence holds great promise to make a positive difference in the lives of the American people, and Congress has an important role in bringing these benefits to fruition. At the same time, we must ensure that appropriate guardrails are in place to prevent bad actors from exploiting this transformative technology,\u201d said Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. \u201cThe Members of the Bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence worked hard over the past year developing a report that is serious, sober and substantive in nature. I\u2019m encouraged by the completion of the report and hopeful it will be instructive for enlightened legislative action moving forward. I\u2019m thankful for the partnership of Speaker Johnson, the leadership of Reps. Ted Lieu and Jay Obernolte and the entire Task Force for coming together to produce a bipartisan path forward.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt has been my honor to lead the House AI Task Force in producing this detailed, forward-thinking, and bipartisan report. It is our hope that this report will inform the Congress and the American people on the advantages, complexities, and risks of artificial intelligence,\u201d said Chairman Jay Obernolte (R-Ca.). \u201cThe report details a roadmap for Congress to follow to both safeguard consumers and foster continued U.S. investment and innovation in AI. I\u2019d like to thank Co-Chair Lieu, Speaker Johnson, Leader Jeffries, and all of our AI Task Force members for their hard work this year. I am confident that this report will be an essential tool for crafting AI policy that protects Americans, spurs innovation, and secures American leadership in this revolutionary technology.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe bipartisan House AI Task Force report provides a foundation both to ensure that America leads in AI innovation and to ensure that we have appropriate guardrails to protect Americans. This substantive report is the result of conversations with experts, extensive research, and analysis among Task Force members and will hopefully serve as a starting point to tackle pressing issues involving artificial intelligence. Collaborating across party lines to find consensus is not easy, and that is especially true for something as far-reaching and complex as AI,\u201d said Co-Chair Ted Lieu (D-Ca.). \u201cDespite the wide spectrum of political views of Members on our Task Force, we created a report that reflects our shared vision for a future where we protect people and champion American innovation. We have made our best efforts based on the information we have, but with the rapid pace of change in both AI software and hardware, we are fully aware that we don\u2019t know what we don\u2019t know. This initial report is only the first step. I am grateful to work alongside my friend, Jay Obernolte, on this important effort and for the trust that Speaker Johnson and Leader Jeffries put in our Task Force. I also want to recognize all the tremendous staff work that went into running the Task Force and creating our report.\u201d\n\nRead the full report and key findings here.\n\nRead what they're saying about the report here.\n\nBackground\n\nIn February, Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced the establishment of a bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to explore how Congress can ensure America continues to lead the world in AI innovation while considering guardrails that may be appropriate to safeguard the nation against current and emerging threats.\n\nSpeaker Johnson and Leader Jeffries each appointed twelve members to the Task Force that represent key committees of jurisdiction and jointly led by Chairman Jay Obernolte (R-Ca.) and Co-Chair Ted Lieu (D-Ca.).\n\nMembership\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-panetta-authors-bill-start-process-national-heritage-area-designation", "Rep. Panetta Authors Bill to Start Process for  National Heritage Area Designation for Monterey Bay Region", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jimmy Panetta", "P000613", "panetta.house.gov", "panetta", "https://panetta.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Monterey, CA \u2013 United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) introduced the Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act that would initiate a comprehensive study to assess whether the coastal communities adjacent to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary qualify for designation as a National Heritage Area. Such a designation would highlight the region's unique cultural, historical, and ecological significance while fostering opportunities for local economic growth and community collaboration.\n\n\u201cThe Monterey Bay region is home to an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, history, and culture that deserves to be recognized and preserved for future generations,\u201d said Rep. Panetta. \u201cThrough the Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act, we\u2019re taking an essential first step toward recognizing and showcasing our area\u2019s unique identity. This study will help determine the feasibility and community support for this designation, while ensuring that local voices guide the process every step of the way.\u201d\n\nNational Heritage Areas are public-private partnerships that leverage federal support to empower local conservation efforts, provide technical assistance, and spur economic development without imposing federal land use restrictions or affecting private property rights. Designation would allow the Monterey Bay region to access additional resources to enhance tourism, preserve historical sites, and promote educational programs while retaining local control over land use and development decisions.\n\nOriginal cosponsors of the bill include: Reps. Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Anna Eshoo (CA-16), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), and Kevin Mullin (CA-15).\n\n\u201cThe Central Coast is home to some of the most scenic and culturally-significant landscapes, and that includes the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary,\u201d said Rep. Lofgren. \u201cI'm proud to join Rep. Jimmy Panetta in introducing this bill that will allow the National Parks Service to study the coastal area near the sanctuary and determine whether it meets the standards of a National Heritage Area. This designation will help conserve natural resources, engage and educate the public, and celebrate our nation's diverse heritage.\u201d\n\n\u201cI fully support Rep. Panetta\u2019s efforts to designate coastal areas in San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo Counties as the Monterey Bay National Heritage Area,\u201d said Rep. Eshoo. \u201cThe lands include spectacular beaches, the world-famous Highway 1, John Steinbeck country, and famous landmarks such as Cannery Row and Hearst Castle. These extraordinary areas deserve recognition by the National Park Service so that future generations will have access to these treasures.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Monterey Bay region is a true gem, rich in cultural, historical, and ecological significance and it deserves to be protected for years to come,\u201d said Rep. Carbajal. \u201cThe Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act will help us gauge support for this designation while collaborating with local stakeholders and honoring community voices.\u201d\n\n\u201cMonterey Bay is a unique ecosystem with a longstanding history that supports a robust community and attracts visitors from across the world. California\u2019s coast and Monterey Bay in particular, are an integral part of what makes our Golden State the truly beautiful place that it is,\u201d said Rep. Mullin. \u201cI am proud to join this effort that would include a robust community process to study the feasibility of a Monterey Bay National Heritage Area.\u201d\n\nMonterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act directs the National Park Service (NPS) to conduct the study, which will:\n\nExamine whether the region meets the criteria for a National Heritage Area designation, including its cultural, historical, and ecological significance.\n\nAssess the feasibility of establishing a local coordinating entity to manage the area in collaboration with community partners.\n\nInclude extensive consultation and listening sessions with local stakeholders across San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo Counties.\n\nThe Monterey Bay National Heritage Area Study Act does not designate the area as a National Heritage Area. Federal law requires a study to be completed before such a designation can be considered. Should the study confirm strong community support and alignment with the criteria, further legislation would be necessary to establish the National Heritage Area formally.\n\nThe National Park Service would conduct a study, ensuring that the process is thorough, transparent, and inclusive. The agency will consult with the community to determine the most appropriate timeline to begin the study, ensuring alignment with local needs and priorities.\n\nExamples of existing National Heritage Areas include the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta in California, the entire state of Tennessee, and regions across West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Mississippi. These areas have demonstrated how National Heritage Area designations can enhance regional identities, promote economic vitality, and preserve invaluable cultural and natural assets.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://ruiz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-ruiz-releases-statement-drones-flying-over-californias-25th", "Congressman Ruiz Releases a Statement on the Drones Flying Over California's 25th District", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Raul Ruiz", "R000599", "ruiz.house.gov", "ruiz", "https://ruiz.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25) released the following statement regarding drones flying over California\u2019s 25th District.\n\n\u201cI understand the concerns about the reports of drones flying over Coachella Valley. I have introduced the Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act which focuses on the safety and well-being of the families and individuals I serve. This bill would provide the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) with the ability to issue restrictions for manned aircrafts over our large gatherings and events. This week\u2019s situation is a clear example of why this bill is necessary,\u201d said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25).\n\nMy team will continue to monitor this situation. I encourage you to report any additional suspicious drone activity to the FBI by calling 1-800-225-5324 or submitting tips and video footage at www.tips.fbi.gov.\n\nBackground\n\nThe Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act is supported by a wide variety of local authorities and organizations. In a press release from October 8, 2024, City of Indio, Mayor and Councilmember, Guadalupe Ramos Amith, Chief of Police Brian Tully for the Indio Police Department, and Anschutz Entertainment Group, Inc. shared strong support for this legislation.