The DeSaulnier Digest: House Passes Crucial Funding for Ukraine
AT A GLANCE
In this week's Digest you will find more information on:
- Earth Day events around CA-10;
- Updates on key legislation including aid to Ukraine; and
- Congressman DeSaulnier's remarks on the closure of FCI Dublin.
IN THE DISTRICT
CA-10 Celebrates Earth Day
Our office joined in Earth Day events in Martinez, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, and Dublin to raise awareness and help protect our planet. Everyone who came learned more about local sustainability programs and celebrated with community members.
ON THE HOUSE FLOOR
DeSaulnier Supports Overdue Aid to Ukraine, Questions Unconditional Aid to Israel
Congressman DeSaulnier joined with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote for $60 billion in military assistance for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s invasion. After more than a year of obstruction from House Republicans, this long overdue funding will be critical to ensuring Ukraine can defeat Vladimir Putin and preserve its democracy. With the Congressman’s support, this bill (H.R. 8035) passed by a vote of 311-to-112. The House also passed additional funding for offensive weapons for Israel. Given the Netanyahu government’s continued attacks on civilians in Gaza, Congressman DeSaulnier opposed providing more offensive weapons or funding without conditions. He remains committed to Israel’s democracy, the release of all Israeli hostages captured on October 7th, and working toward a lasting peace. The bill with this funding (H.R. 8034) passed by a vote of 366-to-58. Both of these bills, and others that House Republicans will package with them, must now be considered by the U.S. Senate.
House Passes Bill to Expand Protections for Americans' Personal Data with DeSaulnier's Support
For years, federal agencies have been circumventing privacy laws by buying Americans’ personal data from data brokers. Rather than going to a court to obtain a search warrant, agencies like the IRS and the FBI have instead been collecting individuals’ personal data, like location information and internet records, by purchasing it from large companies. On April 12th, Congressman DeSaulnier voted against a bill that would renew warrantless government surveillance (H.R. 7888), and last week he voted for a separate bill (H.R. 4639) that would expand data privacy protections. H.R. 4639 passed the House by a vote of 219-to-199.
IN THE NEWS
Congressman DeSaulnier Speaks with ABC7 Regarding Closure of FCI Dublin
Following the announcement about the closure of FCI Dublin, DeSaulnier joined ABC7 to discuss the need for increased federal oversight of the prison system and the importance of protecting inmates as they are transferred to other facilities. To learn more, click here or on the image below:
Mark Continues Efforts to Promote Safety at Local Refineries
Congressman DeSaulnier has a long history of work in the Bay Area to reduce safety incidents at refineries. Tune in to his recent interview with NBC Bay Area to learn more about action he is taking to help ensure PBF Energy’s Martinez refinery prioritizes the safety of its workers and our community by clicking here or on the image below.
IN COMMITTEE
DeSaulnier Discusses Need to Strengthen Consumer Protections for Health Insurance Plans
Since becoming law in 1974, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) has served as the primary federal law governing pensions and health insurance plans provided by employers. While ERISA contains important consumer protections, there are some gaps in the law that could be closed in order to further strengthen employee benefits. At a recent hearing of the Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee at the Committee on Education and the Workforce, DeSaulnier in his role as the top Democrat on the Subcommittee highlighted the need to improve access to mental and behavioral health care and improve oversight of insurance plans so that employees receive the benefits they have earned. To hear more, click here or on the image below.
Congressman DeSaulnier Highlights the Importance of Modernizing Public Transit
During a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing, Congressman DeSaulnier discussed how there is opportunity in the Bay Area and across the country, following increased adoption of remote work and flexible work schedules, to adjust transit options to meet shifting rider demands. Congressman DeSaulnier also highlighted the importance of linking land use, transportation, and growing density to improve quality of life for transit riders and commuters. To see the Congressman's remarks, click here or on the image below.
DC MEETINGS
DeSaulnier Meets with Army Corps of Engineers
Mark sat down with the San Francisco District Leadership of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to discuss their ongoing infrastructure projects in the Bay Area, including their work to create climate resilient communities.
POST OF THE WEEK
BY THE NUMBERS
