Valadao, David RSS Articles

Congressman Valadao Hosts Launch Event for Bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Yesterday, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) hosted the launch of the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus alongside caucus co-chairs Reps. Troy Carter (LA-02), Laurel Lee (FL-15), and Lucy McBath (GA-06), as well as founding members Reps. Vince Fong (CA-20) and John McGuire III (VA-05).

“Human trafficking is a complex and deeply troubling issue, and the launch event for the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus brought together lawmakers, advocates, survivors, and industry leaders committed to confronting this crisis head-on,” said Congressman Valadao. “Hearing directly from those on the front lines reinforces the urgent need for stronger coordination, greater awareness, and federal policy that reflects the reality in our communities. This caucus will serve as a critical platform to elevate those voices, and I look forward to working together to prevent exploitation, prosecute traffickers, and protect survivors.”

Attendees included representatives from the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), U.S. Chamber of Commerce, American Gaming Association (AGA), Protect All Children from Trafficking (PACT), Kids in Need of Defense (KIND), 3Strands Foundation, Interparliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking, International Justice Mission, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Woodmont Lodging, Hyatt, Hilton, Donohoe Hospitality Services, Rights4Girls, JLL, Xenia Hotels, PM Hotels, and My Place Hotels.

Click here for photos from the event.

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Congressman Valadao Announces House Committee on Agriculture Appointment

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) released the following statement after he was appointed to serve on the House Committee on Agriculture.

“I’m honored Chairman Thompson has entrusted me with the responsibility of serving on the House Committee on Agriculture,” said Congressman Valadao. “As a dairy farmer, I understand firsthand the challenges our farmers, ranchers, and growers face, from rising input costs and labor shortages to unfair trade practices and the need for a strong agricultural safety net. I look forward to building on Congressman Doug LaMalfa's work to support our producers and strengthen American agriculture. Agriculture is at the heart of the Central Valley and a critical part of our nation's economy, and I'm ready to get to work on delivering results for the families and communities who depend on it."

"On behalf of the House Committee on Agriculture, I would like to extend a warm welcome to Rep. Valadao,” said Chairman Thompson. “As a producer who understands the ins and outs of a family operation, Mr. Valadao appreciates the opportunities and challenges facing farm country, and this is reflected in how deeply he cares about his community and the greater agricultural industry. I can think of no one better suited to carry on Doug LaMalfa’s legacy of being a true advocate for California agriculture. While a new addition to the agriculture committee, Rep. Valadao is no stranger to supporting our farm families in the halls of Congress. I look forward to seeing how he makes his mark on the work of the committee.”

Background:

The United States House Committee on Agriculture is a standing committee of the U.S. House of Representatives, responsible for developing legislation related to America’s food supply, agriculture, and rural communities. Working alongside its Senate counterpart, the Committee on Agriculture’s jurisdiction includes farm commodity programs, agricultural trade, nutrition programs, rural development, and research that helps keep American agriculture competitive and resilient. The Committee is also responsible for oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Through its work, the Committee plays a vital role in ensuring a stable food supply, supporting rural economic development, and maintaining the strength of American agriculture.

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Congressman Valadao Works to Improve Forest Management and Wildfire Prevention

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the Long-Term Good Neighbor Authority Act alongside Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). This bipartisan bill extends the Good Neighbor Authority program from 10 years to 20 years to allow the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to partner with state, tribal, and local partners to address wildfire risk and improve forest health.

“California is no stranger to devastating wildfires, and we need every tool available to better manage our forests and reduce this growing threat,” said Congressman Valadao. "By strengthening long-term collaboration between federal, state, tribal, and local partners, the Long-Term Good Neighbor Authority Act will take a more proactive approach to forest management and wildfire prevention. I’m proud to work alongside Rep. Panetta on this bipartisan effort to better protect our communities.”

"Our forests can't be protected and preserved on a short timeline, and neither can the partnerships it takes to protect them," said Rep. Panetta. "The Long-Term Good Neighbor Authority Act extends agreement terms between the federal government and states, counties, and Tribal governments up to 20 years, giving these partners the stability they need to conduct the forest restoration and recreation work that our communities depend on. With long-term partnerships, we can give our forests and public lands the sustained attention they need to thrive for generations to come."

