url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at http://pelosi.house.gov//news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-on-indonesia-air-asia-flight-8501,Pelosi Statement on Indonesia Air Asia Flight 8501,2014-12-31,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Nancy Pelosi,P000197,pelosi.house.gov,,,legacy,"Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616 San Francisco — Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on the crash of Indonesia Air Asia Flight 8501: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of all those lost on Indonesia Air Asia Flight 8501.  In the midst of the holidays, as we gather together to celebrate with loved ones, we are acutely aware of the pain this tragedy represents. ""The American people stand with all those mourning the passengers and crew, and hope we can be of assistance in the investigation and recovery efforts.  “We hope it is a comfort to the families of the victims that so many around the world share in their sadness at this terrible time.”  # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bass.house.gov/press-release/statement-ezell-ford-autopsy-and-lapd-shooting,Statement on Ezell Ford Autopsy and LAPD Shooting,2014-12-30,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Karen Bass,B001270,bass.house.gov,,,legacy,"LOS ANGELES, CA—Congresswoman Karen Bass (D-CA) released the following statement after the release of the autopsy of Ezell Ford, an unarmed 25-year-old who was shot and killed by LAPD officers in August: ""I appreciate Mayor Garcetti’s actions today in requesting Ezell Ford’s autopsy be released to the public. I join with Mr. Ford’s family in grieving his death as well as wanting to make sure that justice is served.   “The information in the autopsy is one piece of evidence, but it does not tell the complete story. I echo calls for all witnesses to come forward to share their reports of what they saw last August. This information is vital to ensuring we have the full story of what happened.    ""Ezell Ford’s family and the South Los Angeles community deserve a full and impartial investigation surrounding the tragic events from this summer. There are many facts to consider—including the Mr. Ford’s mental illness as well Mr. Ford being shot in the back.  ""I will continue to closely monitor the Los Angeles Police Department’s, the office of inspector general’s and the district attorney's office’s investigations.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bass.house.gov/press-release/statement-possible-ambush-police-officers-south-la,Statement on Possible Ambush of Police Officers in South LA,2014-12-30,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Karen Bass,B001270,bass.house.gov,,,legacy,"LOS ANGELES, CA—Congresswoman Karen Bass (D-CA) released the following statement after two people fired on Los Angeles Police Officers Sunday night: ""I am deeply concerned about the shooting at two Los Angeles Police Officers Sunday night on 62nd and Hoover streets. This sort of gun violence has no place on our streets, and it only serves to make our communities less safe for all of our residents. At this point it is unclear whether the officers were the targets of the shooting, but I am relieved that no one was hurt in this incident. ""As community members we must strive to work together to rid our neighborhood of senseless violence. ""All lives matter.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://roybal-allard.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397795,Rep. Roybal-Allard Issues Statement on Ezell Ford Autopsy Release,2014-12-30,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Lucille Roybal-Allard,R000486,roybal-allard.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40) issued the following statement about the release of the autopsy of Ezell Ford, who was shot and killed in August by LAPD officers in the South Los Angeles area of her Congressional District:""It is critical that Ezell Ford's death be investigated thoroughly and impartially.  That is why I thank Mayor Garcetti for ordering the release of Mr. Ford's autopsy results.  This is an important step in making the fullest possible accounting of the circumstances surrounding Mr. Ford's death.  I also urge any and all witnesses to his death to come forward without delay, so that we have a clear and accurate picture of this event.  I will continue to monitor the ongoing investigations into this tragedy. ""My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Ford's family, as they are with the family of Omar Abrego, who also died after an encounter with police in my District in August.  I fully support the mission of our nation's law enforcement personnel to protect and serve the American people.  At the same time, their work must always be done in a manner that respects the law and the rights of the people they protect.  I also continue to support the right of the people to peacefully and legally express their First Amendment rights – including the right to assemble – in response to these deaths.""   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-lee-named-most-valuable-house-member-in-the-nations-2014-honor-roll,Congresswoman Lee Named Most Valuable House Member in The Nation's 2014 Honor Roll,2014-12-29,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Barbara Lee,L000551,lee.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.29.14 Congresswoman Lee Named Most Valuable House Member in The Nation's 2014 Honor Roll Oakland, CA The Nation has named Congresswoman Barbara Lee the Most Valuable House Member calling her a full-spectrum advocate for peace, civil rights, civil liberties and economic justice. It is with a sense of humility that I thank The Nation for the tremendous honor of being named the Most Valuable House Member' in its 2014 Honor Roll, said Congresswoman Lee. From ensuring economic justice and fairness to securing global peace and security, progressives have a lot of work to do in the 114th Congress. I look forward to continuing to work with advocates and my colleagues to promote freedom, equality and fairness. The Nation cites the Congresswoman as keeping her office door open to advocates and championship of causes that others neglect and waging the fights that others fear as key elements to the Congresswoman's ability to advance her progressive legislative agenda. Others honored by The Nation's 2014 Honor Roll include Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Attorney General elect Maura Healey, National Nurses United and others. A full list of honorees can be found here. ### Congresswoman Lee is a member of the Appropriations and Budget Committees, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip's Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity. Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pelosi.house.gov//news/pelosi-updates/a-year-of-progress,A Year of Progress,2014-12-24,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Nancy Pelosi,P000197,pelosi.house.gov,,,legacy,"Please feel free to forward this information to your family and friends. To learn more about these efforts, to express your views, or to sign up for email updates, please visit my website. I am also on Twitter at http://twitter.com/NancyPelosi. Sincerely,Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bera.house.gov//media-center/amis-updates/email-update-end-of-year-report,Email Update: End of year report,2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Ami Bera,B001287,bera.house.gov,,,legacy,"I sent an email update on Tuesday with an end-of-year report on my first term serving you. Join my updates now so you don't miss any in the future!   With 2014 coming to a close soon, this is a natural time for reflection.  For me, this new year will mark the end of my first two-year term serving you in Congress, and the start of a new term. I’m so grateful for the privilege of continuing to represent you. Over the past two years, we’ve all unfortunately seen far too much partisan gridlock and finger pointing in Washington. While it's been difficult, we’ve also made progress. My office has fought to create jobs, to lower our debt, to honor the promises we've made to our seniors, and to help local families fix problems they’re having with the federal government. So as we come together to enjoy the holidays, here's an end-of-year report on some of the major ways I’ve been fighting for you. Please scroll down below to learn more. Please also feel free to forward this report to anyone you know, so they can learn about how I’m serving them too. Happy holidays! Fighting for you in Washington   Even with the dysfunction in Washington, we've made progress in important areas like holding Congress accountable, caring for our veterans, keeping families safe from domestic violence and sexual assault, and more. Here are some examples: • Passing No Budget, No Pay: If Members of Congress don’t do their jobs and pass a responsible budget, then they shouldn't get paid. That’s why I became a lead sponsor of the No Budget, No Pay Act shortly after becoming your representative, and helped lead the effort to make it law for 2013. I’m now fighting to pass a stronger and more permanent version. • Passing the first bipartisan budget in years: I was also proud to vote for the first bipartisan budget to pass Congress in several years. This budget will help reduce our deficit by $23 billion. • Passing the Violence Against Women Act: One of my first acts was to vote for the bipartisan reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, which is now law. This law provides medical professionals and police tools to prevent violence and keep families safe from domestic violence and sexual assault. • Passing the 21st Century Health Care for Heroes Act: I was honored to co-author this bipartisan bill, which is now the law of the land and will help streamline electronic health records for veterans and service members. This will save money, make the transition to civilian life easier for vets, and help address the VA backlog. • Leading and growing the bipartisan Problem Solvers caucus: The Problem Solvers is the only large-scale organized forum in Washington where both Republicans and Democrats work together to move our country forward. As a leader of the Problem Solvers, I’ve helped grow our new coalition from 40 to more than 90 Members of Congress in both parties. • Helped Reverse Medicare Advantage Cuts: Earlier this year, the Administration proposed cuts to the Medicare Advantage program, and I worked in a bipartisan coalition to stop these cuts to protect seniors. I’m happy to report that our effort was successful. • Established the bipartisan California Public Higher Education Caucus: Earlier this year, Congressman Jeff Denham and I founded the bipartisan California Public Higher Education Caucus. Together, we’re advocating for the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) schools and their students in Congress to ensure the quality, affordability, and accessibility of California’s universities. • Introduced Women's Preventive Health Awareness Campaign Act: One of the first bills I introduced was the Women’s Preventive Health Campaign Awareness Act. My bill would launch a national public outreach campaign to ensure women have clear information about the preventive services they need to remain healthy. This will help save lives and lower health costs by finding and treating health problems early. • Introduced Doctors Helping Heroes Act: I introduced the bipartisan Doctors Helping Heroes Act to address a serious shortage of doctors at VA hospitals across the country. This will help address one of the primary reasons why some veterans have waited far too long for their health care. • Introduced Small Business and Family Relief Act: I introduced this bipartisan bill to make health care more affordable for working families, small businesses, and seniors. It helps roll back a new health insurance tax that is part of the Affordable Care Act, which is expected to cost the typical family an additional $660 this year and in 2015 alone.  Delivering for Sacramento County  Despite the dysfunction in Washington, I've managed to get some important work done for our local economy. More than 20,000 jobs have been created in Sacramento County since 2012, but our work is far from over. That’s why I won’t take a congressional pay raise until our County’s unemployment rate is below 5 percent. • Secured funding to upgrade the Folsom Dam: I voted for a bill to fund improvements at the Folsom Dam, which is now law. These upgrades, which are now underway, will help Folsom Lake store more water to help with our drought and provide better flood protection in wetter years. The first of several new large gates was installed earlier this year, and I was proud to help celebrate this critical milestone in the project’s construction. • Advocated for a major Federal contract for Siemens: The Rail Systems Division of Siemens, which is located in Florin, recently won a major contract with the Department of Transportation to build dozens of new high-performance locomotives. I was proud to help advocate for this project with the Transportation Department, which is a huge win for Sacramento County. • Helped Jobless Residents and Small Businesses: Earlier this year, my office hosted two job fairs in conjunction with Assemblyman Ken Cooley that assisted several hundred local residents who were looking for work. We’ve also held several workshops for local small businesses to connect them with resources they can use to grow and hire. • Secured Small Business Aid Funding: I advocated for new federal funds that will help Sacramento County small businesses pursue federal government contracts. The federal government procures numerous contracts with private businesses every year for a wide range of goods and services – everything from food, to printer ink, to jet engines. This is a great example of how we can work together to make government work for small businesses. • Brought the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to Sacramento County: Earlier this year, I was pleased to welcome Maria Contreras-Sweet, the Administrator of the Small Business Administration, to Sacramento County. It was a good opportunity to make sure that local small businesses in our area get the resources and services they need. • Voted to Keep Taxes low: Earlier this month, I voted for the bipartisan Tax Increase Prevention Act so families & businesses can rely on tax relief next year. This bill is now law, and will help grow our economy by supporting research and development, clean energy, homeowners, and more. • Strengthened the U.S. – India Trade Relationship: The U.S. – India trade relationship is critical for growing the American economy here at home. That’s why I've worked to strengthen our relationship and helped facilitate an agreement between the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the U.C. Davis Postharvest Technology Center to collaborate on post-harvest technology to reduce food losses due to spoilage. Making Government Work for You  One of my most important jobs is making government work for you, and I've worked hard to do that these past two years. My local office helps Sacramento County families cut through red tape and fix problems they’re having with the federal government - including backlogged veteran’s benefits, Social Security and Medicare issues, stalled passports, and more. If you think you may need help, please call my office at (916) 635 0505 or visit bera.house.gov/gethelp. • Helped Sacramento County families: I’m proud to report that since January 2013, my office has helped local families recover $ 1,440,163 owed to them by the federal government. We've also helped 2,917 individuals. • Help for Veterans: We hired a Wounded Warrior Iraq War vet to assist local veterans, and together we’ve helped area vets recover more than $1 million in backlogged benefits and services. For instance, we helped Corey a veteran who served our country in the army for 22 years. But because of a paperwork error, he wasn't receiving the benefits he had earned. Click to play the below video to see how we helped him.   • Help for Seniors: My office helps local seniors with problems that they may be having with the federal government – including resolving issues with Social Security, Medicare, and other federal services and benefits they may be owed. Since 2013 my office has helped local residents recover nearly $150,000 in Social Security and Medicare benefits. For instance, we helped Shelly from Elk Grove, who needed assistance getting her mom the Social Security benefits she was owed. Play the video to see how my office was able to help.   • Making Government Work for Sacramento County: Since 2013, my staff and I have hosted or attended 1,066 events in Sacramento County. These events include dozens of workshops and dedicated office hours we've held with seniors, veterans, business owners, local officials, non-profit organizations, and others to connect our area with resources and assistance.  • Listening to you: Since 2013, my office has answered 79,890 of your letters, phone calls, and emails. I regularly use social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter to provide daily updates on my work, as well as my email updates. In addition, my staff and I have held more than a dozen town halls and hundreds of constituent meetings so I can hear from you directly.  As always, it is an incredible honor to serve you in Congress. Please never hesitate to call or write at any time. My door is always open. Be well,   Ami Bera, M.D.  Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bera.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/bera-volunteers-at-christmas-in-cordova-holiday-toy-drive-for-local,"Bera volunteers at Christmas in Cordova holiday toy drive for local children, families",2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Ami Bera,B001287,bera.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Ami Bera, M.D. and his local staff joined hundreds of volunteers on Saturday, December 20th for the annual Christmas in Cordova event. The Folsom Cordova Community Partnership has been organizing this holiday toy drive for years to help support hundreds of local families and children in need. “It was heartwarming to see how many volunteers came out and donated to help make this year's Christmas in Cordova such an incredible success,” said Bera. ""This event is a shining example of our community coming together and I hope it continues to grow in the years to come. My staff and I had a great time getting to know the dedicated volunteers and helping the families who attended."" The partnership works with other local non-profits and churches throughout the year to collect food donations, monetary donations, and toys and gifts for children. The event serves families in the community who live paycheck to paycheck and struggle to make ends meet. “The families we serve often are faced with desperate decisions, such as buying food for their children, paying monthly rent and dealing with day-to-day challenges which often increase during the pressures of the holiday season,” said Robert Sanger, Executive Director of the Folsom Cordova Community Partnership. “This year, we were able to help bring cheer to more than 800 families, with more than 4,500 presents donated thanks to all of the support from our partners, the community, and our volunteers."" The event featured three different play-care children sections for various age groups so that kids could play while parents went to the ‘toy shop’ to pick out Christmas presents. The gymnasium of Mills Middle School was converted into a toy shop and gift wrap area filled with volunteers ready to wrap and decorate the presents. Parents could select up to three gifts for each child and had the option of getting them giftwrapped before taking them home. In addition to the play-care areas and toy shop, families were treated to a hot lunch and received a basket of food to take home from the Salvation Army. More than 200 volunteers of all ages and experience helped out, many returning volunteers who help at this event every year.Volunteer duties ranged with helping to set up the toy store, greeting families as they arrived, helping parents pick out gifts for their children, wrapping presents, re-stocking and organizing toys, and watching children in play-care areas while parents shopped. Twin sisters and recent graduates of Cordova High School Monique and Monae Newton were among those volunteering. They participated with their friends from the Police Activities League and have taken part in Christmas in Cordova for the last four or five years. ""We like volunteering here because it’s just a certain feeling you get of being part of the community and it’s nice knowing that you’re helping someone out,” said Monae. “You can really see the joy when they grab a gift and you get to wrap it for them and really see how it makes their day. It is just that feeling that we enjoy being a part of,” said Monique. Folsom High School junior and another Police Activities League member, Arya Sharma was also a volunteer at the event. “I was impressed that people who can’t afford presents can get them for their kids and that we are able to help them with something they otherwise couldn’t do. If I help other people and make them happy it makes me happy too I said why not just try and come help today,"" said Sharma. If you are interested in donating or volunteering next year, please contact the Folsom Cordova Community Partnership online at https://www.thefccp.org/ or by phone (916) 361-8684 or email at Info@theFCCP.org. Congressman Ami Bera, M.D. represents Sacramento County. Born and raised in California, Bera is a physician and the only Indian American currently serving in Congress. He’s fighting to rebuild an economy that works for middle class families and to reduce our country’s debt in a responsible way. One of Bera’s first acts in Congress was to help lead the effort to pass the No Budget No Pay Act, which says if members of Congress don’t pass a budget, they don’t get paid. As a leader of the No Labels' Problem Solvers, he’s working with people from both parties to find bipartisan solutions to our nation’s challenges. He and his wife Janine live in Elk Grove with their daughter Sydra. For more updates on Rep. Bera follow @RepBera on Twitter, like Congressman Bera on Facebook, or visit https://www.bera.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cardenas.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/c-rdenas-statement-on-iran-negotiations,CRDENAS STATEMENT ON IRAN NEGOTIATIONS,2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Tony Cárdenas,C001097,cardenas.house.gov,,,legacy,"CÁRDENAS STATEMENT ON IRAN NEGOTIATIONS I am disappointed that the negotiations have not produced an agreement to end Iran’s nuclear program in the year since the adoption of the Joint Plan of Action in Geneva in 2013. However, I remain hopeful a diplomatic solution will ultimately be achieved with the announced extension and commitment to continue negotiating until the new deadline, June 30, 2015. Iran must recognize that negotiations cannot continue indefinitely. Congress and the American people cannot accept a deal that does not prevent an Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. There must be independent verifiable evidence that Iran is living up to its end of the bargain in any agreement that is reached. We must also push for a strong agreement to ensure the security and integrity of our allies and partners in the region. An Iranian nuclear weapon threatens a delicate balance in the Middle East and could spark a dangerous arms race. I will continue to monitor the ongoing discussions and work with my colleagues in the 114th Congress on legislation to build new sanctions to encourage a timely settlement.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://juliabrownley.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/brownley-statement-for-the-holidays,BROWNLEY STATEMENT FOR THE HOLIDAYS,2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Julia Brownley,B001285,juliabrownley.house.gov,,,legacy,"THOUSAND OAKS, CALIF. – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) issued the following statement for the holidays:  “As we gather with our families and friends to celebrate the holidays, let us thank the brave men and women in uniform for their valor and service. Our servicemembers are crucial to our community and are part of what makes Ventura County such a great place to live and work. “As the representative of the over 19,000 personnel who serve our country at Naval Base Ventura County – and a proud member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee – I want to take a moment to thank everyone who is serving in the armed forces for their selfless dedication to our country. They deserve our sincere gratitude for defending our country and our freedoms. Without their brave efforts, America would not have the liberties so many of us enjoy and often take for granted. Through their example, we remember that our nation is strongest when we work together to achieve common goals. And it is our solemn obligation to make sure that each servicemember and veteran receives all of the services and care they need when they return home. “So, from my family to yours, Happy Holidays and have a safe and healthy New Year.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://mikethompson.house.gov//newsroom/press-releases/thompson-statement-on-irrigation-restriction-ruling-by-federal-appeals-court,THOMPSON STATEMENT ON IRRIGATION RESTRICTION RULING BY FEDERAL APPEALS COURT,2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Mike Thompson,T000460,mikethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-5) released the following statement after the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned a lower court’s 2011 ruling that said irrigation restrictions in California’s Central Valley lacked sufficient scientific justification. In overturning the lower court’s ruling, the circuit court upheld irrigation restrictions in the Central Valley that were created in 2009 after the National Marine Fisheries Service released a “biological opinion” which found that Central Valley irrigation projects endangered steelhead and chinook salmon.  “The 9th Circuit’s ruling in this case affirms that while Delta water is important for farmers in the Central Valley, it’s also important for fish, wildlife and those who depend on the Delta for their drinking water and livelihoods. The Delta supports thousands of jobs in farming, fishing and tourism, and has an economic output of more than $4 billion a year. Neither the court, nor anyone else, should be in the business of picking winners and losers when it comes to our limited water supply. Instead, all decisions should be guided by the best available science – and the 9th Circuit let the best available science guide its decision making. I commend the ruling and look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress, state leaders, and all stakeholders to find fair, science-based solutions to our water challenges.”   Congressman Mike Thompson is proud to represent California’s 5th Congressional District, which includes all or part of Contra Costa, Lake, Napa, Solano and Sonoma Counties.  He is a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Rep. Thompson is also a member of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition and chairs the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Wine Caucus.   # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://nunes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398272,What I saw in the Middle East,2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Devin Nunes,N000181,nunes.house.gov,,,legacy,"I recently returned from a trip to the Middle East that included visits to the Iraqi cities of Baghdad and Erbil. There was some good news out of Iraq recently, as Kurdish fighters – helped by U.S. airstrikes – pushed back ISIS forces around the town of Sinjar. This advance broke ISIS’s siege of Mount Sinjar, where thousands of civilians had fled after ISIS launched a calculated campaign of mass murder. Despite this progress, ISIS’s recent publication of a manual approving the beating and trading of Christian and Jewish sex slaves, alongside harrowing reports of the widespread murder and forced conversion of Christians – including the killing of children – should remind us of the terrible fate that will befall millions if these depraved zealots are not defeated. Not many Americans would want to live amid this dangerous war. Yet in Iraq, I met U.S. servicemen and women who are risking their lives to assist the battle against ISIS. I am in awe of their selfless courage. These Americans are spending Christmas there – in a warzone far from friends and family – so that we can celebrate Christmas in safety here. So I’d like to offer my gratitude and appreciation to military veterans as well as active duty, reserve, and national guard servicemembers, especially those now on deployment, and wish my friends and constituents a Merry Christmas.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=bf28640c-b200-4c5f-a991-a0a5ebfded67,"Feinstein, Grassley Release Recommendations for Combatting Afghan Drug Trade",2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington—U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), co-chairs of the Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control, today released a bipartisan report, “Future U.S. Counternarcotics Efforts in Afghanistan,” which provides recommendations for Congress and the administration to counter illicit activities and corruption surrounding the Afghan drug trade. The report’s recommendations have also been endorsed by Senators Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), James Risch (R-Idaho) and John Cornyn (R-Texas). “The Afghan drug trade funds the Taliban, fuels corruption and creates major public health challenges,” said Senator Feinstein. “Afghanistan could become a narco-state without an effective, comprehensive and coordinated counternarcotics strategy, coupled with unprecedented levels of international cooperation. If we don’t act, Afghanistan’s drug trade could undermine hard won gains and U.S. investments and threaten the safety of the citizens of Afghanistan and neighboring countries.” “Opium production in Afghanistan has rapidly increased as the U.S. military presence has been reduced,” said Senator Grassley. “Our report outlines the critical need for the Obama administration to put plans in place now to support continuing counternarcotics efforts without the current level of security provided by the United States. The administration should provide Congress with a comprehensive, multi-agency, workable strategy before any more gains made over the past 13 years are lost.” The report recommends that the United States: Work with the Afghan government to account for the inherent challenges that have previously stymied U.S. efforts to produce and implement a long-term, interagency counternarcotics strategy and develop goals and metrics to measure progress. Encourage additional countries to support counternarcotics programs in Afghanistan and provide resources to help better interdict narcotics leaving Afghanistan. Strengthen the rule of law in Afghanistan by developing an interagency anti-corruption strategy; providing training and support Afghan counternarcotics units vetted by the Drug Enforcement Agency; and expand the vetting process to include select members of the judicial sector. Ensure scarce resources are prioritized to support effective interdiction efforts over eradication and fund alternative livelihood programs that focus more intensely on non-farm income. Continue funding intelligence missions to disrupt drug-related criminal and insurgent activities, such the Afghan Threat Finance Cell. Continue implementing strategies and programs to prevent, reduce, and treat drug use in Afghanistan. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://juliabrownley.house.gov/brownley-statement-for-the-holidays/,Brownley Statement for the Holidays,2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Julia Brownley,B001285,juliabrownley.house.gov,juliabrownley,https://juliabrownley.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Thousand Oaks, CA – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) issued the following statement for the holidays: “As we gather with our families and friends to celebrate the holidays, let us thank the brave men and women in uniform for their valor and service. Our servicemembers are crucial to our community and are part of what makes Ventura County such a great place to live and work. “As the representative of the over 19,000 personnel who serve our country at Naval Base Ventura County – and a proud member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee – I want to take a moment to thank everyone who is serving in the armed forces for their selfless dedication to our country. They deserve our sincere gratitude for defending our country and our freedoms. Without their brave efforts, America would not have the liberties so many of us enjoy and often take for granted. Through their example, we remember that our nation is strongest when we work together to achieve common goals. And it is our solemn obligation to make sure that each servicemember and veteran receives all of the services and care they need when they return home. “So, from my family to yours, Happy Holidays and have a safe and healthy New Year.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-lee-applauds-step-in-the-right-direction-but-remains-disappointed-by-msm-blood-donation-ban,Congresswoman Lee Applauds Step in the Right Direction but Remains Disappointed by MSM Blood Donation Ban,2014-12-23,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Barbara Lee,L000551,lee.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.23.14 Congresswoman Lee Applauds Step in the Right Direction but Remains Disappointed by MSM Blood Donation Ban Oakland, CA Congresswoman Lee released this statement on news that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will recommend ending the lifetime blood donor deferral for MSM in favor of a one year deferral from last sexual contact: I am pleased to see the FDA take a step in the right direction by re-examining the outdated and discriminatory policy regarding blood donations from the MSM community. Yet, I remain disappointed that their recommendation continues blood donation deferrals without scientific justification. Blood and blood products are critical to the treatment of many medical conditions and blood supplies are chronically low. Our policies towards blood donation should be based on science, not fear. Deferral policy should only be based on actual risk factors. I have called and will continue to call for a blood donation policy based on science, data and technical capacity. ### Congresswoman Lee is a Vice Chair of the Equality Caucus, a member of the Appropriations and Budget Committees, the Steering and Policy Committee, and is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and former co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip's Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity. Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cook.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rep-paul-cooks-bill-to-rename-29-palms-post-office-for-col-mac-dube,Rep. Paul Cook's Bill to Rename 29 Palms Post Office For Col. Mac Dube Signed by President,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Paul Cook,C001094,cook.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Paul Cook (R-Apple Valley) today issued the following statement after the President signed HR 5331, renaming the post office in Twentynine Palms, located at 73839 Gorgonio Drive, as the “Colonel M.J. ‘Mac’ Dube, USMC Post Office Building: “I am pleased to honor Mac’s legacy by renaming the post office in his honor. Mac served his nation honorably and left a legacy for all those who come after him. He’ll always be remembered in Twentynine Palms for his hard work, dedication, and patriotism.” A member of the House Armed Services, Veterans' Affairs, and Foreign Affairs Committees, Cook served as an infantry officer and retired as a Colonel after 26 years in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was awarded the Bronze Star medal with valor device and two Purple Hearts for actions in combat.  For a copy of the press release when HR 5331 passed the House of Representatives, please click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://mikethompson.house.gov//newsroom/press-releases/thompson-and-brady-s-bipartisan-small-business-efficiency-act-signed-into,THOMPSON AND BRADYS BIPARTISAN SMALL BUSINESS EFFICIENCY ACT SIGNED INTO LAW,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Mike Thompson,T000460,mikethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Reps. Mike Thompson (D-CA) and Kevin Brady’s (R-TX) bipartisan Small Business Efficiency Act (H.R. 3581) was signed into law on Friday by President Barack Obama. The legislation helps reduce burdens faced by small businesses and ensures better compliance with complex federal employment tax responsibilities. Specifically, the Small Business Efficiency Act provides clear rules for Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) that are voluntarily certified by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to collect and pay federal employment taxes for their small business clients. The legislation will provide certainty for small businesses that use certified PEO services and allow employers to focus on their business operations, not government paperwork. “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and they shouldn’t be held back because of Washington regulations and piles of government paperwork,” said Thompson. “This law will remove bureaucratic burdens so that small businesses can focus on what they do best – growing their business, producing quality products and creating good-paying jobs.” PEOs provide human resources services to small business clients. One of the most important tasks that PEOs perform for small businesses is the collection and payment of employment taxes, reducing the amount of burdensome paperwork for small businesses.  