Alex Padilla

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to introduce the Fire Suppression Improvement Act and the Post Fire Flooding and Debris Flow Act. Currently, the Fire Management Assistance Grant, FMAG, Program is available to State, local, and Tribal governments for the mitigation, management, and control of fires that threaten such destruction that they would constitute a major disaster. However, under current law, FMAGs can only be used to reimburse expenses incurred after it is granted. The Fire Suppression Improvement Act would explicitly allow for State or local governments to use FMAGs for the predeployment of assets and resources. These predeployed assets are critical to suppression of fires and are sometimes the only way to contain a fire before it gets out of hand and needs a major disaster declaration. This bill would simply allow for FMAGs to help State and local governments cover the cost of fighting incidents from the beginning of the high-risk event. Additionally, this bill would make FMAGs consistent with other FEMA disaster assistance by stating that the Federal cost share of FMAGs shall be not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost of such assistance. This bill does not mandate any cost share increase but simply allows for flexibility. FMAGS are granted on an incident-by- incident basis, and as we have seen across the West, fires often occur in the same area consecutively in the same year. Wildfires leave behind severe vegetation loss and soil exposure in the form of burn scars, which can cause destructive and large-scale flooding and debris flow when exposed to rainfall. Sudden and deadly postfire events of this type are well documented throughout the Western United States, particularly in Southern California. These events are one of the most dangerous postfire hazards and pose a serious threat to life and property and have the possibility to block drainage ways and damage public infrastructure. The Post Fire Flooding and Debris Flow Act would explicitly include mitigating and preventing postwildfire flooding and debris flow as eligible under FEMA's HMGP. This inclusion would allow for State and local governments to act quickly when storms are incoming to protect property, public infrastructure, and lives. This bill would also make HMGP consistent with other FEMA disaster assistance by stating that the Federal cost share of HMGP shall be not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost of such assistance. This bill does not mandate any increase but simply allows for flexibility and increased federal assistance where necessary. As States and local governments continue to step up, respond, and work to recover from more frequent and more dangerous fires, it is imperative that the Federal Government has the flexibility to adequately support them. These two bills represent commonsense steps forward to meet the current crisis facing the Western United States and to better support initial suppression efforts and postfire risk reduction.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to introduce the Fire Suppression Improvement Act and the Post Fire Flooding and Debris Flow Act. Currently, the Fire Management Assistance Grant, FMAG, Program is available to State, local, and Tribal governments for the mitigation, management, and control of fires that threaten such destruction that they would constitute a major disaster. However, under current law, FMAGs can only be used to reimburse expenses incurred after it is granted. The Fire Suppression Improvement Act would explicitly allow for State or local governments to use FMAGs for the predeployment of assets and resources. These predeployed assets are critical to suppression of fires and are sometimes the only way to contain a fire before it gets out of hand and needs a major disaster declaration. This bill would simply allow for FMAGs to help State and local governments cover the cost of fighting incidents from the beginning of the high-risk event. Additionally, this bill would make FMAGs consistent with other FEMA disaster assistance by stating that the Federal cost share of FMAGs shall be not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost of such assistance. This bill does not mandate any cost share increase but simply allows for flexibility. FMAGS are granted on an incident-by- incident basis, and as we have seen across the West, fires often occur in the same area consecutively in the same year. Wildfires leave behind severe vegetation loss and soil exposure in the form of burn scars, which can cause destructive and large-scale flooding and debris flow when exposed to rainfall. Sudden and deadly postfire events of this type are well documented throughout the Western United States, particularly in Southern California. These events are one of the most dangerous postfire hazards and pose a serious threat to life and property and have the possibility to block drainage ways and damage public infrastructure. The Post Fire Flooding and Debris Flow Act would explicitly include mitigating and preventing postwildfire flooding and debris flow as eligible under FEMA's HMGP. This inclusion would allow for State and local governments to act quickly when storms are incoming to protect property, public infrastructure, and lives. This bill would also make HMGP consistent with other FEMA disaster assistance by stating that the Federal cost share of HMGP shall be not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost of such assistance. This bill does not mandate any increase but simply allows for flexibility and increased federal assistance where necessary. As States and local governments continue to step up, respond, and work to recover from more frequent and more dangerous fires, it is imperative that the Federal Government has the flexibility to adequately support them. These two bills represent commonsense steps forward to meet the current crisis facing the Western United States and to better support initial suppression efforts and postfire risk reduction.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the Advanced Aviation Infrastructure Modernization Act, which I introduced today. Next-generation propulsion aircraft, including electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, are poised to revolutionize how people and cargo move within and between cities, suburban, and rural areas. These advanced air mobility technologies also present the potential to transform how we link historically underserved communities and deploy a new type of transportation that does not require physical roads or rails. As localities, regions, and States consider how to integrate the advent of these technologies and the opportunities to relieve traffic congestion and improve mobility options, a modest Federal investment can help communities ensure that cutting-edge, clean, quiet aviation technologies can be best integrated into existing and future transportation networks. That is why I am proud to introduce this bill to help States and localities keep pace with this growing sector. It would establish a pilot program to help State, local, and Tribal governments to prepare for anticipated advanced air mobility operations and ensure communities can take advantage of the potential benefits of the safe integration of these technologies in our Nation's airspace. I want to thank Senator Moran for coleading this bill with me, and I hope our colleagues will join us in support of this bill that will help communities prepare for the development and deployment of advanced air mobility technologies and related infrastructure.

