{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"FL\" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404754", "U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Delivers Hurricane Relief, Major Federal Grants, and $10M+ Directly to Tampa Bay Constituents", "2024-12-23", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) announced today that her team worked to deliver over $10.1 million in aid, benefits and refunds to veterans, seniors, small businesses, and families in 2024. In addition, $1,469,469,742 in federal grants were secured for the community for investments in education, infrastructure, good-paying jobs, safer neighborhoods, and cleaner, cheaper energy. Castor credits her team, local partners and nonprofits in helping win such significant federal investments for the Tampa Bay area.\n\n\u201cCollaboration and teamwork are key to making progress for Tampa Bay. My congressional constituent services team works tirelessly to cut through red tape on behalf of families, veterans, and businesses. In a year with unprecedented challenges due to the hurricanes, our neighbors needed our team to assist them more than ever. I am grateful for all that Steven Angotti, Tania Fernandez, Damaris Gonzalez and Sean Saintil \u2013 as well as the entire Castor Team \u2013 did this year. I could not be prouder of my dedicated casework team that went above and beyond to help Tampa Bay families rebuild and navigate FEMA and Small Business disaster assistance. Their expertise and compassion are critical to ensuring that families and small businesses can thrive, that our Veterans receive the benefits they have earned and that Social Security and Medicare benefits are delivered on time.\n\n\u201cThe growing Tampa Bay area continues to reap the benefits of federal investments, thanks to the historic Infrastructure law, Inflation Reduction Act and the work of Biden-Harris Administration \u2013 and we need it. A record 386 federal grants were awarded across the Tampa Bay area in 2024 including, but not limited to, critical investments for the Tampa International Airport and Port Tampa Bay, cost-saving electric school busses, job trainings and expanded health care services. I love my hometown and am committed to lifting every neighbor by eliminating costly junk fees, addressing the serious maternal and infant health crisis by working to reduce stillbirth rates in the United States, protecting outdoor workers in Florida by finalizing safety rules for hazardous extreme heat, and lowering Floridians electric bills through modernized energy efficiency strategies. I take my responsibility seriously to advocate for neighbors across the Tampa Bay area and will never stop working to secure federal dollars for our vibrant community.\n\n\u201cThis year, I was also proud to continue pushing for the passage of legislation to protect our children online, create lasting solutions to solve the climate crisis, and create more high-quality, affordable health care options. With 56 pieces of legislation introduced in the 118th Congress, I kept community needs and the best interests of families at the forefront of my work so I could continue to deliver for you.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-cherfilus-mccormick-commends-bidens-decision-stop-execution-37", "Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Commends Biden's Decision to Stop Execution of 37 Individuals on Federal Death Row", "2024-12-23", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "TAMARAC, FL \u2013 Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick applauds President Biden for commuting the sentences of 37 individuals on federal death row from execution to life without parole.\n\n\u201cToday, President Biden reaffirmed America\u2019s relentless pursuit of equal protection under the law. His historic decision to pardon those with low-level marijuana offenses and grant more sentence reductions than any other president in recent history sends a powerful message that America must deliver on its promise of a fair and just society.\n\n\u201cThe stark reality is that the death penalty has often been unfairly given to marginalized communities, highlighting the systemic problems in our justice system. In Florida alone, 34 people have been cleared from death row since 1973. Of these individuals, more than half were people of color. These aren\u2019t just numbers; they represent lives deeply devastated by a flawed system that can be prone to mistakes.\n\n\u201cThe risk of wrongful convictions due to incorrect eyewitness accounts, racial bias, and unreliable forensic evidence is too great. Each case represents a potential tragedy, often impacting the most vulnerable among us.\n\n\u201cWe cannot remain silent in the face of such a serious moral issue. No American should have their life taken from them due to errors in the justice system. We must end the federal death penalty and create a society that focuses on rehabilitation rather than retribution.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-wasserman-schultz-lead-letter-urging-president-biden-us-secretary", "Soto, Wasserman Schultz Lead Letter Urging President Biden, US Secretary of Homeland Security Mayorkas to Extend and Redesignate Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status", "2024-12-23", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Darren Soto", "S001200", "soto.house.gov", "soto", "https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Last week, Reps. Darren Soto (FL-09) and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) led a letter to President Joe Biden and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, urging the Department to extend and redesignate Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status. Currently, the 2023 redesignation is set to expire on April 2, 2025, and the 2021 extension is set to expire on September 10, 2025.