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July 30, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Mark Takano (CA-39), who is the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, released the following statement on the scheduled closure of the March Air Reserve Base exchange: 

“I am deeply concerned about the scheduled closure of the base exchange (BX) at March Air Reserve Base. Thousands of veterans and servicemembers rely on the BX every month for lower-cost goods and groceries. This closure will have a significant impact on their lives and pocketbooks. I will be speaking with my colleagues in Congress and the Biden Administration to see what can be done.”

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July 23, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representatives Mark Takano (CA-39) and Raul Ruiz (CA-25) secured an additional $50 million for Eastern Municipal Water District for desalination projects in Southern California.

The additional funds were included in the Water Resource Development Act (WRDA) that passed the House yesterday. Following final passage and signage of WRDA, a total of $100 million will be allocated to Eastern Municipal Water District to boost their South Perris Desalination Program.

The proposed Stage II of this desalination program is expected to add up to 5.4 million gallons of potable water per day for customers.

“EMWD sincerely thanks its congressional delegation for securing this very important provision in the House’s WRDA 2024 measure.” EMWD Board Vice President Stephen J. Corona said. “The language they championed in this bill will expand a critical project which has created a new and sustainable local water supply for Western Riverside County.  Thisis major win for water ratepayers in EMWD’s service area that spans four congressional districts.  We are extremely grateful for the steadfast and bipartisan support of the South Perris Groundwater Desalination program over the years — the success of this undertaking would not have been possible without these efforts.”

“Californians understand how precious water is. I am proud to authorize an additional $50 million to Eastern Municipal Water District to complete their desalination projects,” said Congressman Takano. “This funding will greatly reduce the strain of water demand in a way which is greener and cleaner than before. I am proud that nearly 12,000 households across the Inland Empire will benefit from the increased supply this treatment center will produce.”

“Creating and expanding access to local water resources is critical for the families and individuals I serve,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz. “This additional $50 million to Eastern Municipal Water District represents a significant investment in new, sustainable local water supplies that will be cleaner and more accessible than ever before.”

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July 23, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Mark Takano (CA-39) released the following statement regarding his decision not to attend Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s joint address to Congress:

“For weeks I have wrestled with whether or not to attend Prime Minister Netanyahu’s joint address before Congress. In recent months, I’ve grown increasingly troubled by Mr. Netanyahu’s actions, which have sought to further his own political survival rather than securing the return of hostages and a much-needed ceasefire. As someone who cares deeply about Israel, I recognize that any path towards a permanent peace must begin with a bilateral ceasefire. Mr. Netanyahu has consistently demonstrated that he is an obstacle to the peace that both Israelis and Palestinians alike deserve.

“It is apparent Republican leadership have given this platform to the Prime Minister in order to sow division amongst Members of Congress during this precarious time. Rather than engage in political games, I plan to meet with Israeli citizens during the morning of the address to support families that have suffered in the wake of the October 7th attack. It is critical to elevate the stories of those who were directly affected by the initial attack and who have further suffered due to Netanyahu’s indifference to securing the return of hostages still held by Hamas.

“The Prime Minister has shown us time and time again his disinterest in achieving a peace that would bring safety and security to Israelis and Palestinians. He has prolonged the conflict that arose after Hamas’s unprovoked attack, has ignored the pleas of Israeli citizens to focus on bringing home the remaining hostages, and has rebuffed concerns from Israel’s allies about the growing humanitarian cost this war is placing on innocent Palestinians. For those reasons I will not be attending the joint address.”

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July 10, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Mark Takano (CA-39) spoke in opposition to H.J.Res.165, a piece of legislation that seeks to upend recent Biden Administration updates to Title IX.

Rep. Takano released a statement in April when the Department of Education released a finalized rule to Title IX to include explicit protections for LGBTQ+ students in schools receiving federal funds. 

WATCH REP. TAKANO’S FULL REMARKS

Remarks As Prepared for Delivery:

I rise in strong opposition to the resolution.

