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Prediction track record
How often we called Lateefah Simon's passage votes correctly, from their stated positions on each bill's tagged topics. Excludes “unclear” calls and abstentions.
A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.
Based on 4 data points across public statements and recorded votes · AI analysis of public records
119-hconres-93·Consistent
Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran.
92/100
What they said
Apr 16, 2026
Congresswoman Simon opposes the Trump administration's military operations in Iran, characterizing them as unlawful and dangerous. She advocates for withdrawal of U.S. Armed Forces and a shift toward diplomatic resolution.
Voted Yea on Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran.
The statement says Rep. Simon opposes the continuing U.S. military operations in Iran and urges withdrawal, and the bill directs removal of U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran, except for defensive operations against imminent attacks. Her yes vote on passage matches the position she states, with the main gap being that the bill's defensive-operations carve-out is not addressed in her statement.
To direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Venezuela that have not been authorized by Congress.
82/100
What they said
Apr 30, 2026
Congresswoman Simon expresses concern that recent foreign policy has prioritized military spending over humanitarian needs and diplomacy, and commits to rigorous congressional oversight of defense spending, veteran support, and the humanitarian impact of U.S. actions abroad.
Voted Yea on To direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Venezuela that have not been authorized by Congress.
Congresswoman Simon's statement emphasizes the need for rigorous congressional oversight of defense spending and expresses concern that foreign policy has prioritized military action over diplomacy and humanitarian needs. Her yes vote on H.Con.Res. 64, which requires congressional authorization before U.S. Armed Forces engage in hostilities against Venezuela, aligns with her stated commitment to congressional oversight and skepticism of military interventions without proper deliberation. The vote reflects her position that military decisions should be subject to rigorous scrutiny and authorization rather than executive action alone.
Congresswoman Simon expresses concern that recent foreign policy has prioritized military spending over humanitarian needs and diplomacy, and commits to rigorous congressional oversight of defense spending, veteran support, and the humanitarian impact of U.S. actions abroad.
Congresswoman Simon's statement emphasizes that veterans and military families deserve robust support and that Congress should scrutinize how taxpayer dollars serve those who served. Her yes vote on the Honoring Our Heroes Act, which expands headstone and burial marker benefits to a previously excluded cohort of veterans, aligns with her stated commitment to ensuring veterans receive the support they deserve. The bill directly addresses veteran welfare through expanded commemorative benefits. However, the statement addresses a broader foreign policy and defense spending critique, while the bill is narrowly focused on burial benefits, so the alignment is directional but not comprehensive.
Congresswoman Simon expresses concern that recent foreign policy has prioritized military spending over humanitarian needs and diplomacy, and commits to rigorous congressional oversight of defense spending, veteran support, and the humanitarian impact of U.S. actions abroad.
The statement emphasizes congressional oversight of defense spending and ensuring veterans receive adequate support. The TRAVEL Act directly addresses veteran healthcare access in underserved territories, which aligns with the rep's stated commitment to veteran support. However, the bill is narrowly focused on a specific VA physician assignment program rather than the broader defense spending oversight or diplomatic priorities the statement emphasizes. The yes vote is consistent with supporting veterans, but the bill does not directly address the statement's concerns about military spending prioritization or humanitarian considerations in foreign policy.
Pairs with ambiguous language and high uncertainty are withheld until more data is available. Procedural, cloture, and amendment votes are excluded — they don't cleanly signal substantive support or opposition.
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Crossing the aisle
Passage votes where Lateefah Simon broke ranks with ≥75% of Democrats. Threshold catches substantively partisan splits; unanimous-ish or close votes are excluded.
Congresswoman Simon Secures Over $1 Million in Federal Funding for Public Safety at Mills College at Northeastern University and Surrounding Oakland Neighborhood
Position: The release announces $1,031,000 in federal Community Project Funding for Mills College at Northeastern University Oakland to purchase emergency blue-light phone towers and security cameras to improve campus and neighborhood public safety.
OAKLAND, CA – This week, Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (CA-12) announced $1,031,000 in Community Project Funding (CPF) for Mills College at Northeastern University Oakland. This federal funding will be used to purchase new emergency blue-light phone towers and security cameras that will help to improve public safety on campus and in the surrounding community.
