2013 Year in Review by Rep. Mike Honda

8/13/2019 2013 Year in Review by Rep. Mike Honda

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2013 Year in Review

Congressman Mike Honda

Representing the17th District of California

ALVI SO CU PER TINO F REM ONT MILPITAS NEWARK SAN JOSESANTA CLARA SUNNYVALE

U.S. CONGRESSMAN MIKE HONDA | 17TH DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA

23 50.94

VValley

28.08

SiSilicon

14


2/43

i

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to

serve you in Congress. I work each day for

all residents of California's 17th district, and

will continue to fight for good jobs, a strong

innovation economy, and even greater

educational opportunities for our children. I

hope you read what my staff and I have been

working on this year, both in Washington

and here in Silicon Valley. Please don't

hesitate to contact my office to let me know

what's on your mind or if I am able to help

you with a federal agency. And thank you

again for allowing me to represent you

remember, I'm here for you!


3/43


4/43

CORE SERVICES

1. Assist you with a federal agency;

2. Contact on your behalf: the Internal Revenue

Service, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service,

Veterans Administration, and more;

3. Host events, town halls and office hours to connectyou with federal officials and resources;

4. Nominate you to a military academy;

5. Connect students with federal financial aid

resources;

6. Provide internships in any of my offices for students

and recent graduates;

7. Request a tour on your behalf, including the White

House, U.S. Capitol and the U.S. Supreme Court;

and,

8. Request and process a flag to be flown over the U.S.

Capitol, and many more services.

SECTION 1:CORE SERVICES

How I Can Help You

3

Contact youMy staff or I willcontact you about your

case.

Sign Privacy

Release FormI need your permissionto work on your case,

and contact federalagencies on your

behalf.

Reach outContact me and my staff

about your concerns.

A DiscussionContinues

After agencies respond,I work with you and

your family to resolvethe issue.

Begin a

conversationI make contact with theagency and review thestatus of your request.

ReceiveResponse from

AgencyThe agency concludesaction on your case.

Casework(!k!s"w"rk|)

n. Social work directly concerned

with individuals


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SECTION 2:CASEWOR K

Success StoriesImmigrationJohn

A CFO had an employee with H1-B visa

on delay in a foreign consulate. The

employee was essential and asked for

my help. My staff worked with

Consulate and the visa was approved

within an incredible 14-day period.

Simranjit

A minor when her father naturalized,

she unsuccessfully tried to get her

N600 certificate after her father, who

lost his documents, had died. My staff

was able to get Citizenship and

Immigration Services to process a

Freedom of Information Act request soshe could get proof of citizenship.Mark

Marks wife and daughter were being

discriminated against throughout their

immigration review. My staff

intervened and the family was reunited,and allowed for the daughter to begin

school in the U.S.

Harleen

When Harleen filed a visa for her

husband she was told she was approved

but heard nothing back for 5 months.

My staff worked to get her husbands

visa approved with an amazing five-day

turnaround.

Maria

A lawful permanent resident, her sons

were still being petitioned to become

lawful permanent residents. My staff

inquired and Maria immediately

received the employment authorizationand her sons were able to start work.

Judy

She and her wife were able to complete

the immigration process, and obtain a

green card as a spouse, after I

4

Casework: 2013

My staff in the San Jose

office handles all

constituent casework, and

is always available to hear

your concerns, contact a

federal agency on yourbehalf, and provide advice

when appropriate.

Year in Review

661 cases opened

697 cases closed

1,400 requests processed

4,500 letters written onbehalf of constituents

245 agencies and officials

contacted

6,800 hours worked

Nearly700casesresolvedthisyear!


6/43

petitioned the Department of Homeland Security to recognize

same-sex marriages for the purposes of immigration.

Parkkash

He filed for renewal of his employment authorization

document but the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service

(USCIS) claimed there were applications errors so his casewas delayed by several weeks and he lost his job. As the sole

breadwinner, this put his family at server financial risk. My

staff sent an expedited request to USCIS, and his case

approved within a few short weeks, allowing his family to

regain their financial footing.

Anonymous

A boy came to the U.S. on a visitor visa as a child and was out

of status until his mother was able to adjust her status andapplied for her son to adjust as well.Due to logistical issuesthe sons application was never completed. As the son applied

to graduate school his status became problematic. My staff

made sure he was issued the necessary green card so he could

attend graduate school.

Xizhi

Xizhi petitioned for her husband from China. The process

took a long time and XJ was very concerned. Ultimately, my

staff were able to move the petition to the interview stage at

the embassy. However, Xizhi experienced marital distress and

verbal abuse by her husband. She returned to China to try to

resolve the problem, but was abused there as well. She quickly

returned to the U.S. and asked that my staff immediately stop

the immigration process. My staff acted quickly to protect her

from an abusive husband.

Shazaan

Shazaans husband waited almost two years to get his

permanent residence application approved, which was

undergoing extensive background checks. Staff requested an

expedite of the permanent resident status that was approved

in less than a month.

Taxes

MarkAfter the IRS erroneously levied a $34,000 tax against his

closed company, my staff and I worked with the IRS for four

months until his entire penalty was abated.

Social Security

Peter

A veteran mistakenly billed $6,000 by the VA because their

records incorrectly showed that he had Medicare A & B

coverage, when he only had Part A. My staff worked with the

VA to ensure that his claims were reevaluated for payment.

Veterans and Military

JosephA veteran with ALS, he waited over 18 months for a response

for benefits from the VA. With the work of my staff, Joseph

received an increase from $3,800 to $7,200 per month and

retroactive benefits of $52,900.

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7/43

David

Davids claim filed for service-connected disability related to

Agent Orange was stalled.My staff intervened and David wasawarded service-connected at the 10 percent rate, monthly VA

compensation payments of $229.00 and a retroactive

payment of $3,369.00 within 5 to 10 business days.John

A veteran, had his VA claim pending. After my staff

intervened, he was awarded a retroactive payment of $18,001

and recurring monthly compensation of $1,930.00.

