Luz Rivas

LOS ANGELES – Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) and Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) led 45 of their colleagues in urging U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director David Venturella to restore detainee details to the Online Detainee Locator System (ODLS). The Members’ letter comes after a disturbing report from the Associated Press revealed that ICE began removing individuals with final orders of removal from ODLS. ODLS allows family members, legal representatives, and members of the public to locate individuals detained by ICE. “This is a wholly unprecedented move by the United States government to impede both access and legal representation for people in federal custody,” the Members wrote. “We urge ICE to restore ODLS location information for all individuals with final removal orders who remain in ICE custody and to provide Congress with the justification underlying this change. The federal government should not be denying any individual access to legal counsel or shielding their whereabouts from loved ones.” ICE has not publicly announced this change in policy and has not communicated to detainees’ families or legal representation where detainees are currently held who have disappeared from ODLS. The Members continued: “The consequences of this change extend beyond public transparency. Immigration attorneys have reported losing track of clients after they disappeared from ODLS, while family members are uncertain whether their loved ones were transferred to another facility or removed from the United States completely. We urge ICE to rescind this policy immediately and restore ODLS location information for all individuals with final orders of removal who remain in ICE custody. ICE should ensure that detainees remain locatable to their families and legal representatives instead of trying to hide these individuals’ whereabouts.” A full copy of the letter can be found here. The Members’ letter is signed by Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Shontel Brown (OH-11), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Gilbert Cisneros (CA-31), Luis Correa (CA-46), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Lois Frankel (Fl-22), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), John Garamendi (CA-08), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Henry Johnson (GA-04), William Keating (MA-09), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Analilia Mejia (NJ-11), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Eleanor Norton (DC-At Large), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Emily Randall (WA-06), Pat Ryan (NY-18), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Darren Soto (FL-09), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Norma Torres (CA-35), Derek Tran (CA-45), Gabe Vasquez (NM-2), Veasy Marc (TX-33), Nydia Velázquez (NY-7), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-15), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24). Background: On September 21, 2026, the Associated Press reported that ICE began removing individuals with final orders of removal from ODLS on September 15, 2026. This change in policy was not publicly announced, and was not communicated to detainees’ families or legal representation. The Washington Post also reported that ICE’s new policy bars immigration officials from sharing information with their attorneys or relatives by phone.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) released the following statement after voting to proceed with impeachment proceedings against President Donald Trump: “The President needs to be held accountable for ICE’s actions and this Administration’s abuses of power. I voted to proceed on the process to impeach Donald Trump and protect immigrant communities like mine in the San Fernando Valley from ICE’s terror. ICE has been violently and unlawfully carrying out Donald Trump’s anti-immigrant agenda and must be abolished.” ###

LOS ANGELES – Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) presented the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) with $660,000 in federal funding for vital infrastructure upgrades to bus shelters and bus stops across the San Fernando Valley. “The federal funding I secured will make traveling around the Valley a stronger, safer, and more reliable option for riders,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “Thousands of riders across the Valley rely on Metro buses to go to school, commute to work, run errands, and go to the doctor. This federal investment will increase public transportation uses, add shade to make bus stops and stations safer for riders, and strengthen accessibility to economic opportunities. I am proud to bring this federal investment to the San Fernando Valley and will continue fighting for key transportation infrastructure upgrades that will connect our communities and improve opportunities for working families.” “We appreciate Congresswoman Rivas’ support for these vital improvements that will benefit the more than 26,000 riders who take Metro buses each day in this corridor,” said Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins. “This $660,000 grant, combined with others, will help us work with the City of Los Angeles to improve dozens of bus stops with shade, better seating, better rider information and a better overall experience. Federal funding helps local dollars go further and make it easier for residents of Los Angeles County to connect with school, work, medical and economic opportunities.” Background: Congresswoman Rivas secured $660,000 in federal funding in Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project Funding for California’s 29th Congressional District. For Fiscal Year 2026, Metro received $2.6 million in federal funding to make upgrades throughout the Los Angeles area. This funding will help Metro support cities in purchasing vital infrastructure upgrades to bus shelters and bus stops which will increase public transportation usage, safety and accessibility to economic opportunities. This funding is part of the nearly $15 million in federal funding Congresswoman Rivas secured for California's 29th Congressional District in Fiscal Year 2026.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) introduced the Telecommunications Gaps in Accountability and Performance (GAP) Act to ensure effective communications during natural disasters. During the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst wildfires in January 2025, connectivity failures directly affected evacuations, emergency response coordination, and public safety communications. These disruptions emphasized the need for congressional oversight of existing disaster response frameworks, including the Mandatory Disaster Response Initiative (MDRI). The Telecommunications GAP Act requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to issue a report to Congress evaluating the effectiveness of the MDRI. “During the January 2025 wildfires, families across Los Angeles experienced firsthand how quickly communications can fail when they need them most,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “When an evacuation order comes, people must be able to rely on their phones and wireless networks to get alerts, reach loved ones, and hear from first responders. My Telecommunications GAP Act ensures Congress has a clear, independent assessment of what worked during last year’s wildfires across L.A. County, as well an analysis to close any gaps in disaster communications systems to better protect people and their homes. A resilient and reliable telecommunications infrastructure is key to keeping our communities safe, especially as wildfires and climate-driven disasters become more intense.” Background: The Telecommunications Gaps in Accountability and Performance (GAP) Act will require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to issue a report to Congress evaluating the effectiveness of the Mandatory Disaster Response Initiative (MDRI), including an analysis of the January 2025 Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires in Los Angeles. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) operates the MDRI as a mandatory framework for wireless providers during disasters. While the MDRI outlines commitments such as roaming assistance and mutual aid, it has not been comprehensively evaluated by Congress following a large-scale disaster. The Telecommunications GAP Act would require the GAO to submit a report to Congress evaluating: MDRI’s overall effectiveness; MDRI’s performance during the January 2025 wildfires; Gaps in coverage, roaming, or coordination; and Recommendations on whether the MDRI should be improved, modified, or expanded. ###