Congresswoman Simon announced the funding alongside Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, Dean of Northeastern University Oakland Dan Sachs, Associated Vice President for Global Site Security Regina Coppa, and other Northeastern University leadership. This federal investment is part of Congresswoman Simon’s commitment to bringing federal resources back to the East Bay and supporting students, educators, and educational institutions who are creating the next generation of leaders in the East Bay.
This Community Project Funding (CPF) is a part of the $11.2 million dollars that Congresswoman Simon secured for 15 projects across the East Bay in Fiscal Year 2026. Each fiscal year, members of Congress can submit Community Project Funding requests for consideration with the House Committee on Appropriations. You can read about the 15 projects that Congresswoman Simon secured funding for in her first year here.
“Mills College at Northeastern University is one of the jewels of Oakland. I came to this campus as a student and young single mother and walked these paths with my child. I know this campus is home to far more than a university. It is home to the little ones at the preschool, the girls at Julia Morgan, the neighbors who swim in the pool and walk the trail, and the faculty and workers who keep it all running,” said Congresswoman Lateefah Simon. “This funding invests in every one of them and in the simple things that make a place safe: light, open paths, updated equipment like call booths. NE’s leadership is committed to a campus that takes responsibility for its neighbors as much as its own. Safety is a public good, and that is exactly the kind of investment Oakland deserves. Thank you to Mayor Barbara Lee for her partnership on this funding.”
"This campus changed my life when I came here as a single mother on public assistance, and this million-dollar investment continues that legacy of support by keeping our students, families, and neighbors safe," said Mayor Barbara Lee. "Before leaving Congress, I requested federal funding for this project, and I am deeply grateful to Congresswoman Lateefah Simon for carrying it forward so we can build the safe, thriving community Oakland deserves."
"We’re grateful to Congresswoman Lateefah Simon for her leadership in securing this funding for our Oakland campus," said Renee Jadushlever, Vice President for Campus Administration and Strategic Initiatives at Northeastern University. "It’s a place where students learn, do research, build community, and gain real-world experience with our industry partners across the region. This investment will help maintain the safety of our campus community while we continue to welcome our neighbors and deepen our connections across Oakland."
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Issues:
Public Safety
Education
On Disabled Women’s Equal Pay Day, Congresswomen Simon, Randall, and Pressley Call for Disabled Women to be Paid Fairly, Introduce Resolution Recognizing the Need to Close the Wage Gap and Reduce Economic Barriers
Position: Introduces a resolution recognizing the pay gap between disabled women and nondisabled men and calling for reducing systemic economic barriers and advancing economic equity for disabled women.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, on Disabled Women’s Equal Pay Day, Congresswomen Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), and Emily Randall (WA-06) announced they will introduce the Disabled Women’s Equal Pay Day Resolution. This resolution recognizes the persistent pay disparity between disabled women and both disabled and nondisabled men, and it reaffirms the need to reduce systemic, economic barriers and advance economic equity for disabled women.
According to recent analysis from the National Partnership for Women & Families, disabled women continue to face high-wage gap disparities compared to their nondisabled male counterparts, earning 56 cents for every dollar paid to nondisabled men. The pay gap is even greater for disabled women of color, who are paid 46-55 cents for every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic nondisabled men. Additionally, working disabled mothers are paid 44 cents for every dollar paid to nondisabled fathers.
“Disabled women of color experience some of the largest pay gaps in our nation- impacting their ability to care for themselves and their loved ones,” said Congresswoman Simon. “This is an unacceptable reality, which is why I joined disability champions in Congress, Reps. Pressley and Randall, to introduce this resolution and demand action to undo systemic barriers to equal pay, break down the discrimination that disabled women face, and move towards a future where every individual is valued for their labor without discrimination based on gender, race, or disability.”
"Disability rights are human rights. It is shameful that in 2026, women with disabilities are paid 44 cents for every dollar paid to non-disabled fathers—and that wage gap only widens for working disabled women of color," said Congresswoman Pressley. “Our Disabled Women’s Equal Pay Day Resolution makes it clear: We must put an end to this economic injustice and make sure everyone gets equal pay for equal work.”
“We all deserve to live full lives, to be treated with dignity and respect. All people with disabilities still face huge system barriers, and for disabled women they’re compounded,” said Rep. Randall. “Women with disabilities make less than non-disabled women, and less than disabled men. Government has to do better. As Chair of the Better Pay and Benefits Task Force, I’ll keep fighting for working people everywhere to get the pay and benefits they’ve earned so folks of all abilities can live and thrive in their communities.”
