MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Pete Aguilar (31 CD Ca)

Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar issued a report to Inland Empire residents outlining how he fought for them over the course of 2024. Rep. Aguilar prioritized securing resources for the region, creating jobs, lowering costs and promoting economic opportunity.
“As we come to the end of 2024 and the 118th Congress, I am proud to share how I’ve fought to deliver for the hardworking people of the Inland Empire,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “This year, I’ve focused on fighting for solutions that make life better for our community by pushing to lower costs, make health care more accessible and boost our economy. I am honored to serve the people of the Inland Empire in Congress and I am committed to keep working for our region in 2025.”
During 2024, Rep. Aguilar delivered for the Inland Empire by:

Helping 596 Inland Empire residents resolve outstanding issues with federal agencies, such as accessing the Social Security Administration, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Returning nearly $11 million the federal government owed to residents by federal agencies, including IRS refunds, veterans’ benefits and Social Security payments.
Announcing nearly $170 million in direct federal funding for the Inland Empire, including funding for local police and fire departments, infrastructure projects, affordable housing services, school districts and health care programs. Specifically, this includes:

$3,000,000 for the City of Highland’s SR-210 at 5th Street Interchange Improvements to support improvements at the State Route 210 and 5th Street interchange to improve traffic flow. 
$2,600,000 for the Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino’s Arrowhead Grove Community Resource Center to establish a community resource center focused on health, wellness, housing stability services and economic self-sufficiency for residents of Arrowhead Grove, San Bernardino County and Inland Empire Health Plan members.    
$1,666,279 for the Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services’ Affordable Housing Development and Preservation Program to support the preservation of an existing affordable housing multi-family unit in the City of San Bernardino
$1,000,000 for the City of Rancho Cucamonga’s Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) to support the deployment of an Advanced Traffic Management System to be responsive to real-time traffic patterns and natural disasters
$1,000,000 for the San Bernardino County’s Glen Helen Regional Park Playground Expansion to rehabilitate and greatly improve a children’s play area, addressing equipment safety concerns and the structural integrity of the playground and enhancing the recreational and aesthetic experience for visitors and residents.
$963,000 for the City of San Bernardino’s Safety Camera Project to support law enforcement in their efforts to reduce violent crime by installing safety cameras that include data analytics that can be used to monitor activity and assist with investigations.
$963,000 for California State University, San Bernardino’s Tech and Workforce Hub Project to upgrade technology where students, university faculty, community college faculty and employers will be trained on cybersecurity projects.
$959,757 for the West Valley Water District’s Bunker Hills Wells Project to support the drilling and equipping of two new groundwater production wells, storage tank, booster pump station and pipelines to transport the needed water supply to water management agencies within the Upper Santa Ana River Watershed.
$959,757 for San Bernardino County’s Arrowhead Farms project to connect 257 residential properties in the unincorporated community of Arrowhead Farms to city sewer lines. 
$875,424 for the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council’s Skyland Ranch Project to make facility improvements at Skyland Ranch Camp, which hosts outdoor and environmental education programming for Girl Scouts and co-ed schools in the region.
$850,000 for the Omnitrans’ Battery Electric Buses and Design of On-Route Charging Infrastructure to purchase three new zero-emission electric buses and on-route charging stations for San Bernardino’s fleet to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve public transit. 
$850,000 for the City of Rialto’s I-10/Riverside Avenue Freight Improvement Project to support critical improvements along Riverside Avenue, including extending northbound left-turn lanes and adding continuous sidewalks. These upgrades will ease traffic congestion and improve pedestrian safety, benefiting both local commuters and the flow of freight in and out of the region.
$850,000 for the City of San Bernardino to renovate and restore the Nicholson Community Center to include access to health care, a food pantry, after-school programs and access to substance abuse prevention and mental health programs.
$500,000 for the Blessing Center’s Hannah’s Village to make improvements to the center’s current transitional housing program that serves at-risk women and children in our community, constructing 26 additional living spaces for up to 30 new mothers and nearly 70 homeless children.
$525,000 for the West Valley Water District Emergency Generator Project to enhance water reliability during emergency situations. The project will keep WVWD’s pump stations and wells operating during power outages.

