Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (DE-SOWN-YAY) proudly represents California’s 11th Congressional District, which includes the majority of Contra Costa County. For more than 30 years in public service and as a small business owner, Mark has been a leader for working families. During his time in U.S. House, most of which Republicans were in charge, Mark passed more than 60 legislative efforts. He is an effective legislator who knows how to get things done.
Mark is one of only a few Members of Congress to serve on four committees. He currently sits on the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, the Committee on Education and Labor, where he serves as Chairman of Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), and the Committee on Oversight and Reform. He also is a Member of the House Committee on Rules, where he has the opportunity to weigh in on major pieces of legislation before they are brought to the House Floor and where he was chosen by his colleagues to serve as Vice Chair of the Committee. Mark is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
Congressman DeSaulnier recognizes climate change for the existential threat that it is and, beginning with his time as a member of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), he has been a proud champion of policies that promote sustainability, protect the environment, and mitigate the harmful effects of climate change. He is a firm believer that the challenges of climate change also present enormous opportunity and strong, forward-looking energy and environmental policy will be a key driver of growth, innovation, and competitiveness. While fueling economic growth, rigorous environmental protections will protect the health of all Californians.
By the Numbers
Practically 100% of the global warming witnessed over the past 150 years can be attributed to human activity.
If we do not cut carbon emissions in the next 30 years, rising sea levels, more extreme weather, and water and crop scarcity may cause as many as 143 million people to be displaced.
California had more than 512,000 jobs in clean energy in 2018, with Contra Costa in the state's top ten counties for clean energy jobs. In fact, 54% of all energy sector jobs in California are clean energy industries.
The number of zero-emission vehicles in California rose 30% from October 2017 to October 2018 and 33.4% between October 2018 and October 2019.
Rolling back current fuel economy standards, as the Trump Administration did, will cost the United States $450 billion by 2050.
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Member of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition and the Safe Climate Caucus
Earned a 100% on the League of Conservation Voters 2019 Scorecard
Led a coalition of 81 Democratic Members in introducing a resolution (H.Con.Res 65) to condemn the Trump Administration's rollback of fuel economy standards and of California's authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act
Crafted policies to assist with the implementation of the California Global Warming Solutions Act, the first program in the country to take a comprehensive approach to addressing climate change, as a California State Legislator
Working for You
Supporting Workers Transitioning Out of the Fossil Fuel Industry
Congressman DeSaulnier authored an effort that was included in the Clean Economy Jobs and Innovation Act (H.R. 4447) to bring community leaders, industry, environmental groups, and the workforce together to provide fossil fuel workers with meaningful support to ensure they are not left behind when the economy transitions away from fossil fuels. A grant like this would help Contra Costa better prepare for the impacts to the local workforce and economy from refinery closures.
Fighting Against the Climate Crisis
Three bills authored by Congressman DeSaulnier were included as part of the House Select Committee's Climate Crisis Action Plan. Those bills support environmentally friendly vehicles and technology, promote innovation in America's transportation systems, and improve transportation planning and decision making. The Climate Crisis Action Plan would put the country on a path to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, if not earlier; power economic recovery through clean energy investment and family-sustaining jobs; and address the legacy of environmental injustice harming America's low-income communities and communities of color.
Ensuring Protection of the Contra Costa Canal
Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the Contra Costa Canal Transfer Act which transfers the title of the Contra Costa Canal from the Federal Bureau of Reclamation to the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD), allowing the CCWD to invest in safety and environmental improvements to the canal's infrastructure. The legislation was signed into law as part of a bipartisan public lands and conservation package.
Expanding the John Muir National Historic Site
To improve access to parks and their scenic trails, Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the John Muir National Historic Site Expansion Act (H.R. 1289)—a bill that will allow the Martinez, California Park to add 44 acres of donated land to improve park access and preserve this land for generations to come.
Creating a Sustainable Federal Fleet of Vehicles
In 2018, the federal fleet inventory totaled 644,545 vehicles. Congressman DeSaulnier saw the federal fleet as an opportunity to fight climate change and protect public health, so he authored the Clean Federal Fleet Act (H.R. 5554), legislation that requires any vehicles purchased by the federal government to comply with the Obama-era low GHG emissions standards. Congressman DeSaulnier knows that now, more than ever, is the time to keep fighting for cleaner, more sustainable vehicles and to protect public health.
Congressman DeSaulnier understands that education is the single-most important investment a nation can make in its future. Throughout his career in public service, from his time as a local Head Start Commissioner to his current seat on the House Committee on Education and Labor, he has been an advocate for quality education for every student. From preschool to higher education and beyond, Congressman DeSaulnier values a public education, programs to support the "whole child," accessible and affordable college opportunities for any students that wishes to attend, and ensuring that all students gain the skills they need to succeed in our rapidly changing workplace.
By the Numbers
Children who attend preschool can better socialize, manage stress, solve problems, and have higher job earnings later in life.
51% of American public school students are living in poverty.