LOS ANGELES – Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29), co-chair of the STEM Education Caucus, introduced the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Act of 2026. This bill reauthorizes and modernizes the NSF REU program that has strengthened undergraduate STEM research pathways since 2010. “Every college student, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to engage in STEM research, gain new experiences in the lab, and understand what a potential STEM career could be,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “Opportunities for STEM education experiences should not be limited because of where students go to school. My NSF REU Act expands access to undergraduate research experiences and opportunities to students at minority-serving institutions, community colleges, emerging research institutions, and rural-serving institutions. By strengthening learning opportunities for all students, we can develop a more inclusive and robust STEM workforce that will keep the United States a leader in innovation and technology.” Background: The National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Act of 2026 strengthens pathways into STEM careers by prioritizing first-time research participants and students from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds. It expands NSF’s flexibility to support student professional development, mentor training, institutional partnerships, and long-term program evaluation. The legislation reinforces the role of experiential learning in building the STEM workforce, while improving access for students at minority-serving institutions, community colleges, emerging research institutions, and rural-serving institutions. The NSF REU Act of 2026 would expand access to high-quality undergraduate research experiences and modernize program implementation. Key aspects of this legislation include: Updates statute to be consistent with NSF’s current implementation of the program; Provides NSF further flexibility to support undergraduate research, including support for student professional development, faculty supplements to promote community college participation, mentorship training to broaden participation in STEM, and program evaluation and data collection activities; Clarifies one of the primary intents of the program is to provide first-time research experiences to individuals with limited or no prior experience in STEM or individuals belonging to groups; and Authorizes an appropriation sum of $100 million per year for fiscal years 2027 through 2032.

My favorite Dolly Parton song is Jolene. Dolly was amazing! RIP 😢

Healthcare is a human right!

LOS ANGELES — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29), representative for California’s 29th Congressional District, presented the City of Los Angeles with $850,000 in federal funding for the Pacoima Wash Bridge Mitigation Project. This funding will help improve the safety and security of six critical bridges that cross the Pacoima Wash. “I am proud to secure $850,000 in federal funding to make key safety improvements to six bridges that cross the Pacoima Wash,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “For decades, people have crossed the Pacoima Wash to get to work, go to school, and run errands. The funding I secured will make the necessary repairs and upgrades to reduce fire and safety hazards so people can continue safely crossing the Pacoima Wash for years to come. I will continue working with Councilwoman Imelda Padilla and our community partners to secure federal funding and resources that keep San Fernando Valley residents safe.” “This investment will make a real difference by helping us address serious safety hazards, protect critical infrastructure and create safer conditions for residents, pedestrians and our unhoused neighbors. Public assets, like the Pacoima Wash bridge are essential, and this funding will allow us to reinforce and secure these areas while protecting them for years to come,” said Councilwoman Imelda Padilla. “This is what strong collaboration can deliver for our communities, and I am incredibly grateful to Congresswoman Luz Rivas for her continued partnership, leadership and commitment to bringing critical federal resources home to the East San Fernando Valley.” Background: Congresswoman Rivas secured $850,000 in Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project Funding to improve the safety and security of six bridges that cross the Pacoima Wash. The project includes the installation of anchored steel plate enclosures, repairs to steel girders, and upgraded fencing to improve public safety and reduce fire and health hazards. This funding is part of the nearly $15 million in federal funding Congresswoman Rivas secured for California's 29th Congressional District in Fiscal Year 2026. ###