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the University Centers for Growth, Development, and Prosperity Act, which I introduced today. The U.S. Economic Development Administration created the University Center Program to allow institutions of higher education and consortia to establish and maintain university centers, with the understanding that our higher education institutions play a critical role in our Nation's economic growth. University centers are Federal partnerships that leverage the assets of higher learning institutions to strengthen regional economic growth by promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation. They encourage economic development in economically distressed regions, which helps spur job growth, high-skilled regional talent pools, and business expansion. Despite EDA's important work, many communities across the country have yet to benefit from the Agency's programs, including smaller communities, communities of color, and rural areas experiencing higher rates of poverty. The current University Center Program is not specifically authorized by Congress and is instead part of EDA's Technical Assistance Program. That is why I am proud to introduce legislation that would codify and expand the University Center Program, leverage more resources for minority-serving institutions, and support a greater diversity of innovation and entrepreneurship in their communities. California has thriving institutions, including Chico State and Fresno State, that will be able to scale their impact with new resources. By prioritizing the establishment of new university centers at colleges and universities that serve significant populations of underserved students, we can strengthen regional economies and help close the racial wealth gap. Specifically, the bill establishes an EDA University Center Program to help universities collaborate with economic development districts, trade adjustment assistance centers, and other economic development technical assistance and service providers to develop and implement comprehensive economic development strategies and other economic development planning at the local, regional, and State levels, with a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development. It also prioritizes the participation of minority-serving institutions as part of the University Center Program. Minority-serving institutions provide incredible opportunities for so many low-income and first-generation students. I am proud that my State of California is home to 174 Hispanic-serving institutions and 51 emerging Hispanic- serving institutions the highest amount in the country. As a Senator representing one of the most diverse States in the country, I am proud to work with my colleagues to ensure that we work to improve the equity of EDA programming and help increase the participation of minority-serving institutions. I want to thank Congressman Pete Aguilar for introducing this bill with me, and I hope our colleagues will join us in support of this effort.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, for many people--not just here in and around the Capitol but across the country--the past few weeks have been a wake-up call--a wake-up call to see the stakes of our fight for a fair judiciary. From abortion rights to free speech to gun violence, Federal judges make countless decisions that impact our daily lives. We have been reminded of that in a very significant way. But our current Federal bench is not representative of the diversity of our country and our democracy. We have a lot of work to do to rebuild the judiciary in a way that deserves the faith of the American people, to build a judiciary that reflects and represents the diverse Nation that it serves. I know we have talked about it before. We have been chipping away at it, not just through the Judiciary Committee but through a number of circuit court judges and district court judges across the country, including in California. I am certainly proud of the significant step that we took recently with the confirmation of soon-to-be Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. But for all the progress we have made this last year, we still have a lot of work to do, especially at the lower court level, where almost all Federal cases are heard. Many are decided there, and that is it. That is why I continue to work closely with the Biden administration to recommend and support talented nominees for California's district courts--nominees who will bring a wide range of professional and lived experiences to the Federal bench. So, today, I rise to highlight three outstanding nominees to California's district courts. First, the Senate will soon vote on the confirmation of Judge Trina Thompson to become a judge for the Northern District of California. Judge Thompson has deep roots serving the community of Alameda County. After earning her undergraduate degree and her JD from UC Berkeley, she began her legal career with the Alameda County Public Defender's Office; and, eventually, she built a successful solo practice in criminal defense. Over the next decade, she handled dozens of criminal trials, and she continued to work with the county public defender's office to take on pro bono clients in the community. A legal trailblazer, Judge Thompson became the first Black woman to win election to serve as a judge in Alameda County. She has continuously demonstrated her sense of fairness, her commitment to justice, and her dedication to the rule of law. I know that Judge Thompson will continue to pave the road for equal justice on the Northern District bench. I urge my colleagues to support her nomination. Second, the Senate will also soon vote on Judge Sunshine Sykes' confirmation to become a judge for the Central District of California. A member of the Coyote Pass Clan of the Navajo Nation, Judge Sykes is devoted to pursuing justice, especially for those who have too often been left behind by the legal system. Judge Sykes earned her undergraduate degree and her JD from Stanford University. After law school, she chose to begin her legal career working for the California Indian Legal Services. There, she built a tremendous reputation as a skillful adviser and advocate for Tribes on a wide range of legal matters, from addressing domestic violence to developing Tribal courts and preserving cultural resources. She also developed an important expertise in juvenile dependency cases under the Indian Child Welfare Act. Recognizing Judge Sykes' outstanding work, then Governor Jerry Brown appointed her to the California Superior Court in 2013. Over the past 9 years, she has presided over nearly 100 cases. She will bring an impressive legal record, work ethic, and an appropriate sense of empathy to her