Outstanding student loan debt in the U.S. exceeds $1.3 trillion with African American college graduates owing $7,400 more in student loans on average than their white peers upon graduating.
7 million, or 14% of K-12 public school students receive special education services.
The U.S. has an 84.6% high school graduation rate, the highest in history.
Millennials are on track to be the most educated generation in history, with 39% receiving at least a bachelor's degree.
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Spearheaded Creation of Statewide Family Engagement Centers
Research shows that students with involved families are more likely to earn higher grades, attend school regularly, and graduate. Congressman DeSaulnier authored the bipartisan Family Engagement in Education Act (H.R. 1194) with Rep. Glenn ‘GT' Thompson (R-PA), to create the Statewide Family Engagement Center (SFEC) grant program, which helps states and school districts promote family involvement in a student's education. The SFEC grant program was signed into law by President Obama and recently received $15 million in federal funding.
Authored Legislation to Support Young Children with Disabilities
While there has been advancement in supports for students with disabilities in elementary and secondary school, early education policy, like support for preschool students, has not kept pace. That's why Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the Funding Early Childhood is the Right IDEA Act (H.R. 4107), which would restore full funding for education and services for children with disabilities age 0-5.
Sponsored the College Affordability Act
The cost of college is skyrocketing making the possibility of a higher education out of reach for huge swaths of American families. As the ability to go to college becomes increasingly dependent on an individual's socioeconomic status and higher lifetime earnings become evermore contingent on a college degree, income inequality and wealth disparities in our country only deepen. To address these troubling trends, Congressman DeSaulnier supports the College Affordability Act (H.R. 4674), which would strengthen the Higher Education Act of 1965 to lower the cost of college, hold colleges accountable for students' success and give a new generation of students the opportunity to graduate on time with the prospect of a successful career.
Leading Legislation to Protect Student Athletes from Concussions
To help protect younger athletes who are at greater risk from sports-related concussions than college or professional athletes, Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the Protecting Student Athletes from Concussions Act (H.R. 5611), which requires that schools support all students who have suffered concussions to return to sports and the classroom safely.
Protecting the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program
Together with Congressman Sarbanes and Senator Warren, Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the What You Can Do For Your Country Act (H.R. 2441) to protect the PSLF program. This program allows America's public servants to qualify for student loan debt relief after working full-time for 10 years at certain nonprofit organizations or for local, state, or federal government. Secretary DeVos's Education Department, however, has only granted loan forgiveness to about 1% of civil servants who qualify. This bill would ensure that they get the debt relief they deserve.
The United States is the gun violence capital of the world. Every day, there are more than 30 gun-related deaths. The common sense reforms we have made in California are working, and Congressman DeSaulnier is leading the way to bring them to the national level to make our families, schools, and communities safer while adhering to the Second Amendment.
By the Numbers
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Working for You
Authored Bill to Address Gun Violence with Evidence-Based Solutions
Gun violence is a public health epidemic. To remove politics from the conversation and focus on proven solutions, Congressman DeSaulnier authored the Gun Safety Board and Research Act (H.R. 4177). The bill would create a Gun Safety Board to conduct research, make policy recommendations, and evaluate proposals aimed at reducing gun violence.
Support Bipartisan Background Checks Bill
A recent poll confirms that 97% of Americans agree that background checks need to be strengthened. Congressman DeSaulnier is a supporter of the Bipartisan Background Checks Act (H.R. 8), which creates universal background checks, which would make our homes and neighborhoods safer.
Authored Bill to Protect Against Gun Theft
Concerning reports of crimes being committed with guns stolen from federal law enforcement officers led to Congressman DeSaulnier introducing the Federal Law Enforcement and Public Protection Act (H.R. 3420), which bolsters requirements for officers to safely store and lock their weapons and requires federal law enforcement agencies to transparently report to appropriate agencies when their guns are lost or stolen.
Promote Smart Guns
As a continuation of his work in the California state legislature, Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the Modernizing Firearm Technology Act (H.R. 6080), which promotes the creation of smart gun technology in an effort to decrease the number of tragic accidental shootings and suicides.
Our national security is among Congressman DeSaulnier's top priorities and he believes that the men and women who bravely and selflessly sign up to keep our country safe deserve our utmost respect and gratitude, which should include quality health care and a VA that works for them, education and job training, transition programs, and mental health services.
By the Numbers
At least $125 billion in wasteful spending buried by senior Department of Defense officials.
The defense budget increased in 2020 by another $30 billion, bringing total defense spending to a whopping $738 billion.
Veterans are 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide and 50% more like to become homeless compared to the general population, while 1/10 veterans lack health insurance.
Cyber attacks, an increasing trend our defense systems must protect against, is estimated to amass $6 trillion in damages annually by 2021.