\n\n\u201cPolitical instability, endemic corruption, and repression under Maduro\u2019s authoritarian regime has led to massive food and medicine shortages, with millions living in poverty and suffering from food insecurity. Venezuela\u2019s economy has contracted by more than 80% since 2014, which is more than twice the magnitude of the Great Depression in the United States,\u201d wrote the Members. \u201cDue to the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, Venezuelans have consistently been the leading nationality requesting asylum in the United States since 2016. As of June 2023, U.N. agencies believe that over 7.3 million Venezuelans have fled the country, many of whom have resettled in neighboring countries like Colombia and Brazil.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe number of displaced individuals from Venezuela only continues to grow after the undemocratic and fraudulent elections held on July 28, 2024. The United States and many other countries have rightfully rejected Maduro\u2019s false claims of victory, noting that these results were \u2018deeply flawed, yielding an announced outcome that does not represent the will of the Venezuelan people,\u2019 and recognized opposition candidate Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez Urrutia as president-elect,\u201d continued the Members. \u201cThe United States has imposed targeted sanctions in response to the Maduro regime\u2019s brutal repression\u2026\u201d\n\n\u201cGiven Venezuela\u2019s increased instability and lack of safety, and within all applicable rules and regulations, we strongly urge your full and fair consideration of an early extension and redesignation of Venezuela for TPS to ensure stability and certainty of the program. We also ask that you continue to provide safety and support to Venezuelans fleeing the political, economic and humanitarian crisis currently plaguing their home. Finally, in light of the inhumane conditions in Venezuela, we ask that you suspend planned nonemergency repatriation of Venezuelans who claim a credible fear of facing repression, imprisonment, or torture upon their return.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Reps. Soto and Wasserman Schultz, the letter was signed by Florida Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24), as well as Reps. Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52), and Nydia Vel\u00e1zquez (NY-07).\n\nFor the full text of the letter, please click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404752", "REP. CASTOR STATEMENT ON LONG-OVERDUE DISASTER RELIEF", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement after voting to pass a major disaster relief package:\n\n\u201cDesperately needed disaster aid is on its way to Florida families and business owners to help them recover from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.\n\n\u201cThe $100 billion disaster aid package will deliver resources to help Tampa Bay neighbors get back on their feet, cover costly debris removal, and repair MacDill Air Force Base and local Coast Guard stations. The package provides support to rebuild housing, water plants, and other critical infrastructure across Tampa Bay.\n\n\u201cThe legislation includes $29 billion to replenish the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund, the primary federal disaster relief fund that provides financial assistance to individuals to repair their homes and property, as well as assisting state and local governments with debris removal, infrastructure repair and hazard mitigation. Funding ensures that FEMA has the resources it needs to process applications for assistance through the January 07, 2025, deadline.\n\n\u201cTo help individuals rebuild and reopen, it includes $2.25 billion for low-interest Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans for businesses, homeowners, renters and private non-profit organizations. SBA will now be able to make loan offers to the over 11,600 applicants in the queue. Disaster-impacted neighbors should continue to apply for disaster loans through January 07, 2025.\n\n\u201cTo safeguard our national security, support our service members and ensure military readiness, the legislation importantly includes significant funding to address damage at MacDill and the St. Pete Coast Guard stations. Funding may be used to repair hangers and runways, base housing, child care centers and other critical infrastructure.\n\n\u201cThe legislation also includes major funding to harden our water and wastewater infrastructure against flooding events, protecting the health and safety of our neighbors and Tampa Bay.\n\n\u201cI am proud to have championed many of these provisions and am committed to further recovery needs in the days ahead.\u201d\n\nThis sweeping legislation includes:\n\n$29 billion for FEMA\u2019s Disaster Relief Fund to address urgent recovery needs;\n\n$12 billion in Community Development Block Grants for Disaster Recovery to support long-term housing, infrastructure and economic recovery needs;\n\n$2.25 billion for low-interest SBA disaster loans;\n\n$3.4 billion to repair disaster-impacted Department of Defense facilities, like MacDill AFB;\n\n$312.7 million to repair Coast Guard facilities, like Sector St. Pete and Air Station Clearwater;\n\n$68 million to repair impacted VA facilities, like Bay Pines Veterans Hospital;\n\n$3.25 billion to upgrade water and wastewater systems;\n\n$1.5 billion for disaster-related water projects, including funding to help renourish Florida beaches; and\n\n$1 billion for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) initiatives, including $400,000 for Gulf of Mexico and oceanic research repair at St. Petersburg Bayboro Harbor.