judgeship in the central district. If confirmed, Judge Sykes will also be the first Native American to ever serve on a Federal court in California. I will remind us that California is home to more federally recognized Native American Tribes than any State in the Nation. I look forward to her distinguished service in the central district. Finally, I would like to speak for a moment, as well, about Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett, who was confirmed last month to serve on the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. Judge Garnett brings an outstanding record as a lawyer, as a jurist, and a public servant committed to equal justice. Judge Garnett earned her undergraduate degree from UC Riverside and her JD from Harvard Law School. After starting her career in private practice, Judge Garnett became an assistant U.S. attorney for the Central District of California. She spent 13 years serving that office, earning numerous awards and rising to a number of leadership positions. Recognizing her hard work and record of excellence as a litigator, Governor Brown appointed Judge Garnett to the Los Angeles Superior Court in 2014. For 8 years, she served with distinction as a superior court judge and a justice pro tem on the California Court of Appeal. She now brings this experience to the Federal bench as a judge for the central district. Voices like hers--and the voices like that of Judge Thompson and Judge Sykes--have been left out of the judiciary for far too long. All three of these nominations of outstanding women, women of color, represent important progress. So I celebrate each of these jurists, and I thank them for their willingness to serve. With each of their confirmations, we take another important step closer to the fair judiciary that this Nation deserves, toward the justice system that our democracy deserves. Mr. President, I am so proud of the progress we have made in California. I look forward to working with you and our colleagues and with the Biden administration to continue this important work. With that, I yield the floor.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the University Centers for Growth, Development, and Prosperity Act, which I introduced today. The U.S. Economic Development Administration created the University Center Program to allow institutions of higher education and consortia to establish and maintain university centers, with the understanding that our higher education institutions play a critical role in our Nation's economic growth. University centers are Federal partnerships that leverage the assets of higher learning institutions to strengthen regional economic growth by promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation. They encourage economic development in economically distressed regions, which helps spur job growth, high-skilled regional talent pools, and business expansion. Despite EDA's important work, many communities across the country have yet to benefit from the Agency's programs, including smaller communities, communities of color, and rural areas experiencing higher rates of poverty. The current University Center Program is not specifically authorized by Congress and is instead part of EDA's Technical Assistance Program. That is why I am proud to introduce legislation that would codify and expand the University Center Program, leverage more resources for minority-serving institutions, and support a greater diversity of innovation and entrepreneurship in their communities. California has thriving institutions, including Chico State and Fresno State, that will be able to scale their impact with new resources. By prioritizing the establishment of new university centers at colleges and universities that serve significant populations of underserved students, we can strengthen regional economies and help close the racial wealth gap. Specifically, the bill establishes an EDA University Center Program to help universities collaborate with economic development districts, trade adjustment assistance centers, and other economic development technical assistance and service providers to develop and implement comprehensive economic development strategies and other economic development planning at the local, regional, and State levels, with a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development. It also prioritizes the participation of minority-serving institutions as part of the University Center Program. Minority-serving institutions provide incredible opportunities for so many low-income and first-generation students. I am proud that my State of California is home to 174 Hispanic-serving institutions and 51 emerging Hispanic- serving institutions the highest amount in the country. As a Senator representing one of the most diverse States in the country, I am proud to work with my colleagues to ensure that we work to improve the equity of EDA programming and help increase the participation of minority-serving institutions. I want to thank Congressman Pete Aguilar for introducing this bill with me, and I hope our colleagues will join us in support of this effort.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the Advanced Aviation Infrastructure Modernization Act, which I introduced today. Next-generation propulsion aircraft, including electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, are poised to revolutionize how people and cargo move within and between cities, suburban, and rural areas. These advanced air mobility technologies also present the potential to transform how we link historically underserved communities and deploy a new type of transportation that does not require physical roads or rails. As localities, regions, and States consider how to integrate the advent of these technologies and the opportunities to relieve traffic congestion and improve mobility options, a modest Federal investment can help communities ensure that cutting-edge, clean, quiet aviation technologies can be best integrated into existing and future transportation networks. That is why I am proud to introduce this bill to help States and localities keep pace with this growing sector. It would establish a pilot program to help State, local, and Tribal governments to prepare for anticipated advanced air mobility operations and ensure communities can take advantage of the potential benefits of the safe integration of these technologies in our Nation's airspace. I want to thank Senator Moran for coleading this bill with me, and I hope our colleagues will join us in support of this bill that will help communities prepare for the development and deployment of advanced air mobility technologies and related infrastructure.