Patrick

An Army veteran who was honorably discharged, was not

issued his Korea Defense Service Medal or his Vietnam

Gallantry Medal. My staff sent an inquiry to the NationalPersonnel Records Center, and the NPRC issued the medals,

which I presented to Patrick.Stacey

Stacey, n honorably discharged veteran, used her GI Bill after

leaving service, but temporarily withdrew from her academic

program. Despite notifying the VA of her deferment, the VA

mistakenly issued another payment to her school, which was

returned, but not properly processed. The VA began debt

collection against Stacey, which negatively affected her credit

score. My staff sent an inquiry with evidence to the VA, who

acknowledged and corrected the mistake.Andre

Andre, a former Sergeant First Class, re-enlisted in the CA

National Guard and was told by his recruiter that he qualified

for a bonus and the student loan repayment program if he re-

enlisted, but the CAARNG told him he was not qualified and

demanded he pay back the bonus and loan repayment. My

staff intervened and were able to cancel his debt of over

$27,000.

Families & PassportsDavid

David needed documents certified by the Cuban Public

Interest Section to marry a woman from Cuba. Within weeks

staff were able to obtain a direct contact who was able to

process Davids documents.

Sarah

Sarah got a job in Spain then sent in her FBI background

check uncertified, which could have prevented her from

obtaining the necessary visa. An expedited request was sent to

the FBI and the State department, allowing her keep her

teaching position.

Michelle

Michelle was robbed of her naturalization certificate, birth

certificate and passport. My staff expedited her replacementsso she could travel on time.

Jose

Jose is a U.S. citizen who grew up in Mexico. He was having

trouble applying for a passport because he lacked adequate

personal records. My staff worked to get the U.S. Passport

Office to reconsider his application and issue his passport.

6


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Supporting Constituents Abroad

In December, I welcomed the return of Vietnamese-American

college student Anna at San Francisco International Airport.An American citizen and undergrad at UC Davis, Anna had

been studying abroad in Vietnam since August, but was

prevented from returning to the U.S. at Tan Son Nhat Airport

in Ho Chi Minh City when local authorities accused her of

affiliating with pro-democracy causes.

She had been held and interrogated by Vietnamese

immigration officers for nearly a week before finally being

allowed to return home to the Bay Area. Some of the key

freedoms Americans enjoy in this country are the freedoms of

speech and assembly. The fact that Anna was detained onsuspicion of disagreeing with the Vietnamese government

shines a light on the country's troubling overall human rights

record.

I will continue to fight for the rights of all people to live and

speak freely, whether that be though improved diplomatic

efforts, increased funding for international aid, or a

comprehensive immigration policy that welcomes those indesperate need of political asylum.

When Annas situation was first brought to my attention my

staff immediately contacted State Department officials,

American Citizen Services, and the U.S. consulate in Ho Chih

Minh City to vigorously advocate for her release, as well as

support and reassure Anna.

7


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MY PRIORITIES &ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Legislation25 54.94

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118.7

nnnyvale

Through my legislative work, I have

represented the interests of all of the

residents of the 17th District. This

agenda builds upon my past record of

enacting legislation. As a Senior

Member on the House AppropriationsCommittee, I am applying my years of

experience in Congress and at the state and local

level to guide the work of federal agencies and

direct funding to programs that best address the

needs of our communities.

6.94

LiLegislation

3

276

tlpitas

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eJose

63 151.96

EuEducation

127.60

ehnology

16 32.06

SService

6 12.11

CCupertino


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25 54.94

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Economy | Supporting the Innovation Economy of Silicon Valley

25 54.94

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ssmium

21 44.95

ScSanta Clara

34 78.96

SeSan Jose

13 276

MtMilpitas

78.96

118.7

nnnyvale

25 127.60

TeTechnology

77 192.22

IrImmigration

16 32.06

SService

16 32.06

192.22

Irigration

25 54.94

MnManufacturing

68 167.26

ErEarth

4 265.12

RfReform

9 18.98

FFamilies

87 289

FrForeign Affairs

2 4.00

HeHealth Care


11/43

INTRODUCED

1. Strengthening Social

Security Act (H.R.

3118)

2. Responsible Debt

Ceiling (H.R.233)

3. Scaling Up

Manufacturing Act

(H.R.616)

4. Market Based

Manufacturing Act

(H.R.615)

5. Entrepreneur-in-

Residence Act (H.R.

3559)

6. Volunteer Income Tax

Assistance (VITA) Act

(H.R.341)

Preserving Social Security for Generations

I introduced the Strengthening Social Security Act, with Rep.

Linda Sanchez, which would increase benefits for current Social

Security beneficiaries while making Social Security stronger for future

generations by: eliminating the cap on how much of an individuals

earnings can be paid into Social Security; changing the benefits

formula to increase payments by

about $70 a month; and, adopting a

higher cost of living adjustment to

better reflect the rising cost of

healthcare for seniors.

This legislation will ensure that

benefits keep up with today's rising

costs, and that current and future

retirees regain the security of aging

with dignity. There is no doubt that

the program needs structural

improvements, and the fairest,

simplest way to keep it solvent is to

10

25 54.94

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LEGISLATION |ECONOMY

Protecting the Middle Class262.11

LrLeadership

103

Video provided by the Alliance for Retired

Americans. East side of U.S. Capitol. October 3,

2013.

Mike Honda:

Scrap the Cap!


12/43

require all Americans regardless of income level to

contribute equally.

The 17th District would receive

$7,000,000 more per month in Social

Security benefits from my bill.

I held a press conference in August announcing the

legislation, and dozens of members have since signed on as

co-sponsors. The bill also has the support of numerous

community and advocacy organizations, including Social

Security Works, AFL-CIO, AFSCME, Campaign for

Community Change, Paralyzed Veterans of America, UAW,

ARC, Alliance for Retired Americans, National EducationAssociation, United Steelworkers, Senior Citizens League,

MoveOn.org, Progressive Change Campaign Committee, and

Democracy for America.

Restoring Manufacturing

I introduced the Scaling Up Manufacturing Act of 2013 which

would defray the cost of manufacturing in the United States

for startup companies by providing a 25 percent tax credit on

expenditures toward the construction, purchase, or lease of

their first manufacturing facility in the U.S.

