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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Representatives Lori Trahan (MA-03) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) introduced the Caring for Our Seniors Act, bipartisan legislation designed to tackle two urgent challenges: the skyrocketing cost of senior care and the growing shortage of long-term care workers.
“For millions of seniors, assisted living isn’t a luxury – it’s a lifeline. But rising costs are putting that care out of reach, leaving families with nowhere to turn and caregivers stretched to their limits,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “The bipartisan Caring for Our Seniors Act will help keep these doors open, protect access to care, and ensure our seniors can age with the dignity they deserve.”
America’s senior population is on track to outnumber children within the next decade—but our long-term care system is dangerously out of sync with that reality. The cost of assisted living is rising beyond reach, the care workforce is shrinking, and families across the country are being left with fewer and fewer options.
The Caring for Our Seniors Act offers a responsible, bipartisan solution—fully funded by reallocating unspent and recovered federal COVID-era relief dollars. It creates no new burden on taxpayers and adds nothing to the national debt, while delivering targeted, lasting reforms to strengthen care for our aging population.
The Caring for Our Seniors Act takes a two-pronged approach:
•           Establishes a Senior Care Cost Reduction Program that provides eligible low-income seniors with a monthly $1,000 benefit to help cover assisted living expenses—an affordable, community-based alternative to nursing homes.
•           Expands federal workforce training programs through the Departments of Labor and Health and Human Services to recruit, train, and retain the next generation of direct care professionals.
By lowering costs, strengthening the workforce, and easing long-term pressure on Medicaid, the Caring for Our Seniors Act delivers a sustainable path forward for aging in America.
“Caring for our seniors is one of our most fundamental responsibilities—and right now, we’re falling short,” said Rep Fitzpatrick. “Families are struggling to afford care, providers are facing a historic workforce shortage, and the current system is putting unsustainable pressure on taxpayers. The Caring for Our Seniors Act delivers real, practical solutions: lowering out-of-pocket costs for families, investing in training programs to grow our care workforce, and supporting more affordable care models that reduce the long-term burden on Medicaid and taxpayers. This is how we protect our seniors and build a smarter, more sustainable system for the future.”
“The Caring for Seniors Act represents a critical step forward in addressing the workforce challenges facing assisted living communities while expanding access to care for older adults in Massachusetts and beyond,” said Brian Doherty, President and CEO of the Massachusetts Assisted Living Association. “By investing in innovative and dedicated workforce training as well as affordability and accessibility measures, this legislation strengthens our ability to meet the needs of an aging population with dignity, independence, and choice. We thank Congresswoman Trahan for her continued leadership and urge the timely passage of this bill.”
“The Caring for Seniors Act is a two-fold answer to our nation’s long-term care challenges. It both makes critical investments in our workforce and also helps to make care more affordable to more Americans,” said Maggie Elehwany, Argentum Senior Vice President of Public Affairs. “Our nation faces a steep task to recruit and retain more than 20 million workers by the year 2040. Every effort must be made to meet this need, and the Caring for Seniors Act advances common-sense and no-cost solutions to meet this objective. And as our nation grows older and more seniors will need care, the cost-reduction program will help to make access to care that much more achievable. We applaud Representatives Trahan and Fitzpatrick for their bipartisan leadership in introducing the Caring for Seniors Act and look forward to working with lawmakers from both sides of the aisle to advance this important bill this year.”
“We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Fitzpatrick for his leadership in introducing the bipartisan Caring for Seniors Act alongside Congresswoman Trahan,” said Susan Saxinger, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Assisted Living Association (PALA). “This important legislation recognizes the urgent need to make assisted living more affordable for seniors and to invest in the workforce that supports them. By expanding access to care and strengthening workforce training, this bill is a meaningful step forward for our aging population and the providers who serve them.”
Key Findings Driving the Legislation:
•           Nearly 80% of older Americans cannot afford four years in assisted living or two years in a nursing home.
•           Assisted living—offering 24/7 personal care, disease management, and housing—costs half as much as skilled nursing and a third the cost of round-the-clock home care.
•           The senior living industry must fill over 20 million jobs by 2040 to meet demand.
Trahan and Fitzpatrick—both long-standing advocates for bipartisan health and aging policy—are calling on Congress to unite behind this effort to protect seniors, support caregivers, and build a long-term care system that’s ready for the future.
Read full bill text HERE.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

Gomez: “Raise your hand if you think billionaires shouldn’t get another tax break… I think we’re missing a few hands from the other side.”