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the Equal COLA Act, which I introduced today. The Federal Government's workforce is central to protecting our national security and delivering critical services to hundreds of millions of Americans. As such, it is essential that the Federal Government attract and retain an effective workforce and, once their service is complete, ensure retirees receive the dignified retirement that they deserve. Unfortunately, in 1986, Congress created a two-tiered system that now prevents nearly 800,000 retired Federal employees from receiving a full cost-of-living adjustment when consumer prices increase more than 2 percent from year to year. In January, some Federal retirees received 5.9 percent COLA. However, other Federal retirees received only a 4.9 percent increase due to this policy, which fails to protect retired employees who are living on a fixed income. That is why I am proud to introduce this legislation to fix this unfair system and ensure that all retired Federal employees receive full retirement benefits that keep up with the cost of living. I hope my colleagues will join me in support of this bill to ensure that retired Federal employees no longer pay the price of a misguided law and that their benefits fully keep pace with the cost of living.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the Equal COLA Act, which I introduced today. The Federal Government's workforce is central to protecting our national security and delivering critical services to hundreds of millions of Americans. As such, it is essential that the Federal Government attract and retain an effective workforce and, once their service is complete, ensure retirees receive the dignified retirement that they deserve. Unfortunately, in 1986, Congress created a two-tiered system that now prevents nearly 800,000 retired Federal employees from receiving a full cost-of-living adjustment when consumer prices increase more than 2 percent from year to year. In January, some Federal retirees received 5.9 percent COLA. However, other Federal retirees received only a 4.9 percent increase due to this policy, which fails to protect retired employees who are living on a fixed income. That is why I am proud to introduce this legislation to fix this unfair system and ensure that all retired Federal employees receive full retirement benefits that keep up with the cost of living. I hope my colleagues will join me in support of this bill to ensure that retired Federal employees no longer pay the price of a misguided law and that their benefits fully keep pace with the cost of living.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Madam President, if there is no further business to come before the Senate, I ask unanimous consent that it stand in recess under the previous order.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Madam President and colleagues, this past week, following the leaked Supreme Court opinion that threatens to overturn Roe v. Wade, thousands of Californians have reached out to my office in the form of phone calls, in the form of letters, and in the form of emails, all to voice their support for the right to choose. It is abundantly clear that Congress must pass the Women's Health Protection Act and codify the right to an abortion into Federal law. Countless Californians and other Americans have spoken up--many in public, many in private--to share their own abortion stories. Think about the students who want to finish high school before starting a family. Think of survivors of sexual assault, whose abortion reaffirmed their right to choose for their own bodies. Think of parents who desperately wanted a child but, upon becoming pregnant, learned the devastating news about dangerous health risks associated with that pregnancy. Think of the women whose lives were saved by an abortion, because abortion is often critical medical care. And think about women who remember a time a half a century ago, before Roe v. Wade secured this right, a time when--don't get me wrong--abortion still happened, but they were unsafe secrets at the time, when women risked their lives for the choice that they needed. I believe that the right to an abortion is a fundamental right, and I am proud to represent a State that fiercely defends abortion access. California is committed to safe, respectful abortion care for all who need it. That is why Californians have stepped up this year, with some even traveling to aid women who were threatened by SB 8, the Texas law that prohibits abortion at 6 weeks. This is the very law that Senator Cortez Masto just referenced a few minutes ago, and it is why so many Californians are speaking up now. We know that your right to choose should not end at a State border, and it certainly shouldn't rely on your income or your transportation options or whether or not you can afford to take time off from work. All across America, a strong majority support a woman's right to make her own healthcare decisions. We can't stand by and watch while rightwing politicians and judges seem to roll back the clock on women's rights. That is why I am voting for the Women's Health Protection Act and why I urge each and every one of you to do the same. We must secure the right to abortion nationwide. We must protect the fundamental rights of women across the country--not just in a few States but across the country. Congress can and must do this by passing the Women's Health Protection Act.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that notwithstanding rule XXII, at a time to be determined by the majority leader in consultation with the Republican leader, the Senate proceed to executive session to consider the following nominations en bloc: Calendar Nos. 807 and 809; that there be 2 hours for debate equally divided in the usual form on the nominations en bloc; that upon the use or yielding back of time, the Senate vote without intervening action or debate on the nominations in the order listed; that, if confirmed, the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table with no intervening action or debate; that any related statements be printed in the Record; that the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action and the Senate then resume legislative session.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that when the Senate completes its business today, it recess until 10 a.m., Wednesday, May 11; that following the prayer and pledge, the Journal of proceedings be approved to date and the Senate proceed to executive session to resume consideration of the motion to discharge the Sweeney nomination, as provided under the previous order; further, that if any nominations are confirmed during Wednesday's session, the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table and the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action.

