Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, each year, through the Women of the Year Award, my office extends special recognition to women on the Central Coast who have made a difference in our community. I would like to recognize one outstanding Women of the Year Award recipient, Karen Flock of Ventura, California.

Karen Flock epitomizes a life of advocacy and service to marginalized people in our region. Her first exposure to advocacy was as a volunteer with the United Farm Workers Union (UFW) in 1973 and 1974, while she was a college student. Armed with a B.A. in Economics from Reed College in 1975, the UFW enlisted Karen to help Ventura County farm workers negotiate their collective bargaining agreements after they voted for UFW representation in elections conducted by the Agricultural Labor Relations Board.

Karen dedicated five years to the UFW farm worker movement in Ventura County, then joined Channel Counties Legal Services to stand up for Rancho Sespe farm workers who were being evicted from their homes. These efforts to stop the evictions eventually led Karen to join Rodney Fernandez, who she worked with to create the Rancho Sespe Housing Complex on Highway 126 in Fillmore.

Fernandez recruited Karen to work with him at Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), the purpose of developing homes for farm workers, low wage workers, seniors and the disabled. Karen rose from Project Manager to Real Estate Development Director, and her work with CEDC over the next thirty-five years fueled her passion and honed her affordable housing development skills into a lifelong career. In 1986, Karen completed a National Internship in Community Economic Development, and in 2006-2008 she was recognized by NeighborWorks with America's Harvard Award for excellence in Community Development.

In 2016, Karen took her skills to the San Buenaventura Housing Authority, and is currently the Real Estate Development Director, where she leads the agency's efforts to create new affordable housing developments. In this role, she has been a tireless activist and a major player in protecting the homeless population of Ventura. She believes that homelessness must be addressed by providing housing for people.

On October 18, 2023, Karen received the 1st Annual Carmen Ramirez Housing Advocacy Award from H.O.M.E (Housing Opportunities Made Easier). She also received the El Concilio del Condado de Ventura 16th Annual Latino Leadership Award for Community Service.

I am honored to recognize Karen Flock for her continued commitment and tireless efforts to provide affordable housing on the Central Coast. I ask all Members to join me today in honoring an exceptional woman of California's 24th Congressional District, Karen Flock, for her incredible service to her community.

Mr. Speaker, each year, through the Women of the Year Award, my office extends special recognition to women on the Central Coast who have made a difference in our community. I would like to recognize one outstanding Women of the Year Award recipient, Marian Shapiro of Goleta, California.

Marian Shapiro grew up in Berkeley, and first arrived in the district in 1960 as a UCSB freshman. She returned in 1968, when her husband was in a doctoral program at UCSB. Her husband's job took them to a small university town in rural Kansas, where Marian

raised her two kids while advocating for women's reproductive rights and LGBTQ rights. She fought against hatred and led the way in human rights efforts.

In 1980, she traveled from Kansas to D.C. as a delegate to the National League of Women Voters conference. In her televised meeting with President Jimmy Carter, she spoke on behalf of the Floridian delegation asking President Carter to address the immigration crisis in Florida. A woman of many talents, she lobbied legislators while singing and playing the guitar at many women's movement events.

Marian designed and led a number of workshops in conservative towns for Parents & Daughters and Parents & Sons, teaching them how to talk about puberty, dating, emotional management, and consent.

In retirement, the Shapiros were thrilled to return to Goleta, where Marian taught for 11 years at Santa Barbara City College. She served on several boards, including Democratic Women of Santa Barbara County as well as the Democratic Service Club, and always volunteered to elect candidates for public office. One of her proudest accomplishments has been organizing her Big List of individuals who share her views on caring for the planet and human rights, and who respond to her Shapiro Action Alerts. The group has grown to include 650 recipients who appreciate her calls to action and her notices of important events or protest demonstrations they may not know about.

At 81 years old, Marian enjoys making pottery and has become an excellent photographer. She adores her children and relatives. You will often see Marian lending her photography skills to events for political candidates and non-profits alike. Her captures continue to be featured in publications like Noozhawk, Montecito Journal and the Santa Barbara Independent, often depicting the ongoing social and political movements of our district and has contributed many letters to our local publications.

I am honored to recognize Marian Shapiro. Throughout the Central Coast and, indeed, across the Nation, countless people know Marian Shapiro for her tireless service to a multitude of causes. I ask all Members to join me today in honoring an exceptional woman of California's 24th Congressional District, Marian Shapiro, for her incredible service to her community.