\n\n\"As Mayor of Indio in California's 25th Congressional District, home to major outdoor music festivals, I recognize the importance of Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) for attendee safety. In 2024, Congress authorized TFRs for drone operators over large venues, yet this does not extend to open-air concerts. Audience safety should not vary based on event type. Passing this legislation will protect concertgoers, workers, and residents, while bolstering the economic benefits these festivals bring to our region.\" \u2013 Guadalupe Ramos Amith, Mayor and Councilmember, City of Indio.\n\n\u201cAEG places the highest priority on the safety and enjoyment of our guests,\u201d said Martha Saucedo, AEG's Chief External Affairs Officer. \u201cAEG was pleased that the recent FAA Reauthorization law included provisions to bolster FAA\u2019s authority to restrict unmanned aircrafts over large outdoor events, including concerts and festivals. The Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act would provide FAA with important added authority to issue similar restrictions for manned aircrafts over large outdoor concerts and festivals, and AEG urges Congress to act on this important bill.\u201d - Anschutz Entertainment Group, Inc.\n\n\"On behalf of the Indio Police Department, I strongly support the Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act. As leaders in law enforcement, our top priority is the safety and security of our communities. H.R. 5827, the Protecting Outdoor Concerts Act, represents a critical step in ensuring that large events, such as outdoor concerts and music festivals, remain not only enjoyable but also safe for all attendees.\" - Chief of Police Brian Tully, Indio Police Department\n\nBackground on the Legislation\n\nIn 2024, Congress enacted legislation specifying that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) may only issue temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) to protect individuals or property or to prevent unsafe congestion of aircraft, including drones, near aerial demonstrations or major sporting events. Currently, major concerts are not eligible to apply for TFRs under this law.\n\nThis new legislation mandates that the FAA must grant TFRs for outdoor concerts or festivals with a daily attendance of 30,000 or more.\n\nFor example, in 2024, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival drew 250,841 attendees over its various weekends. Specifically, the Stagecoach country music festival hosted 89,003 attendees, while Coachella welcomed 161,838 over its two weekends.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://sarajacobs.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-sara-jacobs-secures-key-wins-in-bipartisan-ai-task-force-report", "Rep. Sara Jacobs Secures Key Wins in Bipartisan AI Task Force Report", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Sara Jacobs", "J000305", "sarajacobs.house.gov", "sarajacobs", "https://sarajacobs.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) secured key wins in the Bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence (AI)\u2019s final report, which was released today. She secured many principles and recommendations on issues including strengthening the capacity of sectoral agencies, privacy and data protection, bias, global AI governance, transparency, robust oversight of kinetic weapons systems, and equitable access.\n\nAt a press conference earlier today, Rep. Sara Jacobs said:\n\n\u201cAs one of the youngest Members of Congress, one of the reasons I actually ran for Congress in the first place was because I felt like there were so many new challenges like emerging technology that Congress just wasn\u2019t keeping up with. Technologies like AI have so much potential \u2013 to solve big challenges like poverty and health care access \u2013 but there are also big risks. And it\u2019s up to us, in Congress, to make sure we set the rules of the road that help encourage the former and protect against the latter.\n\n\u201cThis is our opportunity to strike the right balance that encourages innovation and American leadership, while also creating guardrails that protect our rights and safety.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019m so proud of this report and in particular, some of these key things: As Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, I know the importance of distributing the benefits of AI equitably on a global scale and ensuring that no community is overlooked, forgotten, or exploited by this technology. To do that, we need to include civil society organizations and governments from the Global South in a global AI governance system and that\u2019s why I was pleased this report continues to encourage U.S. engagement in international standards development and further international collaboration.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m also glad that this report includes a recommendation to empower sectoral regulators with the tools and expertise to address AI-related risks \u2013 which mirrors legislation that I\u2019ve been working on for the past two years and will be introducing in the next term to ensure federal agencies have what they need to oversee AI systems, protect civil rights and public safety, and enforce existing federal law.\n\n\u201cAI and autonomous systems also have major implications for the future of the battlefield \u2013 some of which can help save our service members\u2019 time and lives and others which can be incredibly dangerous. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud that our bipartisan report recommends Congress to support DOD\u2019s policy requiring meaningful human control over the launch of nuclear weapons. This provision complements language that I championed in this year\u2019s NDAA.\n\n\u201cI hope that this report serves as a starting point for all of us \u2013 because we have a long way to go to harness the full potential and opportunities of AI, while also setting the rules of the road to minimize potential harm.\n\n\u201cAnd I hope that this report also shows that despite what this past election might lead us to believe, we can find common ground and bipartisan agreement \u2013 even and maybe especially on big, complicated, and rapidly evolving priorities like AI.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://scottpeters.house.gov/press-releases/rep-peters-secures-more-federal-emergency-funds-to-tackle-cross-border-sewage-pollution-in-upcoming-spending-bill", "Rep. Peters Secures More Federal Emergency Funds to Tackle Cross-Border Sewage Pollution in Upcoming Spending Bill", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Scott H. Peters", "P000608", "scottpeters.house.gov", "scottpeters", "https://scottpeters.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 Today, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50) celebrated the inclusion of $250 million for repairs and expansion of the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant (SBIWTP) in the year-end government funding and emergency supplemental spending bill. The funding for the dilapidated plant, which treats polluted water flowing from Mexico, results from Rep. Peters\u2019 years of work to convince his colleagues, congressional leadership, and the President of the urgent need to fix this dilapidated plant. This surge in federal investment will fully fund the repairs and expansion needed to double the wastewater treatment plant\u2019s capacity and combat cross-border pollution that fouls our beaches, sickens San Diegans, hurts our economy, and reduces our military preparedness. The House of Representatives and the Senate will vote on the spending package later this week.\n\n\"Just a few months ago, we broke ground on the project to fix and upgrade the broken plant \u2014 now we have the money to finish the job,\" said Rep. Peters. \"San Diegans have been calling on the federal government to put an end to this crisis for years. It is long overdue, and won\u2019t happen overnight, but our community will see the results as these fixes are completed and Mexico also improves its wastewater infrastructure. I will continue our work to monitor and study the health implications of pollution, and I will be zealously monitoring the progress of repairs to ensure we are never in this position again.\"\n\n\"I\u2019m incredibly glad to see funding for the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant included in this package. This critical investment is needed to fully fund the plant\u2019s rehabilitation and expansion project,\" said Rep. Juan Vargas. \"Toxic sewage pollution in the Tijuana River has hurt our health, our environment, and our economy for too long. It\u2019s unacceptable and our communities need relief. That\u2019s why our Congressional delegation has been fighting for solutions, and for this funding. Thank you to everyone who has joined us in raising their voice about this issue. It\u2019s made a world of difference. There\u2019s more work to do. But this is a big step forward.\"\n\nIn September, Rep. Peters and Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) led a request to congressional leadership for these exact funds to repair and upgrade the SBIWTP in any upcoming disaster relief funding package. These funds build on the $400 million the Congressional delegation has previously secured and include money for unexpected expenses and contingencies.\n\nFurther Background:\n\nRepresentative Peters has, for years, worked to address the cross-border pollution fouling San Diego\u2019s coastal waters, including pushing for additional funding to fix and expand the dilapidated SBIWTP. The following are some recent actions:\n\n2024\n\nIn January, Rep. Peters took to the House floor to demand that the President\u2019s requested $310 million to fix and expand the dilapidated SBIWTP in any upcoming spending deal.\n\nIn February, Rep. Peters joined members of San Diego\u2019s Congressional delegation to ask U.S. Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro about the effects of cross-border pollution on Navy operations.\n\nIn March, Rep. Peters celebrated the inclusion of $156 million, at his request, for the International Boundary and Water Commission\u2019s (IBWC) construction budget in the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations bill. The IBWC is the federal agency tasked with operating and maintaining the SBIWTP.\n\nIn May, Rep. Peters joined Rep. Veronica Escobar (TX-16) in a bipartisan request for $278 million for the IBWC\u2019s construction budget in the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations bill.\n\nIn August, Rep. Peters hosted Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma on a tour of the broken wastewater treatment plant.\n\nIn September, Rep. Peters joined members of San Diego\u2019s Congressional delegation to reiterate their call for a federal state of emergency declaration amid high levels of toxic gases.\n\n2023\n\nIn June, Rep. Peters led a letter with other members of the San Diego Congressional delegation to the governor of Baja California urging accountability for the Mexican government\u2019s commitments to build wastewater treatment infrastructure.\n\nIn July, members of the San Diego congressional delegation requested that the Environmental Protection Agency assist with directing environmental justice funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act to help stop the flow of pollutants and urged Secretary of State Antony Blinken to tour the broken plant.\n\nAlso in July, they sent a letter to President Biden and submitted an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024, calling on the administration to declare this crisis a federal emergency.\n\nIn August, he led two letters to the Office of Management and Budget and to OMB and the State Department, calling for urgent additional funding to confront this crisis.