Dear friend,

Over a year ago, the last thing we expected was a pandemic to change our world and lives. For many, COVID-19 has meant grief, loss and uncertainty. As we work to recover from this public health and economic crisis, San Diegans have proved to be resilient and determined. Now, there is more light at the end of the tunnel.

Yesterday, Governor Newsom announced that all Californians over 50 will be eligible for vaccines on April 1, and those over 16 will be eligible on April 15. As our governments continue collaborating and health care workers move this vaccine campaign forward, we appreciate your patience as vaccine supply increases and more appointments become available.

In much sadder news, a tragically familiar event took place in Colorado a few days ago with the fatal shooting of ten people in a supermarket. My heart is with the victims' families and loved ones and the Boulder community. More than ever, we need the Senate to pass gun safety reform to keep Americans safe.

This week, I continued my work representing San Diego. Below is another update on some of the work my staff and I have done this week to serve you.

Legislative work

Resolution to reinstate methane emission standards

Today, Reps. Diana DeGette (D-CO), Conor Lamb (D-PA) and I introduced a resolution to reinstate a rule to regulate methane emissions from the oil and gas industry. If approved, the resolution would invalidate the Trump administration’s 2020 Methane Rescission Rule that weakened, and in some cases eliminated, requirements that oil and natural gas companies limit methane and volatile organic compound emissions from their operations. The resolution would largely reinstate the Oil and Natural Gas New Source Performance Standards put in place by the Obama administration in 2012 and 2016.

A super pollutant, methane is 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide, causing some of the greatest damage to our environment. This resolution underlines the EPA’s existing authority to regulate methane emissions – a critical and immediate step to tackle the climate crisis.

Legislative hearings

I participated in three Energy and Commerce Committee hearings on Monday and Wednesday.

• Monday's hearing focused on the LIFT America Act, which seeks to rebuild and modernize the nation’s water, energy supply and health care infrastructures, among other investments. I asked about future policy and regulations to manage emissions from natural gas systems, the hydrogen economy and its role in meeting a net-zero emissions target by 2050, and how much Congress should appropriate each year to maintain a modern public health infrastructure.
• During Wednesday's hearing on the Clean FUTURE Act, which includes language from the POWER ON Act I authored, I asked witnesses whether it would be a good strategy to site transmission along highways and railways and about the role renewable resources played on the California blackouts and the Texas power grid failure.
• As Vice Chair of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, I helped lead a hearing on the power outages in Texas that occurred last month. According to the most recent National Climate Assessment, the primary cause of power outages in the U.S. is extreme weather. I asked the witnesses about investments needed to improve Texas’ grid resiliency as we face a changing climate and about what we can learn from Texas related to broad investments in grid resiliency.

District work

Round table discussion with local AAPI voices

On Tuesday, I brought together leaders and advocates from the AAPI community for a discussion on the rise of hostility toward and attacks on Asian Americans. We spoke about these incidents being related to COVID-19, as well as discrimination that existed well before the beginning of this pandemic. The stories and personal experiences shared during this round table discussion point to deep problems in our country today. Thank you to everyone who participated for their time and contributions to this important conversation. I will continue my work in Washington, D.C. and in my district to protect, uplift and support our AAPI communities. Click here to watch the full discussion. Highlights from this conversation can also be found on my Facebook profile and here.

Resources:

• Pledge to commit to creating a welcoming and safe climate for SDSU's Asian Pacific Islander Desi American community
  

• San Diego API Coalition

• Asian Business Association's Small Business Development Center (including language assistance)

• DHS 2021 Nonprofit Security Grant Program
• Report hate crimes to the District Attorney’s Office

Meeting with UCSD Graduate and Professional Students Association members

Today, I met with students from UC San Diego’s Graduate and Professional Student Association. We discussed the need to reauthorize the Higher Education Act to include new oversight of education programs, scholarship opportunities for graduate students and funding for graduate improvement programs. We also spoke about our continued support for DACA, the importance of reforming the high skilled immigration system, and the need to increase funding and support for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency in light of the SolarWinds hack.

This week's casework success story

Earlier this month, Edwin from Carmel Valley requested assistance after his veteran mother passed away. He and his sister were beneficiaries on her remaining pension. His sister received her check, but Edwin's didn't arrive in the mail. After spending a year requesting a replacement from Defense Finance Accounting Service, Edwin contacted my office. After my staff submitted an inquiry, Edwin received a re-issued check in the mail for $812.46 less than a week later. 

