Press Release

Today, U.S. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) sent a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Assistant Secretary Rena Bitter expressing deep concern over the delays in passport processing for California residents and requesting a State Department briefing on processing times and current backlogs.  

In the letter, Representative Bera wrote:

“Since March 2023, there has been a significant increase in requests from our constituents seeking assistance with obtaining passports in time for planned international travel. Despite being the most populous state, California has only three passport agencies to assist its more than 40 million residents. Currently, all Northern California residents, totaling over 15 million people, are directed to the San Francisco passport processing agency. However, the high cost of living (79% higher than the national average) and ongoing housing challenges make it difficult to retain staff at the San Francisco Passport Agency. Additionally, all Southern California and Nevada residents, totaling over 25 million people, are directed to the Los Angeles and San Diego passport processing agencies. Consequently, processing delays, extended shipping times, and increased passport for expedited services due to long processing times have caused frustration and dismay for our constituents.”

To view the full letter, click here.

Representative Bera also co-led a letter to President Biden with Members of the California Congressional delegation urging the State Department to set up temporary passport offices in California to increase in-person appointment capacity. To view the full letter, click here.

Constituents who need assistance with passport delays are encouraged to visit Congressman Bera’s website at: bera.house.gov/passports or call his office at (916) 635-0505.