\n\nIn September, he proposed an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024 Interior, Environment, and Related Programs Appropriations Bill to boost U.S.- Mexico Border Water Infrastructure Grant Program funding. Additionally, he proposed two amendments to the Fiscal Year 2024 State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Bill to boost annual construction funding to the USIBWC to $100 million.\n\nIn October, Rep. Peters led a bipartisan letter to the Department of State demanding a complete account of how the SBIWTP fell into such a severe state of disrepair.\n\nIn December, he led a letter urging leaders of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate to include President Biden\u2019s $310 million supplemental budget request to repair the SBIWTP in any upcoming funding package.\n\nIn 2021, the San Diego Congressional delegation secured $300 million in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to fund an expansion of the SBIWTP from 25 million gallons per day (mgd) to 50 mgd. This funding, in combination with Fiscal Year 2024 funding, has supported the planning, study, and design of projects critical for the rehabilitation and expansion of SBIWTP. However, last year, we learned that significantly more funding is needed to rehabilitate the plant before the IBWC can expand it.\n\nIn previous years, Peters and colleagues have secured funding, introduced legislation, called for investigations, and arranged a visit by EPA Administrator Regan in response to the wastewater contamination crisis.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-norma-torres-calls-for-subcommittee-to-address-capitol-security-and-legislative-oversight", "Congresswoman Norma Torres Calls for Subcommittee to Address Capitol Security and Legislative Oversight", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Norma J. Torres", "T000474", "torres.house.gov", "torres", "https://torres.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Sends Letter to Chairman Calling for Bipartisan Action to New January 6 Report\n\nWashington D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Norma J. Torres (CA-35), Ranking Member of the House Administration Subcommittee on Oversight, issued a statement expressing her disappointment with the actions and priorities of the Subcommittee on Oversight Chairman Barry Loudermilk. The Congresswoman sent a letter to Chairman Loudermilk to highlight her concerns raised after the release of the second report on the January 6, 2021, insurrection, which ignored elements of the legislative branch and Capitol security and seeks to undo the bipartisan work of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6 Attack on the United States Capitol.\n\n\"With only three session days remaining in the 118th Congress, it is deeply concerning that the Subcommittee on Oversight has neglected the critical issues facing the legislative branch and Capitol security. Instead of focusing on the pressing safety challenges confronting Members of Congress and Capitol staff, this Subcommittee has spent taxpayer dollars defending the President-elect and spreading baseless conspiracy theories about the January 6th Select Committee.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe security risks facing the Capitol have only grown more urgent, especially after recent incidents, including a near-assassination attempt on the President-elect. Yet, rather than addressing real threats to our democracy, this Subcommittee has chosen to prioritize partisan attacks that offer no benefit to the American people.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe United States Capitol Police (USCP) and other legislative branch agencies are struggling with rising threats, officer wellness concerns, and ongoing security challenges. These are the issues we should be addressing, not distractions rooted in conspiracy theories. It is time for the Subcommittee to refocus its efforts on tangible, bipartisan solutions that ensure the safety and security of all Members of Congress and the integrity of our institutions. As we move into the 119th Congress, I urge my colleagues to work together to address the critical security needs of the Capitol. The safety of our democracy should always come before political gamesmanship.\"\n\nFull letter\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/steering-and-policy-committee-votes-for-huffman-to-lead-natural-resources-committee", "Steering and Policy Committee Votes for Huffman to Lead Natural Resources Committee", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jared Huffman", "H001068", "huffman.house.gov", "huffman", "https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Resounding Endorsements of Huffman Continue as Democratic Caucus Prepares for Final Vote\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Steering and Policy Committee voted for U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (CA-02) as Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee by an overwhelming majority. This recommendation will now go to the full Democratic Caucus for a vote tomorrow, December 17, 2024.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s an incredible honor to receive this recommendation and vote of confidence from the Steering and Policy Committee, and it gives us significant momentum heading into tomorrow\u2019s vote of the full caucus. I am grateful that my proven record, longstanding leadership and commitment to the committee is being recognized by my colleagues,\u201d said Rep. Huffman. \u201cNatural Resources has been my highest priority since I came to Congress 12 years ago. It is my life\u2019s work \u2013 water, wildlife, fisheries, public lands, tribal issues \u2013 and what I know and love the best. I am ready to roll up my sleeves and do the work to protect our treasured natural resources, lift up tribal and frontline communities, and lead us as a team to effectively fight against Trump\u2019s Project 2025 agenda and ensure we win back the House.\u201d\n\nThe endorsements for Huffman include:\n\nhighlighting the importance of continuity, experience, and bold leadership for the Committee\u2019s critical work ahead.\n\nwho have been on the frontlines of Democrats\u2019 toughest battles.\n\nunderscoring the deep institutional knowledge and expertise they\u2019ve entrusted Huffman to uphold.\n\njoined a letter supporting Huffman\u2019s candidacy, and several others, including the , , , and sent individual statements of support, emphasizing the critical importance of centering tribal sovereignty and the protection of cultural and sacred resources in his work.\n\nEndorsement letters from the , the, , , and citing his leadership throughout his career fighting to uphold the nation\u2019s bedrock environmental laws that protect public lands, air and water, and this nation\u2019s endangered species.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://lofgren.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-lofgren-announces-320k-federal-funding-road-safety-plans-watsonville", "Rep. Lofgren Announces $320K in Federal Funding for Road Safety Plans in Watsonville", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Zoe Lofgren", "L000397", "lofgren.house.gov", "lofgren", "https://lofgren.house.gov/media/press-releases", "page_html", "SALINAS, CA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that the City of Watsonville will receive $320,000 from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to develop and update road safety plans.\n\n\u201cMobility is key to our local, regional, and national economies, and thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, robust funding is flowing all around the country for road improvement projects,\u201d said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. \u201cI\u2019m glad to announce this federal investment to help the City of Watsonville develop and improve plans that will make roads safer for everyone.\u201d\n\nThis funding is part of the DOT\u2019s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, which supports the planning and implementation of comprehensive safety action plans to address roadway safety issues.\n\nThe DOT funding was provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Rep. Lofgren voted in favor of during the 117th congressional session.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://khanna.house.gov/media/press-releases/khanna-jayapal-warren-bennet-reintroduce-cbo-fair-scoring-act", "Khanna, Jayapal, Warren, Bennet, Reintroduce CBO FAIR Scoring Act", "2024-12-15", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Ro Khanna", "K000389", "khanna.house.gov", "khanna", "https://khanna.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Representatives Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) along with United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) reintroduced the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) Fiscal Analysis by Income and Race (FAIR) Scoring Act. This legislation seeks to provide policymakers with standardized data about the real-world effects of their policies across race and income groups.\n\nThe CBO is required by law to produce a formal cost estimate \u2013 describing how a legislative proposal would affect the federal budget over a 10-year window \u2013 for nearly every bill that is approved by a full committee in the House or Senate. While these cost estimates provide insight into the fiscal impact of proposed legislation, lawmakers have limited information about the distributional impacts across racial and income groups. The lack of reliable information about the potential socioeconomic effects of legislation inhibits the understanding of how policies are impacting income gaps and racial disparities, including if the policies are making the disparities worse or improving them. It also undermines lawmakers\u2019 ability to design effective policies that address racial and income inequality and support vulnerable communities.\n\n\u201cWe must do more to close the wealth gap in America that continues to widen across race and income,\u201d said Senator Warren. \u201cThis bill is a first step towards that end by providing lawmakers with the data they need to make informed decisions to advance racial and economic justice in future legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur country suffers from enormous income and wealth inequality, and too often legislation fails to account for how policy changes affect all Americans,\u201d said Senator Bennet. \u201cThe FAIR Scoring Act will ensure there is objective, non-partisan information on how the effects of legislation will be distributed by income and race to better inform lawmakers and the American people.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs wealth inequality becomes one of the greatest challenges facing the US today, I am proud to partner with Sen. Warren (D-MA) on the FAIR Scoring Act. Our bill standardizes the legislative scoring system and ensures that legislators consider a bill\u2019s impact on various socioeconomic groups. It is an important step to promoting strong, equitable, growth in the 21st century economy,\u201d said Rep. Ro Khanna\n\n\u201cWhen legislation is proposed, it is critical that we know all of the impacts of it, including on people who have been disadvantaged as a result of years of damaging policies,\u201d said Representative Jayapal. \u201cWhile the CBO currently scores the financial impacts, that leaves major question marks around what communities are affected. I\u2019m proud to co-lead this legislation that will help to ensure racial, gender, and economic justice is considered in introduced bills before they become law.