Before the bill was enacted, there was ambiguity about a certified PEO’s (CPEO) ability to assume employment tax responsibility. The Small Business Efficiency Act eliminates this ambiguity by implementing safeguards for the CPEO’s small business clients. To become a certified PEO (CPEO) Thompson and Brady’s legislation requires a PEO to meet certain basic financial conditions, satisfy reporting obligations, and maintain ongoing certification with the IRS.  After meeting certification requirements, the CPEO would assume full and sole responsibility and liability for employment taxes due as long as they are certified. The Small Business Efficiency Act creates a voluntary IRS certification process to help PEOs become certified so they can take on small business clients and accept liability for filing payroll taxes for their clients’ employees. Not only will small businesses benefit from the legislation, the federal government directly benefits as well. The IRS has stated that CPEOs would improve compliance with employment tax requirements, reduce the number of returns the IRS has to process, and reduce errors in calculating and paying employment taxes.  Presidents Bush and Obama have included very similar proposals in their budget submissions.   Congressman Mike Thompson is proud to represent California’s 5th Congressional District, which includes all or part of Contra Costa, Lake, Napa, Solano and Sonoma Counties.  He is a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Rep. Thompson is also a member of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition and chairs the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Wine Caucus.   # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pelosi.house.gov//news/pelosi-updates/a-new-beginning,A New Beginning,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Nancy Pelosi,P000197,pelosi.house.gov,,,legacy,"A New Beginning After more than 50 years, it is clear that the policy of isolating Cuba is serving neither the interests of the American people nor the democratic aspirations of the Cubans. We must acknowledge our policy towards Cuba is a relic of a bygone era that weakens our leadership in the Americas and has not advanced freedom and prosperity in Cuba.  President Obama’s decision to normalize US-Cuban relations has achieved a historic diplomatic breakthrough that renews our leadership in the Western Hemisphere. I commend the President and Secretary of State John Kerry for their vision and leadership in this initiative, and in securing the release of American prisoner Alan Gross and the US intelligence agent who has languished in Cuban prison for two decades. The initiatives announced by President Obama this week, including those in the field of agriculture, build on the bipartisan work of many in the Congress over the years. We also recognize the role of the abiding moral leadership of Pope Francis in helping our nations reach this new beginning.  However, we must also acknowledge that democratic activists and political prisoners have suffered for decades under the brutal reign of this oppressive regime, and the pain they and their families continue to face will not cease today. With clear eyes, we will continue to call on the Cuban regime to yield to the political, social, and economic dreams of the Cuban people.    To follow Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi on Instagram, please click here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sherman-letter-to-sony-pictures-entertainment,Congressman Sherman Letter to Sony Pictures Entertainment,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Brad Sherman,S000344,sherman.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 22, 2014 Mr. Michael Lynton CEO Sony Pictures Entertainment 10202 West Washington Boulevard Culver City, CA 90232 Re: Invitation to screen The Interview at the U.S. Capitol Dear Mr. Lynton I am extending an offer to screen The Interview in the U.S. Capitol facilities. As Chairman of the Entertainment Industries Caucus, I believe we should stand in solidarity with Sony Pictures and the American film industry. Threats from a dictator in North Korea should not stop Americans from seeing any movie. We have a responsibility to stand up against these attempts at intimidation. This is also about educating Members of Congress. Everyone is talking about The Interview. I think it's important for Congress to know, and see, what we are talking about. Screening The Interview will demonstrate the U.S. Congress's support of the freedom of speech. This is about our right to live without fear, and knowing that our values will not be compromised by the idle threats of a despotic regime. Good or bad, Americans should not be deprived of the opportunity to see this movie. It is now the responsibility of the U.S. government to allocate the necessary resources to ensure moviegoers' safety. We must help Sony Pictures, movie theater owners, and moviegoers regain the confidence to go see The Interview. If you have any questions please contact Lauren Wolman at lauren.wolman@mail.house.gov or (202) 225-5911. Sincerely, Brad Sherman Member of Congress CC: The Honorable Chris Dodd Chairman MPAA Mr. Keith Weaver Worldwide Government Affairs Sony Pictures Entertainment",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sherman-double-voice-of-america-broadcasting-into-north-korea,Sherman: Double Voice of America Broadcasting into North Korea,2014-12-22,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Brad Sherman,S000344,sherman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DC - Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA), the second Ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee issued the following statement: Kim Jong-un has used vandalism and threats of violence to suppress speech in the United States. The North Korean government has prevented millions of Americans from seeing a particular movie, at least during December. Importantly, these threats are now causing movie and television producers to delay or abandon sensitive projects. It is time to give North Korea a double dose of free speech. Currently Radio Free Asia and Voice of America reach North Koreans eleven hours each night, at a cost to American taxpayers of $8 million annually (or roughly one tenth of what it cost Sony to make and advertise The Interview). We should ramp this up to $16 million. Dictators like Kim Jong-un fear nothing as much as the truth and it is time to bring a maximum supply of truth both to the North Korean people, and to the elites which form the core of the regime's support. We also maintain websites aimed at North Korea, but we do not provide television broadcasts. Our web efforts should be aimed at undermining Kim Jong-un among these elites, who have internet access. The BBG Report on North Korea (issued December 8, 2014) shows that our current eleven hour per day stream of broadcasting to North Koreans falls a bit short of our own 12 hour per day goal. Though nighttime hours are more effective than daylight hours, we should be broadcasting 24 hours a day into North Korea. (The BBG, Broadcasting Board of Governors, is the US government agency which oversees the Voice of America and Radio Free Asia.) The Report also indicates that for medium wave (AM) we are dependent on leased transmission sites (usually leased from South Korean radio broadcasters). The Broadcasting Board of Governors is seeking to construct its own medium wave transmitter in South Korea at a location optimally suited to reach the North Korean people. This effort should be funded and expedited. We should explore using satellite television broadcasting. If television broadcasting into North Korea is practical, then later next year we should broadcast The Interview dubbed in Korean. _____________________________________________________ Congressman Sherman also chairs the Entertainment Industry Caucus in the House of Representatives. He has also called for re-listing North Korea as a State Sponsor of Terrorism and he has asked Sony to provide a copy of The Interview for screening in the Capitol to Members of Congress. See Letter Here. Attached is the Report of the Broadcasting Board of Governors (which oversees both Voice of America and Radio Free Asia) issued December 8, 2014, pursuant to the North Korean Human Rights Reauthorization Act. Final Fact: Freedom House ranked North Korea dead last (out of 197 countries surveyed) for 11 years in a row in its annual Freedom of the Press Report.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://lamalfa.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/nominees-announced-for-service-academies,Nominees announced for service academies,2014-12-20,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Doug LaMalfa,L000578,lamalfa.house.gov,,,legacy,"Red Bluff Daily News Posted: 12/20/14, 7:22 AM PST Washington, DC >> Representative Doug LaMalfa Friday announced the names of the nine North State residents who will receive a nomination for admission to one of the United States service academies for the class of 2019. Among the nominees are Tyler Younkers of Red Bluff to the U.S. Air Force Academy and Kody Rulofson of Cottonwood to the U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. “It is an absolute honor and privilege to nominate these nine exceptional individuals from the North State to the U.S. Service Academies,” said LaMalfa. “Each of these applicants has excelled in their performance in the classroom and commitment to our country and communities. I am confident they will continue to make us proud and I offer my sincere gratitude for their willingness to serve our great nation.” The nominees were recommended by a committee of North State community leaders and veterans of all service branches. The committee recommended a slate of nominees after interviewing and carefully considering the files of North State students who applied for the nomination. Having been nominated, the students must now compete with other nominees for an appointment to the academies. Academy officials will begin announcing appointments this month. California First Congressional District Service Academy nominations include Riley Davis of Redding, Air Force; Austin Dowse of Grenada, Air Force; Trent Foster of Nevada City, Naval; Nicholas Katz of Chico, Military, Andrew Klassen of Chico, Naval; Kevin Williams of Yreka, Military Academy and Wyatt Wyckoff of Magalia, Military. Any student with a strong desire to serve the nation as an officer in the United States Armed Forces is invited to contact LaMalfa in the spring of their junior year. Visit www.lamalfa.house.gov for nomination application and instructions. You may also call the Oroville District office and speak with the U.S. Service Academy Advisor at (530) 534-7100.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bera.house.gov//media-center/amis-updates/email-update-working-for-you,Email update: Working for you,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Ami Bera,B001287,bera.house.gov,,,legacy,"I sent an email update on Friday on how I've been working for you over the past few weeks. Join my email updates now so you don't miss any in the future! It's been a busy few weeks, so here's a quick update on how I'm working for you. Important note: My Washington office has moved to 1535 Longworth House Office Building. We're just one floor above where we used to be. Please feel free to call us at (202) 225 5716 to share your views or even get help with tours of the Washington area. Fighting the U.C. Tuition Hike As you may know, the University of California regents recently voted to raise tuition for U.C. students. If their plan goes forward, students could see a 28 percent tuition increase over 5 years. I'm extremely disappointed by this vote. It breaks the promise of an affordable education for many students. As a co-chair of the bipartisan California Public Higher Education Caucus, I helped lead the opposition to this tuition hike. Several of my California congressional colleagues joined me to urge the U.C. regents to stop the hike so students aren't priced out of the American dream. Several state lawmakers have since proposed plans to avoid the hikes, but none have yet been adopted. We need to bring down the skyrocketing cost of education so that same dream is available to this and future generations. >> Please click here to read our letter urging a rejection of tuition hikes. Fairness for Pregnant Working Women Earlier this month, the Supreme Court heard arguments on a major pregnancy discrimination case. This case may decide if women can expect reasonable accommodations at the workplace so they can keep providing for their families while they're pregnant. As a husband and a father of a daughter, I believe a woman shouldn't have to choose between her job and the health of her pregnancy. That's why I joined with dozens of my congressional colleagues to send a legal brief to the Supreme Court. We're urging the Court to rule in favor of pregnant working women. I’m also supporting the Pregnant Women’s Fairness Act in Congress to end unfair discrimination. >> Please click here to see more about how I'm fighting for women and families in Congress. Voting for Tax Relief for Families and Businesses Earlier this month, I voted for the bipartisan Tax Increase Prevention Act so families & businesses can rely on tax relief next year. This will help grow our economy by supporting research and development, clean energy, homeowners, and more. I'm pleased to report to you that the Senate also passed this bill this week. The President will soon sign this bill and make it the law of the land. During a visit to one of our local small businesses, Brothers Boats in Folsom. I discussed how my bipartisan bill, the Small Business and Family Relief Act, would help roll back a new health insurance tax that makes it harder for small businesses to grow. While this is an important step, the hard work of reforming our tax code and providing certainty to our economy isn't over. I will keep working with Republicans and Democrats so we can pass a more permanent solution that works for our economy and middle class families. >> Please click here to read more about this legislation. Reuniting with one of our local heroes As a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, I had the honor of making an official congressional visit to Afghanistan in 2013. This trip was an important opportunity to meet with U.S. & Afghan officials, to review our mission, and to check on the wellbeing of our brave troops. During my visit, I had the honor of meeting Morgan Alcalay from Carmichael. It was great to see him again safe and sound on U.S. soil at my Washington office earlier this month. It was a privilege to welcome Morgan home and to thank him for his service to our country. Our service members and veterans deserve nothing less than our unwavering support. That's why my office is here to help local service members and veterans who are having trouble with the federal government. We've now helped area vets recover more than $1 million in backlogged benefits and services, and we'd be honored to serve you too. Please call us at (916) 635 0505 or visit bera.house.gov/helpforvets for more information. As always, I'm humbled to serve you in Congress. Please feel free to call or write at any time. Be well, Ami Bera, M.D. Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cook.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/president-signs-rep-cook-s-mammoth-mountain-land-exchange-provision,President Signs Rep. Cooks Mammoth Mountain Land Exchange Provision,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Paul Cook,C001094,cook.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Today, President Obama signed into law Rep. Paul Cook’s Mammoth Mountain Land Exchange. The original bill, HR 1241, passed the House of Representatives by voice vote in December, 2013. The measure was ultimately put into the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was signed into law today. The Land Exchange allows the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area to obtain the 21 acres surrounding the Mammoth Mountain Inn. This land is currently leased from the National Forest Service. In exchange, the National Forest Service would receive from the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area over 1,500 acres of valuable wilderness along with a monetary offset. Rep. Cook stated, “This is about jobs. The land exchange will allow Mammoth Mountain to start construction, creating jobs to rebuild the Mammoth Mountain Inn. The new construction on the Inn will help facilitate not only new construction jobs during renovation, but will allow the ski area to expand, creating more permanent jobs.” A member of the House Veterans’ Affairs, Armed Services, and Foreign Affairs Committees, Cook served as an infantry officer and retired after 26 years as a Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps. During his time in combat, he was awarded the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts. ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://garamendi.house.gov/press-release/interior-secretary-jewell-congressmen-garamendi-thompson-host-public-meeting-berryessa,"Interior Secretary Jewell, Congressmen Garamendi & Thompson Host Public Meeting on Berryessa Snow Mountain Region",2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,John Garamendi,G000559,garamendi.house.gov,,,legacy,"Following Tour of Region, Heard from Community on Proposals to Conserve Public Lands in Lake, Yolo, Solano, Napa, & Mendocino Counties NAPA, CA – U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell today visited the Berryessa-Snow Mountain Region of California where she joined Congressmen John Garamendi (D-CA-03) and Mike Thompson (D-CA-02) for a public meeting to hear from the community about its vision for the management of public lands in Lake, Yolo, Solano, Napa, and Mendocino counties. ""The Berryessa Snow Mountain Region is a natural treasure at the heart of the 3rd District. This region’s rugged beauty helps sustain outdoor recreation businesses, serves as a valuable source of water, and provides critical habitats for our wildlife,"" Congressman Garamendi said. ""It was vitally important to hear from our friends and neighbors in the community on how we can best preserve Berryessa Snow Mountain now and into the future. I look forward to translating these ideas into sound public policy."" ""This is an incredibly beautiful area with great opportunities for outdoor recreation, so it’s no surprise that the community wants to make sure that it is protected and passed on to the next generation,"" said Secretary Jewell. ""I’m grateful for today’s opportunity to get out and see the public lands and to hear directly from the local community about their vision for conservation and land management.  I want to underscore our support of Congressman Thompson’s efforts to recognize this region as a National Conservation Area, which could also lead to additional economic benefits to the region."" ""Protecting the Berryessa Snow Mountain region will help boost tourism, grow the local economy, improve recreation opportunities and protect important species found nowhere else on earth,"" said Congressman Thompson. ""That is why I’ve proposed legislation that would permanently safeguard this important region. However, Congress has refused to consider this bill. If Congress won’t act, then I look forward to continuing to work with Secretary Jewell, Undersecretary Bonnie and the Obama Administration on plans to permanently protect the Berryessa Snow Mountain region as a national monument."" Congressmen Garamendi is the leading cosponsor of Congressman Thompson’s  H.R. 1025, the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Conservation Area Act, legislation that would establish the Berryessa-Snow Mountain National Conservation Area. They were also joined by USDA Undersecretary for Environment and Natural Resources Robert Bonnie and Chief of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Tom Tidewell. H.R. 1025 would conserve and enhance scenic, recreational and culturally significant lands and waters that are managed by Interior’s Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of Reclamation, as well as lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service, under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The legislation includes protections for 350,000 acres of land including three federally-recognized wilderness areas, Lake Berryessa, Berryessa Peak and other key areas. As part of their visit, Congressmen Thompson took Jewell, USDA officials, and other state and local community members to portions of the proposed national conservation area within BLM’s Cache Creek Wilderness. The 27,245-acre wilderness contains spectacular scenery, including steep canyons, scenic rivers, rolling oak woodlands and elaborate springtime wildflower displays. The Berryessa Snow Mountain region provides significant recreation opportunities for people in the 3rd District and nearby San Francisco and Sacramento metropolitan areas, as well as visitors from around the world. The area contains opportunities for hiking, camping, boating, fishing, mountain biking, off-highway vehicle use and other types of recreation. The area is known as a botanical ‘hotspot’ for its rich diversity of plant species like the Sargent's cypress and serpentine willow and provides habitat for dozens of iconic California birds and animals including bald and golden eagles, black bears, mountain lions and herds of wild tule elk. The landscape rises from near sea level in the south to over 7,000 feet in the north, supporting such diverse ecosystems as the blue oak woodlands near Putah Creek in the south and the sub-alpine habitat within the Snow Mountain Wilderness.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://garamendi.house.gov/press-release/president-signs-coast-guard-maritime-transportation-bill-law-ranking-member-garamendi,President Signs Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation Bill Into Law that Ranking Member Garamendi Helped Author,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,John Garamendi,G000559,garamendi.house.gov,,,legacy,"Bipartisan Law Strengthens Economy and National Security and Includes Garamendi’s Growing American Shipping Act FAIRFIELD, CA – Today, President Barack Obama signed into law S. 2444, the Howard Coble Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2014. Earlier this month, this bipartisan legislation passed both Chambers of Congress by unanimous consent. ""Now that the Howard Coble Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act is the law of the land, we are reminded that even in this deeply divided Congress, good and important legislation can sometimes make it to the finish line,"" Ranking Member Garamendi said. ""I thank President Obama for signing this legislation. I also thank my colleague on the subcommittee, Chairman Duncan Hunter, as well as Chairman Bill Shuster, Ranking Member Nick Rahall, Senator Jay Rockefeller, and Senator John Thune, for working closely with me in an inclusive and bipartisan way. We didn’t craft a perfect law, but it’s a strong compromise that will strengthen our economy and improve our national security."" The law reauthorizes funding for the United States Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, and the Federal Maritime Commission. It also provides policy direction and certainty for these entities and the entire maritime sector. As Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA-03) worked closely with Chairman Duncan Hunter (R-CA-5) to write the bill; negotiated a bipartisan, bicameral compromise; and built support for passage through both chambers of Congress and with the Administration. ""With this law, we are modernizing the Coast Guard and strengthening businesses that depend on maritime transport – which is almost every business. We’re also strengthening American shipbuilding, the backbone of our maritime sector,"" Congressman Garamendi added. The law also incorporates legislation that Congressman Garamendi introduced, H.R. 5270, the Growing American Shipping Act, which requires that the Department of Transportation develop policies that enhance the national security and port safety of the United States by encouraging to the maximum extent practicable the transport of liquefied natural gas on U.S.-built and -flag vessels when it is decided to export. This law aims to maintain the technological ability of the United States shipbuilding industry to build and repair vessels for the Navy and the Coast Guard by maintaining the critical industrial infrastructure and skilled human workforce necessary to build such vessels. Further, this law promotes American job creation by encouraging domestic shipbuilding and the use of U.S. mariners when the transport of American LNG occurs. ""When we export LNG, it should be on ships built in America with American crews,"" Garamendi continued. ""So long as we choose to export LNG, it should be creating good American jobs in the process, and the revitalization of America’s shipbuilding industry has spiraling impacts that go far beyond this commodity. I’m proud of the work we put into creating this law, and I thank everyone in Congress and the Administration who was supportive through this process."" The Howard Coble Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2014 (S. 2444) includes provisions that: Authorize the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve for fiscal year 2015; Support Coast Guard servicemembers and their families by providing new child care and family support programs; Require development of a comprehensive National Maritime Strategy; Reauthorize the small shipyard competitive grant program, which in 2011 awarded a $1.4 million grant to a facility in Alameda County; Provide new guidance to the Coast Guard as it continues to rebuild its offshore fleet of cutters, including the granting of multi-year procurement authority for the new Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) which will help expedite the construction of this new class of cutter once a final design is selected next year; Clarify existing authorities to promote the use of U.S. flag vessels in the export of LNG; Strengthen cooperation between the Coast Guard and State Maritime Academies, including California Maritime Academy in Vallejo, by codifying the Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee; Help replace and modernize aging Coast Guard assets in a cost-effective manner; Provide new directives that the Coast Guard needs to prepare for full-time operations and for the safety of maritime transportation in the Arctic, including authority to reactivate the heavy icebreaker Polar Sea; Provide explicit cooperative agreement authority to enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to develop beneficial partnerships with other maritime stakeholders, including private businesses, nonprofits, and foreign governments; Improve Coast Guard acquisition activities; Enhance Congressional oversight; and Create opportunities for veterans to transition to careers in the Merchant Marine. The legislation is named in honor of retiring Congressman and long-serving House Transportation Committee Member Howard Coble, the only current Member of Congress to have served in the Coast Guard and a strong supporter of the Service.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://huffman.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/huffman-calls-for-swift-renewal-of-the-secure-rural-schools-program,"Huffman Calls for Swift Renewal of the Secure Rural Schools Program, Essential to Rural North Coast Communities",2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Jared Huffman,H001068,huffman.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON­—Congressman Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) today called on Congressional leaders to reauthorize a program that provides key support to rural communities. Representatives Huffman, Derek Kilmer (D-WA), Chris Stewart (R-UT), and Doug LaMalfa (R-CA) led a bipartisan letter urging the swift renewal of Secure Rural Schools Act (SRS) funding to help counties with large amounts of federally-owned National Forest land. Since National Forest land cannot be taxed by counties or states, for more than 100 years the U.S. Forest Service has shared revenues from timber harvests on federal lands with the nearby communities. In the letter to House Speaker John Boehner and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi the members pointed out that SRS program provides vital funding to communities facing declining revenue from timber sales on federal lands. The program helps rural counties pay for infrastructure projects and supports local school districts. “Failing to renew the SRS program will cause significant harm to the ability of rural and timber communities to provide basic services to their residents,” the members wrote in the letter sent today. “We urge you to work quickly, in a bipartisan fashion, to reauthorize, fund and make payments under SRS as early as possible in the next Congress ensuring that local governments across the country can access these essential funds.” Across the nation SRS sends funds to more than 700 counties and 4,000 school districts. California is one of the top recipients of SRS funds, totaling more than $32.7 million in FY 2013, second only to Oregon. FY 2013 payments to counties in Huffman’s 2nd Congressional District totaled more than $5.7 million in SRS funds: Del Norte: $1,217,621 Trinity: $3,286,334 Humboldt $935,964 Mendocino: $307,490 Huffman’s letter was signed by 34 other members and is supported by the National Association of Counties, National Forest Counties and Schools Coalition, The School Superintendents Association, Association of Educational Service Agencies, National Rural Education Association, and the National Rural Education Advocacy Coalition. The full text of the letter follows and a PDF may be found HERE. Dear Speaker Boehner and Leader Pelosi, As the 113th Congress comes to an end, we write to express our concern that the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS) was not reauthorized for fiscal year 2014. More than 700 counties and school districts across the country receive funding through the SRS program. As you know, for more than 100 years, the Forest Service has shared 25 percent of timber revenues with rural counties to compensate them for federal ownership of lands, which cannot be taxed at the local level. Counties and school districts rely on these funds to help support critical services, including education and infrastructure projects. While timber harvest levels have dropped over the last two decades, Congress has recognized the need to live up to its obligations and continue to support these districts. Unfortunately, the authorization for SRS lapsed in September 2013 and the last payments were distributed in April 2014. Failing to renew the SRS program will cause significant harm to the ability of rural and timber communities to provide basic services to their residents. We urge you to work quickly, in a bipartisan fashion, to reauthorize, fund and make payments under SRS as early as possible in the next Congress ensuring that local governments across the country can access these essential funds. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://juliabrownley.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/brownley-welcomes-uclass-fleet-integration-team-to-point-mugu,BROWNLEY WELCOMES UCLASS FLEET INTEGRATION TEAM TO POINT MUGU,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Julia Brownley,B001285,juliabrownley.house.gov,,,legacy,"OXNARD, CALIF. – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) announced that the U.S. Navy will be establishing an Unmanned Carrier-Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS) Fleet Integration Team (FIT) at Point Mugu.  “I am proud to report that the UCLASS FIT will be based at Point Mugu, which is yet another example of Naval Base Ventura County’s increasing strategic importance for our nation’s 21st century defense posture,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “I look forward to welcoming the UCLASS FIT personnel and their families to our community.” According to the Department of the Navy, the UCLASS FIT will support the Navy’s persistent, aircraft carrier-based intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, targeting, and strike requirements. The new command will be in place effective October 1, 2015, and will include 8 officers and 12 enlisted personnel. Its mission will be to plan, integrate, and execute the lines of effort required to establish the Initial Operational Capability of the UCLASS system and transition the program to Full Operational Capability. It will determine squadron requirements for manpower, training, maintenance, logistics, carrier integration, optimized fleet response plan, information technology, interoperability, security, and budget. The UCLASS FIT will also coordinate with facilities personnel to determine infrastructure and base operating support requirements, as well as determine associated fleet integration and support requirements for inclusion into the proper programs of record. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://lamalfa.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rep-lamalfa-announces-nominees-to-the-united-states-service-academies,Rep. LaMalfa Announces Nominees to the United States Service Academies,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Doug LaMalfa,L000578,lamalfa.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DC- Representative Doug LaMalfa today announced the names of the nine North State residents who will receive a nomination for admission to one of the United States service academies for the class of 2019. “It is an absolute honor and privilege to nominate these nine exceptional individuals from the North State to the U.S. Service Academies,” said LaMalfa. “Each of these applicants has excelled in their performance in the classroom and commitment to our country and communities. I am confident they will continue to make us proud and I offer my sincere gratitude for their willingness to serve our great nation.”    Rep. LaMalfa’s nominees were recommended by a committee of North State community leaders and veterans of all service branches. The committee recommended a slate of nominees after interviewing and carefully considering the files of North State students who applied for the nomination. Having been nominated, the students must now compete with other nominees for an appointment to the academies. Academy officials will begin announcing appointments this month. California First Congressional District Service Academy Nominations: Riley Davis- Redding U.S. Air Force Academy Austin Dowse- Grenada U.S. Air Force Academy Trent Foster- Nevada City U.S. Naval Academ Nicholas Katz- Chico U.S. Military Academy Andrew Klassen- Chico U.S. Naval Academy Kody Rulofson- Cottonwood U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Kevin Williams- Yreka U.S. Military Academy Wyatt Wyckoff- Magalia U.S. Military Academy Tyler Younkers- Red Bluff U.S. Air Force Academy Any student with a strong desire to serve our nation as an officer in the United States Armed Forces is invited to contact Congressman LaMalfa in the spring of their junior year. Please visit his website www.lamalfa.house.gov for his nomination application and instructions. You may also call his Oroville District office and speak with his U.S. Service Academy Advisor at (530)534-7100.