LOS ANGELES — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29), member of the House Committee on Natural Resources, introduced the Methane Pollution Accountability Act, a bill that holds oil and gas companies accountable for the harmful pollutants and toxins released into communities through venting, flaring, and leaking processes. These communities are often subjected to worse public health, with increased rates of disease such as asthma or cancer. “For far too long, oil and gas companies have treated environmental justice communities as a dumping ground at the expense of the health and well-being of the families who live there,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “In the San Fernando Valley, decades of harmful emission practices have led to higher rates of asthma, respiratory illnesses, organ damage, and other serious health conditions. My Methane Pollution Accountability Act holds oil and gas companies accountable for their harmful practices to minimize the pollutants being leaked into environmental justice communities like ours. It is my hope that House Republicans put our communities ahead of oil and gas interests and bring this bill to the floor.” “We are grateful for Representative Rivas’ leadership in holding big polluters accountable for the damage they continue to cause to our health and the environment,” said Madeleine Foote, Healthy Communities Program Director at League of Conservation Voters. “At a time when the Trump Administration caters to the fossil fuel industry and their profits rather than the health and safety of our families, it is more important than ever for Congress to step up and ensure we are prioritizing clean air for every community.” “Companies who refuse to adopt readily-available technology to reduce routine venting and flaring should absolutely have to have a plan in place to minimize pollution and leaks or pay for their waste,” said Mahyar Sorour, Director of Beyond Fossil Fuels Policy at the Sierra Club. “Methane gas pollutes our air, harms our health, and contributes to rising energy prices. The Trump Administration is blocking safeguards that would stop the practice of routine flaring, so this bill is a critical step to ensure accountability from these bad actors.” “Curbing pollution from the oil and gas industry is critical to protecting public health," said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. "Not only is methane a powerful greenhouse gas, oil and gas production can also send harmful pollutants like volatile organic compounds, benzene and formaldehyde into the air. Efforts to reduce venting, flaring and negligent releases of methane will help reduce avoidable pollution and hold polluters accountable for wasted resources. We thank Representative Rivas for working to protect the air we all breathe." Background: The Methane Pollution Accountability Act requires oil and gas operators with leases on federal land or the Outer Continental Shelf to pay royalties on all methane gas that is consumed or lost by venting, flaring, or other negligent methods. Oil and gas operators must also produce a plan to minimize the harmful pollutants that are being released into environmental justice communities across the country. This royalty was initially included as Section 50263 of the Inflation Reduction Act. The Trump Administration and House Republicans eliminated the collection of this royalty with the passage of H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). The Biden Administration finalized the Methane Waste Prevention Rule in 2024, and the Trump Administration announced plans to roll it back. The Methane Pollution Accountability Act has two original co-sponsors and is endorsed by the American Lung Association, the League of Conservation Voters, and the Sierra Club.

Dilley, Texas — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29), representative for California’s 29th Congressional District, conducted a Congressional oversight visit of the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in Texas with her colleagues, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07). The Members visited the Dilley Immigration Processing Center to meet with women, children, and families who have been detained for extended periods of time and conduct oversight on the conditions of the facility, which has been consistently reported as inhumane and dire. “My colleagues and I met with 20 people, including a 16-year-old, who have been detained at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center for months,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “I spoke with a woman from Maryland who was attending her court hearing in March when she was detained and sent to the Dilley Immigration Processing Center. Her 12-year-old son with special needs has a court hearing tomorrow and is worried that he, too, will be sent to the Dilley Immigration Processing Center or even deported. This is one story among hundreds – of mothers detained, children pulled away from school, families separated, and lives being disrupted in ways that often go unseen. We owe it to these families to listen and respond.” Unfortunately, ICE officials on-site severely limited access to Members. More specifically, the Members were only able to talk to one child, even though over 100 children are detained. Members were not shown the medical unit nor classrooms, which were of particular importance especially to determine the conditions of the facility. Members observed that ICE is becoming more secretive and more restrictive, including not even providing the number of federal workers on site. This is concerning and only underscores the continued calls to shut down the Dilley Detention Facility. During their visit, Members were shown a courtroom where cases are heard, an intake facility where pregnant women, children, and infants are processed, and a small plastic playground that offers no shade to children from the Texas sun. Congresswoman Rivas continued: “ICE is being increasingly secretive about their actions at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center. We were only allowed to speak to one child out of 112 children – and even that interaction was cut short. ICE is traumatizing over 500 individuals – including pregnant women, children, and infants as young as 2 months old – and subjecting them to inhumane conditions for extended periods of time. These individuals should be living their lives, welcoming their newborn children, playing with their friends, and raising their families outside of ICE detention. The Trump Administration must be held accountable for the trauma it is inflicting on immigrant families. Children should not be detained, and I am continuing to call for the Dilley Detention Facility to be shut down, immediately.” Background: Congresswoman Luz Rivas has conducted seven oversight visits at immigration detention facilities in California and Texas, including at the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building, the Adelanto Detention Facility, the California City Detention Facility, and the Dilley Immigration Processing Center. ICE blocked Congresswoman Rivas from conducting oversight of detention facilities three times. Congresswoman Rivas joined Congressman Joaquin Castro and over 100 of their House Democratic Caucus colleagues in calling for the Dilley Immigration Processing Center to be shut down. Congresswoman Rivas has also sent five letters to ICE leadership calling for accountability into the conditions at detention centers and joined her colleagues for field hearings into ICE abuses in Los Angeles and Minneapolis-St. Paul. Dilley Immigration Processing Center, also known as the South Texas Family Residential Center, was built in 2014 to detain women and children. 539 individuals are currently being held at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center. A report on the Dilley Immigration Processing Center from Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services (RAICES) found that families are routinely being held longer than the 20-day legal limit, with many being held for months. The report noted unsafe and degrading conditions, including inadequate access to food, water, personal hygiene, and basic care that are particularly harmful to children. Pregnant women face inadequate prenatal care and unsafe medical practices, putting them and their unborn babies at risk. Many are deported without a meaningful opportunity to seek protection, raising concerns under U.S. and international law. The report also mentions that facilities at the Dilley Immigration Detention Center lack educational resources for children, noting that classes are taught by a prison guard.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) released the following statement after voting against Republicans’ Stop Insider Trading Act that makes it easier for government officials – including Trump and his Cabinet – to hide insider trading and avoid accountability, while imposing stringent voter ID requirements on Americans. “Republicans’ bill allows people like Trump and his family to continue profiting off the presidency,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “To make matters worse, Republicans are recycling harmful provisions from their unpopular SAVE America Act that will make mail-in voting harder for millions of Americans, disenfranchising them from our democratic process. I am proud to join House Democrats in co-sponsoring the Restore Trust in Government Act. Democrats’ bill will ban Members of Congress and their families from trading stocks, and ensure that Donald Trump, his family, and his Vice President cannot continue to enrich themselves while hard working Americans continue to struggle with everyday costs.” Background: H.R. 6731, the Restore Trust in Government Act, by Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-2) prohibits Members of Congress, the President, Vice President, or their spouses and dependents from owning or trading stocks. Officials must divest their individual stocks within 90 days after taking office or the date of the bill's enactment. Assets acquired through special circumstances (like inheritance or marriage) also must be divested within 90 days. Republicans’ Stop Insider Trading Act passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 198-232. Congresswoman Rivas voted against this bill. ###