This resolution is endorsed by the Democratic Women’s Caucus, American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), National Partnership for Women & Families (NPWF), Disability Culture Lab (DCL), National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), National Disabled Legal Professionals Association (NDLPA), Equal Rights Advocates (ERA), New Disabled South.
As the first congenitally blind Member of Congress and a mother of two, Congresswoman Lateefah Simon is committed to advancing disability rights and justice for Americans with disabilities, including women and mothers with disabilities.
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Issues:
Disability Justice
Economy and Small Business
Congresswoman Lateefah Simon Hosts Town Halls in All Seven Cities In the East Bay in 2026, Reaches Thousands Across the District
Position: The release criticizes Trump Administration and Republican cuts to federal programs and services and opposes funding for federal immigration enforcement actions. It also opposes a proposed Oakland coal export terminal and seeks answers on the Alameda Point VA outpatient clinic project.
OAKLAND, CA – Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (CA-12) has completed her second town hall tour since being sworn into Congress in January 2025. In 2026, she held town halls in all seven cities that she represents in California’s 12th Congressional District, reaching thousands of constituents in Oakland, Berkeley, Albany, San Leandro, Alameda, Piedmont, and Emeryville.
This year’s town hall tour builds on Congresswoman Simon’s previous 2025 town hall tour where she held eleven town halls across the East Bay, reaching more than 15,000 constituents in person, virtually, and by telephone.
“As the Trump Administration and Republicans in Congress continue to cut vital programs and services while funding the unlawful, violent terrorization our immigrant communities, hearing stories and the impacts of the Republican agenda on the families living in our communities everyday has been invaluable. Every single day I take the voices from our district and fight for better conditions and resources in Congress,” said Congresswoman Lateefah Simon. “I am grateful to every community member from Albany to San Leandro who joined me on this year’s town hall tour to raise the issues most important to you and how I can continue to serve and fight for us. Though this year has brought challenges, the resilience and joy of the East Bay inspires me every day, and I look forward to continuing to meet with and hear from neighbors across our beautiful district.”
During her town hall tour, the Congresswoman shared updates with constituents on: (1) the Congresswoman’s legislative work in Congress during her second year, including her work as a member in the House Oversight Committee and Small Business Committee; (2) recent bills she’s introduced to support small business owners, public transportation, and workers with disabilities; (3) recent efforts to protect reproductive, disability, labor, and civil rights; (3) the over $11.1 million in federal Community Project Funding that the Congresswoman secured for projects across the East Bay; (4) updates on the Congresswoman’s work to oppose the proposed Oakland coal export terminal funded by the Trump Administration and demand answers on the status of the Alameda Point Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic and columbarium project, (5), attacks on immigrant communities and resources to help; and (6) how Californians can stay involved and continue to fight back.
For constituents looking for resources, help with casework, or to share stories or concerns, please click here.
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Congresswoman Simon Introduces Legislation to Reduce Voting Barriers, Expand Voting Poll Access, and Protect Voters with Disabilities
Position: The release announces two bills, the Accessible Voting Act and the Dropbox Access Act, which would expand voting accessibility for older Americans and people with disabilities and require in-person ballot drop boxes in every county for federal elections.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (CA-12) introduced two bills to reduce voting barriers by improving accessibility for voters, especially older Americans and people with disabilities, and bolster election security. She joined Reps. Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), and Jamie Raskin (MD-08) in introducing The Accessible Voting Act; and she joined Reps. Sylvia Garcia (TX-29) and Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) in introducing The Dropbox Access Act.
The Accessible Voting Act would establish the Office of Accessibility within the Election Assistance Commission (EAC) to oversee state and local elections to ensure that voter accessibility needs are adequately met, by expanding the number of options to fairly cast ballots. The bill would also establish a website for National Voter Accessibility and fund a National Resource Center to further train election officials and poll workers on accessibility.
The Dropbox Access Act, would require states to provide in-person, secure, and clearly labeled ballot drop boxes in every county for federal elections. The bill would require counties to provide a minimum of one drop box per 20,000 voting-age residents and require that drop boxes are accessible 24 hours a day starting from 45 days before the election until polls close.
As the first congenitally blind Member of Congress, Congresswoman Simon is committed to defending the civil rights of Americans with disabilities and has continuously opposed rollbacks of disability protections. She has introduced numerous pieces of legislation aimed at expanding accessibility in small businesses and public transportation, and she has pressed the Trump Administration on their failure to protect workers with disabilities.