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://mikethompson.house.gov//newsroom/press-releases/thompson-hosts-interior-secretary-jewell-usda-under-secretary-bonnie-on,"THOMPSON HOSTS INTERIOR SECRETARY JEWELL, USDA UNDER SECRETARY BONNIE ON VISIT TO BERRYESSA SNOW MOUNTAIN REGION",2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Mike Thompson,T000460,mikethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"NAPA, CA – U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-5), joined by Congressman John Garamendi (CA-3), today hosted Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment Robert Bonnie on a visit to the Berryessa Snow Mountain Region. After a hiking tour of the region, Thompson held a public meeting to hear from constituents about Thompson’s conservation proposals for the Berryessa Snow Mountain region and what it means to the local communities. At the public meeting, a panel consisting of ranching, recreation, conservation, academic and elected leaders spoke in support of protecting the region. “Protecting the Berryessa Snow Mountain region will help boost tourism, grow the local economy, improve recreation opportunities and protect important species found nowhere else on earth,” said Thompson. “That is why I’ve proposed legislation that would permanently safeguard this important region. However, Congress has refused to consider this bill. If Congress won’t act, then I look forward to continuing to work with Secretary Jewell, Undersecretary Bonnie and the Obama Administration on plans to permanently protect the Berryessa Snow Mountain region as a national monument.” As part of their visit, Thompson took Jewell, USDA officials and other state and local community members to portions of the proposed national conservation area within BLM’s Cache Creek Wilderness. The 27,245-acre wilderness contains spectacular scenery, including steep canyons, scenic rivers, rolling oak woodlands and elaborate springtime wildflower displays. ""This is a beautiful area with cultural history and great opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing so it's no surprise that the community wants to make sure that it is protected and passed on to the next generation,"" said Jewell. ""Today's opportunity to get out and see the public lands and to hear directly from the local and tribal communities about their vision for conservation and land management is important. I want to underscore our support of Congressman Thompson's efforts to recognize this region as a National Conservation Area, which could also lead to additional economic benefits to the region."" “We are supportive of Congressman Thompson’s effort to solicit public comment on his proposal,” said Bonnie. “The Forest Service also met with tribal leaders to discuss the proposal earlier this month. There appears to be significant public support for this proposal and we look forward to working with all interested parties as this process continues.” “The Berryessa Snow Mountain Region is a natural treasure at the heart of the 3rd District. This region’s rugged beauty helps sustain outdoor recreation businesses, serves as a valuable source of water, and provides critical habitats for our wildlife,” Garamendi said. “It was vitally important to hear from our friends and neighbors in the community on how we can best preserve Berryessa Snow Mountain now and into the future. I look forward to translating these ideas into sound public policy.” Jewell, Bonnie and U.S. Forest Service Chief (USFS) Tom Tidewell visited California at the invitation of Thompson who, since 2012, has introduced legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives that would designate the 350,000 acre Berryessa Snow Mountain region as a National Conservation Area (NCA). Under an NCA designation, the region would be permanently protected, ensuring continued recreational opportunities while safeguarding the region's wildlife, rare plants, and waters – which include important sources of drinking water and irrigation for nearby communities. U.S. Senator Boxer (D-CA) has introduced a companion bill in the Senate. The Berryessa Snow Mountain region stretches nearly one hundred miles from the shores of Lake Berryessa to the peak of Snow Mountain. It encompasses more than 350,000 acres across Napa, Mendocino, Lake, Solano and Yolo Counties. The area is rich in biodiversity, including bald and golden eagles, black bears, mountain lions, tule elk, and rare plants found nowhere else on Earth. The area provides habitat to so many kinds of plants and animals that it has been named a biodiversity hotspot. The Berryessa Snow Mountain region also includes numerous trails, open spaces, lakes and rivers. These resources provide recreation opportunities for hikers, bikers, hunters, campers, off-highway vehicle users, and both motorized and non-motorized boaters. Safeguarding the Berryessa Snow Mountain region would also provide the surrounding communities with economic benefits. Recent studies have shown that local economies surrounding national monuments expanded following the creation of a new national monument. Employment, personal income, and per capita income either continued or improved in each of the regions surrounding the national monuments studied. In California alone, more than half of all residents participate in outdoor recreation each year, supporting more than 700,000 jobs and generating more than $6 billion for our state’s economy. More than 100 businesses in areas surrounding the Berryessa Snow Mountain Region support a national monument designation, as do many nationally recognized recreation and sportsmen groups such as the International Mountain Bicycling Association, Back Country Horsemen, the Equine Land Conservation Resource and the Blue Ribbon Coalition. Additionally, all five counties within the Berryessa Snow Mountain Region have endorsed permanent protection for the area.   Congressman Mike Thompson is proud to represent California’s 5th Congressional District, which includes all or part of Contra Costa, Lake, Napa, Solano and Sonoma Counties.  He is a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Rep. Thompson is also a member of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition and chairs the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Wine Caucus.   # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://valadao.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397977,Rep. Valadao Announces January Mobile Office Hours,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,David Valadao,V000129,valadao.house.gov,,,legacy,"Thursday, January 15, 2015 City of Corcoran Train Depot Office 1099 Otis Avenue Corcoran, California 93212 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM McFarland Community Center 103 West Sherwood McFarland, California 93250 10:00 AM -12:00 PM Lower Tule Irrigation District 357 East Olive Avenue Tipton, California 93272 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Tuesday, January 20, 2015 Parlier Branch Library 1130 East Parlier Avenue Parlier, California 93648 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Shafter Police Station 201 Central Valley Highway Shafter, California 93263 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Sanger Branch Library 1812 Seventh Street Sanger, California 93657 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Fowler Branch Library 306 South Seventh Street Fowler, California 93625 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM Wednesday, January 21, 2015 Selma Branch Library 2200 Selma Street Selma, California 93662 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Wasco Branch Library 1102 7th Street Wasco, CA 93280 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Kingsburg Branch Library 1399 Draper Street Kingsburg, California 93631 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Thursday, January 22, 2015 Firebaugh Branch Library 1315 O Street Firebaugh, California 93622 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Mendota Branch Library 1246 Belmont Avenue Mendota, California 93640 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Casa De La Paloma Apartments 1301 Haven Drive Arvin, California 93203 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Lamont Family Apartments Community Center 700 DiGiorgio Road Lamont, California 93241 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Kerman Branch Library 15081 West Kearney Boulevard Kerman, California 93630 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM Tuesday, January 27, 2015 Delano: Bakersfield College Campus 1450 Timmons Avenue Delano, California 93215 10:00 AM -12:00 PM",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://costa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/costa-announces-funding-help-homeless-veterans-fresno-and-merced,Costa Announces Funding to Help Homeless Veterans in Fresno and Merced Counties,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Jim Costa,C001059,costa.house.gov,,,legacy,"FRESNO, CA- Rep. Jim Costa (CA-16) announced that the Fresno Housing Authority has been awarded $121,319 and the County of Merced Housing Authority has been awarded $79,981 to provide case management and rental assistance to homeless veterans. The Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program is jointly operated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Since 2008, the HUD-VASH program has served nearly 75,000 veterans nationwide. Our veterans have honored our nation through their service to our country's armed forces, putting the needs of our nation above their own. We must ensure that they have a place to call their own and the tools necessary to lead productive lives, said Costa. The funds awarded to the Housing Authorities of Fresno and Merced Counties will allow them to continue their efforts to end homelessness among Valley veterans. The funding provided through the HUD-VASH Program to the agency will help homeless veterans find permanent supportive housing, said County of Merced Housing Authority Executive Director Rennise Ferrario. Since 2012, we have been able to serve more than 25 homeless veterans through the HUD-VASH program locally. The current award will allow us to provide an additional 15 homeless veterans with housing assistance. The funding provides a critical resource in addressing homelessness among veterans in our community. We all have a responsibility to ensure that after serving our county and returning home, that all of our veterans have housing and a place they can call home. We owe it to them. Fresno Housing Authority Executive Director and CEO Preston Prince added, These important federal funds enable Fresno Housing to collaborate in community-wide efforts which focus on providing permanent supportive housing for veterans who have honorably served our country and are now experiencing homelessness. Fresno Housing, with the Department of Veterans Affairs, follows the Housing First strategy, in which homeless individuals are housed and then provided services to meet the conditions in their lives that led to their homelessness. Through the HUD-VASH program, homeless veterans receiving services through the VA can be referred to local housing authorities to obtain VASH vouchers for rental assistance. By combining case management from the VA and housing assistance, the program aims to give longtime homeless veterans the support needed to obtain and maintain permanent housing. Locally, Fresno Housing Authority partners with the Fresno Veterans Affairs Medical Center to provide support to eligible veterans with the help of HUD-VASH funding. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://juliabrownley.house.gov/brownley-welcomes-uclass-fleet-integration-team-to-point-mugu/,Brownley Welcomes UClass Fleet Integration Team to Point Mugu,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Julia Brownley,B001285,juliabrownley.house.gov,juliabrownley,https://juliabrownley.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Oxnard, CA – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) announced that the U.S. Navy will be establishing an Unmanned Carrier-Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS) Fleet Integration Team (FIT) at Point Mugu. “I am proud to report that the UCLASS FIT will be based at Point Mugu, which is yet another example of Naval Base Ventura County’s increasing strategic importance for our nation’s 21st century defense posture,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “I look forward to welcoming the UCLASS FIT personnel and their families to our community.” According to the Department of the Navy, the UCLASS FIT will support the Navy’s persistent, aircraft carrier-based intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, targeting, and strike requirements. The new command will be in place effective October 1, 2015, and will include 8 officers and 12 enlisted personnel. Its mission will be to plan, integrate, and execute the lines of effort required to establish the Initial Operational Capability of the UCLASS system and transition the program to Full Operational Capability. It will determine squadron requirements for manpower, training, maintenance, logistics, carrier integration, optimized fleet response plan, information technology, interoperability, security, and budget. The UCLASS FIT will also coordinate with facilities personnel to determine infrastructure and base operating support requirements, as well as determine associated fleet integration and support requirements for inclusion into the proper programs of record.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z https://matsui.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=284,Important Cruise Passenger Safety Provision Signed Into Law,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Doris Matsui,M001163,matsui.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Friday, December 19, 2014 CONTACT: JONELLE TRIMMER (202) 225-7163 Important Cruise Passenger Safety Provision Signed Into Law Bill includes language from Rep. Matsui's Cruise Passenger Protection Act requiring improvements to crime statistics website The President signed into law this week a Coast Guard reauthorization bill that includes a key provision ensuring the public has access to important safety information they need prior to booking a cruise. This provision was one of several cruise passenger safety provisions included in legislation Congresswoman Matsui introduced last year, the Cruise Passenger Protection Act (CPPA). The bill language transfers the responsibility for maintaining the cruise vessel crime data website from the Coast Guard to the Department of Transportation and requires a number of changes to ensure the website is user-friendly and includes all important data. Specifically, it requires the website to be updated quarterly and sorted by cruise line. The website will be required to identify each cruise line by name, identify each crime committed or allegedly committed by a passenger or crewmember regardless of the status of the investigation, and identify the number of individuals alleged overboard. This is an important victory for cruise safety advocates and for the millions of Americans who have taken a cruise or are considering one in the future. While cruise ships are billed as safe, family-friendly vacations, the reality is that crime happens onboard these ships just as it does anyplace else, said Congresswoman Matsui. This key provision from the Cruise Passenger Protection Act will ensure that anyone considering a cruise can easily view a more accurate number of crimes that occurred on each cruise line, and the nature of the crime. This is a huge step forward toward transparency and ensuring the safety of cruise passengers. The members of ICV are deeply indebted to the many members of the House and Senate who have been dedicated to the protection of cruise ship passengers. The Coast Guard Reauthorization Act will help to bolster and strengthen the existing CVSSA which Congresswoman Matsui authored in 2010 by increasing the public's awareness through the quarterly publication of additional safety information and crime data. All of the victims of cruise ship crime and negligence who for years, have taken their impassioned stories to Congress can breathe a bit easier thanks to the unwavering support of Congress Members such as Congresswoman Matsui and Congressman Poe who like us believed in the irrefutable rightness of this cause. We are indeed grateful on this historic day, said Kendall Carver, chairman of the International Cruise Victims Association (ICV). Congresswoman Matsui is a long-time advocate for improving safety and security aboard cruise vessels. She authored the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA), bipartisan legislation that was signed into law in 2010, requiring the cruise industry to comply with a number of security and crime reporting provisions. Last year, she introduced the CPPA, legislation which would build on the passenger safety measures put in place by the CVSSA by clarifying and strengthening the crime reporting and video surveillance requirements. In addition to requiring the website improvements passed today, this legislation bolsters FBI notification requirements when an alleged incident occurs, and strengthens video surveillance requirements to ensure maximum protection for passengers and victims, while taking steps to avoid privacy concerns. The signing of this law is an important step for ensuring the safety of cruise passengers, but it is just a step. I will be reintroducing the Cruise Passenger Protection Act next Congress to ensure we continue to build upon the security and safety measures aboard our cruise ships, that consumers have access to accurate information, and that victims are given the support and resources they need and deserve, added Matsui. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://schiff.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-schiff-statement-on-sony-hacking,Rep. Schiff Statement on Sony Hacking,2014-12-19,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Adam Schiff,S001150,schiff.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.19.14 Rep. Schiff Statement on Sony Hacking Washington, DC - Today, Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA), a senior Member of the House Intelligence Committee, released the following statement: ""The North Korean government's outrageous act of cyberterrorism against Sony demands a forceful response and I hope that President Obama will ensure that Kim Jong Un and his regime are held to account for an act of economic and political aggression against the United States. I applaud the work of the Intelligence Community and the FBI for their work in tracing the attack to its source. The DPRK, as does any country, has the right to express its displeasure over The Interview  through proper diplomatic channels, but never by  engaging in a sustained cyberattack combined with threats to physically harm American citizens who choose to watch a movie.  Pyongyang’s  power to stifle free speech and artistic freedom must be universally condemned and the Kim regime must be made to understand that acts such as these will only deepen its diplomatic and economic isolation.""The Sony hack is also a  wake-up call to America and the west, who have been far too complacent in the face of the demonstrated and growing cyber threat posed by Russia, China, and Iran, as well as North Korea.  Our national security is not only dependent on physically safeguarding the American people, but also developing the means to prevent a rogue nation or a terrorist group from launching a cyberattack that results in hundreds of millions of dollars in damage or the loss of life.  As a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I have been working with my colleagues to address the cyber threats posed by state and non-state actors.  When the 114th Congress convenes in January I expect that our committee will intensify its efforts to safeguard our critical infrastructure and economy.  This must be a top priority.""I am proud to count much of the entertainment industry as my constituents and I know how much this attack has hurt them and I pledge to do everything possible to ensure that we close vulnerabilities and work to ensure that this never happens again. I am deeply concerned by the precedent of this cyber attack preventing the distribution of a film and hope that it can be widely disseminated in the near future -- this would be the most powerful repudiation of North Korea's belligerent cyber attack. I would also hope that the media would exercise restraint in publishing the private details of personal emails stolen by North Korea -- doing otherwise merely intensifies the harm done by this illegal act."" Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://hunter.house.gov/newsletter-you-wont-want-miss,A Newsletter you won't want to miss...,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Duncan Hunter,H001048,hunter.house.gov,,,legacy,"BIG NEWS FOR SAN DIEGO AND MARITIME TRANSPORTATION—Legislation I authored to reauthorize the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Maritime transportation—an important piece of the San Diego regional economy—is now awaiting the President’s signature after nearly two years of collaborative work between the House and Senate.  Southern Californians are very familiar with the mission of the Coast Guard and the economic contributions of our shipyards and commercial operators, and I am especially grateful for the opportunity to represent their interests and fight on their behalf.       TRUTH STRANGER THAN FICTION—In September, four Turkish nationals who identified themselves as members of the Revolutionary People’s Liberation Front/Party (DHKP/C) were apprehended in Texas after crossing the U.S.-Mexico land border.  Oddly, a judge recently ordered that two of the individuals be released, which the Secretary of Homeland Security described as not his “preference.”  And there’s no evidence whatsoever that the Secretary either challenged or attempted to resist the order under his authority.   The Department of Homeland Security then lost track of the subjects, who were recommended for terrorist watch lists at the time of their apprehension, only to learn later that they fled to Canada, where they are now requesting asylum.  Read more on this and my reaction.  SIREN: JUDGE RULES OBAMA IMMIGRATION ORDER UNCONSTITUTIONAL—A federal judge yesterday took a swipe at President Obama’s plan to ease deportations for as many as 5 million illegal immigrants, ruling it unconstitutional.  The significance of the ruling cannot be overstated and even though this is the first salvo in a legal battle that is sure to continue, the decision sets the stage and tone for an even bigger clash ahead.  A CIVICS 101 LESSON FOR THE WHITE HOUSE—The judge overseeing the case ruled that by taking executive action to curb deportations, the President is violating the U.S. Constitution’s guarantee of separation of powers and the “take care clause,” which requires the executive branch to execute and enforce laws passed by Congress.  OMNIBUS CLARITY—Legislation passed by Congress to fund the federal government over the next year, with the exception of the Department of Homeland Security, has been chided for funding the President’s executive order.  The bill does not fund amnesty, nor does it clear a lane for the President’s plan.  The nonpartisan Congressional Research Service—a crucial resource available to members of the House and Senate—stated that the President’s plan could continue in the absence of an appropriation or during a government shutdown, due to the fact that program funding relies entirely on user fees.  Either a change in law is required or funding must be withheld through alternate means.  Here’s a bit of a primer, courtesy of the Washington Examiner: “Can Congress defund ‘executive amnesty?’ It’s not that simple.” WORTH MENTIONING—an amendment to deny funding in the Omnibus for the President’s plan—which I cosponsored—was ruled out of order and therefore not offered during floor debate. THE UPSIDE: The legislation does fund the federal government through the rest of the fiscal year, but the Department of Homeland Security is funded only through January and February of the coming year.  With new Senate leadership on deck—and the presumption of favorable court rulings, with one in hand already—the stage has been set for a confrontation on Homeland Security appropriations in the first months of the next legislative session that starts in January.  So stay tuned.     A NEW CHAPTER IN THE HISTORY OF MT SOLEDAD was written this week when legislation was sent to the President that includes a provision I offered to preserve the embattled San Diego veteran’s memorial.  For nearly three decades, the memorial has been contested in state and federal courts as a state-sponsored endorsement of religion.  My provision transfers the memorial to the Mount Soledad Memorial Association, a private entity, and thus removes any association or ownership by the federal government.  The Associated Press recently called the Mount Soledad fight one of the “nation’s longest-running church-state conflicts.”  Once the President puts pen to paper and signs the legislation, which is on his desk at this very moment, the process for transferring the memorial can begin.   Is this the end of the conflict?  Let’s hope.       SERVING YOU: Just a reminder, my offices are available to assist individuals and families on many levels.  Having trouble with a federal agency?  Need assistance navigating a federal program?  Planning a trip to DC?  My offices can help.  All services—with the exception of purchasing flags—are provided at no cost.  Check out my website at www.hunter.house.gov for more information.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kevinmccarthy.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/congressman-mccarthy-returns-from-visiting-troops-overseas,Congressman McCarthy Returns from Visiting Troops Overseas,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Kevin McCarthy,M001165,kevinmccarthy.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC - Congressman Kevin McCarthy just returned from leading a congressional delegation to the Middle East to examine the unfolding campaign against ISIL and to confer with some of America's close partners about regional security threats. The Majority Leader was joined by incoming chairman of the House Armed Services Committee Mac Thornberry (TX-13), incoming chairman of the House Intelligence Committee Devin Nunes (CA-22), and chairman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Rodney Frelinghuysen (NJ-11). While also on his trip, Congressman McCarthy met with Bakersfield native, Sergeant Jodi Bradshaw who is currently serving in Iraq. Congressman McCarthy released the following statement:   ""The United States is continually mindful of the significant challenges posed by ISIL and other radical extremists to our country and our allies in the Middle East. Congress remains concerned about our strategy to confront these challenges, and we plan to conduct vigorous oversight on the President’s policies in the weeks and months to come. America must remain resolute in confronting terrorists and other adversaries that mean to harm us and our partners.    ""In our trip to the Middle East, I particularly appreciated the opportunity to personally express my gratitude to America's men and women in uniform, intelligence professionals, and diplomats who are spending this Christmas season away from their families in defense of our country. Many of our own neighbors are selflessly serving overseas and on this trip I was honored to meet Sergeant Jodi Bradshaw from Bakersfield. Sergeant Bradshaw is one of many from our communities who represent the very best America has to offer in defense of our freedoms in an increasingly hostile world. These brave and selfless Americans will remain in our thoughts and prayers throughout the Christmas season for their service.""    Note: The delegation traveled to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Doha, Qatar; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; and Baghdad and Erbil, Iraq     ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rohrabacher.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rohrabacher-erdogan-must-reverse-crackdown-in-turkey,Rohrabacher: Erdogan Must Reverse Crackdown in Turkey,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Dana Rohrabacher,R000409,rohrabacher.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Concerning Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent sweeping arrests of journalists and political critics, Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, chairman of the House Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats, released the following statement: ""Turkey has long been our friend and ally, the bridge between the West and the East and, as such, an important go-between by which to mediate our differences and find common interests with the Muslim world. It has been a model of a modern, democratic state among Islamic countries. ""President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in recent years has steadily placed that relationship into doubt, as he has eroded democratic values in his own country and proven an unsure bulwark against Islamist terrorism in the region. Last weekend's massive crackdown on journalists and other critics of the Erdogan government have dramatically worsened prospects for a workable relationship with Turkey. ""I call on President Erdogan to release, immediately, those of his critics now being held in jail. He must understand that his authoritarian behavior signals to the world, not his strength and political popularity, but his growing weakness and desperation as a leader. He will find himself horribly disappointed if he imagines his show of political suppression will appease and mollify the Islamist extremists, such as ISIS, who have used Turkey as a passageway to Iraq.  ""Erdogan's brutal crackdown betrays the promise of a modern Turkey in which its cosmopolitan people enjoy the personal freedoms necessary for a strong social, political, and economic order, indeed an order in which the virtues and prosperity historically associated with Islam can flourish. If he persists in the course so startlingly on display these last days, he will find himself one of history's abject losers. He needs to return to those principles of a free and open society that he advocated when first elected by the Turkish people a decade ago.""                                                                                ######",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://royce.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397598,President Signs Royce Credit Union Share Insurance Fund Parity Act,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Edward Royce,R000487,royce.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, President Barack Obama signed the Credit Union Share Insurance Fund Parity Act, H.R. 3468, into law.  The legislation, originally introduced by U.S. Representative Ed Royce (R-CA) last November, passed the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously on May 6, 2014, and the U.S. Senate on December 11, 2014. ""The Credit Union Share Insurance Fund Parity Act strengthens national credit unions' commitment to IOLTAs and the legal services they help fund for local communities,"" said Rep. Royce. ""I applaud the President for supporting my efforts to deliver regulatory relief to our nation's credit unions that currently serve over 100 million members.” “I applaud the President for signing this legislation into law because it is critical in ensuring IOLTA's full value in light of any potential credit union failure,"" ​said U.S. Representative Ed Perlmutter (D-CO), a cosponsor of the legislation. ""More importantly, the interest earned on Lawyer Trust Accounts goes to grants improving access to civil justice and legal services for the poor."" The Credit Union Share Insurance Fund Parity Act expands federal deposit insurance to include Interest on Lawyer Trust Accounts (IOLTAs) and similar escrow accounts housed within credit unions. Unlike FDIC coverage, the current regulatory opinion of the National Credit Union Administration is that funds held by credit union members on behalf of those who are not federally-insured credit union members will not be insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund.  This has created a disparity in coverage when examining IOLTAs. Specifically, the bill amends the Federal Credit Union Act to require that pass-through share insurance coverage be provided when a credit union member holds funds on behalf of a nonmember in an IOLTA or other similar account. Rep. Royce is a senior member of the House Financial Services Committee and has served on the committee since 1995.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://scottpeters.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rep-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-rename-downtown-courthouse-signed-into-law,Rep. Peters Bipartisan Bill to Rename Downtown Courthouse Signed Into Law,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Scott Peters,P000608,scottpeters.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Peters’ Bipartisan Bill to Rename Downtown Courthouse Signed Into Law WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Obama signed Congressman Scott Peters’ (CA-52) legislation to rename the Federal Courthouse and Judicial Center in Downtown San Diego into law. H.R. 1378 designates the Courthouse at 333 W. Broadway as the “James M. Carter and Judith N. Keep United States Courthouse” and the surrounding center as the “John Rhoades Federal Judicial Center.” “These judges served the public with distinction,” Rep. Peters said. “This designation will honor their career-long commitments to justice. I want to thank the local legal community for their multi-year work to move this effort forward. It also would not have been possible without the bipartisan support from Congresswoman Susan Davis and Congressman Darrell Issa over the past few months.” The legislation passed the House of Representatives on December 9 and the Senate earlier this week. For more information on H.R. 1378 and background on Judges Carter, Keep, and Rhoades click HERE. To see Congressman Peters’ speech in the U.S. House supporting his legislation click HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://costa.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/costa-applauds-decision-increase-support-crime-victims-fund,Costa Applauds Decision to Increase Support for Crime Victims Fund,2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Jim Costa,C001059,costa.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Congressmen Jim Costa (D-CA) and Ted Poe (R-TX), along with U.S. Senators Pat Toomey (R-PA) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY) issued the following statement regarding enactment of a provision to increase disbursals from the Crime Victims Fund: We are pleased that Tuesday night the president signed into law a requirement that a larger share of already-available dollars go to crime victims. The Crime Victims Fund receives no taxpayer dollars; it is funded by criminal fines and penalties assessed in federal court. For over a decade, Congress has unfortunately capped the total amount of dollars that can be allocated to assist victims of child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, and other crimes. This bipartisan measure represents a step in the right direction. Next Congress, we will continue to fight for crime victims by introducing a bipartisan, permanent fix that will increase the amount of money allocated to serve crime victims each year. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sherman.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sherman-statement-on-passing-of-rabbi-harold-schulweis-renowned-jewish,"Sherman Statement on Passing of Rabbi Harold Schulweis, Renowned Jewish Leader",2014-12-18,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Brad Sherman,S000344,sherman.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington DC - Congressman Brad Sherman issued the following statement after news of the passing of Rabbi Harold Schulweis. I am deeply saddened by the loss of Rabbi Schulweis. He was my Rabbi and I've been a member of his congregation at Valley Beth Shalom since the mid-1990s. As a leader in the community for over 45 years, he was an innovator that transformed the synagogue beyond a place of worship into a true community that fostered activism, counseling, and charity. My wife and I had the honor of listening to his sermons on many occasions; he was a moving speaker and constant inspiration. My mother, wife and I also had the privilege of joining him and his wife for dinner from time to time where he shared his insight and wisdom. Rabbi Schulweis was one of the preeminent Jewish thinkers, scholars and intellectuals of our time and the author of many books including For Those Who Can't Believe: Overcoming the Obstacles to Faith and Evil and the Morality of God. His leadership taught us the importance of reaching beyond our borders. Jewish World Watch, an organization he founded, brought schools, churches, and synagogues together to combat hunger and genocide across the globe. Do not stand idly by' was his frequent refrain referring to the work we all must do together to overcome injustice. He was also a reformer, who was among the first Conservative rabbis to welcome openly gay and lesbian Jews into his synagogue. His legacy and his writings leave a lasting impact here in Los Angeles and in communities everywhere. My wife Lisa and I send our sincerest condolences to his wife Malkah and his children Seth, Ethan, and Alyssa and the entire Schulweis family. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bass.house.gov/press-release/bass-applauds-moves-normalize-diplomatic-relations-cuba-release-alan-gross,"Rep. Bass Applauds Moves to Normalize Diplomatic Relations with Cuba, Release of Alan Gross",2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Karen Bass,B001270,bass.house.gov,,,legacy,"LOS ANGELES—Today, following the announcement of American Alan Gross’ release from a Cuban prison after five years of incarceration, President Barack Obama announced significant changes in U.S. policy as it relates to Cuba to promote more effective change in Cuba that is consistent with U.S. support for the Cuban people and in line with U.S. national security interests. In addition to changing diplomatic relations, changes to remittance, trade and travel rules are also being proposed. These changes are the most dramatic since relations were severed in 1961. “I am first and foremost absolutely thrilled to learn about the release of Alan Gross from prison in Cuba today,” said Rep. Karen Bass, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. “I look forward to today’s announcement by President Obama, which signals a substantial first step in normalizing relations with Cuba. This is the most significant foreign policy action with our neighbor to the south in decades and I applaud the Obama Administration and all those who worked to make these changes a reality allowing for a free flow of ideas and trade, including a new avenue for agricultural businesses in California. We will also have the opportunity to test and share medical breakthroughs, particularly in the area of drugs that treat diabetes and long-term health concerns.”   