Manufacturing is critical for our 21st Century

economy.

To that end, Ive created introduced the Market Based

Manufacturing Incentives Act which creates a non-partisan

commission of industry leaders to designate the next

disruptive products that will change markets and makes each

of these products eligible for a consumer tax credit, provided

they are manufactured domestically. This creates a clear

incentive for companies to locate manufacturing facilities inthe U.S. and is a cornerstone of the House Democrats Make

It in America platform.

Tax Reform

I introduced the VITA Act of 2013 (H.R.341) to ensure that

low-income individuals take advantage of existing ladders of

opportunity to reach underserved taxpayers. The VITA Actwould result in millions more families accessing vital tax

credits Congress enacted to help them, such as the Earned

Income Tax Credit (EITC), the Child Tax Credit (CTC), and

the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC).

11

COMMUNITY RECOGNITION

A vocal advocate for...Social Security fortodays and tomorrow' retirees.

Karen Friedman, Executive Vice President of Pension Rights Center

A tireless leader for preserving Social Security.

Max Richtman, President , National Committee to Preserve Social Security & Medicare


13/43

25 54.94

MnManufacturing

63 151.96

EuEducation

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Technology | Bringing Silicon Valley Innovation to Washington

25 54.94

MnManufacturing

ssmium

21 44.95

ScSanta Clara

34 78.96

SeSan Jose

13 276

MtMilpitas

78.96

118.7

nnnyvale

25 127.60

TeTechnology

77 192.22

IrImmigration

16 32.06

SService

16 32.06

192.22

Irigration

25 54.94

MnManufacturing

68 167.26

ErEarth

4 265.12

RfReform

9 18.98

FFamilies

87 289

FrForeign Affairs

2 4.00

HeHealth Care


14/43

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. PATENT Jobs Act

(H.R.2582)

2. Excellence in

Cybersecurity Act

(H.R.2556)

3. Defense

Appropriations Act

creates broad base of

semiconductor

suppliers

4. Norman Y. Mineta San

Jose Intl. Airportreceived $3 million in

federal funding

A Permanent U.S. Patent Office in San Jose

Early in 2013, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) began

the site selection process for the permanent Silicon Valley office.

Unfortunately, budget sequestration hit the agency, and the resulting

uncertainty put the process on hold. I introduced legislation (H.R.

2582) to exempt USPTO from sequestration and sought to repeal

sequestration through an amendment in the Appropriations

Committee, and I am continuing those efforts to enable USPTO to

have the resources it needs to operate the office. Commerce, Justice,

Science Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Frank Wolf met with

USPTO officials and encouraged them to think outside the box and

find creative solutions to opening the permanent office even in the face

of sequestration. In November, such a solution was found, and I am

excited that the permanent office should be opening in San Jose City

Hall by the end of 2014.

Cybersecurity: An Imperative

I have been a part of the vigorous debate in Congress about the best

way to improve security of online systems while balancing privacy

concerns. Working with industry and local governmental stakeholders,

13

LEGISLATION |TECHNOLOGY

Bringing Innovation to Washington

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I developed and introduced the Excellence in Cybersecurity

Act (H.R. 2556), which would establish five regional and

industry-specific Centers of Excellence nationwide, bringing

together stakeholders from academia, government, and the

private and non-profit sectors to analyze threats and develop

best practices. I have also been an outspoken critic of the

National Security Agencys surveillance of electroniccommunications by Americans, and am an original cosponsor

of the USA FREEDOM Act to curtail blanket data collection.

Supporting the Semiconductor Industry

Through my role on the House Appropriations Committee, I

secured language in the Defense Appropriations Act that aims

to foster the participation of a broad base of suppliers in the

DODs Trusted Foundry Program in order to maintain a

healthy and vibrant industrial base that can serve as a trustedsupply chain for semiconductor microelectronics for the

Defense Department. This follows on my efforts to provide

federal support to the domestic semiconductor manufacturing

equipment industry as it undertakes the research and

development that will be needed for the transition to larger

450 mm wafers.

14

Drawing the Line on Government

Surveillance

By Rep. Mike Honda.Published Dec. 12, 2013. The Huffington Post.

Earlier today, eight of the country's leading technology

firms unveiled a website and released five principles for

regulating online surveillance by governments worldwide. I

applaud AOL, Apple, Facebook, Google, LinkedIn,

Microsoft, Twitter, and Yahoo for presenting their case on

this very important topic.

The revelations that have come out about the National

Security Agency's PRISM program are disturbing. The

scale and scope of the collection of information about

electronic communications and telephone calls that

originate and pass through the United States is truly

astounding.

Mike tours NASAs Ames ResearchCenter with NASA Administrator

Video provided by NASA. May 20, 2013.


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25 54.94

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Education | Investing in the Future

25 54.94

MnManufacturing

ssmium

21 44.95

ScSanta Clara

34 78.96

SeSan Jose

13 276

MtMilpitas

78.96

118.7

nnnyvale

25 127.60

TeTechnology

77 192.22

IrImmigration

16 32.06

SService

16 32.06

192.22

Irigration

25 54.94

MnManufacturing

68 167.26

ErEarth

4 265.12

RfReform

9 18.98

FFamilies

87 289

FrForeign Affairs

2 4.00

HeHealth Care


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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. The Stepping up to STEM

Act (H.R.1089)

2. The Elementary STEM

Content Coach Act (H.R.

1090)

3. Elementary EducatorSTEM Content Coach Act

(H.R.1090)

4. Educator Preparation

Reform Act (H.R.2172)

5. Sandra Day OConnor

Civic Learning Act (H.R.

1802)

6. Strengthen and United

Communities with Civics

Education and English

Development Act (H.R.

1258)

Equity and Excellence Commission Report

On February 2, 2013 the

Equity and Excellence

Commission, a

commission I created

through the

appropriations process,

released the report

entitled For Each and

Every Child. This

groundbreaking report (1)

provides advice on the

disparities of meaningful

education opportunities

that students face, (2)

focuses on financial

systems at the state, and

(3) federal level and

makes bold recommendations to increase equity in education for every

child. You can learn more about the commissionandread the report.

