Valadao, David RSS Articles

Congressman Valadao Hosts USDA/FSA Roundtable with Central Valley Producers in Tulare

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22), alongside Farm Service Agency Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs Jared Hagert, California State Farm Service Agency Executive Director Connie Conway, and U.S. Department of Agriculture California State Director for Rural Development Bryan Anguiano, hosted a roundtable discussion with farmers from across the Central Valley.

The roundtable conversation was focused on challenges our producers are facing, the need for a robust farm safety net, and critical USDA and FSA programs.

“Agriculture is the backbone of the Central Valley’s economy, and it’s important that our farmers have a seat at the table when decisions are made that affect their operations,” said Congressman Valadao. “That’s why I really appreciated the opportunity to bring together producers from across the Valley and USDA and California FSA leadership to discuss agriculture challenges, disaster preparedness heading into next year, and how we can better address the needs of local farmers. As the sole dairyman in Congress, I understand the uncertainty producers face, and I’ll continue working with our agricultural community and federal partners to ensure our farmers have the support they need to keep producing the food that feeds our nation.”

"Today’s forum with Representative Valadao and producers in the Central Valley was a valuable opportunity to hear concerns of producers and visit with them about the improvements to programs that the Farm Service Agency (FSA) is implementing,” said Jared Hagert, Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs at the Farm Service Agency.

"Today’s roundtable was a great opportunity to hear directly from the people who make the Central Valley a powerhouse for agriculture. These conversations help us understand what’s working, where we can improve, and how USDA can keep supporting the growth happening across this region. USDA appreciates Congressman Valadao’s leadership and being a strong voice for agricultural producers,” said Connie Conway, FSA Executive Director.

“USDA is committed to ensuring rural communities have the infrastructure, resources, and opportunities they need to prosper. Roundtables like today’s give us a clear understanding of local priorities, helping us shape investment priorities that strengthen the regional economy and improve quality of life for families across the Central Valley,” said Bryan Anguiano, Rural Development State Director.

Click here for photos from the roundtable.

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President Signs Congressman Valadao’s Romance Scam Prevention Act into Law

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Yesterday, President Trump signed Congressman David Valadao's (CA-22) Romance Scam Prevention Act into law. This bipartisan bill will require dating apps and services to issue fraud ban notifications to users who have interacted with a person removed from the app for fraudulent activity.

Reps. Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Craig Goldman (TX-12), and Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) co-led the introduction of the bill in the House. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) introduced the companion bill in the Senate.

“I’m extremely proud to see my bill, the Romance Scam Prevention Act, signed into law,” said Congressman Valadao. “Millions of Americans use online dating platforms to find meaningful relationships, making these platforms a target for scammers looking to exploit unsuspecting victims and take advantage of them financially. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation is an important step toward strengthening protections against online scams, and I’m grateful to everyone who worked to get this bill across the finish line and help keep Americans safe online.”

“As technology changes faster than ever, criminals are finding new ways to use it to exploit Americans,” said Congressman Suozzi. “Dating apps have become a new frontier for scammers looking to manipulate people and steal their money. Congress must keep up. This commonsense law ensures users know when anyone they’ve interacted with on a dating app has been removed for fraudulent activity, giving them the information they need to protect themselves. I’m proud that Republicans and Democrats in both the House and the Senate, and the President of the United States, came together to get this done.”

"Romance scammers stole almost $1.5 billion from innocent Americans in 2025 alone, turning online dating platforms into a tool for fraud,” said Congressman Goldman. “I’m proud to co-lead Rep. Valadao’s bipartisan Romance Scam Prevention Act, which has now passed both the House and Senate. By requiring online dating sites to alert users when they’ve interacted with someone removed for fraud, this bill helps stop scammers before they can steal another American’s hard-earned money.”

“Scammers prey on Americans looking for companionship, exploiting their trust and, in too many cases, stealing their life savings,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Romance Scam Prevention Act will put critical safeguards in place to protect all dating app users – but especially senior citizens – from fraudulent schemes. I am pleased to see President Trump sign this important legislation into law and take action to protect Americans from romance scams.”

“People turn to dating apps looking for love and connection, not to get scammed,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “Our bill puts real safeguards in place that will protect all dating app users, especially senior citizens, from harmful, fraudulent schemes. We’re glad to see our safeguards become law.”