Mr. PADILLA. Madam President, for the information of Senators, there will be two rollcall votes at 11 a.m., up to three rollcall votes at 2:30 p.m., with additional rollcall votes in the evening.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the ``Encouraging Small Business Innovation Act,'' which I introduced today. During National Small Business Week, we are celebrating the resiliency of our Nation's entrepreneurs who are leading our economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. To promote a strong recovery for the 32.5 million small businesses across the country, Congress should bolster Federal programs that support these entrepreneurs and innovators. For more than 40 years, the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Programs have spurred innovation, job creation, and economic growth. These programs have generated breakthroughs in a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, defense, energy, healthcare, and transportation. Today, the Small Business Administration and 11 participating Federal Agencies leverage the SBIR and STTR Programs to help small innovative firms explore their potential and increase the commercialization of innovations arising out of Federal research and development. While these critical programs have invested more than $40 billion in small businesses, many firms, especially those that are minority- or women-owned, still face considerable barriers to participation. As we look to spur innovation and drive small business growth, Congress should improve the diversity of these programs, enhance access to capital, and expand the eligible uses of funds to better support the needs of U.S. small businesses. That is why I am proud to introduce this bill to increase the effectiveness of the SBIR and STTR Programs by improving diversity, enhancing access to capital, and expanding the eligible uses of funds. This bill would direct participating Federal Agencies to use a portion of their SBIR allocation to conduct outreach and provide technical assistance to underserved populations and states. It would also allow Small Business Investment Companies to participate as investors in SBIR and STTR projects and permanently add testing and evaluation activities permanently as an eligible expense, which can be resource-intensive for small firms, across all relevant agencies. Additionally, this bill would require participating Federal Agencies to conduct a joint annual meeting to share best practices for improving data collection and streamlining processes across the programs. I hope my colleagues will join me in support of this bill to improve the effectiveness of the SBIR and STTR Programs.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the ``Encouraging Small Business Innovation Act,'' which I introduced today. During National Small Business Week, we are celebrating the resiliency of our Nation's entrepreneurs who are leading our economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. To promote a strong recovery for the 32.5 million small businesses across the country, Congress should bolster Federal programs that support these entrepreneurs and innovators. For more than 40 years, the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Programs have spurred innovation, job creation, and economic growth. These programs have generated breakthroughs in a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, defense, energy, healthcare, and transportation. Today, the Small Business Administration and 11 participating Federal Agencies leverage the SBIR and STTR Programs to help small innovative firms explore their potential and increase the commercialization of innovations arising out of Federal research and development. While these critical programs have invested more than $40 billion in small businesses, many firms, especially those that are minority- or women-owned, still face considerable barriers to participation. As we look to spur innovation and drive small business growth, Congress should improve the diversity of these programs, enhance access to capital, and expand the eligible uses of funds to better support the needs of U.S. small businesses. That is why I am proud to introduce this bill to increase the effectiveness of the SBIR and STTR Programs by improving diversity, enhancing access to capital, and expanding the eligible uses of funds. This bill would direct participating Federal Agencies to use a portion of their SBIR allocation to conduct outreach and provide technical assistance to underserved populations and states. It would also allow Small Business Investment Companies to participate as investors in SBIR and STTR projects and permanently add testing and evaluation activities permanently as an eligible expense, which can be resource-intensive for small firms, across all relevant agencies. Additionally, this bill would require participating Federal Agencies to conduct a joint annual meeting to share best practices for improving data collection and streamlining processes across the programs. I hope my colleagues will join me in support of this bill to improve the effectiveness of the SBIR and STTR Programs.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to introduce the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument Expansion Act. This legislation would expand the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument to include approximately 3,925 acres of adjacent public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management. In 2015, President Obama established the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, proclaiming that ``once covered by ocean waters, it is a landscape shaped by geologic forces of staggering power overlain with bountiful but fragile biodiversity. Anchored in the north by Snow Mountain's remote forests and in the south by scenic Berryessa Mountain, this area stretches through unbroken wildlands and important wildlife corridors, a mosaic of native grasslands, picturesque oak woodlands, rare wetlands, and wild chaparral . . . This dramatic and diverse landscape is a biological hotspot providing refuge for rare plant and animal species and showcasing the human history of north- central California.'' The Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument is managed jointly by the Bureau of Land Management, BLM, and the U.S. Forest Service, USFS and provides for unparalleled outdoor recreational opportunities, is home to rich biodiversity, and contains lands that are culturally significant to over two dozen federally recognized tribes. This legislation would add over 3,900 acres of adjacent, BLM-administered land to the existing national monument. This expansion would include portions of the land known previously as Walker Ridge in Lake County, CA. Importantly, the legislation renames ``Walker Ridge'' to ``Condor Ridge,'' which is translated from Molok Luyuk in the indigenous Patwin language. For thousands of years, these sacred lands have been central to Tribal origin stories, and Condor Ridge is an area that retains deep cultural significance to the Patwin people and over two dozen Native American tribes. The legislation also directs the BLM and USFS to complete the management plan for the national monument and to consult with federally recognized Tribes to do so. I