|
Dear Friends,
This week in The People’s Congress, as we approach Memorial Day, Congress has once again pushed forward several contentious bills that threaten to undermine our community’s progress and well-being. As we head into the holiday weekend, let's focus on how we can hold our representatives accountable and fight for a brighter future for all. From setting rules for the cryptocurrency industry to limiting voting rights in D.C., each piece of legislation this week highlights the urgent need to uphold our values of justice, inclusivity, and accountability—and the repeated failures of our Congress to do so. Let’s break down this week’s legislative actions.
|
|
|
|
Reflecting on This Week's Key Legislation:
|
|
Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (H.R. 4763):
You may remember that we were talking a few weeks about how confusing crytocurrency is, even to legislators. Congress tried to figure things out again, this time with a bill thataims to clear things up a bit by establishing who has oversight over digital assets (here the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and when they can exercise it.Basically, it's like setting up traffic signs for the crypto world, which has exploded in size and left a lot of folks scratching their heads.
The crypto industry is all in on this bill because it finally gives them the clarity they've been craving. But here's the catch: while clear rules are awesome, we've got to make sure we're not throwing consumer protections out the window. Unchecked digital assets can spell trouble, causing financial chaos and leaving regular folks vulnerable to exploitation. This bill might open doors for more financial creativity, but we've got to keep a close eye on things to stop shady characters from preying on consumers and keeping the financial boat steady. Innovation's great, but it needs to play fair and keep everyone safe.
|
|
Prohibiting Non-Citizens from Voting in D.C. (H.R. 192):
This bill targets local D.C. law that lets non-citizens, including undocumented immigrants, vote in local elections. It's not just some small tweak; it's a full-on assault on the democratic rights of many residents who are a vital part of our communities. Under the current D.C. law, non-citizens can participate in local elections, giving them a voice in decisions that directly impact their lives, such as education, public safety, and housing policies.
I strongly oppose H.R. 192 because it undermines the principles of inclusivity and democracy that our nation prides itself on. Excluding non-citizens from local elections marginalizes a significant portion of our community, denying them representation and a say in how their tax dollars are used. Many of these individuals are long-term residents, parents of children in our schools, and active contributors to our local economy and culture.
My platform continues to emphasize the importance of inclusive democracy and believe that everyone who lives here should have a say in local matters. This bill goes against those values by disenfranchising people who are integral to our society. We need policies that expand participation, and ensure that all voices are heard.
|
|
CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act (H.R. 5403):
Yet another bill addressing cryptocurrency! But the focus is different here: This act aims to prevent the Federal Reserve from offering digital currency services directly to individuals or maintaining accounts on behalf of individuals. The intention here is to protect privacy and prevent potential government overreach in financial transactions. While the goal of protecting individual privacy is crucial, it's also important to consider the benefits that a central bank digital currency (CBDC) could bring, such as increased financial inclusion and more efficient financial transactions.
A CBDC could potentially provide a safer, more efficient way for people, especially those without traditional banking access, to manage their finances. However, any move towards implementing a CBDC must include robust safeguards to protect privacy and prevent misuse. Otherwise, we end up with another version of a broken financial system that only benefits the wealthy.
|
|
|
Congressional Agenda Look Ahead:
|
|
|
Farm Bill
The House will tackle the current version of the Farm Bill, which, as of now, includes devastating cuts to services our community desperately needs. The current draft includes a $30 billion cut to the SNAP program, which is a lifeline for millions of Americans and provide essential support to ensure food security for families and individuals in need. Cutting these funds would disproportionately impact the most vulnerable members of our society, exacerbating hunger and poverty. Our district’s families will suffer needlessly because of these cruel and unnecessary cuts.
The cruelty of the Farm Bill doesn’t stop there. If it passes in its current form, it will remove vital climate protections, undermining our efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable agriculture. This is disastrous for both farmers and our environment. As an example, we all know that climate change affects the availability of water. With less access to water, our farmers cannot grow their usual output of crops. A drop in production affects everything else: a farmer’s ability to keep their land, the wages they can pay their workers, and the prices that we pay at the grocery store. We are all connected. So our agricultural policies should support farmers in adopting practices that are both environmentally friendly and economically viable. Investing in sustainable agriculture not only helps mitigate the impacts of climate change; it also ensures the long-term health and productivity of our farmers and our farmland.
I will continue to advocate for policies that prioritize the health and well-being of our communities and our planet. We need a Farm Bill that supports sustainable agriculture, protects food security, and promotes environmental stewardship. It’s crucial that we push back against these harmful changes and work towards a bill that truly serves the needs of all Americans.
|
|
|
|
Bipartisan Tax Agreement:
The Senate is currently debating a House-passed tax package, but there is significant opposition, particularly regarding the Child Tax Credit. The Child Tax Credit is one of the most effective tools we have for reducing child poverty and providing financial relief to working families. Expanding the Child Tax Credit would put more money directly into the pockets of families, helping them cover essential expenses and invest in their children’s futures.
However, many Senate Republicans are pushing back against these provisions, which could delay or derail the passage of the bill. I have always emphasized the importance of creating a fair and equitable tax system that supports working families and reduces economic inequality. We need to fight for tax policies that prioritize the needs of everyday Americans over those of corporate interests and the wealthy.
|
|
|
|
Technology and Online Safety:
The Senate's Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) is gaining momentum, with 68 cosponsors, and there’s a bipartisan agreement to sunset Section 230 protections if long-term reforms aren’t made. Ensuring the safety of our children online is paramount, especially as they spend more time on the internet for education, socialization, and entertainment.
However, we must balance these safety measures with the need to protect free speech and hold tech companies accountable. Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act has been a cornerstone of internet regulation, providing liability protections for online platforms while fostering innovation and free expression. But it has also allowed some companies to avoid responsibility for harmful content and behaviors on their platforms.
We must continue to push for stronger regulations that protect users, especially children, from online harm while maintaining the fundamental principles of free speech. We need comprehensive reforms that ensure tech companies are held accountable for their actions, and that user data and privacy are protected.
|
|
|
|
Engage and Reflect:
These legislative actions underscore the critical need for your engagement. Whether it's the Farm Bill, the Child Tax Credit, or ensuring the safety of our children online, these issues impact us all. Now is the time to act if any of these bills concern you. Remember, a bill must pass both the House and Senate and receive the President's signature to become law. Your voice truly can shape these outcomes.
Make sure to contact your Senators and Representatives to share your thoughts and make a difference. If you need help finding your Representative’s and/or Senator’s contact information, you can find it HERE.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our community. Together, we are making a difference and pushing for a better future for all. It’s time for us.
Onward,
David Kim
Candidate for Congress, CA-34
|
|
|
|
|