“Our elders fought for our voting rights with blood, sweat, and tears – and yet too many people, particularly older Americans and Americans with disabilities, still face barriers to voting such as inaccessible polling locations or access to voter information. Both the Accessible Voting Act and Dropbox Access Act will improve voter accessibility for requesting mail-in ballots, accessing voter registration info, and when showing up to the ballot box,” said Rep. Simon. “As the first congenitally blind Member of Congress, improving accessibility to ensure that all Americans can equally access resources and participate in society is a top priority of mine. I am proud to lead on these bills with Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon to ensure ALL individuals can equally participate in local and federal elections to make their rightful voices heard.”
“Our democracy thrives when every eligible voter is able to participate, and these bills will remove barriers that all too often make it more difficult for Americans to cast their ballots. I’ve seen how expanding accessibility and access to ballot boxes has improved voter turnout and engagement in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” said Rep. Scanlon. “I’m proud to introduce these bills to advance more equitable and just voting policies for all Americans.”
“American democracy works best when all citizens can participate and vote, no matter where they’re from, what language they speak or whether they live with a disability,” said Rep. Raskin. “Our Accessible Voting Act strengthens access to the ballot box and addresses a wide range of systemic deficiencies, so no eligible voter is left alone to overcome barriers to casting a ballot.”
“The ability for everyone to have their voice heard is central to our American ideals—yet too often people with disabilities face unnecessary barriers in both registering to vote and casting their ballots, preventing them from fully participating in our democracy,” said Rep. Dean. “This legislation will help improve registration processes and eliminate barriers to voting, including by reauthorizing grants to improve voting accessibility for older Americans and those with disabilities. By breaking down these barriers, our communities can be better represented by every voice. I'm thankful to partner with Congresswoman Scanlon and Congressman Raskin to pass these essential bills.”
“We should be making it more accessible for Americans to vote, not harder,” said Rep. Garcia. “But the Trump administration and its Republican allies continue to attack voting rights and put up new barriers to the ballot box. That is why I am proud to once again co-lead the Dropbox Access Act, a practical bill to make sure voters have fair, accessible options to return their ballots. We should be protecting the right to vote, not suppressing it.”
Find the full text for the Accessible Voting Act here.
Find the full text for the Dropbox Access Act here.
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Issues:
Disability Justice
Equality, Racial, and Social Justice
Democratic Whip Katherine Clark and Congresswoman Lateefah Simon Visit Oakland Head Start Facility and Community Health Center, Condemn Republican Cuts to Childcare, Healthcare, and Education Programs
Position: The release condemns federal funding cuts to healthcare, childcare, education, and food assistance programs enacted through a Republican-backed bill, and states opposition to reductions in Medi-Cal, SNAP, Head Start, and enhanced ACA tax credits.
OAKLAND, CA – This week, Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12) hosted, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA-05), the highest-ranking woman in the House of Representatives, in Oakland’s Fruitvale neighborhood. They visited the Unity Council’s Head Start and Early Head Start Preschool facilities and La Clínica de La Raza, a federally qualified health center, to meet with families, frontline health care staff, and care workers who have been impacted by Republicans’ devastating federal aid cuts.
President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ “One Big, Cruel, Ugly Bill” has made deep cuts to federal funding for healthcare, childcare, education, and food assistance programs. In California’s 12th Congressional District, it is estimated that 31,000 people are experiencing rising healthcare costs and 35, 595 people will lose health coverage because of Republican cuts to Medi-Cal and decision to end enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits. In Congress, Congresswoman Simon has consistently fought against cuts to Medicaid/Medi-CAL and SNAP and attempts to gut Head Start.
“My daughter was a Head Start child, and I know intimately that federally supported childcare and healthcare is a lifeline for many families. It allows children to learn safely and be healthy while their parents attend school or work in our local businesses,” said Congresswoman Simon. “Whip Clark and I are taking everything we heard from our visit back to D.C., where we are hell bent on fighting this Administration and reversing their harmful policies so our Head Starts, our community health centers, our care workers, our families have everything they need to continue growing and being brilliant.”
"Congresswoman Lateefah Simon is an unrivaled champion for working families," said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. "It was a privilege to join her in Oakland to see firsthand what communities need from the federal government: investments in healthcare, childcare, and the wellbeing of regular people, not giveaways to the ultra-rich. While the Republican Party continues to bend its knee to the billionaire class, Democrats are ready to take back the People's House and get to work for the working class.”