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Demanding Department of Defense Accountability:
In 2006, it was discovered that $8.5 trillion given to the Department of Defense (DoD) since 1996 was unaccounted for and in 2016, it was discovered that the Department attempted to bury results of a study they commissioned identifying $125 billion in wasteful spending. The DoD has since conducted its first-ever agency-wide financial audit, but a full analysis still must be done to identify wasteful programs. To encourage accountability, Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the Department of Defense Waste Reduction Act (H.R. 2367) to prevent DoD from receiving any additional funding until wasteful spending practices within the Department are addressed.
Protecting Veterans' Benefits:
For years the VA has been withholding disability payments from veterans who received separation pay when leaving the military. To stop this injustice, Congressman DeSaulnier joined Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) in authoring the Restore Veterans' Compensation Act (H.R. 6027), which would prevent the VA from withholding disability pay in order to recoup separation payments made to veterans.
Keeping the Administration Accountable:
In an ever-changing security landscape, it is imperative that we follow the checks and balances laid out in the Constitution for our nation's leaders. To have faith in that system, Congressman DeSaulnier supports the Restricting First Use of Nuclear Weapons Act (H.R. 669) and voted in favor of a resolution requiring the President to consult Congress before engaging in hostilities with Iran (H.Con. Res. 83).
In the wealthiest country in the world, no American should go without access to quality, affordable health insurance and health care. This is especially true during the coronavirus pandemic, which has further revealed a broken system that leaves almost 30 million Americans uninsured. To address the inadequacy of our health care system, Congressman DeSaulnier has been an ardent supporter of protecting, strengthening, and expanding the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In addition to fighting for a more equitable health care system that prioritizes people over profits, Congressman DeSaulnier strongly supports investing in research and innovation in new treatments and cures, addressing prescription drug affordability and health disparities, and improving the availability of and access to mental health care for all Americans.
By the Numbers
As of October 2020, the United States accounted for just 4% of the world's population, but 21% of coronavirus cases and 20% of coronavirus deaths.
There have been at least 70 Republican-led efforts to repeal or limit the ACA, which would cost 23 million Americans their health insurance.
In 2019, 3 in 10 uninsured adults went without needed medical care due to cost.
50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14.
38.9% of high school students have used an e-cigarette in the last 30 days.
15.5 million Americans are living with cancer today.
Things to Know
Survivor of Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
Founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Cancer Survivors Caucus
Strong supporter of efforts to curb the youth tobacco epidemic
Member of the Mental Health Caucus
Working for You
Addressing the Coronavirus Pandemic
As the coronavirus pandemic continues to impact nearly every aspect of our lives and has shone a light on severe health disparities in the U.S., Congressman DeSaulnier is working to help protect our communities and the front-line workers keeping us safe. That is why Congressman DeSaulnier voted in favor of coronavirus relief funding to pay frontline health workers, fund coronavirus testing and contact tracing, and provide free treatment for coronavirus for all. Congressman DeSaulnier continues to work with his colleagues to address the coronavirus pandemic and prioritize critical health care services to support underserved communities and urge investment in long-term solutions to prevent and mitigate future public health crises. You can find more resources on our coronavirus page.
Congressional Cancer Survivors Caucus
As a survivor of the most common leukemia in the world, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), Congressman DeSaulnier founded the Congressional Cancer Survivors Caucus and runs it with his colleague Congressman Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (R-GA). The Caucus is an open forum that has hosted leaders in the cancer field such as the President of the Biden Cancer Initiative and former Executive Director of the President's Cancer Moonshot, Greg Simon, and the Director of the National Cancer Institute, Dr. Ned Sharpless.
Combatting the Vaping Epidemic
In 2018, over 3.6 million people under 18 used e-cigarettes, including 37% of high school seniors. This increase in the use of vaping products is undoing decades of progress made in reducing teen tobacco usage. That is why Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the Preventing Vape Use Act (H.R. 5005), which would ban the sale of any vape device that has not been approved by the FDA.
Improving Access to Mental Health Care for Children and Families
Millions of Americans are impacted by mental illness every year, particularly children. Unfortunately, the earliest most mental health programming in the United States begins is once a child enters elementary school. We know that the younger mental health interventions begin, the less likely it will be that the person develops lifelong negative impacts. That is why Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the Early Childhood Mental Health Support Act (H.R. 5569), which would provide funding to Head Start and early childhood education centers to provide mental health care and support for impacted children and families.
Increase Access to Cancer Treatment Planning and Patient Navigators
Cancer treatment plans, which outline the steps that a patient will go through in treating their illness, improve outcomes and allow patients to actively participate in their own care. Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the Cancer Care Planning and Communications Act (H.R. 5160) to encourage more doctors to use these treatment plans.
The need to expand housing and provide more affordable options in the San Francisco Bay Area could not be clearer. With some workers enduring two-hour commutes to get from homes in the Central Valley to jobs in Silicon Valley and others looking elsewhere to start their businesses or raise their families, the housing crisis presents a serious threat to our region's quality of life. Furthermore, the homeless crisis in the Bay Area ranks among the worst in the U.S. and the economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic have left millions more Americans at risk of eviction and losing their homes.
By the Numbers
There are over 92,091 people experiencing homelessness in the United States.
