NW Riverside News

Congressman Ken Calvert of California's 41st District joined a majority in the House of Representatives to vote for H.R. 1968, the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025. The bill, passed with a narrow margin of 217 to 213 votes, aims to fund the federal government through the end of Fiscal Year 2025.

Rep. Calvert expressed his preference for passing individual appropriations bills but emphasized the importance of preventing a government shutdown. "While my preference is always to pass individual appropriations bills, I believe we must take every possible step to prevent a government shutdown – which is what this bill achieves," he stated.

As Chairman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, Calvert highlighted his efforts alongside Chairman Cole and other colleagues to ensure military funding and resources. He noted that the bill includes significant measures such as the largest pay raise for junior enlisted troops in over four decades and protection for essential programs like Social Security, Medicare, and VA services.

The approved legislation aims to avert a costly government shutdown while maintaining core services without increasing taxpayer spending. It ensures full funding for veterans' healthcare services and benefits, enhances defense investments, and supports federal wildland firefighters.

Additionally, $22.5 billion has been allocated to FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund to support California's response efforts related to natural disasters such as debris removal from Los Angeles wildfires. The bill also increases funding for air traffic control priorities compared to FY24 levels.

Furthermore, it fully funds nutrition assistance programs with more than $500 million increase requested by the Trump Administration for WIC totaling $7.6 billion.