Background:

Over 60 million Americans used an online dating service in 2023, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that romance scams resulted in victims losing over $1.1 billion. Criminals use false names and stories to lure individuals into conversation before manipulating them to give up sensitive information. When an online dating service provider becomes aware of a user committing fraudulent activity, like illegally obtaining money, the online dating service provider immediately deactivates the fraudulent user’s account. However, individuals who meet online often take their conversations to other communication platforms, so even when a fraudulent account is removed, an individual might not know they are still communicating with someone who was banned from the platform.

Read the full bill here.

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Congressman Valadao Supports Legislation to Reinvest Federal Funds Back Into State Medicaid Programs

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) supported the Helping Encourage Lawful Payments and Strengthen Transparency, Anti-fraud, Tips, and Enforcement Strategies (HELP STATES) Act by joining as an original co-sponsor. This bill would allow states to retain a larger share of the federal portion of Medicaid overpayments recovered from fraud and require those dollars to be reinvested in state efforts to prevent, detect, and combat fraud, strengthening the program for the future.

This bill was introduced by Reps. Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07), Rob Wittman (VA-01), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Young Kim (CA-40), and Rob Bresnahan (PA-08) and is part of a larger package of 14 bills to incentivize federally-funded health program fraud-fighting efforts.

“Medicaid provides critical support to families across the Central Valley, and it’s important we do everything we can to ensure funds are properly distributed,” said Congressman Valadao. “I’m proud to support the HELP STATES Act, which would give states a greater incentive to crack down on fraud, reinvest recovered funds into preventing future abuse, and ensure benefits reach the people they’re intended to help."

Background:

Under current law, when a state recovers an improper Medicaid payment due to fraud, it usually must return the federal government’s share of that recovery. The HELP STATES Act would allow a state to retain up to 25% of the federal share of a qualifying fraud recovery. These funds would be used by states to support Medicaid program-integrity activities aimed at preventing, identifying, and recovering fraudulent payments.

Read the bill here.

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Congressman Valadao Urges Administration to Protect Critical Central Valley Head Start Programs

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Last week, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Administration for Children and Families (ACF) Assistant Secretary Alex J. Adams regarding the recent Head Start Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM). In his letter, he urged the administration to ensure that the final rule upholds current Head Start performance standards and gives fair consideration to public comments submitted by programs in CA-22.

On August 7, 2026, HHS and ACF proposed a federal rule that would make significant changes to how Head Start programs operate in the Central Valley. This includes removing the nationwide Head Start standards, requiring English-only learning in classrooms, lowering the cap on federal funding for administrative expenses, and changing the staff-to-child classroom ratios in order to create more program flexibility, reduce red-tape, and ensure local and state decision-making. Despite these goals, the NPRM falls short of maintaining the program standards that have been central to Head Start’s success.

“The proposed rulemaking would fundamentally reshape the nationwide Head Start program by eliminating performance standards that have been central to its success for decades. While the administration describes the proposal as an effort to modernize the program and provide greater flexibility to state and local leaders, it also creates significant uncertainty for the communities and families that rely on Head Start,” wrote Congressman Valadao. “Removing the performance standards would shift administrative burden onto already strained programs, requiring them to navigate a complex set of state and local regulations. Providers are concerned that removing clear performance standards could leave key requirements open to subjective interpretation, making it more difficult for programs to understand and meet federal expectations, potentially putting longstanding Head Start grants at risk.”

While the proposed rule does have a process for programs seeking exemptions from certain requirements like the English-only provision and the administrative cost cap, there is no clear timeline for agency review and decision-making on waiver requests. This lack of clarity would force Head Start providers to operate with uncertainty for an unspecified amount of time while the federal government makes decisions that directly affect their ability to continue operations. In the letter, Congressman Valadao expressed support for modernizing the Head Start program to strengthen outcomes for children and parents.

Congressman Valadao has been a strong supporter of Head Start throughout his time in Congress. He has visited several classrooms to see firsthand how the program invests in the success of Central Valley families and has consistently advocated for increased funding to support its work.

Read the full letter here.

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Congressman Valadao Introduces Legislation to Recognize Armenia for Hosting the Convention on Biological Diversity

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – This week, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) and Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) introduced a bipartisan resolution commending Armenia for hosting the seventeenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations (U.N.) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP17). This gathering in Yerevan, Armenia provides an important opportunity for nations around the world to come together and discuss the environmental challenges facing our planet.