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) released the following statement after the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure passed the Water Resource Development Act of 2026 (WRDA), which includes an authorization of $28 million for the City of San Fernando and an authorization of $22 million for the City of Los Angeles to improve its water infrastructure in the east San Fernando Valley. “I am proud to secure $50 million in federal funding authorizations in this year’s WRDA bill to help the Cities of San Fernando and Los Angeles improve water infrastructure,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “This authorization will support the increased water demands that have been exacerbated by extreme heat, prolonged droughts, and the ongoing climate crisis. While Republicans may be in disarray, I urge them to quickly put this important bill on the House Floor for a vote so San Fernando Valley residents can have the resources and tools they need to access clean and usable water.” Background: The Water Resource Development Act of 2026 (WRDA) is an omnibus legislation used to authorize various water resources projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). USACE is the agency that develops water resources projects, such as ports and harbors, the inland waterway navigation network, flood and storm protection, and other water resources. The bill was reported favorably from the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure by a vote of 66-0, and will go to the House Floor for a vote. Authorizations that are included in WRDA must still have funds appropriated by Congress for implementation. The following requests from Congresswoman Rivas were included in WRDA: $28 million for the City of San Fernando to improve their water infrastructure, including water supply and distribution systems; An additional $22 million to address the need for flood mitigation, stormwater and wastewater management in the east San Fernando Valley; A study on hydrology and expanding recreational opportunities at Hansen Dam; and The transfer of responsibility of four channels in CA-29 from USACE to Los Angeles County Public Works. ###

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) released the following statement on Republican Amendment #8 to the National Security, Department of State and Related Programs Appropriations Act: “Foreign policy, especially issues involving the Middle East, should be considered by lawmakers in a thoughtful and strategic approach. Unfortunately, while I disagree with many of the actions of far-right Netanyahu, the Republican amendment is a poorly drafted and hyper-partisan amendment. More specifically, this amendment endangers the delivery of crucial humanitarian aid. Our country was in a different position when President Barack Obama entered the United States into a 10-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2016. With the expiration of this MOU imminent, I believe change to our Middle East policy must happen to ensure the safety and security of both Israelis and Palestinians. These changes cannot come from a disgruntled Republican Member’s amendment that aims to divide Democrats and only allows for ten minutes of debate on the House Floor. For these reasons, I voted ‘no’ on this amendment, and will continue working with my colleagues to address the needs of both the Israeli and Palestinian people.” ###

LOS ANGELES — On Thursday, July 9, 2026, Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29), representative for California’s 29thCongressional District, and Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath met with officials from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to advocate for stronger safety measures and oversight at Whiteman Airport following two recent aircraft crashes involving aircraft landing at the airport in Pacoima. The meeting follows Congresswoman Rivas’ and Supervisor Horvath continued advocacy after the April 20, 2026, and June 16, 2026, crashes. These efforts include Supervisor Horvath’s letters sent directly to FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford calling for a temporary suspension of flight operations pending comprehensive investigations into the recent incidents, enhanced oversight of pilot training and aircraft maintenance, a thorough review of airport operations, and immediate safety recommendations. Los Angeles County has conducted an analysis of crashes that have occurred in the last 25 years and cross referenced them with National Traffic Safety Board (NTSB) investigations. According to the NTSB, every single crash has been caused by pilot error or aircraft malfunction. “The meeting on Thursday with myself, Supervisor Horvath, and FAA was productive in ensuring safety and accountability at Whiteman Airport,” said Congresswoman Luz Rivas. “I look forward to seeing the FAA fulfill its commitments to increase inspections, community outreach, and education at Whiteman Airport. I have the highest standards and expectations for the FAA to ensure safety for those who use the airport as well as the continued safety for the surrounding community of Pacoima.” “The safety of Pacoima residents will always be my top priority,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “On Thursday, Congresswoman Rivas and I made one thing clear to the FAA: protecting this community cannot wait. We expect the FAA to fulfill its responsibility to improve safety at Whiteman Airport, and we will continue pushing until every resident feels safe.” Background: During the meeting, Congresswoman Rivas and Supervisor Horvath reinforced the community's concerns and emphasized that protecting residents living near Whiteman Airport must remain the highest priority. In response to continued advocacy and communication from Congresswoman Rivas and Supervisor Horvath and, the FAA provided updates on additional actions now being taken to enhance oversight of flight operations, pilot training and education at Whiteman Airport, including: Increased oversight of pilots, flight schools, and aircraft repair stations, including expanded weekend inspections; Regular pilot education seminars through the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) in partnership with Los Angeles County Public Works; Continued modernization of air traffic control communications infrastructure at Whiteman Airport; Additional runway safety initiatives, including annual Runway Safety Action Team meetings and a new Arrival Alert Notice program for pilots; and Ongoing investigations into the April and June aircraft crashes. Congresswoman Rivas and Supervisor Horvath will continue working with the FAA, Los Angeles County Public Works, and the surrounding community to advance additional safety improvements and strengthen accountability at Whiteman Airport. ###