"This matter, along with an IRS overpayment, are the first occasions that I have ever had to request the services of my elected officials...Regardless of the reasons for needing assistance, I am thankful for your help. It is comforting to know there are those that support everyday Americans. You can be sure that I will share my positive experience with my friends."

- Edwin from Carmel Valley

NEW: Participate in our weekly poll!

We've recently introduced a new section in our e-newsletter for readers to weigh in on a relevant topic. Thank you to everyone who has participated so far. Here's this week's question:

There are renewed calls for an assault weapons ban following two deadly shootings in Georgia and Colorado. Do you support a federal assault weapons ban?

Click here to submit your answer via Google Forms. We'll share the results in next week's e-newsletter.

Last week's question was: These immigration bills (the American Dream and Promise Act and the Farm Workforce Modernization Act) secure permanent protections and a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who are key to our economy and our nation. Do you think these measures will help fix problems within our immigration system? Here are the results:

334 responses: 40.1% Yes, providing a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, others *and* legal protections for agricultural workers is necessary. 26.9% Somewhat, but more work needs to be done. 17.4% No, different solutions should be proposed and implemented. 15.6% Other

If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or need assistance with a federal agency, reach out to us through our website or by calling the district office at 858-455-5550.

To stay updated on my work throughout the week, you can also follow my social media accounts by clicking on the icons below.

Stay safe and be well,

Dear friend,

Relief is on the way as President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act into law yesterday. This historic and robust legislation is a lifeline for Americans who need help the most by extending unemployment benefits, delivering more targeted direct payments and supporting hard-hit businesses such as restaurants and event venues.

In other encouraging news, President Biden also announced the purchase of 100 million Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine doses and his goal of having adults vaccinated in time for July 4th. These developments provided a sigh of hopeful relief, but we must not let our guard down. Please stay safe and help keep those around you safe as well.

This week, I continued my work in Washington, D.C. by voting to pass crucial legislation. Below is another update on some of the work my staff and I have done this week to serve you.

Legislative work

Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2021 and Enhanced Background Checks Act of 2021 

On Thursday, I voted to pass two bills I co-sponsored to advance gun safety in America and save lives. The Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2021 requires background checks for all gun transfers, not just those sold by federally licensed retailers, such as gun purchases over the internet. The Enhanced Background Checks Act of 2021 reinforces that background checks must be completed before retailers can sell firearms.

Specifically, the Bipartisan Background Checks Act would require a background check for every gun sale or transfer to ensure that individuals prohibited from gun possession under federal law, such as felons, domestic abusers and those considered a danger to themselves or others are not able to obtain firearms. The Enhanced Background Checks Act would close the Charleston Loophole that currently allows the sale of a firearm to proceed if a background check is not completed within three business days.

While our nation has seen far too many tragedies related to gun violence, nearly 100 Americans lose their lives each day in gun-related incidents that don’t make headlines. To all those who have been hurt by gun violence, lost a loved one, or fought tirelessly with us: this vote is for you. Click here for more information.

Responding to constituent noise complaints

I recently sent two letters to request action to evaluate and address community concerns regarding military flights over coastal and inland neighborhoods in my district, including University City, Carmel Valley, Torrey Hills, La Jolla and Sunset Cliffs. I requested military commanders ensure aviators adhere to course rules, enforce proper rotary flight stand-off distance from beach and cliffside residences, and avoid unnecessary overflights of neighborhood areas, particularly at low altitude. The letters, sent to Major General Mahoney at MCAS Miramar and Captain John De Pree at Naval Base Coronado, can be found here.

San Diego has long been a proud home to the Navy and Marines and their aviation operations. We know that flights over certain communities are inevitable given the volume of operations, the complexity of airspace and weather conditions, and mission requirements to support our defense. Still, we ask the armed services to be good neighbors because there is room for improvement.

Meeting with members of the Surfrider Foundation

Briefing with Regional Task Force on the Homeless

Earlier today, I had a briefing with Tamera Kohler, Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Task Force on the Homeless. She discussed the organization's recent work and how COVID-19 has affected the community's needs. We also spoke about veteran and youth homelessness, the Convention Center shelter, and the need for low-barrier housing to connect individuals experiencing homelessness with services they need.

This week's casework success story

Stephen, a Vietnam Combat Veteran from Rancho Bernardo, reached out to my office earlier this month regarding a payment for a medical bill he had made to Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) that had not been processed. My staff opened an inquiry with the VA, and a few days later, we received notice that the outstanding bills were processed for a total of $1200.