“Forest management requires a long-term commitment as well as predictable and sustainable tools for those performing critical work," said Jay Farrell, Executive Director of the National Association of State Foresters. “Good Neighbor Authority is a proven and time-tested cross boundary tool for State Foresters and federal land managers to address wildfire risk and increase forest health, while providing economic benefit to rural communities. We thank Representative Valadao for his leadership, and we look forward to ensuring policies are in place to establish greater stability and predictability for states to fully leverage Good Neighbor Authority.”

Background:

The Good Neighbor Authority (GNA), first authorized in the 2014 Farm Bill, allows the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to partner with states, tribes, and local governments to carry out critical forest management and restoration work on federal lands. These partnerships have proven effective in reducing wildfire risk, improving forest health, and supporting rural economies. However, current GNA agreements are limited in duration, creating uncertainty for long-term projects that require sustained planning and investment. The Long-Term Good Neighbor Authority Act addresses that gap by authorizing agreements of up to 20 years, providing partners with the certainty needed to undertake large-scale, cross-boundary restoration efforts.

Read the bill here.

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Congressman Valadao Launches Bipartisan Caucus to Combat Human Trafficking

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22), joined by Reps. Troy Carter (LA-02), Laurel Lee (FL-15), and Lucy McBath (GA-06), launched the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. This caucus is a bipartisan coalition of members committed to advancing legislation and policy initiatives that raise public awareness of human trafficking, strengthen the United States’ prevention and prosecution efforts, hold traffickers accountable, and protect human trafficking victims.

"Human trafficking is a devastating crime that preys on the most vulnerable in our Central Valley communities, and while there’s no silver bullet solution, there are actions we can take to fight back,” said Congressman Valadao. “I’m proud to launch the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus to strengthen support for victims and survivors, improve coordination across federal, state, and local partners, and hold traffickers accountable. This caucus will engage lived-experience experts and key stakeholders to help guide future legislative action, and I look forward to working with my co-chairs to confront this crisis head on.”

"Human trafficking is an urgent threat in communities across our nation, and New Orleans is especially vulnerable as a hub for tourism and major events, leading to an increased rate of trafficking. I’m proud to join my colleagues in launching this bipartisan caucus to strengthen coordination at every level of government and hold traffickers accountable. I am committed to elevating survivor voices, protecting vulnerable populations, and ensuring victims have access to the support and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives," said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr.

“Human trafficking is an insidious crime that exploits both children and adults and preys on the most vulnerable in our communities,” said Rep. Lee. “I am proud to join the Congressional Combatting Human Trafficking Caucus and work alongside my colleagues to combat this abuse and hold traffickers accountable. Throughout my time in Congress, I have introduced and supported legislation focused on protecting victims and strengthening the tools law enforcement needs to stop traffickers. I look forward to continuing that work through this caucus and advancing policies that help protect vulnerable individuals and bring traffickers to justice.”

“We are proud to launch the Congressional Combating Human Trafficking Caucus, a bipartisan effort to strengthen Congress’s commitment to preventing human trafficking, protecting victims, and holding traffickers accountable,” said Rep. McBath, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime. “Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights that demands sustained action at every level of government. Through this caucus, we will work to raise public awareness, advance meaningful legislation, and coordinate closely with federal agencies, advocates, and community partners to confront this crime wherever it occurs. I thank my colleagues for their support on this issue. By bringing together members on both sides of the aisle, we are reinforcing our shared responsibility to combat trafficking and ensure that victims are protected.”

Supporting organizations include the American Hotel & Lodging Association, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, American Gaming Association, Interparliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking, Kids in Need of Defense, Polaris, TAT, Protect All Children from Trafficking, the Empowerment Dess Perkins Foundation, Kings County Sheriff’s Department, the Central Valley Justice Coalition, Central Valley Against Human Trafficking, It's a Penalty, 3Strands Global Foundation, Without Permission, Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking, Kings Community Action Organization, California Commission on Sexual Exploitation, Wellspring Living, and Street Grace.

"The creation of the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus is a powerful signal that our leaders in Washington are committed to treating this heinous crime with the urgency it demands. The hotel industry has been a leading voice in prevention through our No Room for Trafficking initiative which trains employees and supports survivors. We’ve long believed that preventing human trafficking requires partnership between the business community and government, and are eager to work more closely with the caucus co-chairs – Representatives David Valadao (R-CA), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Troy Carter (D-LA), and Lucy McBath (D-GA) – and all members of Congress to advance policies that strengthen prevention and support survivors on their path to stability and recovery,” said Rosanna Maietta, President and CEO, American Hotel & Lodging Association.

