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Rep. Mike Levin, Solana Beach Mayor Heebner Highlight Risks of Looming Government Shutdown

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

Solana Beach, CA —

Yesterday, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) joined Solana Beach Mayor Lesa Heebner and other local officials to outline to potential impacts of a federal government shutdown on Solana Beach and communities across California’s 49th District.

Federal funding is set to expire on September 30th, and without congressional action, a shutdown could delay or eliminate about $16.6 million dollars in support for local projects.

More than a dozen projects in North County San Diego and South Orange County are at risk. They include the following:

  • Buena Vista Lagoon Enhancement Project, Oceanside

  • Carlsbad Village Railroad Double Track Trenching, Carlsbad

  • Coast Highway Sidewalk Gap Closure, Dana Point

  • Emerald Drive Complete Streets Project, Vista

  • Fleet Modernization, Orange County

  • Glencreast Safe Routes to School, Solana Beach

  • Interstate 5 Improvement Project, Orange County

  • La Novia Avenue Bridge Replacement Project, San Juan Capistrano

  • Mariposa Walkway and Coastal Rail Trail Improvement Act, San Clemente

  • North Coast Highway 101 Drainage Improvements Project, Encinitas

  • Pier View Bridge, Oceanside

  • Positive Train Control Rail Safety Enhancement Project, Oceanside

  • San Dieguito Lagoon Shoreline Protection Project, Del Mar

  • Vista Permanent Navigation Center, Vista
    • Rep. Levin stressed that the effects of a shutdown would extend beyond infrastructure and community projects. He explained that unless Congress extends the Affordable Care Act’s premium tax credits, countless families could face significant increases in monthly health insurance premiums beginning next year.

    “A government shutdown isn’t just a Washington headline, it would mean real impacts for our communities,” said Rep. Levin. “From Solana Beach to San Juan Capistrano, projects that protect our coast, improve our transportation and help law enforcement, are at risk. Additionally, families could face skyrocketing health care premiums if tax credits aren’t extended. My focus when Congress resumes session is to make sure we pass a responsible funding bill that keeps our communities’ priorities and projects on track.

    Solana Beach Mayor Lesa Heebner echoed Rep. Levin’s concerns, underscoring the importance of federal partnerships. “Federal funding assistance is critical to local jurisdictions as it frees up more local funding to accomplish other community driven priorities. It allows cities to serve their communities in ways they could otherwise not afford to do,” said Solana Beach Mayor Lesa Heebner.

    Congress is scheduled to reconvene next week after more than a month-long recess. Lawmakers must reach an agreement before the September 30th deadline to avoid a government shutdown. 

    You can view the entire press conference here.

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