The Biden Administration’s rule strengthens and clarifies protections against sex-based harassment and discrimination for LGBTQI+, pregnant and parenting students. Consistent with the Bostock decision, the final rule clarifies that Title IX’s protections extend to cover discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, sex characteristics, and sex stereotypes.

This is gravely needed for LGBTQI+ students. Currently, 83% of LGBTQI+ students face victimization at school. In states with laws that specifically target gay and transgender youth, the rate of hate crimes in schools has quadrupled.

For these students, the explicit protections the Biden Administration has finalized will make a life-changing difference. This rule will decrease absenteeism, improve mental health, and allow students recourse when they are the targets of harassment and violence.

Republicans, however, are seeking to overturn a rule precisely because of the protections it extends to queer students—and with the passage of this resolution, tear down ALL of the protections that this essential rule clarifies.

This resolution will have drastic consequences: the protections that the Administration offers for pregnant and parenting students would also be overturned. Survivors of sexual harassment and assault will continue to face significant barriers to completing their education.

While Republicans claim that this resolution is in the interest of women’s rights, their proposed solution will make the situation worse for female students.

What overturning this rule does is exacerbate existing inequalities, prevent any future administration from enacting a similar rule, then place the blame solely on the LGBTQI+ community. It is shortsighted, petty, and cruel.

I will vote against overturning this rule and I urge my colleagues to do the same.

I yield back.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Reps. Darren Soto (FL-09) and Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) led a letter to President Donald J. Trump and Acting Director of the Office of Personnel Management Charles Ezell expressing their concerns over reported cuts to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s budget and personnel, and the potential impact these reductions may have on the future of the Artemis space exploration program, our national aerospace industry—including at Cape Canaveral in Florida—and the broader mission of space exploration. 

“We believe the reported cuts to NASA’s budget and personnel would be unlawful because Congress has already appropriated these funds specifically for NASA. We are particularly concerned to hear about the reported layoffs at the Kennedy Space Center, where over one hundred dedicated employees have lost their jobs amid what was already a staffing crisis,” wrote the Members. “Reports indicate that more cuts could be on the way. These cuts could hinder our nation’s ability to sustain momentum in our pursuit of a Moon landing, Mars exploration, and broader space initiatives.” 

“The space race is no longer just a race for prestige; it is a race for scientific discovery, national security, and economic prosperity. Without the robust support of NASA, our country risks falling behind in these crucial areas, with other nations accelerating their own space programs and potentially surpassing us in key areas of space technology and exploration,” continued the Members. “Moreover, the space program is a source of immense national pride. It unites Americans acrosspolitical and geographical divides in our shared goal to explore the unknown, reach new heights, and inspire future generations. Any cuts to NASA’s funding undermine this critical source of inspiration and pride.”

In addition to Reps. Soto and Frost, the letter was signed by Reps. Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Troy Carter, Sr. (LA-02), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), and Haley Stevens (MI-11). 

For the full text of the letter, please click here. 

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Reps. Darren Soto (D-FL-09), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24) announced the re-introduction of H.R. 1348, the Venezuelan Adjustment Act, bipartisan legislation to adjust the status for certain Venezuelan nationals to that of lawfully admitted permanent resident (LPR) if they meet certain criteria, including entering the United States before or on December 31, 2021.

“As the Trump Administration continues stripping Venezuelans of parole, Temporary Protected Status, and other protections, it is crucial for us to come together and fight for their safety,” said Rep. Soto. “Permanent legal status would allow hard-working Venezuelans in our community to have greater stability in their pursuit of the American Dream.”   

“The oppression of the Maduro regime and the failure of socialism of the 21st century has led to the world’s worst refugee crisis. As long as Maduro forcibly remains in power, this crisis will only get worse,” said Rep. Salazar. “Hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans fled the Maduro regime and now face an uncertain future here in the United States. I am proud to reintroduce the Venezuelan Adjustment Act to provide refuge for those who have endured incredible suffering, so they do not have to return home to face the wrath of the dictatorship.”

