MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) joined his House Democratic colleagues demanding that the Trump Administration immediately release nearly $7 billion in congressionally approved federal education funding that is currently being withheld from schools across the nation, including nearly $928 million from California.  Rep. Panetta joined two official Congressional inquiries, one submitted by Democrats in the California delegation and another backed by 150 House Democrats nationwide, seeking answers and action on the withheld federal funding for local school systems.  The state of California boasts nearly 5.8 million K-12 students in its schools.

“Due to this Administration’s, decisions on funding for education, School districts across our country, California, and our community are stuck with more uncertainty just weeks before the school year begins,” said Rep. Panetta.  “Congress provided this federal funding to ensure that students have access to afterschool programs, English language instruction, and the support services they need to succeed.  The Administration’s refusal to release these dollars undermines our students and creates unnecessary confusion and hardship for schools.  Together, my congressional colleagues and I are, again, fighting back and working to get these funds flowing for our children, families, teachers, and communities.”

The Administration’s education funding freeze could impact education services across California’s 19^th Congressional District which includes parts of Monterey, Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, and San Luis Obispo Counties.  For example, in Santa Cruz County, the freeze jeopardizes critical programs at Pajaro Valley Unified School District, including $3 million for migrant education, $4.6 million for afterschool services, and nearly $400,000 for adult education.  With no legal justification or clear timeline from the Administration, districts across the region are being forced to make budget decisions without promised federal support. 

In the California inquiry, the Members state, “These programs support some of the most vulnerable and underserved students and communities in California and have been demonstrated to have lifelong benefits to students’ educational attainment, income, and other measures of wellbeing. Each passing day that these funds are unlawfully withheld hurts our schools and students and strains already limited budgets.”

In the nationwide inquiry, the Members state, “There is no legitimate reason why any review of these programs should prevent the Administration from fulfilling its responsibility to the American people on time.  No more excuses — follow the law and release the funding meant for our schools, teachers, and families.”

These federal funds, typically distributed on July 1, support a wide range of essential education programs, including:

• Migrant Education (Title I-C), serving children of migrant and seasonal farmworkers;
• English Language Acquisition (Title III-A), supporting students learning English;
• Supporting Effective Instruction Grants (Title II-A), for teacher training and class size reduction;
• 21st Century Community Learning Centers (Title IV-B), for afterschool and summer enrichment programs;
• Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants (Title IV-A), funding STEM education, mental health services, and college readiness;
• Adult Basic Education and Literacy Grants, including civics and workforce readiness.

Read the full California Delegation letter: HERE

Read the House Democratic Caucus letter: HERE

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) announced his cosponsorship of two pieces of legislation to hold public officials accountable and protect investors from political abuse of digital assets.  Rep. Panetta officially cosponsored the Modern Emoluments and Malfeasance Enforcement (MEME) Act, introduced by Rep. Sam Liccardo, and the Stop TRUMP in Crypto Act, introduced by Rep. Maxine Waters.  Both bills would prohibit sitting federal officials and their immediate families from promoting, issuing, or profiting from digital assets and other financial instruments while in office.

The legislation comes in response to escalating reports of financial self-dealing and foreign influence linked to President Donald Trump and his family through the launch of multiple cryptocurrency ventures, including the $TRUMP and $MELANIA meme coins and the World Liberty Financial platform.  President Trump and his family controlled roughly 40% of World Liberty Financial, a crypto platform that distributed over $50 million to its founders. A separate Trump-backed stablecoin, USD1, has raised red flags about national security and opaque foreign influence.

“When public officials use their positions to promote cryptocurrencies they have a financial stake in, it raises serious questions about ethics and conflicts of interest,” said Rep. Panetta.  “These bills would ban federal officials from promoting or profiting off crypto schemes while in office, just like we already expect when it comes to stocks or private businesses.  That’s a basic step to restore some trust and make sure public office is used to serve the public, not enrich yourself.”