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29), daughter of immigrants and the first Latina to represent California’s 29th Congressional District, released the following statement after the Supreme Court struck down Trump’s unlawful Executive Order to end birthright citizenship: “The Supreme Court struck down Donald Trump’s illegal attempt to end birthright citizenship and ruled that 4 million children born in the United States – including many across the San Fernando Valley – have a place in this country as American citizens. “For 250 years, our country was built and defined by immigrants and children of immigrants. This includes the contributions that Latino, Black, and Asian communities have made to define the San Fernando Valley and Southern California. “The Fourteenth Amendment is clear: ‘All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States.’ Donald Trump does not get to bend and rewrite the Constitution to comply with his illegal, anti-immigrant agenda. “While today’s ruling is a win against Trump’s illegal, anti-immigrant agenda, Congress must act to protect our communities from the Trump Administration’s continued attacks. This includes strengthening the pathway to citizenship and stopping Donald Trump from further attempts to undermine our Constitution.” Background: Executive Order 14160 was signed on January 20, 2025, by President Donald Trump to deny children born in the United States from acquiring U.S. citizenship if the child's parent is in the U.S. On April 1, 2026, the Supreme Court of the United States heard Barbara v. Trump. This case is regarding the compliance of President Trump’s Executive Order 14160, which restricts birthright citizenship in the United States. Trump v. Barbara determines whether children born in the U.S. are guaranteed citizenship under the Constitution. Congresswoman Luz Rivas joined over 200 of her House and Senate Democratic colleagues in filing an amicus brief standing up to Trump’s Executive Order. Congresswoman Luz Rivas is a co-sponsor on Congresswoman Delia Ramirez’s (IL-03) Born in the USA Act, which prevents funds from being used to implement Trump’s Executive Order. ###

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) is urging U.S. Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Joseph Edlow to address the backlog in renewal applications for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) applicants. Congresswoman Rivas’ letter comes after her constituents experienced delays in their DACA renewal applications, including delays of up to 8 months. Nationwide reports have stated that USCIS is taking months longer on average to renew legal protections for DACA recipients. “My constituents with DACA status continue to report extraordinary delays in USCIS processing times,” wrote Congresswoman Rivas. “These prolonged delays prevent DACA recipients from maintaining valid work authorization, placing their livelihoods and employment at risk. As a result, many are experiencing severe financial hardship and face the prospect of unemployment, housing instability, immigration detention, and removal due to the lack of proper documentation caused by the Trump Administration’s delayed adjudications.” DACA recipients must submit renewal applications between 120 and 150 days (4 to 5 months) before their current DACA status and Employment Authorization Document (EAD) expire. According to USCIS, the current average processing time for DACA application renewals is approximately 3.5 months. However, constituents have reported delays longer than 4 months. Congresswoman Rivas continued: “In my district, constituents have already lost their jobs and are facing eviction because of USCIS’s failure to adjudicate applications in a timely fashion. In light of these significant consequences, prompt adjudication of DACA renewal applications is critical to safeguarding the economic security and well-being of hardworking individuals, their families, and the communities that depend on their contributions. I am urging you to take immediate steps to address the USCIS renewal backlogs and ensure these renewals are completed in a reasonable time frame.” A full copy of the letter can be found here. Background: Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is an executive policy that allows individuals who were brought to the United States as children without legal immigration status and who meet certain requirements to be considered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as not a priority for removal. DACA recipients are also eligible to receive legal protections and employment authorization, which is renewable in two-year increments. As of 2026, there are approximately 500,000 DACA recipients nationwide, including approximately 140,000 in California. Congresswoman Rivas has hosted DACA workshops for constituents to help DACA recipients in CA-29 with their DACA renewal applications. Constituents needing assistance can call Congresswoman Rivas’ Arleta office at (818) 253-3535. ###

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) released the following statement following the Supreme Court’s ruling to void two majority Black congressional districts in Louisiana and weaken Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a critical provision that prohibits racial discrimination in voting policies and district maps: “What Donald Trump, his handpicked Supreme Court, and Republicans in Congress are doing to undermine the Voting Rights Act is a horrid attack on voting rights. The Supreme Court’s ruling will have harmful reverberating consequences for the future of our democracy. “Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act is instrumental to ensuring Black, Brown, and minority communities across the country have fair representation in government. We must use every tool at our disposal to counter the threat Trump and Republicans pose to democracy — and that includes passing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to restore the protections in the Voting Rights Act. ###