am proud that this legislation would better enable federally recognized Tribes to be involved in the day-to-day management of the national monument. This essential, landmark component of the legislation would enable Tribal communities to share their rich history and ecological knowledge to better conserve and care for these lands. With the protections provided by this legislation, the abundant natural resources and the rich history on Molok Luyuk will be preserved for our children and future generations. By requiring the Federal Agencies to finally develop a management plan and by allowing for Tribal governments to be involved in the management of the monument, the bill would improve the health of these lands to benefit both people and biodiversity. I thank Senator Feinstein for introducing this legislation with me, and I thank Congressmen Garamendi and Thompson for spearheading this effort in the House of Representatives. I would also like to thank the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation for their leadership and desire to cooperatively manage ``Molok Luyuk'' to ensure that all Californians and Americans have the opportunity to benefit from these sacred lands. I look forward to working with my colleagues to enact the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument Expansion Act as quickly as possible.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to introduce the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument Expansion Act. This legislation would expand the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument to include approximately 3,925 acres of adjacent public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management. In 2015, President Obama established the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, proclaiming that ``once covered by ocean waters, it is a landscape shaped by geologic forces of staggering power overlain with bountiful but fragile biodiversity. Anchored in the north by Snow Mountain's remote forests and in the south by scenic Berryessa Mountain, this area stretches through unbroken wildlands and important wildlife corridors, a mosaic of native grasslands, picturesque oak woodlands, rare wetlands, and wild chaparral . . . This dramatic and diverse landscape is a biological hotspot providing refuge for rare plant and animal species and showcasing the human history of north- central California.'' The Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument is managed jointly by the Bureau of Land Management, BLM, and the U.S. Forest Service, USFS and provides for unparalleled outdoor recreational opportunities, is home to rich biodiversity, and contains lands that are culturally significant to over two dozen federally recognized tribes. This legislation would add over 3,900 acres of adjacent, BLM-administered land to the existing national monument. This expansion would include portions of the land known previously as Walker Ridge in Lake County, CA. Importantly, the legislation renames ``Walker Ridge'' to ``Condor Ridge,'' which is translated from Molok Luyuk in the indigenous Patwin language. For thousands of years, these sacred lands have been central to Tribal origin stories, and Condor Ridge is an area that retains deep cultural significance to the Patwin people and over two dozen Native American tribes. The legislation also directs the BLM and USFS to complete the management plan for the national monument and to consult with federally recognized Tribes to do so. I am proud that this legislation would better enable federally recognized Tribes to be involved in the day-to-day management of the national monument. This essential, landmark component of the legislation would enable Tribal communities to share their rich history and ecological knowledge to better conserve and care for these lands. With the protections provided by this legislation, the abundant natural resources and the rich history on Molok Luyuk will be preserved for our children and future generations. By requiring the Federal Agencies to finally develop a management plan and by allowing for Tribal governments to be involved in the management of the monument, the bill would improve the health of these lands to benefit both people and biodiversity. I thank Senator Feinstein for introducing this legislation with me, and I thank Congressmen Garamendi and Thompson for spearheading this effort in the House of Representatives. I would also like to thank the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation for their leadership and desire to cooperatively manage ``Molok Luyuk'' to ensure that all Californians and Americans have the opportunity to benefit from these sacred lands. I look forward to working with my colleagues to enact the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument Expansion Act as quickly as possible.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. (English translation of the statement made in Spanish is as follows:) Today, we are celebrating a historic moment. We are celebrating the progress that we made to ensure that the Supreme Court better reflects our country. Judge Jackson is more than qualified and is going to bring important and necessary perspectives to the Supreme Court. Unfortunately, she was attacked by Republicans during her confirmation process; but to every attack, Judge Jackson responded with grace and patience. She showed the country that she will be an exceptional Supreme Court Justice, and she will keep being an inspiration for the next generation. Madam President, Judge--now Justice--Jackson has earned her place on the Supreme Court. I will end by acknowledging that, while one person alone, sitting on a Court of nine equals, can't single-handedly create faith in the institution, I have every confidence that Justice Jackson will strengthen the Supreme Court and help our country progress forward. I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. PADILLA. Madam President, I rise today to celebrate the confirmation of now Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson as a Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States of America. It is an important moment for our country but also a special moment for me because Angela, my wife, and two of our sons are here visiting the Capitol this week. They witnessed history in the making when we voted to confirm, just a few minutes ago, Justice Jackson. Angela and I take great joy in knowing that not just our three sons but young people across the country will see Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson as an example of the great heights that they, too, can achieve. For the very first time in our Nation's history, the Senate has confirmed a Black woman to the Supreme Court of the United States. For only the sixth time, we have confirmed a woman to the Supreme Court, and for the fourth time, we have confirmed a working mother. It is also the first time in 50 years that the Senate has confirmed a Justice with public defense experience. This nomination represents progress, and I am heartened that it was a bipartisan majority of Senators who came together to make history today. I also know that this progress would not have been possible without someone who was brave enough to step ahead on her own; without someone