“The U.S. Chamber and our members are committed to combating human trafficking and we commend Rep. David Valadao, Rep. Troy Carter, Rep. Laurel Lee, and Rep. Lucy McBath for launching the Combating Human Trafficking Caucus. The U.S. Chamber looks forward to working with the Combating Human Trafficking Caucus in the fight to stop this heinous crime," said Rodney Davis, Head of Government Affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

"The AGA is proud to support the launch of the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Human trafficking is an issue that affects communities in all 50 states and requires strong collaboration across government, law enforcement, and community partners. We look forward to working closely with the Caucus and its stakeholders to advance policies and initiatives that strengthen prevention, awareness, and support for survivors,” said Alex Costello, Vice President, American Gaming Association (AGA).

"Human trafficking does not respect borders, and neither can the response to it. The formation of this caucus sends a clear signal that Congress is ready to match the urgency of this crisis with sustained, bipartisan commitment. Combating human trafficking requires more than good intentions, it requires coordinated legislative action. The launch of this caucus strengthens this coordination,” said Anne Basham, Chair, Interparliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking.

"KIND applauds Representatives David Valadao, Troy Carter, Laurel Lee, and Lucy McBath for launching the vital Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. The unaccompanied children that KIND serves too often face trafficking and other exploitation in their countries of origin and the United States alike. For decades, Congress has worked to address these abuses in a robust bipartisan fashion, including by helping ensure that unaccompanied children have attorneys who identify trafficking risks and guide children’s cooperation as victim-witnesses in the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators. The caucus embodies this bipartisan approach to preventing and combating trafficking. KIND looks forward to engaging with its members on pragmatic solutions that keep children safe and hold bad actors to account," said Wendy Young, President, Kids in Need of Defense.

"We welcome the establishment of this Caucus and are encouraged by its commitment to elevating the experiences and leadership of those most directly impacted by trafficking. Policies are strongest when they are informed by the realities people face in communities across the country, and when survivor insight and credible data guide the path forward. At Polaris, we believe effective policy must center survivors, protect their privacy and dignity, and draw on the best available data and insights from the field. We look forward to engaging with the Caucus as its agenda develops to help ensure these values remain at the forefront of legislative and policy efforts,” said Megan Lundstrom, CEO, Polaris.

"As a non-profit organization that partners with the transportation industry to combat human trafficking, TAT welcomes the establishment of a bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Since its founding in 2009, TAT has trained over 2.5 million transportation professionals on how to recognize and report human trafficking. We also train law enforcement and facilitate the creation of public-private partnerships. Recognizing that coordinated approaches are essential, TAT supports the Caucus’ goals of elevating the voices of survivors and partnering with experts to advance policies to prevent human trafficking, recover and support survivors, and hold traffickers accountable,” said Esther Goetsch, Executive Director, TAT.

"PACT—Protect All Children from Trafficking—is thrilled to support the reconstitution of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Human trafficking in general, and the commercial sexual exploitation of children in particular, is a terrible crime that transcends national and international borders, and efforts to prevent it must transcend political divisions. PACT looks forward to working with caucus co-chairs David Valadao, Laurel Lee, Lucy McBath, and Troy Carter to advance survivor-centered legislation that strengthens federal anti-trafficking efforts, from supporting the work of federal agencies to prevent trafficking to ensuring accountability for platforms that facilitate exploitation," said Aram Schvey, Senior Director of Policy and Government Relations, PACT.

“The Empowerment Dess Perkins Foundation, is honored to be a part of the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus, standing in commitment to protecting our youth, vulnerable individuals, and advancing meaningful solutions to end human trafficking. As a survivor, I believe that what happens to one of us should be the business of all of us. I speak for those who cannot, turning my pain into purpose, helping create legislation, and using my voice to advocate for prevention, protection future generations, and hope for survivors everywhere,” said Dess Perkins, CEO, the Empowerment Dess Perkins Foundation.

“As Sheriff of Kings County, I’m fully committed to this coordinated effort to combat human trafficking both locally and across California’s Central Valley. Like many smaller communities, Kings County has been directly impacted by this crime, and I strongly support measures that increase penalties and strengthen collaborative enforcement efforts. Human trafficking is far more widespread than many realize and often goes unreported. I’m grateful to the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus for taking meaningful action to fight back,” said Dave Putnam, Sheriff, Kings County.

