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Dear friend,
I hope you and your loved ones continue to stay safe and well. As we head into the last few months of the year that usually include gatherings with friends and families, we should all be vigilant about our safety and the safety of those around us.
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
Introduction of the Carbon Removal, Efficient Agencies, Technology Expertise (CREATE) Act
I joined Reps. Annie Kuster (D-NH), David McKinley (R-WV), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Anthony Gonzalez (R-OH), Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE), Tom O'Halleran (D-AZ), David Schweikert (R-AZ) and Diana DeGette (D-CO) to introduce the CREATE Act, which would tackle the issue of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere.
This bipartisan legislation mobilizes various areas of government to research, develop, and demonstrate carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technology. It directs federal agencies to include the development of CDR in their annual budget requests and ensure this work is coordinated across the federal government.
To avert the devastating consequences of global warming, we must invest in innovative solutions that remove carbon from our atmosphere. This comprehensive portfolio of carbon removal technology will be crucial in protecting our planet, promoting a clean energy economy and building a more sustainable future for our country and the planet.
District Work
Meeting with Ocean Beach Networking Group
On Tuesday, I met with members of the Ocean Beach Networking Group, a group of Ocean Beach business owners and residents. The networking group meets every week to share updates and foster connections in the community.
During this discussion, I updated the group on my work in Congress and responded to questions on housing, homelessness, immigration, climate change and addressing methane emissions, and health care.
Meeting with Society of Addiction Professionals
(SD-SOAP)
On Wednesday, I met with members of the San Diego Society of Addiction Professionals (SOAP.) This group supports individuals and families struggling with addiction issues by facilitating collaboration among community leaders and professionals, and enhancing education opportunities and access to resources to maximize positive recovery outcomes.
We had a great discussion on how my office can engage in much-needed resources for mental health and addiction programs. We also discussed the stigma surrounding addiction, and the importance of awareness and open conversations on this topic.
Meeting with Interns
On Thursday, I spoke with interns currently working with my district office. They provided updates on the work they're doing, including their legislative research and how this opportunity has helped them learn new things about our government.
I also shared my thoughts on what the next Congress might be able to deliver for the country.
If you're interested in pursuing an internship with my office, click here for more information.
Meeting with San Diego Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects
On Tuesday, I joined the San Diego Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects for a panel on resilient design and climate change. During this meeting, I discussed relevant elements of my Climate Playbook, the need for bipartisan climate action, the role of landscape architects in future infrastructure plans, and opportunities for climate-conscious design in landscaping.
This Week's Casework Success Story
Ron from University City contacted the office at the beginning of June to request assistance with the IRS. He filed his 2019 tax return in late March and had not received his anticipated refund of over $18,000. After contacting the IRS, my district staff was made aware of a few discrepancies on Ron's return that required additional documentation to rectify. My staff worked with Ron to obtain the necessary documents and pass along to the IRS. On Friday, he received a check for $18,869.18.
FEMA Disaster Relief
The FEMA Individuals and Housing Program is available to all eligible renters and homeowners in San Diego County affected by recent wildfires.
Federal funds may help pay for temporary housing and other needs not covered by insurance. The initial rental award is for two months and may be reviewed for further assistance.
Renters may also qualify for an award under FEMA's Other Needs Assistance Program to cover essential personal property and disaster-related expenses, including replacement or repair of furniture, appliances, clothing, school supplies, job-related equipment, and medical and/or dental bills. Click here to sign up or for additional assistance.
Information on Voting in Person for the 2020 Election on Nov. 3
If you haven't voted by mail yet, you can still vote early and in person at your assigned polling place starting tomorrow. Polling places will be open through Monday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Early in-person voting is also underway at the San Diego County Registrar of Voters. Voting before election day is encouraged to avoid crowds and long lines.
For more information, including a list of polling place locations and COVID-19 protocols to ensure the health and safety of election workers and voters, click here.
To stay up to date on my work throughout the week, you can follow me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
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.
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