In 2019, a $172,000 income was needed to buy a typical home in the San Francisco metro area.
In 2019, the average rent in many Bay Area cities was more than $2,500.
Approximately half of Bay Area renters pay more than 30 percent of their income on housing costs.
To afford a one-bedroom rental unit in Contra Costa County making minimum wage, a person would need to work 109 hours per week.
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Working for You
Promoting Innovative Approaches to Housing Needs
New housing is urgently needed around the country, especially in California. To help states and local governments develop and fund innovative solutions, Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the Housing Innovation Act (H.R. 4756), which would create an Office of Housing Innovation at the Department of Housing and Urban Development to explore and fund innovative approaches to increase and diversify housing supply.
Encouraging Transit Oriented Development
As the high cost of living in the Bay Area has pushed families farther from their workplaces, new housing options near public transit hubs have become critical. To address this need, Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the Equitable Transit Oriented Development Support Act (H.R. 5783), which makes loans available for building affordable housing and developments in underserved areas, particularly near public transportation.
Defending Critical Housing Programs from Cuts
Congressman DeSaulnier sponsored and passed an effort to maintain funding for nonprofits to assist in building affordable housing across the country (Section 4). This program has been instrumental in building and preserving more than 41,000 affordable homes for low-income households since 2010.
Fought to Keep Millions of Americans in their Homes
Through no fault of their own, millions of Americans, left unemployed during the coronavirus pandemic, have been left unable to make rent or keep up with their mortgage payments. To keep millions of Americans from losing their homes, Congressman DeSaulnier joined an effort to urge the CDC to extend its temporary order protecting tenants against eviction
During a time of record-breaking income inequality and runaway corporate greed, restoring the balance of power in favor of the American worker is imperative. America's workforce is one of the best, most productive labor forces in the world. As a member of the House Committee on Education and Labor and a former small business owner, however, Congressman DeSaulnier has seen firsthand that workers are being taken advantage of by big business. As we grapple with the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic, Congressman DeSaulnier is committed to promoting policies that advance all workers and prepare them for the jobs of the future, provide support for owners of small businesses, and support our economy.
By the Numbers
Since 1973, wages have risen 10%, but productivity has increased by almost 74%.
Union members have 20% higher wages, more paid leave, are 28% more likely to have employer-sponsored health insurance, and have better access to pensions than their non-union counterparts.
Income inequality is at its highest point since before the start of the Great Depression.
Small business revenues dropped by 52% due to the pandemic, with nearly 100,000 establishments permanently closing
Things to Know
Working for You
Fighting to Return Power to Workers
Businesses are important economic drivers for our local communities – they provide jobs, contribute to the local tax base, and help create local supply chains – but they should not be treated with impunity. They need to take responsibility for the role they play in the lives of their workers and the local economy. Congressman DeSaulnier authored the Justice for Dislocated Workers Act (H.R. 8583), which would require corporations voluntarily closing or laying off workers to confront the real cost of their closure or relocation. If a corporation still chooses to leave or close, it would be required to pay into a fund to help financially support people who will lose their jobs and other businesses that may be affected by the closure.
Future of Work, Wages, and Labor
After launching the Future of Work, Wages, and Labor effort in March 2016, Congressman DeSaulnier and his partners in the initiative traveled more than 4,700 miles and held 9 public meetings; hosted town halls with over 250 local workers; consulted over 100 experts and academics; and ultimately developed over 30 policy recommendations. The result is a comprehensive guide to protecting workers in the jobs of today and preparing for the jobs of tomorrow.
Combating Inequality
Inequality within our society disadvantages low-income Americans both in and out of the workplace. To help address this issue, Congressman DeSaulnier introduced the CEO Accountability and Responsibility Act (H.R. 3633), which incentivizes companies to improve CEO-to-worker pay ratios.
Supporting Working Families
Congressman DeSaulnier sponsors several bills that help working families support their families financially and personally. Some of these measures incentivize access to child care, provide for more flexible and advanced schedules, and establish a minimum amount of family and sick leave.
Americans deserve an efficient and effective government that meets the needs of hardworking families, now and into the future. As a Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform Committee (COR) Congressman DeSaulnier strives to rebuild public trust in government through transparency, accountability, and a higher-level of customer service as well as to hold private industry accountable to consumers.
By the Numbers
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Winner of the 2019 non-partisan Democracy Awards for Transparency and Accountability.
Long-time advocate of policies that reduce the public health impacts of tobacco products, most recently sponsoring legislation to hold e-cigarette companies accountable for their role in the youth vaping crisis and halt the sale of these products until the FDA certifies their safety.
Supported the For the People Act (H.R. 1), which would shore up state and local election security, expand the ban on foreign spending on U.S. elections, and establish stricter campaign finance reporting requirements.
Working for You
Fighting Against Trump Administration Ethics Violations
From the day he was sworn into office, President Trump violated the Emoluments Clause of the Constitution. Congressman DeSaulnier has been an active voice in explaining why that is dangerous for the American people. While the President may have been acquitted in the Senate impeachment trial, the House's work to hold his Administration accountable is far from over.