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) released the following statement after Todd Lyons, Acting Director for Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE), announced his resignation: “History will not be kind to Todd Lyons or this Administration’s treatment of our most vulnerable. “Under Lyons’ leadership, ICE has operated with a complete disregard for Americans’ constitutional rights and civil liberties. ICE has created community trauma through their actions that have separated families, detained over 3,800 children in inhumane conditions, and terrorized immigrant communities across the country – including the 47 people who have died in ICE custody. Because of ICE’s actions, my constituents are terrified to go to work, show up for school, or even leave their house. This is a fear that no one should live with, and that ICE’s and DHS’ leadership must answer for. “Lyons has repeatedly dodged Congressional oversight into ICE’s actions and violated the law by blocking my colleagues and I from entering detention facilities to conduct our Congressional oversight duties. Lyons ignored my calls to answer for the ICE raids that have terrorized Los Angeles and to halt ICE agents from violating the Fourth Amendment rights. “Todd Lyons may be leaving, but ICE will continue to be a threat to the safety of our most vulnerable unless serious actions are taken to rein it in. That is why I continue my call to abolish ICE.” Background: Congresswoman Luz Rivas represents the San Fernando Valley in Congress, which has been one of the hardest-hit communities in the country by the ICE raids. To address the increased immigration enforcement operations and stand up for her constituents, Congresswoman Rivas sent 5 letters to ICE leadership calling for accountability and visited detention centers 4 times to conduct her Congressional oversight duties. On June 7, 2025, Congresswoman Rivas, with three of her colleagues, was denied entry to inspect the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building in Downtown Los Angeles. On June 9, 2025, Congresswoman Rivas sent a letter to Acting Director Lyons concerning ICE personnel violating federal law, obstructing Congressional oversight of the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building in Downtown Los Angeles, and the inhumane treatment of detainees. On June 17, 2025, Congresswoman Luz Rivas, with four of her House Democratic Caucus colleagues, conducted a Congressional Oversight visit of the Adelanto Detention Center. On June 18, 2025, Congresswoman Rivas sent a letter to Acting Director Lyons concerning the inhumane treatment of detainees at the Adelanto Detention Center and the haphazard transfer of detainees to other detention centers. On August 4, 2025, Congresswoman Rivas sent a letter to Acting Director Lyons demanding an in-person meeting with him and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol leadership regarding the traumatic immigration raids at sensitive locations and the use of masks and unmarked vehicles. On August 26, 2025, Congresswoman Rivas was denied access to conduct a Congressional Oversight of the Adelanto Detention Center and demand answers for Benjamin Guerrero-Cruz’s family. Benjamin Guerrero-Cruz was an 18-year-old student at Reseda High School who was detained by ICE while walking his dog. In the span of 24 hours, Guerrero-Cruz was transferred from the Adelanto Detention Center to Arizona, and then back to the Adelanto Detention Center without his family’s knowledge. On August 28, 2025, Congresswoman Rivas was again denied access to conduct Congressional Oversight of the Adelanto Detention Center. This prompted Congresswoman Rivas to introduce H.R. 5073, the Immigration Notification for Facility Oversight and Relocation Management Act of 2025, or the “INFORM Act of 2025”, to bring transparency to ICE’s detainee transfer process. On August 29, 2025, Congresswoman Rivas sent a letter to Acting Director Lyons concerning her Congressional oversight visit of the Adelanto Detention Center and demanded accountability for the transfer and treatment of Benjamin Guerrero-Cruz. On November 6, 2025, Congresswoman Luz Rivas visited the Adelanto Detention Center to observe Benjamin Guerrero-Cruz’s master hearing. Guerrero-Cruz was released from ICE detention and reunited with his family in December. On November 24, 2025, Congresswoman Rivas participated in the House Oversight and Government Reform: Immigration Shadow Hearing titled “Due Process for All: Exposing Trump’s Mass Deportation Machine” in Downtown Los Angeles on the ICE’s actions in Southern California. On January 16, 2026, Congresswoman Rivas participated in a shadow field hearing with her House Democratic Caucus colleagues in Minnesota. This hearing was in response to the murder of Renee Nicole Good by ICE agents. On January 22, 2026, Congresswoman Rivas called for ICE to be abolished and called the agency “broken beyond repair.” On February 3, 2026, Congresswoman Rivas joined her House Democratic Caucus colleagues at a protest in front of ICE’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. The Members called on then-Secretary Kristi Noem to be impeached and for ICE to be abolished. On February 19, 2026, Congresswoman Rivas sent a letter to Acting Director Lyons concerning an anonymous whistleblower revealing ICE agents violating the Fourth Amendment and entering private homes without a judicial warrant. ###

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) joined House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and 64 of her House Democratic colleagues in introducing a bill to establish a Commission on Presidential Capacity to Discharge the Powers and Duties of Office. The creation of this commission is called for in Section 4 of the 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution to enable Congress to ensure effective and uninterrupted leadership in the presidency. “House Democrats are using every tool at our disposal to hold Donald Trump accountable and save our democracy,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “Trump’s mental and physical instability is a serious concern for our nation. Trump has displayed erratic and incoherent ramblings during speeches and interviews, as well as unexplained medical treatments and unusual physical appearances of injuries. This shows a cognitive and physical decline that is threatening the survival of our republic. Congresswoman Rivas continued: “Ranking Member Raskin’s bill meets a critical moment in our history by empowering Congress, through its Constitutionally-mandated duty, to create a body to assess the mental and physical fitness of the President’s ability to carry out the duties of the office. I join my colleagues in ensuring Congress can fulfill its responsibilities under the 25th Amendment to protect our democracy from the effects of Trump’s erratic behavior and assess his mental and physical fitness to serve.” Background: Section 4 of the 25th Amendment empowers Congress to establish a permanent “body” that, with the concurrence of the Vice President, can declare that the President is “unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office.” Although the 25th Amendment was adopted more than 50 years ago, Congress never set up this body called for in Section 4. Ranking Member Raskin’s bill establishes this independent nonpartisan body: The Commission on Presidential Capacity to Discharge the Powers and Duties of Office. This means the Vice President could act either with a majority of the Cabinet or a majority of this body in the event of a 25th Amendment crisis. Congresswoman Rivas joins Ranking Member Raskin and 64 other House Democrats in introducing this bill. ###