16

LEGISLATION |EDUCATION

Ensuring Excellence in Education

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http://www2.ed.gov/about/bdscomm/list/eec/equity-excellence-commission-report.pdfhttp://www2.ed.gov/about/bdscomm/list/eec/equity-excellence-commission-report.pdfhttp://www2.ed.gov/about/bdscomm/list/eec/index.htmlhttp://www2.ed.gov/about/bdscomm/list/eec/index.html


18/43

Fostering STEM Education

On March 12, 2013, I introduced two pieces of legislation to

encourage and foster the growth of Science, Technology,

Engineering and Math (STEM) education. The Stepping up to

STEM Act (H.R.1089) and

The Elementary STEMContent Coach Act (H.R.

1090). These pieces of

legislation would increase

research of STEM

programs and enhance the

quality of STEM

instruction in our schools.

Technology-Enabled Innovation

Partnerships Grant Act

Recognizing the need for more STEM funding in the

classroom, I introduced the Technology-Enabled Innovation

Partnerships Grant Act (H.R.

3325) to create grants to fund

innovative uses of technology in

the classroom and provide

money for research regarding

the implementation of

technology in the classroom.

The Department of Education

would administer the grants,

and--its my hope--research could then be shared with other

teachers and scaled up.

An Hour of Code

In December, I hosted an "Hour of Code" with a diverse group

of high school juniors and seniors in celebration of ComputerScience Education Week. Recognized by Congress and

celebrated since 2009, the week-long event is a way to

generate interest in coding and online technology among

students with little to no experience in the area. The students

and I spent the hour programming code for the popular Angry

Birds smartphone game.

An IDEA: Equity in EducationWe will not achieve equity in education simply from equal

funding. There are many students who need additional

resources in order to receive equal opportunities. To truly

grant all students equal opportunities, children from low

income households, English language learners, and students

with disabilities need special accommodations and assistance.

That is why I strongly support strengthening IDEA, the

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (H.R.2161), and

this year I requested to fully fund IDEA through the

Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee on Labor, Health

and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies.

17


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Veterans | Honoring Service & Sacrifice

25 54.94

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34 78.96

SeSan Jose

13 276

MtMilpitas

78.96

118.7

nnnyvale

25 127.60

TeTechnology

77 192.22

IrImmigration

16 32.06

SService

16 32.06

192.22

Irigration

25 54.94

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68 167.26

ErEarth

4 265.12

RfReform

9 18.98

FFamilies

87 289

FrForeign Affairs

2 4.00

HeHealth Care


20/43

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Military Family Leave

Act (H.R.1333)

2. GI Bill Tuition

Fairness Act (H.R.357)

3. Homes for Heroes Act

(H.R.384)

4. Veterans Mental

Health Accessibility

Act (H.R.1725)

5. Veterans E-Health &

Telemedicine Support

Act (H.R.2001)

6. Victims of Agent

Orange Relief (H.R.

2519)

I would like to personally thank all veterans and their families for theirservice to our country. I strongly believe that it is Americas duty to

provide them with the care they deserve. That is why I have been a

strong advocate for programs that assist veterans here at home. I am

also a proud member of the Congressional Work for Warriors Caucus,

which contacts servicemen and women while they are still abroad to

begin preparing them for reintegration into the civilian workforce.

Reducing the BacklogAs a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I am proud to

announce that I helped secure funding and provide direction to the VA

and the Department of Defense to reduce the VA benefits backlog and

push for greater access to medical and mental health services for all

our nations veterans. Working with a bipartisan group of colleagues,

we secured $343.6 million to develop a new electronic health system

that will dramatically ease the claims process, and additional fundingto hire more claims processors. This is especially important for our

district, as the VA Oakland Regional Office still has 73% of its claims

pending for more than 125 days, an unacceptable backlog that must be

corrected.

19

LEGISLATION |VETERANS

Ensuring Access to Benefits

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Aiding the Vulnerable

I am also proud to announce that the VA awarded $2.8

million in grants to aid homeless and at-risk veterans and

their families in Silicon Valley. The funding will be spread

across three organizations in the region the Emergency

Housing Consortium of Santa Clara County, GoodwillIndustries of Santa Clara County, and Abode Services in

Fremont. I will continue to fight for you in Washington.

Serving Veterans

As your Representative in Congress, I am pleased to provide

an array of services for veterans, ensuring you receive the

benefits you are entitled. For the past thirteen years, it hasbeen my honor to work on behalf of veterans and their

families, and I would like to share as an example the story of a

veteran I recently helped.

Joseph of Santa Clara

Joseph is an 82 years old veteran who has lived in Santa Clara

for the last 50 years. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine

Corp from 1951-1953, receiving an honorable discharge.Unfortunately, four years ago he was diagnosed with

Amytrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a terminal illness also

known as Lou Gherigs disease. His ALS has caused him to

lose his upper extremity functions and confined him to a

wheelchair. Although he has a 100% disability rating from the

VA, he had been unable to get his Special Home Adaptive

Grant expedited in the full year and a half after filling his

claim.

Joseph approached my office in early July of this year asking

for assistance navigating the VA process. I am happy to say

that I was able to intervene on his behalf. Working with the

VA, I was not only able to get Josephs eligibility for specially

adapted housing recognized, but was also able to secure him

an increased monthly VA benefit it has nearly doubled

and a retroactive payment of over $50,000. I know that these

benefits will make a world of difference to him and his family.

Coffee & Casework with Veterans

In November, I held a veterans roundtable to talk with them

about their concerns, get to know them, as well as provide

them with resources from veterans service providers. After

discussing the

issues impacting

veterans and

their families,

caseworkers

were on hand to

help them with

claims and

access to other

resources they

had earned.

20

Mike shakes hand with a veteran at his Coffee & Casework

Event. November 16, 2013.


