MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

TAMPA, Fla. – U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Kim Schrier (WA-08) and Lori Trahan (MA-03), member of the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee, wrote to Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg to urge immediate action to halt the deployment of all AI-powered social companion bots to users under the age of eighteen and any AI companion bot that simulates the likeness of a child or teen.

“It is our understanding that Meta facilitates inappropriate ‘romantic role-play’ with these companion bots that alarms even employees of your own company. These inappropriate AI systems pose significant safety risks to children and teenagers who use Meta’s platforms. It is paramount that social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp keep wellness, safety and the best interests of its youngest users at the center of all designs, and we do not believe that these chatbots meet these criteria,” the lawmakers wrote.

The lawmakers continued, “According to reporting, Meta staff specifically warned leadership that design choices ‘gave adult users access to hypersexualized underage AI personas and, conversely, gave underage users access to bots willing to engage in fantasy sex with children.’ Despite these internal warnings, Meta reportedly proceeded with deploying these technologies to maximize user engagement by loosening guardrails around sexual content in the process.”

The lawmakers’ letter follows a Wall Street Journal investigation that uncovered Meta’s AI companion bots engaged in sexually explicit conversations with accounts registered to minors, and continued inappropriate interactions while acknowledging the user was underage. Some bots went on to incorporate the minor’s age into sexual scenarios and discussed ways to avoid detection by parents. The investigation further revealed that some of Meta’s most popular companion bots are designed to impersonate children and teens, enabling adult users to engage in sexual roleplay with simulated minors.

Rep. Castor discussed the harms posed by chatbots on children in a recent Energy and Commerce hearing as House Republicans advanced their policy in a budget reconciliation package that included a ten-year state ban on regulating artificial intelligence.

Read the full letter here:

Dear Mr. Zuckerberg,

We write with strong concern regarding reports of Meta deploying AI-powered social companion bots to users under the age of 18, as well as deploying “companion bots” that simulate the likeness of children and teens. It is our understanding that Meta facilitates inappropriate “romantic role-play” with these companion bots that alarms even employees of your own company. These inappropriate AI systems pose significant safety risks to children and teenagers who use Meta’s platforms. It is paramount that social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp keep wellness, safety and the best interests of its youngest users at the center of all designs, and we do not believe that these chatbots meet these criteria.

A Wall Street Journal investigation has documented alarming instances in which Meta’s AI companion bots engaged in sexually explicit conversations with accounts registered to minors. Even more disturbing, the investigation found that some bots continued these inappropriate interactions while acknowledging the user was underage, with some bots even incorporating the minor’s age into sexual scenarios and discussing ways to avoid parental detection. The investigation further revealed that some of Meta’s most popular companion bots are designed to impersonate children and teens, enabling adults to engage in sexual roleplay with these simulated minors.

The dangers posed by these AI systems are substantial and immediate. Children and teens are especially vulnerable to forming unhealthy attachments to AI companions, which can lead to:

• Psychological dependency and addiction to these technologies;
• Disruption of normal social development and real-life human interactions;
• Exposure to age-inappropriate sexual content and conversations; and
• In the most tragic cases, serious harm or death. 

This follows a troubling trend that we have seen from Meta over the years. According to reporting, Meta staff specifically warned leadership that design choices “gave adult users access to hypersexualized underage AI personas and, conversely, gave underage users access to bots willing to engage in fantasy sex with children. “Despite these internal warnings, Meta reportedly proceeded with deploying these technologies to maximize user engagement by loosening guardrails around sexual content in the process.

This prioritization of profit and engagement over child safety follows a disconcerting pattern. Internal documents revealed in litigation have shown that Meta has knowledge of the negative impacts its engagement-maximizing features have on minors’ mental health and wellbeing, yet the company continues to push for increased usage among young users.

We urge Meta to take immediate action to halt the deployment of all AI-powered social companion bots to users under the age of 18 and halt the deployment of any AI companion bot that simulates the likeness of a child or teen.

Additionally, we request that you provide answers to the following questions by June 6, 2025:

1. Please identify what factors or training have led Meta’s AI companions to speak explicitly with known minor users.
2. Please identify what factors or training have led Meta’s AI companions that simulate the likeness of children and teens to speak explicitly with known adult users.
3. Please provide all internal communications, reports and analyses regarding the safety risks of Meta’s AI companions.
4. Please provide all internal warnings, concerns, or objections raised by Meta employees leading to deployment.
5. Did Meta conduct any research into or test the mental health impact of launching its AI companion bots to underage users? Please provide all relevant internal research or testing into the safety of Meta’s AI companions.
6. What safeguards will Meta implement to ensure that known adult users cannot engage in sexually explicit conversations with AI companions that simulate the likeness of children and teens.
7. Please provide a comprehensive list of all AI companion bots available on Meta platforms that are designed to simulate minors or that could appeal specifically to children and teens.

