Julia Brownley

Marine Mammal Climate Change Protection Act of 2026

in committee

Reproductive Freedom for Veterans Act

in committee

Dental Care for Veterans Act

in committee

“Ms. BROWNLEY. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Gene Fisher, whose exceptional leadership and tireless advocacy as Co-Chair and Executive Director of the Regional Defense Partnership have strengthened Ventura County's defense community, bolstered our regional economy, and ensured that our military installations remain resilient and mission-ready. Under Gene's leadership, the Regional Defense Partnership has served as Ventura County's community-based organization supporting our military installations and commands as essential assets to our national security and key contributors to our local economy. During periods of uncertainty and significant challenges, including threats of base realignment, downsizing, and evolving defense priorities, Gene was a steady and trusted leader who helped ensure that Naval Base Ventura County continued to thrive as the county's largest employer, generating an estimated $4.6 billion annually and supporting more than 24,000 military, civilian, and contractor jobs. Throughout his tenure, Gene represented the interests of Naval Base Ventura County with distinction, communicating its needs and priorities to local government leaders, educational institutions, and business partners, while building enduring partnerships among military commands, public agencies, and the private sector. His deep commitment to both the base and our community is evident in his work to ensure that Ventura County's infrastructure, workforce, and expertise continue to meet the evolving demands of 21st century national defense. Among his many accomplishments, Gene led the Regional Defense Partnership's efforts to expand Naval Base Ventura County from approximately 70 to 110 commands, helped secure funding and legislative support to enhance critical capabilities such as the Center for Maritime Directed Energy Testing, and worked to ensure that Ventura County remains at the forefront of advanced defense innovation and collaboration. Of particular importance to me is Gene's genuine passion for fostering cooperation and partnership. In addition to his many other community-focused initiatives, he convened monthly joint military-- community meetings, creating an essential forum for dialogue, coordination, and mutual support among base leadership, local stakeholders, and elected officials. As he steps down from this role, I am proud to join our community in recognizing Gene's 27 years of dedicated public service and his extraordinary contributions to preserving the defense, economic, and technological vitality of the County of Ventura. Mr. Speaker, it is with great admiration and respect that I recognize Gene Fisher for his steadfast leadership and for the lasting impact he has had on our community. ____________________”

2026-02-20 · Defense

“Ms. BROWNLEY. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Coalition for Family Harmony as it celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of unwavering service, compassion, and commitment to protecting survivors, rebuilding lives, and strengthening families across Ventura County. For half a century, the Coalition for Family Harmony has stood as a lifeline for those in crisis and a guiding light for survivors seeking safety, strength, and healing. Since 1976, the Coalition has provided life-saving and life-changing support to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. Based in Ventura County and operating the county's only rape crisis center, the Coalition helps survivors rebuild their lives and create healthier, safer futures. Through its tireless work, the Coalition not only restores hope and independence but also helps end the patterns of abuse that have long harmed families and communities. What began as a small grassroots effort to provide safety and shelter has grown into a steadfast source of care, understanding, and healing for our community. Over the course of five decades, the Coalition has gone far beyond providing shelter and counseling. It has offered a path forward. Out of the bleakest of moments, the Coalition has provided survivors light, and in their most difficult hours, it has been there with the support that many never knew was possible. Through its 24-hour bilingual crisis hotline, community education, prevention programs, and trauma-informed services, the Coalition has made it possible for survivors and their loved ones to rebuild their lives with dignity and resilience. This extraordinary work would not be possible without the dedicated staff, volunteers, and advocates who carry out a mission that truly changes lives. Their compassion, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to justice have touched countless individuals and strengthened our entire community. As the Coalition celebrates this remarkable milestone during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we are reminded that its mission to build stronger, safer, and more resilient families has never been more vital. Mr. Speaker, it is with deep admiration and heartfelt gratitude that I recognize the Coalition for Family Harmony for fifty years of extraordinary service. I thank every staff member, volunteer, and supporter who has carried this mission forward for being a beacon of hope and healing in Ventura County and beyond. [[Page E1077]] ____________________”

2025-11-17 · Civil Rights

“Ms. BROWNLEY. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Channel Islands Harbor, which is celebrating 60 years of rich history, vibrant community, and natural beauty. This beautiful gem in my district is Ventura County's first-ever recreational harbor, nestled between the cities of Port Hueneme and Ventura. Since its grand opening to the public on Memorial Day in 1965, the Channel Islands Harbor has helped transform our region into an economic engine for both the state and the nation. Our ports and harbors are vital for driving economic growth, spurring job creation, uplifting small businesses, fostering community engagement, generating tourism, protecting coastal ecosystems, and so much more. Throughout my time in Congress, I have worked closely with local leaders and community stakeholders to ensure the harbor remains fully operational and accessible. I am proud to have secured millions in federal funding to meet the harbor's dredging needs, combat coastal erosion, and keep the harbor accessible to the commercial fishing industry, supply chain businesses, and the general public. Thanks to our shared commitment to the dredging and maintenance of Channel Islands Harbor, nearly 1,500 harbor vessels. including the Channel Islands National Park ferries, commercial fishing vessels, and private boaters have safe and unrestricted access between the open ocean, Ventura Harbor, and the Ventura Keys. For over 60 years, the Channel Islands Harbor has given us breathtaking access to our scenic ocean and stunning natural landscapes, welcomed tourists to experience the quintessential California dream with us, and captured the splendor of California's 26th Congressional District to its fullest--all while strengthening our local economy. Today, the Channel Islands Harbor continues to play an invaluable role in making Ventura County a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. I am proud to mark the 60th anniversary of the Channel Islands Harbor, and I join our community in honoring this iconic local landmark. ____________________”

2025-07-17 · Economy