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Dear friend,
As COVID-19 cases continue to rise at alarming rates throughout the country, I urge you to continue washing your hands, wearing a mask and practicing social distance for your safety and that of those around you.
San Diego County is under renewed restrictions due to ICU bed capacity dropping below 15%. Be aware that county COVID-19 drive-up testing sites will temporarily convert to appointment-only due to long lines and safety concerns. Visit 2-1-1 San Diego's website for more information.
For resources and information on the temporary stay home order, small business stimulus grants and rent relief for up to $3,000, visit the county's COVID information page.
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
My Bill to Create VA Support Network Becomes Law
On Saturday night, my Sergeant Daniel Somers Veterans Network of Support Act became law. It was signed by the president as part of the bipartisan COMPACT Act, a comprehensive package of bills dedicated to reducing veteran suicide and boosting their mental health.
The Sergeant Daniel Somers Veterans Network of Support Act directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to create a network of support with designated family members and friends of veterans to help their loved ones navigate life after service. The information would specify the benefits and assistance the VA and other state and local government agencies offer to veterans, including mental health resources that could reduce the risk of suicide and potentially save lives.
The passage of this bill would have never been possible without the tireless advocacy of my constituents, Howard and Jean Somers. Their son, Army Veteran Sgt. Daniel Somers, died by suicide in 2013 after two tours in Iraq. I owe the success of this bill to them as it becomes part of their son's legacy.
Rep. Peters meets with Jean & Howard Somers to discuss progress on the bill in 2019.
The National Defense Authorization Act
On Tuesday, the House passed the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021, a bipartisan bill agreed upon by both the House and Senate that finalizes defense-related funding levels and sets policy for the coming year. It now moves to the president's desk for his signature.
The bill contains my Veteran HOUSE Act of 2020, which expands eligibility for the HUD-VA Supportive Housing (VASH) voucher program to allow veterans with other-than-honorable discharges access to supportive housing benefits.
The NDAA, which authorizes $732 billion in defense spending, includes several other wins for San Diego and the nation. To find out more, read our release on the bill, HERE.
District Work
Axios x Google Virtual Roundtable:
Powering Economic Opportunity
Axios Media Reporter Sara Fischer and Chief Technology Correspondent Ina Fried led a virtual roundtable discussion on the role of digital tools in continuing education and skills-based training. Policymakers, business leaders, and other experts shared their insights on the challenges, solutions, and the path forward for a prosperous economic recovery.
This was the third and final event in the series that focused on the educational gaps exacerbated by COVID-19, virtual education access, and the impact of the digital divide. I discussed some of the lessons we've learned so far, including the continued need for rural broadband access. Inequities in access to information lead to greater inequities in our communities, so the government is called upon to invest in this crucial infrastructure. We must also look ahead to the future and foster the growth of 5G technology to keep up with the rest of the world.
Student Loan Clinic with Student Debt Crisis and Savi
I kicked off an online webinar on student loans and debt with Student Debt Crisis and Savi, a startup connecting millions of Americans with student loan debt to better repayment and forgiveness options.
Current tuition costs hinder future opportunities for our students and make it harder for them to succeed. During our conversation, I discussed my own college experience and how I was able to afford it thanks to work-study programs and low-interest student loans. I also spoke about possible solutions, such as targeted student loan forgiveness to help those who need the most support.
This Week's Casework Success Story
UC San Diego contacted my office in October for assistance with a J1 Visa for Dr. Zahiri to come research the molecular bases of viral diseases like COVID-19 and other disorders. Dr. Zahiri had trouble scheduling an interview at a US Consulate due to service limitations at many locations. My office staff worked with UC San Diego and Dr. Zahiri to expedite his interview given the urgent nature of his research and provided a letter of consideration to support his application. This week, the US Consulate granted an expedited interview and approved Dr. Zahiri's visa shortly thereafter. He will arrive soon so he can begin his timely work.
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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