Mr. Speaker, each year, through the Women of the Year Award, my office extends special recognition to women on the Central Coast who have made a difference in our community. I would like to recognize one outstanding Women of the Year Award recipient, Dr. Elaine Yin of Santa Maria, California.

Dr. Elaine Yin is a dedicated obstetrician-gynecologist based in Santa Maria, California. She embodies the essence of compassionate care and service to California's 24th District, where she's resided for over two decades. Dr. Yin has a strong commitment to women's health, practicing at the Santa Maria Women's Health Center and collaborating on research with researchers at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo while maintaining affiliations with Marian Regional Medical Center and French Hospital Medical Center.

Dr. Yin obtained her medical degree at Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple, where she laid the foundation for her expertise in robotic surgery and high-risk obstetrics. She utilizes her knowledge in collaboration with researchers at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, making significant contributions to important studies examining the relationship between nutrition and outcomes for mothers and newborns in patients with obesity-related conditions. Through this research, Dr. Yin seeks to improve clinical outcomes and empower women with knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

One of the main highlights of Dr. Yin's career was establishing the obstetrics-gynecology residency program at Marian Regional Medical Center six years ago Her spearheading of this program marked a monumental milestone in medical education for the region, producing highly skilled professionals who have filled the gap for obstetrics- gynecology professionals in Santa Barbara County.

Dr. Yin's impact on our community goes beyond her professional career. A patron of the

arts, she generously supports the Cal Poly Performing Arts Center, recognizing the importance of cultural enrichment in fostering the vibrant community of San Luis Obispo. Additionally, Dr. Yin's advocacy extends to underserved populations, including the Mixteco community, where she tirelessly works to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps and dismantle barriers to healthcare access.

Dr. Elaine Yin's nomination for Central Coast Woman of the Year for the 24th Congressional District is a testament to her remarkable contributions as a healthcare professional, community leader, and advocate for underserved populations. Her dedication, compassion, and unwavering service make her an inspiration to all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to point out just how out of step this House Republican majority is; not just with the American people, but with their own party.

This resolution denounces the free market, capitalist solution to lower carbon pollution that originally was introduced by Republicans. That is right, Republicans, the GOP.

Are we not for a free market anymore?

I am old enough to remember when it was Republicans in this Chamber who came to the well, as I am doing today, to speak in support of carbon pricing, but now it is a radical idea.

Even today, there are bipartisan bills, including some that I am co- leading, that would put a price on carbon, protect our markets from pollution-intensive foreign goods, and put money back in the American people's pockets.

Americans support putting a price on carbon by a 3-1 margin, with twice as many Republicans supporting the idea than opposing it.

I urge you, Mr. Speaker, do not just take my word for it. Take the word of the vast majority of the American people. Hundreds of mayors from all over America, every single former Federal Reserve Chair, 28 Nobel Prize-winning economists, Republican Members of Congress, and veterans of the Ronald Reagan administration. If that is not enough, take Elon Musk's word for it: Carbon pricing is ``the obvious move'' and worthy of consideration, not condemnation.

What has happened to the Republican Party? I urge a ``no'' vote.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an exemplary public servant, Wendy Motta, who has dedicated her career to serving the constituents of the 24th Congressional District with unwavering commitment and tireless effort. As we bid farewell to Wendy, we reflect on her distinguished service and the indelible mark she leaves on our community.

Wendy Motta's journey in public service spans decades, including previously serving in the office of my predecessor, Congresswoman Lois Capps. Throughout her tenure as Senior District Representative, Wendy demonstrated an exceptional ability to address the diverse needs of our constituents, tackling crucial issues ranging from agriculture and veterans' affairs to infrastructure and environmental stewardship. Her tireless efforts have made a lasting impact on the lives of those she helped.

One of Wendy's most remarkable contributions was her dedicated work in responding to natural disasters and emergencies. Her leadership during those challenging times provided solace and support to our community, showcasing her resilience and dedication to the well-being of the people she served. Wendy's proactive approach and swift response in times of crisis set a standard of excellence for public service in our district.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Wendy Motta is the epitome of a devoted family person. Married to Silvio Motta, she has been a loving partner and a source of strength for her family. Wendy and Silvio have been blessed with two wonderful children, Caio and Carina, who undoubtedly have been inspired

by their mother's commitment to public service.

