Congresswoman Luz Rivas Appointed to House Committees on Natural Resources and Space, Science, and Technology for 119th Congress
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) released the following statement after she was appointed to the House Committee on Natural Resources and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology for the 119th Congress:
“As the only Latina with a STEM background in Congress, I am excited to utilize my experiences on behalf of our constituents to work on the House Committees on Natural Resources and Science, Space, and Technology and develop holistic, science-backed solutions to our most pressing issues to improve Americans’ lives,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “These committees play critical roles in addressing climate change issues, as well as promoting environmental stewardship, sustainable resource management, and scientific innovation that keeps America competitive. I look forward to working with Ranking Member Huffman, Ranking Member Lofgren, and my colleagues on both committees to advance House Democrats’ priorities for a cleaner and more sustainable future for all.”
“I am proud to appoint Rep. Luz Rivas to the Committee on Natural Resources as well as the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology to push back on Republicans’ anti-science, climate change-denying agenda,” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. “As an electrical engineer and former Chairwoman of the California Assembly’s Natural Resources Committee, Rep. Rivas is battle-tested and ready to lead on day one. I look forward to working with her to protect our environment and ensure our nation stays on the cutting edge of innovation and technology.”
"Long before arriving in the halls of Congress, Rep. Luz Rivas has been an effective legislator and a vigorous advocate for her community. I am thrilled that she will bring her talent and expertise to the Science, Space, and Technology Committee and the Natural Resources Committee in the 119th Congress,” said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. “Her experience tearing down barriers in STEM and combating climate change will be a critical asset in House Democrats’ fight to lower costs for working families, create good paying jobs, and build a sustainable future.”
“Rep. Luz Rivas is poised to hit the ground running in her first term in Congress, and I’m excited to partner with her and the entire California delegation,” said House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar. “She is ideally positioned to be a leading advocate for Los Angeles County’s recovery and to work on federal wildfire mitigation policy from her seat on the House Committee on Natural Resources. As a Member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, Rep. Rivas will leverage her STEM background and her work as an electrical engineer to play an important role in developing innovative tools that keep America safe and competitive.”
“Rep. Luz Rivas will be an outstanding member of the distinguished House Natural Resources and Science, Space, and Technology Committees in the 119th Congress, and her appointment to these prestigious committees is a true reflection of her exceptional talents and strong leadership in California and beyond, said Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse. “Over the course of the next two years, these committees will take up incredibly important work on behalf of the American people, and I look forward to seeing all Rep. Rivas accomplishes as we work together to seek common ground for the common good.”
“I am excited to welcome Rep. Luz Rivas to the House Natural Resources Committee. Before coming to Congress, Rep. Rivas chaired the Natural Resources Committee in the California State Assembly where she prioritized environmental justice and used her engineering background to drive data-backed solutions to address the climate crisis,” said Committee on Natural Resources Ranking Member Jared Huffman. “Her leadership and proven track record fighting for our planet and vulnerable communities will be critical in pushing back against Trump’s extreme “drill-baby-drill” agenda. I’m glad to have her on the team as we fight to protect our natural resources for all Americans and future generations.”
“It is my pleasure to welcome fellow Californian, Congresswoman Luz Rivas, to the Science Committee,” said Committee on Space, Science, and Technology Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren. “Luz’s impressive STEM background and commitment to tackling the climate crisis throughout her career will make her an asset to the Committee. I’m excited to work with her as we continue to build solutions to our greatest challenges with science at the forefront.”
Background
The House Committee on Natural Resources promotes environmental stewardship, sustainable resource management, and the preservation of natural and cultural heritage. By conducting oversight, writing legislation, and engaging in bipartisan collaboration, the House Committee on Natural Resources aims to ensure the responsible and equitable use of the United States' natural resources for the benefit of present and future generations.
The House Committee on Space, Science, and Technology plays an important role in much of the legislation Congress has considered dealing with domestic and international science, technology and standards, and has enhanced long-term economic competitiveness through investments in science and technology The Committee has exclusive jurisdiction over the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), National Science Foundation (NSF), National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). The Committee also has authority over R&D activities at the Department of Energy (DOE), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Weather Service (NWS), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
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