Monterey Times

Representative Jimmy Panetta, serving California’s 19th district since 2017, has recently made several announcements through his social media account. Panetta, who resides in Carmel Valley and holds degrees from the University of California, Davis, and Santa Clara University, addressed issues ranging from the opioid crisis to taxpayer privacy.

On February 19, 2025, Panetta highlighted the increasing problem of illicit xylazine exacerbating the fentanyl crisis. He stated: "Illicit xylazine is worsening the fentanyl crisis, devastating communities across the country. That’s why I’ve reintroduced the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, a bipartisan bill to crack down on traffickers while protecting veterinarians & farmers."

In another post on February 20, 2025, he emphasized his stance on taxpayer privacy: "No political appointee or billionaire-backed 'efficiency' squad should have unfettered access to Americans’ private tax records. I’ll fight to protect taxpayer privacy and keep the government accountable to the people, not the powerful."

Additionally, addressing healthcare concerns on February 20, 2025, Panetta spoke about Medicare cuts affecting physician availability: "Medicare cuts are driving physician shortages in CA-19 and around the country, leaving seniors with fewer options for care. I co-authored and introduced the Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act to reverse these harmful cuts, support our doctors..."