“The Central Valley Justice Coalition is deeply grateful and encouraged by the formation of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Since 2010, the Justice Coalition has been focused on preventing human trafficking through education, partnership, and outreach. We are pleased to see our elected officials giving appropriate priority to prevention and early intervention combined with systemic change and informed by survivor voice. We look forward to future conversations as together we work to bring freedom and flourishing to every member of our community,” said Christa Wiens, Executive Director, Central Valley Justice Coalition.

“Fresno EOC Central Valley Against Human Trafficking is proud to support the launch of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. We are encouraged to see leaders coming together to strengthen national efforts to prevent trafficking and support survivors. As a direct service provider and leading organization of the Central Valley Freedom Coalition, a regional collaborative within California’s Central Valley, we recognize the critical role federal leadership plays in advancing victim-centered responses and prevention strategies. We look forward to continued collaboration to ensure all survivors receive the support and protection they deserve,” said Misty Gattie-Blanco, MS, Director for Sanctuary and Support Services, Central Valley Against Human Trafficking.

"We support the launch of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus and the opportunity it creates to strengthen coordination and prevention across sectors. Our work, delivered in partnership with frontline organizations and informed by lived experience, shows that addressing trafficking and exploitation requires trauma-informed approaches, stronger systems, and sustained collaboration. Human trafficking is a global issue that demands shared accountability, and we are committed to strengthening prevention and supporting vulnerable populations,” said Sarah de Carvalho, CEO, It’s a Penalty.

“Human trafficking cannot be addressed without centering the expertise of survivors and the organizations working alongside them every day. The formation of the Congressional Combating Human Trafficking Caucus signals a meaningful commitment to bipartisan leadership and survivor-informed policymaking. At 3Strands Global Foundation, we believe prevention, protection, and accountability must work together, and we look forward to partnering with members of Congress to advance solutions that strengthen communities and ensure survivors are not only heard, but empowered to help shape the policies that impact their lives," said Ashlie Bryant, CEO and Co-Founder, 3Strands Global Foundation.

"Since 2012 Without Permission has served 1,162 survivors of sex trafficking throughout Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties, 732 of those were children under the age of 18. Without Permission has three pillars, Prevention, Restoration, and Justice. In Prevention alone we have educated over 50,000 students. In Restoration we work to restore the survivors and support their families on their healing journey. Our Justice department works with District Attorneys, Law Enforcement agencies, and collaborates to provide trainings and education for further victim support and prevention. Without Permission exists to end sex trafficking and we are thrilled and honored to support the Combatting Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. We believe this Caucus will make a huge difference in the fight against Human Trafficking," said Clint Rangel, Director of Prevention, Without Permission.

"The Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking (KCAHT) stands in staunch support of victims and survivors of human trafficking through coordinated, community-based action. Since 2012, KCAHT has led a multidisciplinary approach that unites law enforcement, service providers, and community partners to deliver survivor-centered solutions and disrupt exploitation. KCAHT supports the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus and its commitment to advancing evidence-based policy, strengthening prevention and enforcement efforts, and elevating survivor voices at the national level. We commend the Caucus for its bipartisan leadership and focus on practical, survivor-informed solutions. We stay committed to working alongside federal, state, and local leaders to drive meaningful policy, expand access to critical services, and hold traffickers accountable. Thank you for your continued leadership and dedication to combating human trafficking across the United States," said Dustin Contreras, Co-Director, Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking.

"Kings Community Action Organization is proud to support the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus and its bipartisan commitment to strengthening prevention, protection, and prosecution efforts nationwide. The caucus’s focus on elevating survivor voices, improving coordination across all levels of government, and advancing evidence based policies reflects our shared mission to protect vulnerable populations and hold traffickers accountable. We look forward to collaborating on initiatives that promote safety, justice, and meaningful support for all impacted by trafficking," said Joey Cox, M.A, Director of Intervention, Prevention, and Support Services, Kings Community Action Organization.

"The California Commission on Sexual Exploitation is proud to support the launch of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. This effort represents a critical step toward strengthening national coordination to prevent trafficking, protect survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable. We commend the leadership of the caucus founders for prioritizing this urgent issue and fostering collaboration across sectors. We look forward to supporting the caucus’s work to advance meaningful policies and solutions that address human trafficking in all its forms," said Dr. Tiara King, CEO, California Commission on Sexual Exploitation.

