Mr. Speaker, I rise today during National Police Week to honor the brave men and women, those in blue in law enforcement who put the badge on every day and make the choice to serve their communities, and to remember the officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice whose lives have been lost in the line of duty, and their families who continue to carry that sacrifice with them every single day. In the San Joaquin Valley that I represent, our law enforcement officers are more than public servants. They are coaches. They are mentors. They are neighbors.
2026 MidtermsLean SeatD+5R shift +3$823K raised
Jim Costa
Representative · California · Democrat
Jim Costa
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
Madam Speaker, as our Nation continues to commemorate our 250th anniversary, we are reminded that the ideals on which America was founded are as critical today as they were then: a nation built on a promise that every person has dignity and that no one should be left behind--the land of opportunity. Last month, the House passed the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, funding for the USDA and other ancillary purposes.
Biography
Jim Costa grew up in California’s Central Valley and worked on his family’s dairy farm before entering public service. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for California’s 21st District in 2004, he focuses on water policy, agriculture, and immigration reform—reflecting the needs of his rural constituency. Costa played a key role in advancing the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act and serves on the House Agriculture Committee, where he advocates for farmworker protections and sustainable water solutions. He approaches his work by building bipartisan coalitions and prioritizing practical results for the communities he represents.
Education
- B.A., California State University at Fresno, Fresno1974
Professional History
U.S. Representative
2005-PresentRepresenting California's 21st district
Member, California Senate
1994–2002Chief Executive Officer, Costa Group
2002–03Member, California Assembly
1978–94Administrative Assistant, California Assemblyman Richard Lehman
1976–78Special Assistant, U.S. representative John Krebs
1975–76
Policy Focus
Health19%
Agriculture and Food11%
Water Resources Development8%
Energy7%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Jim Costa's record in Congress.
Water Infrastructure Funding
Secured federal funding for Central Valley water storage and conveyance projects, including the San Joaquin River Restoration Program.
Farm Bill Advocacy
Played a key role in shaping and passing multiple Farm Bills to support California agriculture and specialty crop growers.
Drought Relief Legislation
Introduced and supported legislation providing drought relief and resources to California farmers and rural communities.
Veterans' Health Care Access
Helped expand access to health care services for Central Valley veterans through the establishment of new VA clinics.
Committee Assignments
View details →- House Committee on Agriculture
- House Committee on Foreign Affairs
Rep. Jim Costa FAQ
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