Statements on Introduced Bills and Joint Resolutions

Floor Speech

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Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the Transportation Assistance for Olympic Cities Act and the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games Commemorative Coin Act, which I introduced today.

While the eyes of the world will be on the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028, the work preparing our region for this grand stage is already starting. That is why I am proud to introduce these bills that will help carry out the Games and make investments in the region and across our Nation.

The Transportation Assistance for Olympic Cities Act would ensure the Federal Government provides critical assistance for surface transportation projects and plans relating to international Olympic, Paralympic, and Special Olympics events. The transportation plans made in the coming years will not only make the Olympics and Paralympics run smoothly but will also be an investment in infrastructure that will benefit commuters and the region for years to come.

This bill would also allow the Department of Transportation to prioritize Federal transportation grants for projects relating to an Olympic, Paralympic, or Special Olympics International event and to provide funding for temporary facilities, equipment, operations, and maintenance that meet the extraordinary needs associated with hosting such events.

The LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games Commemorative Coin Act would direct the Treasury Department to mint coins in commemoration of the ninth time that the United States will host the modern Olympics and the third time that our Nation will host the Paralympics. This bill would come at no cost to the Federal Government. Any surcharges from the sale of the coins would support the hosting of the 2028 Games and aid in the execution of legacy programs, including the promotion of youth sports in the United States.

I want to thank Representative Brownley and Representative Sherman for co-leading these bills with me, and I hope our colleagues will join us in support of these bills that will help Los Angeles, California, and our entire Nation prepare for the successful administration of the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics.

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