Skip the Lines

Investing in Our Future
House Democrats recently unveiled our Middle Class Jumpstart action plan to create good paying jobs, expand access to affordable education, and unleash the full potential of America's women. This week, I was proud to join with Congressman Jared Huffman and community leaders at the College of Marin Kentfield Campus to discuss a key pillar in our plan: increasing the access and affordability of lifelong learning.

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Education is the greatest investment that individuals can make in themselves and our nation can make in our future. That is why, within 100 days of a Democratic House Majority, we will pass the Bank on Students Emergency Loan Refinancing Act to help Americans refinance their college loans and increase access to Pell Grants. We will also pass the Strong Start for America's Children Act to make early childhood learning more accessible for all parents.

Together, we will empower our young people, workers and women. We will jumpstart the middle class by building an economy that works for everyone, not just the privileged few.

Skip the Lines
The Transportation Security Administration recently announced the opening of TSA Pre✓™ site at the San Francisco International Airport (SFO). TSA Pre✓™ is an expedited screening program that allows travelers to leave on their shoes, light outerwear and belt, keep their laptop in its case and keep 3-1-1 compliant liquids/gels in a carry-on bag.

To enroll in TSA Pre✓™:

1. Download your application online.
2. Schedule a visit at your local site in order to provide biographic information (e.g. name, date of birth, address, etc.), fingerprints,valid required identity and citizenship/immigration documentation.
3. Pay your one-time application fee of $85 for a five-year membership.

If you're tired of getting stuck at long Customs lines, you may also want to consider applying for Global Entry, which also qualifies you for TSA Pre✓™. Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. By signing up for Global Entry, you will be able to breeze through customs when returning to the United States. Global Entry costs $100 for a non-refundable application fee for a five year membership.

In light of the recent tragedies abroad, you may also want to take advantage of resources like the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which will allow the State Department to better assist you in the case of an emergency. You can also subscribe to receive Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts and other information for a particular country. We must continue our work in Congress to ensure that our planes are secure, our passengers are safe, and U.S. aviation remains among the safest ways to travel. To learn more about how my office can assist with your travels, please visit my website.

Peace for Ferguson
Our hearts ache for the family of Michael Brown and for the entire community of Ferguson, Missouri. His death is a tragedy, and the response to neighborhood protests for transparency and accountability is deeply troubling.

We hope that the Governor's involvement will immediately deescalate the situation. While we all respect the important responsibility of law enforcement in keeping people safe, law enforcement must also protect their rights.

I commend the President for his leadership in directing the Department of Justice to investigate the death of Michael Brown. It is clear the Department of Justice should examine every aspect of the past few days, including whether there were any federal civil rights violations. It should also examine the long standing issues between the citizens of Ferguson and their elected officials and local law enforcement. A credible and comprehensive investigation is absolutely necessary to secure justice for Michael Brown's family and the community.