\u201d\n\nThe CBO FAIR Scoring Act would:\n\nRequire the CBO to estimate the distributional impacts by race and income \u2013 in dollar terms and as a percent change in after-tax-and-transfer-income \u2013 for bills that have a gross budgetary effect of at least 0.1% of GDP in any fiscal year within the 10-year budget window;\n\nRequire the CBO to provide such scores to relevant congressional committees before the bills are reported to the floor, to the extent possible;\n\nRequire the CBO to prepare a report describing possible methods for conducting distributional analyses by gender to strengthen CBO\u2019s capacity to conduct analyses of the interaction between race and gender.\n\nThe CBO FAIR Scoring Act has been endorsed by The Washington Center for Equitable Growth, Our Revolution, Indivisible, Coalition on Human Needs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-spokesperson-statement-0", "Pelosi Spokesperson Statement", "2024-12-14", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nancy Pelosi", "P000197", "pelosi.house.gov", "pelosi", "https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Ian Krager, spokesperson for Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, issued this statement:\n\n\u201cEarlier this morning, Speaker Emerita Pelosi underwent a successful hip replacement and is well on the mend.\n\n\u201cSpeaker Pelosi is grateful to U.S. military staff at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center at Landstuhl Army Base and medical staff at Hospital Kirchberg in Luxembourg for their excellent care and kindness.\n\n\u201cSpeaker Pelosi is enjoying the overwhelming outpouring of prayers and well wishes and is ever determined to ensure access to quality health care for all Americans.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://barragan.house.gov/2024/12/13/rep-barragan-leads-federal-water-infrastructure-investments-in-south-gate-carson-lynwood-lakewood/", "Rep. Barrag\u00e1n Leads Federal Water Infrastructure Investments in South Gate, Carson, Lynwood, Lakewood", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nanette Diaz Barrag\u00e1n", "B001300", "barragan.house.gov", "barragan", "https://barragan.house.gov/news", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\n10 December 2024\n\nContact: Kevin G. McGuire: 202-538-2386\n\nKevin.mcguire@mail.house.gov\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44) celebrated the passage of S. 4367 the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, in the House of Representatives. The bipartisan legislation is expected to soon pass the Senate and then signed into law by President Biden. WRDA authorizes critical investments in the nation\u2019s ports, inland waterways, flood protection, ecosystem restoration, and other water resources infrastructure.\n\n\u201cWRDA 2024 authorizes federal dollars to support essential clean water and water conservation projects in communities across California\u2019s 44th Congressional District, including South Gate, Carson, Lynwood, and Lakewood,\u201d said Rep. Barrag\u00e1n. \u201cAll communities deserve access to safe, affordable, clean water, and the environmental infrastructure priorites authorized through WRDA will assist our communities in Southeast Los Angeles County and the South Bay to upgrade their infrastructure.\u201d\n\nWRDA 2024 includes several provisions for California\u2019s 44th Congressional District that Rep. Barrag\u00e1n pushed to be included in the final bill, including $36 million in funding authorization for multiple projects in South Gate, Carson, Lynwood, and Lakewood to support the installment and improvement of water supply infrastructure. The authorization of funds for these jurisdictions in WRDA 2024 is the first necessary step to develop the following projects and secure the appropriation of funding in the future:\n\n$5 million to remove PFAs contamination from an impacted water well in South Gate by installing a new treatment facility that will provide a clean drinking water supply.\n\n$11 million to reduce reliance on imported water in Carson by expanding use of recycled water by 840,000 gallons per day to irrigate local parks.\n\n$8 million to replace deteriorated sewer lines in Lakewood to prevent sewage backups and other potential problems in the local waste water systems.\n\n$12 million to build a new water storage tank and pump station facility in Lynwood to increase reliability of groundwater supply, and to replace deteriorated sewer lines.\n\nThese water supply infrastructure projects can provide safe, clean water and improve flood and water management, while simultaneously improving public health and bolstering climate resilience, particularly in underserved communities.\n\n# # #\n\nCongressmember Nanette Barrag\u00e1n represents California\u2019s 44th District. She sits on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and serves as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://barragan.house.gov/2024/12/13/rep-barragan-proposes-clean-water-justice-act-to-hold-polluters-accountable/", "Rep. Barrag\u00e1n Proposes Clean Water Justice Act to Hold Polluters Accountable", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nanette Diaz Barrag\u00e1n", "B001300", "barragan.house.gov", "barragan", "https://barragan.house.gov/news", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\n10 December 2024\n\nContact: Kevin G. McGuire, 202-538-2386 (mobile)\n\nKevin.McGuire@mail.house.gov\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44) introduced the Clean Justice Water Act, a bill that would increase the Clean Water Act\u2019s minimum and maximum penalties for criminal violations where a polluter knowingly dumps illegal pollutants into a sewer system or publicly owned treatment works plant. The bill also indexes these criminal penalties to inflation going forward.\n\nThe Clean Water Act\u2019s criminal penalties have not been updated by Congress for over 35 years, which limits the ability of the federal government to hold the worst polluters accountable.\n\n\u201cFor too long, corporations caught polluting the water of communities in my district and around the country have faced fines that are a small fraction of their annual profits,\u201d said Rep. Barrag\u00e1n. \u201cIn order to have true accountability and deter this behavior, we need to increase the penalties. The Clean Justice Water Act will update the tools the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Environmental Protection Agency have to hold these polluters accountable and protect our communities from harmful pollution in their water.\u201d\n\nIn November, the DOJ charged Phillips 66 with Clean Water Act violations because of their illegal discharging of hundreds of thousands of gallons of industrial wastewater from its Carson oil refinery into the Los Angeles County sewer system, and a failure to report the violations to authorities. If convicted of all charges, Phillips 66 would face up to $2.4 million in fines. In 2023, Phillips 66 had an annual profit of $7 billion.\n\nThe Clean Water Justice Act would:\n\nIncrease the minimum and maximum fines for a person who knowingly dumps pollution into a sewer system in violation of the Clean Water Act from\n\nA minimum of $5,000 per day of violation to $25,000 per day\n\nA maximum of $50,000 per day of violation to $250,000 per day\n\nIncreases the maximum fine for a repeat violation from $100,000 per day of violation to $500,000 per day.\n\nIndexes the above updated penalties to inflation going forward, based on the same approach agencies use to update civil penalties.\n\nThe Clean Water Justice Act is cosponsored by Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib.\n\nIt is supported by Earthjustice and the National Wildlife Foundation.\n\nA copy of the bill can be found here.\n\n###\n\nCongressmember Nanette Barrag\u00e1n represents California\u2019s 44th District. She sits on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and serves as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://costa.house.gov/media/press-releases/over-75-organizations-endorse-rep-jim-costa-ranking-member-house-agriculture", "Over 75 Organizations endorse Rep. Jim Costa for Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Committee", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jim Costa", "C001059", "costa.house.gov", "costa", "https://costa.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Over 75 national and California-based organizations have endorsed Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) to serve as Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Committee. These endorsements reflect broad support for Costa\u2019s proven leadership and commitment to strengthening agricultural policy in the United States.\n\nAmong them include the African American Farmers of California, Almond Alliance, American Pistachio Growers, California Farm Bureau, California Farmworker Foundation, California Citrus Mutual, California Association of Food Banks, North American Blueberry Council, Family Farm Alliance, Milk Producers Council, and the Wine Institute. A copy of the endorsement letter is available HERE.\n\nWHAT ARE THEY SAYING?\n\n\u201cRep. Costa has long been a champion of specialty crop producers as he has helped craft four Farm Bills. He has served as a conference negotiator, working across the aisle to find common ground and enact bipartisan, robust agriculture policy,\u201dsaid David Puglia, Western Growers Association (WGA).\u201cHaving served on the House Agriculture Committee since his first day in office, Rep. Costa has been chair and ranking member of numerous subcommittees, bringing the type of seasoned leadership required to get the next farm bill done.\u201d\n\n\u201cHe understands the complex nature of the Nutrition Title, the need to protect SNAP to ensure continued access to healthy and nutritious foods \u2013 especially in rural communities \u2013 and that support for food banks through programs like TEFAP are now more important than ever,\u201dsaid Natalie Caples, Co-CEO of the Central California Food Bank.\n\n\u201cStrong leadership is needed to ensure the completion of the Farm Bill. Congressman Costa has the knowledge, experience, and bipartisan approach to guide this process to a successful resolution. His ability to bring stakeholders together and advocate for balanced, practical solutions will be instrumental in addressing the diverse needs of the agricultural community and ensuring that the Farm Bill supports producers, rural economies, and vulnerable families alike.\u201dsaid Rose Tryon VanCott, American Agri-Women.\n\n\u201cRepresentative Costa has stood up against unwise budget cuts for affordable housing and water-sewer programs and assembled bipartisan support for these programs. As an expert in rural development policy, he has led important initiatives to improve rural housing programs. He will make a great Ranking Member of the House Committee on Agriculture.\u201dsaid Bob Rapoza, Rural Housing Coalition.\n\n\u201cRep. Costa has been extremely proactive in pursuing thoughtful solutions to ensure federal agencies carry out their important responsibilities in a manner that is responsive to the needs of U.S. companies in the international wood products industry. We look forward to working closely with him to pursue policies that foster growth in the forestry sector,\u201dsaid Ashley Amidon, International Wood Products Association (IWPA).