WASHINGTON, DC — In a House Ways and Means Committee markup today, Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) introduced an amendment to create a new 39.5% tax bracket on annual income over $1 billion. The proposal came after House Republicans blocked a series of Democratic amendments aimed at limiting tax breaks for those earning $400,000, $10 million, and $100 million. Rep. Gomez’s amendment was also rejected. 

“We just witnessed that the Republicans in this committee voted down amendments to stop tax breaks for those making $10 million. And we said, how about 100 million? We voted on […] $1 billion, and you still voted that down. So I don’t know what’s the limit for you guys?” said Rep. Gomez.

Gomez directly challenged Republican members who, behind closed doors and in press interviews, claimed they were open to taxing the rich: “Raise your hand if you think billionaires shouldn’t get another tax break… I think we’re missing a few hands from the other side.”

The amendment would have created a new tax bracket for ultra-high-income individuals: a 39.5% tax on income over $1 billion. Rep. Gomez concluded by saying, “There is no reason why the billionaire establishment pays a lower effective tax rate than a teacher or a firefighter or a nurse. …You want to make sure you’re not the Grand Oligarchy Party, well here’s your chance. I’m asking you to vote aye on an amendment that increases taxes on [billionaires].”

Recent reporting from ProPublica revealed that the 25 richest Americans paid an average effective federal income tax rate of just 3.4% between 2014 and 2018—far lower than many working-class families. Though some Republican lawmakers have anonymously floated support for taxing billionaires, none voted for Gomez’s amendment when given the opportunity.

For more updates from Congressman Gomez, follow @RepJimmyGomez on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, and X.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

Watch Rep. Gomez’s remarks HERE.

WASHINGTON, DC — During a House Ways and Means Committee markup, Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) called out House Republicans for proposing a tax bill that raises federal taxes on Americans earning less than $30,000 a year — while giving massive tax breaks to billionaires and big corporations. Citing data from the nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation, Gomez highlighted that by 2031, individuals making less than $15,000 a year would see their federal taxes increase by 74.3%, and those earning between $15,000 and $30,000 would see an increase of 20.6%.

Gomez condemned his Republican colleagues for pushing a bill that hurts the very people they claim to protect: “You have no shame when it comes to hurting working men and women in this country. I was someone who was never supposed to go to college. I worked at Subway. I worked at Target. I made $700 a week — not from 9 to 5, but from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. the next day. And I had zero health care. And you expect people in that position to believe you’re helping them? That billionaires deserve more help than they do? That’s your logic.”

Data from the Joint Committee on Taxation’s analysis of the Republican tax bill.

Gomez also called out the hypocrisy of cutting Medicaid and raising taxes on low-income parents while promoting family growth: “You want to tout a tax plan that increases taxes on people making under $30,000 a year, cuts their Medicaid, and then turns around and tells them to have more babies. That is the most insulting thing I’ve ever heard in my life.”

For more updates from Congressman Gomez, follow @RepJimmyGomez on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, and X.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today as the Ways and Means Committee begins consideration of the Republican Budget Reconciliation Bill, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) issued the following statement condemning the proposal:

“Once again, Republicans are showing us exactly who they work for, and it’s not working families. Their bill doesn’t lower costs, expand care, or help the middle class. Instead, it doubles down on Trump’s tax scam: handing trillions to the ultra-rich while making the largest cuts to Medicaid in our nation’s history. 

“My district is still recovering from the devastation of the Eaton Fire, which claimed 18 lives, destroyed more than 9,400 structures, and forced 20,000 people out of their homes. In a moment when our communities need robust federal disaster assistance, affordable health coverage, housing assistance, and infrastructure investment, President Trump and Republicans are giving trillions of dollars in tax giveaways to the ultra-wealthy and corporations who need it the least. .And they’re paying for it by taking this money from those who need it the most,  pushing a plan that explodes the deficit while slashing the basic programs working families depend on to survive and rebuild. 

“If you’re angry, you should be. Call your Republican Representatives and demand they put people over profits. While they hand billions to the wealthy and gut Medicaid, Democrats are fighting to protect health care and ensure no family is left behind.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

Legislation would raise awareness of the importance of mental health and help increase access to culturally-competent mental health care in AANHPI communities 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) and U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) reintroduced a package of bills focused on mental health awareness for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities in observance of May as National Mental Health Awareness Month and AANHPI Heritage Month. The package included a resolution recognizing May 10^th as National AANHPI Mental Health Day, as well as the Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act of 2025 to increase awareness and access to mental health care throughout the AANHPI community.