Almost a year and a half has passed since you publicly apologized to parents, many who’ve lost their children, for damage inflicted by Meta’s products and promised to undergo “industry-leading efforts to make sure that no one has to go through the types of things that your families have had to suffer.” Some of Meta’s youngest users have experienced sexual exploitation, been cyberbullied, or have developed unhealthy eating habits or suicide and self-injury behaviors that have been promoted to them by Meta’s algorithms. Despite this, Meta has deployed its new harmful companion bot feature, prioritizing profits over the safety and wellbeing of children and teenagers. It is Meta’s responsibility to facilitate an online environment that is safe, especially for your youngest users.

We look forward to your prompt response and to working together to ensure the protection of children and teens online.

Sincerely,

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) has requested $36,773,695 for 15 local projects in the Fiscal Year 2026 spending bill. Larsen submitted the requests to the House Appropriations Committee as the Committee begins work on legislation to fund the federal government.

“My priority in shaping spending bills is to invest in Northwest Washington communities,” said Larsen. “I will continue to work closely with community leaders and stakeholders to secure critical funding to create more jobs, build better infrastructure and improve vital services residents rely on.”

The spending bill will include earmark funding for community projects that local leaders and stakeholders identified as critical to their communities. Larsen secured more than $19.3 million for 15 Northwest Washington projects in the Fiscal Year 2024 spending package, which was signed into law in March 2024.

Northwest Washington Community Project Funding Requests

Larsen requested the following earmarks to invest in Northwest Washington communities:

Investing in a Cleaner, Greener, Safer and More Accessible Transportation System

• Community Transit’s Bus Replacement Project: This project will enable Community Transit to purchase two battery electric buses with chargers to replace diesel buses that are beyond their expected useful life. ($3,000,000)
• City of Lynden’s Pepin Flood, Agriculture, Salmon and Safety Transportation (FASST): This project will complete design and support construction of a new channel for Pepin Creek, and complete design and construction of the Pepin Parkway Bridge. ($2,448,000)
• Snohomish County’s Everett Intermodal Yard and Curve Improvements: The project will improve rail shipping capability, safety, and reliability for freight and intercity passenger service at the Everett Intermodal Yard. These improvements will benefit both BNSF freight trains and Amtrak Cascades service. ($2,000,000)

Investing in Community Services

• City of Anacortes’ Community Event Center: The project will support final design and construction for a central event space to host large-scale tourist-oriented events, local nonprofit events and private rentals located near the Anacortes waterfront and downtown. ($3,000,000)
• Lopez Island Family Resource Center’s Food Center: This project will construct a mixed-use food center, including a community kitchen, shared farm stand, rental spaces, and gathering areas for pop-up shops, in addition to a home base for the San Juan Food Hub and local food bank. ($2,500,000)
• City of Edmonds’ Food Bank and Community Engagement Space: This project will support an expanded facility for Edmonds Food Bank, including increased food bank space, a commercial kitchen, an urban garden and community meeting spaces. ($2,000,000)
• City of Bellingham’s Bellingham Central Library Renovation: This project will support exterior renovation of the Bellingham Central Library, including updated windows, upgraded main and children’s entrances, and a refreshed plaza. ($2,000,000)
• Whatcom County and Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County’s (DVSAS) Douglas Building Preservation: This project will support the renovation of a building used by DVSAS to serve survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ($1,510,295)
• Whatcom County Sheriff Office’s Portable Radio Replacement Project: This project will support the purchase of new portable radios to replace outdated radios that are failing, allowing deputies to communicate clearly with dispatch and each other. ($600,000)
• Orcas Senior Center’s Roof Replacement: This project will repair the failing roof of the facility, ensuring seniors can continue to access services. ($175,000)

Investing in Education and Workforce Development

• Edmonds College and Latino Educational Training Institute’s (LETI) Incubator for Family Success: This project will establish a comprehensive community center that includes a cultural retention and arts center, vocational school, commercial kitchen, deli-specialty store and child care circles. ($4,250,000)
• Western Washington University’s (WWU) Shannon Point Marine Center Research Vessel: This project will support acquisition of a new research vessel for WWU marine and coastal science educational and research activities. ($1,490,400)