Protecting Election Security
After the concerns raised by Russian cyberattacks in the 2016 Presidential election, Congressman DeSaulnier has worked diligently with his colleagues on COR to address the national security implications of foreign intervention in our elections. Due to his work with like-minded colleagues on this topic, COR has held several hearings to promote transparency and security of our election systems moving forward and experts have said that the 2020 elections were the most secure in our nation's history.
Improving United States Postal Service
The Trump Administration's efforts to undermine the Postal Service have threatened the livelihoods and voting rights of millions of Americans. Congressman DeSaulnier joined his colleagues on COR to demand answers and hold Postmaster General DeJoy to account for the operational changes he implemented to the Postal Service that delayed mail and disenfranchised American voters. Congressman DeSaulnier is a proud sponsor of the Delivering for America Act (H.R. 8015), which would reverse the recent changes that resulted in delayed deliveries and infuse the U.S. Postal Service with $25 billion.
Holding Big Pharma Accountable for their Role in the Opioid Epidemic
Since his time in the California State Legislature, Congressman DeSaulnier has been leading the charge to hold Purdue Pharma and their owners, the Sackler family, accountable for fueling the opioid epidemic by knowingly misleading the public about the dangers of their drug, OxyContin. Their callousness and greed has led to countless deaths and Congressman DeSaulnier is committed to bringing them to justice through his work on the Oversight Committee.
Social Security and Medicare represent our promise to seniors of a secure retirement, and Congressman DeSaulnier is committed to protecting these programs. As all 73 million baby boomers approach retirement age by 2030, he is focused on making sure we provide every retiree with the financial security they deserve. Congressman DeSaulnier has been a strong advocate for the protection of safety net programs throughout his time in government service and continues to be a champion for seniors in Congress.
By the Numbers
44 million Americans are covered by Medicare.
9 million disabled Americans rely on Medicare to live healthy lives.
Nearly nine out of ten individuals age 65 and older receive Social Security benefits.
Social Security benefits represent about 33% of the income of elderly Americans.
Things to Know
Opposed Republican efforts to make cuts to the Medicare program
Hosts open forums to discuss ways Congress can protect and expand Social Security benefits
Supports legislation to provide all Americans with Medicare coverage
Sponsors legislation to ensure Medicare coverage for eyeglasses, hearing aids, and dental care
Working for You
Making Social Security Work for You
In order to ensure that the benefits owed to seniors are enough to cover basic living expenses, Congressman DeSaulnier is a strong supporter of the Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 141), which increases benefits across the board and sets a reasonable standard for future cost-of-living adjustments. This bill also eliminates the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), two unfair provisions that punish Americans who have devoted much or all of their careers to public service.
Working to Keep Prescription Drug Costs Affordable
To help control prescription drug costs in Medicare, Congressman DeSaulnier supported the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act (H.R. 3), which establishes a fair price negotiation program, protects the Medicare program from excessive price increases, and establishes an out-of-pocket maximum for Medicare part D enrollees.
Supports Expanding Medicare
The United States currently spends nearly 18% of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on health care costs. Every other industrialized country in the world has some form of universal, single-payer health system. Each system is different, but countries have adopted models that works best for their citizens. Congressman DeSaulnier believes that we should follow the example set in Contra Costa at the national level to enable all people to have comprehensive, affordable care. To work toward that goal, he supports the Medicare for All Act (H.R. 1384).
As the former Chairman of the California State Assembly and Senate transportation committees, and current member of the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I), Congressman DeSaulnier knows firsthand how important clean, safe, reliable, and efficient transportation systems are to a dynamic and innovative California economy. He is fighting for the federal investments needed to reduce traffic congestion and improve commutes in the Bay Area; for better planning that engages with the business community and incorporates innovative ideas and technologies to improve mobility; and for a connected and sustainable transportation system.
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Working for You
Improving Transportation Safety and Efficiency
Ten measures authored by Congressman DeSaulnier were included in the $1.5 trillion infrastructure package, known as the Moving Forward Act (H.R. 2), that passed the U.S. House of Representatives. His efforts support and encourage thoughtful, effective transportation planning; provide strong oversight of our federal investments; and combat climate change through transportation infrastructure. Overall, H.R. 2 seeks to fund new, transformative projects that will create millions of jobs; reduce carbon pollution; dramatically improve safety; improve school, hospital, and airport infrastructure; and spur economic activity.
Connecting and Improving the Transportation System
Improving the nation's roadways, rails, and public transportation systems is one of Congressman DeSaulnier's top priorities. By creating a world-class, interconnected, reliable, safe, and efficient public transportation system, we can take more cars off the road, reduce traffic congestion, and help fight climate change. He introduced the Incentivizing Value Capture for Greener Transportation Act (H.R. 5641) to do just that. The legislation would help states and localities better invest in their public transportation systems so we don't have to rely as heavily on vehicles, which contribute to climate change by emitting GHG emissions and which create gridlocked traffic congestion.