“This AANHPI Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, I’m honored to join Senator Hirono to reintroduce this legislative package to confront the unique mental health challenges faced by AANHPI communities,” said Rep. Chu. “The AANHPI community is the least likely of any racial or ethnic group to seek out mental health services. This disparity is largely driven by language barriers, taboos around shame, a lack of access to culturally competent care, and insufficient disaggregated data within research. As the only psychologist in Congress, I know how important it is to break down these barriers, challenge harmful misconceptions about seeking help, and ensure every community can access the mental health care they need. Recognizing May 10th as National AANHPI Mental Health Day brings long-overdue attention to the unique challenges our communities face and helps break the silence and stigma that too often surround mental health. But awareness must be matched with action, which is why the Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act would invest in culturally and linguistically appropriate outreach, education, and disaggregated data collection, so we can deliver care that truly reflects and serves the full diversity of the AANHPI community.”

“As we recognize AANHPI Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, I am proud to lead the introduction of this legislation to bring attention to the importance of mental health well-being in the AANHPI community,” said Senator Hirono. “Too many members of our communities face economic, cultural, and language barriers preventing them from accessing critical mental health care and these bills reaffirm our commitment to breaking down those barriers. Every person deserves access to culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health care, and I’m glad to partner with Representative Chu as we work to invest in mental health resources, combat the stigma surrounding mental health, and ensure that every member of our communities can access the care they need and deserve.” 

According to data collected by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), members of the AANHPI community have the lowest rates of mental health service utilization of any racial/ethnic group, with only 35 percent of Asian adults with a mental health problem receiving treatment in 2023. In 2023, an estimated 65 percent of the AANHPI community, who met criteria for a mental health problem, did not receive necessary treatment. And, even though suicide is the eleventh leading cause of death in the United States, it is the leading cause of death for AANHPI youth ages 10 to 24, and they are the only racial or ethnic group in this age category whose leading cause of death is suicide. In Hawaii, the suicide rate is greater than national average and the rate of suicide for Native Hawaiians is nearly double the national rate.

The National AANHPI Mental Health Day resolution recognizes the importance of mental health to the well-being of AANHPI families and communities and acknowledges the importance of raising awareness around mental health care. It also encourages health agencies to adopt policies to improve utilization of mental health services for the AANHPI community, as well as other marginalized communities.

Rep. Chu and Senator Hirono also reintroduced the Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act of 2025, bicameral legislation to curb mental health stigma and help increase access to mental health care in AANHPI communities. 

Specifically, the Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act would instruct SAMHSA to:

• Establish a national outreach and education mental health and substance misuse strategy for the AANHPI community by partnering with advocacy and behavioral health organizations that have an established record of serving AANHPI communities; and
• Conduct research and collect disaggregated data on the state of behavioral health among AANHPI youth and on the shortage of AANHPIs in the behavioral health workforce.

“The National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association welcomes the 5th introduction of the National AANHPI Mental Health Day resolution and strongly supports the Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities act,” said Dr. Pata Suyemoto, Executive Director of the National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA). “This bill is critical as it provides necessary investments to reduce stigma within Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. Stigma is a driving force that keeps AANHPI individuals from seeking mental health services when they need them. This bill hopefully will improve mental health outcomes through culturally and linguistically relevant services, increased culturally trained workforce, as well as increased research on AANHPI communities.” 

“Stigma and persistent barriers have kept AANHPIs from the mental health care they deserve—leading to some of the lowest utilization rates nationwide. It’s time for change. We know that better health outcomes are attainable, but we must take legislative action to invest in a mental health care workforce and infrastructure that are culturally and linguistically appropriate,” said Juliet K. Choi, President & CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF). “The bicameral introductions of the Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act and the AANHPI Mental Health Day Resolution mark vital steps toward closing the unacceptable disparities in mental health care and chronic disease treatment experienced in our communities.”

“The Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act and the establishment of a National Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Mental Health Day are vital steps forward in addressing the unique cultural barriers that too often prevent people from seeking care,” said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “Together, these measures affirm that mental health is a fundamental part of public health and that every community deserves equal access to services. NAMI thanks Senator Hirono and Rep. Chu for their leadership and proudly supports this important legislation.”

The National AANHPI Mental Health Day resolution was co-led by Representatives Jill Tokuda (D-HI-02), Doris Matsui (D-CA-07), and Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10) and was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and U.S. Representatives Suzan K. DelBene (D-WA-01); Grace Meng (D-NY-06); Kevin Mullin (D-CA-15); Mark Takano (D-CA-39); Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13); Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12); Al Green (D-TX-09); Jerrold Nadler (D-NY-12); Paul Tonko (D-NY-20); Derek Tran (D-CA-45); Nanette Diaz Barragan (D-CA-44); Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12); Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10); Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08); Scott H. Peters (D-CA-50); Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06); Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA-03); Dave Min (D-CA-47); and Robert Menendez (D-NJ-08). 

The Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and U.S. Representatives Suzan K. DelBene (D-WA-01); Grace Meng (D-NY-06); Kevin Mullin (D-CA-15); Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10); Mark Takano (D-CA-39); Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13); Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12); Al Green (D-TX-09); Jerrold Nadler (D-NY-12); Paul Tonko (D-NY-20); Derek Tran (D-CA-45); and Nanette Diaz Barragan (D-CA-44). 

Both bills are endorsed by AAPI Youth Rising; Advancing Justice (AAJC); Asian American Psychological Association (AAPA); Asian Mental Health Collective; Asian Pacific Americans in Higher Education; Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF); Asian Psychedelic Collective; Asian Youth Act; Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law; Empowering Pacific Islander Communities (EPIC); Japanese American Citizens League; LEAD Filipino; National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA); National Asian Pacific American Families Allied for Substance Awareness and Harm Reduction; National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA); National Partnership for New Americans; National Partnership for Women & Families; Prevention Institute; Sadhana: Coalition of Progressive Hindus; The Asian American Foundation; Thriving Asians; Thriving Twentysomethings; UCA WAVES; We Make It Matter; Wellness Ranch Equine Assisted Therapy; API Tennessee; Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders of New Jersey (AAPI NJ); Asian Counseling and Referral Service; Association for Infant Mental Health In Hawaii; Coalition for Asian American Children and Families; Hawai’i Health & Harm Reduction Center; Hawai‘i Office of Wellness and Resilience; Hep Free Hawai’i; Mental Health America of Hawaii; Monsoon Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity; NAMI Hawaii (National Alliance on Mental Illness); Sakura Foundation; Yellow Chair Collective; Asian Americans for Community Involvement; Asian Mental Health Project; Centro de Ayuda y Esperanza Latina, Inc.; Filipino Mental Health Initiative of Hawaii; RAMS (Richmond Area Multi-Services, Inc.); and SPEAK, a Supportive Place for Empowering Asian Americans and Kin. 

The full text of the resolution is available here. The full text of the legislation is available here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Recently, the Department of Justice (DOJ) abruptly canceled hundreds of grants to community organizations and local governments, slashing critical funding for gun-violence prevention, addiction services, and crime-victim advocacy programs.“ As someone who has looked into the eyes of families who have just lost loved ones to gun violence, it’s deeply troubling to hear that efforts to prevent more deaths and tragedies are being dismissed as ‘wasteful spending’ by the Attorney General. This alarming justification ignores the devastating human toll of gun violence across our nation and unnecessarily risks more Americans’ lives,” said Rep. Judy Chu, whose congressional district includes Monterey Park, where 11 people died in Los Angeles County’s worst ever mass shooting in January 2023. “This is a crushing setback for our community and the rest of our country, but we will not waver.”

Since the shooting, Rep. Chu has introduced and co-led several bills to help prevent future mass shootings and gun violence in America, including the Language Access to Gun Violence Prevention Strategies Act, which would ensure that individuals with limited English proficiency can access gun violence prevention resources through in-language materials and culturally competent outreach. 

“I’m fighting to pass legislation that depends on the DOJ for proper implementation,” continued Rep. Chu. “By undermining these critical efforts, Republicans are endangering lives. They bear responsibility for future gun violence in America.” 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

PASADENA, CA — On Saturday, April 19, 2025, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) hosted her 15th annual Congressional Women of the Year Awards Ceremony, honoring remarkable women from the San Gabriel Valley who have made a lasting impact through service, advocacy, and leadership. Each year, this award recognizes women nominated by members of their own communities for their extraordinary dedication. While this year’s honorees have made a difference throughout their careers, their leadership following the devastating Eaton Fires has been especially powerful. They’ve helped families, supported youth, cared for seniors, and uplifted our community during the most challenging moments of the Eaton Fires. 