Investing in Critical Infrastructure

• Port of Everett’s South Marina Terminal Replacement Project: The project will replace the existing Dock 1 in the South Marina that has exceeded its useful life with a new structure that will provide greater utility capacity to serve potential small cruise and passenger ferry service. ($5,000,000)
• Port of Edmonds’ North Portwalk and Seawall Reconstruction: This project will repair the Port’s seawall, which is urgently needed to protect the Port and surrounding community from flooding and extreme weather. The project will also create new public use spaces for recreational activity and replace the boardwalk to improve public access and increase economic development for the businesses on and surrounding the port. ($4,000,000)
• Island County’s Recycling and Reuse Station: This project will build a new solid waste transfer station that will significantly enhance the efficiency of the county’s waste management processes, reducing costs for local rate payers and mitigating associated impacts to public health, safety and the environment. ($2,800,000)

What Northwest Washington Community Leaders and Stakeholders Are Saying

Community Transit CEO Ric Ilgenfritz on the Bus Replacement Project: “Community Transit ensures that people of all walks of life can easily and reliably get from where they are to where they want to be. In order to live up to this mission, it’s critical that buses are maintained and replaced according to schedule. We are grateful to Rep. Larsen for prioritizing the Bus Replacement Project, enabling us to serve customers with lower pollution buses that benefit everyone in Snohomish County.”

Lynden Mayor Scott Korthuis on the Pepin Flood, Agriculture, Salmon and Safety Transportation (FASST) Project: “The Lynden FASST project (Flood, Agriculture, Salmon, Safety and Transportation) is a significant investment in infrastructure for the city to provide housing opportunities in what is a difficult area of the city to develop.  With the support of Representative Larsen on this project, we will continue to develop the needed infrastructure in this area of the city and provide a variety of housing types.  We greatly appreciate Representative Larsen moving this project forward and investing in Lynden.”

Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers on the Everett Intermodal Yard and Curve Improvements Project: “We are grateful for Congressman Larsen’s support for this vital rail project. If we receive the funding, the renovated intermodal yard will allow us and our rail partners to continue a sustainable and low impact operation for our residents, ensuring public health and safety are prioritized.”

Anacortes Mayor Matt Miller on the Anacortes Community Event Center project: “We are deeply grateful to Congressman Larsen for championing the Anacortes Community Event Center project. His support for this waterfront facility—developed in partnership with the Port of Anacortes—reflects a strong commitment to strengthening our community, our economy, and our shared public spaces. This proposed investment will help create a vibrant gathering place for residents and visitors alike, and we appreciate the Congressman’s leadership in moving this vision forward.”

Lopez Island Family Resource Center Executive Director Barbara Schultheiss on the Lopez Food Center Project: “The Lopez Food Center believes that a thriving local food system and strong economy are essential to a healthy, sustainable life here on Lopez. The construction of the food center will create a vital central gathering place—that will provide a much needed new space for the food bank; increase sales of local farm products with space for a communal farm stand and the San Juan Food Hub; creates opportunities for food businesses to grow/expand with storage, commercial kitchen and event space; and, provide critical trainings and supports for food businesses.  This shared facility will increase efficient food production and distribution and support the health and well-being of Lopez Island residents by increasing access to nutritious food and hands-on opportunities in the local food economy.”

Edmonds Mayor Mike Rosen on the Edmonds Food Bank and Community Engagement Space Project: “We greatly appreciate the leadership of Rep. Larsen to support the Edmonds Food Bank. We know that many people in our community are struggling with food insecurity, and sadly the numbers are increasing, so this funding request is vitally important.”

Edmonds Food Bank Executive Director Casey Davis on the Edmonds Food Bank and Community Engagement Space Project: “We are incredibly grateful to Representative Larsen for continuing to advocate for our community. As the need for food assistance continues to rise and other critical funding sources are eliminated, this $2 million request is vital to help us build a new facility that meets the growing needs of the individuals we serve in a respectful and efficient way. A new food bank and community engagement space will allow us to provide not only nutritious and culturally relevant food, but also deeper connection, dignity, and resources for long-term stability for our entire community. We cannot do this alone, we need the strength of continued partnerships to make this vision a reality.”

Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund on the Bellingham Central Library Renovation Project: “Our library is a well-loved institution that gives community members opportunities to learn, grow, and connect. We are grateful for Rep. Larsen’s request for funding, which would help us make the library more accessible, comfortable, and welcoming, especially for families and children.”

