Right Now

Washington Needs to Live Within Its Means
As you may know, the House of Representatives recently voted to pass a half-trillion dollar spending bill that is both late and over-budget.  I strongly opposed this measure.  At such a high cost, and coming immediately after passing a trillion dollars in spending earlier this month, these bills will continue the pattern of spending money we don't have at the expense of our children and grandchildren.  This ongoing spending spree is being conducted under the misguided belief that massive government deficit spending can bring about economic prosperity.  While people all across the country are tightening their belts and making tough decisions, I believe Congress needs to live up to its responsibilities. This is why I have joined the call for a freeze in spending increases and I will continue to urge Congress to do so while we get our fiscal house in order. Share your thoughts

Congress Should Finally Make English Official Language
I wanted you to know that I recently became an original cosponsor of H.R. 997, legislation to make English the official language of the United States. By taking this action, federal officials would be obligated to preserve the role of English in our nation, and individuals from all nationalities would be encouraged and expected to learn this essential language.  The English language has been a uniting cultural force in this great nation and has enabled generations of Americans to realize the dream of American opportunity and freedom.  Studies continue to prove that the knowledge of English empowers newcomers, helping them become part of the mainstream in our society.  I have been an active supporter of English-first legislation throughout my tenure in the House of Representatives.  I will continue to urge House passage of H.R. 997 this year, and hope that the Senate and President Obama will support it. Share your thoughts

Recent Past

Report Concludes Iran Could Make Nuclear Bomb
A recently released report from the International Atomic Energy Agency indicates that Iran now possesses enough uranium to make, with added purification, one nuclear bomb. I am deeply troubled about the findings of this report.  It is now clear that Iran has the capacity to make a nuclear bomb, a development that would have potentially catastrophic implications in the volatile Middle East.  Iran supports and arms terrorists, including Hamas, has repeatedly tried to undermine our nation's mission in Iraq, and seeks to greatly expand their power in the region.  A nuclear Iran would represent a serious threat to our allies in the Middle East and U.S. security interests in the region and here at home.  While I appreciate the sincerity of President Obama's intention to negotiate directly with Iran's radical leadership, I do not believe we should be under any pretense that diplomatic talks alone will result in the termination of their nuclear program.  I will continue to urge a strong and united international response that condemns Iran's activities and pressures the regime to completely and permanently stop their nuclear program. As part of this pressure, I believe we must keep all options on the table. Share your thoughts

Western Caucus
I wanted to inform you that I continue to be a member of the Congressional Western Caucus and am hopeful that the Caucus will play an increasingly positive role in important debates over land management issues this year.  Along with my fellow members, I will work to highlight and urge action on topics such as energy development, wildfire, water, property rights and public lands management, just to name a few.  Further, as co-chair of the Western Caucus's committee on Healthy Forests and Wildfire, I will help lead our efforts to address the management of our federal forestlands and reduce the threat of catastrophic wildfire.  As the health and safety of Northern California communities continue to remain at risk of wildfire, it is my hope that the Western Caucus can assist in bringing a unified effort to this issue and help put commonsense forest management back on our landscape. Share your thoughts

Northern California News and Events

Learn How to Avoid Foreclosure Scams
During this economic down turn, people facing economic hardships and possible home foreclosures are naturally looking for help.  Unfortunately, some people looking to take advantage of these hard times are preying on those in need.  I am appalled by this activity and I wanted to alert you to a source of information to protect yourselves against these scams.  Please visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website so that you will know how to recognize a foreclosure rescue scam.  As the nation's consumer protection agency, the FTC is a reliable source of information during a difficult time. Share your thoughts

Grand Opening of Sutter Surgical Hospital in Yuba City
Over the President's Day work period, I had the opportunity to tour the brand new Sutter Surgical Hospital.  I understand the managers of the new facility have taken great efforts to involve local physicians in decisions regarding construction and design, including choosing the equipment and deciding on the working space and recovery room layouts, and hospital leadership indicated that local doctors will be involved in the day-to-day operational decisions.  I was very pleased that this state-of-the-art facility is now a reality for our North State residents.  As the Ranking Member on the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health, I support health care policies that allow for continued investments in new facilities that can help reduce costs, increase the quality of health care, and enhance patient care. Share your thoughts