Throughout the past year, Rep. Aguilar fought for legislation to help San Bernardino County families by:

Passing the Dr. Margaret B. Hill Post Office Bill and getting it signed into law. This bill will rename the Del Rosa Post Office to honor the late Dr. Margaret B. Hill, a beloved educator and community advocate who passed away in December 2021. 
Creating the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Supportive Services program at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which is based on Rep. Aguilar’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Expansion Act. This program will allow the FAA to provide technical assistance and training to DBEs competing for FAA grants. 
Passing the University Centers for Growth, Development, Prosperity (GDP) Act under the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). This bill requires the EDA to create a University Center at an Institute of Higher Education in every state.
Introducing the Affordable Housing Resident Services Act, which would provide funding to owners of affordable housing properties to offer supportive services for their residents.
Introducing the bipartisan National GIS Day Resolution to designate November 20, 2024, as National GIS Day and encourage the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to drive economic growth.
Securing $2.5 million for the Affordable Housing and Supportive Services Demonstration program that Rep. Aguilar helped create in 2023. This program provides funding to owners of affordable housing properties to support their residents, including after-school programs for children and teenagers; education opportunities for youth and adult residents; mental health, alcohol and addiction treatment; self-sufficiency resources; resources on future home ownership; financial literacy training; elderly care; assistance to residents with disabilities; and other community services.
Securing the following wins in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA):

New study authorization focused on Flood Risk Management for the Rialto Flood Control Channel, which will finish the last unimproved portion of the channel from Sycamore Avenue just south of the I-10 freeway and continue further southward to the Santa Ana River. Improvements include the construction of 1.8 miles of a reinforced concrete channel. 
New study authorization focused on Flood Risk Management for San Bernardino’s Del Rosa Flood Control Channel. The County plans to make substantial improvements to 2.5 miles of the existing flood control channel along Del Rosa Avenue from Pacific Street to Daley Basin. This expansion project would upgrade the interim earthen channel by constructing the ultimate rectangular concrete channel and increasing the flow capacity of undersized box culvert street crossings. 
$20 million in Environmental Infrastructure (EI) authority for water and wastewater infrastructure, including stormwater management, for Bloomington.
$20 million in Environmental Infrastructure (EI) authority for water and wastewater infrastructure, including stormwater management, for Colton.
$10 million in Environmental Infrastructure (EI) authority for water and wastewater infrastructure, including stormwater management, for Grand Terrace.

Hosting Federal Agency Officials in the District:

Hosted U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra to highlight the investments Congressman Aguilar secured to make health care more affordable and equitable in the Inland Empire.
Hosted Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Isabel Guzman to highlight small businesses in the Inland Empire. Rep. Aguilar and Administrator Guzman also hosted a roundtable, where they heard directly from local small business owners about the issues impacting them and their employees.
Hosted U.S. Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo at Eisenhower High School where Rep. Aguilar and Deputy Secretary Adeyemo participated in a Q&A session with the Senior class.
Hosted U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce Alejandra Castillo to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new workforce training center at the San Bernardino Valley College.
Hosted Chief Executive Officer of Federal Home Loan Bank San Francisco (FHL Bank) Teresa Bazemore, National CORE and additional housing partners in a roundtable discussion on housing affordability and housing development issues.  
Joined the Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose at San Bernardino County Transportation Authority’s unveiling of the Arrow Passenger Rail Service between Redlands and San Bernardino, which will be the first zero-emission, self-powered passenger train in North America.
Joined Harry Wingo, White House Deputy National Cyber Director, at CSUSB’s Cybersecurity Education event. The forum gathered leaders from academia, industry, and state and federal government to demonstrate the potential of cyber workforce ecosystems and how these groups are working together to create a successful partnership in California.

Rep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and as a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Pete Aguilar (31 CD Ca)

Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced that his bill to rename the Del Rosa Post Office to honor the late Dr. Margaret B. Hill, a longtime educator and community advocate, was signed into law by President Biden on November 25, 2024.
“Dr. Margaret Hill was the heartbeat of the San Bernardino community and touched the lives of every person she met,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “She dedicated her life to making our community stronger through her work as an educator and youth empowerment leader. I am honored to have led this effort to enshrine her name in San Bernardino, and I hope this tribute will inspire us all to continue her legacy for years to come.”“We are beyond excited to finally see Dr. Margaret Hill’s legacy honored at our local post office,” said Erika Johnson, Dr. Hill’s niece. “On behalf of the family, we would like to thank Rep. Pete Aguilar, Curt Lewis and the team whose commitment has made this possible. It is our hopes that when people see Dr. Margaret Hill’s name it will encourage them to lead with kindness, love and to continue pursuing their dreams to make the community a better place. We take pride in knowing that her legacy will continue to bring light to those in the Inland Empire.”“The legacy of Dr. Margaret Hill has been a testament of the work that has inspired many in the City and County of San Bernardino,” said Dr. Gwen Dowdy Rodgers. “I am excited to see this project completed, and I look forward to celebrating with the community.”“In honoring Dr. Margaret Hill, we celebrate not only her remarkable contributions to our community but also the enduring legacy of love, wisdom, and service that she has instilled in us all,” said Terrance Stone, Founder and CEO Of Young Visionaries Youth Leadership Academy. “May the post office bearing her name in San Bernardino serve as a beacon of her dedication, reminding us that our greatest strength lies in lifting each other up. With gratitude, Terrance Stone.”“The naming this facility in honor of Dr. Margaret Hill is a great example of our democracy at work,” said Alton L. Garrett, Jr., President, Westside Action Group (WAG). “Through the gallant efforts of Westside Action Group (WAG) and other organizations in coordination with the office of Congressman Pete Aguilar, the naming (“Dr. Margaret B. Hill Post Office Building”) of this postal facility will ensure that Dr. Hill’s outstanding work and love for her community will always be in the forefront.”
Dr. Hill, who passed away in December 2021, devoted her life’s work to ensuring that children in the Inland Empire, specifically black and brown students, have access to high-quality education. In 1971, Dr. Hill began her work in public service as a high school teacher at San Bernardino High School. She later went on to serve as a principal, an Assistant Superintendent of San Bernardino County, an adjunct professor and as the first Black member of the San Bernardino City Unified School District school board. 
Rep. Aguilar’s effort to rename the post office was endorsed by: National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa – Delta Rho Chapter, Athletes for Life, First Five San Bernardino Commission, Black Cultural Foundation, Kiwanis of Greater San Bernardino, San Bernardino African American Policy Advisory and Time for Change Foundation.
Rep. Aguilar first introduced the bill in March 2022. After reintroducing the bill in February 2023, it passed the House and Senate with unanimous, bipartisan support.The newly renamed Dr. Margaret B. Hill Post Office Building will be located at 1663 E. Date Place in San Bernardino, California.
Rep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and as a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Pete Aguilar (31 CD Ca)

Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced a $625,000 grant award for the San Bernardino Police Department (SBPD) to hire five new law enforcement officers and support their community policing capacity and crime-prevention efforts.“This funding will put more officers on the beat to help address crime and give our residents peace of mind,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “Investing in programs that strengthen the partnership between San Bernardino residents and law enforcement makes our community safer and stronger. This grant will support SBPD’s efforts to enhance their community policing capacity and restore public confidence in the safety of our city.”
“The COPS Hiring Program (CHP) Grant will provide five more officers dedicated to continuing the excellent service that has led to a year-over-year reduction in violent crime and a 66% reduction in homicides since 2022,” said Darren Goodman, Chief of Police, San Bernardino Police Department. 
“The $625,000 COPS Hiring Program will allow the City of San Bernardino to increase our police staffing, create a safer environment for our residents and businesses, and build trust within the community,” said San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran. “We are deeply grateful for this investment in our city’s future and remain committed to fostering a strong and secure San Bernardino.”
The funding comes as part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program (CHP) under the Biden-Harris Administration’s Safer America Plan. It includes a $157 million investment in the COPS Hiring Program (CHP) to create effective and accountable community policing initiatives in 235 law enforcement agencies throughout the country. The COPS Hiring Award will allow the San Bernardino Police Department to hire five new officers for the Patrol Division, enhancing their ability to respond to violent and gun-related crimes. Additionally, the funding will also support the Quality-of-Life Team, which addresses homelessness, and the Community Outreach and Support Team (COAST), which assists residents experiencing mental health issues.
Rep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and as a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Pete Aguilar (31 CD Ca)