“We are honored to welcome Congresswoman Simon and Democratic Whip Clark to Fruitvale and share firsthand the impact of The Unity Council’s work,” said CEO of The Unity Council, Chris Iglesias. “From giving our youngest learners, a strong foundation at our De Colores Head Start, to bringing La Catrina de Oakland to Fruitvale as a powerful celebration of culture and community, our work is rooted in creating opportunities and strengthening families. Their visit underscores the importance of continued investment in the people, programs, and places that allow communities like Fruitvale to thrive."
“At our De Colores Head Start Center, we see every day how a strong start can shape not only a child’s future, but an entire families’,” said Chief Early Learning Officer of The Unity Council, Luis Arenas. “Head Start creates opportunities for children to learn and grow while giving parents the support and resources they need to move their families forward. We were proud to welcome Congresswoman Simon and Democratic Whip Clark into our classrooms and share the real, lasting impact this work has on families throughout our community.”
“We are deeply grateful to Whip Katherine Clark and Congresswoman Lateefah Simon for visiting La Clínica and for their tireless advocacy on behalf of the communities we serve. Their visit shows what federal investment looks like on the ground, and highlights what is at risk when coverage and resources for community health centers are reduced,” said La Clínica CEO, Jane García. “What’s at stake is whether parents can get their children to the doctor, whether patients can access dental and behavioral health care along with primary care, whether families can afford their medications, and whether community health centers have the resources to keep the staff who provide this care. La Clínica thanks Whip Clark and Congresswoman Simon for listening to our patients and staff and for bringing their voices back to Washington. The decisions made there have very real impacts here in the Bay Area.”
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Issues:
Health Care
Education
Congresswoman Simon, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Landmark Olmstead Court Decision Supporting Americans with Disabilities on 27th Anniversary
Position: The release supports reaffirming the Olmstead v. L.C. decision and its integration mandate, which bars unnecessary institutionalization of people with disabilities, and opposes Trump Administration efforts to dispute or weaken that mandate.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Simon (CA-12) alongside Reps. Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-05), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), and Tom Kean (R-NJ-07) introduced a bipartisan resolution commemorating the 27th anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision, Olmstead v. L.C.. The Olmstead decision prohibits the unnecessary institutionalization of people with disabilities and ensures Americans with disabilities can live full, independent lives and categorized the unjustified institutionalization of people with disabilities as discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). As the Olmstead decision comes under attack from the Trump Administration, this bipartisan resolution reaffirms the right that people with disabilities have to live, work, and participate in their own homes and communities with independence and dignity.
As the first congenitally blind Member of Congress, Congresswoman Simon is committed to defending the disability community from attacks by the Trump Administration and advancing policies that expand accessibility. Congresswoman Simon recently condemned the Trump Administration’s Department of Justice and Department of Health and Human Services’ move to dispute the Olmstead integration mandate and undermine the key protections outlined by the Olmstead decision.
"Community-based services and supports work. They are more cost-effective, produce better health and quality-of-life outcomes, and honor people with disabilities’ autonomy and self-determination. The consequences of weakening the integration mandate would be profound and impact millions of Americans’ ability to access home and community-based services that allow them to remain among their families, maintain employment, pursue education, and participate in civic life," said Congresswoman Simon. "That's why as the first congenitally blind Member to serve in Congress, I am proud to join my colleagues to reaffirm our bipartisan commitment to the Olmstead decision and fight any attempts to diminish the civil rights of the disability community."
"It is essential that people with disabilities continue to have the right to live, work, and thrive in their own communities with dignity," said Congresswoman Dingell. "This bipartisan resolution reaffirms that we will not allow hard won progress to be rolled back, and that we will continue to protect and support the rights enshrined by the Olmstead decision for every person whose lives it has changed for the better."
"Although the Olmstead decision was issued more than twenty‑five years ago, its significance remains just as strong today. I am pleased to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution, reaffirming our commitment to ending discrimination based on disability," said Congressman Kean.
"For 27 years, the Supreme Court’s decision in Olmstead v. L.C. has informed the advancement of policies to empower individuals with disabilities to live and work independently in our communities," said Congresswoman Scanlon. "Recent attempts to undermine the Olmstead integration mandate and roll back those policies raises new opportunities for discrimination against our friends and neighbors with disabilities, and harms the larger community. I’m proud to join my House colleagues in recognizing Olmstead’s anniversary and recommitting ourselves to protecting community integration for the good of all."
