Greetings!

This week, the Biden Administration delivered it's National Security Strategy, and I was very disappointed by their failure to stand with Taiwan and against the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). We cannot allow the CCP to get away with its open hostility toward free and democratic countries, and I'm calling on the Administration to show the CCP and the world that we will not tolerate threats against the United States or our allies.

Additionally, the Department of Labor is pursuing a new regulation that will target independent workers, much like California's Assembly Bill (AB 5). The Department must reverse course immediately and refrain from further crippling our supply chains and burdening hardworking Americans with unreasonable and unworkable regulations.

Get the details about all of this and more below, and make sure to follow my Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to get these updates in real-time.
Supporting Our Allies
This week, the Biden Administration issued its National Security Strategy, which does not support an independent Taiwan and fails to take sufficient steps to counter CCP aggression towards free and democratic countries. The strategy “oppose[s] any unilateral changes to the status quo from either side,” “do[es] not support Taiwan independence,” and remains “committed to our one China policy.” 

The CCP’s continued and open aggression should be a clear signal that they have no intention of respecting Taiwan’s sovereignty. The Biden Administration cannot continue to stick its head in the sand and allow the CCP to dictate the terms of Taiwan’s existence. This communist regime has routinely showcased its disregard for international norms, and now is the time to stand with Taiwan and show the CCP that the United States will not allow intimidation or threats against our allies.
I was proud to support the Boys and Girls Club of Garden Grove at their “Toasting Great Futures." Thank you to all the volunteers, including this year’s “Heart of the Club,” Kingston Technology, for making this event so special!
Apply for the 2022 Congressional App Challenge
My office is now accepting submissions for the Congressional App Challenge (CAC). The CAC is a great way for middle and high school students from across the country to explore and improve their computer-based skills by creating original apps. This competition encourages computer science and innovation skills and offers an opportunity for students to explore potential careers in the STEM field.

Each winning app may be put on display in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year and will be featured on the House of Representatives website. Winning students are also invited to the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill Reception in Washington D.C. 

The CAC is open to 6th - 12th grade students residing in or attending school in California’s 48th District. Teachers and/or students should verify their eligibility with our office by calling (714) 960-6483.
Fighting the Latest Attack on Independent Workers
The Department of Labor has issued a proposed rulemaking to redefine the definition of an “independent contractor,” which would restrict the earning potential of 50 million Americans who have chosen independent work. The proposed rule would return to the Obama Administration’s rigid and narrow definition of independent work and subject more workers to restrictions imposed by “employee” designations. This would raise costs on employers and directly impact worker flexibility.

There are more than 2 million independent contractors and entrepreneurs across California, and the Administration would be foolish to kneecap them by returning to this unworkable Obama-era policy. As Americans are struggling to make ends meet under the crippling weight of the inflation this Administration caused, we should be giving workers more flexibility and opportunity to earn, not tying their hands and imposing union-backed restrictions on how and when they can work.
Deadline Approaching: Military Academy Nominations
For high schoolers thinking about their futures, deciding what to do after graduation can be stressful. Whether studying the trades, attending a traditional four-year university, or joining the workforce, the decisions may seem overwhelming.
 
Attending one of our nation's Military Service Academies is both an incredible opportunity and a distinguished honor for those seeking a top-notch college education. Attendance comes with the obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. 
 
Members of Congress may nominate candidates for appointment to U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

If a student in your life is thinking about applying to one of the military service academies, be sure to visit my website to learn all about the application process, receiving a Congressional nomination, and how my office can assist you!
What I'm Reading
Newsom to call special session to impose tax...

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) announced Friday that he plans to call a special session of the state legislature in December to impose a tax on oil companies' profits as gas prices remain at record levels in the state. The governor's press...

Read more
thehill.com
Opinion | Biden Goes After Gig Workers

The labor market is cooling while more Americans are using side hustles like driving for Uber to cope with rising prices. Yet now the Biden Administration is declaring war on the so-called gig economy and countless companies that utilize...

Read more
www.wsj.com
Thanks for taking the time to read about what I've been doing on behalf of Orange County families. Be sure to connect with my official Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages, where I post the latest news and updates. It is an honor to serve you in Congress.
Sincerely,
Rep. Michelle Steel
Member of Congress