“The Venezuelan Adjustment Act will give security and peace of mind to tens of thousands of Venezuelans who have fled a murderous, totalitarian regime,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “As Trump closes off legal pathways for migrants, we need this legislation to re-open the door for those who should have the opportunity to become permanent legal residents as Cubans have been able to for years. This bill would strengthen South Florida’s economy, keep families together, and stave off cruel threats of deportation back to the Maduro regime’s repression.”

“Maduro’s brutal regime has driven countless Venezuelans to flee the nation and seek refuge in the United States. Sending them back isn’t just wrong—it’s inhumane,” said Rep. Wilson. “I’m proud to support a legal pathway for certain Venezuelan nationals in the U.S. because abandoning them in their time of need is not an option. We must stand against oppression and support those escaping it.”

The Venezuelan Adjustment Act would provide a path to LPR status for many Venezuelan nationals who have been living in the U.S. for years and allow them to continue making significant contributions to their communities, the state of Florida, and the country. It is vital that the U.S. continue to provide safety and support to Venezuelans who have fled the political, economic, and humanitarian crisis continuing to plague Venezuela.

Political instability, endemic corruption, and repression under Nicolás Maduro’s authoritarian regime have led to massive food and medicine shortages, with millions living in poverty and suffering from food insecurity. Venezuela’s economy has contracted by more than 80% since 2014, which is more than twice the magnitude of the Great Depression in the United States. Due to the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, Venezuelans have consistently been the leading nationality requesting asylum in the United States since 2016. As of June 2023, United Nations agencies believe that over 7.3 million Venezuelans have fled the country, many of whom have resettled in neighboring countries like Colombia and Brazil.

Last month, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced the department’s decision to abandon the extension of the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Venezuela established under the Biden Administration. The Trump Administration also took decisive action to terminate the Humanitarian Parole for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans program. This decision directly impacts over 500,000 Venezuelan migrants (300,000 Venezuelans who received TPS in 2023 and 250,000 who received TPS in 2021) and hundreds of thousands of parolees. 

“The Venezuelan Adjustment Act is not just a legislative initiative; it is a moral imperative. Thousands of Venezuelans in the United States live in constant uncertainty, unable to fully rebuild their lives due to the lack of a clear legal pathway to stability. These individuals have fled a regime where totalitarianism suppresses fundamental freedoms, and the prospect of democratic change remains nonexistent. The approval of this bill will allow more than 400,000 Venezuelans to live with stability and security, free from the fear of family separation or an uncertain future,” said Mildred Rodriguez, CEO of My Voice Counts Charities Foundation Inc. Furthermore, it will provide them with the opportunity to obtain permanent residency, ensuring their full integration into the nation that has offered them refuge. This is not only a humanitarian response but also a strategic investment in a community that contributes to the economic, social, and cultural fabric of the United States. The Venezuelan Adjustment Act represents a step toward justice, offering stability, dignity, and a future free from fear.”

For the full text of the bill, please click here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) and Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14) and Paul Tonko (NY-20) led a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and Federal Highway Administration Executive Director Gloria M. Shepherd expressing strong opposition to the Federal Highway Administration’s illegal decision to rescind all National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program guidance, funding, and approval of all State Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Express Deployment plans.

 

“It is our belief that the FHWA’s February 6, 2025, decision to rescind the NEVI program is illegal and will increase costs on Americans, states, and local communities. Congress authorized $5 billion for FY22 through FY26 in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for states to deploy EV charging infrastructure,” wrote the Members.“Leaders from every state submitted approved plans for EV infrastructure deployment that make critical investments in communities across the country. To date, approximately $3 billion to implement these plans and sign contracts with developers has been legally obligated and must be honored. The remaining $2 billion must still be distributed in accordance with the law.”

 

“Broad-based and convenient electric charging has robust support from our constituents, states, auto manufacturers, retail stores, gas stations looking to diversify, and more. These investments are creating jobs, improving air quality, and bolstering our energy security,” continued the Members. “We believe it is critical for the United States to continue to assist rural and working-class areas with access to charging stations, enhance electric vehicle manufacturing competitiveness, and develop our national charging station infrastructure.”

