Thompson Secures Key District Priorities and $4.04 Million for Local Solano County Projects

Washington – Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-05) announced that $4,049,000 for three projects in Solano County is included in the final 2023 appropriations government funding bill. This funding includes $2,000,000 for the SolTrans 100 Percent Battery Electric Commuter Coaches Project, $1,219,000 for the Mare Island Preservation and Restoration Project, and $830,000 for the Vallejo Gun Violence Prevention Initiative.

“Working with local leaders to identify projects that will help our community is one of my top priorities every year,” said Thompson. “I am proud that three vital projects in Solano County were included in the government funding bill passed today. These projects will help reduce community’s greenhouse gas emissions, preserve historic buildings on Mare Island, revitalize our local economy, and help law enforcement keep our community safe.

“Proud to have secured this funding and I look forward to seeing President Biden sign this bill into law.”

“We are thrilled, and grateful, that Congressman Thompson and Congress recognize the incredible heritage of the former Mare Island Naval Shipyard and its contribution to—and impact on—both our country and the world. Even as Congressman Thompson hands off Mare Island as a result of redistricting, he has given to the Island and Vallejo one last gift with these critically needed funds to preserve and protect Mare Island’s history,” said Kent Fortner, President of the Mare Island Historic Park Foundation.

“We appreciate Congressmen Mike Thompson’s support in helping us transition to a fully zero emission fleet. This funding will go directly to new all-electric highway buses. We appreciate all the efforts, as does our community, for a cleaner greener future,” said SolTrans.

"Gun violence has become an epidemic across our Nation, and sadly, the City of Vallejo isn't exempt from the statistics," said Acting City Manager Terrance Davis. "We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Thompson for his support of a Community Project for $830,000 that will be put towards the Vallejo Police Departments' Gun Violence Prevention Program, which will help us improve public safety and combat this grave issue that impacts us all."

The funding amounts for projects in Solano County included in the government funding bill are:

• $2,000,000 for the SolTrans 100 Percent Battery Electric Commuter Coaches Project which will support the purchase of four electric buses for the City of Vallejo to reduce emissions from public transportation.
• $1,219,000 for the Mare Island Preservation and Restoration Project which will restore the splendor and functionality of the Admiral’s Mansion and St. Peter’s Chapel landmarks at the former Mare Island Naval Shipyard to support revitalizing the economy of the City of Vallejo.
• $830,000 for the Vallejo Gun Violence Prevention Initiative to provide critical resources and strategies to get dangerous firearms, particularly untraceable ghost guns, off our streets.

Rep. Thompson also secured $3.7 billion for the Emergency Relief Program (ERP, formerly known as WHIP+) for agricultural losses sustained in 2022 due to wildfires, drought, freeze, and other natural disasters. Our growers have been facing an unprecedented drought, and this program will help producers to rebuild and recover by providing financial assistance to cover a portion of their losses. This program is important because it helps to ensure that farmers and ranchers have the resources they need to continue operating their businesses, even in the face of natural disasters. It also helps to stabilize rural communities and keep the agricultural sector strong, which is vital for maintaining a secure and reliable food supply for the country.

Thompson also secured $1,205,966 for UC Davis to acquire two pieces of equipment which are essential for grape smoke exposure research in our district. Research on smoke taint is vital to help winemakers and grape growers better understand the effects of smoke taint, as well as develop strategies for mitigating its impact. This is important because smoke taint can significantly reduce the value and marketability of affected wines, which can have serious economic consequences for the wine industry.

This bill passed the Senate by vote of 68-29. The bill passed the House by a vote of 225-201-1. It will now go to President Biden’s desk for his signature. A detailed summary of the bill is available here.