"I waited over a year for them to process the claims, and once you contacted them, it took five days. I am beyond grateful for your help! I will share my story with anyone that listens."

- Stephen's wife, Silvia, on his behalf

NEW: Participate in our weekly poll!

We've recently introduced a new section in our e-newsletter for readers to weigh in on a relevant topic. Thank you to everyone who has participated so far. Here's this week's question:

The American Rescue Plan Act includes funds for struggling entertainment venues through the Small Business Administration's Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program. Are you planning on attending live events (including music and theater) once these venues are allowed to reopen? 

Click here to submit your answer via Google Forms. We'll share the results in next week's e-newsletter.

Last week's question was: "Have you gotten a COVID-19 vaccine? If not, will you get it once you're eligible to receive it/once it is available?"

Here are the results:

429 responses: 67.6% Yes, I have received a first dose/both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. 23.8% I have not received a COVID-19 vaccine yet, but I am planning to get it once I am eligible/once it is available. 1.4% I have not received a COVID-19 vaccine yet and I am *not* planning to get it. 0.9% I have not received a COVID-19 vaccine yet, but I am *unsure* if I will get it once I am eligible/once it is available. 6.3% Other

If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or need assistance with a federal agency, reach out to us through our website or by calling the district office at 858-455-5550.

To stay updated on my work throughout the week, you can also follow my social media accounts by clicking on the icons below.

Stay safe and be well,

Dear friend,

This week brought encouraging news on the COVID-19 vaccine front as more vaccine dose shipments arrived in our region. As a result, people who work in emergency services, child care and education, and food and agriculture, including grocery store employees, will be eligible to receive a vaccine starting tomorrow. Click here to learn how different agencies will vaccinate these new eligible groups. You can also check your eligibility and be notified when it's your turn to be vaccinated here.

As we make progress in the fight against this virus in San Diego and across the country, I urge you to stay safe by wearing masks, frequently washing your hands, and practicing social distancing. We're not out of the woods yet.

This week, I continued my work in Washington, D.C. Below is another update on some of the work my staff and I have done this week to serve you.

Legislative Work

Reintroduction of the Workforce Mobility Act

This week, I reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral Workforce Mobility Act with Rep. Mike Gallagher (WI-08), Rep. Anna G. Eshoo (CA-18), and Rep. Peter Meijer (MI-03). This bill seeks to help American workers by limiting employers’ ability to force employees to sign non-compete agreements.

While California has long prohibited the use of non-competes, one in every five workers nationwide is covered by a non-compete agreement. Forty percent of American employees have been constrained by a non-compete agreement at some point during their career. The Workforce Mobility Act would narrow the allowable use of non-compete agreements to only include extraordinary cases such as the sale of a business or the hiring of senior executives. It would also require employers to explicitly inform their employees of the limitations non-compete agreements impose. Click here for more information on this bill.

American Rescue Plan Act

Today, the House expects to pass President Biden's American Rescue Plan Act. This COVID-19 relief bill would provide $1,400 stimulus checks per person, $56.75 billion for vaccines and testing, $130 billion for K-12 schools, and extend unemployment benefits, among other critical provisions. This proposal is a good start, but I hope further improvements can be made in the Senate to ensure this funding targets individuals, families and businesses who need it the most. This would include extending the duration of unemployment payments with automatic triggers, adjusting the amount and timing of state aid based on real revenue shortfall, and expanding funding for the industries that are hurting the most, specifically restaurants, attractions, and live entertainment. I'm hopeful that these changes will further arm the fight against COVID and provide funding where and when it’s truly needed.  

District Work

Meeting with leaders of the Dawoodi Bohras community

Last Friday, I met with leaders of the Dawoodi Bohras community of San Diego, a branch of Islam from the Indian subcontinent. We spoke about the community's traditions, customs and beliefs, as well as how members are helping others throughout this pandemic with food drives and other helpful events.

Peace Corps Information Night

Join us next Monday for a special information night on the 60th anniversary of the Peace Corps. I'll be speaking with local past volunteers and recruiters about their experiences during their service, how people can join the Peace Corps and how the organization has adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The event will take place from 5:00 to 6:00 P.M. via Zoom and will be streaming live on Facebook.

Click here or the graphic above to join!

NEW: Participate in our weekly poll!

We've recently introduced a new section in our e-newsletter for readers to weigh in on a relevant topic. Thank you to everyone who has participated so far. Here's this week's question:

Click here to submit your answer via Google Forms. We'll share the results in next week's e-newsletter.