Whatcom County Health and Community Services Co-Health Officer Dr. Amy Harley on the DVSAS Douglas Building Preservation Project: “Whatcom County Health and Community Services is pleased to support the rehabilitation of the Douglas Building, the home of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County (DVSAS) in Bellingham. Washington. The Douglas building is used to provide critical counseling, legal support, and children’s programs for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and sexual exploitation, and is an essential part of the continuum of care for this vulnerable population. The Douglas Building, however, is more than a building – it’s a lifeline for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Whatcom County. Investing in its rehabilitation will ensure that DVSAS staff can continue to provide high-quality, trauma-informed care in a safe and trusted location, where individuals and families can begin the process of healing with dignity and respect.”

Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County on the DVSAS Douglas Building Preservation Project: “Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County (DVSAS) extends its deepest gratitude to Congressman Larsen and his team for their efforts in prioritizing funding to preserve our downtown support center. Securing this vital funding guarantees continued access to essential services for individuals experiencing domestic or sexual violence, ensuring survivors have a lifeline to safety and immediate access to crisis services. Congressman Larsen’s commitment to preserving our downtown support center ensures everyone in our community has access to safety and support, now and for years to come.”

Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell “Tank” Tanksley on the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Department Portable Radio Replacement Project: “Great training and bullet-proof vests aren’t all that keep our Patrol Deputies safe. Portable radios ensure deputies can communicate hazards, status and needs in the field. During the upcoming World Cup – with matches in Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. – increasing traffic through Whatcom County, it is vital that radios are interoperable with international agencies. Our current portables are not. We are grateful to Congressman Rick Larsen for his support of this essential need.”

Orcas Senior Center Board Member John Ehrmantraut on the Orcas Senior Center Roof Replacement Project: “As Chair of Orcas Senior Center, I can’t stress enough how critical it is to replace our aging roof —not just to protect the building, but to safeguard the essential services and sense of community this space provides to Orcas Island residents. This center is a cornerstone of our island community, and protecting it means protecting the people who rely on it every day.”

Edmonds College President Dr. Amit Singh on the LETI Incubator for Family Success Project: “Edmonds College is committed to our partnership with LETI in supporting first generation immigrants and their success. This resource center will empower individuals and families by providing assistance with everything from navigating social services to pursuing higher education. I am very thankful to Representative Larsen for his ongoing support of LETI and Edmonds College.”

Founder & CEO of Latino Educational Training Institute Rosario Reyes on the LETI Incubator for Family Success Project: “We deeply appreciate Representative Larsen’s support for LETI’s Incubator for Family Success and are grateful to Edmonds College for joining us as a vital partner in this initiative. This new center will serve as a lasting community hub for Latino and low-income families in Snohomish County—a place to celebrate culture, host life events, and access essential services. With dedicated offices and classrooms, LETI will continue advancing its mission to empower Latino families through education, business development, family health, and support for financial advancement.”

Western Washington University President Sabah Randhawa on the Shannon Point Marine Center Research Vessel Project: “Western Washington University appreciates Representative Larsen’s efforts to include funding for a new research vessel at Shannon Point Marine Center as part of the FY26 budget. If funded, this investment will significantly enhance our ability to study the Salish Sea and surrounding coastal ecosystems while expanding hands-on research opportunities for Washington’s next generation of scientists.”

Port of Everett CEO Lisa Lefeber on the South Marina Terminal Replacement Project: “The reconstruction of Dock 1 will bring new commercial opportunities to the Everett waterfront, including possible passenger-only ferry service and small regional cruise visits for the first time to the area. This investment in transportation infrastructure will benefit jobs and recreation, therefore investing in our economy. The Port of Everett appreciates Congressman Larsen’s support of this infrastructure investment.”

Port of Edmonds Commission President David Preston on the North Portwalk and Seawall Reconstruction Project: “We are grateful to Representative Rick Larsen for his continued support of the North Portwalk and Seawall Reconstruction Project. The Port will utilize funds to advance our project into its third and final phase. Vital repairs to the marina seawall will protect the Port and the surrounding area from flooding, erosion, and storm surges. At the same time, the improvements to the Port’s boardwalk will enhance the public’s use and experience on the waterfront.”

