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Dear friend,
We marked the end of 2022 in Congress by passing a government funding package, also known as the omnibus. This legislation includes many victories for San Diego, including language to allow for the Environmental Protection Agency to transfer funds to the International Boundary and Water Commission to tackle cross-boundary water pollution. The bill also includes funding for 14 community projects I advocated for, totaling $33,764,000 for CA-52!
The end of this year also means I say goodbye to neighborhoods that will become part of new congressional districts in 2023. I will miss serving these places and look forward to getting to know the new communities of CA-50. For a summary of my work in Congress in 2022, click here.
As we get together with loved ones, it's important to stay safe and up to date with COVID-19 and flu vaccines. For more information on how to protect yourself and others, visit the CDC website.
Below is another update on the work my staff and I have done recently to serve you.
This Week's Casework Story
Hema from San Diego contacted my office in November regarding an issue with her social security benefits. Due to overpayment, SSA had stopped her monthly payments to recover the money. My staff submitted an inquiry to find out if the problem was resolved. This month, SSA notified my office that Hema will be receiving $2,481 a month in SSA benefits.
President Zelenskyy Addresses Joint Meeting of Congress to Urge Support for Ukraine
On Tuesday, I attended a joint meeting of Congress to hear Ukrainian President Zelenskyy speak on the House floor. During his inspiring speech, he highlighted the ongoing need for American support as Ukraine continues facing Russian aggression. Most importantly, he said that money from the U.S. is not charity; it's an investment in our global security. Standing with Ukraine means standing for democracy. It was an honor to have President Zelenskyy in Congress for him to share his powerful message.
Giving Back this Holiday Season
On Wednesday, members of my district staff volunteered at PATH San Diego. They helped prepare and served dinner to the people who live in the residential community. Since 2013, PATH has helped over 7,500 people move off the streets and into permanent homes. They provide services in more than 140 cities in California. Thank you to the staff at PATH for giving my office an opportunity to give back this holiday season!
San Diego Celebrates Signing of Respect for Marriage Act
Last week, my staff attended a ceremony at the San Diego LGBT Community Center to celebrate President Biden's signing of the Respect for Marriage Act into law. This law recognizes any marriage between two individuals that is valid under state law. The Center is a pillar of San Diego's LGBTQ+ community and I'm so grateful we were able to get this critical legislation past the finish line.
Thank you for your continued trust in me as your representative in Congress. I wish you a Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and happy new year!
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