Legislative Work
Energy Innovation & Carbon Dividend Act Introduction
We can't save the planet without making every single person an actor in this crucial effort; placing a price on carbon does that.
Yesterday, I joined Representatives Ted Deutch (FL-22), Judy Chu (CA-27), Charlie Crist (FL-13), and Anna Eshoo (CA-18) to introduce the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act, which establishes a carbon pricing system that returns 100% of the revenue to American families. The bill is poised to reduce emissions, empower markets to transition to a low-carbon economy, and immediately work to slow climate change.
Briefing with Local Leaders & Stakeholders about new Community Project Funding
For the first time in almost a decade, the House Appropriations Committee will be accepting Community Project Funding requests. This initiative allows Members of Congress to target federal funds towards projects and programs in their respective congressional districts that will address the most significant needs facing the communities they represent.
On Tuesday, I hosted a briefing with over 35 San Diego leaders to cover the new Community Project Funding process. I was joined by my best friend in Congress, Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06), who is a member of the Appropriations Committee and initiated the revival of community funding through his role as Chair of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress.
District Work
National Vietnam War Veterans Day 2021
Monday marked National Vietnam War Veterans Day, which recognizes the withdrawal of the last combat troops from Vietnam in 1973.
San Diego is a better place because it is the home of so many veterans who have served in the name of our country. Many of our nation's Vietnam veterans, as they returned home decades ago, did not receive the gratitude they deserved nor an acknowledgement of their sacrifices made during this conflict.
I send my heartfelt thanks, gratitude, and appreciation to all our Vietnam Veterans and their families.
Click here to watch my message to Vietnam veterans in light of this special day.
Virtual Las Mañanitas Breakfast for César Chávez Day
Wednesday was César Chávez Day, which honors the life and legacy of César Chávez, a pioneer of civil rights. Through his leadership and altruism, Chávez improved working and living conditions for migrant farm laborers across the country.
I attended the Cesar Chavez Service Clubs' Las Mañanitas Breakfast to celebrate the resilience and accomplishments of the organization's Chavistas - student leaders in the San Diego community. It was a pleasure to hear from these inspiring young people about their achievements.
Navy Broadway Complex Site Visit
I send a big thank you to Navy Region Southwest's CAPT Ovios and new Executive Director Mark Keck for giving me a tour of the new Broadway Complex building on Wednesday. The state-of-the-art facility will serve as an excellent workplace for our hardworking Sailors and civilian workforce as they fulfill our national security objectives. We discussed COVID-19 protocol, current operations, and ways Congress can support San Diego's Sailors, and I'm grateful for their service and sacrifices on behalf of our nation.
Meeting with Consul General of Canada
I met with the Consul General of Canada Zaib Shaikh to discuss trade relations and joint efforts to combat the ongoing climate crisis. Trade between Canada and San Diego is valued at over $800 million and supports 12,000 jobs. We should leverage those relationships to increase cooperation in areas such as wildfire prevention and carbon pricing - two issues that matter to both San Diegans and Canadians. I look forward to continuing our work together for a better future.
World Trade Center San Diego Go Global Event
On Thursday, I kicked off the World Trade Center San Diego Go Global: San Diego's Trade and Investment Initiative along with Mayor Todd Gloria and various local business leaders. The binational relationship between San Diego and Tijuana presents a unique opportunity to increase our global footprint by expanding the local economy and creating jobs through international investments and exports. I look forward to supporting this initiative as we work together to build a better San Diego.
This week's casework success story
Staff Sergeant Barnes requested my assistance with Basic Allowance for Housing funds for off-post living expenses he applied for and was denied. After being denied again, our inquiry initiated an investigation. It was determined that he applied correctly with his chain of command and was entitled to reimbursement for his earned benefit. On Thursday, he received $9,300 in retroactive housing pay.
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:
President Biden released details on his new plan to rebuild America's infrastructure and reshape the economy. What investments do you think should be included in a comprehensive infrastructure package?
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: 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? Here are the results:
445 responses: 73.5% Yes. 15.5% No. 4.3% I prefer other measures to curb gun violence. 6.7% Other.
As we head into the Easter weekend, I want to wish those celebrating a blessed and joyous holiday. Continue to be safe and stay well.
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