Today, as Geographic Information System (GIS) users around the world showcase their work, Congressmen Pete Aguilar (D-CA) and John Curtis (R-UT) introduced a resolution officially designating November 20, 2024, as National GIS Day. The resolution encourages GIS users to continue to innovate and use GIS as a tool to analyze and address today’s societal challenges and drive economic growth.
“The Geographic Information System (GIS) is a critical mapping technology that has changed how we’re able to get from Point A to Point B in our daily lives and fosters economic growth by improving the tools that many businesses use to operate,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “I am proud to reintroduce this resolution alongside Rep. Curtis in honor of National GIS Day. I applaud the work of those in the GIS field who are driving our country toward a smarter and more innovative future.”“We take for granted the ability of our mobile devices to help us navigate from point to point,” said Rep. John Curtis. “Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are central to how we move ourselves and our goods around the world. I applaud the advancements and work of the GIS community for making everyday activities possible. I am proud to once again introduce this resolution with Representative Aguilar and recognize today as National GIS Day.” 
“As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of GIS Day, I want to thank Congressmen Aguilar and Curtis for their leadership in introducing the House Resolution marking the occasion.  Geographic Information Systems continue to have a transformative effect on all segments of the economy and play a key role in government decision making.  These tools help our national security agencies as they work to keep Americans safe, enable companies and nonprofit organizations to undertake advanced locational planning, and support the response to natural disasters affecting our communities.  I appreciate Congress’s ongoing support of geospatial investments throughout the federal government and the important information included in this year’s GIS Day resolution.” Jack Dangermond, President, Esri.
“The GPS Innovation Alliance commends Representatives Curtis and Aguilar for recognizing the power of geographic information systems, combined with position, navigation, and timing signals from Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites, to deliver lifesaving and timesaving benefits for their constituents, people across the United States, and around the globe. GIS and GPS are also economic powerhouses, unleashing efficiencies in transportation, infrastructure, agriculture, the environment, and more. Visits to our national and state parks are enhanced thanks to creative GIS + GPS technologies designed for the fitness and adventure communities. Thank you for honoring American innovations with this resolution.” Lisa Dyer, Executive Director, GPS Innovation Alliance
“Every day, new and exciting applications of geospatial data, services, and technology are brought to the market for the benefit of individual citizens, government at all levels, and private enterprise. Many of these are portrayed, visualized, and accessed in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). These utilizations of “where” add value to almost any other types of data and make a significant contribution to our economy and quality of life. The investment the Federal government makes in these location-based data provides a significant return on investment and is leveraged for billions of dollars in business activity and creates or supports tens of thousands of jobs. This resolution helps bring attention to GIS and its role in economic growth and development, protection of the environment, and many of other important activities and we commend Congressmen Aguilar and Curtis for introducing the GIS Day resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives. ” — John Palatiello, President and Founder, U.S. Geospatial Executives Organization (U.S. GEO)
“The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) commends Representatives Curtis and Aguilar for their leadership and initiative introducing the GIS Day resolution. The land surveying profession and GIS community are working hand in hand in mapping and cataloging the Nations vast infrastructure, disaster planning and recovery efforts, floodplain management, natural resources, and other important public policies for the protection and safety of the public.” — Davey Edwards, PhD, PLS, LSLS, CFedS, NSPS President.
“On behalf of MAPPS, the largest national association representing firms in the geospatial and GIS industry, I wish to express my appreciation to Representatives Curtis and Aguilar for sponsoring the GIS Day resolution.  For over six decades, GIS has grown from a concept to an indispensable technology. National GIS Day reminds us of the powerful contributions of GIS professionals, whose work helps to chart a better future. This day offers us an opportunity to spotlight their impact, showcasing how GIS not only fuels economic growth but also strengthens the foundations of resilient and informed societies. MAPPS is proud to stand alongside our members and all GIS practitioners as we celebrate the remarkable journey and vital role of GIS in shaping a more connected, informed, and sustainable world.” — Kelly Francis, President of the Management Association for Private Photogrammetric Surveyors (MAPPS) 
Rep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and as a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Pete Aguilar (31 CD Ca)

Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced $5,120,000 in grant funding for SAC Health System’s Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education Family Medicine, Pediatrics and Psychology Programs. The funding comes as part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) Program. 
“Ensuring that underserved and rural communities in the Inland Empire have equal access to high-quality, affordable health care is crucial to the health and well-being of our community,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “This grant will help bolster SAC Health System as they work to improve the shortage of physicians in our community, helping to close the gap in health care access and address long-standing disparities”
“SAC Health System is deeply grateful for ongoing funding provided by Health Resources and Services Administration, Bureau of Health Workforce and for Congressman Aguilar’s ongoing commitment to our Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education Program,” said Dr. Jason Lohr, President and CEO of SAC Health. “With support from HRSA, on an annual basis, thirty-two residents benefit from this funding, alongside over three hundred other residents learn the importance and value of community health.  
This support has enabled medical residents of family medicine, pediatrics, and psychiatry to enhance their skills in delivering high-quality care, especially within underserved communities, and to develop the necessary competencies to effectively serve our diverse populations.”  
With this funding, SAC Health System will expand its primary care residency programs, training residents to deliver quality care tailored to diverse and underserved populations. 
For over 65 years, SAC Health System has provided affordable health care services to the Inland Empire, primarily serving uninsured patients and their families. The organization completes around 180,000 visits annually, delivering comprehensive medical, surgical, dental and behavioral health services to meet the needs of the community.
Rep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and as a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

20 February 2025

Contact: Liam Forsythe

liam.forsythe@mail.house.gov

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44), a member of the Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Health, led 19 of her colleagues in a letter urging the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to reinstate the collection of demographic data and requirement for health equity plans at the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI).

CMMI develops and tests health care payment and service delivery models to improve patient care, lower costs, and align payment systems to promote patient-centered practices in Medicare, Medicaid, and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, CMMI announced it would no longer collect data from its payment model participants on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, and preferred language, and that it would remove all requirements for CMMI payment models to submit health equity plans, which are aimed at measuring and addressing health disparities.

“The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation plays a vital role in lowering costs for the healthcare system and ensuring our communities receive the quality care they deserve,” said Rep. Barragán. “Demographic data, such as data on race and ethnicity, is an essential resource for identifying and addressing inequities. This information can be used to make our healthcare system more efficient and improve the health of underserved communities, benefiting all of us. I urge the Trump Administration to swiftly reverse course and take action to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live a long, healthy life regardless of their background.”

“Community Catalyst is deeply concerned about CMMI’s decision to stop collecting data on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, and preferred language. This move disregards progress from initiatives like the AHC Model, which improved access to services and addressed health-related social needs for historically excluded communities. Data showed that Black, Hispanic, and other non-white Medicare beneficiaries who engaged with navigation services experienced lower Medicare costs, fewer emergency visits, and reduced hospital admissions,” said Brandon G. Wilson, interim co-president & CEO at Community Catalyst. “Health care is rapidly changing, but too often, those most affected—especially communities long harmed by systemic racism, classism, and other forms of oppression—are left out of decisions about their care. Health innovations can’t succeed without centering these voices from the start. Without data on diverse populations, resources risk being allocated toward models that fail to reflect their true effectiveness or value for all—undermining both cost-effectiveness and quality improvement. Ending this data collection hinders CMMI’s ability to identify what works, ultimately increasing costs without delivering better care. CMMI must prioritize inclusive data to achieve better coverage, better care, and better health for everyone.”

In addition to urging HHS and CMS to immediately rescind these changes, the letter requests specific information on the cost implications of these decisions to determine the impact on beneficiaries and their caregivers.

In addition to Barragán, the letter is signed by Reps. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Gilbert Cisneros (CA-31), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ted Lieu (CA-36), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Grace Meng (NY-06), Dave Min (CA-47), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Darren Soto (FL-09), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

The letter is endorsed by Community Catalyst. 

The full text of the letter can be found here.

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Congressmember Nanette Barragán represents California’s 44^th District.  She sits on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and works on environmental justice, healthcare, and digital equity issues. 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

20 February 2025

Contact: Liam.Forsythe@mail.house.gov

Legislation prioritizes investments in environmental justice communities 

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswomen Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44) and Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) reintroduced a bill that would create a federal program to build clean energy microgrids to power critical infrastructure for communities in the aftermath of an extreme weather event or power shut-off.

The Energy Resilient Communities Act takes a significant step forward in energy equity and environmental justice, by prioritizing grant applications from low-income communities and communities of color for clean energy microgrid grants. These grants will help combat power outages and rolling blackouts, reduce pollution, create green jobs, and fight the climate crisis. 

