Julia Brownley is a Democratic Representative for California’s 26th congressional district, having served since January 3, 2013. Born on August 28, 1952, in Aiken, South Carolina, she graduated from Fairfax Hall in Waynesboro, Virginia, and earned her B.A. from Mount Vernon College (now part of George Washington University) and her M.B.A. from American University in Washington, D.C. Before her tenure in Congress, Brownley was a marketing executive and served on the Santa Monica-Malibu school district board from 1994 to 2006. She was also a member of the California State Assembly from 2006 to 2012, where she focused on issues like education and health care.

In her time in Congress, Brownley has been an active member of various committees, including the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs and the House Committee on Natural Resources, which underscores her commitment to advancing policies in support of veterans and environmental protections, particularly concerning California's unique coastal ecosystems.

Brownley has sponsored and co-sponsored a range of significant bills reflecting her legislative priorities. Among her notable efforts is the Equal Access to Contraception for Veterans Act (H.R. 211), which aims to limit copayments for contraception provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs, making essential reproductive health services more accessible for veterans. She is also the sponsor of the Veterans Law Judge Experience Act (H.R. 659), which proposes prioritizing experienced legal professionals for appointments to the Board of Veterans' Appeals. This legislation is designed to ensure that those making decisions about veterans’ benefits have the necessary legal expertise.

In the realm of environmental policy, Brownley introduced the California Clean Coast Act (H.R. 2820), which seeks to permanently prohibit oil and gas leasing off the coast of California. This bill points to her commitment to environmental conservation and the protection of California's coastlines. Additionally, she has taken significant steps to address climate change through the Climate Agricultural Conservation Practices Act (H.R. 1854), which integrates climate considerations into agricultural practices.

Politically, Brownley's sponsorship of bills like the Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act (H.R. 2808) and her continuous advocacy for veterans' issues demonstrate her alignment with progressive policies focused on both consumer protection and the welfare of those who have served in the armed forces.

Brownley is married and resides in California, where she is deeply involved with community initiatives and local organizations. Her personal experiences and professional background as a marketing executive and educator shape her approach to governance, where she emphasizes accountability, accessibility, and social equity within her legislative agenda.

Overall, Julia Brownley exemplifies a commitment to progressive values, particularly in environmental stewardship and veteran services, as reflected in her legislative efforts and active participation in relevant committees. Her work aims to not only address immediate needs but also create sustainable policies that will benefit her constituents and the broader community in the long term.