The MEME Act would prohibit the President, Vice President, Members of Congress, senior Executive Branch officials, and their immediate families from issuing, promoting, or profiting from any digital asset, commodity, or security while in office.  It would also subject violators to criminal and civil penalties.  The Stop TRUMP in Crypto Act would bar officials from owning controlling shares in digital assets or companies, preventing insider trading based on nonpublic information, and addressing potential conflicts of interest tied to cryptocurrency.

Both bills are supported by Public Citizen, Consumer Reports, Accountable.US, and dozens of Members of Congress working to protect the public trust.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

San Jose, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) authored and introduced legislation to rename the Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic in San Jose, California, as the Corporal Patrick D. Tillman VA Clinic.  Rep. Ken Calvert (CA-41) co-leads this legislation.

This legislation honors the legacy of San Jose native Pat Tillman, who left a successful career in the NFL to serve his country in the U.S. Army following the September 11th terrorist attacks. Tillman’s commitment to service, sacrifice, and country embodies the very spirit of what it means to be an American patriot.

“The life of Pat Tillman is a true example of service as well as the type of sacrifice that can come with choosing to fulfill the obligations of living in our democracy.  However, the death of Corporal Tillman also is an example of how our nation and our government can always do better when it comes to serving those who serve us,” said Rep. Panetta. “By naming the San Jose VA Clinic for Pat Tillman, everyone can be reminded of not just Pat’s legacy of service and sacrifice, but the type of service and care that we must provide every veteran.”

“Pat Tillman answered the call of his country in the wake of September 11th, exchanging his Arizona Cardinals uniform for an Army Ranger uniform,” said Rep. Calvert.  “His extraordinary sacrifice embodies the patriotism that inspires so many to serve. I am proud to cosponsor this bipartisan bill from my colleague, Rep. Panetta, to honor Pat’s legacy.”

Corporal Tillman served with distinction in the 75th Ranger Regiment, deploying in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.  He was killed in action in Afghanistan on April 22, 2004, and posthumously awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart.

The bill requires support from the full California congressional delegation for passage, as is customary with VA facility name changes. Rep. Panetta continues working with colleagues from both parties to honor this American hero and help advance the legislation swiftly.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42)

Today, Congressman Calvert announced that more than $67 million for 41st Congressional District water and transportation infrastructure projects was included in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill. The bill was approved by the House Appropriations Committee last week and now advances to the House floor for consideration.

Funding was included for the following 41st Congressional District transportation projects:

• $5.6 million for the Cook Street Bridge Project in Palm Desert
• $1.7 million for the Corona Trails Improvement Project
• $5 million for the French Valley Airport Contract Control Tower Project
• $5 million for the Indian Canyon Drive Project in Palm Springs
• $5 million for the I-10 Singleton Road Interchange Project in Calimesa
• $5 million for the I-15 Express Lanes Southern Extension Project
• $8 million for the Lake Elsinore Water Quality Project
• $4 million for the Magnolia Avenue Widening Project in Corona
• $2.5 million for the Norco Recycled Water Distribution and Transmission Mainline Project
• $3 million for the Inline Baggage Handling System Improvement Project at Palm Springs International Airport
• $5 million for the Quail Valley Septic to Sewer Conversion Project
• $2.5 million for the Scott Road/Bundy Canyon Road Widening in Menifee
• $5 million for the Via Vail Roadway Improvement Project in Rancho Mirage
• $5 million for the Washington Street Pavement Resurfacing Project in La Quinta
• $5 million for the Whitewater Channel Lining in Indian Wells

“The resources provided for Riverside County projects in this bill will help communities throughout our region,” said Rep. Calvert. “I’m proud to work together with our local leaders to identify and fund projects that will make an impact in reducing traffic congestion, improving water quality, and enhancing our local airports. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight to return the tax dollars my constituents send to Washington, D.C. back here to make a difference in my district.”

“The City of Palm Desert is deeply grateful to Congressman Calvert for his effort to include $5.67 million for the Cook Street Bridge Project in the federal budget,” said Palm Desert Mayor Jan C. Harnik. “This funding moves us one step closer to upgrading a stretch of roadway that is flood-prone, with a safer and more dependable connection for everyone. It’s an investment in public safety, economic vitality, and the future of our region.”