\n\n\"Congressman Costa is a proven leader who brings with him deep expertise in agricultural policy and a bipartisan approach to solving complex challenges. His 4-H experience, advocacy, and commitment to our nation's agricultural research enterprise will be instrumental in helping advance critical priorities, such as food security, sustainable farming, and access to nutrition programs,\"said Glenda Humiston, Vice President for the University of California - Agriculture and Natural Resources (UCANR).\n\n\u201cThe Central Valley Community Foundation endorses Congressman Jim Costa to be Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Committee. Our vision at CVCF is a Central Valley where there are no barriers and all people have opportunity, and Congressman Costa is a champion for that vision. Our region and the residents who live here benefit from his leadership on the House Ag Committee.\u201dsaid the Central Valley Community Foundation (CVCF).\n\nAs a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee, Costa crafted three Farm Bills (2008, 2014, 2018), securing funding for new conservation programs, expanding markets, and elevating specialty crops by establishing Horticulture as its own Farm Bill title. Representing a district where over 28% of households rely on SNAP\u2014the 6th highest rate in the nation\u2014Costa has consistently fought to protect vital nutrition programs like SNAP and TEFAP during Farm Bill negotiations.\n\nIf elected as Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Committee, Costa is committed to:\n\nProtect Nutrition Programs like SNAP and TEFAP to support families facing food insecurity.\n\nDefend Conservation Investments from the Inflation Reduction Act, building on $7 billion for conservation, research, and disaster relief.\n\nInvest in Rural America by creating economic opportunities, improving housing, expanding broadband, and supporting HBCUs and HSIs.\n\nEnsure Fair Trade Policies that protect farmers and consumers from harmful tariffs and rising grocery costs.\n\nStrengthen the Agricultural Workforce by advancing the Farm Workforce Modernization Act and streamlining the H-2A visa program.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/coastal-habitat-conservation-act-signed-into-law", "Coastal Habitat Conservation Act Signed into Law", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Jared Huffman", "H001068", "huffman.house.gov", "huffman", "https://huffman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 On Wednesday, December 11th, the Coastal Habitat Conservation Act was signed into law, authorizing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife (FWS) Coastal Program U.S. The Coastal Program is a voluntary, partnership-based, habitat conservation program focused in 24 priority coastal areas along the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Gulf of Mexico, Great Lakes, and in the Caribbean, including the Chesapeake Bay. Within these areas, FWS conservation efforts are guided by a national strategic plan that integrates Service priorities with the shared goals of conservation partners and stakeholders.\n\nRepresentatives Jared Huffman (D-CA-02) and Jennifer Gonz\u00e1lez-Col\u00f3n (R-PR-00) and U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) introduced this bipartisan, bicameral legislation in May 2023. In September 2024, Rep. Huffman to promote the legislation.\n\nto watch a recording of Huffman\u2019s Floor Speech.\n\n\u201cCoastal ecosystems are essential to our nation\u2019s economy and well-being, yet they are increasingly threatened by climate change, pollution, and unsustainable development,\u201d said Rep. Huffman. \u201cImplementing this collaborative solution will help preserve the health and resilience of coastal habitats to benefit the wildlife, communities, and economies that depend on them for generations to come. I am thrilled our bill is now law and look forward to seeing all it will do to restore ecosystems and support local economies that rely on healthy coasts.\u201d\n\n\u201cClimate change, development and other pressures are challenging our coastal communities, increasing the need to strengthen successful efforts like the Coastal Program that serve to protect and engage them,\u201d said Senator Cardin. \u201cSigning the Coastal Habitat Conservation Act into law demonstrates our bipartisan commitment to strategic habitat conservation in coastal watersheds, which provide a host of ecosystem services such as recreation, tourism, fisheries and education.\u201d\n\n\u201cProtecting South Carolina\u2019s wetlands is an economic driver and ensures our natural resources are preserved for future generations,\u201d said Senator Graham. \u201cI am pleased the Coastal Habitat Conservation Act was signed into law, as it will help conserve our nation\u2019s important natural resources.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe passage of H.R. 2950, the Coastal Habitat Conservation Act, is a significant step forward in safeguarding our nation\u2019s coastal ecosystems. This bipartisan bill will ensure the continued success of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\u2019s Coastal Program, which has been instrumental in conserving vital habitats across Puerto Rico and the rest of the country. From restoring wetlands and dunes to supporting local farmers in protecting our watersheds, this program has proven time and again that when we invest in our environment, we also invest in our communities. I\u2019m proud to have worked alongside Congressman Huffman on this important legislation and look forward to seeing it signed into law,\u201d said Representative Gonz\u00e1lez-Col\u00f3n.\n\nWhat Supporters Are Saying:\n\n\u201cCoastal habitats like mangroves, seagrasses, and wetlands play a critical role in buffering storm surge, minimizing sea level rise, and preventing flooding and coastal erosion. With storms, flooding, and other effects of climate change felt more and more every day, these habitats are only becoming more important,\u201d said Rachael DeWitt, Senior Manager of Government Relations at Ocean Conservancy. \u201cFor 40 years, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\u2019s Coastal Program has been essential to restoring and protecting millions of acres of habitat and providing significant conservation benefits to coastal communities, ecosystems, and wildlife. Now more than ever, we need to ensure the continued success of this program. The bipartisan Coastal Habitat Conservation Act will authorize the Coastal Program in perpetuity and provide consistent funding. We were thrilled to see Congress come together to support this critical legislation and thank President Biden for signing it into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur coastlines, wetlands, and waterways are the backbone of our ecosystem and economy,\" said Romaric \"Remy\" Moncrieffe, marine conservation policy manager for the National Audubon Society. \u201cBy funding the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\u2019s coastal program for the next several years, the bipartisan Coastal Habitat Conservation Act ensures our communities have the resources necessary to restore and protect their coastal areas, and the birds and people that rely on them.\"\n\n\u201cThis collaborative legislation shows that protecting our coasts is a bipartisan priority on which we all can agree,\u201d said RAE President and CEO Daniel Hayden. \u201cWe are grateful to Representatives Jared Huffman and Jennifer Gonz\u00e1lez-Col\u00f3n as well as Senators Ben Cardin and Lindsey Graham for their dedication to protecting coastal habitats and communities.\u201d\n\n\"Coastlines are a critical line of defense against the worsening climate crisis, for both the species and communities that rely on them,\u201d said Emily Donahoe, policy specialist for resilient coasts and floodplains at National Wildlife Federation. \u201cThrough collaborative partnership-based projects, the Coastal Program will help improve the health and resilience of coastal ecosystems to benefit communities and wildlife, and strengthen our coastal economies. The passage of the Coastal Habitat Conservation Act is a critical step forward in safeguarding our nation\u2019s coastal ecosystems through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\u2019s Coastal Program.\"\n\n\u201cThe Coastal Habitat Conservation Act represents a major step forward safeguarding the future of the Chesapeake Bay and our region\u2019s economy. Investing in coastal ecosystems protects valuable wildlife habitat, bolsters our communities\u2019 resilience to climate change, and ensures the sustainability of our region\u2019s economy. We thank Rep. Huffman and Sen. Cardin for their commitment to working in a bipartisan way to get this important bill signed into law\u201d said Keisha Sedlacek, Federal Director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.\n\n\u201cThe Nature Conservancy appreciates the strong bipartisan support in both the House and Senate to reauthorize the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service\u2019s Coastal Program. The program is essential to habitat conservation in coastal areas that are often a patchwork of public and private ownership. By working in partnership with landowners to conserve and connect critical habitats, the Coastal Program provides the needed technical and financial assistance for seamless coastal conservation,\u201d said Stephanie Bailenson, The Nature Conservancy\u2019s U.S. Federal Water Policy Team Lead\n\nEndorsed by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Choose Clean Water Coalition, Coastal States Organization, National Wildlife Federation, Ocean Conservancy, Restore America's Estuaries, The Nature Conservancy and National Audubon Society, the legislation directs the Secretary of the Interior \u201cthrough the Coastal Program of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to work with willing partners and provide support to efforts to assess, protect, restore and enhance important coastal landscapes that provide fish and wildlife habitat on which certain Federal trust species depend.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://lofgren.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-lofgren-announces-75k-federal-funding-support-rural-small-businesses", "Rep. Lofgren Announces $75K in Federal Funding to Support Rural Small Businesses", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Zoe Lofgren", "L000397", "lofgren.house.gov", "lofgren", "https://lofgren.house.gov/media/press-releases", "page_html", "SALINAS, CA \u2013 Today, U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that El Pajaro Community Development Corporation will receive $75,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to support current and emerging rural businesses in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties.\n\n\u201cSmall businesses help drive our local, regional, and national economies, and I respect the El Pajaro Community Development Corporation\u2019s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs in the Central Coast. This federal funding will help provide management resources for rural, small business owners, equipping them with tools for success,\u201d said Rep. Zoe Lofgren.\n\nThis funding comes from the USDA\u2019s Rural Business Development Grants Program, which promotes economic development and job creation in rural communities. The funding is projected to assist at least 75 businesses within Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties.\n\nThe USDA funding was provided by the FY24 consolidated appropriations package, which Rep. Lofgren voted in favor of.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://matsui.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-matsui-and-colleagues-call-congressional-leadership-extend-telehealth", "ICYMI: MATSUI AND COLLEAGUES CALL ON CONGRESSIONAL LEADERSHIP TO EXTEND TELEHEALTH ACCESS FOR SENIORS", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Doris O. Matsui", "M001163", "matsui.house.gov", "matsui", "https://matsui.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA), Congressman Mike Thompson (D-CA), Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ), Congressman Troy Balderson (R-OH), and Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) led a letter signed by 100 Members of Congress and Senators to House and Senate leadership urging them to extend telehealth coverage benefits so that all Medicare beneficiaries retain access to these services.\n\nWithout an extension by December 31, seniors on Medicare would lose access to critical telehealth services.\n\n\u201cThe benefits are clear \u2013 telehealth makes it easier for patients to pick up the phone, follow through on their appointments, and seek care sooner. That\u2019s why the expansion of telehealth services has been crucial for reaching our most vulnerable patients,\u201d said Congresswoman Matsui. \u201cRemoving barriers to telehealth has expanded access and improved the quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries \u2013 and we cannot afford to take any steps back. We have a nation relying on these services. That\u2019s why my colleagues and I are working hard to ensure that Americans continue to have access to convenient, quality health care that\u2019s right for them, when and where they need it.\u201d\n\n\u201cSince my days in the California State Senate, I\u2019ve been a big believer in telehealth\u2019s ability to save money, time, and lives,\u201d said Congressman Thompson. \u201cTelehealth allows patients\u2014especially those with low mobility or who otherwise can\u2019t make it to the doctor\u2019s office\u2014to access the care they need when they need it. Expanding Americans' access to vital telehealth services just makes sense.\u201d\n\n\u201cTechnology is critical in expanding access to care for not only Arizonans, but for citizens across the United States,\u201d said Congressman Schweikert. \u201cEven before the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth provided effective, affordable, and accommodating means of care. Telehealth is by far the most moral and bipartisan method of providing access to care, and we owe it to our everyday health heroes, physicians, and patients to ensure this resource is always available.\u201d\n\n\u201cTelehealth services have proven to be essential for our rural communities,\u201d said Congressman Balderson. \u201cFor many folks in rural and Appalachian Ohio, access to quality health care has long been a major challenge. With the technology we have today, we are able to improve health outcomes in our most underserved areas and finally close the urban-rural divide. It is critical for Congress to act and ensure federal support for telehealth services continues into 2025.\u201d\n\nA Co-Chair of the Congressional Telehealth Caucus, Congresswoman Matsui is a longtime champion of telehealth and improving access to care. She authored the Telemental Health Expansion Act, which permanently added mental health to the definition of Medicare-covered telehealth services, waived the geographic and originating site requirements for mental health provided through telehealth, and allowed Medicare beneficiaries to access these services at home. Congresswoman Matsui also introduced the Telemental Health Care Access Act, which would repeal the requirement that Medicare patients be seen in person before receiving virtual behavioral health care.\n\nA copy of the letter can be found below and HERE.\n\nDear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Johnson, and Minority Leader Jeffries:\n\nExpanded Medicare coverage for telehealth services is set to expire on December 31, 2024. As you work to advance a year-end appropriations package, we urge you to extend coverage as much as possible so that all Medicare beneficiaries retain access to these services.\n\nTelehealth plays a critical role in health care delivery \u2013 a fact that Congress has recognized by expanding coverage during and after the COVID-19 public health emergency. Most recently, in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Congress enacted a two-year extension of Medicare telehealth services coverage. Committees of jurisdiction in the House of Representatives have recently recognized the need to protect patients\u2019 access to telehealth services by voting to advance an additional two-year extension on a bipartisan, unanimous basis.\n\nWe ask you to prioritize provisions that remove geographic restrictions on telehealth services and permit the home and other clinically appropriate settings as originating sites. Congress should also expand the authority for practitioners eligible to furnish telehealth services. Rural and underserved communities rely on telehealth services, and Congress should recognize federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics as telehealth distant site providers. Additionally, Congress should allow the use of telehealth in the recertification of hospice care. Finally, telehealth has transformed mental and behavioral health care, now accounting for 40 percent of telehealth services provided under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. Therefore, Congress should permanently repeal the six-month in-person visit requirement for telemental health services. It should also reject similar policies that create barriers to care.\n\nTelehealth provides essential access to care and improves outcomes, including reduced emergency department utilization and improved medication adherence. Medicare beneficiaries have come to rely on expanded access to telehealth services and are satisfied with the care they receive. While there is overwhelming support for Congress to enact permanent telehealth legislation, we must provide patients and clinicians with long-term certainty to support continued investment in technology and clinical models to meet the evolving health care needs of Medicare beneficiaries. We appreciate your collaboration and leadership on this issue and look forward to working with you to ensure access to telehealth services is retained by the end of 2024.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://matsui.house.gov/media/press-releases/matsui-statement-boschs-chips-funding-deal", "MATSUI STATEMENT ON BOSCH\u2019S CHIPS FUNDING DEAL", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Doris O. Matsui", "M001163", "matsui.house.gov", "matsui", "https://matsui.house.gov/media", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), co-author of the Creating Helpful Incentives for the Production of Semiconductors (CHIPS) for America Act, issued the following statement after the Department of Commerce announced an initial agreement to provide up to $225 million in direct funding for Bosch under the CHIPS and Science Act.\n\nIn 2023, Bosch acquired the former Sacramento-area campus of TSI Semiconductors, where the company is planning to install a fabrication line for silicon carbide chips that are crucial for electric vehicles and chargers. This proposed funding would support Bosch\u2019s investment of $1.9 billion to transform its Roseville site to manufacture, produce, and test these chips by 2026.\n\n\u201cThe historic funding in the CHIPS Act has been a crucial catalyst to reignite domestic semiconductor manufacturing and create a secure, resilient supply chain for many years to come. Today\u2019s announcement is yet another example of how this funding is creating long-term economic anchors for communities across the country,\u201d said Congresswoman Matsui. \u201cHere in the Sacramento region, Bosch has already laid a foundation to enable them to fabricate silicon carbide chips \u2013 essential components for advances in clean mobility, electric vehicles, and other clean energy technology. Together with these CHIPS Act investments, we are ensuring America stays the global innovation standard for these leading-edge chips.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Matsui and Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX) introduced the original CHIPS Act in June 2020 alongside Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Mark Warner (D-VA). They successfully included an amendment based on the CHIPS Act as part of the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to enable the building and modernization of semiconductor manufacturing facilities in America. They also led efforts to secure this funding through the CHIPS and Science Act. Earlier this year, she introduced the Semiconductor Technology Advancement and Research (STAR) Act, bipartisan legislation that will supercharge U.S. semiconductor research and design by creating an investment tax credit for semiconductor design expenditures.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases/pelosi-spokesperson-statement", "Pelosi Spokesperson Statement", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nancy Pelosi", "P000197", "pelosi.house.gov", "pelosi", "https://pelosi.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Ian Krager, spokesperson for Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, issued this statement:\n\n\u201cWhile traveling with a bipartisan Congressional delegation in Luxembourg to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi sustained an injury during an official engagement and was admitted to the hospital for evaluation.\n\n\u201cSpeaker Emerita Pelosi is currently receiving excellent treatment from doctors and medical professionals. She continues to work and regrets that she is unable to attend the remainder of the CODEL engagements to honor the courage of our servicemembers during one of the greatest acts of American heroism in our nation\u2019s history. Speaker Emerita Pelosi conveys her thanks and praise to our veterans and gratitude to people of Luxembourg and Bastogne for their service in World War II and their role in bringing peace to Europe.\n\n\u201cSpeaker Emerita Pelosi was personally and officially honored to travel with the distinguished delegation, many of whom had family members who fought in World War II \u2014 including her uncle, Johnny. She looks forward to returning home to the U.S. soon.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://sarajacobs.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-sara-jacobs-sen-elizabeth-warren-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-bill-to-improve-privatized-military-housing", "Rep. Sara Jacobs, Sen. Elizabeth Warren Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Improve Privatized Military Housing", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Sara Jacobs", "J000305", "sarajacobs.house.gov", "sarajacobs", "https://sarajacobs.house.gov/news/press-releases", "scraper", "Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) introduced bipartisan and bicameral legislation to improve the quality of privatized military housing. The Military Housing Oversight and Service Member Protection Act would overhaul the privatized military housing system by increasing oversight, requiring further transparency, establishing tenant protections, providing appropriate medical care, and strengthening ethics requirements.