“As wildfires, hurricanes and other climate disasters become more frequent and severe, we must ensure that communities—especially those historically overburdened by pollution and energy shortages—have access to reliable, clean power,” said Rep. Barragán. “The Energy Resilient Communities Act invests in clean energy microgrids, ensuring hospitals, fire stations, and essential services stay online when disaster strikes. This bill will create good-paying jobs, lower energy costs, and strengthen our clean energy future.”

“As communities in every corner of our nation continue to face extreme weather events and other natural disasters brought on by the climate crisis, the need to fortify their climate resiliency and bridge long standing environmental disparities remains abundantly clear. Congress cannot and must not leave vulnerable Americans to fend for themselves in the face of this existential emergency, and that’s why I’m proud to stand with Congresswoman Barragán to reintroduce the Energy Resilient Communities Act,” said Rep. Clarke. “This critical legislation will empower at-risk communities with the resources they need to develop clean energy microgrids, ensuring they’ll keep power through whatever challenges this crisis may bring.”

Energy Resilient Communities Act Highlights:

• Authorizes $50 million in annual grants for technical assistance and $1.5 billion in annual grants for clean energy microgrids to support the critical infrastructure needed in the aftermath of an extreme weather event. 
• A minimum of $150 million of annual authorized funding is reserved for grants supporting the construction of community-owned energy systems. 
• State and local governments, territories, political subdivisions of the state, tribal agencies, utilities, and non-profits can apply for grants. 
• Grants are prioritized for applications from environmental justice communities. 
• Examples of critical infrastructure include hospitals, grocery stores, community centers, public safety facilities, water systems, public or affordable housing, medical baseline customers, and senior housing. 
• Projects are additionally prioritized based on several criteria, including how effectively they reduce pollution and improve public health, whether they are built on previously disturbed land, whether they provide contracts for women and minority owned businesses, their utilization of apprenticeships, and whether the proposed project will be a community-owned energy system. 
• The maximum federal cost share of 60%, except for environmental justice communities, where the maximum federal cost share is 90%. 
• Includes Buy American provisions to maximize the creation of American manufacturing jobs in the production of materials and technology for microgrids. 
• There are worker hiring targets for each project to maximize the number of local and economically disadvantaged workers, including those who live in environmental justice communities or were displaced from a previous job in the energy sector. 

The bill can be found here. 

Reps. Barragán and Clarke were joined by 30 original cosponsors of the Energy Resilient Communities Act: Hank Johnson, Emmanuel Cleaver, Andre Carson, Troy Carter, Suzanne Bonamici, Ro Khanna, Rashida Tlaib, Steve Cohen, Paul Tonko, Kevin Mullin, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Jerrold Nadler, Melanie Stansbury, Pramila Jayapal, Mary Gay Scanlon, Raul Grijalva, Ed Case, Jared Huffman, Jared Moskowitz, Jill Tokuda, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Mike Quigley, Shri Thanedar, Andrea Salinas, Chellie Pingree, Johnny Olszewski, Kathy Castor, Yassamin Ansari, Doris Matsui.

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Congressmember Nanette Barragán represents California’s 44^th District.  She sits on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and works on environmental justice, healthcare, and digital equity issues. 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 19, 2025

Contact: Liam.Forsythe@mail.house.gov

CARSON, CA — Today, U.S. Representative Nanette Barragán (CA-44) joined Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Superintendent Alberto Carvalho, a parent, and student at Stephen M. White Middle School to denounce the Trump administration’s reported plans to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. The proposed elimination of the department would strip critical funding from public schools, putting millions of students at risk.

“The Trump administration’s plan to eliminate the Department of Education is reckless, illegal, and harmful to our students,” said Rep. Barragán. “This move would devastate funding for low-income schools, eliminate protections for students with disabilities, and make college less accessible for working families. We cannot let this happen.”

The Department of Education plays a crucial role in funding essential programs such as:

• Pell Grants that help low-income students afford college.
• Title I funding that supports schools in underserved communities.
• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funding that ensures students with disabilities receive the resources they need.
• Federal protections against discrimination to safeguard LGBTQ+ students, students of color, and other vulnerable populations.