Key Components of the Updated Policy Approach from the White House:   Establishing diplomatic relations with Cuba The President has instructed the Secretary of State to immediately initiate discussions with Cuba on the re-establishment of diplomatic relations with Cuba, which were severed in January 1961. In the coming months, we will re-establish an embassy in Havana and carry out high-level exchanges and visits between our two governments as part of the normalization process.  As an initial step, the Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs will lead the U.S. Delegation to the next round of U.S.-Cuba Migration Talks in January 2015, in Havana. U.S. engagement will be critical when appropriate and will include continued strong support for improved human rights conditions and democratic reforms in Cuba and other measures aimed at fostering improved conditions for the Cuban people. The United States will work with Cuba on matters of mutual concern and that advance U.S. national interests, such as migration, counternarcotics, environmental protection, and trafficking in persons, among other issues.    Adjusting regulations to more effectively empower the Cuban people The changes announced today will soon be implemented via amendments to regulations of the Departments of the Treasury and Commerce.   Our new policy changes will further enhance our goal of empowering the Cuban population. Our travel and remittance policies are helping Cubans by providing alternative sources of information and opportunities for self-employment and private property ownership, and by strengthening independent civil society.  These measures will further increase people-to-people contact; further support civil society in Cuba; and further enhance the free flow of information to, from, and among the Cuban people.  Persons must comply with all provisions of the revised regulations; violations of the terms and conditions are enforceable under U.S. law.   Facilitating an expansion of travel under general licenses for the 12 existing categories of travel to Cuba authorized by law- General licenses will be made available for all authorized travelers in the following existing categories: (1) family visits; (2) official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations; (3) journalistic activity; (4) professional research and professional meetings; (5) educational activities; (6) religious activities; (7) public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions; (8) support for the Cuban people; (9) humanitarian projects; (10) activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes; (11) exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials; and (12) certain export transactions that may be considered for authorization under existing regulations and guidelines.  Travelers in the 12 categories of travel to Cuba authorized by law will be able to make arrangements through any service provider that complies with the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) regulations governing travel services to Cuba, and general licenses will authorize provision of such services.  The policy changes make it easier for Americans to provide business training for private Cuban businesses and small farmers and provide other support for the growth of Cuba’s nascent private sector.  Additional options for promoting the growth of entrepreneurship and the private sector in Cuba will be explored.   Facilitating remittances to Cuba by U.S. persons- Remittance levels will be raised from $500 to $2,000 per quarter for general donative remittances to Cuban nationals (except to certain officials of the government or the Communist party); and donative remittances for humanitarian projects, support for the Cuban people, and support for the development of private businesses in Cuba will no longer require a specific license. Remittance forwarders will no longer require a specific license.   Authorizing expanded commercial sales/exports from the United States of certain goods and services- The expansion will seek to empower the nascent Cuban private sector.  Items that will be authorized for export include certain building materials for private residential construction, goods for use by private sector Cuban entrepreneurs, and agricultural equipment for small farmers.  This change will make it easier for Cuban citizens to have access to certain lower-priced goods to improve their living standards and gain greater economic independence from the state.   Authorizing American citizens to import additional goods from Cuba- Licensed U.S. travelers to Cuba will be authorized to import $400 worth of goods from Cuba, of which no more than $100 can consist of tobacco products and alcohol combined.   Facilitating authorized transactions between the United States and Cuba- U.S. institutions will be permitted to open correspondent accounts at Cuban financial institutions to facilitate the processing of authorized transactions. The regulatory definition of the statutory term “cash in advance” will be revised to specify that it means “cash before transfer of title”; this will provide more efficient financing of authorized trade with Cuba. U.S. credit and debit cards will be permitted for use by travelers to Cuba. These measures will improve the speed, efficiency, and oversight of authorized payments between the United States and Cuba.   Initiating new efforts to increase Cubans’ access to communications and their ability to communicate freely- Cuba has an internet penetration of about five percent—one of the lowest rates in the world.  The cost of telecommunications in Cuba is exorbitantly high, while the services offered are extremely limited. The commercial export of certain items that will contribute to the ability of the Cuban people to communicate with people in the United States and the rest of the world will be authorized.  This will include the commercial sale of certain consumer communications devices, related software, applications, hardware, and services, and items for the establishment and update of communications-related systems. Telecommunications providers will be allowed to establish the necessary mechanisms, including infrastructure, in Cuba to provide commercial telecommunications and internet services, which will improve telecommunications between the United States and Cuba.   Updating the application of Cuba sanctions in third countries- U.S.-owned or -controlled entities in third countries will be generally licensed to provide services to, and engage in financial transactions with, Cuban individuals in third countries.  In addition, general licenses will unblock the accounts at U.S. banks of Cuban nationals who have relocated outside of Cuba; permit U.S. persons to participate in third-country professional meetings and conferences related to Cuba; and, allow foreign vessels to enter the United States after engaging in certain humanitarian trade with Cuba, among other measures.   Pursuing discussions with the Cuban and Mexican governments to discuss our unresolved maritime boundary in the Gulf of Mexico- Previous agreements between the United States and Cuba delimit the maritime space between the two countries within 200 nautical miles from shore.  The United States, Cuba, and Mexico have extended continental shelf in an area within the Gulf of Mexico where the three countries have not yet delimited any boundaries. The United States is prepared to invite the governments of Cuba and Mexico to discuss shared maritime boundaries in the Gulf of Mexico.   Initiating a review of Cuba’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism- The President has instructed the Secretary of State to immediately launch such a review, and provide a report to the President within six months regarding Cuba’s support for international terrorism.  Cuba was placed on the list in 1982.   Addressing Cuba’s participation in the 2015 Summit of the Americas in Panama- President Obama will participate in the Summit of the Americas in Panama.  Human rights and democracy will be key Summit themes.  Cuban civil society must be allowed to participate along with civil society from other countries participating in the Summit, consistent with the region’s commitments under the Inter-American Democratic Charter.  The United States welcomes a constructive dialogue among Summit governments on the Summit’s principles.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://chu.house.gov/press-release/rep-judy-chu-praises-economic-contributions-core-copyright-industries,Rep. Judy Chu Praises Economic Contributions of Core Copyright Industries,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Judy Chu,C001080,chu.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC – The core copyright industries – which includes books, music, motion pictures, radio and TV broadcasting, computer software, newspapers, periodicals, and journals – added more than $1.1 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2013 according to a report from the International Intellectual Property Alliance. Co-chairs of the Creative Rights Caucus Reps. Judy Chu (CA-27) and Doug Collins (GA-9) release the following statements: “Employing more than 5.5 million people, our creative industries contributed more than a trillion dollars to our economy last year. This is a significant portion of our GDP, none of which would be possible without strong copyright protections. As co-chair of the Congressional Creative Rights Caucus, I am so proud of the talented minds and innovative workers that produce arts and entertainment admired around the world. We need to continue working to guarantee the protection necessary to help this industry continue to thrive,” said Rep. Chu. “Copyright is the foundation of innovation, and innovation is the force that drives our economy. This study confirms what creators know best, and what I’m committed to making sure Congress understands in the coming months,” said Rep. Collins. The report, “Copyright Industries in the U.S. Economy,” can be found online here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pelosi.house.gov//news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-on-the-failure-to-reauthorize-the-terrorism-risk-insurance-act,Pelosi Statement on the Failure to Reauthorize the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Nancy Pelosi,P000197,pelosi.house.gov,,,legacy,"Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616 San Francisco – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi today released the following statement on the Senate’s failure to reauthorize The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA), bipartisan legislation to protect American businesses from financial ruin following a terrorist attack. “The Senate had an opportunity to remove uncertainty for businesses, for our economy, and for the American people by renewing bipartisan legislation that provides insurance coverage for businesses following a terrorist attack on American soil.  “TRIA has helped businesses and communities rebuild and thrive in the years since September 11, 2001.  But partisanship blocked progress yesterday when a single Senator bogged down the legislation.  The American people want our government to work as hard as they do, and the failure to renew this critical legislation jeopardizes the economic security of our nation. “Without insurance, American entrepreneurs eager to set up shop in San Francisco and across the country may not build, may not expand, and may not create the jobs that spur economic growth.  For families, businesses, and our economy, we must make reauthorization a priority in the next Congress.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pelosi.house.gov//news/press-releases/pelosi-statement-on-us-normalization-of-relations-with-cuba,Pelosi Statement on U.S. Normalization of Relations with Cuba,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Nancy Pelosi,P000197,pelosi.house.gov,,,legacy,"Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616 San Francisco – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement after President Obama announced his administration will take steps to normalize diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba: “After more than 50 years, it is clear that policy of isolating Cuba is serving neither the interests of the American people nor the democratic aspirations of the Cubans.  We must acknowledge our policy towards Cuba is a relic of a bygone era that weakens our leadership in the Americas and has not advanced freedom and prosperity in Cuba.   “President Obama has achieved a historic diplomatic breakthrough that renews our leadership in the Western Hemisphere.  I commend the President and Secretary Kerry for their vision and leadership in this initiative, and in securing the release of American prisoner Alan Gross and the U.S intelligence agent who has languished in Cuban prison for two decades.  The initiatives announced by President Obama today, including those in the field of agriculture, build on the bipartisan work of many in the Congress over the years.  We also recognize the role of the abiding moral leadership of Pope Francis in helping our nations reach this day.   “However, we must also acknowledge that democratic activists and political prisoners have suffered for decades under the brutal reign of this oppressive regime, and the pain they and their families continue to face will not cease today.  With clear eyes, we will continue to call on the Cuban regime to yield to the political, social, and economic dreams of the Cuban people.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=99ed6287-77bd-46cc-b48b-9a232d25536e,Senates report on CIA torture was comprehensive-Washington Post,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"By: Dianne Feinstein Originally appeared in the Washington Post The Senate Intelligence Committee last week released its report on the CIA detention and interrogation program, which in some cases amounted to torture. Since then, defenders of the program have been vocal. But instead of disputing facts — supported by 6.3 million pages of the CIA’s own records — they are complaining about process. The latest assault by Marc Thiessen, a Post columnist and former George W. Bush speechwriter, suggested the study is not comprehensive [“Sen. Feinstein lives up to Rolling Stone’s standards”]. That is absurd. This is the most comprehensive oversight study ever conducted by the U.S. Senate. In addition to millions of CIA cables, e-mails, memos, inspector general reports and other documents, committee investigators drew extensively on more than 100 interview transcripts of key CIA personnel, including Director George Tenet, Deputy Director John McLaughlin, Acting General Counsel John Rizzo and Counterterrorism Center Director Jose Rodriguez. These interviews were conducted at the time the program was active — not years later and not subject to rationalization, revision or memory lapses. The committee would have liked to conduct additional interviews for further context, but because of a Justice Department criminal investigation, the CIA refused to compel personnel to participate. The CIA also had ample opportunity to weigh in on the study. Key personnel testified before the committee, and the lengthy agency response was integrated into the final committee report. I understand those involved may want to distance themselves from the terrible acts that were committed, but facts are facts. This study will stand the test of time and hopefully ensure that such mistakes are never made again. Dianne Feinstein, Washington The writer, a Democrat from California, is chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=77f83895-9d1d-48fc-b100-50124fa0f421,Feinstein Statement on Cuba,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington—Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today released the following statement on Cuba: “The release of Alan Gross from a Cuban prison is wonderful news for his family and our country. Alan was held for five years and is in poor health, and I’m pleased he will spend the holidays at home. “This is also good news for our two nations. For too long our relationship has been soured by mistrust and clouded by memories of the Cold War. Reports that our countries will move to normalize relations are very welcome. Reconciling our differences, opening embassies, increasing trade and building people-to-people relationships are all long overdue. “It is my hope that normalizing relations will spur positive changes for the people of Cuba. Today is a historic day, and I am looking forward to a brighter future with our Caribbean neighbor.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/bipartisan-coalition-of-congressional-leaders-call-for-greater-diplomatic-action-to-end-violence-in-south-sudan,Bipartisan Coalition of Congressional Leaders Call for Greater Diplomatic Action to End Violence in South Sudan,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Barbara Lee,L000551,lee.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.14 Bipartisan Coalition of Congressional Leaders Call for Greater Diplomatic Action to End Violence in South Sudan Washington, D.C. More than two dozen Congressional leaders, led by members of the bipartisan Congressional Caucus on Sudan and South Sudan, wrote to President Obama asking his Administration to increase diplomatic efforts to end this brutal conflict before more civilian suffer and the region is further destabilized. Since the conflict began in December 2013, millions of South Sudanese have been displaced and thousands have killed. Nearly two million South Sudanese have been pushed to the brink of famine. Likewise, the State's civil society has been suppressed. Current legislation in South Sudan would have a significant impact on nation NGOs and South Sudanese civil society, who should become the backbone of a free and vibrant South Sudan, write the authors. The full text of the letter can be found here. ### Congresswoman Lee is co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Sudan and South Sudan and a member of the Appropriations Committee subcommittee of State and Foreign Operations. She is also a member of the Budget Committee, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip's Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity. Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-lee-announces-600-000-grant-for-school-based-health-centers,"Congresswoman Lee Announces $600,000 Grant for School-Based Health Centers",2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Barbara Lee,L000551,lee.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.14 Congresswoman Lee Announces $600,000 Grant for School-Based Health Centers Oakland, CA Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator, Jared Blumenfeld, presented a $600,000 grant to the Public Health Institute's Regional Asthma Management & Prevention, in Oakland. This grant will help school-based health centers nationwide prevent and manage environmental asthma triggers for children at school and at home. I am pleased these important federal resources are coming into the district to prevent, address and treat the disproportionately high rates of asthma amongst young people of color in our community. TheEast Bay community continues to fight for environmental justice and children's health. It is an honor to represent that legacy in Congress, said Congresswoman Lee. Today's announcement is an important step towards addressing health inequalities in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. As a member of the Appropriations subcommittee and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus Health Task Force chair, I will continue to work to ensure strong federal investments in community health and environmental justice. ### Congresswoman Lee is a member of the Appropriations and Budget Committees, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip's Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity. Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-lee-applauds-the-release-of-alan-gross,Congresswoman Lee Applauds the Release of Alan Gross,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Barbara Lee,L000551,lee.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.14 Congresswoman Lee Applauds the Release of Alan Gross Congresswoman Lee released the following statement applauding the humanitarian release of Alan Gross: The release of Alan Gross is both a diplomatic and a moral victory. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. Over the last five years, I have met with Alan many times in Cuba and worked with all parties to secure his release. I applaud the President for his tremendous leadership and all those involved in securing his release. The release of Alan Gross is an important step to ending the U.S.'s failed and unpopular policy towards Cuba. I look forward to additional steps to fully normalize relations with Cuba it is far past time. I will continue my work with President Obama, the Administration and all my colleagues to support and advance normal relations with Cuba and an end to the failed embargo. ### Congresswoman Lee recently returned from Cuba. She is a member of the Appropriations and Budget Committees, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip's Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity. Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-lee-celebrates-historic-step-to-normalize-relations-with-cuba,Congresswoman Lee Celebrates Historic Step to Normalize Relations with Cuba,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Barbara Lee,L000551,lee.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.14 Congresswoman Lee Celebrates Historic Step to Normalize Relations with Cuba Washington, DC Congresswoman Lee released the following statement regarding the President's historic announcement on Cuba. Congresswoman Lee recently returned from leading a congressional delegation to the island: I applaud the President for his historic step towards normalizing relations with our neighbor. In the more than fifty years since the embargo began, U.S. policy towards Cuba has been an unpopular failure and it is past time for change. I have traveled to Cuba more than 20 times since 1977 and returned last night from leading a Congressional delegation to examine diabetes care and treatment. By moving towards normalized relations with Cuba, the U.S. has the opportunity to work towards a more productive relationship that benefits both the American and Cuban people. Americans should have the freedom to travel to Cuba and I am glad to see the President making it easier for Americans to travel to Cuba. I will continue to work with President Obama, the Administration and my colleagues to end U.S. travel restrictions to Cuba. Now it is time for Congress to act to fully normalize relations by ending the embargo. ### Congresswoman Lee has traveled to Cuba more than 20 times since 1977. Earlier this week, Congresswoman Lee led her most recent Congressional delegation to examine diabetes care and treatment in Cuba. She has met with Alan Gross more than four times in the effort to support his release. Congresswoman Lee has helped lead Congressional efforts to end the U.S.'s failed policies toward Cuba, including offering numerous amendments, and legislation. Congresswoman Lee most recently sent a letter to the President just last week calling for U.S. participation in the 7th Summit of the Americas and normalizing relations. Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-lees-statement-on-the-passing-of-rudy-lombard,Congresswoman Lee's Statement on the Passing of Rudy Lombard,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Barbara Lee,L000551,lee.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.17.14 Congresswoman Lee's Statement on the Passing of Rudy Lombard Oakland, CA - Congresswoman Lee issued the following statement remembering the life and legacy of Rudy Lombard: I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend, Rudy Lombard. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and community. Rudy's passion, activism and leadership for justice have improved countless lives, including mine. Rudy was larger than life he was a Freedom Rider, a civil rights legend, a mayoral candidate, an author-chef and a public health advocate. I met Rudy during the 1970s and had the good fortune to witness more than four decades of his work to make the world a fairer and healthier place. His restaurant is Oakland, Lombards, became popular because of his delicious food and generous hospitality. Over the years, his wisdom and joy were a constant source of inspiration for me and many others. Rudy will be sorely missed by the huge community of family, friends and activists who learned from him over the years. The Bay Area joins with those around the country, especially in his beloved hometown of New Orleans, in saying well done thy good and faithful servant.' We will miss Rudy but his spirit and legacy will live forever. ### Congresswoman Lee is a member of the Appropriations and Budget Committees, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip's Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity. Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://waters.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-waters-welcomes-president-s-new-course-cuba,Congresswoman Waters Welcomes the Presidents New Course on Cuba,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Maxine Waters,W000187,waters.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congresswoman Waters Welcomes the President's New Course on Cuba Washington, D.C. -- Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) issued a statement congratulating the President for his announcement of historic steps to chart a new course in U.S. relations with Cuba. Her statement follows: ""As a long-time advocate of improved relations with Cuba who has traveled to the island several times, I commend the President for initiating discussions with Cuba on the re-establishment of diplomatic relations and for authorizing increased trade, facilitating remittances, and expanding opportunities for Americans to travel to this island nation, just 90 miles off our shore. The United States has for years been supporting an unreasonable policy with regard to Cuba. The embargo is counterproductive and has done more harm than good to the cause of freedom in Cuba, and I fully support President Obama's efforts to move us towards a more rational policy in this area. Allowing expanded commercial activity with Cuba will enhance U.S. national security, create opportunities for American businesses and workers, and provide goods and services that will improve the living standards of the Cuban people. Facilitating trade in consumer communications equipment and telecommunications services will increase Cubans' access to information and their ability to communicate freely. Facilitating remittances will be especially helpful for Cuban Americans desiring to assist their families in Cuba. Expanding opportunities for Americans to travel to Cuba is good foreign policy, and it is consistent with American values. Throughout the Cold War, individual Americans traveled to the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe. They met with individual citizens, and they talked about life in America. Some attended universities and educational programs, and some of them met with dissidents. Enabling American students, professionals, businesspeople, religious leaders, and human rights activists to travel freely to Cuba will serve American interests, empower civil society in Cuba, and educate the Cuban people about the American way of life. I congratulate the President, and I look forward to working with him to chart a new course in our nation's relations with Cuba."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cardenas.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/cardenas-passes-first-piece-of-legislation,CARDENAS PASSES FIRST PIECE OF LEGISLATION,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Tony Cárdenas,C001097,cardenas.house.gov,,,legacy,"CARDENAS PASSES FIRST PIECE OF LEGISLATION Law provides the beginnings of effective cyberprotection for defense contractors in the San Fernando Valley and throughout America.   (Washington, D.C.) -- U.S. Rep. Tony Cárdenas (D-San Fernando Valley) successfully passed his first piece of legislation in the 113th session of Congress this week, as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Cárdenas’ law will help protect Valley businesses from foreign hacking and other cyber threats. While hacking and cyber crimes have come into sharp scrutiny in Los Angeles with the hacking of Sony emails, more than 200,000 cyber incidents involving federal agencies, companies that run critical infrastructure like nuclear power plants, dams and transit systems and contract partners occurred in 2013. Cárdenas’ legislation was contained within the NDAA, which passed the Senate late last week, after passing the House last month. Now, the bill will go to the President’s desk for an expected signature. “Defending our nation is not limited to military bases and warzones,” said Cárdenas. “Every year thousands of attempts are made to break into critical systems in our government, through small businesses who may not have robust computer security. We must work with small businesses in our country to make certain that none of these attempts succeed.” Cárdenas originally filed an amendment to the NDAA in May, mandating cybertraining and education by the Defense Department for small businesses that contract with the Pentagon. Included in these would be hundreds of San Fernando Valley contractors who manufacture parts and technologies for the United States government. “Los Angeles and the Valley are driven by manufacturing,” said Cárdenas. “Many of these manufacturers support the brave men and women who defend our country. We have to protect the intellectual property of these companies from hacking, and we absolutely must safeguard the technologies that protect our warfighters.” 87 million sensitive or private records have been exposed through breaches of federal networks since 2006. Currently, more than 35 percent of cyber intrusions are not detected by civilian agencies, and nearly half of all federal cybersecurity incidents were caused by federal employees or contractors. The Defense Department has already committed more than $20 million to combat electronic and Internet threats. The conference committee, that made the changes that became the final, approved version of the NDAA, began the process of creating Cardenas’ proposed education schemes by directing the Government Accounting Office (GAO) to prepare a report on gaps and weaknesses in these areas of cybersecurity. Following that report, due in November of 2015, changes called for by the Cárdenas amendment will be undertaken by the Defense Department and the Small Business Administration. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cook.house.gov//media-center/newsletter/congressman-cooks-newsletter-december-16-2014,"Congressman Cook's Newsletter: December 16, 2014",2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Paul Cook,C001094,cook.house.gov,,,legacy,"Capitol Update A message from Congressman Cook on the Omnibus Spending Bill Many of you reached out to me to voice your opinions about the Omnibus Spending Bill. The bill, passed by Congress last week, will keep the government open. If Congress had not taken action the government would have shut down. This bill sets the stage for a showdown on the President’s executive order on immigration after January when a Republican House and Senate will be sworn in.  The bill provides more than $1 trillion for operation of the federal government through September 2015. It is consistent with defense and non-defense budget caps, and all the terms agreed to in the Ryan-Murray Budget Agreement. It also puts funds for the Department of Homeland Security under a temporary Continuing Resolution until February 27. President Obama’s executive order is being implemented by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS) agency. This fee-based organization collects money from processed immigration papers, and cannot be defunded. In fact, even if we had shut down the government last week, it would have been allowed to continue implementing Obama’s amnesty through fee revenue. The only way to reverse the President’s executive order is to pass a bill that includes specific policy riders banning CIS from using fee money to carry it out. This cannot be done as long as Harry Reid controls the Senate, but in February, the House will be able to work with the Senate to pass a Homeland Security funding bill blocking the President’s illegal orders. Because the rest of the government will already be funded, this will allow us to confront the President without letting him blackmail us by threatening to shut down the government. I’m already fighting to stop the President from forcing laws on Americans. I voted for H.R. 5759, the “Block Immigration Executive Action Act.” Under H.R. 5759, the President would be barred from using executive orders, regulations, or other actions to prevent the deportation of illegal immigrants in the U.S. I will continue to fight to stop the president’s lawless amnesty, and will continue fighting to block it. Congressman Cook Votes for California Drought Relief Effort Congressman Cook voted for H.R. 5781, the California Emergency Drought Relief Act of 2014. Currently, California is facing the worst drought in 1,200 years which has led to high unemployment and higher food prices across the country. This bill will expedite the approval of projects to address water supply shortages in California. This vital piece of legislation provides eighteen months of relief (two water years) while protecting the State Water Project and protecting Northern California water rights. There are three to four months of rain in California and under H.R. 5781 as much water as possible will be captured during that time. Additional water will be stored by capturing high river flows from storms. H.R. 5781 also provides regulatory flexibility to expedite permits and complete reviews to improve water quality and water transfer requests. It does not amend the Endangered Species Act, or deprive federal fishery agencies of any discretion to take actions necessary for the long-term survival of listed species. Cook says, “This legislation will provide much needed relief to Californians suffering under horrendous drought conditions without harming the environment. This common sense bill brings together ideas from the House and Senate, but it’s only a temporary fix. “This legislation will expire on September 30, 2016. We need to continue working together to come up with a long-term water solution for California families.”  Congressman Cook Votes to Improve Job Opportunities Congressman Cook was pleased to support bipartisan legislation, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. This legislation is important for many Americans who are looking for work and for the employers who have job opportunities that remain unfilled due to the skills gap – meaning they have been unable to find workers with the training necessary for the job offered. Closing this gap will improve the lives of many American job seekers while helping our economy grow. The bill, which was signed into law, modernizes and improves existing federal workforce development programs, helps workers attain skills for 21st century jobs, and provides support to people with disabilities to enter and remain in competitive, integrated job settings. District UpdateMiddle School Students Win Big at Regional Competition Students from Mesa View Middle School took home an award after competing in the First Lego League Southern California Regional Championship. The students were up against 56 other teams from southern California at LegoLand. Students had to qualify for the competition. Teams earned their spots in by winning tournaments against 400 other regional teams. Teams were judged on robot design, core values, project, and game board competition. Mesa View had two teams, and Mustangs 1 was up for recognition in both Project and Core Values after all rounds were finished. The students created, and ran, a Coding Club for kids. There, they taught their classmates how to build their own websites. Mustangs 1 team members also showed they were able to work together, while having fun. The students even created a pledge to be good and respectful teammates. All of the team’s hard work was rewarded when they were called up to the stage to at the end of the competition to receive the first place Core Values Inspiration Award. Congratulations to these wonderful students from Mesa View Middle School. Picture courtesy of the Yucaipa News Mirror.   Volunteers Needed For Bird Count Attention bird watchers and nature lovers! On Sunday, December 28 volunteers will meet at Joshua Tree National Park. The group will meet at Indian Cove Ranger Station or the West Entrance Station. The event will start at 7 AM and wrap up at 5 PM. Volunteers should bring lunch, water, binoculars, field guides, and warm clothing. For more information call (760)366-8913. USDA Food Giveaway Yucca Valley Church of the Nazarene will host a USDA Food Giveaway on Friday, December 12, at 56248 Buena Vista Drive. It will start at 10 AM and wrap up at 12 PM. For more information contact Michael Sereno at (760)365-7819 or msereno2004@yahoo.com. Holiday Event The Victor Valley Rescue Mission is hosting a Christmas Toy Giveaway for kids under 12 years old on Friday, December 19. The event will include a Santa’s Village, crafts, games, and live music. Registration is required for the toy giveaway. It will be held at 14800 Seventh St from 11 AM to 2 PM. For registration information call (760) 955-5958. Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map Released  The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has presented the Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) panels and Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report components for San Bernardino County and Incorporated Areas for the community to review. You can view the map here. Veterans Corner  My office is here to help you. If you or someone you know needs help with the Veterans' Administration please call my Apple Valley District Office at (760)247-1815. Veterans Healthcare Living Assessment A powerful new tool can help Veterans better understand their health habits and overall health. It can also provide advice on ways to improve their well-being. It’s called the “HealtheLiving Assessment,” or, “HLA.” The HLA asks each user a set of personalized, confidential questions. The answers are used to calculate the Veteran’s “health age” and risk for disease. It takes about 20 minutes to complete and is available online 24/7. The tool is now available at the My HealtheVet website. Call for Landlords Willing to House Homeless Veterans California is home to nearly 2 million Veterans, of which an estimated 19,000 are homeless. The Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino in collaboration with community based organizations throughout the county is developing a list of landlords interested in helping the Housing Authority and the local Loma Linda Veterans Administration (VA) house homeless veterans. This initiative is supported in part by traditional VA Supportive Housing (VASH) vouchers. Veterans pay about 30 percent of their net income and the voucher covers the rest of the contract rent. The list of landlords will be given directly to VASH voucher recipients as well as community organizations working directly with and supporting veterans that are in receipt of other funds to support permanent housing or who have their own means but are receiving services to help them transition back into private market housing. For more information contact Becky Murillo at vash@hacsb.com or by phone at (909)890-5308. Discounts for Veterans Outback Steakhouse is honoring all active and retired military personnel with a 15 percent discount through December 31. You must show a valid military ID. Great clips is offering free haircuts for veterans through December 31. Long Trail Home Raises Money for Veterans Matt Littrell, a Marine, who served two tours in Iraq during his enlistment is raising money for the Semper Fi Fund. The program provides immediate financial assistance and lifetime support to post 9/11 wounded, critically ill, and injured members of all branches of the U.S. armed forces and their families. Littrell rode his horse more than 2700 miles from Camp Lejeune, NC to Camp Pendleton, CA, and finished his journey on December 1. He dubbed the trip the, “Long Trail Home,” and began the journey on Veterans Day. Littrell has raised more than $80,000 for the Semper Fi Fund. The founder of GoDaddy has promised to match all money raised by the Semper Fi Fund until December 31, up to $5 million. For more information about the ""Long Trail Home,"" click here. Image courtesy of The Long Trail Home Facebook Page.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kevinmccarthy.house.gov//media-center/in-the-news/congressional-democrats-ignore-california-drought,Congressional Democrats ignore California drought,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Kevin McCarthy,M001165,kevinmccarthy.house.gov,,,legacy,"Despite last-minute attempts by Central California Republicans to get some form of legislation passed to address how California manages water and to avert another disaster, Democrats in Congress, many of those California Democrats, blocked the attempt and now any legislation dealing with the drought in this state is dead until well into next year.   Hanford Republican David Valadao, joined by Reps. Devin Nunes, Kevin McCarthy and Democrat Jim Costa, tried to get some language passed in the final days of the Congressional year which would have reduced restrictions on sending water to cities and farmers in the Central Valley. Those restrictions this past year resulted in most farmers getting little water, created a shortage of water for residents in Lindsay and did millions of dollars in damage to agriculture in the Valley.   Supporters of the legislation feared that if nothing was done this year, a repeat of last year could be catastrophic this coming summer. If water is not made available this summer, then hundreds of thousands of acres of farmland will be lost, millions of trees will die and thousands of farm jobs will be eliminated.   Still, that concern was lost on California Sen. Barbara Boxer, Rep. Nancy Pelosi and many other Northern California Democrats who have hijacked the state water system to be used for fish rather than people and farming.   Missing from the legislation was any help for Tulare County and its residents whose wells went dry this summer because of the lack of water. Again, despite assurances made by President Obama when he visited the Valley early last spring and pledged to help, no help is on the way. In fact, the president said he would veto the legislation if it was passed and Gov. Brown also said he opposed the help for farmers.   We hope the Republican Congress next year sends the president a much stronger bill to address the problem. The time to compromise with environmentalists is over.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://kevinmccarthy.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rep-mccarthy-historic-drought-needs-emergency-action-now,Rep. McCarthy: Historic Drought Needs Emergency Action Now,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Kevin McCarthy,M001165,kevinmccarthy.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Kevin McCarthy spoke on the House floor in favor of a bipartisan, emergency drought relief bill for California:   TRANSCRIPT: “Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Before I begin, I want to thank the distinguished Chairman for his service to this House and this country. And you’ll be greatly missed. Mr. Speaker, I also want to thank those that have worked diligently on this bill: Congressman Valadao (CA-21). He understands the need, and we’re not here today because we haven’t thought that we might have this problem. I’ve sat and stood in this well before with Devin Nunes (CA-22) looking ahead trying to be prepared so we can have water throughout California.   “Do you realize four years ago we had 170 percent of snow pack, but only 80 percent of the water was allocated to come down through the Valley. The Valley not just feeds California, not just feeds the nation, but feeds the world. When the Valley does not get water, the prices of food goes up to for all.  But you know what’s even more important? Those that go out of work.   “I’ve watched many elected officials come to this well and talk about unemployment, say unemployment is below six percent. Let me tell you what unemployment is throughout the Valley today. There are some cities that have more than 30 percent unemployment. The number one factor: water. So what does the world look like today even though not just this Congress, but the Congress before it moved legislation to deal with this issue? We are now at the worst drought in 1,200-years. Twelve-Hundred. Much longer than the entire life of this nation.    “So if we're at this time, why do we bring this bill before us? I think we should have honesty in this bill. This is not the bill I would write. This is not the bill I would bring forward. This is a bipartisan bill where people on both sides of the aisle sat down, and we said we need a temporary bill that lives within these means. So do we change endangered species? No, we do not.   “What does this bill do? It says in the rainy season, when the floodwaters are high, can we not move water down through the Valley? That's what this bill does. It also gives the safeguard that, if the fish are harmed, to stop. Does this bill go on forever? No, it goes on the length to September or to the length of what the governor has declared within the drought. Now, I know government cannot make it rain, but government can stop the government policies that pick fish over people.   “Government can prepare ahead of time that if we're going to have a rainy season coming that we allow the water to have the best use of where it goes, that it protects the fish while at the same time allocates water to the Valley so everyone wins in the process. That's why it was bipartisan. That's why we sat together. That's why it's temporary. That's why this bill is brought before us today.   “I'd like to thank everybody on both sides of the aisle that worked for it, but what's unfortunate, some people will say things that it's not. The most important thing we should do in this House is make sure fairness is provided. I think the greatest fairness that should be provided is being prepared for when water comes. But what's more even important, looking at the faces of the 30 percent unemployed, looking at the faces throughout that Valley and saying it does not have to be that way. Government can make a difference if both sides would work together as we craft this bill, and I yield back.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://lamalfa.house.gov//media-center/in-the-news/california-farm-bureau-federation-update-house-bill-brings-new-attention-to,California Farm Bureau Federation Update: House Bill Brings New Attention to Drought Issues,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Doug LaMalfa,L000578,lamalfa.house.gov,,,legacy,"December 10, 2014 - By Dave Kranz - A vote in the U.S. House of Representatives this week renewed discussion of California drought relief in Washington, D.C., and set the stage for the likelihood of additional legislation in the new Congress next year. Legislation known as the California Emergency Drought Relief Act of 2014 was introduced in the House last week by Rep. David Valadao, R-Hanford, and cosponsored initially by six other California representatives: Kevin McCarthy, R-Bakersfield; Ken Calvert, R-Corona; Jim Costa, D-Fresno; Doug LaMalfa, R-Richvale; Tom McClintock, R-Elk Grove; and Devin Nunes, R-Tulare. The full House passed the bill on Tuesday. The representatives said they introduced the bill after negotiations with the Senate on a long-term drought-relief package ended last month. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., who authored a Senate drought bill that passed in May, had been involved in discussions with California House members in efforts to reconcile her bill with earlier legislation adopted by the House. On Nov. 20, Feinstein announced the negotiations had been suspended, saying it had become clear to her that participants in the talks would be ""unable to present an agreed-upon proposal before Congress adjourns this year."" The sponsors of the Emergency Drought Relief Act said their bill contained short-term provisions that had been agreed upon in the negotiations on the long-term legislation, and that Congress needed to act immediately. ""I will not let this year end without exhausting every possible option to bring relief to the Central Valley,"" Valadao said. The House vote of 230-182 sent the bill to the Senate, but political observers said the Senate appeared unlikely to act on the measure—leaving the question of California drought relief to the new, Republican-led Congress that will be sworn in next year. California Farm Bureau Federation President Paul Wenger welcomed introduction and passage of the House bill, saying it kept the impact of the California drought ""front and center"" in the nation's capital. ""We hope this legislation prompts continued discussions in Congress and elsewhere, about what the federal government can and should do to make our water system work more efficiently for the benefit of people, the environment and the economy,"" Wenger said. The House bill would direct federal water and fisheries agencies to act within the parameters of existing laws and regulations to maximize the ability to capture high water flows during storms. Its provisions would remain in effect until the end of Gov. Jerry Brown's existing drought proclamation or the end of the next water year, Sept. 30, 2016. Wenger noted that even during drought years such as those California has experienced, there are strong storms that generate significant runoff. ""Too often during the past three years, that runoff has been allowed to flow unabated to the ocean,"" he said. ""Had we been able to store more of that runoff, we could have eased at least some of the severe water shortages our farms and communities face today."" December and January typically represent the wettest months of the California rainy season, the bill's supporters noted, and both the federal Central Valley Project and State Water Project need to be allowed to capture water when it becomes available. In a statement issued prior to the House vote, McCarthy, who serves as House majority leader, referred to a report published last week by the American Geophysical Union, which used tree-ring studies to estimate the last three years have been the driest period California has experienced in at least 1,200 years. McCarthy said government policies have worsened the impacts of the drought. ""Ill-conceived policies have continued to prioritize the well-being of fish above people, meaning precious water is released into the ocean rather than directed to our local communities in need,"" he said. Costa said the provisions in the House bill would provide ""one more tool to bring relief to the San Joaquin Valley,"" which he said ""has suffered far too long because of our broken water system,"" while Nunes pointed to the cities, towns, rural homes, schools and churches that are ""running dry."" (Dave Kranz is editor of Ag Alert.)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://mikethompson.house.gov//newsroom/press-releases/thompson-introduces-small-business-healthcare-relief-act,THOMPSON INTRODUCES SMALL BUSINESS HEALTHCARE RELIEF ACT,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Mike Thompson,T000460,mikethompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA) has introduced H.R. 5860, the bipartisan Small Business Healthcare Relief Act with Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana). This legislation fixes an existing Treasury Department guidance under the Affordable Care Act that limits the use of health reimbursement arrangements (HRA’s) for small businesses, limiting choice and affordability for healthcare consumers. “Since the landmark health care reform legislation was passed, we’ve focused too much time trying to undermine the law, and far too little time working to build on its important reforms so that all Americans can afford health insurance,” said Thompson. “This bipartisan legislation moves past party politics, fixes an important part of the health care law, and improves choice and affordability. By building on the reforms made in the Affordable Care Act, like this legislation does, we can make sure every American can afford to go to the doctor – and that’s what matters.” On September 13, 2013, Treasury issued guidance disallowing businesses from using HRA’s as a tax-free means to reimburse employees, stating these arrangements were disqualified under Affordable Care Act’s annual dollar cap. The Small Business Healthcare Relief Act restores flexibility and choice into the marketplace by: Ensuring that small businesses are allowed to use pre-tax dollars to give employees a defined contribution. Allowing employees to use these funds as an HRA to purchase health coverage on the individual market, as well as for qualified out-of-pocket medical expenses. Protecting small business employers from being unnecessarily financially penalized for providing this option to employees. The legislation is supported by the United States Chamber of Commerce, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB), the National Association for the Self-Employed, and the Coalition for Affordable Healthcare (CAHC). Support letters from these organizations are attached. The legislation has been referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means, on which Thompson and Boustany serve.   Congressman Mike Thompson is proud to represent California’s 5th Congressional District, which includes all or part of Contra Costa, Lake, Napa, Solano and Sonoma Counties.  He is a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Rep. Thompson is also a member of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition and chairs the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Wine Caucus.   # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pelosi.house.gov//news/press-releases/pelosi-13-million-americans-health-security-at-risk-in-baseless-lawsuit-over-the,Pelosi: 13 Million Americans Health Security at Risk in Baseless Lawsuit Over the Affordable Care Act,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Nancy Pelosi,P000197,pelosi.house.gov,,,legacy,"San Francisco – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi today released the following statement on a new report from Energy and Commerce Committee Democrats revealing that 13 million could lose tax credits to help pay for insurance coverage should the Supreme Court rule against the Obama Administration in the politically-motivated lawsuit of King v Burwell.  “Today’s report verifies what American families already know: the Affordable Care Act is working and helping families afford the coverage they need and deserve.  Yet, Republicans and other opponents of the law want to strip some 13 million Americans of the premium tax credits that keep their health coverage affordable.  “It is very disappointing that some ACA opponents refuse to support Americans who simply want access to affordable health coverage.  This lawsuit is part of increasingly desperate efforts to destroy the health security of millions of American families who owe their health coverage to the Affordable Care Act.   “The continuing obsession with dismantling the Affordable Care Act threatens the health care of millions of students, workers, women and families.  It is long past time for opponents of the law to cease their assault on the health security of the American people, withdraw their radical suits, and recover their common sense. “I am very confident that the Supreme Court will issue a ruling upholding the ACA and rejecting the baseless arguments of the challengers in this lawsuit.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://rohrabacher.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rohrabacher-farr-hail-medical-marijuana-amendment-in-funding-bill,"Rohrabacher, Farr Hail Medical Marijuana Amendment in Funding Bill",2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Dana Rohrabacher,R000409,rohrabacher.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – Reps. Dana Rohrabacher and Sam Farr, both Californians, on Monday saluted congressional colleagues for including their co-sponsored medical marijuana amendment in final passage over the weekend of the government funding legislation, now on its way to President Obama’s desk. The amendment would require the federal government to respect state sovereignty over medical marijuana, depriving the Department of Justice of taxpayers’ dollars to prevent states from carrying out their medical marijuana laws. Thirty-two states and the District of Columbia are listed in the amendment as having legalized marijuana or its ingredients for medical purposes. The bipartisan amendment had a dozen co-signers – six Republicans and six Democrats. Rohrabacher, a Republican who represents coastal Orange County, said, “The enactment of this legislation will mark the first time in decades that the federal government has curtailed its oppressive prohibition of marijuana and has instead taken an approach to respect the many states that have permitted the use of medical marijuana to some degree.” Farr, a Democrat who represents California’s Central Coast, said, “When the House first passed this measure back in May we made headlines; today we made history,” said Farr. “The federal government will finally respect the decisions made by the majority of states that passed medical marijuana laws. This is a great day for common sense because now our federal dollars will be spent more wisely on prosecuting criminals and not patients.” The provision will be effective throughout Fiscal Year 2015 and will likely be considered again next year for inclusion in the Fiscal Year 2016 appropriations bill. “This is a victory for so many,” said Rohrabacher, “including scores of our wounded veterans, who have found marijuana to be an important medicine for some of the ailments they suffer, such as PTSD, epilepsy, and MS.”                                                                                   #######################",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0e9a7396-8e52-43ca-8eef-b71ff37ca41c,Feinstein Welcomes Tax Extenders,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington—Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today voted in favor of the tax extenders legislation, which extends expired business and individual tax provisions through the end of this year. Feinstein released the following statement: “With passage of this legislation comes much-needed certainty for taxpayers as they prepare to file their 2014 returns, and I believe American businesses and individuals are better off as a result. Whether it is supporting small businesses as they create jobs, farmers as they invest in essential equipment or homeowners and working families struggling to make ends meet, this legislation is positive for many areas of our economy. “In particular, I am pleased to see the extension of the research tax credit, from which many innovative California firms benefit, as well as provisions that support investments already made in wind, biodiesel and other renewable energy sources, a critical aspect of combatting climate change.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6e7bbe25-80fa-4fb5-b127-5635cd41d8c9,Feinstein Announces Confirmation of Haywood Gilliam as District Judge,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington—Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today announced the confirmation of Haywood S. Gilliam, Jr., to be a U.S. district judge for the Northern District of California. Gilliam was nominated on August 18, 2014, by President Obama on the recommendation of Senator Feinstein. He received the highest rating of “well qualified” from a substantial majority of the American Bar Association’s review committee. “Haywood Gilliam has an outstanding record as a federal prosecutor in the Northern District and a private practitioner,” said Senator Feinstein. “He began his career as a law clerk to Judge Thelton Henderson on this same court, and I am confident he will serve the Northern District with great distinction for many years to come.” The Northern District, which frequently hears major technology cases, has a substantial caseload. According to the Judicial Conference of the United States, the court has averaged 632 weighted filings per judgeship over the past four years, which is 20 percent above the average caseload and well above the threshold for a “judicial emergency.” Criminal felony cases take 47 percent longer to complete than the national average, and civil cases take 19 percent longer than the national average to go to trial. Background on Haywood S. Gilliam, Jr. Haywood S. Gilliam, Jr., graduated magna cum laude from Yale in 1991 and earned his law degree from Stanford Law School in 1994. He was an article editor for the Stanford Law Review. He clerked for U.S. District Judge Thelton Henderson in the Northern District of California from 1994 to 1995. From 1996 to 1999, he was an associate at the law firm of McCutchen, Doyle, Brown, & Enersen. From 1999 through 2006, he served as an assistant United States attorney in the Northern District of California, including as chief of the securities fraud section from 2005 to 2006. In 2006, he rejoined his prior law firm, then called Bingham McCutchen, as a partner. In 2009, he became a partner at Covington & Burling, where he is vice-chair of the firm’s white collar defense & investigations practice group. He has been active in the Bay Area legal community, serving on the district court’s merit selection panel for magistrate judges, the Stanford Law School Board of Visitors, and the board of the Bar Association of San Francisco. He has also been a lawyer representative to the Ninth Circuit’s Judicial Conference. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-lee-and-more-than-35-other-members-of-congress-call-for-us-participation-in-summit-of-the-americas-and-engagement-with-cuba,Congresswoman Lee and More Than 35 Other Members of Congress Call for U.S. Participation in Summit of the Americas and Engagement with Cuba,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Barbara Lee,L000551,lee.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.16.14 Congresswoman Lee and More Than 35 Other Members of Congress Call for U.S. Participation in Summit of the Americas and Engagement with Cuba Washington, DC Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee and more than 35 other Members of Congress wrote to President Obama to encourage U.S. participation in the 7th Summit of the Americas and to change current U.S. policy toward Cuba. On the value of the summit, the letter reads: the U.S. will have the rare opportunity to engage diplomatically with all of Latin America on our shared regional challenges. Regional diplomatic summits, like the Summit of the Americas, are critical to advancing our regional economic, national security and democracy promotion goals, said Congresswoman Barbara Lee. Summit participation sends a strong message that democracy, human rights and a strong civil society are key shared values of our hemisphere. Cuba is expected to participate in the summit and the signers believe that the summit provides an opportunity to take action towards fundamental changes in U.S. policy towards Cuba. For more than five decades, U.S. policy towards Cuba has been an unpopular failure, said Congresswoman Lee. Yet, this policy has continued at great cost to our economy, the personal freedoms of Americans and our democracy promotion goals. The Summit of the Americas has the opportunity to be a turning point in Western Hemisphere geopolitics; I hope the Administration seizes this opportunity to start ending fifty plus years of failed policy, added Congresswoman Lee. Read the letter here. ### Congresswoman Lee is a member of the Appropriations and Budget Committees, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip's Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity. Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bera.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/bera-commends-confirmation-of-murthy-as-us-surgeon-general,Bera commends confirmation of Murthy as U.S. Surgeon General,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Ami Bera,B001287,bera.house.gov,,,legacy,"After weeks of delay, the U.S. Senate today confirmed Dr. Vivek Murthy to be the next U.S. Surgeon General. Congressman Ami Bera, M.D. offered the following comment: “I’m thrilled the Senate has confirmed Dr. Vivek Murthy as our next surgeon general. As a practicing physician and instructor at Brigham and Women's Hospital, a champion of innovation in medicine, and a leader in the medical community, Dr. Murthy is an excellent choice for this role and his appointment is historic for the Indian American community. As a doctor myself, I also know that the American people will benefit from having a trusted physician leader to help them navigate the complex medical issues we face today.” Rep. Bera and several of his congressional colleagues sent a letter to the Senate leadership in both parties urging Dr. Murthy's confirmation. You may read that letter here. Congressman Ami Bera, M.D. represents Sacramento County. Born and raised in California, Bera is a physician and the only Indian American currently serving in Congress. He’s fighting to rebuild an economy that works for middle class families and to reduce our country’s debt in a responsible way. One of Bera’s first acts in Congress was to help lead the effort to pass the No Budget No Pay Act, which says if members of Congress don’t pass a budget, they don’t get paid. As a leader of the No Labels' Problem Solvers, he’s working with people from both parties to find bipartisan solutions to our nation’s challenges. He and his wife Janine live in Elk Grove with their daughter Sydra. For more updates on Rep. Bera follow @RepBera on Twitter, like Congressman Bera on Facebook, or visit https://www.bera.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://chu.house.gov/immigration-accountability-executive-action-what-you-need-know,Immigration Accountability Executive Action: What you need to know,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Judy Chu,C001080,chu.house.gov,,,legacy,"On November 20, 2014, President Obama announced his plan to allow undocumented individuals to come forward and apply for protection from deportation and work authorization. The program has not officially started and applications are not available yet, but you can begin preparing now. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) expects to accept applications within six months. Here's what we know about the new programs: Executive action expanded the existing Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program for immigrants who came to the U.S. as children in the following ways: Those who entred the U.S. before January 1, 2010 and meet all other DACA requirements are now eligible, regardless of how old they are today Going forward, DACA relief will be granted for three years As of November 20, 2014, you are eligible for DACA if you: Came to the U.S. before reaching your 16th birthday and have no lawful status; Have continuously residded in the U.S. before January 1, 2010, through the present time; Entered without inspection before June 15, 2012, or your lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012 Are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a general education development (GED) certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed  Forces; and Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three or more misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or personal safety. Executive action created a new program, Deferred Action for Parental Accountability (DAPA), which will benefit parents of U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents. The DAPA program requires: Parents to have continuous residence in the U.S. since January 1, 2010; Are the parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent resident born on or before November 20, 2014; Are not an enforcement priority for removal from the U.S. pursuant to the Department of Homeland Security’s enforcement priorities published on November 20, 2014. Can I apply now? No. Even if you may be eligible for these programs, you cannot apply for them yet! The government expects that it will start accepting applications for the expanded DACA program approximately 90 days following the President’s November 20, 2014 announcement.  And the government expects to be accepting  DAPA applications approximately 180 days following the President’s announcement. How can I get ready? If you know someone who is in immigration detention and is eligible for one of these programs, advise them to identify themselves to their case officer, or the ICE Information Line at 888-351-4024, and explain that they are eligible for one of these new programs. Beware of notarios and immigration fraud.  Contact only a qualified immigration lawyer or accredited representative for your case. Click here for helpful information on reporting notario fraud (https://www.stopnotariofraud.org/) If you believe you may be eligble, begin preparing now by gathering documents that prove: That you were in the U.S. on Novemeber 20, 2014 That you have been in the U.S. since January 1, 2010 That you have a U.S. citizen or lawful permament resident son or daughter Get proof of who you are, such as a passport from your home country and birth certificate with a photo ID See the top 10 ways you can prepare for Executive Action",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://lowenthal.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398553,Congressman Lowenthal Secures $56M For California STEM and Youth Education Programs,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Alan Lowenthal,L000579,lowenthal.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Alan Lowenthal has helped secure a collective $56 million in funding for the STARBASE and Sunburst Youth Challenge education programs, both of which operate programs at the Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) in Los Alamitos. The funding was included in Congress’s $1.1 trillion fiscal year 2015 funding package as part of a request by the Congressman. The House on Thursday and the Senate on Saturday passed the funding package, which now awaits an expected signature from President Obama. Of the total $56 million, $25 million was included for the STARBASE program, which engages local fifth-grade elementary students by exposing them to STEM subjects through an inquiry based curriculum. In the 47th District, the STARBASE Youth Program Facility at the JFTB serves nearly 4,000 students a year. The goal of the program is to motivate fifth grade students to explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) as they continue their education. The academies serve students that are historically under-represented in STEM: students who live in inner cities or rural locations, are socio-economically disadvantaged, low in academic performance, or have a disability. “Our 21st century economy requires 21st century skill sets. Investing in our children’s education in the  STEM fields will make them better prepared for the job market and equipped for success,” Congressman Lowenthal said. Also as part of the $56 million, Congressman Lowenthal helped secure a $31 million increase in 2015 funding for the Sunburst program, which is one of California’s National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Programs (NGYCP) and is located on the JFTB in Los Alamitos. The mission of the NGYCP is to help redirect the lives of 16-18 year old high school dropouts and at-risk youth, producing graduates with the values, life skills, education, and self-discipline necessary to succeed as productive citizens.  The academy offers a 22 week residential program with military-style training that emphasizes the development of academic, cooperation, and leadership skills together with improvements in confidence, pride, and self-esteem. Students who take part in the program obtain 55 high school curriculum credits. “I have been an educator for much of my adult life, so I appreciate programs such as STARBASE and Sunburst. These programs at the JFTB are doing great work for our community, and we must continue to prepare our youth for our changing economy and help them prepare for their future,” Congressman Lowenthal said. Ultimately, Congressman Lowenthal decided to vote ‘no’ on the House funding bill despite significant work and support on many items contained within it, including the STARBASE and Sunburst funds. “Last minute additions to the bill such as attacks on the Dodd-Frank consumer financial protections and a dangerous expansion of campaign contribution limits to unheard of levels made it impossible for me to vote ‘yes’ with a clear conscience. I believe these additions to the bill will hurt people in the 47th District more than the rest of the bill will help them.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://pelosi.house.gov//news/pelosi-updates/cromnibus,CRomnibus,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Nancy Pelosi,P000197,pelosi.house.gov,,,legacy,"#CRomnibus With the clock ticking for Congress to avert another government shutdown, House Republicans buried a provision in the spending bill that would weaken Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and allow big banks to gamble with the American people’s money. The package also includes a provision that would multiply the amount of money wealthy individuals can give to a political party by ten times.  This legislation offers brazen giveaways to the wealthy and well connected, all at the expense of the American people. It is destructive to middle class families and to the practice of our democracy. That is why I refused to place my name - and the name of every hard working San Franciscan - next to this bill and voted against this legislation. Know that I will continue the fight to ensure that we build an economy that works for everyone, not just the privileged few.  Calling San Francisco Home The announcement yesterday by Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Director Mel Watt to fund the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, a permanent fund that was enacted during my time as Speaker of the House to provide state support for the construction, preservation, and rehabilitation of affordable housing for low and moderate income families, will improve the lives and security of millions across our nation. With the eighth highest shortage of affordable housing in California, San Francisco will benefit from new and rehabilitated affordable rental homes that the Trust Fund will help finance over the next decade. American families should not be forced to choose between having a place to sleep or providing food, health care, and other basic needs for their children. Thanks to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, hardworking families across the nation will no longer struggle to find a safe, warm and clean place to call home. #3DaysLeft San Franciscans have just three days left to enroll, renew or change plans through Covered California, California’s health insurance marketplace, in time for coverage to take effect on January 1st, 2015.  Currently enrolled in a Covered California plan? Visit Covered California by December 15th to review all plans and prices offered to this year. Interested in keeping your current plan? Update your information by December 15th to ensure you are receiving the maximum financial assistance available. New to Covered California? Open enrollment runs until February 15th. Covered California makes it easy for uninsured individuals and small businesses to shop for, compare, and purchase health insurance. It’s your health care, made simple. To follow Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi on Twitter, please click here. Emergency Preparedness As San Franciscans recover from the damage left by yesterday’s storm, we are reminded that after a natural disaster, it may be several days before vital services, like electricity and running water, are restored and it is important to have an emergency plan in place. With the help of SF72, San Francisco’s hub for emergency preparedness, you can sign up to receive updates and information should an emergency occur. You can also find out how to prepare for an emergency and make an emergency plan. These helpful resources will help ensure that you and your loved ones remain safe should an emergency occur.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=63ec370d-5efc-4c24-b3fe-75d76c4c57a7,Feinstein Applauds Confirmation of Dr. Vivek Murthy,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington—Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today released the following statement after the Senate confirmed Dr. Vivek Murthy to be the U.S. surgeon general: “Today the Senate put public health over special interests by voting to confirm Dr. Vivek Murthy, a highly-qualified physician and public-health expert, to be the next surgeon general. The United States faces serious public health challenges and we need a top doctor on the job to help address them. “Dr. Murthy has committed to reducing obesity and tobacco-related diseases, expanding access to treatment for mental illness, increasing vaccination rates and focusing on prevention and wellness in our communities. He has also rightly acknowledged the effects of gun violence on public health, which are seen daily by the thousands of health care professionals who treat victims of gun violence in emergency rooms across the country. “I’m confident that Dr. Murthy will serve our country well and help Americans lead healthier lives.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=77cd7b92-f224-445e-af8d-d75d7ce34e46,Feinstein Statement on Passage of Omnibus Funding Bill,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington— Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today expressed support for the omnibus spending bill that funds the federal government through fiscal year 2015. The bill, which has now been passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives, will go to the president’s desk for signature. Senator Feinstein released the following statement: “Legislating is about the art of the possible and compromise. So while I did not support everything in this spending bill, I recognized it is the result of long, difficult and bipartisan negotiations. It is not the bill I would have written, and I am disappointed that important priorities I care about were not included and other provisions I strongly oppose were. However, on the whole I believe it is important that this got done to provide budgetary certainty for the federal government. “This bill included smart investments in California’s future, such as modernizing our transportation infrastructure, supporting California’s veterans and pursuing projects to address the state’s historic drought. I’m glad California’s priorities were included. “I also want to commend Chairwoman Mikulski for her fortitude and perseverance in negotiating this final bill in the face of many obstacles. Thanks to the efforts of her and her staff, we are able to avoid the detrimental cycle of continuing resolutions and begin to get the budgeting process in Congress back to normal.” Dodd-Frank: “While I supported the bill as a whole, I strongly opposed the provisions that roll back critical Dodd-Frank taxpayer protections and dramatically expand limits to campaign contribution to political party committees. The historic Dodd-Frank legislation created a much-needed national regulatory regime for the derivatives market for the first time. Four years ago, I was proud to fight hard and pass that legislation, allowing us to protect taxpayers from further bank bailouts But now I am appalled that we are again opening the door to the trading of risky derivatives backed by a taxpayer guarantee. “Furthermore, it is disturbing that such a major revision was included in a must-pass funding bill. Any changes to our strong regulatory regime deserve a robust congressional debate. If we had one, I am confident it would have been made clear to my colleagues and to the American public that this pulls us in the wrong direction and that it is simply way too dangerous to pursue. “We cannot subject our country to the same lax financial regulation that almost brought down our financial system in 2008, and our constituents do not deserve to again shoulder the burden of unnecessary risk.” Energy and Water: “As Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water, I am proud that the bill funds essential federal activities at the Department of Energy, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation. However, I was deeply disappointed that a pilot nuclear waste program I authored with Senator Alexander was not included. The dangers posed by unsecured nuclear waste are simply too high to ignore any longer.” Key projects and provisions for California: $50 million for the Bureau of Reclamation to address the drought in California and other western states, through direct, immediate actions to extend limited water supplies, within existing authorization. $500 million for four major public transit projects: $100 million for Los Angeles’ Purple Line Subway, for the first of a three phase expansion to connect Union Station to Westwood and the West Los Angeles VA campus. $100 million for Los Angeles’ Regional Connector, a two-mile underground project connecting the Gold and Blue subway lines. $150 million for San Francisco’s Third Street Light Rail/Central Subway, a project to connect Bayshore in the south to Chinatown in the north. $150 million for the BART extension to Silicon Valley, a 10.15-mile project to extend BART from Fremont to Berryessa Road in San Jose. $324 million for Veterans Affairs construction projects in California. This includes funds to retrofit seismically-unsafe Veterans Affairs facilities in Los Angeles, Long Beach and San Diego as well as adding additional homeless veteran housing at the West Los Angeles campus. $315 million for the expansion and modernization of the San Ysidro and Calexico Land Ports of Entry along California’s border with Mexico. This funding will finish construction at San Ysidro and pay for the first of two phases at Calexico. These projects will allow more efficient and secure processing of travelers, thereby increasing tourism and facilitating economic growth. $5 million to develop a West Coast earthquake early warning system. This initiative will help save lives, reduce property damage and protect critical infrastructure. $30.5 million increase for Food and Drug Administration to ensure that Californians have access to safe food, including a $27.5 million increase to implement new food safety standards for produce, imported foods, and animal feed as well as a $3 million increase for the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System to track drug-resistant foodborne pathogens. A one-year extension of a temporary judgeship in Los Angeles to ensure that Californians have timely access to the judicial system in California’s Central District, the tenth-busiest in the nation. Key provisions Feinstein successfully opposed: House-backed policy riders that would have crippled California’s High Speed Rail project. House-backed policy riders that would have further weakened enforcement of federal gun laws, particularly along the Mexican border. House-backed policy riders that would have significantly impeded federal regulation of carbon emissions from power plants. Truck Safety: Feinstein expressed disappointment that the omnibus contained provisions to weaken truck safety regulations, providing waivers for larger trucks in three states and suspending an essential component of the anti-driver-fatigue rules. Feinstein opposed this change to the truck driver fatigue rules, known as hours-of-service, when it was first offered in the Appropriations Committee by Senator Collins. She was also prepared to offer a floor amendment with Senator Booker to reverse this change and keep the current hours of service rules in effect if the transportation section of the omnibus had been considered independently. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=ce3c4a73-2d95-4204-95e5-27072d0a6f56,"Feinstein, Grassley Bill to Combat Transnational Drug Trafficking Passes Senate",2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington—The Senate today passed a bill introduced by Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) to help combat transnational drug trafficking. The Transnational Drug Trafficking Act (S. 706) is cosponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). The bill would provide the Department of Justice with new tools to prosecute drug traffickers from foreign countries. Specifically, it will help the department build extradition cases on drug kingpins from the Andean region, which includes Colombia and Peru. Kingpins from these countries often use Mexican drug trafficking organizations as intermediaries to ship illegal narcotics to the United States. “This bill gives law enforcement necessary tools to reduce the supply of drugs crossing our borders,” said Senator Feinstein, chair of the U.S. Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control. “The federal government needs the authority to aggressively pursue transnational criminal organizations and drug kingpins to reduce the flow of illegal drugs into the United States from foreign countries.” “Since drug cartels are continually evolving, this legislation ensures that our criminal laws keep pace,” said Senator Grassley, co-chair of the U.S. Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control. “This legislation closes a loophole abused by drug traffickers who intend for drugs to end up in the United States but supply them through an intermediary.” The Transnational Drug Trafficking Act, S. 706: Establishes penalties for extraterritorial drug trafficking activity when individuals have reasonable cause to believe that illegal drugs will be trafficked into the United States. Ensures current penalties apply to chemical producers from other countries (including producers of pseudoephedrine used for methamphetamine) that illegally ship precursor chemicals into the U.S. knowing these chemicals will be used to make illegal drugs. This bill supports the Obama administration’s “Strategy to Combat Transnational Organized Crime”. Representatives Tom Marino (R-Pa.) and Pedro Pierluisi (D-Puerto Rico) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives, but it was not approved before the House adjourned. Senators Feinstein and Grassley plan to reintroduce the bill in the next congress. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/legislators-call-on-hhs-to-end-discriminatory-blood-donation-policy-implement-risk-based-policies,"Legislators Call on HHS to End Discriminatory Blood Donation Policy, Implement Risk-Based Policies",2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Barbara Lee,L000551,lee.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.15.14 Legislators Call on HHS to End Discriminatory Blood Donation Policy, Implement Risk-Based Policies Washington D.C. -Today, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), and Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), and Representatives Mike Quigley (D-Ill.) and Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), led a letter with 75 of their congressional colleagues calling on Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Burwell to replace the outdated and discriminatory lifetime ban on blood donations from men who have sex with men (MSM) with a policy based on individual risk factors. The legislators expressed deep concerns with the recent recommendations made by the HHS Advisory Committee on Blood & Tissue Safety & Availability (ACBTSA). The full text of the letter is availablehere. Under current regulations, MSM are banned from donating blood for life. AABB, the American Red Cross, America's Blood Centers, and the American Medical Association all agree that the ban is no longer scientifically justified. Last month, the ACBTSA voted to replace the lifetime deferral policy with a one-year deferral policy, contingent on the implementation of a blood safety surveillance system, while dismissing a risk-based policy. The legislators raised concerns about this proposal, writing, ""A one-year deferral policy, like a lifetime ban, is a categorical exclusion based solely on the sex of an individual's sexual partner - not his actual risk of carrying a transfusion-transmittable infection."" The legislators continued, ""The ACBTSA's proposed policy change would, in practice, leave that lifetime ban in place for the vast majority of MSM, even those who are healthy and low-risk. Both policies are discriminatory, and both approaches are unacceptable. Low-risk individuals who wish to donate blood and help to save lives should not be categorically excluded because of outdated stereotypes."" The legislators also urged HHS to consider the work of implementing an infection monitoring system separately from the MSM deferral policy. The legislators wrote, ""The ACBTSA's recommendation to hinge any change in the MSM blood donation policy to the establishment of a blood safety surveillance system is an arbitrary condition that will inevitably result in further unnecessary delays. To be clear, a comprehensive surveillance system for our blood supply is a critically important initiative to protect the blood supply from Hepatitis, HIV, and emerging diseases, and is long overdue...Years of HHS inaction on this issue is problematic, but so is the fact that ACBTSA has now suddenly chosen to make such a system a precondition of revising the donation policies specific to MSM."" The bicameral letter requests additional information from HHS regarding the timeline for reversing the lifetime deferral policy, actions being taken to work towards a risk-based deferral policy, and plans for implementing the long-overdue blood safety surveillance system. Read the full letterhere. ### Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://schiff.house.gov/news/press-releases/senator-feinstein-and-congressman-schiff-announce-major-federal-funding-for-west-coast-early-warning-system,Senator Feinstein and Congressman Schiff Announce Major Federal Funding for West Coast Early Warning System,2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Adam Schiff,S001150,schiff.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.15.14 Senator Feinstein and Congressman Schiff Announce Major Federal Funding for West Coast Early Warning System Pasadena, CA – Today, Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and Congressman Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) announced that Congress has included $5 million in FY 2015 funding bill, also known as the CROmnibus, for a West Coast Earthquake Early Warning System, the first time Congress has ever provided funding specifically for the system.  A limited system developed by Caltech, UC-Berkeley and University of Washington, in conjunction with the United State Geological Survey (USGS), has already been deployed and has proven that the early warning technology is sound. This $5 million in funding will allow those developing the statewide system to begin purchasing and installing additional sensors, build new stations, speed up the ShakeAlert system, and come closer to deploying comprehensive early earthquake warning coverage throughout earthquake prone regions of the West Coast.   “An earthquake early-warning system is essential to save lives, reduce property damage and protect critical infrastructure. This five million dollar federal investment is a down payment on building an integrated, state-wide system,” said Senator Feinstein. “These federal dollars are sorely needed, but more funding is still necessary to complete the system. While the state and private sector must contribute their fair share, I will continue to work with West Coast senators and representatives to prioritize federal funds for this life-saving project. We must get it done before the next major earthquake strikes.” “It’s absolutely critical that the West Coast implement and build out an earthquake early warning system to give us a heads up before the ‘big one’ hits, so we can save lives and protect infrastructure,” said Congressman Schiff. “This funding will help build out additional stations, speed up the ShakeAlert system, and make it more reliable in our highest priority areas – including Los Angeles and the Bay Area – and those critical few seconds or a minute of warning will allow people to seek cover, automatically slow or stop trains, and pause surgeries. This first phase of funding will allow the work to begin expanding the system, and we will continue to work to secure future funding along with our other federal, state and local partners.” ""We at Caltech applaud Congress for approving the impactful initial funding for an earthquake early warning system,"" said Thomas F. Rosenbaum, president of the California Institute of Technology. ""This vital step toward implementation wouldn't be possible without the leadership of the California congressional delegation.""  Earlier this year, Schiff led a group of 25 Members from California, Washington and Oregon in organizing a request that the committee fund an early earthquake warning system. Schiff’s letter requested additional funding for the Earthquake Hazards Program in USGS to kickstart the process of building out the early warning system so we can be ready for the next big quake.  The letter can be found here. Senator Feinstein was critical in securing the language in the Senate Appropriations bill.  The text in the bill reads: Funding for Natural Hazards programs includes $59,503,000 for earthquake hazards, of which $5,000,000 is provided to transition the earthquake early warning demonstration project into an operational capability on the West Coast. A critical component of the earthquake early warning system is maintaining the existing real-time broadband and strong motion seismic networks along with geodetic monitoring networks. As the earthquake early warning system is developed, USGS is directed to collaborate with universities, companies and other Federal agencies with expertise and existing digital seismic observing networks to continue precise observation of critical fault locations. Next Article Previous Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://lamalfa.house.gov//media-center/e-newsletters/december-14th-closing-out-the-113th-congress,December 14th -- Closing out the 113th Congress,2014-12-14,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Doug LaMalfa,L000578,lamalfa.house.gov,,,legacy,"This past week in Washington we concluded our final session of the 113th Congress. Among the many legislative measures we considered was a bill authorizing federal funding for the coming fiscal year. After careful consideration, I voted against the measure, which failed to take action against the President’s executive amnesty plan and also included a number of non-budgetary items that I believe should have been more thoroughly reviewed. One of the first things I plan to do after the 114th Congress is sworn in next January is to join my fellow House Republicans in passing a bill that would block the president’s executive action on immigration. I have been clear that the President’s executive amnesty order is a blatant unconstitutional overreach of executive power which cannot be left unanswered. I also look forward to working with the incoming Republican Senate in addressing our need for water storage and flood control infrastructure, tackling the President’s amnesty plan, and continuing to reduce federal spending and regulations. We have another busy year ahead of us, and I am thankful for the opportunity you have given me to represent your voice here in Congress. To learn about how I can serve you and to follow me throughout the week, please visit my website. and stay in touch with me on my Facebook page as well!  Sincerely, Doug LaMalfa   Rep. LaMalfa urges passage of Emergency Drought Legislation, H.R. 5781. To view his speech on the House Floor, click here. I was pleased that H.R. 5781, a measure which I have proudly co-sponsored, passed out of the House of Representatives with my support on a 230-182 vote. Unfortunately, California’s Senators refused to act on the bill and our water crisis remains serious. H.R. 5781, the California Emergency Drought Relief Act, aims at providing immediate, emergency relief from California’s historic water crisis through two critical components: flexibility to store additional water when winter storms cause high river flows and protections for the North State’s senior and area of origin water rights. It is simply reckless that we continue to watch ill-conceived federal policies allow billions of gallons of water to be diverted away from our communities to just flow out to sea. It’s time to bring an end to the delays and inaction coming from Washington and start moving forward towards a long-term solution that adequately addresses our state’s water needs.To learn more about H.R. 5781, click here. The state of California is going through the worst drought in over a century, creating devastating conditions for our farms, families and ranches. Lake Oroville, above, has a record-low water level. This past Wednesday, the House unanimously passed H.R. 5059, the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act, a measure to increase access to mental health services to veterans, as well as implement sorely-needed accountability standards within the VA. According to a 2012 report from the Department of Veterans Affairs, an average of 12-22 veterans have committed suicide each day over the past decade. This statistic deeply saddens me. Our veterans are brave men and women who have endured great hardships for our country and I am determined to ensure they have access to the care they rightfully deserve. Although there is certainly more work to be done, this legislation is a critical step in improving care for our veterans and I urge the Senate to advance this measure.   It's always such a joy to meet with ambitious and inspiring youth from our district doing neat things out here in D.C. Ben Granholm of Grass Valley has been interning with the National Cattlemen's Beef Association this semester. Constituents, if you are out here in DC, come by the office and say hello!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/feinstein-in-the-news?ContentRecord_id=1665b10c-af8c-4290-9044-6782d5d3c709,Torture report senators triumph - Sacramento Bee,2014-12-14,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Originally appeared in the Sacramento Bee Despite dire warnings about consequences and withering attacks she would endure, Dianne Feinstein had no choice. She felt compelled to release the Senate Intelligence Committee Study of the Central Intelligence Agency’s Detention and Interrogation Program, otherwise known as the torture report. After 22 years in Washington, Feinstein is the consummate insider, a middle-of-the-road Democrat known for her establishment bona fides. In this instance, she stood up to the elites, rare among politicians. It was the crowning achievement of her 50 years in public life. Feinstein was busy Thursday attending a private reception where she toasted aides who produced the report, watching CIA Director John Brennan defend his agency at a press conference while her staffers tweeted fact-checking responses, and talking by phone with Brennan. At the end of it all, she gave me a call. “The important thing is that America recognizes its mistakes and takes the steps necessary to correct them,” she said. “In so many countries, that doesn’t happen.” It would not have happened here, either, if she had waited. As a consequence of Republican victories in November, Feinstein no longer will be Senate Intelligence Committee chair. Her replacement, Sen. Richard Burr of North Carolina, warned that the report “endangers our officers and allies in a blatant attempt to smear the Bush administration.” Rep. Devin Nunes, R-Visalia, the incoming chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, issued a statement saying “this report will damage U.S. national security and jeopardize American lives.” Torture is part of the partisan divide, alas, although not that long ago, in 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed the Convention Against Torture and Inhuman Treatment or Punishment. Apologists call what happened from 2002 to 2007 “enhanced interrogation techniques,” or even more Orwellian, “EIT.” Feinstein made clear her view by releasing the 500-page summary of the sealed 6,700-page investigation. There’s this on Page 41: “‘So it begins,’ a medical officer wrote, ‘The sessions accelerated rapidly progressing quickly to the water board after large box, walling, and small box periods. (Abu Zubaydali) seems very resistant to the water board. Longest time with the cloth over his face so far has been 17 seconds. This is sure to increase shortly. “NO useful information so far. … He did vomit a couple of times during the water board with some beans and rice. It’s been 10 hours since he ate so this is surprising and disturbing.” And on Page 114: “alNashiri launched a short-lived hunger strike, and the CIA responded by force feeding him rectally.” And on Page 115: “Majid Khan was then subjected to involuntary rectal feeding and rectal hydration, which included two bottles of Ensure. Later that same day, Majid Khan’s ‘lunch tray,’ consisting of hummus, pasta with sauce, nuts, and raisins, was ‘pureed’ and rectally infused.” What kind of pervert would imagine such treatment? During the five years in which the report was in the making, Feinstein and her staff faced leak investigations, dissembling, redaction, stonewalling. A few days before the report’s release, Secretary of State John Kerry, the epitome of the establishment, called to impress upon Feinstein the risks entailed in releasing the report. It’s not as if ISIS terrorists were unaware of the torture, she told me. Books had been written. She was on a mission; principles were at stake. Congressional committees have oversight responsibility. She takes that seriously. “We were stiffed for so long,” Feinstein said. Feinstein, at 81, is tougher than when I met her 30 years ago, though the San Francisco mayor had become hardened by the craziness of the times. She began that first interview by sternly saying she hoped I was prepared. She was getting ready for the Democratic National Convention, hosted that year in her city. No time for small talk. In a 1994 biography, “Dianne Feinstein: Never Let Them See You Cry,” former San Francisco Chronicle editorial page editor Jerry Roberts recounts that Feinstein had been a target of the New World Liberation Front in the middle 1970s, and that her daughter found a bomb at the family home. Feinstein began packing a .38 after the windows were shot out of her vacation house. And there was the awful day in November 1978, when Supervisor Feinstein tried to find a pulse in Supervisor Harvey Milk after Dan White shot him five times and assassinated Mayor George Moscone. Roberts wrote that Gov. Pat Brown in 1962 appointed her to her first government job, on a board that reviewed prison sentences. In 1966, she became part of a commission that investigated San Francisco jail conditions. The wretched conditions she documented as she started her public life were minor compared to what she discovered as her career nears its end, though, as Roberts wrote recently, it makes an interesting narrative. On Thursday, Brennan acknowledged that “the cause-and-effect relationship between the use of EITs and useful information subsequently provided by the detainee is, in my view, unknowable.” Feinstein believes it is known. The pragmatist said torture fails to produce useful information. “In this country, violence is glorified,” she said, a reference to the facile Hollywood notion that torture works. “The problem is that violence in this area doesn’t solve anything.” Upon taking office, President Barack Obama banned enhanced interrogation techniques. But that’s not enough. Any future president could repeal the order. Feinstein will push legislation that would enshrine the prohibition next year. Good luck in the new Congress. Burr, the incoming intelligence committee chairman, said Feinstein’s torture report will be “a footnote in history.” Willfully forgetful leaders repeat mistakes. That’s unfortunate. But it would not be for lack of effort on the part of the gutsy senator from San Francisco, whose choice was to provide a historic lesson on the good that a public servant can do.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://matsui.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=285,Congresswoman Matsui Applauds Senate Passage of Important Cruise Passenger Safety Provision,2014-12-14,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Doris Matsui,M001163,matsui.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday, December 11, 2014 CONTACT: JONELLE TRIMMER (202) 225-7163 Congresswoman Matsui Applauds Senate Passage of Important Cruise Passenger Safety Provision Bill includes language from Rep. Matsui's Cruise Passenger Protection Act requiring improvements to crime statistics website The Senate voted in a bipartisan fashion Wednesday to pass a Coast Guard reauthorization bill that includes a key provision ensuring the public has access to important safety information they need prior to booking a cruise. This provision was one of several cruise passenger safety provisions included in legislation Congresswoman Matsui introduced last year, the Cruise Passenger Protection Act (CPPA). The bill language transfers the responsibility for maintaining the cruise vessel crime data website from the Coast Guard to the Department of Transportation and requires a number of changes to ensure the website is user-friendly and includes all important data. Specifically, it requires the website to be updated quarterly and sorted by cruise line. The website will be required to identify each cruise line by name, identify each crime committed or allegedly committed by a passenger or crewmember regardless of the status of the investigation, and identify the number of individuals alleged overboard. This is an important victory for cruise safety advocates and for the millions of Americans who have taken a cruise or are considering one in the future. While cruise ships are billed as safe, family-friendly vacations, the reality is that crime happens onboard these ships just as it does anyplace else, said Congresswoman Matsui. Passage of this key provision from the Cruise Passenger Protection Act will ensure that anyone considering a cruise can easily view a more accurate number of crimes that occurred on each cruise line, and the nature of the crime. This is a huge step forward toward transparency and ensuring the safety of cruise passengers. The legislation passed the House last week. It now heads to the President's desk for his signature. The members of ICV are deeply indebted to the many members of the House and Senate who have been dedicated to the protection of cruise ship passengers. The passing of the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act will help to bolster and strengthen the existing CVSSA which Congresswoman Matsui authored in 2010 by increasing the public's awareness through the quarterly publication of additional safety information and crime data. All of the victims of cruise ship crime and negligence who for years, have taken their impassioned stories to Congress can breathe a bit easier thanks to the unwavering support of Congress Members such as Congresswoman Matsui and Congressman Poe who like us believed in the irrefutable rightness of this cause. We are indeed grateful on this historic day, said Kendall Carver, chairman of the International Cruise Victims Association (ICV). Congresswoman Matsui is a long-time advocate for improving safety and security aboard cruise vessels. She authored the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA), bipartisan legislation that was signed into law in 2010, requiring the cruise industry to comply with a number of security and crime reporting provisions. Last year, she introduced the CPPA, legislation which would build on the passenger safety measures put in place by the CVSSA by clarifying and strengthening the crime reporting and video surveillance requirements. In addition to requiring the website improvements passed today, this legislation bolsters FBI notification requirements when an alleged incident occurs, and strengthens video surveillance requirements to ensure maximum protection for passengers and victims, while taking steps to avoid privacy concerns. This action by the Senate is an important step for ensuring the safety of cruise passengers, but it is just a step. I will be reintroducing the Cruise Passenger Protection Act next Congress to ensure we continue to build upon the security and safety measures aboard our cruise ships, that consumers have access to accurate information, and that victims are given the support and resources they need and deserve, added Matsui. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bass.house.gov/press-release/statement-opposing-gop-budget-bill,Statement opposing GOP Budget Bill,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Karen Bass,B001270,bass.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington. DC--Congresswoman Karen Bass (D-Calif.) released the following statement after voting to oppose the 2015 CROmnibus legislation: ""I simply could not in good conscience vote to support legislation that undoes so many of the protections designed to protect Americans. Following the banking failures six years ago, Congress rightfully passed much-needed Wall Street reforms. House Republicans are using the threat of a shutdown to move America backward and  use a funding bill to help Wall Street lobbyists by slipping in a provision that would let derivatives traders on Wall Street gamble with taxpayer money. I am also opposed to provisions that would allow millionaires and billionaires even more say in our elections. ""Although there are many provisions in this bill that I supported, including a substantial funding increase for victims of human trafficking and language that is a first step to achieving our goal of making it easier for transit agencies like LA Metro to hire local workers on their light rail project, in the end I cannot support the final legislation because of the poorly written policy that it contains. The American public deserves a real debate on the rules that govern Wall Street--not last-minute insertions in the closing days of Congress with the threat of a government shutdown. ""Speaker Boehner and Congressional Republican leadership know they can do better. They knew how divisive these provisions would be, and I hope that when the next Congress is sworn in next January we will have a more transparent budget process.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://chu.house.gov/press-release/rep-chu-statement-omnibus-spending-bill,Rep. Chu Statement on Omnibus Spending Bill,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Judy Chu,C001080,chu.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) voted against the $1.1 trillion omnibus spending bill. The bill, which would fund much of the government through 2015, also included a number of unrelated “riders.”  