\n\n\u201cOur military families sacrifice so much for us \u2013 and the least we can do is ensure their housing is clean, safe, affordable, and meets their needs,\u201d said Congresswoman Sara Jacobs. \u201cWhile we\u2019ve made progress in addressing inadequate housing across the country, we still have more work ahead to conduct necessary oversight, protect and empower tenants, and demand accountability for unacceptable conditions. Our military families deserve the best \u2013 and that\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to introduce the Military Housing Oversight and Service Member Protection Act to deliver comprehensive reform to our privatized military housing system that often overlooks landlords\u2019 negligence and silences military families.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Department of Defense owes a responsibility to our servicemembers to provide them and their families with safe and sanitary housing,\u201d said Senator Warren. \u201cThis bill will fundamentally reform a broken system and hold private housing providers accountable for their shameful failures.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is well past time to increase, stabilize, and regulate the housing supply available for servicemembers,\u201d said Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10). \u201cMy district alone is home to over 40,000 active-duty service members and their families who deserve to be securely housed.\u201d\n\nRep. Jim Moylan said, \u201cI am happy to announce that our office is co-leading with Rep. Jacobs the Military Housing & Service Member Protection Act. This act focuses on Increased oversight, Transparency, Tenant Protections, Medical care provisions, and a commitment to ethical practices. Our Warfighters deserve the BEST conditions when away from their appointed places of duty and our office is FULLY committed to ensuring this is realized. I will continue to work with congressional leadership to champion our service members quality of life both now, and always! Lastly\u2026 Go Army, beat Navy, HOOAH!\u201d\n\nThis legislation builds on the progress made by the bipartisan Military Housing Readiness Council Act, which Rep. Sara Jacobs and Sen. Elizabeth Warren passed into law last year. That law created a working group to monitor privatized military housing to ensure all military families have access to safe, quality housing.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://scottpeters.house.gov/press-releases/rep-scott-peters-announces-congressional-app-challenge-winners", "Rep. Scott Peters Announces Congressional App Challenge Winners", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Scott H. Peters", "P000608", "scottpeters.house.gov", "scottpeters", "https://scottpeters.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "SAN DIEGO, CA \u2014 Today, Rep. Scott Peters (CA-50) announced the winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for middle and high school students in California\u2019s 50th Congressional District. The competition aims to engage students\u2019 creativity and encourage youth participation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). A record 30 applications were submitted to this year\u2019s competition.\n\n\"We host the Annual Congressional App Challenge Competition in California\u2019s 50th Congressional District to highlight the value of STEM education,\" said Rep. Peters. \"This competition is a chance for students to develop STEM skills, embrace their creativity, learn about the variety of STEM applications, and recognize the limitless possibilities of coding and computer design. So many students this year identified challenges facing their communities and designed solutions to address them. Congratulations to everyone who participated in this year\u2019s competition and to our winners, Matthew, Luke, Kaelyn, Ryan, Cindy, Stephanie, and Mihir.\"\n\nThe winners, Matthew DuBois and Luke Graham of the La Jolla Country Day School, submitted the app \"CheckPoint Student.\" Students consistently had free periods first in their schedule, requiring them to drop what they were doing in the library and walk across campus to write their names down on a clipboard. CheckPoint Student saves time by allowing students to securely sign in at the location of a tag in a classroom or library, without saving location data or invading students\u2019 privacy. Instead, it utilizes Near Field Communication (NFC) scanning, similar to a contactless payment system like Apple or Google Pay. The CheckPoint Student app can also help account for students in emergencies, take attendance for clubs, and integrate with other services.\n\nThe 2nd place app, ePill, was submitted by Kaelyn Liu of Canyon Crest Academy. ePill is an easy-to-use pill tracking application that enhances patient care and prevents incorrect medication intake using deep learning. Patients upload a photo of the pills they intend to take, and the deep learning model ensures that the photo contains the correct medications in the correct dosage. It notifies the patient to ensure the medications and dosages are correct, logs medications successfully taken, and informs patients of their next medication time.\n\nThe 3rd place app, PaveScope, was submitted by Ryan Rezaei of Canyon Crest Academy. PaveScope is an advanced full-stack application that offers a comprehensive solution for road condition surveying and analysis. It utilizes drones equipped with GPS imaging capabilities in order to more efficiently survey roads without disrupting traffic and reduces overall costs.\n\nThe 4th place app, TosNOW, was submitted by Cindy Li and Stephanie Choi of Canyon Crest Academy. TosNOW is a Chrome Extension that automatically detects Terms of Service and Privacy Policies as a user browses the internet and integrates the latest generative AI to summarize convoluted legal documents for users to easily review how companies and organizations use and manage their data. After reviewing the Terms of Service, TosNOW extensions can help users feel more educated and in-control about the way companies and organizations use their data.\n\nThe 5th place app, FoodLink, was submitted by Mihir Bapat of Del Norte High School and is designed to tackle food wastage and hunger. Using the FoodLink app, donors can list what food they have in excess, while recipients like food banks can add what items they need to the platform. The app will then use AI to match donors and recipients based on their entries, assign a volunteer to drop the food off from one place to another, and generate the most efficient routes for drivers.\n\nThe winners were chosen by a panel of local expert judges who made their decisions based on the app\u2019s purpose, concept, technicality, creativity, and design. The winning app, CheckPoint Student, will be displayed on the Congressional App Challenge Website and on a digital display in the Capitol Building. The winners are also invited to the annual #HouseOfCode reception in Washington, D.C.\n\nThe winners of this year\u2019s Congressional App Challenge for CA-50 are:\n\n\u2022 First Place: CheckPoint Student, by Matthew Dubois and Luke Graham, La Jolla Country Day School\n\n\u2022 Second Place: ePill, by Kaelyn Liu, Canyon Crest Academy\n\n\u2022 Third Place: PaveScope, by Ryan Rezaei, Canyon Crest Academy\n\n\u2022 Fourth Place: TosNOW, by Cindy Li and Stephanie Choi, Canyon Crest Academy\n\n\u2022 Fifth Place: FoodLink, by Mihir Bapat, Del Norte High School\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://aguilar.house.gov/2024/12/12/rep-aguilars-bill-to-honor-dr-margaret-b-hill-becomes-law/", "Rep. Aguilar\u2019s Bill to Honor Dr. Margaret B. Hill Becomes Law", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Pete Aguilar", "A000371", "aguilar.house.gov", "aguilar", "https://aguilar.house.gov/category/congress_press_release/", "scraper", "Press Releases\n\nRep. Aguilar\u2019s Bill to Honor Dr. Margaret B. Hill Becomes Law\n\nToday, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced that his bill to rename the Del Rosa Post Office to honor the late Dr. Margaret B. Hill, a longtime educator and community advocate, was signed into law by President Biden on November 25, 2024.\n\n\u201cDr. Margaret Hill was the heartbeat of the San Bernardino community and touched the lives of every person she met,\u201d said Rep. Pete Aguilar. \u201cShe dedicated her life to making our community stronger through her work as an educator and youth empowerment leader. I am honored to have led this effort to enshrine her name in San Bernardino, and I hope this tribute will inspire us all to continue her legacy for years to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are beyond excited to finally see Dr. Margaret Hill\u2019s legacy honored at our local post office,\u201d said Erika Johnson, Dr. Hill\u2019s niece. \u201cOn behalf of the family, we would like to thank Rep. Pete Aguilar, Curt Lewis and the team whose commitment has made this possible. It is our hopes that when people see Dr. Margaret Hill\u2019s name it will encourage them to lead with kindness, love and to continue pursuing their dreams to make the community a better place. We take pride in knowing that her legacy will continue to bring light to those in the Inland Empire.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe legacy of Dr. Margaret Hill has been a testament of the work that has inspired many in the City and County of San Bernardino,\u201d said Dr. Gwen Dowdy Rodgers. \u201cI am excited to see this project completed, and I look forward to celebrating with the community.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn honoring Dr. Margaret Hill, we celebrate not only her remarkable contributions to our community but also the enduring legacy of love, wisdom, and service that she has instilled in us all,\u201d said Terrance Stone, Founder and CEO Of Young Visionaries Youth Leadership Academy. \u201cMay the post office bearing her name in San Bernardino serve as a beacon of her dedication, reminding us that our greatest strength lies in lifting each other up. With gratitude, Terrance Stone.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe naming this facility in honor of Dr. Margaret Hill is a great example of our democracy at work,\u201d said Alton L. Garrett, Jr., President, Westside Action Group (WAG). \u201cThrough the gallant efforts of Westside Action Group (WAG) and other organizations in coordination with the office of Congressman Pete Aguilar, the naming (\u201cDr. Margaret B. Hill Post Office Building\u201d) of this postal facility will ensure that Dr. Hill\u2019s outstanding work and love for her community will always be in the forefront.\u201d\n\nDr. Hill, who passed away in December 2021, devoted her life\u2019s work to ensuring that children in the Inland Empire, specifically black and brown students, have access to high-quality education. In 1971, Dr. Hill began her work in public service as a high school teacher at San Bernardino High School. She later went on to serve as a principal, an Assistant Superintendent of San Bernardino County, an adjunct professor and as the first Black member of the San Bernardino City Unified School District school board.\n\nRep. Aguilar\u2019s effort to rename the post office was endorsed by: National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa \u2013 Delta Rho Chapter, Athletes for Life, First Five San Bernardino Commission, Black Cultural Foundation, Kiwanis of Greater San Bernardino, San Bernardino African American Policy Advisory and Time for Change Foundation.