"The formation of the Congressional Combating Human Trafficking Caucus is a critical step forward in our nation's fight against one of the most heinous crimes imaginable. We are grateful to Rep. Valadao, McBath, Lee, and Carter for standing together in this bipartisan effort. At Street Grace, we know that lasting change requires bold policy, survivor-centered solutions, and unwavering political will and this caucus represents all three. We look forward to partnering with Congress to ensure that every child is protected and every trafficker is held accountable." said Bob Rodgers, CEO, Street Grace.

Caucus priorities include:

Highlighting legislation that advances evidence-based prevention, programs, and other initiatives to combat human trafficking, including sex and labor trafficking.
Supporting and enhancing the work of federal agencies to prevent trafficking, disrupt financial networks, improve data collection, hold perpetrators accountable, and protect trafficking survivors.
Promoting sustained coordination among federal, state, and local partners to address trafficking ahead of large-scale events.
Advancing policies that ensure access to economic stability, legal remedies, and supportive services for victims of human trafficking.
Protecting youth and vulnerable populations through online safety safeguards, early intervention, and accountability for platforms that facilitate exploitation.

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Congressman Valadao Celebrates Critical Investments in California Water Infrastructure

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) released the following statement celebrating the Trump Administration’s commitment to releasing $540 million in funds for California water storage and conveyance projects to support critical water infrastructure improvements.

“After nearly a year of work, I'm proud to announce California will receive $540 million to support critical storage and conveyance projects across the state—the most significant water investment California has ever seen," said Congressman Valadao. "These funds, which my California Republican colleagues and I secured through the Working Families Tax Cut, will restore capacity, strengthen reliability, and improve our ability to capture and deliver water supplies. I appreciate the Trump Administration's efforts to ensure these resources reach the communities that need them most, and I look forward to continuing to work together to deliver a stable and secure water supply for California's 22nd Congressional District."

“Since being elected to Congress, Congressman Valadao's top priority has been to deliver real water solutions for his constituents. There isn’t a discussion or decision that’s made in Washington D.C. that doesn’t have him at the head of the table. As is the case with many of the issues and projects Congressman Valadao works on, the announcement made today will leave a lasting imprint on the east side of the San Joaquin Valley for generations. And the districts and communities that rely on the Friant-Kern Canal will forever be grateful,” said Johnny Amaral, CEO of the Friant Water Authority.

“This investment marks an important step toward restoring the capacity and performance of the Delta-Mendota Canal, a critical component of the Central Valley Project. Improving this infrastructure will strengthen water deliveries to communities, farms, businesses, and wildlife refuges across the region. We appreciate the leadership of Representatives David Valadao and Vince Fong and the Administration for advancing this funding to help improve the long-term affordability and reliability of the project," said Federico Barajas, Executive Director of the San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority.

"Westlands Water District applauds the Trump Administration and California congressional delegation members for their commitment to strengthening California's water storage and conveyance infrastructure. Federal funding for the Shasta Dam enlargement is a long-overdue investment in water supply reliability, one that will help California capture, store, and move water during wet years for use during inevitable dry years. Expanding storage and conveyance capacity is essential to sustaining the productive farmland and family farmers who feed America,” said Westlands Water District.

Key investments Congressman Valadao helped secure across California include:

$235 million for the Delta-Mendota Canal to raise canal embankments, repair check structures, and advance potential construction of a new concrete-lined canal segment.
$200 million for the Friant-Kern Canal for subsidence correction efforts.
$50 million for the San-Luis Canal to address subsidence issues affecting water delivery reliability.
$40 million to support planning and preconstruction activities associated with raising Shasta Dam to increase water storage capacity by roughly 634,000 acre-feet.
$15 million for the Tehama-Colusa Canal Authority to increase flow rates and improve system performance.

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Valadao, Levin Take Action to Fight Against Dangerous Drug-Resistant Diseases

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Congressman Mike Levin (CA-49) in reintroducing the Saving Us from Pandemic Era Resistance by Building a Unified Global Strategy (SUPER BUGS) Act. This bipartisan bill would help prepare for future pandemics by directing the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in consultation with the Department of State, to coordinate with foreign countries and other entities on the development and commercialization of new antimicrobial drugs, diagnostics, and other products to fight the global spread of pathogens resistant to treatment, also called “superbugs.” In the Central Valley, Valley Fever is a superbug that is resistant to antifungal treatment and has become more common in recent years.