"Olmstead affirmed a fundamental principle: every American deserves the freedom and opportunity to build a full life in the community they call home. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, that principle has always been at the heart of my work to break down barriers, strengthen independence, and ensure all Americans with disabilities have the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. Twenty-seven years later, our responsibility is not simply to recognize the progress Olmstead made possible, but to protect it, build upon it, and ensure that progress is never reversed," said Congressman Fitzpatrick.
The resolution is endorsed by the Caring Across Generations, United Spinal, ANCOR, Autism Self Advocacy Network, National Council on Independent Living, American Association of People with Disabilities, and the National Disability Rights Network.
A copy of the resolution can be found HERE.
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Issues:
Disability Justice
Congresswoman Simon and Congressman DeSaulnier Introduce Legislation to Establish a Commission to Identify, Investigate, and Remedy Historical Injustices by Federal Agencies
Position: The release supports legislation establishing an independent commission to review, recommend remedies for, and subpoena federal agencies regarding historical discrimination and injustices, including uncompensated cases.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (CA-12) and Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) introduced the Confronting and Correcting Historical Injustices Act, legislation that would establish a “Commission for Review and Correction of Historical Injustices” to identify, investigate, and remedy instances of historical injustice and discrimination carried out by federal agencies.
“For far too long, communities – particularly Black and brown communities - have been subjected to discriminatory practices at the hands of our own government without proper accountability or acknowledgement. This current moment in history, when the Trump Administration is killing American citizens and terrorizing immigrant communities, demonstrates that the legacy of horrific violence and racial inequality towards immigrant communities by the federal government continues,” said Congresswoman Simon. “This legislation establishes a path to address these injustices and demand the accountability communities deserve. “I am proud to reintroduce this legislation with my colleague Congressman DeSaulnier and carry forward the torch lit by Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee.
“In order to realize the founding ideals of our country, we must recognize and address the darker chapters in its history marked by discrimination and hate,” said Congressman Mark DeSaulnier. “I am proud to partner with Congresswoman Simon, who has been a strong leader on this issue, in introducing this legislation that will bring us closer to the promise of equality and justice for all.”
The independent Commission established by this legislation would:
Review cases of discrimination where individuals or groups have not received compensation for the actions of the federal agency;
Recommend further legislative or executive action to address and resolve discriminatory instances;
Establish a procedure for the public to submit discrimination cases for review;
Hold the authority to issue a subpoena to any federal agency that the Commission deems necessary.
This bill was partially inspired by the case of the Port Chicago 50; and the legislation was previously introduced by then-Congresswoman, now Mayor of Oakland, Barbara Lee, and Congressman DeSaulnier in the 118th Congress.
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Issues:
Equality, Racial, and Social Justice
Congresswoman Simon Introduces Bill to Improve Small Business Loan Flexibility, Support East Bay Businesses and Entrepreneurs
Position: Introduces the 504 Program Level Flexibility Act, which would let the SBA increase the 504 loan program's annual lending limit by up to 15 percent once per fiscal year, with at least 30 days' notice to Congress, to prevent program shutdowns during periods of heightened loan demand.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (CA-12) and Congressman Mark Alford (MO-4) introduced the 504 Program Level Flexibility Act, a bill that would allow the Small Business Administration (SBA) to increase the 504 loan program’s annual lending limit by up to 15 percent once per fiscal year. The SBA’s 504 loan program grants long-term, fixed-rate loans of up to $5.5 million to support investments in assets such as buildings, land, machinery, and equipment. This program is a critical tool for helping entrepreneurs start, grow, and invest in their businesses by making major fixed-asset investments more affordable.
In July 2021, the SBA alerted Congress that the 504 loan program was projected to reach its Fiscal Year 2021 program level limit, which would have forced the program to shut down lending until the next fiscal year. The 504 Program Level Flexibility Act would help prevent future program shutdowns by providing flexibility to prevent the program from being exhausted during periods of heightened loan demands, such as pandemics or recessions, authorizing the SBA to increase the program level by up to 15 percent with at least 30 days’ notice to Congress.
“When the cost of doing business rises, the impacts fall hardest on our small businesses. Ensuring that the Small Business Administration can adapt to loan demand when the need for financing is high ensures that entrepreneurs are never turned away when they need help the most,” said Congresswoman Simon. “I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with my colleague Congressman Mark Alford to provide loan limit flexibility and make the 504 loan program more resilient.”