Prior to her service with Congress, Wendy Motta served the California State Legislature in the 18th Senatorial District office. Her experience and expertise from the state level were instrumental in navigating the complexities of multi-jurisdictional issues and implementing effective policies for the benefit of our shared constituents on the Central Coast of California.

As we express our gratitude for Wendy's years of service, we also extend our best wishes for a fulfilling and joyous retirement. The 24th Congressional District has been fortunate to have such a dedicated advocate, and Wendy's legacy will undoubtedly endure as an inspiration for future generations of public servants.

In closing, I ask you to join me in acknowledging Wendy Motta's selfless contributions to the well-being of our community and express our deepest appreciation for her years of dedicated service. May her retirement be filled with the same warmth and kindness she has bestowed upon us throughout her illustrious career.

Mr. Speaker, on March 8, 2024, I missed votes in the House in order to attend funeral services for a family member. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 73, Rep. Houlahan Amendment; YEA on Roll Call No. 74 Rep. Tlaib Amendment; YEA on Roll Call No. 75, Rep. Lynch Amendment; YEA on Roll Call No. 76, Ranking Member Waters Amendment; YEA on Roll Call No. 77, Democratic Motion to Recommit, and NAY on Roll Call No. 78, H.R. 2799--Expanding Access to Capital Act.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight that last week, Congress came together to deliver full funding for WIC nutrition assistance.

Without this action, access to this critical program would have been put at risk for thousands of mothers, children, and families, including 1 million Californians.

As someone who knows the difference that Federal nutrition programs make in our communities, I was proud to see us reach a bipartisan solution to deliver funding needed to avoid a benefits cliff later this year.

WIC helps put food on the tables in central coast communities. It helps our children grow strong and do better in school. It helps expecting mothers by protecting their future children's development.

Every dollar we invest in WIC saves more than $2 in other expenses. That is a win-win.

I advocated for full funding of WIC, and I am proud to see this commonsense win for families signed into law.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to say thank you to the first responders on the central coast for whom it has been a busy and challenging few weeks.

Our hardworking emergency service workers in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura Counties have shown incredible bravery, commitment, and resilience during multiple heavy storms that have torn through the central coast.

Up and down our region, local fire crews and emergency management departments worked quickly and diligently to remove downed trees and power lines that fell on apartment buildings, homes, cars, and roadways.

In San Luis Obispo, the fire department fielded over 400 emergency calls during the storm's peak and helped rescue someone stranded in their car amid rising floodwaters in Nipomo.

In Santa Barbara, law enforcement officials knocked on more than 500 doors to alert households of a flooding evacuation order, and in Ventura, a man was rescued without injury from the Ventura River by the Ventura City Fire Department.

I thank our brave law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other first responders who, in the face of danger, run toward it. I also thank our emergency dispatchers who fielded so many calls and everyone at the National Weather Service who helped keep the central coast updated on the storms.

Our entire region is grateful to have them watching over our back.

Mr. Speaker, on this first day of December, I rise today to point out that the people's House went the entire month of November without passing a bill to tackle our Nation's housing crisis.

Communities on the California central coast are ranked as some of the most expensive places in our country to live in.

I was sent to this Chamber by my constituents to enact policies that will help lower these skyrocketing prices.

Congress needs to help increase the availability of affordable housing options. We need to reform and expand programs that provide housing assistance for working families and veterans like I have been pushing for. We need to invest in our communities for solutions that are helping those experiencing homelessness.

Mr. Speaker, there are bills we could pass today to lend a hand, including bipartisan ones that I have helped write.

By all means, let's keep pursuing baseless impeachment inquires or defunding the salaries of Cabinet members that we don't agree with.

Mr. Speaker, please, let's start governing.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask why.

Why are we, with hours to go before a government shutdown, wasting precious time debating bills that are so extreme, so backward, that they clearly have no chance of becoming law?

Why, this week, have we spent more time voting to defund individual salaries of public servants than passing a bill that would prevent millions from going unpaid?

Why are we focused on the baseless and bogus impeachment inquiry than the fact that if we do not prevent a shutdown, we will be asking members of our military, our law enforcement officers, our TSA agents, and our traffic controllers all to come to work to protect our Nation without a paycheck?