The resolution also recognizes the United States’ leadership in advancing agroforestry and conservation research around the globe through our universities, nonprofit organizations, agricultural producers, and scientists. Additionally, it highlights Armenia’s efforts to plant nearly 10 million trees and celebrates the strong cooperation between the United States and Armenia on conservation and environmental stewardship.

“As co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution recognizing Armenia’s strong commitment to conservation and environmental stewardship,” said Congressman Valadao. “COP17 provides an important opportunity for leaders around the world to come together to address critical environmental challenges, and I commend Armenia for taking a leading role in this important conversation while strengthening the enduring partnership between our two nations.”

“Armenia holds a special place in my heart, and I have been proud to stand with the Armenian people throughout my time in Congress,” said Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. “Hosting COP17 gives Armenia a great opportunity to show the world the beauty of the country they have fought so hard to preserve. As nations come together in Yerevan to confront the loss of biodiversity and find better ways to protect our natural resources, Armenia will be at the center of that important work. I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan resolution celebrating this moment and ensuring Armenia can protect its natural heritage for generations to come.”

"Conservation is not independent of security or sovereignty," said Armenia Tree Project Founder Carolyn Mugar. "By welcoming Armenia as host of COP17 and affirming U.S.-Armenia cooperation on forestry, water management, and wildfire prevention, this resolution treats Armenia's forests as the strategic national asset that they are. We thank the leadership of the Congressional Armenian Caucus for this important legislative initiative."

Read the resolution here.

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Valadao, Fong Welcome VA Secretary Collins to Bakersfield for New Clinic Announcement

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

BAKERSFIELD – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) and Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) hosted Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins in Bakersfield to announce the new, modernized Bakersfield VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic. This new clinic will replace the existing decades-old clinic in Bakersfield which is unable to meet increased patient demand and support existing services.

As a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, Congressman Valadao has secured language in the Fiscal Year 2022, 2024, 2025, 2026, and 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Acts encouraging VA to move forward with construction.

“Our veterans have sacrificed so much to protect our nation and preserve our freedoms, and when they come home, they deserve access to high-quality VA healthcare in their communities,” said Congressman Valadao. “For over thirty years, the existing Bakersfield clinic has served thousands of veterans across our region, but that facility is aging, patient demand has only grown, and it doesn’t have the space or resources needed to meet our veterans’ needs. The new, modernized Bakersfield VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic will better meet demand and expand access to essential services, including primary care, mental health, dental, rehabilitation, and other specialty services. This is an important investment in the health and well-being of our Central Valley veterans, and I want to thank Secretary Collins, the administration, and Congressman Fong for their continued partnership in making this project a reality. I look forward to seeing our Valley veterans benefit from this new facility soon!”

“Today is a significant step forward for the veterans of Kern County and it has been a long time coming,” said Congressman Fong. “After years of frivolous legal delays, the VA has accepted this new modernized clinic, with a target to welcome its first patients this December. Our veterans will finally be receiving care in a modern space worthy of their service, but we are not done. Today allows us to build and construct the permanent facility our veterans were promised, and I will not stop until that job is finished. Thank you to Secretary Doug Collins and the entire Trump Administration for making this a priority and delivering for the veterans of the Central Valley.”

“For too long, Bakersfield Veterans had to make do with a clinic that suffered from HVAC and plumbing problems, and didn’t have enough space to meet Veterans’ growing needs,” said VA Secretary Doug Collins. “Under President Trump’s leadership, and thanks to the advocacy of Reps. Valadao and Fong, Veterans will get the modern facility they deserve. The new clinic also enables VA to exit a horrible lease agreement that was costing us millions of additional dollars per year for a sub-standard facility – that means we can direct more resources to Veteran care.”

Background:

The new, modernized Bakersfield VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic will replace the existing decades-old facility, which has struggled to keep pace with growing patient demand and provide the space needed to expand services. After years of delays related to site availability and legal challenges, the project is moving forward following a July 2025 court ruling in favor of the City of Bakersfield.