One of these would repeal a crucial provision of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act which requires Wall Street banks insured by the government to independently fund their riskiest derivative trading so tax payers are not left accountable. And another would increase the cap from $32,400 to $324,000 on individual campaign contributions. Rep. Chu released the following statement: “I was hoping to vote for an imperfect but necessary funding bill today. Instead, Republicans gave us a bill that went beyond funding the government to hurt taxpayers and weaken the integrity of our elections. Both of these provisions are unacceptable and have been presented to us at the point of a fiscal gun without any Congressional hearings or debate. “The Dodd-Frank law was passed to prevent the kind of risky trades that led to the historic economic collapse in 2008. This provision, written by Wall Street lobbyists, would roll back crucial protections and allow banks to use risky bets at taxpayer expense. We cannot subsidize Wall Street profits. “I am also very opposed to the incredible ten-fold increase in the amount an individual can contribute to a campaign. Our elections are predicated on the democratic value that all Americans have an equal say. This bill further weakens our campaign finance laws and allows the wealthiest to have an even greater voice in our elections, at the expense of every-day citizens. These dramatic changes to our laws have no place in a temporary funding bill. I urge my Republican colleagues to present a clean spending bill to keep the government open and allow the legislative process to work as it should for more serious bills that will have a substantial impact on our country.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://huffman.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/huffman-applauds-fcc-vote-to-increase-funding-to-expand-internet-access,Huffman Applauds FCC Vote to Increase Funding to Expand Internet Access for Low-Income and Rural Schools,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Jared Huffman,H001068,huffman.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON­—Congressman Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) applauded the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for their vote yesterday to increase funding for the E-Rate Program by $1.5 billion, expanding internet access to low-income and rural schools and libraries. Huffman had earlier urged the FCC to modernize the program and increase its funding. “Digital connectivity will only become more important to education, and every school in America should have access to high-speed internet. Unfortunately, broadband technology has lagged behind in rural and low-income schools, leaving teachers without cutting-edge educational tools and learning material that students need to prepare for their future and to compete in the global economy,” Huffman said. “I applaud the FCC for their investment of $1.5 billion to help schools on the North Coast and across the country close the digital divide and ensure our students get the best education possible.” E-rate was established by Congress in 1996 to connect every school and library to the Internet, and it has provided financial assistance to schools and libraries for the cost of telecommunications and Internet services for nearly two decades. E-rate provides discounts of up to 90 percent to help schools and libraries throughout the United States obtain affordable telecommunications and internet access. Today, it remains the federal government’s largest source of funding for technology in education. However, the program’s funding level is no longer sufficient to ensure schools and libraries can access the Internet speeds and wireless connections needed to support 21st century learning. Earlier in the congressional session, Huffman wrote a bipartisan letter to the FCC urging them to modernize the E-Rate program. You can find the full text of the letter here. The average American school has about the same bandwidth as the average American home, but with 200 times as many users. Currently, 72% of American schools do not have the Internet infrastructure they need to take advantage of digital learning opportunities, and fewer than 1% have the infrastructure they will need in the future. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://huffman.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/huffman-statement-opposing-omnibus-spending-bill,Huffman Statement Opposing Omnibus Spending Bill,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Jared Huffman,H001068,huffman.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON­—Congressman Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) released the following statement after voting against the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, H.R. 83: “I could not in good conscience vote for this special interest Christmas tree masquerading as a government funding bill. And I’m deeply disappointed that 57 Democrats joined the House Republican majority in passing it. “What we learned through this disgraceful ‘CRomnibus’ episode is that House Republicans will seize every opportunity to legislate special favors for Wall Street, mega-rich campaign contributors, and big polluters. American taxpayers are once again exposed to potential bailouts of Wall Street banks who can now resume risky derivative trading with other peoples’ money, backed by FDIC insurance when the next financial bubble bursts. Mega-donors can now write obscenely large checks to political parties, further expanding their outsized political influence. And Big Coal can continue its devastating mountaintop removal mining with less onerous stream protection rules – and with a special provision to support the coal export boom by continuing taxpayer investments in dirty energy projects abroad.   “We see the GOP’s true priorities by the many special interest giveaways in this bill – and also by what was deliberately left out of the bill. The Secure Rural Schools program is set to expire, leaving education systems in much of my North Coast district and many rural areas around the country in financial limbo. Instead of heeding the bipartisan calls to extend the program, House Republicans left it out of the Omnibus so that they could use it as a partisan political football next year. They essentially admitted as much in floor debates. House Republicans have been relentlessly attacking our environmental laws and we know that will continue next year. But using struggling rural schools as hostages to advance their anti-environment partisan agenda is a cynical political move even by the low standards of this Congress.    “Democrats could and should have leveraged our votes for a better government funding bill. I'm also disappointed that instead of drawing a firm line on policy priorities, the Obama administration capitulated and actually whipped the bill. “We have now given a bully our lunch money. He will be back in January, bigger, stronger, and asking for more.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://juliabrownley.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/brownley-delivers-46-million-in-retroactive-and-estimated-monthly,BROWNLEY DELIVERS $4.6 MILLION IN RETROACTIVE AND ESTIMATED MONTHLY FEDERAL BENEFITS TO CONSTITUENTS SINCE TAKING OFFICE,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Julia Brownley,B001285,juliabrownley.house.gov,,,legacy,"THOUSAND OAKS, CALIF. – In nearly two years since Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) took office, Brownley and her staff have successfully delivered more than $4.6 million in retroactive and estimated monthly federal benefits to constituents throughout Ventura County. Additionally, she helped secure more than $10 million in federal grants for local projects. “When I was elected to Congress, I was determined to provide the best constituent services possible,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “As I prepare to begin my second term in office, I will continue to strive to be Ventura County’s voice in Washington.” Below are highlights of Congresswoman Brownley’s constituent-centered approach to strengthening Ventura County’s economy and fighting for middle-class families. Received and responded to over 119,000 inquiries from constituents. Of those 119,000-plus inquiries, over 2,100 required Brownley to open cases and cut through bureaucratic red tape while advocating for constituents. Recovered nearly $2 million in retroactive VA benefits, plus more than $1.8 in estimated monthly VA benefits. Recovered over $300,000 in overdue Social Security benefits to Ventura County residents. Helped secure more than $10 million in federal grants, including $4.3 million for expanding local transit service; $1.8 million for security and infrastructure for the Port of Hueneme; $600,000 for maintenance and improvements for the Camarillo and Oxnard airports; $500,000 for carrier service incentives for Oxnard airport; $120,000 for Reins of HOPE in Ojai to expand access to complementary and alternative therapy for veterans; and $2.4 million to keep a local fire station open and staffed. “If you live in California’s 26th Congressional District and need my help with a federal agency, please don’t hesitate to contact my district offices,” Brownley said. “It is my honor to serve you as your advocate in Congress.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://lamalfa.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rep-lamalfa-opposes-budget-measure,Rep. LaMalfa Opposes Budget Measure,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Doug LaMalfa,L000578,lamalfa.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC – Rep. LaMalfa (R-CA) today voted against a measure setting federal funding for the coming fiscal year.    “After careful consideration, I voted against the government spending measure that failed to take action against the President’s executive amnesty plan and included a number of nonbudget items. Having thoroughly reviewed the bill, I felt that there were too many elements of the package that were not adequately discussed and were not directly related to funding government operations,"" continued LaMalfa. ""Congress should have more fully considered these elements, and I have been clear in my belief that we must act to defund the President’s amnesty plan.”   “While Congress is grappling with these issues, the North State is experiencing flooding that is affecting homes, businesses and families. My first steps in working with the incoming Republican Senate will be to address our needs for water storage and flood control infrastructure, tackling the President’s amnesty plan and continuing to reduce federal spending and regulations.” Doug LaMalfa is a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou and Tehama Counties.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://lowenthal.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398552,Congressman Lowenthal Helps Secure $7.74 in Funding to Keep Queensway Bay Channel Open,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Alan Lowenthal,L000579,lowenthal.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Alan Lowenthal has helped secure an additional $7.74 million for much-needed dredging of the Queensway Bay channel, which sits at the mouth of the Los Angeles River in Long Beach. The funding is in addition to more than $5 million already secured by the Congressman and the City of Long Beach for initial dredging work, which is set to begin soon.  All told, the combined funding will allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to completely clear a full navigable channel by removing years of sediment build-up from the frequent silting that occurs as debris and sediment flows down and out of the L.A. River. “The Queensway Bay channel is a key waterway in our area and keeping it open is critical to the thousands of recreational boaters who rely on it each year,” Congressman Lowenthal said. Silting in the Queensway Bay channel can negatively impact navigation for vessels launching from Long Beach’s South Shore Launch Ramp, located in the channel. Nearly 10,000 vessels launch from this ramp per year and require a clear channel to safely maneuver, and 600,000 people rely on the channel for transportation and tourism each year. Dredging must be completed every three to five years to keep the channel clear, but due to the fact that that maintenance dredging was not kept up, the channel has been in danger of silting to the point of becoming impassible by marine craft. ""The City of Long Beach is thrilled to see that through the leadership provided by Congressman Lowenthal, Congress has passed a budget bill that includes $7.7 million for dredging the federal channel in the Los Angeles River Estuary in 2015,"" says Mayor Robert Garcia.  ""The City and Congressman Lowenthal have been working closely together over the past two years to ensure that sufficient federal funds are invested in maintaining navigability in the federal channel.  This is a safety matter, and also a matter of economic importance, as the federal channel is the only path of travel between Catalina Island and Long Beach."" The funding was included in Congress’s fiscal year 2015 funding package as part of a request by the Congressman and the City of Long Beach. The House today passed and sent the “CRomnibus” funding package to the Senate, which is expected to soon pass and send to the President’s desk for his signature. The funds will then become available to the Army Corps. “I am proud to have worked diligently with appropriators, The U.S. Army Corps, the City of Long Beach, and the City of Avalon to secure funding for the Army Corps to complete dredging of the channel, and I want to thank each of them for helping to make this happen,” Congressman Lowenthal said. The Queensway Bay channel serves as an important link between Long Beach and Catalina Island. Over 600,000 total passengers travel through this passage every year, making ferry service between Catalina Island and Long Beach, the second most used ferry system in California. The commuter ferries to Catalina Island alone provide a significant economic benefit to both the Southern California region and Catalina Island. Any service interruption between Long Beach and Avalon has an immediate negative economic impact on both communities, as well as creating an undue hardship for commuters and Catalina residents. The House passed the funding bill, H.R. 83, by a vote of 219 to 206. Congressman Lowenthal voted 'no' on the bill in its final form. “Ultimately, I decided to vote ‘no’ on the bill despite my hard work and support on many items contained within it, including the dredging funds. Last minute additions to the bill such as attacks on the Dodd-Frank consumer financial protections and a dangerous expansion of campaign contribution limits to unheard of levels made it impossible for me to vote ‘yes’ with a clear conscience. I believe these additions to the bill will hurt people in the 47th District more than the rest of the bill will help them,” Congressman Lowenthal said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://nunes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398260,Rollback of ObamaCare regulation could save hundreds of Central Valley jobs,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Devin Nunes,N000181,nunes.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rollback of ObamaCare regulation could save hundreds of Central Valley jobs Rep. Nunes advances bipartisan solution to expat issue f t # e Washington, December 12, 2014 The omnibus spending bill passed by the House of Representatives includes language to roll back a regulation in the ObamaCare law that put hundreds of Valley jobs at risk. The language, drafted by Republican Congressman Devin Nunes (CA-22) and Democratic Congressman John Carney (DE), with Congressman David Valadao (CA-21) and Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23) acting as original cosponsors, exempts insurers from certain ObamaCare mandates on policies sold to expatriate Americans and to foreigners living outside their home countries. Those mandates made U.S. insurers’ policies uncompetitive in foreign countries, provoking some insurers to consider downsizing U.S.-based operations and laying off workers, including up to 700 employees in Visalia alone. “This is one of many problems caused by government planners’ attempt to re-engineer the healthcare system through ObamaCare,” said Rep. Nunes. “Thanks to bipartisan cooperation among concerned legislators – including Representative Carney and Senators Carper and Coons, and especially valuable assistance provided by Speaker of the House John Boehner – hundreds of workers no longer face the possible loss of their livelihoods due to careless legislation.” The Senate is expected to approve the rollback today or tomorrow.    #  #  #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://nunes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398270,U.S. Senate to Central Valley: No water for you!,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Devin Nunes,N000181,nunes.house.gov,,,legacy,"The House of Representatives this week passed its third bill in three years to alleviate the California water crisis. Based on extensive, bipartisan House-Senate negotiations, the California Emergency Drought Relief Act (H.R. 5781) included numerous Senate demands. The bill did not even strive to permanently solve the crisis, instead proposing measures simply to bring some short-term relief to families and to help farmers get through the upcoming growing season. Nevertheless, the Senate refused to approve even these minimal, temporary actions, just as it declined to act on the previous House water bills. The House was also prepared to pass the measures as part of the Omnibus spending bill, but the effort was killed by Senate opposition.     Having rejected all our initiatives, the senators should explain their plan for relieving the water crisis. As I argued on the House floor, by the way they’re acting, it’s almost as if they have no plan at all . . .   Separately, the Nunes Digest is updated here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://royce.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397599,The fight against human trafficking,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Edward Royce,R000487,royce.house.gov,,,legacy,"In her junior year of college, Southern California native Rachel Thomas found herself trapped in a sex-trafficking ring after being lured by a pimp claiming to be a talent agent. The pimp threatened to kill Rachel’s family if she attempted to escape. Angela Guanzon was promised a good-paying job in the United States by a recruiter in the Philippines. Instead, she found herself forced to sleep on the floor of a retirement home in Long Beach, working 18 hour days for no pay. Rachel and Angela shared their incredible stories of survival with me earlier this year. Their experiences are important reminders that human trafficking is a global problem, but not a faraway one. Human trafficking is affecting communities across Southern California, including in Orange and Los Angeles counties. At a hearing in Washington I convened last year as chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, L.A. County Supervisor Don Knabe described 10- to 12-year-old girls being pimped on the streets of Los Angeles – a shocking reality also confirmed by Orange County District Attorney Tony Rackauckas at our hearing last year in Fullerton. In fact, the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force has served over 225 victims of trafficking in 2013 alone. The enhanced penalties of California’s new anti-trafficking law (enacted in 2013 as Proposition 35) were put to use for the first time last October, when a man who had attempted to lure a 13-year-old girl from Bakersfield into sexual slavery in Sacramento was sentenced to more than 32 years in prison. Increasing the penalties for traffickers is a step in the right direction, but more can and must be done to combat the efforts to lure minors into sexual or labor trafficking. That’s why last year I started my Human Trafficking Congressional Advisory Committee, comprised of victims’ rights organizations, local and federal law enforcement agencies and community advocates. Our members include representatives from the Orange County District Attorney’s Office Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit, the Anaheim Police Department, Crittenton Services for Children & Families, the O.C. Salvation Army, and the Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking, to name a few. Once a month, the HTCAC meets in my Orange County district office to share concerns and policy recommendations in the fight against trafficking. One pressing issue HTCAC has brought to my attention is the need for collaboration between local nonprofits and agencies in providing housing options for victims under age 18. The passage of Proposition 35 in 2012 determined that minor victims of commercial sexual exploitation would no longer be detained in juvenile hall – a practice that often revictimized them. However, private shelters are often not secure. Young victims need an environment where they can cope and recover from their traumatizing experiences. They need counseling, treatment and a well-staffed facility where they can work with law enforcement to prepare to testify against their trafficker. Without this support, survivors are often too scared of retribution to speak out, and the perpetrator is never caught. With nowhere to turn, many young victims return to their pimps out of fear and violent threats to themselves or their families. To more adequately prepare local agencies to address this very problem, I’ve co-sponsored the Strengthening the Child Welfare Response to Human Trafficking Act. This legislation helps ensure that child welfare agencies have the necessary tools to understand the unique needs of child trafficking victims and the resources to appropriately serve them. Improving the child welfare response to trafficking is an important step toward effectively caring for these young survivors and removing dangerous traffickers from our communities. We must also work to combat overseas traffickers who bait foreign-born workers to move to the U.S. with promises of good jobs, then trap them into exploitation and slavery. Last year, I introduced the Fraudulent Overseas Recruitment and Trafficking Enforcement (FORTE) Act. This legislation combats the growing problem of international human trafficking by requiring overseas labor recruiters to provide detailed employment information to workers – to help avoid the bait-and-switch into slave labor or sexual slavery once workers enter the U.S. – and creating additional penalties and enforcement mechanisms. I have convened a number hearings focused on how the United States can increase efforts to combat human trafficking, particularly the fraudulent recruitment of overseas workers. Through bipartisan action, I am confident we will make substantive progress in this important fight. With an estimated 60,000 people living in slave-like conditions in the U.S., now is the time to act and collaborate. We must do all we can to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and fight the spread of this grievous offense against human dignity. Rep. Ed Royce, R-Fullerton, is chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://valadao.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397976,House Passes Omnibus Spending Package,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,David Valadao,V000129,valadao.house.gov,,,legacy,"On Thursday, December 11, 2014, the United States House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2015 Omnibus Appropriations bill. share: f t Last night, Thursday, December 11, 2014, the United States House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2015 Omnibus Appropriations Bill. The legislation will provide discretionary funding for the federal government for the current fiscal year. Eleven of the Twelve annual Appropriations bills will be funded through the end of the fiscal year, September 30, 2014. The 12th bill, which provides funding for the Department of Homeland Security, is included in the legislation; however, it is funded under a temporary Continuing Resolution which will expire on February 27, 2014. Congressman David G. Valadao (CA-21), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, the committee responsible for drafting this legislation, “Most of this bill is the result of months of work by the House Appropriations Committee. However, the Senate’s refusal to pass a single Appropriations bill prevented Congress from budgeting through regular order. However, funding the federal government is the most basic duty of Congress, and this omnibus fulfills that responsibility.” He continued, “In addition to preventing a federal government shutdown, this bill also includes several important provisions for my constituents. For example, this bill ensures no additional federal dollars for California High Speed Rail, provides a $4,500,000 increase for specialty crop pest research, and prevents certain regulations that would allow harmful government interference in the livestock industry.” H.R. 83, Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 was passed by a vote of 219-206 on Thursday, December 11, 2014. Highlights of the bill include: Funding – Provides a total of $1.013 trillion for the operation of the federal government and meets the $521 billion defense and $492 billion non-defense budget caps set forth by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 National Security – Contains the fiscal year 2015 Defense Appropriations bill, providing funding for our nation’s security, military readiness, and resources for our troops at home and abroad • Funds important Department of Defense programs and projects, a pay raise for our troops, and the advancement of our military operations to protect the nation • Includes $64 billion in Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) funding to provide needed resources and training for our troops in the field, to combat the threat presented by ISIL, to train and equip our Iraqi allies, and to reinforce European countries facing Russian aggression.Job Creation and Reining in Bureaucratic Overreach – Prioritizes funding for important programs that strengthen U.S. innovation and competitiveness, and that help our businesses thrive, such as small business loans, science research funding, resources to expedite domestic energy development, and critical infrastructure investments • The bill also includes many provisions to rein in regulatory overreach that causes job loss and harm to our economyObamaCare – Provides no new funding for ObamaCare, and holds the line on funding for the primary agencies responsible for the implementation of Obamacare (the IRS and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) Life – Maintains all existing pro-life policy and funding provisions that have been carried in previous years, including a ban on public funding for abortions in the District of Columbia and a ban on abortion funding for federal prisoners • Includes new language allowing states increased access to abstinence education fundingOther important policy provisions  • A ban on the Administration’s onerous “light bulb” standard • Provisions to protect Second Amendment rights, including a prohibition on funding for the EPA to regulate lead content in ammunition or fishing tackle • The legislation also restricts the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) from implementing certain regulations that would allow harmful government interference in the private market for the livestock and poultry industry • Provides schools with flexibility from whole grain standards and ensuring future sodium reductions will not take effect until supported by science • Bans and limitations on federal agency conferences and awards • Provisions to stop the transfer or release of Guantanamo detainees into the U.S. • Provides a $4.5M increase for Specialty Crop Pests with a focus on a citrus greening control • A prohibition on funding for the IRS to target organizations for regulatory scrutiny based on their ideological beliefs or for exercising their First Amendment rightsSavings and Oversight of Tax Dollars – The bill includes program cuts and oversight provisions to ensure the responsible use of taxpayer dollars • No funding for high-speed rail • A $345.6 million cut and extensive oversight requirements for the Internal Revenue Service • A $60 million cut and oversight requirements for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) • Oversight and monitoring requirements to weed out waste and abuse in nutrition programs • A pay freeze for the Vice President and senior political appointees  For the full text of the bill and accompanying report, please visit: http://docs.house.gov/floor/. Congressman David G. Valadao represents the 21st Congressional District, which includes Kings County and portions of Fresno, Tulare, and Kern Counties.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=d0ce247f-523b-44e3-b9c4-e82f05c2c638,"Torture report is about us, not enemies, and we must enact reform - San Francisco Chronicle",2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Originally appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle On Tuesday, a five-year review of the CIA’s detention and interrogation program was finally made public, drawing back the curtains on a very dark period of American history. The purpose of making this report public is simple: to ensure something like this can never happen again. The 500-page executive summary that was made public is part of a larger 6,700-page review of a CIA program that included clear examples of torture, far outside the bounds of American values. It’s important to remember the study is based on CIA’s own records: 6.3 million pages of the CIA cables, memos, reports, e-mails and other documents. These records from the very time the actions took place — appear extensively in the report’s 38,000 footnotes. Many of these records were disturbing, at times deplorable. But there was also some wisdom in those records, like a 2005 e-mail from then-CIA Inspector General John Helgerson. It read, in part: “We have found that the Agency over the decades has continued to get itself in messes related to interrogation programs for one overriding reason: we do not document and learn from our experience — each generation of officers is left to improvise anew, with problematic results for our officers as individuals and for our Agency.” This report provides that documentation, and now we need to learn from it and apply the lessons. We must never again allow our country to veer so far off course. To do that, we have to study where we went wrong. Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., said last week on the Senate floor, “The truth is sometimes a hard pill to swallow.” Indeed, the executive summary includes some particularly vile treatment, and it’s difficult to comprehend what happened. We included these details to drive home how wrong and un-American this program was. One detainee was kept awake for 180 hours — that’s more than seven days without sleep. One otherwise healthy detainee died while in custody, likely from hypothermia. Beatings were common, painful stress positions were often used and threats were made against detainees’ lives and against their families. There were even mock executions. All of this happened outside the normal system of checks and balances. Congress was blocked from oversigt, and policymakers reviewing the program were often misinformed. What guidelines existed to prevent abuse were repeatedly ignored. The result of these actions? A program of interrogation and torture that yielded no information necessary to stop terrorist plots or capture terrorists. This was an ugly program, but let me be clear: Our country is strong enough to own up to what we did and make the necessary changes to make sure it never happens again. It’s what the most powerful country in the world should and must do. Lindsey Graham, a Republican colleague from South Carolina who also spoke on the Senate floor on Tuesday, made this point: The evils our enemies visit upon us are far worse than how we treated these prisoners, but we must hold ourselves to a much higher standard than ISIL or al Qaeda. This isn’t about our enemies. This is about us. So now we need to move forward. It’s time to finally enact federal laws that ban interrogation techniques like these from ever being used again. In the coming days, I plan on joining several other senators in offering a series of recommendations that stem from this report. We shouldn’t have to rely on a presidential executive order, which could be reversed and is the only thing prohibiting the CIA from resuming this program. Critics of this report have said that releasing it will make us less safe, that the world is too unstable to handle what this report found. In considering these concerns, I determined that there is never a good time to admit we tortured people, but it must be done. But it’s not the report that’s at fault, it’s the fact that we allowed torture to happen in the first place. When we released the report, I talked on the Senate floor about how the study was conducted, what was in it and what it meant. But the speaker who followed me really put it in the proper context, and that was Sen. McCain. No one knows better that torture doesn’t work than John. He spent five years as a prisoner of war. He lived this debate, and I’m proud to have him on my side. John spoke eloquently, offering argument after argument against the use of torture. One passage in particular stuck me: “It is essential to our success in this war that we ask those who fight it for us to remember at all times that they are defending a sacred ideal of how nations should be governed and conduct their relations with others — even our enemies.” Let’s not forget that lesson. Let’s not repeat the same mistakes. I encourage everyone to read the report, come to your own conclusion and if you agree, join in the fight to end torture. Dianne Feinstein represents California in the U.S. Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=338ad3a5-8ae1-4736-9e27-6970e8f87759,Feinstein Hails Passage of Defense Authorization Bill,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington—Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today welcomed Senate passage of the FY15 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which contains a number of Feinstein’s legislative proposals benefitting California on both public lands and military issues. Public lands “I am pleased by the passage of several public lands provisions affecting California,” Feinstein said. “Overall, this bill means California can preserve potential wilderness areas, pursue commonsense land exchanges and commemorate the history of our national parks.” The following legislation was sponsored or cosponsored by Feinstein and was included in the NDAA: Inyo National Forest Land Exchange Act: This bill facilitates a land exchange between the operators of the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and the Inyo National Forest. The land exchange will enable the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area to acquire the 21 acres it currently leases from the Forest Service so that it can make much needed long-term improvements to its facilities. In exchange, the Forest Service would receive approximately 1,500 acres of environmentally valuable private lands and cash payments equivalent to the value of the ski resort lands. This win-win solution benefits the local tourism economy and protects important natural resources. Buffalo Soldiers in the National Parks Study Act: This legislation authorizes a study that will determine the best way to commemorate the Buffalo Soldiers, the Army’s first all-African American units. In particular, it seeks to honor the critical role they played in the early years of the national park system, including Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks, where they essentially served as our nation’s first park rangers. China Lake Naval Weapons Station Boundary Adjustment: This amendment authorizes the withdrawal of approximately 12,000 acres of public lands sought by the Department of Defense for use by the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, while also preserving a roughly equal amount of adjacent public lands that have long been proposed to be designated as wilderness area additions. Cabin Fee Act: This legislation, introduced with other western senators, restructures the system for assessing annual leasing fees paid by cabin owners residing on Forest Service land. The new system will eliminate radical increases in lease payments so that cabin owners unable to afford such dramatic increases are not forced to forfeit their properties. Feinstein also supported other California public lands provisions in the NDAA including the Trinity County, Calif. Land Exchange and the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge Land Exchange. Military issues “This bipartisan piece of legislation is good for our national security and our men and women in uniform,” Feinstein said. “I’m glad a few outstanding military land-use issues in California have been resolved through this legislation.” The following legislation, sponsored or supported by Feinstein, was included in the NDAA: Mt. Soledad Veterans Memorial: Legislative language negotiated by Feinstein directs the Secretary of Defense to sell the Mt. Soledad Veterans Memorial in San Diego, Calif. to the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association. It is hoped that this provision and subsequent sale will end the ongoing controversy regarding the memorial while preserving the land as a privately-owned veteran’s memorial in perpetuity. Air Force Land Conveyance in Norwalk, Calif.: This amendment allows a conveyance from the former Air Force Norwalk Defense Fuel Supply site to the City of Norwalk. The town intends to transform the former Air Force land into a community park. As part of the ongoing efforts to confront and defeat ISIL, Senator Feinstein strongly supports the Overseas Contingency Operations funding authorization, as well as the authorities granted to train and equip moderate Syrian opposition forces, Iraqi security forces and the Kurdish Peshmerga. Senator Feinstein also supported two space-related provisions included in the NDAA. They are provisions increasing the number of competitive space launches within the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle program, and a bill authorizing $220 million to begin developing a U.S.