Fighting for Critical Research Funding to Relieve Congestion
Congressman DeSaulnier led the effort to secure an additional $15 million for the University Transportation Centers (UTC) program, a collaborative program that supports academic research to develop innovative solutions to transportation challenges such as traffic congestion.
Prioritizing Aviation & Highway Safety
In response to a series of close call incidents involving airplanes nearly landing on the wrong runway or taxiway, as well as a recent increase in runway incidents at airports, Congressman DeSaulnier —in collaboration with Captain "Sully" Sullenberger—introduced the Safe Landings Act (H.R. 4166) to further enhance aviation safety and to ensure our aviation system remains the safest in the world. In addition to aviation safety, Congressman DeSaulnier joined colleagues in introducing bipartisan legislation requiring large trucks to be equipped with underride guards to prevent hundreds of highway fatalities each year.
Promoting New Technologies
Congressman DeSaulnier authored the Truck Technology Parity Act (H.R. 4421), a bipartisan bill to help trucks powered entirely by battery electric technology to compete alongside traditional diesel trucks. He also introduced the Clean Corridors Act (H.R. 2616), directing $3 billion in federal funding over the next decade to construct and install battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicle charging infrastructure.
Since its founding, the United States has stood as a beacon of freedom and a land of opportunity. The ancestors of every American citizen, barring those of Native American descent, came to this country in search of a better life for themselves and their families. Since then, immigrants have remained a vital part of our communities and strengthened our economy in California and across the nation. While Congressman DeSaulnier agrees that reforms to our immigration system are needed, he does not accept the scapegoating, fearmongering, and xenophobia that has characterized the Trump Administration and precluded meaningful progress on the issue. Congressman DeSaulnier believes that the greatest nation in the history of humankind is capable of ensuring the well-being of its own citizens while simultaneously extending its arms to asylum-seekers, refugees, and immigrants seeking a better life.
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Working for You
Led Effort to #SaveIsabel
Isabel Bueso came to the United States with her family legally from Guatemala to receive treatment for a rare genetic condition. Her participation in medical trials helped identify an effective, life-saving treatment, which the drug manufacturer says Isabel cannot receive in her home country of Guatemala. In 2019, the Trump Administration arbitrarily canceled deferred action, creating fear and anxiety for Isabel and others in similar situations that they would be deported. Congressman DeSaulnier led the effort to get the Administration to reinstate deferred action has actively worked to protect them from similar action by the Administration, including by introducing a private bill to provide Isabel and her family permanent legal status (H.R. 4225), which passed the House of Representatives on December 8, 2020 and now awaits consideration by the Senate.
Relief for Dreamers
Dreamers and their families voluntarily registered themselves with the promise that if they followed the rules laid out, they would be safe. President Trump unilaterally changed the terms of that agreement and put hundreds of thousands of Dreamers at risk of deportation. To help restore their faith in the United States, Congressman DeSaulnier is proud to sponsor several bills that support Dreamers, including the Dream and Promise Act (H.R. 6), the BRIDGE Act (H.R. 496), and the American Hope Act (H.R. 3591), which would each provide a permanent solution for Dreamers and their families.
Supporting Asylum Seekers
After the Trump Administration implemented its family separation policy, Congressman DeSaulnier made several trips to the Southern border to see firsthand how asylum seekers were being treated. With that firsthand knowledge, he has sponsored dozens of bills to reunite families who were separated and provide permanent protection for people seeking a better life in the United States.
Despite the tremendous progress made in the struggle for gender equality, women still face violence, discrimination, and institutional barriers to equal participation in society. Even one hundred years after women's suffrage, the United States has not yet guaranteed equal constitutional rights to women. Women continue to face the impacts of gender discrimination in many areas including pay, workplace protections, social stresses, healthcare and reproductive rights, education, and others. Gender inequities have been further revealed during the coronavirus pandemic, which placed extra childcare and domestic burdens disproportionately on women. In Congress, Congressman DeSaulnier is a vocal advocate for women's economic, social, and reproductive rights.
By the Numbers
On average, women are paid just 80% of what men are paid. For women of color, that gap is even wider.
The United States has the worst maternal mortality rate among similarly wealthy nations, at 17.4 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births.
Although women make up 49.6% of the world's population, only 21 women serve as heads of state or government in 2020.
About one-in-five employed women in the U.S. (22%) say they have been sexually harassed at work.
If the trend of women leaving the labor force to assume caretaking responsibilities as a result of the coronavirus pandemic persists long term, women stand to lose $64.5 billion in wages.
