Dear neighbor, 

While Puerto Rico is still reeling from Hurricane Fiona, Floridians are suffering the devastating effects of Hurricane Ian. My heart goes out to all those affected during this extremely challenging time. I’m pleased that this week Congress passed a continuing resolution to fund the government that includes more than $18 billion for the FEMA Disaster Relief Fund. We will continue to work to ensure federal disaster relief is available for those impacted. The increased intensity and frequency of these massive storms is undeniable. We must change the way we think about resiliency in our infrastructure and we must continue to take significant action to address the climate crisis.

Here in Washington it was another busy week. House Democrats have been hard at work passing legislation to lower costs, create better-paying jobs, and make communities safer. Congress passed a temporary spending measure to ensure the government remains funded.   

In addition, I introduced a bill this week to regulate facial recognition technology (FRT), a surveillance tool used by law enforcement that – without transparency and reasonable limits – threatens Americans’ civil liberties. This bill is years in the making – and I am pleased the bill has the support of civil liberties groups as well as former law enforcement officials.

Here's a look at what else I’ve been working on:

• Wrote an op-Ed in the Los Angeles Times on my facial recognition legislation.  
• Joined my colleagues in passing a continuing resolution to fund the government and avoid a government shutdown. This legislation also includes more than $12 billion in security and financial assistance for Ukraine, as well as funding for disaster relief.
• Voted in favor of legislation to ensure students, educators and families can access the mental health resources they need.

COVID Homebound Vaccinations Program: 

From LA Public Health: 

If you or a loved one have difficulty leaving the home to get vaccinated against COVID-19, you can request in-home vaccination by calling 2-1-1 or the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Vaccine Call Center at 833-540-0473 (8am-8:30pm; 7 days a week). 

Residents can also fill out the online request form (multiple language options available) or visit ph.lacounty.gov/vaxathome for more information. Referrals from caregivers, loved ones, organizations, agencies, providers (among others) are welcome. All doses are available for eligible individuals ages 6 months and older at no cost. 

The Fall 2022 booster is also available for eligible individuals. Other family members or caregivers can be vaccinated during the same visit. For resources related to paratransit and free rides for vaccination, call the LA Public Health Vaccine Call Center or visit the How To Get Vaccinated page.

For more information on my work in Congress, please visit my website at lieu.house.gov and follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have any questions or concerns, please call our D.C. office at (202) 225-3976 or our Los Angeles district office at (323) 651-1040. 

I look forward to updating you again soon.

Sincerely, 

Ted W. Lieu 
Member of Congress