The livelihoods of thousands of families in my district are being put at risk, as well as the benefits of millions more--nutrition benefits, SBA loans, taxpayer assistance, and Social Security services.

Mr. Speaker, I ask why, but I also ask when. When will this Chamber get back to governing, get off this fantasy island of budgeting and actually govern?

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Aerospace Week. I am proud to Co-Chair the House Aerospace Caucus and to represent the robust aerospace industry on California's Central Coast, which ranges from civilian and military to airplanes and space launches.

The American aerospace industry has moved, connected, secured, and inspired the modem world with countless technologies that play a role in our daily lives. The aerospace industry has grown tremendously over the last 120 years going from the Wright brothers' first flight to deep space exploration.

Whether you are traveling by plane or using GPS to navigate--we all rely on the aerospace industry daily. Achievements in aerospace are some of humankind's most notable, including the moon landing and the first transatlantic flight. Success stories like these inspire the next generation who will continue to innovate and propel the American aerospace industry forward.

The United States has been a leader in aerospace since the beginning of the industry and this is only possible because of the American people's public investment and willingness to participate in this critical workforce. From air traffic controllers, airline gate agents, and pilots to engineers, technicians, and everyone else in between-- this diverse workforce allows the United States to maintain leadership.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to improve communications between large VA Medical Centers and Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs).

Earlier this week, I had a bipartisan amendment to the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill pass on the floor that encouraged the VA to do just that.

CBOCs exist to make it easier for veterans to access the healthcare they need in their community and remove the inconvenience of visiting a major VA Medical Center, which is sometimes hours away. Our veterans should not have to jump through hoops to schedule routine appointments in their community.

Too often however, I hear from my constituents that when they call their local CBOC to schedule an appointment or ask a question their call is routed to a major VA Medical Center, or they leave a message and never receive a return call.

The VA healthcare system needs to work for our veterans and ensure they have easy access to the care they are entitled to I strongly encourage the VA to come up with a plan to improve communications between Community Based Outreach Clinics and their major medical centers.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to denounce, yet again, the radical rightwing war on women, which is attacking fundamental rights and putting our military readiness at risk.

Before I came to Congress, I served our Nation in the United States Marine Corps. As a marine, I am appalled to see that for the first time in over 150 years marines are without a Senate-confirmed leader because of this misguided war on reproductive freedom, one of more than 200 confirmations being held up in the United States Senate.

I thoroughly condemn using these promotions as hostages and every single Member of Congress who is choosing to put their radical agenda over our national security, the same agenda that warped this year's NDAA with countless culture war amendments.

Our servicemembers give their lives to protect our country. We owe it to them to protect their basic rights to privacy and healthcare.

For the sake of our servicemembers and for women across America, I urge my colleagues to drop reckless precedent-setting blockade.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and celebrate Kevin Klinkenberg for his service to the New Democrat Coalition. Kevin has been an incredible and integral member of the New Dem team, and we thank him for his 2 years of service.

In my capacity as New Dem Vice Chair of Outreach, I have had the sincere pleasure of working closely with Kevin to strengthen our Coalition's outreach efforts to key stakeholder groups. From relationships with labor organizations to the business community, Kevin has undoubtedly strengthened the New Dem brand through his ability to convene diverse groups and facilitate important dialogues.

Throughout my tenure as Vice Chair, I have had the privilege to observe Kevin's dedication and remarkable work ethic firsthand. I can say with certainty that the Coalition's success would not be possible without Kevin's contributions.

As Kevin departs to join the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as a Senior Advisor and Congressional Liaison, New Dems can be sure he will continue to demonstrate the qualities that made him such an integral member of our team. I wish him well, and I look forward to witnessing all the incredible work he will accomplish throughout his career.

Mr. Speaker, one year ago tomorrow, the Supreme Court overturned a half century of precedent by ending the nationwide guarantee that women be allowed to make choices over their bodies.

Since then, we have seen the devastating result: Numerous States enacting bans that deny a woman's ability to make decisions over her body, oftentimes without any exception.

In the face of this new wave of attacks on reproductive freedom, I have fought with many of my colleagues to preserve access to abortions and to restore a nationwide right to abortion access.

House Democrats produced and passed legislation to ensure women can travel safely and freely to States in which abortion is still legal, have access to contraception, and cover abortions regardless of income or health status.

We will not stop there.

We will continue to push for legislation that will once again allow women everywhere in America to be in charge of their own health decisions.