\n\nRep. Aguilar first introduced the bill in March 2022. After reintroducing the bill in February 2023, it passed the House and Senate with unanimous, bipartisan support.\n\nThe newly renamed Dr. Margaret B. Hill Post Office Building will be located at 1663 E. Date Place in San Bernardino, California.\n\nRep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and as a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://barragan.house.gov/2024/12/12/random-lengths-news-rep-barragan-champions-federal-investments-in-water-infrastructure-for-south-gate-carson-lynwood-and-lakewood/", "RANDOM LENGTHS NEWS: Rep. Barrag\u00e1n Champions Federal Investments in Water Infrastructure for South Gate, Carson, Lynwood, and Lakewood", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nanette Diaz Barrag\u00e1n", "B001300", "barragan.house.gov", "barragan", "https://barragan.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Rep. Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44) Dec. 10 celebrated the passage of S. 4367 the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act or WRDA of 2024, in the House of Representatives. The bipartisan legislation is expected to soon pass the Senate and then signed into law by President Biden. WRDA authorizes critical investments in the nation\u2019s ports, inland waterways, flood protection, ecosystem restoration, and other water resources infrastructure.\n\n\u201cWRDA 2024 authorizes federal dollars to support essential clean water and water conservation projects in communities across California\u2019s 44th Congressional District, including South Gate, Carson, Lynwood, and Lakewood,\u201d said Rep. Barrag\u00e1n. \u201cAll communities deserve access to safe, affordable, clean water, and the environmental infrastructure priorities authorized through WRDA will assist our communities in Southeast Los Angeles County and the South Bay to upgrade their infrastructure.\u201d\n\nWRDA 2024 includes several provisions for California\u2019s 44th Congressional District that Rep. Barrag\u00e1n pushed to be included in the final bill, including $36 million in funding authorization for multiple projects in South Gate, Carson, Lynwood, and Lakewood to support the installment and improvement of water supply infrastructure. The authorization of funds for these jurisdictions in WRDA 2024 is the first necessary step to develop the following projects and secure the appropriation of funding in the future:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://barragan.house.gov/2024/12/12/rep-barragan-introduces-resolution-recognizing-december-14th-2024-as-interscholastic-athletic-administrators-day/", "Rep. Barrag\u00e1n Introduces Resolution Recognizing December 14th, 2024 as Interscholastic Athletic Administrator\u2019s Day", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Nanette Diaz Barrag\u00e1n", "B001300", "barragan.house.gov", "barragan", "https://barragan.house.gov/news", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE\n\n12 December 2024\n\nContact: Kevin G. McGuire, 202-538-2386 (mobile)\n\nKevin.McGuire@mail.house.gov\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44), along with Congressman Marc Veasy (TX-33) and Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) introduced a resolution to recognize December 14th as Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Day. Middle and high school athletic administrators play key roles in developing and maintaining high-quality education-based athletic programs for our nation\u2019s youth that promote physical activity, encourage healthy social connections and interactions, contribute to positive mental health, and foster academic success among student-athletes.\n\n\u201cI am proud to reintroduce my resolution acknowledging the essential contributions of interscholastic athletic administrators,\u201d said Rep. Barrag\u00e1n. \u201cThese administrators are champions of student success, fostering health, discipline, and academic achievement through school sports programs. They lay the groundwork for young athletes who may one day shine representing Team USA at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am proud to partner with Rep. Barragan to introduce this resolution recognizing Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Day on December 14th,\u201d said Congressman Marc Veasey. \u201cAthletic administrators play a vital role in our children\u2019s development. They not only provide opportunities for students to pursue their athletic passions and abilities, but also foster a sense of community and belonging. Their work ensures the success of students with athletic aspirations. Without them, our children\u2019s education and their ability to chase their dreams would be significantly diminished. It\u2019s an honor to give long overdue recognition to these dedicated professionals.\u201d\n\n\u201cAthletic administrators have such an important role in the lives of the students they serve. I\u2019m proud to again introduce this resolution for Interscholastic Athletic Administrators\u2019 Day to recognize their important work.\u201d said Senator Braun.\n\n\u201cThe job of being an athletic administrator is a very demanding job and it requires a huge commitment from our athletic administrators and families,\u201d said Phil Rison, Executive Director of the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. \u201cAthletic administrators are coaching coaches and working with student-athletes to ensure our programs are developing them through the curriculum of sport. We are so thankful that Congress recognizes that daily effort and commitment. We deeply appreciate Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) and Representative Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (D-CA) along with Representatives Andr\u00e9 Carson (D-IN) and Marc Veasey (D-TX) for leading this resolution of support.\u201d\n\nResearch shows that student-athletes who participate in their school\u2019s athletics program have higher attendance rates than the general school population, attain higher GPAs than non-student athletes, have lower suspension and expulsion rates than non-student athletes, and have higher graduation and college attendance rates than the general high school student body. Additionally, participation in school athletics programs is a stress outlet for many students and improves their self-confidence, self-discipline, and decision-making skills. Athletic administrators and athletics programs support over 8,000,000 US high school student-athletes alone.\n\nThe resolution is cosponsored by: Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), \u00c1ndre Carson (IN-07), Hank Johnson (GA-04), and Don Davis (NC-01)\n\nYou can find the full text of the resolution here.\n\n###\n\nCongressmember Nanette Barrag\u00e1n represents California\u2019s 44th District. She sits on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and serves as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://carbajal.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3091", "Carbajal-Thompson Bill to Improve Conditions in Military Housing on Track to Become Law", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "CA", "Salud O. Carbajal", "C001112", "carbajal.house.gov", "carbajal", "https://carbajal.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Legislation sponsored by Congressman Salud Carbajal (CA-24) and Glenn \u201cGT\u201d Thompson (PA-15) to improve military families\u2019 ability to compare housing options and identify subpar living conditions was approved yesterday by the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\nThe Military Housing Transparency and Accountability Act was included in this year\u2019s annual defense policy legislation that was finalized this week and is expected to become law by the end of the month.\n\n\"Our servicemembers \u2013 who sacrifice so much to protect our country \u2013 deserve reliable and safe housing for themselves and their families. However, too often I hear stories of military housing not meeting those standards,\" Rep. Carbajal said. \u201cAs a veteran, I\u2019m proud to see this bipartisan solution to improve housing conditions and accountability on its way to becoming law. By providing a way for servicemembers to see and compare housing options, and to report issues and hazards in real-time, we can improve housing conditions for every military family.\"\n\n\u201cAs an Army dad, I know first-hand the challenges our service men and women face when finding safe and comfortable housing,\u201d Rep. Thompson said. \u201cThey should feel confident if an issue arises it will be resolved in a timely manner. Adoption of this provision is a step in the right direction and will improve transparency and oversight. I thank my friend Salud Carbajal for his partnership in making this happen.\u201d\n\nFor several years, military housing has been plagued with widespread complaints of neglect and unsafe conditions such as mold, lead-based paint, asbestos, poor water quality and sewage, and careless repairs.\n\nTo address the lack of information servicemembers have on military housing, Congress previously directed the Secretary of Defense to develop a centralized assessment tool for members of the Armed Forces and their family members to identify, rate, and compare housing options.\n\nWhile a step in the right direction to improve the living conditions for servicemembers and their families, it did not cover all military housing and provided little oversight requirements. Additionally, the Department of Defense has yet to implement this tool.\n\nThe Military Housing Transparency and Accountability Act, introduced by Carbajal and Thompson in May 2023, will expand access to the tool, upon implementation, to all servicemembers and their dependents, as well as enhance the reporting requirements to ensure accountability.\n\nThe bill will also enable servicemembers to report issues in real-time and find swift resolutions to inadequate conditions.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 2625, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"state\" = :p0 and \"year\" = :p1 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "CA", "p1": "2024"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=CA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 2346, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=CA&year=2024&party=Democrat", "selected": false}, {"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 279, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=CA&year=2024&party=Republican", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=CA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 2625, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=CA&year=2024&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=CA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "CA", "label": "CA", "count": 2625, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=CA&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "2024", "label": "2024", "count": 2625, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=CA", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2024-12-12,https~3A~2F~2Fcarbajal~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fdocumentsingle~2Easpx~3FDocumentID~3D3091", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=CA&year=2024&_next=2024-12-12%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fcarbajal~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fdocumentsingle~2Easpx~3FDocumentID~3D3091&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 1018.8424601219594, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}