February 24, 2024

Forced Labor Has No Place in the U.S.

Photo: AFP / Park Young-Chul

Despite ongoing issues in the Chinese fishing sector, the WTO’s Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies still does not include a ban on subsidies for fishing activities that use forced labor. Evidence shows that several fishing companies are working with the Chinese government to recruit and utilize Uyghur forced labor.

I'm leading my colleagues in urging the Biden Administration to investigate allegations of forced labor in seafood supply chains with China. We all have a responsibility to combat human trafficking by reducing imports of goods produced by slave labor. With the upcoming World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Ministerial (MC13), the Administration must take on that responsibility with increased urgency

Intern in My Office

The application to intern in my Washington, D.C. or Cypress, CA offices for the Summer is now open. Students selected for an internship will gain invaluable work experience while learning about the inner workings of the House of Representatives. 

Candidates must possess excellent writing and verbal communication skills. In addition, we are seeking highly collaborative team players with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. If you are a hardworking, dedicated individual who has a desire to help improve the Southern California community, this internship is for you!

Cutting Red Tape

I introduced introduced the “Reduce Bureaucracy to Uplift Families Act” to ensure more funds from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program goes directly to those in need instead of funding the administrative bureaucracy.

For too long, taxpayer dollars that are intended to lift those in need out of poverty have been used instead to grow state bureaucracy. This commonsense legislation will ensure more TANF funds are delivered directly into the hands of needy Americans, as intended. I am proud to work with my colleagues on the Ways and Means Committee to reduce waste and protect taxpayer dollars.

Nominate a Woman of Distinction

Southern California is fortunate to be home to so many incredible women who contribute to the success of our communities. In anticipation of Women’s History Month, I am asking you to help me recognize outstanding women in California's 45th District who are civically engaged and committed to serving others. 

Between now and March 1st, my office will be accepting nominations for the 2023 Women of Distinction Awards. If you know a woman who lives or works in our district and deserves Congressional recognition for her contributions to our community, please visit my website to nominate her. 

What I'm Reading

Thanks for taking the time to read about what I've been doing on behalf of Southern California families. Be sure to connect with my official Facebook, X, and Instagram pages, where I post the latest news and updates. It is an honor to serve you in Congress.

Sincerely,

Rep. Michelle Steel
Member of Congress