-made replacement for the Russian-made RD-180 engine that is currently used by the United Launch Alliance. Feinstein expressed disappointment that provisions regarding the transfer of Guantanamo Bay detainees essentially preserved the status quo. Legislation supported by Feinstein—and approved by the Senate Armed Services Committee—that would have allowed the transfer of detainees to the United States for trial or critical medical treatment did not make it into the final bill. Finally, Feinstein welcomed funding to purchase additional F-18 aircraft, body armor for our service members and additional Iron Dome batteries for Israel. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=56d0dda9-b528-489f-843a-58cb246bcc5d,Fact Check: Coercive Interrogation Techniques Did Not Lead to bin Laden,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington—The raid of a compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, on May 1, 2011, that killed Osama bin Laden was the product of a decade-long intelligence manhunt. The compound was located after Abu Ahmed al-Kuwaiti, bin Laden’s facilitator, was identified by the intelligence community. Contrary to CIA representations, this intelligence operation did not rely on information from CIA detainees after they were subjected to the CIA’s coercive interrogation techniques. The following timeline lays out when and how intelligence on bin Laden was collected. November 2001: A phone number associated with Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti is under surveillance by the U.S. government. (page 380, footnote 2143) March 2002: The same phone number is found in Abu Zubaydah’s phone book under “Abu Ahmad K.” (page 387, footnote 2190) April-July 2002: CIA obtains signals intelligence linking Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti with bin Laden’s family and collects Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti’s emails. (pages 380-381) June-October-2002: Four detainees in foreign custody provide information on Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti’s age, physical appearance and family, as well as information on the unique importance of Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti, including Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti’s close relationship with Khalid Sheikh Mohammed in coordinating terrorist attacks against the United States. (pages 381-382) June 25, 2002: Riyadh the Facilitator, while in the custody of a foreign government, suggests Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti may be bin Laden’s courier. (page 382) August 2002: Abu Zubair, while in the custody of a foreign government, states that Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti “was one of a few close associates” of bin Laden. (page 383) March-Sept 2003: During and after coercive interrogation techniques, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed provides conflicting, incomplete and inaccurate information about a facilitator who he calls “Abu Ahmad al-Baluchi.” Months later, when confronted with reporting from a detainee in foreign government custody, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed acknowledges knowing Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti but states Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti worked with low-level al Qaeda members. (pages 387-388, footnote 2190) April 2003: Ammar al-Baluchi discusses Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti in foreign government custody with foreign government interrogators using rapport building techniques. (page 388, footnote 2190) May 2003: Ammar al-Baluchi is rendered to CIA custody and is nearly immediately subjected to the CIA’s coercive interrogation techniques. While undergoing EITs, Ammar admits to fabricating information and states that there were rumors that Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti was a courier for bin Laden. Later, Ammar retracts this statement and states Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti was never a courier. (page 388, footnote 2190). July 7, 2003: Abu Zubaydah, 10 months after coercive interrogation techniques, states that he does not know Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti. (page 387, footnote 2190) January 2004: Before being subjected to the CIA’s coercive interrogation techniques, Hassan Ghul is questioned and sings “like a tweetie bird.” He reveals that Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti was bin Laden’s closest assistant, that bin Laden probably lives in a house with a family in Pakistan, that bin Laden would have minimal security and that Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti would handle all of bin Laden’s needs. The day after this reporting is provided to CIA Headquarters, the CIA transfers Ghul to another CIA detention site and immediately subjects Ghul to the CIA’s coercive interrogation techniques. (page 384) August 2005: Khalid Sheikh Mohammed states that Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti was not a courier and that he has never heard of Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti transporting letters to bin Laden. (page 388, footnote 2190) February and September 2009: Voice samples from 2001-2002 signals intelligence collection are compared to other voice samples which led the intelligence community to assess that Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti was located in a specific area in Pakistan. Abu Ahmad al-Kuwaiti was then geolocated and tracked to the bin Laden compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan. (page 381, footnote 2147) ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=e8f730c3-43c8-4931-94f6-c478f25d8bbb,"Fact Check: CIAs Use of Rectal Rehydration, Feeding Not Medical Procedures",2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Dianne Feinstein,F000062,www.feinstein.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington—As documented in the Senate Intelligence Committee study of the CIA’s detention and interrogation program, coercive interrogation techniques included the use of rectal rehydration and rectal feeding of CIA detainees. Contrary to some claims, this is not a medical procedure, nor was it ever approved by the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel as an authorized interrogation technique. On December 10, 2014, the New York-based Physicians for Human Rights stated that “Contrary to the CIA’s assertions, there is no clinical indication to use rectal rehydration and feeding over oral or intravenous administration of fluids and nutrients.” The report includes ample information about the uses of these procedures, including: Page 73: One detainee, al-Nashiri, launched a short lived hunger strike that resulted in the CIA force feeding him rectally. (Source: CIA cable, May 23, 2004.) Page 82: CIA’s chief of interrogations ordered the rectal rehydration of Khalid Shaykh Mohammed without a determination of medical need, a procedure that the chief of interrogations would later characterize as illustrative of the interrogator’s “total control over the detainee.” (Source: CIA cable, March 5, 2003; interview by the CIA inspector general, March 27, 2003.) Page 83: In March 2003, Khalid Shaykh Mohammed was also subjected to additional rectal rehydration (Source: CIA cable, date redacted), which a CIA officer from the Office of Medical Services “described as helping to ‘clear a person’s head’ and effective in getting KSM to talk.” (Source: CIA email, March 6, 2003, names of sender and recipients redacted.) Page 100, footnote 584: According to CIA records, listed in this footnote, the CIA rectally rehydrated and/or rectally fed al-Nashiri, Khalid Shaykh Mohammed, Abu Zubaydah and Marwan al-Jabbur. Ramzi bin al-Shibh, Khallad bin Attash and Adnan al-Libi were threatened with rectal rehydration. CIA medical officers discussed rectal rehydration as a means of behavior control. As one officer wrote, “[w]hile IV infusion is safe and effective, we were impressed with the ancillary effectiveness of rectal infusion on ending the water refusal in a similar case.” (Source: multiple CIA cables, dates redacted; CIA email, February 2004, names of sender and recipients redacted.) Page 100, footnote 584: The CIA’s June 2013 response to the study does not address the use of rectal feeding with CIA detainees, but defends the use of rectal rehydration as a “well acknowledged medical technique.” CIA leadership, including General Counsel Scott Muller and DDO James Pavitt, was also alerted to allegations that rectal exams were conducted with “excessive force” on two detainees at DETENTION SITE COBALT. A CIA attorney was asked to follow up, although CIA records do not indicate any resolution of the inquiry. (Source: multiple CIA emails, dates and names of sender and recipients redacted.) Pages 114-115: Although Majid Khan cooperated with the nasogastric tube and the provision of intravenous fluids, he was subjected to rectal feeding and rectal rehydration without any evidence he was resisting other feeding methods. The rectal feeding included the rectal infusion of the “pureed” contents of Majid Khan’s “lunch tray,” including hummus, pasta with sauce, nuts and raisins. (Source: two CIA cables on September 23, 2004.) ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://juliabrownley.house.gov/brownley-delivers-46-million-in-retroactive-and-estimated-monthly/,Brownley Delivers $4.6 Million in Retroactive and Estimated Monthly Federal Benefits to Constituents Since Taking Office,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Julia Brownley,B001285,juliabrownley.house.gov,juliabrownley,https://juliabrownley.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Thousand Oaks, CA – In nearly two years since Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) took office, Brownley and her staff have successfully delivered more than $4.6 million in retroactive and estimated monthly federal benefits to constituents throughout Ventura County. Additionally, she helped secure more than $10 million in federal grants for local projects. “When I was elected to Congress, I was determined to provide the best constituent services possible,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “As I prepare to begin my second term in office, I will continue to strive to be Ventura County’s voice in Washington.” Below are highlights of Congresswoman Brownley’s constituent-centered approach to strengthening Ventura County’s economy and fighting for middle-class families. Received and responded to over 119,000 inquiries from constituents. Of those 119,000-plus inquiries, over 2,100 required Brownley to open cases and cut through bureaucratic red tape while advocating for constituents. Recovered nearly $2 million in retroactive VA benefits, plus more than $1.8 in estimated monthly VA benefits. Recovered over $300,000 in overdue Social Security benefits to Ventura County residents. Helped secure more than $10 million in federal grants, including $4.3 million for expanding local transit service; $1.8 million for security and infrastructure for the Port of Hueneme; $600,000 for maintenance and improvements for the Camarillo and Oxnard airports; $500,000 for carrier service incentives for Oxnard airport; $120,000 for Reins of HOPE in Ojai to expand access to complementary and alternative therapy for veterans; and $2.4 million to keep a local fire station open and staffed. “If you live in California’s 26th Congressional District and need my help with a federal agency, please don’t hesitate to contact my district offices,” Brownley said. “It is my honor to serve you as your advocate in Congress.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z https://juliabrownley.house.gov/brownley-statement-on-fy2015-cromnibus/,Brownley Statement on FY2015 CROMNIBUS,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Julia Brownley,B001285,juliabrownley.house.gov,juliabrownley,https://juliabrownley.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) issued the following statement regarding her vote on the Fiscal Year 2015 Continuing Resolution and Omnibus Appropriations Act: “I voted for the FY2015 funding bill because it would be irresponsible to shut down the federal government, which could send our economy back into recession. The last shutdown cost the economy $24 billion and furloughed 818,000 workers. While this bill is certainly flawed, I could not in good conscience support putting our fragile economic recovery, and the jobs in Ventura County that might be impacted by a shutdown, in jeopardy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:44:12Z https://lee.house.gov/news/press-releases/congresswoman-lee-praises-medical-marijuana-protection-provision,Congresswoman Lee Praises Medical Marijuana Protection Provision,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Barbara Lee,L000551,lee.house.gov,,,legacy,"12.12.14 Congresswoman Lee Praises Medical Marijuana Protection Provision Washington, D.C. Last night, the House passed the $1.1 trillion spending bill that was unfortunately littered with gifts for Wall Street and other harmful policy riders. However, the bill did contain a key provision that Congresswoman Lee strongly supported. The provision prevents federal overreach that would keep Californians from their medicine. The provision prohibitsthe use of funds by the U.S. Department of Justice to prevent states from implementing their own state laws that authorize the use, distribution, possession or cultivation of medical marijuana. The federal government should never get in between patients and their medicine, said Congresswoman Barbara Lee. This provision brings us one step closer to providing relief for those suffering from multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, cancer, HIV/AIDS and other medical conditions. Congresswoman Lee was a leading co-sponsor of this provision when it passed the House as the Farr-Rohrabacher amendment to the FY 2015 CJS Appropriations Bill, which passed the House in May. She actively advocated for inclusion of that amendment in the final spending bill. ### Congresswoman Lee is a member of the Appropriations and Budget Committees, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip's Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity. Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://bera.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/crowley-roskam-announce-new-india-caucus-co-chairs-bera-holding,"Crowley, Roskam announce new India Caucus co-chairs Bera, Holding",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Ami Bera,B001287,bera.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC–Today, Congressman Joseph Crowley (D-NY), and Congressman Peter Roskam (R-IL), the co-chairs of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans for the 113th Congress, announced that Congressman Ami Bera (D-CA) Congressman George Holding (R-NC) will serve as the new co-chairs for the 114th Congress:                               “Ami is an accomplished physician, a staunch advocate for his constituents, and is a go-to member when it comes to working constructively in Congress,” said Crowley. “His passion for the issues is impressive, and there is no question the Caucus will be in excellent hands. The Indian-American community has a wonderful partner in Ami Bera, and I look forward to working with him, and the entire India Caucus, as we continue our efforts to strengthen relations between the U.S. and India.” “George is the perfect person for this role and I know that the caucus will be in good hands,” said Roskam. “As Republican Chair of the India Caucus, George will focus in on growing the relationship between our two democracies, emphasizing our nations’ shared interests from global security to trade and international prosperity. At over 180 members, our caucus is the largest in the House dedicated to a single country. Among so many of his colleagues, and with an unmatched work ethic and understanding of the issues, George will absolutely thrive.” “As the only Indian American serving in Congress, I’m honored to have been voted co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans,” said Bera. “I'd like to express my gratitude to Congressmen Crowley and Roskam for their years guiding the Caucus. Under their leadership the India Caucus has grown to one of the largest caucuses in the House. I’m excited to take on this new role at a critical time for the partnership between the U.S. and India. Building on Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the U.S. in September and President Obama’s upcoming trip to India, I look forward to working with Congressman Holding and our colleagues in the Caucus to continue to grow the economic and strategic relationship between our countries and to advocate for the Indian American community.” “As I have said before, the United States-India bilateral relationship can be one of the defining partnerships of this century,” said Holding. “I’m honored to follow Congressmen Roskam and Crowley and thank them for their commitment to this important relationship. I look forward to advancing the efforts of the Caucus as co-chair with Rep. Ami Bera. With a shifting geopolitical situation in Asia, unwavering cooperation between the U.S. and India is essential to promoting peace and stability.” Bera represents Sacramento County in Congress. Born and raised in California, Bera is a physician and only the third Indian American ever to serve in Congress. A member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Bera is a proponent of strengthening United States' strategic and economic ties with India and Asia and is working to open Asian markets to California products to create new  jobs. He is also fighting for equal rights for the Indian American community. Crowley has served as co-chair of the India Caucus in the 112th and 113th Congresses. Formed in 1993, the India Caucus is a bipartisan group of members that is dedicated to championing strong ties between the U.S. and India and supporting the Indian-American community. During his term, Crowley has helped grow the India Caucus to become one of the largest caucuses in the House and initiated several key events, including the first-ever Congressional Diwali celebration in 2013. Crowley led the Democratic whip effort as part of the Congressional push to secure the enactment of the U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Agreement, a landmark agreement that brought U.S.-India relations into the century after decades of distance during the Cold War. A recognized leader in Congress on issues related to the Sikh-American community, Crowley spearheaded a multi-year, successful effort to convince the federal government to begin collecting data on hate crimes committed against Sikh-Americans and Hindu-Americans, an important issue brought to the national spotlight by the massacre of Sikhs worshipping at a temple in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. He is also the leading voice calling for an end to the presumptive ban on Sikhs serving in the U.S. military.  George Holding (NC-13) is a former U.S. Attorney and currently serves on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Judiciary Committee. As a testament to Congressman’s Holding’s unique understanding of a strong U.S.-India relationship, he was chosen to lead a Congressional Delegation to India last year. In the 114th Congress, Representative Holding looks forward to strengthening U.S.-India relations as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://calvert.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397404,Rep. Calvert Supports Bill Setting the Stage to Confront Obama on Illegal Immigration,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,CA,Ken Calvert,C000059,calvert.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Calvert Supports Bill Setting the Stage to Confront Obama on Illegal Immigration f t # e Washington, D.C, December 11, 2014 Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42) voted along with a majority of the House in support of the Fiscal Year 2015 Omnibus Appropriations bill.  The bill will fund every federal agency through the end of the Fiscal Year 2015, except the Department of Homeland Security, which is funded under a temporary “Continuing Resolution” mechanism that expires on February 27, 2015.    “The bill approved by the House today prevents a government shutdown and sets the stage for Republicans to confront President Obama’s unilateral executive action on illegal immigration,” said Rep. Calvert. “The bill limits funding for Homeland Security and our immigration enforcement agencies until the end of February.   Meanwhile, as I have done in the past, I will be urging my colleagues to enact legislation that strengthens the security of our border and makes the use of E-Verify mandatory.  With the majority in the House and Senate next Congress, Republicans will directly challenge President Obama’s unilateral approach to immigration reform.""   ### f t # e",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://cardenas.house.gov//media-center/spanish-releases/c-rdenas-nombrado-a-comit-m-s-poderoso-de-la-c-mara,CRDENAS NOMBRADO A COMIT MS PODEROSO DE LA CMARA,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Tony Cárdenas,C001097,cardenas.house.gov,,,legacy,"CÁRDENAS NOMBRADO A COMITÉ MÁS PODEROSO DE LA CÁMARA   (Washington, DC) – El Representante de EE.UU. Tony Cárdenas será ahora la voz de Los Angeles en el comité más poderoso de la Cámara de Representantes de EE.UU. El martes, Cárdenas fue nombrado al prestigioso Comité de Energía y Comercio de la Cámara, el más antiguo de los “comités de autorización,” donde han sido creados y debatidos muchos proyectos de ley históricos. “Este comité es el más importante de nuestra Cámara,” dijo Cárdenas. “Me llena de orgullo servir y espero que podamos orientar nuestros debates hacia temas que importan en Los Angeles y en nuestra nación. Tengo la intención de usar la amplitud de mi experiencia para estar listo el primer día para discurrir soluciones a los retos a los que se enfrenta nuestra nación.” Cárdenas trae más de 18 años de experiencia legislativa al comité, al que es “conferido la mayor amplitud de jurisdicción de cualquier comité de autorización congresional.” En los últimos años, ha llevado la responsabilidad de la Ley de Cuidado de Salud; cambio climático y política de energía; política de telecomunicaciones; protecciones al consumidor, incluyendo asuntos de alimentos y medicamentos; y comercio general, incluyendo asuntos que afectan a las industrias del entretenimiento y la tecnología. “Como antiguo propietario de pequeña empresa, ingeniero, jefe del Comité de Presupuesto de California y líder en progreso medioambiental en la ciudad de Los Angeles, tengo un conjunto único de habilidades y experiencias,” dijo Cárdenas. “Esta es una época importante para América, según construimos una economía americana nueva. El Comité de Energía y Comercio será una parte importante del proceso de construcción.” Cárdenas será uno de sólo dos miembros Hispanos del comité, ayudando a representar el 20 por ciento de consumidores americanos que son Hispanos. Será sólo el quinto miembro Hispano de la Cámara de EE.UU. en servir en el Comité de Energía y Comercio. Cárdenas será el único miembro del comité de Los Angeles, una de las regiones económicas más diversas de la nación e impulsora clave del comercio internacional. La región fue previamente representada en el comité por Rep. Henry Waxman (D-Santa Monica), quien fue jefe y segundo miembro de liderazgo en los últimos años. “Como miembro del equipo de coordinación entre Representantes del Sur de California y nuestro liderazgo, me complace que mi colega Tony Cárdenas haya sido elegido para servir en el poderoso Comité de Energía & Comercio, que supervisa una gran variedad de asuntos incluyendo comercio internacional e interestatal, protección de consumidores, el medioambiente, política de energía, telecomunicaciones y más,” dijo la Rep. Janice Hahn (D-Los Angeles). “Habiendo previamente servido con el Congresista Cárdenas cuando estábamos en Concejo Municipal de L.A. juntos, estoy segura de que representará bien nuestra región.” Cárdenas recibió el apoyo de sus colegas regionales para el puesto en una votación el martes por la mañana. “El Comité de Energía y Comercio es uno de los comités más poderosos en el Congreso,” dijo Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Sherman Oaks), quien representa el distrito del Valle de San Fernando que está al lado del distrito de Cárdenas. “Tony estará en buen lugar para ayudar a las empresas del Valle en las industrias de alta tecnología e instrumentos médicos. Y sé que Tony luchará por los consumidores y el medioambiente.” Históricamente, el Comité de Energía y Comercio ha liderado en temas empresariales y comerciales, a la vez centrándose en protecciones al consumidor. En 1906, aprobó el Pure Food and Drug Act, una de las primeras ocasiones en las que el gobierno federal instituyó estándares de salud en casi cada producto usado por americanos, para asegurarse de que grandes compañías de alimentos y medicamentos no usaran su tamaño para ocultar productos que contuvieran ingredientes potencialmente letales. Más recientemente, la emblemática Ley de Cuidado de Salud vino de legislación debatida durante más de 100 horas en sesiones llevadas a cabo por comités incluyendo Energía y Comercio. Se espera que el comité esté en el epicentro de inminentes debates sobre “net neutrality”, cambios a la Ley de Cuidado de Salud, política de energía y consolidación mediática, incluyendo la fusión Comcast-Time Warner. “En esencia, nuestro gobierno debe luchar para fomentar la salud y el bienestar de nuestros ciudadanos,” dijo Cárdenas. “Continuaré mi lucha para proteger a los desfavorecidos en nuestra nación, incluyendo proteger a la Ley de Cuidado de Salud, y a la vez trabajando para crear empleos buenos de clase media para las familias Americanas.” En el comité, Cárdenas se ha comprometido a ser una voz para las industrias del entretenimiento que tienen hogar en Los Angeles, así como los sectores emergentes en la región de tecnología y energía.   CÁRDENAS TAMBIÉN NOMBRADO COORDINADOR REGIONAL (“WHIP”) El nombramiento al prestigioso comité viene justo después de que Cárdenas fuera reelegido Coordinador Regional (“Regional Whip”), junto a Rep. Janice Hahn. Hahn y Cárdenas servirán al Coordinador de la Minoría de la Cámara Steny Hoyer como representantes del Sur de California (Distritos Congresionales 21 a 53).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://garamendi.house.gov/press-release/ranking-member-garamendi-helps-lead-coast-guard-and-maritime-transportation-bill-which,"Ranking Member Garamendi Helps Lead Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Bill which Passes Senate, House and will be Signed into Law",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,John Garamendi,G000559,garamendi.house.gov,,,legacy,"Bipartisan Bill will Strengthen our Economy and National Security and Includes Garamendi’s Growing American Shipping Act WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the Senate and House of Representatives both passed S. 2444, the Howard Coble Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2014 by unanimous consent. The bill now heads to the President’s desk, where it will be signed into law. This bipartisan legislation reauthorizes funding for the United States Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, and the Federal Maritime Commission. It also provides policy direction and certainty for these entities and the entire maritime sector. As Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA-03) worked closely with Chairman Duncan Hunter (R-CA-5) to write the bill; negotiated a bipartisan, bicameral compromise; and built support for passage through both chambers of Congress and with the Administration. “I am pleased that even in a partisan environment, the House, Senate, and the White House are coming together on legislation that will strengthen our Coast Guard and maritime businesses. I am also pleased that this legislation includes my bipartisan Growing American Shipping Act, which says that when it is deemed appropriate to export LNG, it should be on American-flagged vessels,” said Congressman Garamendi. “This bill will modernize our Coast Guard, make our maritime businesses more competitive, and strengthen American shipbuilding – the backbone of our maritime sector. While the bill has some minor flaws, on balance, it is a very good compromise that will strengthen our economy and national security.” Garamendi added, “I commend Coast Guard Subcommittee Chairman Duncan Hunter, and also Chairman Bill Shuster and Ranking Member Nick Rahall of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for their bipartisan leadership on this legislation. I also want to thank Senator Rockefeller and Senator Thune for their invaluable cooperation throughout our negotiations, and for their yeoman efforts to expedite clearance of the bill today.” The Howard Coble Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2014 (S. 2444) includes provisions that: Authorize the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve for fiscal year 2015; Support Coast Guard servicemembers and their families by providing new child care and family support programs; Require development of a comprehensive National Maritime Strategy; Reauthorize the small shipyard competitive grant program, which in 2011 awarded a $1.4 million grant to a facility in Alameda County; Provide new guidance to the Coast Guard as it continues to rebuild its offshore fleet of cutters, including the granting of multi-year procurement authority for the new Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) which will help expedite the construction of this new class of cutter once a final design is selected next year; Clarify existing authorities to promote the use of U.S. flag vessels in the export of LNG; Strengthen cooperation between the Coast Guard and State Maritime Academies, including California Maritime Academy in Vallejo, by codifying the Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee; Help replace and modernize aging Coast Guard assets in a cost-effective manner; Provide new directives that the Coast Guard needs to prepare for full-time operations and for the safety of maritime transportation in the Arctic, including authority to reactivate the heavy icebreaker Polar Sea; Provide explicit cooperative agreement authority to enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to develop beneficial partnerships with other maritime stakeholders, including private businesses, nonprofits, and foreign governments; Improve Coast Guard acquisition activities; Enhance Congressional oversight; and Create opportunities for veterans to transition to careers in the Merchant Marine. The legislation is named in honor of retiring Congressman and long-serving House Transportation Committee Member Howard Coble, the only current Member of Congress to have served in the Coast Guard and a strong supporter of the Service.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://huffman.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/rep-huffman-applauds-passage-of-new-measure-to-prevent-veteran-suicides,Rep. Huffman Applauds Passage of New Measure to Prevent Veteran Suicides,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Jared Huffman,H001068,huffman.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON­—Congressman Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) applauded the unanimous House passage of bipartisan legislation to address the epidemic of suicide among our nation’s veterans.  “Many of our veterans return from war facing traumatic brain injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder, or mental health challenges. Too many don’t receive the care they need and, tragically, take their own lives,” Huffman said. “The passage of this bipartisan legislation brings us one step closer to ensuring our veterans receive the care they need and deserve. I know that our work is not done and we need to keep working to guarantee the United States meets the solemn commitments it made to its veterans.” Twenty-two veterans commit suicide every day – more than 8,000 every year.  Of the more than 2 million Americans who have served in combat in Afghanistan and Iraq, it is estimated that one-third, roughly 600,000 women and men, have traumatic brain injury, PTSD or depression.  Named in honor of an Iraq and Afghanistan War veteran and noted suicide prevention advocate who took his own life on March 31, 2011, The Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act (H.R. 5059) is another step toward ensuring our nation’s veterans have the support they need by expanding access to and improving the effectiveness of mental health care for our veterans. The Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act will establish a peer support and community outreach pilot program to assist transitioning servicemembers with accessing VA mental health care services.  To ease access to services, the bill will require the VA to create a one-stop, interactive website to serve as a centralized source of information regarding all mental health services for veterans.  A student loan repayment pilot program aimed at recruiting and retaining psychiatrists included in the legislation will help address the shortage of mental health care professionals.  To improve care, the legislation will require an annual, third-party evaluation of all mental health care and suicide prevention practices and programs at the VA to find out what’s working and what’s not.  The bill was introduced by Representative Tim Walz (D-MN), the highest ranking enlisted soldier ever to serve in Congress and co-authored by Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Committee Jeff Miller (R-FL) and Representative Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), a Purple Heart recipient, Iraq War veteran, and member of the Army National Guard. Last June, Huffman voted for the Veterans Access, Choice & Accountability Act of 2014 (H.R. 3230), which would provide accountability and access to care for veterans at the Department of Veterans Affairs. H.R. 3230, which was signed into law by President Obama, provided $15 billion in emergency funding to the VA. The $15 billion in emergency funding includes $10 billion for expanded health care options for veterans and $5 billion to bolster care within the VA. It also gives the VA Secretary the power to quickly remove incompetent senior executives based on poor job performance and ends a number of policies that allowed for this disgraceful state of affairs to occur. Huffman also recently met with the new Secretary to discuss solutions to the claims backlog and improved healthcare for veterans in rural communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://juliabrownley.house.gov//media-center/press-releases/brownley-focuses-on-link-between-veterans-homelessness-and-military,BROWNLEY FOCUSES ON LINK BETWEEN VETERANS HOMELESSNESS AND MILITARY SEXUAL TRAUMA,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Democrat,House,CA,Julia Brownley,B001285,juliabrownley.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) participated in a House Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing: “Evaluating Federal and Community Efforts to Eliminate Veteran Homelessness.” During the hearing, Brownley focused on the links between female veterans’ homelessness and military sexual trauma (MST). During testimony before the committee, John Downing, CEO of Soldier On, noted that in his experience 100 percent of the female veterans who are homeless have experienced MST. He also noted that of all homeless veterans, approximately 25 percent are considered chronically homeless, and may never become self-sufficient, requiring a lifetime of intensive care. Brownley used her time during the hearing to hone in on these statistics. A video of the exchange is available here. As Ranking Member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Health, Brownley has been particularly focused on issues facing female veterans, including MST. Earlier this year, Brownley offered a Motion to Instruct conferees on the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014, which led to the inclusion several provisions on MST in the final bill. Brownley has also urged Chairman Miller to hold a full committee hearing to focus more on issues facing female veterans. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z