willing to work twice as hard in order to be the first; without someone able to persevere no matter how challenging, how difficult, or how full of doubt her path ahead may sometimes be. It shouldn't have been this hard. As you know, I am a member of the Judiciary Committee, so I can attest that, when then-Judge Jackson came before the committee with an outstanding judicial record, with bipartisan acclaim, and historic qualifications, she came prepared. She did answer a whole range of important questions, and she was forthcoming. She was clear and gracious. Many Senators took the opportunity to engage deeply on issues that will shape the future of our Nation--issues like the role of technology and innovation, voting rights, Tribal sovereignty, and much, much more; but, sadly, as has been referenced, some of our colleagues chose to fill their time with hostility, bad faith, and misleading smears. They chose to hold Judge Jackson to a different standard than other Supreme Court nominees whom they themselves had previously supported. In the same breath as they tried to praise Judge Jackson's character and qualifications, they denigrated her motives; they questioned her impartiality and made up excuse after excuse for why they couldn't support her nomination. It was painful to watch, not just for me but for people across the country. Judge Jackson was in the spotlight for days, but she continually met disrespect with calm composure. It is an experience that is all too common for those with the audacity to break new ground. Judge Jackson was unfairly tested, but she persevered. I believe that Judge Jackson deserved better than the treatment she received during the confirmation process. When you see Senators cast aside their good faith in questioning nominees, the threat to the integrity of our justice system is very real, and the cynicism it breeds for our institutions is real. These are the issues that this Senate and that each Senator must confront. But, today, I want to--and I choose to--celebrate the historic achievement of this confirmation. Over the last few weeks, I have received thousands of letters and emails and other messages, including on social media, from Californians who support Justice Jackson's confirmation. The messages have come from people of all backgrounds and from every corner of my home State. I have heard from Californians who admire the tenacity, the grace, and the integrity that Justice Jackson showed in committee. I have also gotten messages from so many Californians, young Californians, who see themselves in Justice Jackson's story and from Californians who say that the Court and our country will be better because of her service. So, as we cast our historic votes, I celebrate the better America that we are building, wherein our courts better reflect and understand the diverse country that they serve. I celebrate the joy that Justice Jackson has brought to people across not just California but across the Nation. I celebrate the commitment to equal rights and equal justice that she will bring to the Supreme Court; and I celebrate the inspiration that she provides to young people, especially young people of color, who will write the next chapter of our American story. When Judge Jackson introduced herself to the American people in the course of the confirmation hearing in the Judiciary Committee, she said that she stood on the shoulders of the civil rights icon and her personal hero, Judge Constance Baker Motley. For many in the next generation, their hero will be Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. I have shared with others and want to share again today that this confirmation represents one more step toward making our institutions and our courts more inclusive for all Americans. So it is in that spirit that I ask unanimous consent to make a few additional remarks in Spanish.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the Hispanic Educational Resources and Empowerment Act of 2022, which I introduced today. Hispanic-serving institutions provide incredible opportunities for millions of low-income and first-generation students. I am proud that my State of California is home to 174 HSls and 51 emerging HSls, the most in the country. That is why I launched the first-ever Senate HSI Caucus with my colleague, Senator Menendez--to spotlight and advocate for the 559 HSIs across our country. These critical institutions educate our future leaders and help to build a more diverse and inclusive workforce. Over the last 2 years, the number of HSls in our country declined for the first time in two decades. A decrease in higher education enrollment among Latino students during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the decrease in the number of HSls, illustrating the need to invest in Latino youth. That is why I am introducing the HERE Act. If enacted, this bill would support Latino students throughout secondary and postsecondary education. Specifically, the HERE Act would provide $150 million for grants to create partnerships between HSls and K-12 school districts that serve large populations of Latino students. Schools could use this funding to provide academic support that better prepares students for postsecondary education. They could create new programs to foster a college-going culture by exposing students and their families to postsecondary opportunities. And they could better support students through the college application and transition process. Additionally, schools could use grants to address non-academic needs that serve as barriers to college enrollment and completion--such as childcare, food insecurity, financial hardship, and more. Latinos are the largest, youngest, and second fastest growing minority population in the United States. While making up 18 percent of our country's population, Latinos comprise 26 percent of prekindergarten through grade 12 enrollment. Latino students are going to college more than ever before, but they still face lower educational outcomes, including lower grades, lower scores on standardized tests, and higher dropout rates. As a Senator representing one of the most diverse States in the country, I am proud to work with my leagues to ensure the American dream is a reality for every student. I want to thank Congressman Joaquin Castro for introducing this bill with me, and I hope our colleagues will join us in support of this effort to empower Latino youth.