In California’s 12th Congressional District, this bill could help preserve access to long-term, affordable financing for small local businesses who are looking to either purchase or improve commercial property. This is especially important as East Bay businesses continue to navigate high commercial real estate costs and a broader affordability crisis that makes it increasingly difficult to establish and sustain a local business.
Issues:
Economy and Small Business
Congresswoman Simon Condemns Trump Administration’s Continued Attack on the Civil Rights of Disability Community
Position: The release opposes the Department of Justice's June 2026 opinion memo and the August 2026 proposed resolution in Texas v. Kennedy, which seek to narrow the Olmstead integration mandate and Section 504 community-integration provisions, and argues that community-based services for people with disabilities should be protected.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — On June 18, 2026, the Trump Administration’s Department of Justice (DOJ) issued an opinion memo undermining key protections established by the landmark Supreme Court ruling in Olmstead v. L.C. which prohibits the unnecessary institutionalization of people with disabilities and ensures Americans with disabilities can live full, independent lives. In response, Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12) and disability leaders in Congress led 100 of their colleagues to call on the Department of Justice to rescind the opinion memo.
This week, on August 31, 2026, the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in coordination with Texas, Florida, and Alaska, filed a proposed resolution in Texas v. Kennedy, a lawsuit challenging the legality and constitutionality of a Section 504 rule published by HHS in 2024 that expanded the integration mandate. The proposed resolution formally asks the court to enter an order vacating references to community integration throughout the 2024 HHS Section 504 rule, including the entirety of the integration provision.
The proposed resolution is alarming because it doubles down on the June 2026 DOJ opinion memo to undermine longstanding legal precedent and interpretation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ultimately paving a path to allow Americans with disabilities to be forced into institutions against their will.
In response, Congresswoman Simon, who serves as the first congenitally blind Member of Congress, released the following statement:
“I am horrified and furious at this Administration's continued attempts to roll back the rights of the disability community and abandon its duty to protect and enforce basic civil rights. From devastating cuts to Medicaid that severely impacted home and community-based services, to the DOJ opinion memo undermining Olmstead, to now challenging protections against discrimination on the basis of disability – the Trump Administration is hell-bent on sending the disability community back in time.
“Community-based services and supports work. They are more cost-effective, produce better health and quality-of-life outcomes, and honor people with disabilities’ autonomy and self-determination. The consequences of weakening the integration mandate would be profound and impact millions of Americans’ ability to access home and community-based services that allow them to remain among their families, maintain employment, pursue education, and participate in civic life. As states adjust their budgets to account for Medicaid cuts, the Administration is paving the way for reductions in these support programs and increased reliance on institutional care.
“I want to be clear: Neither the DOJ opinion memo nor the proposed resolution can or does change the interpretation of the requirements under Section 504 of the ADA. Only Congress can change the law, and I will fight with every ounce of my being against any attempts to diminish the civil rights of the disability community.”
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Issues:
Disability Justice
Health Care
Congresswoman Simon Introduces Small Business Borrowers’ Bill of Rights
Position: Congresswoman Simon and Ranking Member Velázquez introduced a resolution establishing six core financing rights for small business borrowers, including transparent pricing, non-abusive products, responsible underwriting, fair broker treatment, inclusive credit access, and fair collections processes, to protect entrepreneurs from predatory lending practices.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – During National Small Business Week, Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12) and House Committee on Small Business Ranking Member Nydia Velázquez (D-NY-07) introduced the Small Business Borrowers’ Bill of Rights, a resolution affirming that small business owners seeking financing have fundamental rights to protect them from unfair lending practices.
Technological change has expanded access to small business loans and capital; however, it has also created new opportunities for predatory actors to take advantage of small business borrowers. From misleading pricing, unaffordable underwriting, and abusive loan products, small business owners face a variety of unfair practices. This resolution supports transparency, fairness, and accountability throughout the small business lending ecosystem by establishing six core financing rights for entrepreneurs.
The six rights of small business borrowers enumerated in this resolution, inspired by the Responsible Business Lending Coalition, include: the right to (1) transparent pricing and terms, (2) non-abusive products, (3) responsible underwriting, (4) fair treatment for brokers, (5) inclusive credit access, (6) fair collections processes.