“We are grateful to Representative Calvert for championing critical investments in our community,” said Corona Mayor Jim Steiner. “The $1.7 million for the Corona Trail Improvement Project and $4 million for the Magnolia Avenue Widening Project are welcome investments to help us enhance mobility, safety, and quality of life for our residents.”

“I want to extend my sincere thanks to Congressman Calvert for championing our efforts to bring an air traffic control tower to French Valley Airport,” said Riverside County Supervisor Chuck Washington. “By including this project in his community funding requests, he has shown a strong commitment to enhancing air safety and supporting the future of aviation in our region. We are truly grateful for his continued advocacy and support.”

“I appreciate Congressman Calvert’s leadership in securing funding for critical infrastructure projects in the Coachella Valley portion of his district,” said CVAG Executive Director Tom Kirk. “The Indian Canyon Drive project is a vital investment that will help address persistent flooding and blowsand-related road closures—issues that have long disrupted access to essential destinations, including the region’s Level I Trauma Center, Desert Regional Medical Center. This project will enhance public safety, improve the movement of people and goods, and strengthen the reliability of our regional transportation network. I’m thrilled to see the Indian Canyon Drive project included in the appropriations bill, and I look forward to continuing to work with Congressman Calvert to secure federal investments that improve transportation safety for the traveling public.”

“The City of Calimesa is grateful for the efforts of Congressman Calvert,” said Calimesa Mayor Linda Molina. “Having already secured $7 million for Calimesa previously, Rep. Calvert continues to advocate for investment in infrastructure for Calimesa with $5 million for the missing on and off ramps at the I-10/Singleton interchange. This investment is key in increasing mobility for Calimesa and San Gorgonio Pass residents and businesses.”

“RCTC appreciates Representative Calvert for supporting our $5 million Community Project Funding request to fund the 15 Express Lanes Project Southern Extension,” said RCTC Chair and Riverside County Supervisor for the Second District Karen Spiegel. “Delivering transportation solutions for the residents of Riverside County is at the heart of what RCTC does, and with the support of our federal partners, this project will help improve travel along the I-15 corridor.”

“The City of Lake Elsinore is incredibly grateful for the $8 million in federal funding included in the FY26 Transportation and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill for the Lake Elsinore Water Quality Project,” said Lake Elsinore Mayor Brian Tisdale. “We extend our sincere gratitude to Congressman Calvert for his steadfast support and leadership in championing the health and sustainability of our region’s only natural freshwater lake. This critical investment will allow us to advance vital infrastructure and ecological improvements that directly support the long-term health, vitality, and safety of Lake Elsinore. Our community has made lake restoration and resilience a top priority, and this funding will help us address water quality challenges, protect local wildlife habitats, and enhance recreational access for residents and visitors alike. We look forward to continuing our partnership with federal, state, and regional stakeholders to ensure Lake Elsinore remains a vibrant and thriving natural asset for generations to come.”

“Water conservation is an increasingly critical issue in California, and the City of Norco has proactively taken steps to address this challenge and implement recycled water infrastructure,” said Norco Mayor Greg Newton. “The federal funding secured for this project will significantly aid our efforts to construct a reclaimed water pump system, build a storage reservoir, and complete essential system improvements, ensuring the long-term sustainability of our local water system. These advancements will also enable us to provide a source of recycled water to the Naval Surface Warfare Center Corona, as well as to our community parks. This investment is not only a crucial step towards water sustainability but also a significant commitment to the future well-being of Norco. We appreciate Representative Calvert’s unwavering support for this project and his diligent efforts to secure this vital federal investment for Horsetown USA.”

“We sincerely thank Congressman Calvert for securing this critical funding to upgrade our outbound baggage system,” said Harry Barrett, Jr., Executive Director of Aviation at Palm Springs International Airport. “As PSP continues to experience record growth, this investment will enhance operational efficiency and ensure the smooth, welcoming experience travelers associate with Palm Springs.”

“Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) is extremely pleased and grateful that Representative Calvert advanced $5 million through the Housing and Urban Development program to help fund our Quail Valley Septic to Sewer Conversion project,” said EMWD’s President, Stephen Corona.  “This project is desperately needed to protect downstream water quality and alleviate septic contamination in a disadvantaged community.”

“Congressman Calvert has a proven track record of delivering federal dollars to the communities he represents, and we are grateful for his efforts to secure funding for our Scott Road/Bundy Canyon Widening project,” said Menifee Mayor Ricky Estrada. “This project will deliver significant improvements in traffic flow for this busy east-west corridor in our city, while also enhancing safety and circulation for vehicles and bicycles.”

“On behalf of the City of Rancho Mirage, I extend our sincere gratitude to Representative Ken Calvert for his steadfast advocacy in securing $5 million in federal funding for the Via Vail Roadway Improvement Project,” said Rancho Mirage Mayor Ted Weill. “This area is designated for affordable and workforce housing, and the roadway upgrade will improve access to support that development. This investment helps make Rancho Mirage more livable for the workers and families who sustain our community. It is a significant win for our city, and we are deeply appreciative of the continued federal support advancing these priorities.”

“We are incredibly grateful to Representative Calvert for his unwavering support in championing the inclusion of $5 million in federal funding for the Washington Street Pavement Resurfacing, Ramp Improvements, and Drainage Improvements Project,” said La Quinta Mayor Linda Evans. “This significant investment, which has been submitted for consideration in the FY26 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill, is vital for enhancing our city’s infrastructure, improving safety for our residents, and ensuring the continued flow of commerce in our community. This project represents a critical step forward in maintaining the high quality of life we value in La Quinta, and we look forward to the positive impact these improvements will bring if approved.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42)

Today, the House of Representatives voted (221 to 209) to approve the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Act, which was introduced by Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Ken Calvert (CA-41).

“Providing our men and women in uniform with the resources they need to keep America safe is one of the most important constitutional responsibilities of Congress,” said Rep. Calvert. “The passage of the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act advances our national security goals by investing in the platforms and programs that enhance America’s military dominance. The bill makes innovation a priority by expanding programs I have championed that rapidly deploy cutting-edge, difference making systems into the hands of our warfighters. Our troops are the backbone of our national security and receive a well-deserved pay raise in this bill.”

The Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Bill
 
In accordance with Chairman Calvert’s national security priorities, the bill invests in America’s military superiority, shapes a more efficient and effective Department of Defense, protects from threats at America’s border, and takes care of our troops and their families.

Cares for our troops and their families by:

• Including an increase of 3.8% in basic pay for all military personnel effective January 1, 2026.
• Continuing historic pay increases enacted in Fiscal Year 2025 for junior enlisted servicemembers.
• Improving quality of life, readiness, and continuity for servicemembers by slowing permanent change of station moves, saving over $662 million.

Champions America’s military superiority by:

• Enhancing investments in 5th and 6th generation aircraft including the F-35, F-47, and F/A-XX. 
• Supporting the modernization of the nuclear triad: the B-21 Raider, the Columbia Class Submarine, and Sentinel.
• Targeting resources for unmanned aerial systems, uncrewed maritime platforms, and land-based counter-unmanned aerial systems to advance capabilities and strengthen our national defense.
• Investing in national security space, including proliferated missile warning, missile tracking satellites, and next generation intelligence collection systems to ensure national leaders have real-time global situational awareness.
• Allocating approximately $13 billion for missile defense and space programs to augment and integrate in support of the Golden Dome effort.
• Providing over $2.6 billion for hypersonics programs.
• Reversing the “divest to invest” trend by preserving F-15s and U-2s while investing in next-generation fighters and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.
• Continuing to prioritize innovation through over $1.3 billion combined for the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT), and Office of Strategic Capital (OSC).
• Strengthening our defense industrial base by investing $131 million in a Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network.
• Supporting our close ally Israel by providing $500 million for the Israeli Cooperative Missile Defense Programs, and $122.5 million for U.S.-Israel cooperative development programs.