Things to Know
Working for You
Supporting Women in the Workplace
Congressman DeSaulnier is a proud sponsor of the Paycheck Fairness Act (H.R.7), which passed the U.S. House of Representatives in February 2019, and would help address the wage gap between women and men working the same jobs by closing the loopholes that allow pay discrimination to continue and providing employees with the rights to challenge and eliminate pay discrimination in the workplace. He is also a sponsor of legislation that will strengthen families such as the Healthy Families Act (H.R. 1784), which would allow workers to earn up to seven paid sick days per year to recover from short-term illness, care for a sick family member, seek routine medical care, or seek assistance related to domestic violence.
Prioritizing Women's Health
Congressman DeSaulnier is a strong supporter of the Women's Health Protection Act (H.R. 2975), which blocks medically unnecessary abortion restrictions being pushed forward in state legislatures. He also sponsored the Equal Access to Abortion Coverage in Health Insurance (EACH Woman) Act (H.R. 1692) to remove the bans that prevent women from receiving coverage for abortion services through Medicaid so that all women have access to the full range of reproductive health care services.
Promoting Equal Rights
Congressman DeSaulnier believes that equal rights for women should be enshrined in our Constitution. To support that effort, he sponsored H.J. Res. 35, which would create a new amendment to the Constitution of the United States to declare equal rights for men and women, and H.J.Res. 79, which would remove the deadline for the ratification of the equal rights amendment and passed the U.S. House of Representatives in February 2020.
Congressman DeSaulnier continues to work tirelessly to address the injustices suffered by 50 African American Navy sailors following the tragic explosion at the Port Chicago Naval Magazine during World War II – the deadliest home front disaster of the war. Clearly a result of the racial perspectives of the time, the sailors were wrongfully charged and convicted of mutiny by the U.S. Navy for refusing to return to work while their white counterparts were given leave.
Joined by members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), and with the support of the NAACP, Congressman DeSaulnier spearheaded multiple efforts in the U.S. House of Representatives to publicly exonerate the sailors and erase the historic stain from their records.
In Mark’s view, the Port Chicago 50 were called upon to fight for our country, but ended up fighting against racial inequality that helped pave the way towards the desegregation of the U.S. Armed Forces. It is long past time to recognize this injustice and to set the record straight. As a nation, we cannot truly move forward until we correct the mistakes of our past.
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Congressman DeSaulnier led a series of floor statements with members of the Congressional Black Caucus to honor the anniversary of the tragic explosion at Port Chicago and recognize the subsequent injustices suffered by the 50 sailors.
In coordination with Senators Feinstein and Boxer, he sent a letter to President Barack Obama asking him to do everything in his power to acknowledge the injustice suffered by these sailors and remove the racially-biased convictions from their records.
Mark also introduced a resolution (H.Res. 616) calling on Congress to publicly exonerate the Port Chicago 50 and solicited the support of over 70 of his House colleagues, including several members of the House Democratic Leadership team, and the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC). The resolution won the endorsement of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
Most recently, Congressman DeSaulnier included a measure in the National Defense Authorization Act requiring the Navy to reexamine the circumstances that led to mutiny charges being filed. He also has sent a letter to the Smithsonian Institution to encourage them to include information on the Port Chicago disaster in the recently-opened National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Protecting the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT+) Community
During his 25 years in elected office, Congressman DeSaulnier has fought to provide a safe and welcoming environment for the LGBT+ community in Contra Costa County. During his time as a city councilmember, county supervisor, and state legislator, Congressman DeSaulnier was proud to have supported efforts to ensure that the LGBT+ community was protected from discrimination and harassment. In fact, Congressman DeSaulnier received a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) Congressional Scorecard, which measured support for LGBTQ equality in the 114th Congress.
As a member of the House Equality Caucus, which is dedicated to promoting equality for all, Congressman DeSaulnier celebrated the Supreme Court’s Obergefell v. Hodges decision guaranteeing American’s the right to marry regardless of who you are, what you look like, or who you love. Finally, across all fifty states marriage equality became the law of the land. From workforce and housing discrimination to transgender rights, Congressman DeSaulnier will continue to fight in Washington to protect the rights and liberties of the LGBT+ community.
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Congressman DeSaulnier is a proud sponsor of the Equality Act (H.R. 3185), which would prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, credit, and jury service.
He is also a sponsor of the Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act (H.R. 2450), which would prohibit commercial sexual orientation conversion therapy and classify it as an unfair and deceptive act or practice.
Mark became a signatory to a 2015 Amicus Brief to the Supreme Court, joining Equality Caucus Members and other congressional colleagues asking Supreme Court Justices to rule in favor of marriage equality.
He asked the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to end of the current lifetime ban on gay men from donating blood and replacing it with a risk-based policy.
Congressman DeSaulnier joined his colleagues in calling on Attorney General Loretta Lynch to ensure that all states and localities act in compliance with the Supreme Court’s ruling on marriage equality.
During his time as a state legislator, Mark chaired a Select Committee on Excellence and Innovation in State Government to find creative solutions to the California’s budget and governance challenges.
One of his first priorities in Congress was to launch the Innovation and Human Condition Caucus to focus on the nexus between developing technologies, the human experience, and federal policy. As part of his work on the caucus, Mark has visited innovation hubs such as UC Berkeley, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Facebook, Twitter, Google, among others.