 

“As such, in addition to an explanation of the FHWA’s decision and its purported authority to rescind the NEVI Program, we request a briefing to inform Members of Congress of the Administration’s plans with respect to EV charging stations and the NEVI Program generally.”

 

For the full text of the letter, please click here. 

 

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) announced efforts to continue protecting manatees in the 119^th Congress by co-sponsoring H.R. 135, the Manatee Protection Act of 2025, introduced by Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16). The Manatee Protection Act of 2025 would officially upgrade the West Indian manatee from “threatened” to “endangered” under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Upgrading their designation under the ESA would require the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) to refocus their attention on manatee population rehabilitation and allow for increased federal resources, including more funding and personnel.

“Last year, over 550 manatees died in Florida. This is alarming and should prompt us to take action to protect them from experiencing further tragedies. We must do everything in our power to protect these precious mammals,” said Rep. Soto.

“Manatees are beloved, iconic mammals in Florida,” said Rep. Buchanan. “The heart-breaking number of manatee deaths over the past few years is staggering and extremely concerning, which is why upgrading their ESA status is absolutely critical. We must do everything we can to protect these gentle giants and Florida’s official marine mammal.”

Upon introduction, the Manatee Protection Act of 2025 was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources, of which Rep. Soto is a member. 

Additionally, Rep. Soto re-introduced H.R. 704, the Manatee Stamp Act, to require the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to issue a manatee semipostal stamp that will generate proceeds for the FWS to continue their efforts to protect manatees and manatee habitats. After its introduction in the 118^th Congress, the USPS released a “Save Manatees” stamp in 2024. 

“We’ve had a couple of tough years with our manatees,” said Rep. Soto. “With unusual mortality events in the last five years—which caused us to lose thousands of manatees in Florida—it is critical to take every possible approach to help these mammals thrive and survive. We were thrilled to see the USPS launch the ‘Save Manatees’ stamp in 2024, which helped save the cost of design, but our bill is still necessary to help proceeds go towards conservation efforts. We are optimistic and hope to see Congress advance the Manatee Stamp Act quickly.” 

Upon introduction, the Manatee Stamp Act was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Reps. Darren Soto (D-FL-09) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12) introduced H.R. 900, the Sinkhole Mapping Act— bipartisan legislation that directs the U.S. Geological Survey to conduct studies on the short- and long-term mechanisms that potentially contribute to the triggering of sinkholes. This includes extreme storm events, prolonged droughts leading to shifts in water management practices, as well as ongoing aquifer depletion, and other major changes in water use.

“Sinkholes pose a serious risk to Florida’s communities, infrastructure, and economy, yet we still lack a comprehensive mapping system to track and predict these hazards,” said Rep. Soto. “Directing the USGS to study the causes and risks of sinkhole formation will help provide critical data to help protect homeowners, businesses, and first responders. This is an important step toward ensuring public safety and strengthening our resilience against these natural threats.”

“In recent years, we have seen throughout Tampa Bay how dangerous sinkholes can be for neighborhoods. To improve public safety and consumer protection, we need to study the causes and remedies of sinkholes while developing geological maps to delineate the highest risk areas for sinkholes to occur. I look forward to working on this important bipartisan initiative with my colleagues,” said Rep. Bilirakis.

Currently, there is no database displaying all sinkholes in Florida. This presents challenges not just for land developers and residents but also for community planners and first responders. The Sinkhole Mapping Act will also direct the director of the USGS to open a public website that displays maps depicting zones at greater risk of sinkhole formation, giving community planners and first responders access to critical information.

In addition to Reps. Soto and Bilirakis, the Sinkhole Mapping Act is cosponsored by Florida Reps. Kathy Castor (D-FL-11), Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24).

Upon introduction, H.R. 900 was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources, of which Rep. Soto is a member. 

For the full text of the bill, please click here.

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