“After January’s Eaton Fire left our community devastated, this year’s honorees, who have long been pillars of strength in our neighborhoods truly rose to the occasion. They stepped up in the immediate aftermath, supported the recovery efforts, and continue to lead as we move into long-term rebuilding. It’s so important that we come together to recognize the women who have helped our community. The San Gabriel Valley is more resilient today because of their unwavering dedication,” said Rep. Judy Chu. “This award is special because the honorees are nominated by those who know them best and I’m honored to celebrate their impact.”

The 2025 honorees are: 

Anna Babayan – Interim Principal for Sahag-Mesrob Armenian Christian School

Anna Babayan has been a tireless advocate for Pasadena’s Armenian community, working with groups like AGBU and local Armenian schools. After the Eaton Fire destroyed Sahag Mesrob Armenian School and displaced many students and staff, Anna acted swiftly, organizing donation drives, securing temporary classrooms with the help of local Armenian organizations, and prioritizing students’ emotional recovery. Today, as the community navigates the long road to rebuilding. Anna isn’t just helping rebuild Sahag Mesrob, she’s working to expand it, with plans to eventually open a high school. For over 45 years, Sahag Mesrob has been a cornerstone of Pasadena’s Armenian community, and thanks to Anna’s leadership, its legacy will continue.

Debra Boudreaux – Chief International Affairs Officer, Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation

Debra Boudreaux has spent over 35 years advancing global humanitarian work. When the Eaton Fire struck, she was in Taiwan but immediately mobilized disaster response efforts from abroad. Under her leadership, Tzu Chi provided shelter, meals, and supplies to evacuees, staffed Red Cross shelters, and offered emotional support to impacted families. Upon returning to Los Angeles, Debra worked non-stop to distribute aid, partner with FEMA and local organizations, and provide emergency financial assistance to thousands. From helping replace a lost wheelchair to comforting a police officer who lost his home, Debra’s compassion and leadership brought hope to a community in crisis.

Jennifer DeVoll – President & CEO – Pasadena Community Foundation

When the Eaton Fire hit, Jennifer DeVoll and the Pasadena Community Foundation (PCF) sprang into action, launching a relief fund within hours and distributing $1 million in the first two weeks. Her fast, strategic response made her a trusted leader in the recovery, drawing support from major corporations and foundations. Under her guidance, PCF has since provided $3.5 million in direct aid and helped launch the Altadena Builds Back Foundation with $50 million to support long-term recovery in phases, focusing now on childcare and housing. Beyond disaster relief, Jennifer has led PCF to manage $250 million in assets, create nearly 100 million in endowments, and expand access to affordable housing and scholarships. As she prepares to retire this June, her work will continue through Altadena Builds Back. 

Sharon Gray– Owner and Operator Eaton Dam Stables

Sharon Gray is a true hero whose courage and compassion saved over 50 lives during the Eaton Fire. As the longtime owner of Eaton Dam Stables, Sharon has spent decades building a community centered around her deep love for horses. When the fire broke out on January 7th, she and her team acted fast, evacuating 39 horses, a pig, barn cats, and chickens under extreme conditions. Thanks to her leadership and quick thinking, every animal was saved, including one horse she later rescued from the burned property. Sharon’s bravery is matched only by her lifelong commitment to service, including 36 years as a Pasadena police officer. Even after losing her own home in the fire, she continues to show up daily to help rebuild the stables and support her community.

Victoria Knapp – Chair of Altadena Town Council 

Victoria Knapp, Chair of the Altadena Town Council, has been a tireless advocate for her community, especially in the wake of the Eaton Fire. On the very night her own home of 15 years was lost, she began sharing critical updates to keep residents informed. In the days that followed, she launched a fire recovery website, turned monthly town council meetings into weekly briefings, and worked closely with agencies like FEMA and the EPA to provide accurate, timely information. Her firsthand experience navigating recovery gave her the empathy and insight to guide others through the same process. Her commitment to Altadena began well before the fire, from revitalizing local infrastructure to supporting small businesses, and thanks to her leadership, the community is on a path to rebuild stronger than ever. 