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) released the following statement after voting for House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Gregory Meeks’ (NY-05) War Powers Resolution opposing Trump’s unconstitutional war in Iran. This is Congresswoman Rivas’s second time voting for a War Powers Resolution opposing Trump’s war. “I again cast my vote in support of a War Powers Resolution to hold Donald Trump accountable and end his unconstitutional war in Iran. Over the past month, Trump has threatened to eradicate an entire civilization, threatened to escalate force in the region, and disrupted our economy. “Since Trump's war in Iran began, the cost of living has skyrocketed and life has become more unaffordable for working families. The average price of gas in Los Angeles County soared to nearly $6 per gallon and as high as $8 per gallon. Trump is spending over $1 billion per day to continue his war in Iran while working families in my district and across the country continue to struggle with the rising costs of gas, rent, and groceries. “Trump is leading our country into an unconstitutional war that most Americans do not want, much less support. His threats to eradicate an entire civilization is not only detrimental to our national security, but also the behavior of anyone who is not of a sound mind. Trump is unhinged. His chaotic and erratic behavior will put our servicemembers in danger and make our country and the world less safe. “Trump’s war in Iran must come to an end.” ###

LOS ANGELES — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) released the following statement after Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA-14) and Congressman Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23) announced their resignations from the House of Representatives: “Yesterday, Congressman Eric Swalwell and Congressman Tony Gonzales announced their resignations from the House of Representatives. Both Congressmen faced allegations that are deeply disturbing and must be taken seriously. I commend the bravery of those who came forward to share their stories. I will continue to stand with them. The victims deserve justice. “These men – along with anyone who engages in sexually predatory or abusive behavior inside and outside of the workplace – must be held accountable. As an institution of Congress, we must uphold the integrity and confidence our constituencies have placed in us. The people of California’s 14th Congressional district and Texas’s 23rd Congressional district deserve to have full representation and confidence in who represents them in Congress. “Congressmen Swalwell and Gonzales’s resignations should not absolve them from accountability or halt the course of justice. Therefore, it is my hope that the House Ethics Committee continues its investigations into both Congressmen – even after their resignations – and publicly releases its investigative report, as appropriate.” ###

LOS ANGELES — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29), representative for Toluca Lake in Congress, is urging the United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer, David Steiner, to reconsider the proposed location for the new Toluca Lake Post Office, at 11331 Camarillo Street – a widely unfavorable place for residents of Toluca Lake. “My constituents have reached out to me about this location being inconvenient and unfavorable, as well as potentially undermining reliable postal service for the Toluca Lake community,” wrote Congresswoman Rivas. “While I appreciate ongoing efforts from USPS, these uncertainties and prolonged delays further underscore the need to identify a more viable and accessible location within Toluca Lake.” Toluca Lake residents have expressed concerns to Congresswoman Rivas that the proposed Camarillo Street location would be less accessible for residents as it will be further away and in the middle of a busy intersection. The proposed Camarillo Street facility is approximately 2 miles away from the former centrally located facility along Riverside Drive in Toluca Lake. Additionally, the proposed Camarillo Street Post Office location is undergoing logistical challenges between USPS and Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) which could result in delays of up to two years. Congresswoman Rivas continued: “My staff facilitated a meeting between USPS and LADWP, which I personally joined as well. I am requesting a new Toluca Lake Post Office location, specifically along the Riverside Drive corridor in Toluca Lake.” A full copy of the letter can be found here. Background: The Toluca Lake Post Office on Riverside Drive closed and suspended service on August 1, 2025. Until a new Post Office opens, P.O. Boxes and Retail Services have been moved to the Chandler Post Office – approximately 2.5 miles away from the original Toluca Lake Post Office. Congresswoman Rivas and her office have communicated with USPS and Toluca Lake residents regarding the closure of the Toluca Lake Post Office. This includes hearing residents' concerns about the Toluca Lake Post Office closure and USPS’s new location on Camarillo Street. Congresswoman Rivas’ office first relayed these concerns to USPS in July 2025, shortly before the original Toluca Lake Post Office closed. Additionally, Congresswoman Rivas met with the Toluca Lake Chamber of Commerce to hear about the impact the closure and relocation of the Toluca Lake Post Office would have on local businesses and residents. USPS secured a new location for a Toluca Lake Post Office in January 2026. USPS completed construction on the Camarillo Street location before receiving a commitment letter from LADWP ensuring that power would be supplied to the building, resulting in logistical challenges. On March 24, 2026, Congresswoman Rivas and her staff facilitated a meeting between USPS and LADWP. During this meeting, LADWP explained to USPS that there were delays in submitting the necessary architectural plans to finalize the electric meter installation of the new location. To install an electric meter, the transformer that services power to the building needs to be tested to ensure it has the capability to service the new business. This is a process that needs to be completed prior to construction. However, USPS proceeded to build without ensuring the transformer had been tested. Because of this, LADWP informed USPS about a possible delay of up to two years. Shortly after the meeting between LADWP and USPS, Congresswoman Rivas and her office inquired for a new location to better serve Toluca Lake residents. Currently, there are ongoing conversations between the entitles involved, as well as Congresswoman Rivas’ office. As Congresswoman Rivas and her office continue to work toward a permanent new location for the Toluca Lake Post Office that best serves residents, Toluca Lake residents are encouraged to share their concerns and recommendations related with her office at (818) 253-3535. ###