Last week's question was: "Optimizing [the national] grid may reduce carbon emissions, improve system resiliency and reduce wholesale power costs, but would require the federal government to override state and local objections to power line permitting and construction. Would you support this kind of overhaul to our power grid? Here are the results:

370 Responses: 67.3% Yes, the grid's capabilities need to be modernized for current demand and to promote renewables. 22.4% Other 10.3% No, this would be an unnecessary undertaking.

If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or need assistance with a federal agency, reach out to us through our website or by calling the district office at 858-455-5550.

To stay updated on my work throughout the week, you can also follow my social media accounts by clicking on the icons below.

Stay safe and be well,

Dear friend,

While most of the work out of Washington, D.C. continues to be focused on COVID-19 and relief, we also saw the start of former President Trump's impeachment trial. Re-watching the horrific violence that took place at the Capitol on January 6th affects all of us. In the context of this pandemic, it's more important than ever to take care of ourselves and others by wearing masks and practicing social distancing, but also to look after our mental health and overall well-being. To search for specific county mental health services and resources, click here.

I continue my work in the district to stay in touch with the people I represent. Below is another update on some of the work my staff and I have done this week to serve you.

Legislative work

House Committee on Energy and Commerce markup of COVID-19 relief budget reconciliation

We know the crises brought on by COVID-19 are far from over. Americans need relief now and the government must provide resources and boost existing efforts to end the pandemic. We're closer to delivering President Biden's American Rescue Plan after this week's full committee markup of important portions of this aid package. This markup session was extended over two days, during which committee members debate, offer and vote on amendments. You can watch my remarks here to hear about the inclusion of the Tracking COVID-19 Variants Act, a bill I introduced with Rep. Ami Bera (CA-07) and Sen. Tammy Baldwin (WI). This legislation provides crucial funding to scale up national genomic sequencing efforts, which are vital to track virus mutations and further protect public health.

District work

Conversation with NDN on New Dem 100 Day Agenda

This week, I discussed the New Democrat Coalition's priorities during President Biden's first 100 days in office with Simon Rosenberg, the founder of the NDN think tank and advocacy organization. As Vice Chair of the House New Democrat Coalition for Policy, I reviewed the coalition's agenda and priorities, which include ending the pandemic, getting people back to work, fighting climate change and restoring our country's leadership role in the world. If you missed this conversation, you can watch it here.

Meeting with members of the San Diego Community College District

On Monday, I met with leaders from the San Diego Community College District. They spoke about the actions they would like Congress to take, including action for DACA recipients, Pell Grant increases, support for student veterans, and making Pell Grants tax exempt. We also discussed the toll COVID-19 is having on student and staff mental health

Meeting with service academy nominees

On Thursday, I met the 33 students I have the honor of nominating to our nation's service academies. These young men and women were selected after applying and being interviewed by an independent service academy nomination board. The nomination makes them eligible to be selected for a fully-funded education with one academy, with the obligation and commitment to serve in the military for at least five years after graduating. Congratulations to this year's nominees! I wish you a successful and fulfilling future as you begin your careers in the armed forces.

This week's casework success story

Mehri from downtown San Diego is a nurse working at Scripps on the frontlines to battle COVID-19. She contacted the office in October to request assistance with expediting her asylum interview. Mehri originally filed in November 2016 under the previous administration's Last In/First Out policy. Since then, her interview has been delayed several times, creating uncertainty over her long-term status. My staff worked with Mehri to gather paperwork and justify the need for an expedited interview. After submitting employment letters and verification on behalf of Mehri, her expedited interview for asylum was approved.

NEW: Participate in our weekly poll!

We've recently introduced a new section in our e-newsletter for readers to weigh in on a relevant topic. Thank you to everyone who has participated so far. Here's this week's question:

Proposals to address student debt and the high cost of higher education are being debated as we deal with the current economic crisis. What do you think?

Click here to submit your answer via Google Forms. We'll share the results in next week's e-newsletter.

Last week's question was "What do you think is the best course of action for Congress to help families and businesses given the severity of this (COVID-19) crisis?" Here are the results:

438 Responses: 55.7% Pass the entire $1.9 trillion plan, 11.9% Pass the entire $618 billion plan, 20.6% Compromise and meet in the middle, 1.4% Offer a new plan altogether, 10.4% Other

If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or need assistance with a federal agency, reach out to us through our website or by calling the district office at 858-455-5550.

To stay updated on my work throughout the week, you can also follow my social media accounts by clicking on the icons below.

Stay safe and be well,