Jasmin Shupper – Founder and President of Greenline Housing Foundation

Jasmin Shupper, founder and president of Greenline Housing Foundation, is a passionate advocate for housing justice, focused on repairing the long-term harms of redlining and race-based discrimination. Through her foundation, Jasmin has provided over $1 million in down payment grants, financial education, and home maintenance assistance to Black and Hispanic families, all without public funding. After the Eaton Fire devastated Altadena, a historically Black homeownership hub, Jasmin quickly mobilized to support displaced families. Her foundation secured year-long leases for 15 families and is offering up to $40,000 in rental aid, with plans to assist 50 households. Greenline is also covering insurance and FEMA funding gaps with up to $250,000 in rebuilding aid per family. To prevent land loss, they’ve begun purchasing lots to hold in community trust. Jasmin’s work is deeply personal, shaped by her own family’s generational homeownership, and she’s now helping others protect their legacy and build lasting wealth.

Sharon Strong – Volunteer and In-Home Care Provider

Sharon Strong, a single mother, in-home care provider, and NAACP board member, has long been a champion for vulnerable communities in Altadena and Pasadena. When the Eaton Fire struck, she organized relief efforts through the Dena Relief Drive and supporting her own displaced family members. Sharon worked with local groups to provide rent assistance, clothing, and essentials to fire victims, while also focusing on seniors’ needs. She personally delivered supplies to elderly residents, set up a resource center, and arranged cleanup efforts and temporary housing for those in impacted senior complexes. Her unwavering dedication to service, especially for seniors and underserved families, has made a powerful difference in the lives of so many.

Dr. Randy Taplitz – City of Hope Chair, Department of Medicine

Dr. Randy Taplitz, Chair of the Department of Medicine at City of Hope, whose calm leadership and compassion has guided countless patients through their most difficult moments. A nationally recognized infectious disease specialist with over 30 years of experience, Dr. Taplitz has dedicated her career to protecting immunocompromised patients, especially those with cancer. During the Eaton Fire, she led emergency efforts at the hospital, even as she learned her own home had been destroyed. Despite that personal loss, she never stopped and continued to care for patients. Her leadership was also critical during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping shape vaccine protocols for vulnerable populations. Dr. Taplitz is a tireless advocate and a true caregiver. 

Maricela Viramontes – President of the Rotary Club of Altadena

Maricela Viramontes is a community leader who has dedicated herself to Altadena for 24 years. A small business owner and Farmers Insurance provider, she also serves as President of the Rotary Club of Altadena and sits on the Altadena Chamber of Commerce board. When the Eaton Fire hit, destroying her own home, Maricela sprang into action. Under her leadership, the Rotary Club launched a relief grant program that has distributed over $160,000 to local nonprofits and provided essentials like food, clothing, and internet access. She also worked with the Chamber to help 15 small businesses reopen. Despite her personal loss, Maricela has been a beacon of strength.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) joined Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Work and Welfare, Rep. Danny Davis (IL-07), Ranking Member of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Work and Welfare, and Rep. Rudy Yakym (IN-02) today to introduce a resolution to designate the week of April 21 through April 25, 2025, as National Home Visiting Week. This resolution highlights the important role the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) programs have in support of childhood development, strengthening family relationships, and reducing the risk of child abuse and neglect.

“Home visiting services for pregnant women and families with young children have a proven track record of improving outcomes for children’s health, well-being, readiness for school, and success in life,” said Rep. Chu. “That’s why I was proud to partner with my colleagues in a bipartisan manner in 2022 to reauthorize and expand investments in the federal Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) program. And I’m happy to partner with my colleagues again in introducing this bipartisan resolution recognizing National Home Visiting Week and the importance of home visiting to family and child success.”

“Home visiting programs play a critical role in meaningful outcomes for babies and new parents,” said Rep. LaHood. “Built on decades of research, the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program serves as a national model for how social programs should operate, focusing on results. In 2023 alone, more than 16,400 families benefited from evidence-based home visits in Illinois. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution, alongside my colleagues, to recognize the value of these programs and to honor the dedicated work of home visitors who help families thrive.”

“Home visiting is a powerful, proven tool that helps young children and families thrive,” said Rep. Davis. “For decades, I’ve made it a top policy priority to bring this life-transforming program to all who need it, and I was proud to work with my friend Jackie Walorski on our successful bipartisan effort to double federal investment in the Maternal, Infant, Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program.  I will never stop fighting to protect MIECHV, and I am glad to join with Chair LaHood and my colleagues in leading this resolution to celebrate home visiting.”