“Ensuring that small businesses have equitable access to the capital they need to grow, hire, and thrive in a safe, transparent, and fair marketplace is essential,” said Congresswoman Simon. “There are over 16,000 small businesses in my district, and I know that the key to strong, thriving Main Streets is ensuring that small business owners have the resources and protections they need. That’s why I am proud to introduce this resolution alongside House Small Business Committee Ranking Member Velázquez to stand firmly against exploitative practices that undermine entrepreneurs and put small business owners at risk.”
“As Ranking Member of the House Small Business Committee, I hear frequently from entrepreneurs about the challenges they face in securing the financing they need to start, sustain, and grow their businesses," said Ranking Member Velázquez. “Access to capital is essential for Main Street, but we have to be certain that the products available to small business owners don't open the door to predatory practices that trap them in cycles of debt. This resolution lays out a clear framework to keep credit flowing while protecting small businesses from unscrupulous actors.”
You can find the full text of the resolution here. This legislation is endorsed by the Responsible Business Lending Coalition and Small Business Majority.
"Small business owners are increasingly struggling under irresponsible lending practices that set them up to fail, rather than help them succeed. Ten years after the Responsible Business Lending Coalition first convened for-profit lenders, nonprofits, and small business groups to develop the Small Business Borrowers' Bill of Rights – cross-sector industry standards for responsible small business lending—there has never been a more important time to affirm the practices that improve access to responsible capital,” said Louis Caditz-Peck, Executive Director Responsible Business Lending Coalition. “We applaud Representative Velazquez and Representative Simon for standing up for Main Street and calling for small business owners to be treated fairly."
As a member of the House Small Business Committee, Congresswoman Simon is dedicated to promoting equity and ensuring fairness in business and loaning practices. Since coming to Congress in January 2025, she has passed three small business related-bills through the House of Representatives, including the Assisting Small Businesses, Not Fraudsters Act and the ThinkDIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act.
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Issues:
Economy and Small Business
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Top PAC donors · 2026 cycle
Political action committees that gave the most to this rep's principal campaign committee this cycle. PAC giving is direct organizational support — industry, ideological, or leadership.
1.AMERICAN CRYSTAL SUGAR COMPANY POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEEAgriculture2 contributionsAgricultural processing PAC for American Crystal Sugar — backs candidates supporting farm subsidies, sugar price supports, and agricultural trade policies.AI$10,000
2.INT'L UNION OF BRICKLAYERS AND ALLIED CRAFTWORKERS2 contributions$10,000
3.AMERICAN FEDERATION OF STATE COUNTY & MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES P E O P L E4 contributions$10,000
4.NATIONAL UNION OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS PAC3 contributions$8,500
5.AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR JUSTICE POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE (AAJ PAC)3 contributions$7,500
6.AMALGAMATED TRANSIT UNION - COPELabor3 contributionsTrade-union PAC for transit workers — backs candidates supporting public transportation funding, worker protections, and collective bargaining rights.AI$7,500
7.JAZZ PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE3 contributions$7,500
8.AIR LINE PILOTS ASSOCIATION PACLabor3 contributionsTrade-union PAC for commercial airline pilots — backs candidates supporting pilot workplace protections, collective bargaining rights, and aviation safety standards.AI$6,000
9.MEDICARE FOR ALLIdeological1 contributionHealthcare-reform advocacy PAC — supports candidates backing universal single-payer Medicare coverage for all Americans.AI$5,000
10.BLUEPAC - BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD ASSOCIATION PAC1 contribution$5,000
Source: OpenFEC (api.open.fec.gov) Schedule A receipts where contributor type is “committee.” Aggregated by contributing committee. Self-transfers from joint-fundraising / victory committees are excluded.
Top individual contributors · 2026 cycle
Itemized individual contributions over $200 to this rep's campaign committee, aggregated by donor employer. PAC giving is shown above; this section is people, not organizations.
1.SELF$86,753
2.EXELIXIS INC$14,000
3.EXELIXIS INC.$12,500
4.LIEFF CABRASER HEIMANN & BERNSTEIN$10,500
5.BROADCOM$10,500
6.UCSF$8,655
7.WOODS & WAYSIDE INTERNATIONAL$7,500
8.FOR THE PEOPLE$7,250
9.THE SCOTT FOUNDATION$7,250
10.JREI$7,100
Source: OpenFEC Schedule A receipts where contributor type is “individual,” aggregated by the donor's self-reported employer. This is a geographic / industry correlation, not a corporate endorsement.