Chair of the Board of Island County Commissioners Jill Johnson on the Island County Recycling and Reuse Station Project: “We are incredibly grateful for Representative Larsen’s leadership and support for Island County. Federal funding for the Island County Recycling and Reuse Station will improve upon and expand the county’s waste removal and recycling capacity, directly enabling growth and increasing environmental resiliency.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

May 29, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today reintroduced the Valid Benefits Act to require federal agencies and departments verify the eligibility of individuals 105 years of age or older for federal benefits.“No American who has paid into Social Security and Medicare should see their benefits compromised by scam artists or incompetent bureaucrats,” said Rep. Steube. “It shouldn’t have required DOGE examining the rolls to ensure 12 million Americans listed as 120 years old or more were finally properly recorded as deceased. With millions of seniors relying on Social Security and Medicare and our national debt approaching $37 trillion, it is important to make sure every dollar is spent the right way with no room for malfeasance or error. That is why we must protect our retirement programs and beneficiaries by requiring eligibility verification for individuals who are 105 years and older.”Background:First proposed by Representative Steube in 2019, the Valid Benefits Act builds upon the recent work of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to eliminate redundancies, fraud, and waste in federal bureaucracy by mandating verification of eligibility for federal benefits for all individuals 105 years of age or older.Read the full bill here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) announced nine students from California’s 26th Congressional District, who she nominated to the U.S. Service Academies and who have accepted appointments to attend these prestigious institutions of higher learning in the fall. This year, there were fifteen appointments for students throughout Ventura County and the Conejo Valley, with some students receiving more than one appointment to multiple service academies.

“Every year, the service academy nomination and appointment process shows us that the future of our country is in good hands,” said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. “I am so proud of these young people who are answering the call to serve our nation in uniform. These students are among the best and brightest of our region, and I know they will represent us well.”

The students are as follows:

U.S. Air Force Academy

• Colin McNulty, Newbury Park High School
• Duc-Han “Kusa” Nguyen, Newbury Park High School
• Justin Lee, Oaks Christian School
• Rohan Solanki, U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School

U.S. Military Academy

• Cooper McNee, Oaks Christian School
• Aviel Cohen, Westlake High School

U.S. Naval Academy

• Reagan Maguire, La Reina High School
• Noah Stead, Westlake High School

U.S. Merchant Marine Academy 

• Zachariah Sujae-Khoi Diep, Weil Tennis Academy and College Preparatory School

Photos are available here. 

Background

The rigorous nomination and appointment process began last fall with students throughout Ventura County and the Conejo Valley submitting lengthy applications to Congresswoman Brownley’s office. The students were then interviewed by a panel of alumni of the U.S. Service Academies convened by the Congresswoman. The panel then provided the Congresswoman recommendations for each student, and the Congresswoman nominated candidates to the service academies based on the panel’s recommendations. Each nominee then went through the academy application process before a select group were offered appointments.

The honor of attending a service academy comes with an obligation and commitment to serve in the U.S. military for a minimum of five years upon graduation.

More information about the U.S. Service Academies and the Congressional nomination process is available here.

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Issues: 119th Congress, Education, Local Issues

Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) joined Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29), Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), California Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (CA), and 33 of her Democratic colleagues in urging U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem to reconsider the termination of the legal status of S.G.V. (identified by her initials for privacy reasons). S.G.V. is a four-year-old girl from Bakersfield living with short bowel syndrome who is facing deportation and could die if she loses medical care at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. S.G.V. and her family’s story was highlighted in a May 27 Los Angeles Times article. 

“We urge you to reconsider the termination of S.G.V. and her family’s legal status as S.G.V.’s doctors say she could die within days without treatment,” wrote the members. “Due to S.G.V.’s short bowel syndrome, she receives intensive medical treatments such as: being tethered to feeding tubes 24 hours a day; spending 14 hours each night being hooked up to an intravenous feeding system; and receiving a different type of nutrition via a gastric tube into her stomach four times a day. In 2023, S.G.V. and her family were allowed to enter the U.S. legally on humanitarian grounds.” 

“Your Department has revoked this child’s legal status in the U.S., which interrupts the urgent, life-saving care she receives at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles every six weeks. We believe this family’s situation clearly meets the need for humanitarian aid and urge you and this Administration to reconsider its decision. It is our duty to protect the sick, vulnerable, and defenseless. Without action, S.G.V. will die. We urge a prompt response from your Department and a swift decision to extend this family’s legal status in the U.S.” 

The letter was also co-signed by Representatives Nanette Barragán, Salud Carbajal, Greg Casar, Joaquin Castro, Judy Chu, Gilbert Cisneros, Maxine Dexter, Adriano Espaillat, Jim Costa, Veronica Escobar, Laura Friedman, Jesús “Chuy” García, Sylvia Garcia, Daniel Goldman, Jimmy Gomez, Pramila Jayapal, Teresa Leger Fernandez, Ted Lieu, Seth Magaziner, Robert Menendez, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Delia Ramirez, Andrea Salinas, Linda Sánchez, Lateefah Simon, Darren Soto, Jill Tokuda, Norma Torres, Derek Tran, Juan Vargas, Gabe Vasquez, Nydia Velázquez, and Eugene Vindman. 

