This week, the House of Representatives passed my bill to authorize seven permit renewals to ensure the Kaweah Hydroelectric Project in Tulare County can continue operations. These dams are a critical source of clean, reliable, and affordable energy for California, and these permit renewals are the key to keeping them running. Without authorization, CA-22 ratepayers would see a dramatic increase in their energy costs and would be left to foot the bill for dismantling much-needed infrastructure. This is an issue that’s been a priority throughout my time in Congress, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to get this bill across the finish line. 

It’s past time for Congress to pass reasonable immigration reform that restores law and order while recognizing the contributions of undocumented immigrants who have built their lives here. That's why I was proud to join a bipartisan delegation to introduce the Dignity Act of 2025. This bill creates the Dignity Program, which offers a 7-year temporary legal status for undocumented immigrants who have been in the United States for 5 years or more and can meet certain other requirements, like being able to pass a background check.

To be clear, this is not amnesty for undocumented immigrants. Anyone who participates in the Dignity Program will need to pay a yearly fine which will be used to fund a training program for American workers—offering grants for apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and higher education. This bill reaffirms that while we’re a nation of laws, but we’re also a nation of second chances. In the Valley, there are many people who have lived and worked peacefully for years, and they deserve a fair opportunity to earn legal status. The Dignity Act is a bipartisan step toward fixing our broken immigration system and delivering the reforms our communities need, and I’m proud to join my colleagues in support. 

This week, I met with Amy Orosco, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the Native Star Foundation in Porterville. Her program plays a key role in our community by providing our youth opportunities to participate in mentorship programs, community events, skills training, and anti-drug programming. I look forward to our continued partnership and working toward our shared goal of making sure the next generation reaches their fullest potential.

Serving California’s 22nd District is an honor, and I always look forward to meeting constituents from the Central Valley. This week, I welcomed constituents from Hanford and had a great time giving them a tour of our nation’s capital. If you or someone you know is planning to visit Washington, D.C., please reach out to my office directly to schedule a tour by calling 202-225-4695, or by making a request through our website here. We look forward to hosting you during your visit!

On Tuesday, I joined Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) on a panel for Center Forward's 2025 Agriculture Summit. As the only dairy farmer in Congress, it was a great opportunity to discuss America's farm labor economy and the importance of a reliable workforce. One of the biggest challenges our producers face is difficulty finding farmworkers, and the current H-2A program unfortunately isn't meeting the current labor needs. Food security is national security, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to find long-term solutions that support our agricultural industry.

Over this past weekend, Team Valadao attended the Boys and Girls Club Summer Jobs Program Graduation Dinner to celebrate thirty-two summer interns who completed their internships—including workforce and professional development activities in collaboration with local businesses. Later, my staff presented a certificate to the chair of the Kern County Young Farmers and Ranchers at the 10th Annual Charity Farmers Market, where visitors got to enjoy fresh produce from local producers.

On Monday, Team Valadao attended a meeting to discuss a Bakersfield Veterans Symposium—an event to spread awareness for available veterans support and benefits. On Tuesday, they went to the Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce's "State of the City" address and heard about their plans to improve public safety, increase housing, and build more retail centers. Also in Bakersfield, my staff attended the Kern County Board of Supervisors meeting. Later, they went to the Shafter City Council meeting to present a certificate to Sgt. Phillip Yoshikawa in recognition of his 27 years at the Shafter Police Department. 

On Wednesday, Team Valadao attended a graduation event held by the City of Bakersfield for students who have overcome adversity. They also met with CSU Bakersfield’s Small Business Development Center to learn about the services and programs they have to help our local businesses. Later, they spoke with the Kaweah Delta Water Conservation District about ensuring reliable and adequate water supplies. Team Valadao also presented a Congressional Record Statement to Michelle Nuckols, the Tulare County Cattlewoman of the Year.

Later in the week, my team joined the Tulare Chamber of Commerce for a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating their new solar upgrade for Evolutions Fitness and Wellness Center. They also met with the Director of the Tulare Family Resource Center—a facility that offers services ranging from nutrition, health and education to housing, utility assistance and employment training. Later, my staff spoke with the Tulare County Cooperative Extension. To finish the day, Team Valadao attended the ribbon cutting for the Tulare Real Estate Team to meet the team and learn more about their services. 

Trying to get an answer from a federal agency can often be a time-consuming and frustrating process. If you ever need help navigating a federal agency, you can visit my website or call my Hanford office at (559) 460-6070. My team is ready to assist you!

Tratar de obtener una respuesta de una agencia federal a menudo puede ser un proceso frustrante y que requiere mucho tiempo. Si alguna vez necesita ayuda con una agencia federal, puede visitar mi sitio de web aquí o llamar a mi oficina de Hanford al (559) 460-6070. ¡Mi equipo está listo para ayudarte!

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