22/43

25 54.94

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Immigration | Fighting for Reform that Strengthens Our Economy

25 54.94

MnManufacturing

ssmium

21 44.95

ScSanta Clara

34 78.96

SeSan Jose

13 276

MtMilpitas

78.96

118.7

nnnyvale

25 127.60

TeTechnology

77 192.22

IrImmigration

16 32.06

SService

16 32.06

192.22

Irigration

25 54.94

MnManufacturing

68 167.26

ErEarth

4 265.12

RfReform

9 18.98

FFamilies

87 289

FrForeign Affairs

2 4.00

HeHealth Care


23/43

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Startup Act 3.o (H.R.

714)

2. Reuniting Families Act

(H.R.717)

3. Strengthen and Unite

Communities with

Civics Education and

English Development

Act (H.R.1258)

4. Fairness for High-

Skilled Immigrants Act

(H.R.633)5. Filipino Veterans

Family Reunification

Act (H.R.966)

Since coming to Congress, I have continuously led the effort to ourbroken immigration system so that it is comprehensive and invests in

Americas future.I believe in an immigration system that respects the

dignity of immigrant communities and recognizes their contributions

to Americas economy and culture. As the son of strawberry

sharecroppers, I understand the barriers and struggle facing

immigrant individuals and families everywhere. I know we can make

Silicon Valley, and our nation, stronger by upholding our values and

principles and honoring the entrepreneurial spirit of the Americandream.

Startup Act 3.0 | Strengthening Our Economy

I know that immigration reform is critical to advancing Silicon Valleys

and our nations technological innovation and economic global

competitiveness. I understand that enhancing the employment-based

visa categories, including higher caps on H-1B visas and foreignstudents with advanced U.S. degrees in science, technology,

engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, not only makes sense,

but doing so makes dollars and cents for our district and nation. That

is why I support the Startup Act 3.0, which would promote economic

growth by encouraging investment in startup companies and offering

22

LEGISLATION |IMMIGRATION

The Time is Now

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permanent residence to entrepreneurs who create jobs in the

U.S. I know that the immigrants spirit is the story of

entrepreneurs. I also cosponsored the Attracting the Best and

Brightest Act, which would create a green card category for

persons with advanced degrees in STEM.

A More Perfect Union | ReunitingFamilies Act

For too long has our immigration system been an exclusionary

tool to keep families apart. That is why, in the past four

Congresses, I have led by introducing the Reuniting Families

Act (RFA) to reduce the visa backlog for legal immigrants and

ensure our families all our families can be reunited.

Additionally, this bill would eliminate discrimination inimmigration law against same-sex binational permanent

partners and their families who are seeking to reunite. Same-

sex couples and families faced separation or deportation

because of the U.S. immigration laws, before the Supreme

Court decision United States v. Windsor, that declared

Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act as unconstitutional.

Prior to the decision, I was a pioneer in fighting for

comprehensive immigration reform that included the

recognition of same-sex binational couples and their families

in the United States.

AsVice Chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality

Caucus, I successfully led an effort to urge the Department of

Homeland Security to provide written policy recognizing

LGBT partnerships as family relationships when exercising

prosecutorial discretion in removal proceedings. As the

Immigration Taskforce Chair of the Congressional

Asian Pacific American Caucus, I continue to work with

Senate and House leadership, the Administration, the

Congressional Hispanic, Black and Progressive Caucuses, to

ensure that allfamilies remain

the cornerstone of

our immigration

system, and to

champion

immigration

reform that

strengthens oureconomy and supports the labor needs of U.S. businesses and

Silicon Valley.

Safeguarding the American Dream

I have been a leading champion for DREAM students. In

2010, as a member of the DREAM Whip Group, a group

composed of key congressional immigration figures, I haveworked steadfastly with my colleagues, Congressional

leadership, CAPAC Members, and the Administration to

ensure passage of the Development, Relief and Education for

Alien Minors (DREAM) Act in the House. Despite challenges,

I continue to advocate on behalf of DREAM students. I have

23

d h d h l bl h h ll d f


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urged the Administration to ensure that DREAM-eligible

students and other low-priority individuals are not deported.

I also support President Obamas leadership and compassion

in implementing Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

(DACA), which shields over a million young immigrants from

deportation. This landmark decision was a clarion call to

Congress to rise and do its part to make the dreams of the

young, hardworking, and high-achieving DREAM students a

reality.

Working with President Obama

I have continued to lobby the Obama Administration on

immigration, meeting with President Obama, Leader Pelosi

and Valerie Jarrett, Senior Advisor to the President. I

continue to put pressure on Speaker Boehner to bring the

immigration bill to the floor, and I have participated in

immigration rallies on the National Mall, supported the Fast 4

Families Movement, and written multiple Op-Eds featured on

The Hill, The Huffington Post,Politico, andMercury Newsto

shed light on the important issues surrounding immigration

reform.

Protecting New Citizens

The immigrants pursuit of the American Dream ultimately

strengthens our nations social and economic fabric. That is

why, I have introduced the Strengthen and United

Communities through Civic Education and English Skills

(SUCCEED) Act, which will provide opportunities for new

Americans to gain the vital English skills needed to succeed

and contribute to our economy. This legislation will help our

economy remain competitive, protect our workers, and

incentivize immigrant integration through English and civics

education. As a senior Member of the Appropriations

Committee, I continue to fight to protect those programs,which positively and inclusively support new citizens and

their integration, while holding accountable those programs

that threaten our civil rights and justice.

24

Mike speaks on the House Floor aboutCitizenship Day


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Reform | Creating an Open, Efficient & Responsive Government

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LEGISLATION | REFORM


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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Digital Accountability and

Transparancy Act (H.R.

2061)

2. Constitutional

Amendment to overturn

Citizens United (H.J.Res.