“In the Central Valley, we see firsthand the growing threat of superbugs like Valley Fever, which are becoming harder to treat,” said Congressman Valadao. “The bipartisan SUPER BUGS Act strengthens coordination with our international partners to accelerate new treatments and tools to combat drug-resistant pathogens, and I’m proud to partner with Congressman Levin to help prevent the next global pandemic.”

“There is scientific consensus on the fact that our world will experience another global pandemic, and the next one is likely to be connected to antimicrobial resistance. It’s not a matter of if it will happen, it’s a matter of when,” said Rep. Levin. “In order to protect Americans and people across the world, we need international cooperation and a global strategy to fight superbugs that have become resistant to modern medicine. Our bill would direct the development of drugs and other products to fight superbugs by entering into partnerships with other countries and multilateral organizations. I thank Rep. Valadao for his partnership on this bill and look forward to it moving through the legislative process quickly.”

Supporting organizations include the American Society of Microbiology, Global Health Technologies Coalition, American Public Health Association, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Infectious Diseases Society of America, Sepsis Alliance, Treatment Action Group, and IAVI.

Background:

Antimicrobials—including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitic medicines—are essential tools used to prevent and treat infections. However, the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance is making many of these treatments less effective. As bacteria and other pathogens evolve to withstand existing drugs, infections that were once easily treatable are becoming increasingly difficult to manage.

In the United States alone, antibiotic-resistant bacteria infect at least 2.8 million people each year and cause more than 35,000 deaths. Despite the rising threat, the pipeline for new antimicrobial drugs remains limited. Because antimicrobial medicines are typically intended for short-term use, they often generate lower long-term revenue compared with drugs for chronic conditions, making them less attractive investments for pharmaceutical developers.

As of December 2018, there were 42 antibiotics in the global clinical development pipeline. Of those, only 11 were being developed to target “superbugs” identified on the World Health Organization’s critical threat list, highlighting a significant gap between the growing public health need and the pace of new drug development.

Read the bill here.

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Valadao, California Republican Congressional Delegation Issue Joint Statement on Dangers of Ongoing DHS Shutdown

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined the California Republican Congressional Delegation in issuing the following statement on the dangers of the ongoing partial shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

“Last month, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bipartisan funding package for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Regrettably, this critical funding has not passed the Senate, putting our safety and security at risk. As members of the California congressional delegation, we are committed to protecting the homeland and the American people. Public safety should never be used as a bargaining chip.

“Today, we face a heightened threat landscape as our great nation counters the imminent danger posed by the Iranian regime. Now more than ever, it is critical to ensure our nation’s largest law enforcement agency is fully operational and has the resources needed to neutralize any potential threats. The security of our homeland is not a partisan game. Our cybersecurity operations are weakened, critical intelligence sharing is disrupted, and over 250,000 public servants supporting our national security are being forced to go without pay – including our TSA agents who work every day to prevent terror attacks.

“In our own backyard, California is preparing to host part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, followed by the 2028 Summer Olympic Games. The safety and success of these global events hinge on DHS’ ability to maintain mission readiness. The longer this partial shutdown continues, the weaker our ability to prepare for these events becomes. To delay any longer is to risk the lives of countless Californians and millions of international visitors alike.

“Tomorrow, the House is expected to vote once again on DHS funding. Both sides of the aisle must come together in the spirit of responsible governance. In the strongest possible terms, we urge our Democrat colleagues to join us in voting to reopen DHS so it has the resources necessary to fulfill its mission and safeguard American communities.”

Congressman David Valadao, CA-22

Congressman Vince Fong, CA-20

Congressman Ken Calvert, CA-41

Congressman Darrell Issa, CA-48

Congressman Kevin Kiley, CA-03

Congresswoman Young Kim, CA-40

Congressman Tom McClintock, CA-05

Congressman Jay Obernolte, CA-23

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Congressman Valadao Updates FY27 Appropriations Deadlines

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) updated his Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) appropriations deadlines.

Community Project Funding requests

The deadline to submit Community Project Funding requests is Monday, March 9 at 11:59 PM PT. Click here for the FY27 Community Project Funding request portal.