“Los Angeles Unified is proud of the educational progress our students have made over the past two years after the learning loss endured during the pandemic,” said Los Angeles Unified Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho. “Now, more than ever, our students will continue to rely on all available funding sources to support their academic success and social-emotional wellbeing as they get ready for college, career and life. With nearly $1.3 billion of our District budget coming from the federal government, federal education programs such as Title I and IDEA help support our most vulnerable students including low-income and those with disabilities. Funding cuts for these programs could compromise our ability to provide essential services and resources to students and families.”

The press conference also featured a student and parent who shared personal stories about how federal education funding has shaped their academic success.

Rep. Barragán concluded with a call to action, urging community members to stand together in defense of public education. “This is not about partisan politics. It’s about the future of our children, our communities, and our country. House Democrats will fight to protect the Department of Education and ensure every student has access to the resources they need to succeed.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 18, 2025
Contact: Liam Forsythe, (202) 225-8220
liam.forsythe@mail.house.gov

LONG BEACH, CA – Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) joined L.A. Care Health Plan, Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson, health care providers, and community advocates to highlight the critical role Medicaid plays in ensuring access to quality health care for millions of Americans. The press conference, held at the L.A. Care and Blue Shield Promise Community Resource Center, underscored the devastating impact that proposed Republican cuts to Medicaid would have on working families, seniors, children, and individuals with disabilities.

“Medicaid is a lifeline for more than 10.4 million Californians,” said Congresswoman Barragán. “It ensures that families, children, seniors, and people with disabilities can see a doctor, afford their prescriptions, and get the in-home care they need to live with dignity. The Republican proposals to slash Medicaid funding would rip this safety net away from those who need it most, putting lives at risk and increases costs for everyone.”

“Medicaid is a lifeline for millions of families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities here in Long Beach and across the country. In fact, 36% of Long Beach residents are enrolled in Medi-Cal not to mention those enrolled in Covered California,” said Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson. “Any attempt to cut these critical resources is an attack on our most vulnerable neighbors. We are here today to send a clear message: We will fight to protect and expand access to quality health care, not roll it back. I stand with Congresswoman Barragan, L.A. Care, and our health care advocates in ensuring that every resident—regardless of income—has the care they need and deserve.”

“Federal proposals to cut Medicaid funding, impose work requirements, or shift costs to states threaten Medi-Cal’s stability. These cuts would reduce coverage, limit access to doctors and mental health services, and eliminate critical benefits like dental and vision care,” said Martha Santana-Chin, CEO of L.A. Care Health Plan, the nation’s largest publicly operated health plan. “We recognize that Washington faces tough budget decisions, but balancing the budget should not come at the expense of working families, seniors, and children. Healthcare is not a partisan issue—it’s a human one.” 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

21 January 2024

Contact: Kevin G. McGuire | 202-538-2386

Kevin.mcguire@mail.house.gov

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (D-CA) introduced the “Commitment to Environmental Justice Act,” to lock-in a government-wide commitment to environmental justice by federal agencies. The bill is in response to several of President Donald Trump’s first day Executive Orders that aim to roll-back the federal government’s progress on environmental justice and equity.

By codifying President Biden’s Executive Order 14096, “Revitalizing Our Nation’s Commitment to Environmental Justice for All,” the bill ensures that prioritizing environmental justice remains a core responsibility of federal agencies, regardless of changes in administration.

“Every federal agency must have environmental justice as a guiding principle for their work,” said Congresswoman Barragán. “This legislation makes sure that the most vulnerable communities are not forgotten, and that our government will continue to protect clean air and clean water for communities of color and disadvantaged communities.”

By codifying Executive Order 14096, the Commitment to Environmental Justice Act will defend overburdened communities from the disproportionate environmental and health impacts they face, and mandate federal agencies to integrate environmental justice into their missions and actions permanently.

The Commitment to Environmental Justice Act is cosponsored by Representatives Paul Tonko Pramila Jayapal, Mark Takano, André Carson, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rashida Tlaib, Melanie Stansbury, Yassamin Ansari, Raul Grijalva, Jared Huffman, and Jennifer McClellan.  

A copy of the bill can be found here.  

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Congressmember Nanette Barragán represents California’s 44^th District.  She sits on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and works on environmental justice and healthcare issues.  She is a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and is a Co-Chair of the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee.