Mark is Recognized as a National Education Leader by the National PTA
Dear Contra Costa Residents:
As we begin another busy week in Contra Costa and in Washington, DC, below is a snapshot of our work over the past week.
We also will be hosting a joint town hall in Antioch with Congressman Jerry McNerney next Tuesday, March 27th. During the town hall, attendees will have the opportunity to listen to a legislative update and to ask questions on issues of importance. To confirm your attendance, please RSVP here.
Antioch Town Hall with Congressman McNerney (CA-09)
Tuesday, March 27, 2018
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Dallas Ranch Middle School
1401 Mt. Hamilton Drive
Antioch, CA 94531
Doors Open at 6:00 p.m.
RECENT KEY VOTES
Student, Teachers, and Officers Preventing (STOP) School Violence Act (H.R. 4909)
On the same day that students across the country walked out of their schools to demand legislative action to reduce gun violence, the House of Representatives passed a bill to help make schools safer. Specifically, the bill provides funding for training of school personnel and for physical improvements like metal detectors and emergency notification systems. As a sponsor of the legislation, I supported the bill, which passed by a vote of 407-10.
Efforts to Roll Back Consumer Financial Protections
The House voted on three bills that put the interests of financial institutions before those of everyday Americans. The TAILOR Act (H.R. 1116) makes the federal oversight of financial institutions more difficult by requiring unnecessary, additional reviews of regulations. The Financial Institutions Examination Fairness and Reform Act (H.R. 4545) makes it harder for federal regulators to implement disciplinary or corrective actions against banks. The Regulation A+ Improvement Act (H.R. 4263) allows more companies to sell stock to the public with limited disclosure requirements. I voted against these bills. We must continue to learn from the 2008 financial crisis and maintain proper regulatory oversight of the financial services sector to protect Americans from the risks of another crisis.
MARK'S LEGISLATIVE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Awarded the PTA's 2018 Congressional Voice for Children Award
I was deeply honored to be recognized as a national education leader by the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and awarded the 2018 Congressional Voice for Children Award for our commitment to improving education and outcomes for students. This bipartisan, bicameral award is given to only two Members of Congress each year. I look forward to continuing to work with the dedicated members of the PTA in California and around the country to support teachers, improve our schools, and prioritize student success.
To learn more about the award, click here.
To watch a video recorded by students at Meadow Homes Elementary School in Concord, click the image below.
MARK AROUND TOWN
Cancer Survivors Caucus Meeting with National Cancer Institute Director Dr. Ned Sharpless
We were honored to host National Cancer Institute Director Dr. Ned Sharpless at a roundtable discussion as part of our bipartisan Cancer Survivors Caucus. During the meeting we discussed the importance of cancer research, the progress we have made, and the innovative methods we are using to find a cure.
Speaking at the Association of Community Cancer Centers Luncheon
I was glad to speak with members of the Association of Community Cancer Centers (ACCC) during their advocacy day on Capitol Hill about ways to coordinate cancer care and my efforts to help improve doctor-patient communication. Each day ACCC members support patients undergoing treatment by working to provide access to care.
Speaking at Annual Young Children's Issues Forum
Quality early childhood education helps set young students on the path toward success both in and out of the classroom. I was glad to join the Contra Costa County Office of Education for an engaging discussion on early education and care, the challenges we face, and the solutions that will help East Bay students thrive.
OPINIONS FROM THE DISTRICT
Hearing directly from you not only informs my work in Congress, but also is my favorite part of being your Representative. To share your opinions with me you can either email me or take our survey.
Below are some of the top issues you shared with me over the last week:
- 128 constituents called for the upcoming spending bill to be free from anti-environment provisions.
- 101 constituents advocated for the International Violence Against Women Act (IVAWA), which I am proud to support.
LEGISLATION MARK RECENTLY SUPPORTED
Korean War Combat Veterans Congressional Gold Medal Act (H.R. 5222) – supports honoring combat veterans of the Korean War with the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of their dedication to service.
LETTERS MARK RECENTLY SENT
Letter to the Department of Homeland Security and State Department to renew Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for citizens of Nepal currently in the U.S.
MARK'S RECENT STATEMENTS
National Walk Out Day
This past week, students in Contra Costa County and around the country demonstrated their passion and commitment to bring about action to curb gun violence in America by participating in National Walk Out Day. Click the image below to watch my message to the students.