Non-Defense programmatic funding and language requests

The deadline to submit non-Defense funding requests is Friday, March 6 at 11:59 PM PT. Click here for the FY27 non-Defense Appropriations request portal.

Defense programmatic funding and language requests

The deadline to submit Defense funding requests is Friday, March 6 at 11:59 PM PT. Click here for the FY27 Defense Appropriations request portal.

Our office encourages entities to complete their requests as soon as possible.

For questions regarding Defense Appropriations; Legislative Branch Appropriations; Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations; or Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations; please reach out to Kellie Hartl at Kellie.Hartl@mail.house.gov.

For questions regarding Energy and Water Appropriations; National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations; Homeland Security Appropriations; or Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations; please reach out to Olivia Speno at Olivia.Speno@mail.house.gov.

For questions regarding Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations; Financial Services and General Government Appropriations; Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations; please reach out to William Klepp at William.Klepp@mail.house.gov.

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Valadao, Bonamici Work to Identify Foreign Trade Obstacles for Specialty Crop Growers

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) to reintroduce the Specialty Crops Reporting on Opportunities and Promotion Act (Specialty CROP Act). This bipartisan, bicameral bill makes key improvements to the annual U.S. Specialty Crops Trade Issues Report to identify major trade barriers so specialty crop growers can boost sales in foreign markets. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR) introduced the companion legislation in the Senate.

“Specialty crops are a cornerstone of California agriculture—especially in the Central Valley—but while our state is a top exporter, our growers have unfortunately faced many challenges over the last few years,” said Congressman Valadao. “Many of our California-grown specialty crops rely on customers overseas, but due to unfair trade practices, burdensome labeling standards, and blockades in foreign markets, it makes it difficult to stay competitive. Our specialty crop producers deserve to compete on a level playing field in the global marketplace, and this bipartisan bill would take necessary steps to identify and combat unreasonable trade barriers more effectively.”

“The specialty crops are a vital part of Oregon’s economy,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. “Unfortunately tariffs, market uncertainty, and other global factors have hit specialty crop growers hard. I’m pleased to introduce the Specialty CROP Act to improve the USDA’s existing specialty crops trade report to better improve the competitiveness of U.S. specialty crops exports.”

“Specialty crop production is central to Idaho’s economy and our identity as a state,” said Senator Crapo. “Idaho farmers can outgrow the world, but high tariffs and burdensome labeling requirements imposed by foreign nations threaten our rural communities and keep agricultural producers from accessing global markets. Detailed and up-to-date information from USDA and USTR will help specialty crop growers navigate foreign markets and inform congressional and presidential efforts to address trade barriers and expand export opportunities.”

“The world is hungry for grown-in-the-U.S. blueberries, potatoes, wine and other produce. But all too often our farmers and producers are stymied by unreasonable blockades in foreign markets,” said Senator Wyden. “Our bipartisan bill will help rural Americans by identifying unfair foreign trade barriers and creating specific plans to cut through that red tape.”

The Specialty CROP Act would:

Improve the annual U.S. Specialty Crops Trade Issues Report to:

Explicitly require participation and engagement from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR).
Highlight specific trade barriers that limit the export competitiveness of specialty crops in specific markets, including tariff and non-tariff barriers.
Include an assessment of whether each trade barrier is subject to a U.S. FTA or international agreement.
Include specific information with respect to actions taken, or expected to be taken, by the U.S. government to address or resolve each trade barrier.
Require a request for comment from both the public and the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee (ATAC) for Trade in Fruits and Vegetables.

Require the report be made public, while allowing for a classified annex to protect U.S. national security and economic strategy.
Continue to define “specialty crop” as “fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture.”

Read the bill here.

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Congressman Valadao Releases Statement Following President Trump’s State of the Union Address

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) released the following statement after attending President Trump’s State of the Union Address.

“I was honored to attend President Trump’s State of the Union Address to a Joint Session of Congress,” said Congressman Valadao. “The President spoke about many issues that are critical to families across the country—from lowering costs and strengthening our health care system to expanding economic opportunity for the next generation and protecting our national security. These priorities are especially important to my constituents in the Central Valley, and I look forward to continuing to work with the Administration to meet these goals.”

Congressman Valadao’s guest was Doug Verboon, District 3 Supervisor for Kings County.

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