34)

3. Streamlined and

Improved Methods at

Polling Locations and

Early (SIMPLE) Voting

Act (H.R.50)

4. Disclosure of Information

on Spending on

Campaigns Leads to Open

and Secure Elections

(DISCLOSE) Act

(H.R.148)

I believe transparency and integrity are essential elements forCongress. I supported legislation to overhaul Congressional ethics and

prevent insider trading by Members of Congress. When the countrys

economy entered a recession, I voted against cost-of-living allowances

(COLA) for Members of Congress. When the House Republicans

funded a law firm to support the unconstitutional Defense of Marriage

Act (DOMA) before the U.S. Supreme Court, I fought against the use of

taxpayer dollars to defend the discriminatory lawI don't believe in

using taxpayer dollars to defend ideological and unconstitutional laws.

Opening Government, Increasing Transparency

As a member of the Congressional Transparency Caucus, I

cosponsored the Digital Accountability and Transparency Act (DATA)

bipartisan legislation that standardizes and publishes the U.S.

government's wide variety of reports and data compilations related to

financial management, procurement, and assistance. The DATA Actwill create better transparency for taxpayers and citizens; improve

federal management by illuminating waste and fraud; and reduce

compliance costs by automating the creation of reports by grantees

and contractors. One of only ten cosponsors, I helped pass this

legislation through the House, 388-1. As an appropriator from Silicon

26

LEGISLATION |REFORM

Transforming Government 3.0

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Valley I fought for legislation to standardize government data I am the only member to have won an award in all Gold


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Valley, I fought for legislation to standardize government data

into application programming interfaces (APIs) so civil

society can create innovative applications and websites for the

public. I have testified before the powerful House

Administration Committee about how Congress can do its

business better, and Ive pushed for Congress to centralize its

computing resources to increase efficiency and harness thepower of cloud computing.

Closing the Digital Divide

Through my leadership on a bipartisan committee, the

Working Group for a Working Congress, hosted by the

National Institute for Civil Discourse, I am helping identify

ways to create incentives for constructive engagement and

improvements to the political environment. Increasing sound

policy advice is critical for Congress, too. To that end, I have

cosponsored legislation to reestablish the Office of

Technology Assessment, an organization of STEM policy

advisors for Congress defunded in the late 90s. I know that

Congress needs sound policy advice from technologists and

scientists.

Washington, Meet Silicon Valley

Pioneering new technologies for Congress, I have

implemented the same policies for which Ive publicly

supported. In 2009, and again in 2013, I was the first

congressman to use crowdsourcing to design of my website

leading to numerous awards.

I am the only member to have won an award in all Gold

Mouse competitions hosted by the Congressional

Management Foundation, since it first began in 2001. I

created the New Media Caucus to encourage and improve the

dialogue with constituents, and, just this year, hosted

telephone town halls and Twitter Crowdhalls.

Fighting Special Interests

Having learned the lessons of the 2000 Presidential Election,

I have led by strengthening Americas elections while

protecting voting rights. I supported legislation to create a

federal holiday for Election Day, offer no-excuse vote-by-mail

to all states, and reform overseas voting procedures for

members of the armed services and overseas citizens.

A tireless advocate for clean elections, I have cosponsored the

DISCLOSE Act and the Fair Elections Now Act, which would

have created public financing for elections and shed light on

corrosive influence of special interests. Responding to the

Roberts Court, I supported a constitutional amendment to

overturn Citizens Unitedand declare that corporations are not

people. I believes transparency and integrity are essential

elements for Congress. I supported legislation to overhaul

Congressional ethics and prevent insider trading by Members

of Congress. When the countrys economy entered a recession,

I voted against cost-of-living allowances (COLA) for Members

of Congress.

27

Embracing New Technologies Live Tweeting Congress


29/43

Embracing New Technologies

I hosted my first Crowdhall, an online town hall that lets me

host conversations with my constituents on a variety of topics.

I also had the opportunity to make extensive use of Google

Hangouts, both on air and privately, to stay in touch with

stakeholders onimportant issues facing

the district and our

nation. Finally, I

launched my Google Plus

page, to provide another forum to inform my constituents and

hear from them on the issues they care about most.

Reaching OutThrough newsletters, powering invite lists with Eventbrite,

and monthly surveys, I have had a record-breaking year in

constituent contact. And I havent stopped at the email inbox.

With regular updates on Facebook, Google Plus, and Twitter, I

am making it easier than ever for my constituents to learn

about my activities in Washington and

Silicon Valley. To continue connectingwith my constituents, I recently

launched Silicon Valley Through Your

Eyes, a social media photo contest

that provides a fun way for people to share what Santa Clara

and Alameda Counties means to them.

Live-Tweeting Congress

Taking part in regular Twitter town halls, hosting telephone

town halls for nearly 100,000 residents of Santa Clara and

Alameda Counties, and streaming

panel discussions like my

Excellence and Equity town hall, Iam not just informing my

constituents of my work I am

engaging them. I believe that

people expect transparency and

responsiveness from their

representatives in Washington, and

I am doing my best to have those conversations. I have been

overwhelmed by the responses to my social media posts abouta wide variety of topics, and carry those opinions with me to

Congress.

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LEGISLATION | FAMILIES


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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Passed Violence

Against Women Act of

2013

2. Start Strong for

Americas Children Act

(H.R.3461)

3. Declaring October as

National Anti-Bullying

Month (H.Res.398)

4. Employment Non-

Discrimination Act

(ENDA) (H.R.1755)

5. Paycheck Fairness Act

(H.R.377)

6. Fair Minimum Wage

Act (H.R.1010)

Preventing Violence Against WomenI ardently fought to end the cycle of violence by

supporting the reauthorization of the Violence

Against Women Act, which includes updated

protections for Native American women,

immigrant women, and provides specialized

support and resources for LGBT, religious and

ethnic communities.

Working Against Bullying

From our classrooms to the workplace to even our homes, bullying

affects people of every age, income level, ethnicity, and sexual

orientation in this country. As the founder of the Congressional

Anti-Bullying Caucus, it is my sincere hope that we use October as a

month to raise awareness of how to combat bullying and to supporteach person's right to be who he or she is without being shamed,

judged, or attacked.