The full letter can be found here and below: 

The Honorable Kristi Noem
Secretary U.S. Department of Homeland Security
2707 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE
Washington, DC 20528

Dear Secretary Noem: 

In April 2025, Deysi Vargas, her husband, and four-year-old daughter, identified as S.G.V., received a notice that their legal status in the United States had been terminated, and in May, Deysi received notice that her employment authorization had also been terminated. S.G.V. suffers from short bowel syndrome, a rare condition that prevents her body from completely absorbing the nutrients of regular food. We urge you to reconsider the termination of S.G.V. and her family’s legal status as S.G.V.’s doctors say she could die within days without treatment. 

Due to S.G.V.’s short bowel syndrome, she receives intensive medical treatments such as: being tethered to feeding tubes 24 hours a day; spending 14 hours each night being hooked up to an intravenous feeding system; and receiving a different type of nutrition via a gastric tube into her stomach four times a day. In 2023, S.G.V. and her family were allowed to enter the U.S. legally on humanitarian grounds. 

Your Department has revoked this child’s legal status in the U.S., which interrupts the urgent, life-saving care she receives at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles every six weeks. 

On the President’s first day in office he issued an Executive Order stating that, “ensuring that the parole authority under section 212(d)(5) of the INA (8 U.S.C. 1182(d)(5)) is exercised on only a case-by-case basis in accordance with the plain language of the statute, and in all circumstances only when an individual alien demonstrates urgent humanitarian reasons or a significant public benefit derived from their particular continued presence in the United States arising from such parole.” 

We believe this family’s situation clearly meets the need for humanitarian aid and urge you and this Administration to reconsider its decision. It is our duty to protect the sick, vulnerable, and defenseless. Without action, S.G.V. will die. We urge a prompt response from your Department and a swift decision to extend this family’s legal status in the U.S.

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Issues: 119th Congress, Healthcare, Immigration, Local Issues

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Peters (52nd District of California)

Washington, DC – Today, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50) and local housing service providers highlighted the encouraging results from this year’s Point-in-Time Count and the need for Congress to continue funding proven strategies that are making a difference to curb veteran homelessness in San Diego. The Point-in-Time Count revealed that veteran homelessness in San Diego County is down 25 percent.  

“No one who honorably served our nation should end up living on the street,” said Rep. Scott Peters. “The results of this year’s Point in Time Count show we are headed in the right direction, but we can’t continue to make progress toward reducing veteran homelessness, or homelessness among any population, if our local partners cannot count on support from the federal government. I urge my Republican colleagues to stand up for the investments and the federal jobs that are helping us get people off the street and into safe, stable housing.”  

Rep Peters brought service providers, case managers, and veterans who utilize these programs together to discuss San Diego’s ongoing efforts to end veteran homelessness. They also discussed the harm that proposed funding and staffing cuts at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) would have on our communities.  

“San Diegans want to see continued progress in reducing homelessness,” said San Diego City Councilmember Stephen Whitburn. “One reason we have made progress is that Congressman Peters has brought funding home to San Diego to help end veteran homelessness. But continued progress depends on the federal government continuing to fund these programs.”

“Every veteran we house and help reintegrate into the community is a success story,” said Hanan Scrapper, PATH San Diego Regional Director. “With continued support, we can make veteran homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring. Let’s not forget—these are more than statistics; they’re real people, real stories, and there are real threats to the progress we’ve made. With bipartisan commitment and sustained focus, we can not only end veteran homelessness, but we can also build a blueprint to end homelessness for all Americans.”

“We can trace that result to targeted federal funding, local collaboration, and housing options available to veterans,” Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH) CEO, Tamera Kohler said. “RTFH recently started producing monthly data reports focused entirely on veteran homelessness because it’s our goal to ensure every veteran has a place to call home. We can’t do that without federal funding. Washington plays a central role in this collaborative effort to reduce and ultimately end veteran homelessness. We must sustain and enhance this commitment for all who have served this country.”

“The Point-in-Time Count this year provided a glimpse of the positive results collaboration, coordination and commitment can produce in our community, but funding is key,” San Diego Housing Commission President and CEO Lisa Jones said. “We thank Congressman Peters for his leadership, advocacy and support of the federal funding that is crucial to continuing to advance comprehensive homelessness solutions.”  