“I’m honored to cosponsor the Home Visiting Resolution, which shines a spotlight on the critical role these programs play in nurturing our youngest children and supporting new mothers,” said Rep. Yakym. “My predecessor and dear friend, Jackie Walorski, was a tireless champion of the Maternal, Infant, Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program, leading the bipartisan effort to secure its reauthorization in 2022. Jackie often reminded us that ‘case managers are first responders,’ and this resolution celebrates their unwavering dedication and the transformative impact they have on families across America.”

Background:

The National Home Visiting Week Resolution notes that evidence-based home visiting programs were implemented across all 50 states, U.S. territories, and Indigenous communities in 2023, serving over 280,000 families and conducting more than 2.8 million home visits.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)

Washington, DC — Today Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after President Trump announced a trade deal between the United States and the United Kingdom.

“I’m pleased the Trump administration has struck an initial trade deal with one of our nation’s greatest trade partners and longest-standing allies. This is a significant step toward eliminating barriers to American products in foreign markets and friendshoring supply chains. I commend President Trump and his administration for conducting negotiations swiftly to the mutual benefit of our producers, job creators, and consumers. This agreement builds upon the groundwork laid in the President’s first term, and I am pleased the administration has indicated it continues to pursue dynamic dialogue with the United Kingdom to address additional concerns.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.) delivered an opening statement during the Ways and Means Committee’s markup of the Republican tax bill.

Video of her opening statement is available HERE and the text follows:

“Well, here we go again.

Republicans are once again choosing billionaires and big corporations over working families. This bill that we are marking up today is an insult to every hardworking American. It sends a very clear message: that you’ll pay more, and you’ll receive fewer services – just so that billionaires can pocket another tax cut that they really don’t need.

American families, in case you have noticed, are struggling. Under President Trump and Republican leadership, they have seen nothing but chaos. They’ve watched Elon Musk gleefully take a chainsaw to vital programs that they rely on, like Social Security, Medicare, and the VA. Travel is less safe at airports because they are left in disarray due to the cuts to our air traffic control systems.

Prices for everyday necessities – like food, clothing, diapers, and formula – keep rising because of Trump’s tariffs. Premiums for health insurance, car insurance, and housing are going up, making it harder and harder for families to make ends meet.

And now, rather than providing real relief, Republicans want to look at this chaos, put it into law, and call it ‘one beautiful bill.’ All to pay for more tax cuts for the rich while adding [trillions] to our national debt.

Nearly $20 trillion in debt over the next ten years by Republicans’ own members’ own estimates. Not our estimates – their estimates. Americans are worried about their future. Consumer confidence is at a record low. People are afraid of losing their jobs, their health care, student aid, and food assistance.

And this bill today compounds that pain. 14 million people will lose health care coverage under this plan. And for what? Again, so billionaires can get even richer while we all drown in debt. This is outrageous. Billionaires already have more money than they could ever spend. They can afford to pay their fair share.

What’s equally disturbing is you’re not being honest about the fact that you are meting out crumbs to the most needy while you are helping the most wealthy. And don’t buy the bullshit that tax cuts for the rich create more jobs or better wages. It’s been the excuse under every Republican administration in the last half-century to pass more and more tax cuts to the rich.

And it has failed to deliver on that promise each and every single time. The wealthy just got richer while the working families got harmed. All while piling on more debt that families will have to pay off.

I’m outraged that this committee is focused on doing more for the richest in this country while destroying the means of survival for the poorest. And this bill doubles down on that assault on those seeking the American Dream by stealing tax benefits and services to working people who are paying taxes!

It would deny the Child Tax Credit to 2 million U.S. citizen children. Even worse, it would deny Medicare coverage to those who’ve worked and paid into the system. How dare Republicans say they are for the working class when they’re making it harder for those struggling to get by?

Enough is enough. My constituents are fed up. They’re sick and tired of Republican tax cuts that only benefit the ultra-wealthy. Our tax code needs to be about fairness. It needs to be about balance. It should support families, not the rich. But this bill does the exact opposite.

To my Republican colleagues, I say: please just stop this insanity. You have to lie about what is in this bill; otherwise, probably, your constituents would be rioting in the streets. Here is an idea: how about you think about putting your constituents first for once, rather than the people who donate to your campaigns?

But I guess that is asking a little too much from people who have completely lost their moral compass. I will be voting ‘no’ on this bill. I hope some on that side of the aisle see the light and do the same.”

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