\n\nIn the end, Democrats were able to stop Musk and Republicans from paving the way for a huge new tax cut for billionaires at the expense of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. We stood firm on that commitment. The American people won this round. But the fight isn\u2019t over: Musk won\u2019t stop demanding tax cuts for billionaires and huge cuts to Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, veterans\u2019 health care, and food assistance.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-cherfilus-mccormicks-statement-her-vote-prevent", "Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s Statement on Her Vote to Prevent a Government Shutdown", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) issued the following statement on her vote to prevent a government shutdown.\n\n\u201cToday, I voted to keep the government open, ensuring critical services remain available to our families, veterans, and seniors in South Florida. This bill provides disaster relief to our communities in the aftermath of recent Hurricanes such as Helene and Milton and protects the over 9,000 hardworking federal employees in my district.\n\nAfter a week of chaos led by \u2018President\u2019 Musk, Speaker Johnson, and Donald Trump, House Democrats again stepped up to deliver for America\u2019s families.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3766", "Rep. Frankel Statement After Voting to Prevent Government Shutdown", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Lois Frankel", "F000462", "frankel.house.gov", "frankel", "https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Rep. Lois Frankel (FL-22) released the following statement after voting in favor of legislation to extend government funding until March 14, 2025, and avert a government shutdown.\n\n\u201cWith the vote tonight, we responsibly keep the government open, and Florida and other areas of the country get much-needed disaster relief from the tornados and hurricanes that damaged homes and businesses,\u201d said Rep. Frankel.\n\nThe bill includes $110 billion in disaster relief funding, including more than $10 billion for Florida.\n\nThe bill passed by a vote of 366-34-1. It now heads to the Senate for its approval.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-wilson-s-statement-on-the-passage-of-the-continuing-resolution-to-keep-the-government-open", "Rep. Wilson's Statement on the Passage of the Continuing Resolution to Keep the Government Open", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson released the following statement on the passage of the Continuing Resolution to keep Government open, to which she voted 'yes':\n\n\"Our most basic duty as Congress is to keep the government running because a shutdown is never worth the cost. Denying pay to our troops, TSA workers, and millions of Americans who depend on government services is inexcusable. Democrats have always stood ready to find common ground and work with our Republican colleagues to deliver for the American people. Today proves that commitment. This bill to keep the government open even includes over $10 billion in disaster aid for those impacted by the hurricanes this year in Florida. We also avoided some of the poison pills pushed by far-right extremists. These wins are thanks to House Democrats' efforts.\n\n\"But let's be clear: we didn't have to pass this bill at the eleventh hour before government closes. We had a bipartisan deal to keep the government open. Then House Republicans, taking their marching orders from Elon Musk, threw it all away to push us to the brink of a shutdown. I'm deeply disappointed this bill stripped out critical measures like the Haitian Economic Lift Program and proposals to ease everyday costs for working families. Yet even after days of chaos, Republicans came back to Democrats to clean up their mess\u2014because they learned the hard way that Elon Musk has no idea how to govern.\n\n\"These last two days are just a preview of the disaster ahead if Republicans continue to put billionaires before the American people. The Republican Party isn't just ignoring the American people\u2014they're selling them out to Elon Musk and his gang of billionaire cronies. Instead of serving the public, they're handing over the reins of power to President Elon Musk, a tech overlord who's accountable to no one but his own greed. Do you remember ever seeing his name on the ballot? Did you vote for him to be President?\n\n\"The American people deserve better than being ruled by the whims of out-of-touch billionaires \u2014 billionaires pulling the strings while hardworking Americans get crushed.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404750", "ICYMI: Rep. Castor Calls Out Republicans for Delaying Disaster Aid for FL Families, Small Businesses and Local Communities", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) hosted a press conference to shed light on Republicans\u2019 breaking their promise to the American people by further delaying critical disaster assistance that families, businesses and communities desperately need to rebuild.\n\n\u201cRepublican chaos and dysfunction are hurting Floridians at a time we need solutions and cost-savings,\u201d said Rep. Castor. Tampa Bay neighbors want a sense of normalcy, especially during the holiday season. This turmoil created by House Republicans and billionaire Elon Musk is going to slow our recovery. It\u2019s going to hit people in the pocketbooks, and it\u2019s irresponsible.\u201d\n\nA downloadable video file is available here.\n\nHurricanes Helene and Milton wreaked havoc in the Tampa Bay area, causing extensive damage. With over 11,600 applications for Small Business Administration Disaster Loans and thousands of Floridians seeking FEMA emergency assistance to rebuild their homes, securing this funding is crucial for long-term recovery. A delay in legislation could lead to Florida losing over $10 billion in disaster aid, surpassing any other state in losses.