A student is bullied on the playground every seven minutes in

America, and each year 3 million kids are absent from school because

they are afraid of being bullied.In a disturbing and growing trend,30

LEGISLATION |FAMILIES

Towards a More Inclusive Society

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recent studies show that 42% funding for background checks and licensing, and supporting


32/43

4

of children have been bullied

online. My resolution had 46

co-sponsors from both

parties. The CongressionalAnti-Bullying Caucus, which I

founded in 2012, boasts abipartisan membership of 58

members and growing.

Raising the Minimum Wage

Even in the Silicon Valley, where so many of our jobs are high

paying, we have seen the inequality in income grow in recent

years, even the cost to cover just basic needs has grown. I

believe that jobs in our economy should pay a livable wage,

and I am proud to be an original cosponsor of the Fair

Minimum Wage Act (H.R. 1010), which proposes a variety of

approaches to increasing the minimum wage to ensure that

workers can afford live and participate in our economic

growth.

Supporting Gun Safety

For my entire career, I have fiercely fought to enact common

sense gun safety reform laws. As a Senior member of the

Commerce Justice Science (CJS) Appropriations

subcommittee, I have been a leader in supporting the rights

of law enforcement agencies to track guns, pushing for a

renewed, tighter assault weapons ban, urging increased

g g g, pp g

solutions focused on mental health, and regular Americans

rather than special interests. Just this year, I participated in

three gun buyback events, resulting in thousands of firearms

being taken off our streets.

Fighting Discrimination against LGBTQI have repeatedly supported congressional efforts to pass the

Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA). I am an proud

original cosponsor of H.R.1755 which would prevent

employers from discriminating

against workers on the basis

of sexual orientation or

perceived sexual orientation.

In addition to co-sponsoring

the bill every session it has

been introduced since I

entered Congress, I have also

served on the ENDA WHIP

team. I have worked closely

with the Transgender

community to push back on discriminatory pilot licensing

requirements placed on Transgender pilots--working directly

with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the White

House, and stakeholder groups to put an end to this policy. I

wrote a public multi-member letter on the same topic.

31

Mike, an alumnus, inside San Jose High, May

13, 2013. (Josie Lepe, Bay Area News Group)


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Health Care | Ensuring Coverage for All Americans

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LEGISLATION |HEALTH CARE


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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Health Innovation and

Marketplace

Technologies Act (H.R.

2363)

2. Fought for over $34

million in funding forDepartment of Viral

Hepatitis, Center for

Disease Control

3. Requested that the

Center for Disease

Control review its

tuberculosis funding

4. Viral Hepatitis Testing

Act (H.R.3381)

Eradicating Viral HepatitisI reorganized the Congressional Hepatitis Caucus in 2013, which is a

bipartisan group of Members of Congress committed to the eradication

of viral hepatitis diseases through education, advocacy and legislation.

I supported a World Hepatitis Day event at the White House where Dr.

Howard Koh of the Department of Health and Human Services

announced the departments renewed commitment to the Viral

Hepatitis interagency report and their plan to eradicate hepatitis.Additionally, asco-chair of the Congressional Hepatitis Caucus

I sponsored several briefings and a testing event at the Capitol for

Members of Congress and their staff to get screened, and learn about

the importance of screening as part of eradication. I am currently

working with my fellow co-chairs on key legislation to provide

additional federal funding for new programs for hepatitis screening,

testing and education. I also serve as an honorary board member for

both the Hepatitis B Free Santa Clara County and San Francisco.

Focusing on Minority Health

As Chair Emeritus of the Congressional Asian Pacific

American Caucus (CAPAC), I have been working closely with my

33

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Environment & Transportation | Sustainable Growth

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LEGISLATION |ENVIRONMENT &TRANSPORTATION


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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. End Polluter Welfare Act

(H.R.3574)

2. Grants for Renewable

Energy Education for the

Nation (GREEN) Act

(H.R.2368)

3. Super Pollutant

Emissions Reduction Act

(H.R.1943)

4. Fracturing Responsibility

and Awareness of

Chemicals (FRAC) Act

(H.R.1921)

5. Closing Loopholes and

Ending Arbitrary and

Needless Evasion of

Regulations (CLEANER)

Act (H.R.2825)

As a former science teacher, I believe that energy policies shape thehealth of our economy and quality of life. Ive helped establish the

U.S. House of Representatives Sustainable Energy and Environment

Coalition (SEEC). Through my work at SEEC, I am working to ensure

that Congress addresses climate change while creating clean energy

jobs.

Preserving Open Spaces

This year we celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Mid-peninsula

Regional Open Space District and the 20thanniversary of the SantaClara County Open Space Authority. Together, they now protect more

than 78,000 acres in two counties. I am proud to have created the

Santa Clara County Open Space Authority and to have worked with the

Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) to enable public

access to Mt. Umunhum, home of the former Almaden Air Force

Station site.

Supporting Green Energy and Efficiency

Using less energy and green energy is good for the environment and

for the economy, which is why I cosponsored two important pieces of

36

Conserving for Future Generations

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legislation, the End Polluter Welfare Act, which stops tax cuts

f h f il f l i d d h GREEN A hi hA Voice for Action on Climate Change


38/43

for the fossil fuel industry and the GREEN Act, which

supports grants for training workers for clean energy systems.

I have also been continuing my work to try to improve the

energy efficiency of consumer electronics by using my

position on the House Appropriations Committee to including

language in the Fiscal Year 2014 Energy and Water

Appropriations Act to examine and educate the public about

the benefits of smart electronics.

Throughout the year, I

have stood in support of

President Obamas plan to

fight climate change, and

have been outspokenadvocate of the need to act

now on climate because of

the changes we are already seeing around the world, and have

opposed efforts to expand the use of greenhouse gas emitting

fossil fuels such as the Keystone XL pipeline.

Delivering Transportation Solutions

This year, the Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International

Airport received more than $3 million in federal funding for

runway-related construction and improvements that are vital

to the economic growth of Silicon Valley. As a member of

the House Appropriations Committee, I was proud to

help deliver this funding, as well as funding for continued

construction of the BART extension to Silicon Valley in 2014.

I am also working to support innovative transit solutions, andI included language in the Fiscal Year 2014 Transportation,

Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Act

encouraging the Federal Transit Administration to

demonstrate the proof of concept for emerging transit

technologies such as personal rapid transit.