Congressman DeSaulnier is also member of the House Science and National Labs Caucus, which concentrates on reinforcing federal investment in research and the national laboratories, as well as raise awareness about the role laboratories play in long-term economic growth.
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Mark is a strong supporter of robust funding for the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, local national labs like Berkley and Lawrence Livermore, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Science Foundation (NSF), and the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program (Space Grant).
He is a sponsor of the American Innovation Act (H.R. 1398), which would protect American competitiveness by increasing funding for the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, National Science Foundation, Department of Defense Science and Technology programs, among others.
He is an advocate of the Women and Minorities in STEM Booster Act (H.R. 4803), which encourages the recruitment and retention of women and minority students into STEM fields.
The security of our nation is Congressman DeSaulnier’s top priority in Congress. Threats to our nation are constantly evolving and are not the same as they were even a decade ago. Today, we face more elusive and dangerous threats, including terrorist organizations, radicalized individuals, and cyberattacks. We must be tough and smart while maintaining our principles, which means targeting and eliminating ISIS and other terrorist threats without engaging in another civil war on foreign soil. We must also provide law enforcement officials and the intelligence community with the resources and capabilities necessary to defend the nation and simultaneously uphold the Constitution’s hard-fought and hard-won protections.
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Israel and the Middle East
Israel is one of our closest allies, and ensuring they have the resources necessary to protect their homeland is important to our national security interests. Congressman DeSaulnier supports U.S. funding for Israel’s defense needs in this crucial part of the world.
Congressman DeSaulnier voted in favor of the international agreement to address Iran’s nuclear capabilities. At the heart of his decision was maximizing the opportunity for long-term peace in the Middle East and creating security and stability for the United States. Congressman DeSaulnier believes this accord is our best option for achieving this goal. Mechanisms for oversight and enforcement are comprehensive and are strengthened by the unified international front.
Funding for Homeland Security
Due to political gaming, funding for the essential Department of Homeland Security was in peril early in 2015. Congressman DeSaulnier stood up for our national security by voting to extend the agency’s funding despite some efforts in Congress to play political games with our nation’s security.
First Responders
Congressman DeSaulnier voted in favor of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act (H.R. 1786) , extending lifetime health care benefits to first responders from September 11, 2001. Their selfless service to our nation deserves all of the support we can provide to them and their families. Mark strongly supports local and state law enforcement and firefighters, and has consistently worked to increase funding for COPS grants, Byrne grants, and the Assistance to Firefighters grant program, which helps fire departments and emergency medical service organizations meet their firefighting and emergency response needs.
Guantanamo
Operations at Guantanamo undermine one of America’s most fundamental principles, the rule of law. The political and legal expediency of the detention center at Guantanamo Bay has not been worth the cost to America’s reputation around the world, nor to the erosion of our legal and ethical standards here at home. Mark supports the President’s plan to close Guantanamo.
As a former small business owner, Congressman DeSaulnier understands the vital role small businesses play in strengthening the American economy. Small businesses are the engine of job creation in America, accounting for approximately 55% of all jobs in the United States. Last year alone, the marketplace saw the fastest increase in the formation of new businesses that it has seen over the last 17 years. Mark recognizes that an investment in our country’s small businesses is an investment in the future growth and success of our nation. It is for this reason that Mark is committed to working on behalf of small businesses in Congress, by fighting for greater access to capital and ensuring that entrepreneurs have the tools that will help their businesses thrive.
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Congressman DeSaulnier understands that access to capital is essential for small business to remain competitive, increase hiring capabilities, and stay afloat. Mark is a cosponsor of the Credit Union Small Business Jobs Creation Act (H.R. 1188), which would increase the lending cap imposed on America’s credit unions allowing for approximately $13 billion of capital to flow to small businesses. If enacted this legislation would strengthen the American economy by creating roughly 140,000 new jobs.
Mark has seen firsthand that investing in the future of our workforce by providing resources our young people can use excites interest in business and spurs innovation. Congressman DeSaulnier supported the Start-up America’s Students Act (H.R. 3990), which would create a grant program to fund facilities on college campuses that provide guidance, resources, and assistance in creating and growing student-owned businesses.
Small Business and the Affordable Care Act
Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Small Businesses with up to 50 full-time employees are not required to provide health insurance coverage to their employees. However, the Affordable Care Act offers tax credits for qualifying small businesses that would like to offer health insurance for their employees. You can learn more about these tax credits and Covered California for Small Businesses here.
While the ACA greatly improved our outdated health care system, too many businesses remain ineligible for the credit or are discouraged by the complexity of its requirements to take advantage of this benefit. To help small businesses compete and grow, Congressman DeSaulnier supports the Small Business Tax Credit Accessibility Act (H.R. 762) to expand and simplify the small business tax credits under the ACA. This will allow more small businesses that would like to provide health insurance to qualify for the credit and provide affordable, quality health insurance to their workers.