Newsletter: April 2015

Statement

Dear Friend,

Here is a brief update on my work on behalf of Ventura County's veterans, local businesses, and transportation infrastructure.

My number one goal has always been to provide the highest level of constituent services possible. If you need help with a federal agency, please do not hesitate to contact my district office.

I hope that you will reach out to me to express your views about legislation and issues important to you. It is with your input that I can best advocate for our community.

It is an honor to serve as your voice in Congress.

JULIA BROWNLEY

Member of Congress

Brownley participates in "Stand Up 4 Transportation" event in Oxnard

I was proud to join Gold Coast Transit District at the "Stand Up 4 Transportation" event in Oxnard. Along with key stakeholders of the transportation community, I am committed to working with my colleagues in Congress on a new surface transportation authorization bill that addresses the growing backlog of transportation projects nationwide and brings our highways, transit, and rail networks to a state of good repair. I look forward to working on a bill that will keep Ventura County -- and our nation -- moving forward!

Brownley announces over $300,000 for Ventura County airports

I was pleased to announce that the Camarillo Airport will receive $310,500 from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for critical infrastructure improvement projects. The Camarillo Airport is a vital economic driver in our region. I am pleased to see the FAA continue to recognize this fact by providing much-needed funding to our local airports, which will help ensure the vitality of Ventura County's diverse economy.

Brownley meets with California Avocado Commission

Did you know that California produces about 90 percent of the nation's avocado crop? This month, I met with the California Avocado Commission to discuss the many successes and challenges they are facing including water and labor issues. I look forward to working with our local avocado growers to address their concerns and support this thriving, delicious, and healthy crop in our region.

Brownley advocates for independent redistricting commissions

As a member of the Democracy Task Force, I am committed to ensuring that our democracy works for the American people. Recently, I co-authored legislation that would develop citizen-driven redistricting commissions nationwide. We must return the levers of power in our democracy to our nation's citizens and restore faith in the democratic process.

Brownley tours Sun Valley Floral Farms in Oxnard

Recently, I had the pleasure of touring Sun Valley Floral Farms in Oxnard. As a member of the Congressional Cut Flower Caucus, I was thrilled to see the dedication of our local flower growers firsthand. I would especially like to thank Lane DeVries, a fourth-generation grower and current Chairman of the California Cut Flower Commission, for his insight and extensive knowledge of the beautiful flowers and foliage that they grow. In Congress, I will continue to be an advocate for legislation that will help grow our local agricultural industry, including cut flowers, to ensure the vitality of our region's economy.

Brownley introduces Veterans' Access to Child Care Act

This month, along with my colleagues on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, I introduced the Veterans' Access to Child Care Act, legislation which would expand and make permanent the VA's popular Child Care Pilot program. It is paramount that this country supports women and families, and veterans. We have both a moral obligation and an economic imperative to do so. My bill would provide all veterans in need of VA health care, who are primary caretakers, access to child care while also allowing VA facilities the flexibility to ensure that these programs meet local needs. Making this much-needed program permanent will remove an important barrier to enabling our veterans to receive the care that they have earned and deserve. Click on the photo below to read my release.

Brownley offers amendment to FY2016 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill

As Ranking Member of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health, I believe that cutting corners on VA funding compromises Congress's commitment to our nation's veterans. I spoke on the House floor to offer an amendment to the FY2016 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill that would have restored funding for major construction projects in the VA to $1.14 billion, to meet the level that the VA has requested. Watch my remarks below.

Brownley tours local manufacturer Raypak

I had the opportunity to tour Raypak, a leading manufacturer and distributor of commercial and residential water boilers, air conditioners, heaters, and pool and spa heat pumps. On our tour, we discussed how Congress can continue to support American manufacturing, such as by advancing Make it in America legislation.

Brownley attends Vietnam War exhibit at Museum of Ventura County

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the opening of the "We Remember: From Ventura County to Vietnam and Back" exhibit at the Museum of Ventura County. This exhibit pays tribute to Ventura County's Vietnam veterans, including the 108 men who were killed in action, through artifacts, documentary photographs, personal effects and audio and video recordings. As a member of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, I was pleased to have this opportunity to discuss legislation important to the veterans community, and how I am advocating for our community's veterans in Congress on a daily basis.

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