LOS ANGELES — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) joined Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-12), House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar (CA-33), Committee on House Administration Ranking Member Joseph D. Morelle (NY-25), and House Democratic Caucus colleagues in a shadow field hearing in Los Angeles on the Trump Administration’s assault on our democracy and barriers to free and fair elections. “This Administration has repeatedly manufactured lies about voter fraud, challenged the integrity of our elections, and placed barriers between voters and the ballot box. Now, communities like mine in the San Fernando Valley are facing the possibility of ICE being stationed at polling locations in the area.” said Congresswoman Rivas. “ICE’s presence in our communities has nothing to do with safety, and all to do with fulfilling this Administration’s anti-immigrant agenda. Their attempts to intimidate our communities and interfere with our elections threatens the very foundation of our democracy. “Today’s hearing focused on what we can do to make sure that our democracy can survive in the face of attacks from Trump and Republicans in Congress. I will continue working with my Democratic colleagues to preserve our democracy and make sure everyone’s right to vote is protected.” Background: Congresswoman Luz Rivas joined Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-12, Chair of the House Democratic Caucus Pete Aguilar (CA-33), and Committee on House Administration Ranking Member Joseph D. Morelle (NY-25), and other Members of the House Democratic Caucus for a shadow field hearing on the Trump Administration’s assault on free and fair elections. This field hearing discussed how House Democrats are working to protect American democracy, including election security and voting rights, through combatting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at polling locations and Trump’s SAVE America Act. Witnesses spoke to the impact of voter suppression and constitutional violations. Witnesses: Jenny Farrell; Executive Director, League of Women Voters of California Darius Kemp; Executive Director, Common Cause California Justin Levitt; Professor of Law, Loyola Law School Hector Villagra; Vice President of Policy Advocacy & Community Education, Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund Sonni Waknin; Senior Staff Attorney, UCLA Voting Rights Project On February 11, 2026, Congresswoman Rivas joined 212 of her House Democratic colleagues in voting against the SAVE America Act. Congresswoman Rivas previously voted against the SAVE Act on April 10, 2025. ###

LOS ANGELES — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29), daughter of immigrants and the first Latina to represent California’s 29th Congressional District, released the following statement after the Supreme Court heard arguments for Trump v. Barbara, a case challenging Donald Trump’s illegal Executive Order to revoke birthright citizenship: “I am a daughter of immigrant parents, and I come from a community of immigrants. Like many families I grew up with in the San Fernando Valley, my mom came to this country so that her kids can have a better life and their own chance to pursue their American Dream. I now have the honor of representing the community of immigrants I grew up with in Congress. “Today’s Supreme Court hearing on birthright citizenship will have serious legal and personal consequences for many of my constituents and millions of Americans. If birthright citizenship is ended, the Constitution will no longer be the law of the land. Millions of Americans, including over 4 million children, will not be recognized as citizens in the only country they have ever known. Our legacy as a nation built by and for immigrants will be diminished if the Supreme Court sides with Trump and his anti-immigrant policies. “Additionally, a sitting U.S. President has never sat in on a Supreme Court hearing in our country’s history – but Trump broke over 200 years of precedent to intimidate their decision. I am deeply disturbed at Trump’s dirty tactics to influence the Supreme Court into changing the Constitution to favor his illegal Executive Order. “The Constitution is clear: anyone born in the United States is a United States citizen. Donald Trump does not get to rewrite our Constitution to redefine who is and is not an American. I will continue to fight against Donald Trump’s illegal orders and political stunts for the dignity of immigrant communities and their rightful place in the American story.” Background: On April 1, 2026, the Supreme Court of the United States heard Barbara v. Trump. This case is regarding the compliance of President Trump’s Executive Order 14160, which restricts birthright citizenship in the United States. Executive Order 14160 was signed on January 20, 2025, by President Donald Trump to deny children born in the United States from acquiring U.S. citizenship if the child's parent is in the U.S. Trump v. Barbara could determine whether children born in the U.S. are guaranteed citizenship under the Constitution. A final decision is expected in late June or early July. Congresswoman Luz Rivas joined over 200 of her House and Senate Democratic colleagues in filing an amicus brief standing up to Trump’s Executive Order. Congresswoman Luz Rivas is a co-sponsor on Congresswoman Delia Ramirez’s Born in the USA Act, which prevents funds from being used to implement Trump’s Executive Order. ###

WASHINGTON, D.C. — For the third time this calendar year, Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) voted against House Republicans’ bill to provide additional funding for President Trump’s U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and force Transportation Security Agency (TSA) workers to miss another pay period. “The Senate unanimously passed a bill to pay TSA workers and fund other essential services – but not ICE. House Democrats and I were ready to pass that bill, pay TSA workers, and end the long airport lines travelers have been waiting in. “House Republicans refused to cooperate, and they are choosing to prolong their own shutdown and force workers at TSA, the Coast Guard, and other key agencies to miss another paycheck. These workers have already gone 42 days without a paycheck. House Republicans are hell-bent on unleashing ICE into our communities and do not care one bit that TSA workers will struggle for another pay period or that travelers will be forced to wait in longer airport lines. “For months, Democrats have been fighting to protect our communities from a rogue ICE that continues to be a threat and should not get a free pass to operate without accountability or oversight. Our communities – especially mine in the San Fernando Valley – will not truly be safe unless ICE is out of our streets and abolished.” ###