The approximately 30,000-square-foot facility will offer a full slate of expanded care options, including primary care, audiology and speech pathology, mental health, homeless services, dental, eye care, enrollment and eligibility, laboratory services, nutrition and food services, physical medicine and rehabilitation, telehealth, and women’s health. Veterans will continue receiving care from their existing providers, with the new facility providing additional space to meet their needs. The new clinic will also allow the VA to redirect funding previously spent on the outdated facility’s rent toward serving veterans.

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Congressman Valadao Releases Statement on Immigration and Customs Enforcement Operations in the Central Valley

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) released the following statement regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement Operations in the Central Valley:

"I’ve been in contact with the Department of Homeland Security regarding recent immigration enforcement actions in the Central Valley, and they've informed my office that these operations are focused on individuals with active warrants and known criminal histories," said Congressman Valadao. "I understand the concerns these operations have raised among families in our communities. Hardworking farmworkers who are simply going to work, providing for their families, and contributing to our agricultural economy should not have to live in fear."

Valadao continues, "These situations highlight why Congress must address our broken immigration system. Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve supported commonsense solutions that secure our border, uphold the rule of law, and recognize the contributions of hardworking immigrants. That includes creating an earned pathway to legal status for individuals who have established roots in our communities and contributed to our economy, while ensuring those who pose a threat to public safety are held accountable."

“I'll continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance meaningful immigration reform, but in the meantime, my office remains available to assist Central Valley residents navigating issues with federal immigration agencies. I encourage constituents who need help with their immigration cases to contact my office."

Valadao, Bipartisan Colleagues Reintroduce Resolution Recognizing National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – This week, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Reps. Jim Costa (CA-21), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), John Larson (CT-01), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), and Paul Tonko (NY-20) to reintroduce a bipartisan resolution designating October 8, 2026, as National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day. National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day is observed annually on October 8 in recognition of hydrogen’s atomic mass of 1.008. Today highlights the role hydrogen and fuel cell technologies play in energy production, transportation, grid reliability, and economic growth right here in the Central Valley and across the nation.

"I’m proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing a bipartisan resolution designating October 8th as National Hydrogen Fuel Cell Day,” said Congressman Valadao. “Advancing these technologies is critical to strengthening our nation’s energy independence, driving continued innovation, and enhancing our energy security. An all-of-the-above energy strategy will help lower energy costs for Central Valley communities while ensuring our farms, businesses, and homes have access to the reliable energy they need to thrive.”

"Hydrogen and fuel cell technologies are an important part of America’s energy future,” said Congressman Costa. "By investing in American innovation, we can strengthen our energy security, build a more reliable and resilient grid, create good-paying jobs, and reduce emissions. The United States has long been a leader in developing these technologies, and this bipartisan resolution recognizes the work being done across the country to ensure we continue leading the way."

"The question is not whether America will need more energy—it is whether we will lead in producing it. Hydrogen and fuel cell technologies can strengthen our energy security, reinforce the reliability and resilience of our grid, create good-paying American jobs, and help meet growing demand through cleaner, innovative solutions. National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day recognizes the incredible scientists, engineers, manufacturers, and workers driving that progress, and reaffirms our bipartisan commitment to ensuring America continues to lead the world in energy innovation," said Congressman Fitzpatrick.

"Connecticut continues to lead the nation as a hub for the research and development of clean hydrogen and fuel cell technologies," said Congressman Larson. "For years, I have worked across the aisle to enact tax incentives to boost hydrogen production and invest federal funding to grow our fuel cell economy, unleash the power of American-made clean energy, and reduce emissions. As we recognize the twelfth annual National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day, we must work together on real solutions to lower costs for consumers and grow the clean energy supply chain across the country."

"Supporting clean hydrogen unlocks a wealth of benefits — boosting our economy, protecting energy security, and reducing emissions," said Congressman Tonko. "Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve worked to advance legislation that invests in energy innovation and lowers costs, which is why I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce this bipartisan resolution and support a stronger, healthier, more competitive nation."

"Congress has long recognized how hydrogen seamlessly fits into so many of the energy tools in America’s energy portfolio," said Frank Wolak, President and CEO of FCHEA. "Whether a feedstock for low-carbon fertilizer and export fuels such as ammonia or used directly as a fuel on its own to power data centers, heavy-duty trucks, and everything in between, hydrogen helps the U.S. meet growing power demand at home while sustaining leadership in energy markets abroad. We thank Representative Costa and the resolution’s co-sponsors for supporting Hydrogen Day and the U.S. industry at large."