“Thanks to PATH and my case managers, I’ve been able to stabilize my life and get back to work,” said William Applegate, a veteran and PATH program participant who struggled with homelessness after a divorce and challenges with his mental health. “In January, I moved into my own place thanks to my HUD-VASH voucher and all the support I was offered.”

Rep. Peters is working to bring down the cost of housing by cutting red tape so America can build more low- and middle-income housing faster. He has also authored legislation that is now law to expand the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing, (HUD-VASH) program and legislation to ensure non-profits can directly administer homelessness assistance grants to those who need it. Last year, the House of Representatives adopted a bipartisan amendment led by Rep. Peters encouraging local VA systems and public housing authorities to work together to streamline the HUD-VASH voucher application process in order to reduce barriers for veterans seeking housing assistance.

Rep. Peters fought back and stopped the Trump Administration from cutting housing vouchers for homeless veterans in 2018. He will push back once again if President Trump and Republicans’ actions threaten to roll back hard-fought progress to house our nation’s heroes.    

A livestreamed recording of the press conference can be found here.

Additional photos from the event are available courtesy of Rep. Peters’ office here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) released the following statement after President Donald Trump signed an executive order to undermine the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s ability to independently and responsibly regulate civilian nuclear activity in the United States. The order, titled “Ordering the Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission,” directs the Commission to facilitate the expansion of nuclear energy, coordinate with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to cut staff and overhaul existing regulations, set time limits on license application reviews, and reduce public input under the guise of streamlining.

“The Central Coast is home to California’s last remaining active nuclear power plant, Diablo Canyon. Our community understands that safety must always come first when using nuclear energy,” said Rep. Carbajal. “President Trump’s order to shake up the Nuclear Regulatory Commission is yet another reckless decision that could weaken the agency’s ability to protect communities near nuclear plants. I will fight any attempts to roll back the safety and environmental protections that keep Central Coast residents safe.”

Diablo Canyon, situated just north of Avila Beach in San Luis Obispo County, generates 9% of California’s total electricity.

In February 2024, Rep. Carbajal, along with Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA-49), introduced legislation to raise the design standards on waste canisters for spent nuclear fuel. The 100 Year Canister Actwould require the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to change the minimum design lifespan for canisters from the current regulation of 40 years to 100 years. This bill would ensure spent nuclear fuel remains safe within its canister for longer as more long-term solutions are developed to store and ultimately dispose of spent nuclear fuel.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

“A decision to pursue a career in public health is a noble and worthwhile decision, and to do so especially right now, is in and of itself, an act of radical courage.”

“Keep dreaming and remain in unapologetic and in active pursuit of making those dreams a reality, just as you did with your degree. Change can’t wait. And neither can the world—for you.”

BOSTON – In case you missed it, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) delivered the keynote address at the Boston University School of Public Health’s (BUSPH) 2025 Convocation in which she shared a powerful and personal message of hope, urgency, and moral clarity. In her remarks, Rep. Pressley described her own journey at Boston University, discussed the critical role of public health professionals amidst the Trump Administration’s anti-health, anti-science, and anti-research agenda, and encouraged graduates to continue doing the work necessary to build a more just and healthy world.

A transcript of the Congresswoman’s remarks, as delivered, is available below, and the full video is available here.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 22, 2025

Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov

Rep. Barragán Slams House Republicans for Advancing Trump’s Tax Scam Bill to Put Billionaires Over Working Families

Washington, D.C. — Today, House Republicans forced through Donald Trump’s Tax Scam budget bill — a sweeping proposal that slashes support for working families in order to fund tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy. Not a single Democrat voted for the bill.

Knowing that Americans would disapprove of the Tax Scam bill, House Republicans opened debate on the bill in the dead of night, when they thought Americans would be unaware of their betrayal. House Democrats, however, stayed up throughout the long nights to offer amendment after amendment to lessen the harms of the bill — these amendments were all rejected by Republicans. 

The bill would slash nearly one trillion dollars from Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, and trigger more than $500 billion in cuts to Medicare — ripping health care away from millions of Americans. It would also drastically cut food assistance, leaving children, seniors, veterans, and low-income families at greater risk of going hungry. And by prioritizing tax breaks for the wealthy, the bill would drive down household income for the lowest-income families. 

“Americans only needed four Republicans to do the right thing and vote no on the House floor,” said Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44). “It is a sad day for our country when House Republicans choose to rubber-stamp Donald Trump’s Tax Scam — handing tax breaks to their billionaire donors while turning their backs on parents, kids, grandparents, veterans, and people with disabilities. People’s lives are at stake, and Republicans have shown exactly where their priorities lie.”