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the Hispanic Educational Resources and Empowerment Act of 2022, which I introduced today. Hispanic-serving institutions provide incredible opportunities for millions of low-income and first-generation students. I am proud that my State of California is home to 174 HSls and 51 emerging HSls, the most in the country. That is why I launched the first-ever Senate HSI Caucus with my colleague, Senator Menendez--to spotlight and advocate for the 559 HSIs across our country. These critical institutions educate our future leaders and help to build a more diverse and inclusive workforce. Over the last 2 years, the number of HSls in our country declined for the first time in two decades. A decrease in higher education enrollment among Latino students during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the decrease in the number of HSls, illustrating the need to invest in Latino youth. That is why I am introducing the HERE Act. If enacted, this bill would support Latino students throughout secondary and postsecondary education. Specifically, the HERE Act would provide $150 million for grants to create partnerships between HSls and K-12 school districts that serve large populations of Latino students. Schools could use this funding to provide academic support that better prepares students for postsecondary education. They could create new programs to foster a college-going culture by exposing students and their families to postsecondary opportunities. And they could better support students through the college application and transition process. Additionally, schools could use grants to address non-academic needs that serve as barriers to college enrollment and completion--such as childcare, food insecurity, financial hardship, and more. Latinos are the largest, youngest, and second fastest growing minority population in the United States. While making up 18 percent of our country's population, Latinos comprise 26 percent of prekindergarten through grade 12 enrollment. Latino students are going to college more than ever before, but they still face lower educational outcomes, including lower grades, lower scores on standardized tests, and higher dropout rates. As a Senator representing one of the most diverse States in the country, I am proud to work with my leagues to ensure the American dream is a reality for every student. I want to thank Congressman Joaquin Castro for introducing this bill with me, and I hope our colleagues will join us in support of this effort to empower Latino youth.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Expansion Act and the Accelerating Small Business Growth Act, which I introduced today. The unprecedented investment in American infrastructure over the next decade provides a major opportunity to strengthen our most underserved businesses and communities. Providing resources to help develop women- owned, minority-owned, and disadvantaged businesses will uplift our entire economy, and it is how we truly build back better. Last year, President Biden set a goal of increasing the share of Federal contracts going to small, disadvantaged businesses by 50 percent by 2025, which would translate to an additional $100 billion for these businesses. To help accomplish this ambitious goal, we should empower Federal, State, and local agencies to deliver resources to underserved businesses to help them become self-sufficient and grow. Established in 1970, the Federal Highway Administration's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Program already provides training, assistance, and services to minority- and women- owned businesses to help them develop into self-sufficient organizations that viably compete for federally assisted highway project contracts. Unfortunately, Congress has not allowed this program to keep up with the needs of our underserved businesses. The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Expansion Act would increase this program's annual funding cap for the first time in nearly 50 years from $10 million to $25 million. Additionally, the bill would create similar programs at the Federal Aviation Administration and the Federal Transit Administration. Local, regional, and State agencies have also been leaders in developing innovative programs to prioritize disadvantaged businesses, invest in efforts to create equitable competition, and promote diverse economic development initiatives. The Accelerating Small Business Growth Act would create a new grant program to help transportation agencies across our Nation carry out these innovative programs to help underserved businesses grow and achieve proficiency to compete, on an equal basis, for contracts and subcontracts in federally funded transportation projects. Agencies that receive funding through this grant program would be required to submit reports to the Department of Transportation evaluating the effectiveness of their activities, which would help inform future Federal procurement policymaking. I want to thank Representatives Pete Aguilar and Jimmy Gomez for co- leading these bills with me, and I hope colleagues will join us in support of this legislation to minority-owned, women-owned, and disadvantaged businesses compete for contracts to develop and build Federal infrastructure projects funded by the bipartisan infrastructure law.

Mr. PADILLA

Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Expansion Act and the Accelerating Small Business Growth Act, which I introduced today. The unprecedented investment in American infrastructure over the next decade provides a major opportunity to strengthen our most underserved businesses and communities. Providing resources to help develop women- owned, minority-owned, and disadvantaged businesses will uplift our entire economy, and it is how we truly build back better. Last year, President Biden set a goal of increasing the share of Federal contracts going to small, disadvantaged businesses by 50 percent by 2025, which would translate to an additional $100 billion for these businesses. To help accomplish this ambitious goal, we should empower Federal, State, and local agencies to deliver resources to underserved businesses to help them become self-sufficient and grow. Established in 1970, the Federal Highway Administration's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Program already provides training, assistance, and services to minority- and women- owned businesses to help them develop into self-sufficient organizations that viably compete for federally assisted highway project contracts. Unfortunately, Congress has not allowed this program to keep up with the needs of our underserved businesses. The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Expansion Act would increase this program's annual funding cap for the first time in nearly 50 years from $10 million to $25 million. Additionally, the bill would create similar programs at the Federal Aviation Administration and the Federal Transit Administration. Local, regional, and State agencies have also been leaders in developing innovative programs to prioritize disadvantaged businesses, invest in efforts to create equitable competition, and promote diverse economic development initiatives. The Accelerating Small Business Growth Act would create a new grant program to help transportation agencies across our Nation carry out these innovative programs to help underserved businesses grow and achieve proficiency to compete, on an equal basis, for contracts and subcontracts in federally funded transportation projects. Agencies that receive funding through this grant program would be required to submit reports to the Department of Transportation evaluating the effectiveness of their activities, which would help inform future Federal procurement policymaking. I want to thank Representatives Pete Aguilar and Jimmy Gomez for co- leading these bills with me, and I hope colleagues will join us in support of this legislation to minority-owned, women-owned, and disadvantaged businesses compete for contracts to develop and build Federal infrastructure projects funded by the bipartisan infrastructure law.