Shapes a more efficient and effective Department of Defense by:

• Reducing $3.6 billion and almost 45,000 civilian full-time equivalents to capture Workforce Acceleration and Recapitalization Initiative efforts.
• Prioritizing fiscal sanity and eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse through codifying both the Department’s cooperation with DOGE and streamlined functions and management improvements at the Pentagon.
• Requiring detailed reporting on the Department’s proposed allocations and expenditures of reconciliation.

Combats international actors who facilitate drug trafficking and manufacturing by:

• Providing $1.15 billion for counter drug programs, which is $245 million above the budget request.
• Increasing funding for the National Guard Counterdrug Program.
• Transferring Mexico from U.S. Northern Command’s jurisdiction to U.S. Southern Command for better coordination and prioritization.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42)

Today, the House Natural Resources Committee approved the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program Amendment Act, H.R.831, bipartisan legislation introduced earlier this year by Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41). The bipartisan bill would support Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program (LCR MSCP) activities by establishing an interest-bearing account at the Department of Treasury to hold the funds contributed by the states of Arizona, California, and Nevada for the LCR MSCP.
 
“As this bill continues to advance, we are closer to expanding the resources available for the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program,” said Rep. Calvert. “I am thankful for the support of my House colleagues on the Natural Resource Committee for passing this common-sense step allowing excess funds in the LCR MSCP to earn interest and maintain their effectiveness.”
 
“Congressman Calvert is known for legislative solutions that are forward thinking and save taxpayer dollars,” said House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-4). “His work on the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program is just one example of this and will ensure the program is run responsibly while generating millions in new annual revenue. I’d like to thank him for his leadership on this bill, and I look forward to working with him to help move it through the legislative process.”
 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (43rd District of California)

Two-Bill Package Improves Access to Quality Care and Ensures Patients are Informed about Their Options

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (43rd District of California)

LOS ANGELES – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee, issued the following statement on the fifth anniversary of the passing of her dear friend and civil rights icon, Congressman John Lewis:

“Five years ago today, we lost a national treasure, my dear friend and colleague of nearly three decades, Congressman John Robert Lewis. There will never be another like him.

John dedicated his entire life to what became his signature call to action: making ‘good trouble, necessary trouble.’ From the lunch counters of Nashville to the bridge in Selma, he faced down violence and hatred with the strength of nonviolence, love, and conviction. He was arrested over 40 times, beaten within inches of his life, and never once gave up on the promise of justice.

Serving alongside John in the House of Representatives was the honor of my life. He carried with him a moral clarity and spiritual fortitude that inspired every one of us, whether we were battling for voting rights, fighting poverty, or standing against racism in all its forms. When John Lewis rose to speak on the House floor, you listened because you knew the truth was coming.

On this solemn anniversary, I continue to fight for the causes John championed, protecting the sacred right to vote, defending civil rights, and ensuring that this country lives up to its ideals. Let us honor him not only with words, but with action. Pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. End voter suppression. And keep marching forward.

John, we miss you. But your spirit is alive in every act of justice, every protest for equity, and every citizen who dares to make good trouble.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Darren Soto (D-FL)

H.R. 1770, the Consumer Safety Technology Act, allows federal agencies to study rapidly evolving technologies and their safety

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Foster (11th District of Illinois)

Washington, D.C. – Tonight, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) issued the following statement:

“Today, Republicans once again served as a rubber stamp for Donald Trump’s corruption and chaos, advancing his meme coin grift and solidifying DOGE cuts into law.

“Congress has a responsibility to modernize how we regulate digital assets, but the CLARITY Act misses the mark. It carves loopholes so Trump can continue to profit off his meme coin, while tying regulators’ hands when it comes to policing market abuses, conflicts of interest, and illicit finance.

“House Republicans then voted for Trump’s rescissions package, defunding public broadcasts our constituents rely on for weather alerts, emergency updates, and local news. This package also eliminates lifesaving humanitarian aid, guts programs that support American businesses, weakens our global competitiveness, and gives China a bigger opening to expand its influence.

“Republicans continue to enable Trump’s pursuit of unchecked power and personal profit.”

Watch Rep. Foster’s full floor speech on the CLARITY Act here. 

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