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 22, 2025

Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov

Rep. Nanette Barragán Leads Entire California Democratic Delegation in Urging Trump Administration to Protect Head Start Funding

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44) led the entire California Democratic Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to President Donald Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., urging them to safeguard federal funding for the Head Start program. The letter comes in response to alarming reports that the Trump Administration considered eliminating Head Start funding during recent federal budget discussions.

“From Los Angeles County to the Central Valley to rural tribal lands, Head Start provides comprehensive early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services to children who are disproportionately impacted by poverty and housing instability,” wrote the members. “These essential services support our state’s economy by allowing parents to work and go to school, while giving our future workforce the strong start that they need to be successful later in life.”

California is home to one of the largest populations of Head Start children in the nation. In Fiscal Year 2023 alone, Head Start and Early Head Start programs served more than 94,000 children across the state. These programs offer critical support to children by integrating early education with health, nutrition, and family services—providing targeted support to those experiencing poverty, housing insecurity, and systemic inequities.

“The elimination or reduction of Head Start funding would be catastrophic,” the letter states. “In California, it would shut the doors of 1,835 Head Start and Early Head Start Centers and eliminate access to early education for tens of thousands of children—disproportionately children of color, English learners, children with disabilities, and those living in low-income and rural communities.”

Since its founding in 1965, Head Start has served over 40 million children and families nationwide. Decades of research confirm that the program improves school readiness, boosts long-term academic and employment outcomes, and helps break the cycle of poverty.

“Head Start is not optional—it is a national commitment that must be honored,” members added. “I will continue fighting to protect this vital investment in our children’s futures.”

Rep. Barragán’s letter was co-signed by each of the 45 Democratic members of the California Congressional Delegation: Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, and Representatives Pete Aguilar, Nancy Pelosi, Robert Garcia, Linda Sánchez, John Garamendi, Kevin Mullin, Mark Takano, Ted Lieu, Julia Brownley, Maxine Waters, Laura Friedman, J. Luis Correa, Ro Khanna, Mike Thompson, Norma Torres, Mark DeSaulnier, Juan Vargas, Gilbert Ray Cisneros, Jr., Judy Chu, Derek Tran, Raul Ruiz, Jared Huffman, Doris Matsui, Salud Carbajal, Brad Sherman, Ami Bera, Jimmy Panetta, Zoe Lofgren, Eric Swalwell, Lateefah Simon, Dave Min, Jimmy Gomez, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Jim Costa, George Whitesides, Luz Rivas, Sara Jacobs, Scott Peters, Josh Harder, Adam Gray, Mike Levin, and Sam Liccardo.

The full letter can be found here and below:

President Trump and Secretary Kennedy:

We write today to express serious concern over reports that your Administration considered proposals to eliminate federal funding for the Department of Health and Human Services’ Head Start program in recent budget discussions. While we are relieved that the White House Office of Management and Budget’s Fiscal Year 2026 proposal did not include this cut, that such an action was even contemplated underscores the vulnerability of this vital program under your Administration. As members of the California Congressional Delegation, we urge you to safeguard this critical program, which plays an irreplaceable role in supporting California’s children and families, especially those facing economic hardship and systemic barriers.

California is home to one of the largest populations of Head Start children in the nation. In Fiscal Year 2023 alone, more than 94,000 children and pregnant women in California were served by Head Start and Early Head Start programs.^[1] These services are not just beneficial—they are essential. From Los Angeles County to the Central Valley to rural tribal lands, Head Start provides comprehensive early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services to children who are disproportionately impacted by poverty and housing instability. These essential services support our state’s economy by allowing parents to work and go to school, while giving our future workforce the strong start that they need to be successful later in life.

Since its founding in 1965, Head Start has supported more than 40 million children and their families nationwide—and millions in California alone.^[2] Research continues to confirm what educators and parents have long known: Head Start works. It boosts school readiness, improves long-term academic outcomes, increases high school graduation and employment rates, and helps break cycles of generational poverty.

The elimination or reduction of Head Start funding would be catastrophic. In California, it would shut the doors of 1,835 Head Start and Early Head Start Centers and eliminate access to early education for tens of thousands of children—disproportionately children of color, English learners, children with disabilities, and those living in low-income and rural communities.^[3] Thousands of parents would also lose their ability to go to work or school, and otherwise participate in the economy.

Head Start is not optional—it is a national commitment that must be honored. For these reasons, we urge you to reject any future attempts to weaken or eliminate this program and to ensure its continued success for the children and families who rely on it every day.

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