Read the resolution here.

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Congressman Valadao Secures Federal Funding for Friant-Kern Canal, Attends Groundbreaking for Phase I Pump Station Replacement Project

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

PORTERVILLE – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) attended the Friant Water Authority’s groundbreaking ceremony for the Friant-Kern Canal Phase I Pump Station Replacement Project. Phase 1 is the first of two phases that will result in the repair and replacement of a portion of the canal where land subsidence has caused significant capacity constraints. The completion of this project will improve operational reliability and strengthen the long-term resilience of the canal, helping deliver critical water resources across the Central Valley.

Earlier this year, Congressman Valadao secured $540 million through the Working Families Tax Cut Act to support critical storage and conveyance projects across the state—the most significant water investment California has ever seen. Of that funding, $200 million was specifically set aside for the Friant-Kern Canal.

“As a dairy farmer, I understand water isn’t just another issue for the Central Valley—it’s our way of life,” said Congressman Valadao. “Reliable water infrastructure supports the food we grow, the jobs we create, and the future we’re building together. That’s why I was proud to secure $200 million in federal funding for the Friant-Kern Canal to make these much-needed repairs which will improve water delivery reliability, maintain capacity, and strengthen resiliency for years to come. I want to thank the Friant Water Authority, Bureau of Reclamation, and our federal, state, and local leaders for their hard work to make this project possible. I look forward to continuing our partnership to ensure the Central Valley has the water resources needed to support our farms, families, and communities.”

“Today, we are breaking ground on a significant investment that will help keep water flowing to the farms, families and communities that power the Central Valley. The Friant-Kern Canal is a vital part of California’s water delivery system for our communities and farms, and replacing these aging pump stations is critical to making sure water gets where it needs to go. Alongside Congressman Valadao, we fought to secure $540 million for California water projects—including $200 million directly for the Friant-Kern Canal. This is an incredible win for the San Joaquin Valley as we build the infrastructure we need today to secure our water supply for generations to come," said Rep. Vince Fong.

“The Valley faces many challenges, including water supply certainty and land subsidence that impacts water reliability. Today is about taking action to restore the Friant-Kern Canal and protect a water system that is critical to the Central Valley. We’re grateful to President Trump and Congressmen David Valadao and Vince Fong for their continued support and commitment to securing the investments needed to strengthen this critical water infrastructure,” said Johnny Amaral, CEO, Friant Water Authority.

Click here for photos from the event.

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Congressman Valadao Reintroduces Legislation to Improve Financial Literacy Education

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) and Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) reintroduced the Promoting Financial Literacy in Secondary Schools Act. This bipartisan bill would help improve financial literacy education and allow classes to be more widely available to high school students.

“Filing taxes, managing a budget, building savings, and understanding credit are all important life skills, yet too many students graduate high school without the financial knowledge they need to make informed decisions,” said Congressman Valadao. “Instead of trying to navigate a complicated financial system on their own, students should have a strong foundation in financial literacy. The bipartisan Promoting Financial Literacy in Secondary School Act would give students these critical tools before they graduate and help prepare the next generation for success—whether they choose to attend college, pursue a trade, or enter the workforce."

“I know how hard it can be to navigate our financial system, especially for people like me who were the first in their family to graduate from high school and college. Too many young people enter adulthood without anyone ever teaching them how to build credit, manage a budget, or protect themselves from financial decisions that could follow them for years, said Congresswoman Pettersen. "Every one of our students should have access to the resources they need to make informed financial decisions, regardless of the path they take after high school. I’m so proud to join Congressman Valadao to introduce this commonsense, bipartisan bill that will help high schools better prepare our young people to achieve financial security, avoid costly mistakes, and set themselves up for success in the long run.”

Background:

The Financial Literacy and Education Commission (FLEC) within the U.S. Department of the Treasury is tasked with creating best practices for teaching financial literacy. Currently, FLEC only creates guidance for institutions of higher education. As more students continue to seek alternatives to college, they are missing out on these foundational financial literacy programs. This legislation would require FLEC to include high schools when creating their best practices for students about budgeting, financial securities, credit, evaluating financial products, and student loan borrowing. Nothing in this bill requires schools to adopt the best practices created under this bill.

Read the bill here.

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