37

A New Look at Climate Change

By Michael Honda and Michael Shank

December 9th, 2013. Reuters.

The annual United Nations climate change talks, which

concluded last month in Warsaw, unfortunately found little

common ground on carbon. The talks broke down over the

worlds richest nations inability to agree with the poorest on

how to address the financial costs of global climate change.

While disappointing, its not surprising. Developed countries

like the United States and the nations of the European Union,

which have wielded the largest carbon footprints over the

past decades, are not as often the victims of climate-related

disasters. In fact, the countries facing the most severe effects

of climate change are often the poorest and most under-

developed. They are forced to confront not only natural

destruction but economic ruin.


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Foreign Affairs | Respecting an International Community

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LEGISLATION |FOREIGNAFFAIRS


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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. Women, Peace &

Security Act of 2013

(H.R. 2874)

2. Relief for Victims of

Typhoon Haiyan

(H.Res.408)3. Fought for release and

return of Vietnamese-

American student

from Vietnamese

government

4. Led on letter to

President Obama

asking to reconsider

military action in Syria

Women, Peace & SecurityAs a former Peace Corps volunteer and former Chairman of the

Congressional Progressive Caucus Peace & Security

Taskforce, I know firsthand how critical women's perspectives and

empowerment are to achieving a more peaceful world. That is why I

worked with Senator Boxer and my colleagues Reps. Jan Schakowsky

and Eddie Bernice Johnson to introduce the Women, Peace & Security

Act of 2013 (H.R. 2874) to ensure the full implementation of the U.S.National Action Plan on Women, Peace & Security by building in a role

for Congressional oversight.

Providing Relief in the Philippines

Immediately since the impact of the calamitous Typhoon Haiyan

which hit the Philippines, I have been wholly engaged with

humanitarian response and recovery efforts. I introduced H.Res.408

along with Rep. Speier to express condolences and support for

assistance to the victims of the typhoon; hosted a Google Hangout

briefing with USAID officials and key Filipino-American leaders to

discuss the U.S. humanitarian assistance; and urged Secretaries Kerry

39

Towards a More Inclusive Society

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and Hagel and Administrator Shah to incorporate specialized

protections for women and girls in the wake of the typhoon

live and speak freely, whether that be though improved

diplomatic efforts increased funding for international aid or


41/43

protections for women and girls in the wake of the typhoon.

Avoiding Intervention

I was pleased by President Obamas response to Rep. Barbara

Lee and my request, along with a number of our colleagues, to

give Congress the opportunity to fully debate any involvement

in Syria and seek authorization for any military action. The

Syrian crisis requires a long term diplomatic commitment and

broad international support.

Supporting Constituents Abroad

In December, I welcomed the return of Vietnamese-American

college student Anna at San Francisco International Airport.An American citizen and undergrad at UC Davis, Anna had

been studying abroad in Vietnam since August, but was

prevented from returning to the U.S. at Tan Son Nhat Airport

in Ho Chi Minh City when local authorities accused her of

affiliating with pro-democracy causes.

She had been held and interrogated by Vietnamese

immigration officers for nearly a week before finally beingallowed to return home to the Bay Area. Some of the key

freedoms Americans enjoy in this country are the freedoms of

speech and assembly. The fact that Anna was detained on

suspicion of disagreeing with the Vietnamese government

shines a light on the country's troubling overall human rights

record. I will continue to fight for the rights of all people to

diplomatic efforts, increased funding for international aid, or

a comprehensive immigration policy that welcomes those in

desperate need of political asylum.

When Annas situation was first brought to my attention my

staff immediately contacted State Department officials,

American Citizen Services, and the U.S. consulate in Ho ChihMinh City to vigorously advocate for her release, as well as

support and reassure Anna. Alongside my colleagues in

Congress, as a member Congressional Caucus on

Vietnam, I continuously raised concerns to the Obama

Administration about human rights abuses in Vietnam.

Key Recognitions

This year Im pleased to announce several recognitions from

prestigious organizations for my work in foreign affairs.

2013 JACL Congressional Award for Outstanding National

Leadership for Asian Pacific Islander Native Hawaiian

Americans;

Champion for Children for 2013 for supporting health,

educational outcomes, and well-being of children;

2013 Good Food Champion by the Food Policy Action, for

my unwavering record to fight domestic and international

hunger, and to support food safety and nutrition.

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HOW TO REACH ME AND MY STAFF

Connect21 44.95

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You can reach me or my staff at eitherof my San Jose or Washington offices,

at office hours in Fremont and

Newark, along with a toll-free number.

In addition, you can call, write, email,

Tweet, post or walk in to any of my

offices.276

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CCupertino

17TH DISTRICT region. Languages other than English are spoken in nearly

half the households in the 17th District. Vast ripples of


43/43

ConnectCalifornia's 17th Congressional District is located in the

heart of Silicon Valley. The unique and enterprising region

draws residents from all around the globe. Many decades of

immigration have transformed the ethnic make up of the

half the households in the 17th District. Vast ripples of

technological advancement have distinguished the area's

vigorous economic history. The 17th District, once an agrarian

super power, is now a leader in many robust technological

fields.

As the only Asian-majority district in the continental UnitedStates, the 17th District is one of the most diverse in the

nation, leading the way for innovation and prosperity.

Alviso Cupertino Fremont Milpitas Newark San Jose Santa Clara Sunnyvale

Newark Mobile

Office

e Office

Fremont Mobile

Office

1 2 3

Office Locations

San Jose Office2001 Gateway PL , Suite 670W

San Jose, CA 95110(408) 436-2720

Washington, DC Office1713 Longworth House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515(202) 225-2631

Fremont Mobile Office11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. | 1st, 2nd, 3rd Friday every MonthFremont Main Library | 2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont

(855) 680-3579

Newark Mobile Office10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. | 4th Friday every Month

Newark Library | 6300 Civic Terrace Ave, Newark

(855) 680-3579

Honda.House.gov

Documents

2013 Year in Review by Rep. Mike Honda