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404751", "CASTOR STATEMENT ON DISASTER AID", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement after voting in favor of $100 billion in emergency disaster aid for Florida communities and individuals who were hit hard by Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton:\n\n\u201cSpeaker Johnson and Republicans need to get serious, stop kowtowing to Elon Musk and offer a bill with broad bipartisan support because Floridians need disaster assistance now. House Republicans have caused too many delays and diversions as families, small businesses and communities grapple with rebuilding after the devastating hurricanes. We have been waiting for months for Republicans to act,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cFloridians are resilient, but I voted to support families and small businesses impacted by disasters who deserve swift and effective support to get back on their feet. Billionaire Musk wields too much power. House Republicans should stop trying to placate him and instead act on behalf of the people who need emergency aid and a government that works for them.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3765", "Rep. Frankel Announces Over $300,000 for Public Safety Upgrades and Criminal Justice Reform in Palm Beach County", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Lois Frankel", "F000462", "frankel.house.gov", "frankel", "https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Rep. Lois Frankel (FL-22) released the following statement after Palm Beach County and several cities received grants from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to strengthen public safety, prevent crime, and improve the local criminal justice system.\n\n\u201cKeeping our communities safe is paramount,\u201d said Rep. Frankel. \u201cThese grants will provide local officials with the resources they need to strengthen our public safety, reduce and prevent crime, and aid re-entry efforts for individuals released from incarceration.\u201d\n\nThe funding was awarded through the DOJ\u2019s Justice Assistance Grant Program and includes the following initiatives:\n\nA community-based re-entry initiative for individuals returning from prison sentences, in partnership between The Lord\u2019s Place and Palm Beach County;\n\nA Holiday Robbery and Burglary Task Force in Delray Beach, designed to reduce crime during the holiday season through high-visibility patrols and updated community policing strategies;\n\nPolice e-bikes in West Palm Beach to improve officer safety and response times;\n\nInstallation of security cameras in Greenacres to detect and deter crime;\n\nUpgraded equipment for the Palm Springs Police Department;\n\nAn Out-of-School Literacy Program Specialist in Lake Worth Beach to foster positive relationships and improve educational opportunities for at-risk youth;\n\nSecurity cameras and equipment in Boynton Beach to improve crime prevention initiatives through the city\u2019s Real Time Crime Center (RTCC); and\n\nCrime investigation software in Boca Raton to improve public safety.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-wilson-and-rep-salazar-s-bipartisan-effort-for-duty-free-haitian-apparel-imports-included-in-final-continued-resolution", "Rep. Wilson and Rep. Salazar's Bipartisan Effort for Duty-Free Haitian Apparel Imports Included in Final Continued Resolution", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congresswoman Frederica Wilson and Congresswoman Mar\u00eda Elvira Salazar's bipartisan effort to extend the Haitian Economic Lift Program, which would allow duty-free access for Haitian apparel and textile imports, was included in the final continued resolution expected to pass. Congresswoman Frederica Wilson was the Democratic lead for the Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act of 2023, and pushed the legislation alongside the Republican leads, Congresswoman Maria Salazar (FL-27) and Congressman Brad Wenstrup (OH-2). In the Senate, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio of Florida led the effort. This joint effort originally started in 2021 in the 117th Congress.\n\n\"I'm thrilled to see years of advocacy for Haiti pay off with the inclusion of duty-free access for Haitian apparel in the final continuing resolution. This is a crucial step forward for Haiti, enhancing the successes of the original HELP Act. By extending these trade benefits until 2030, we are not only supporting a vital sector of Haiti's economy but also providing hope and stability to thousands of hardworking Haitians. This bipartisan effort underscores our commitment to fostering economic resilience in Haiti, reducing unemployment, and discouraging paths to violence,\" Congresswoman Frederica Wilson said. \"I want to thank Senator Marco Rubio, Congressman Brad Wenstrup, and Congresswoman Maria Salazar for their leadership in advocating for this proposal. I am also grateful to Speaker Mike Johnson and Leader Hakeem Jeffries for including it in the continuing resolution. We cannot forget the people of Haiti. They are suffering, and today's announcement is a win for them.\"\n\n\"I am thrilled to see the extension of the HOPE/HELP trade program with Haiti included in the government funding bill,\" said Rep. Mar\u00eda Elvira Salazar. \"This bill will promote critical regional stability by ensuring the survival of the clothing and textile industry in Haiti, the backbone of their economy. This is very important for the futures of Miami, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and the rest of the Caribbean.\"\n\nFollowing the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti in 2010, Congress enacted the Haitian Economic Lift Program (HELP) Act, which expanded the range of goods eligible for duty-free treatment to include over 5,000 varieties of apparel and footwear. This legislation played a significant role in revitalizing Haiti's manufacturing sector, but it is scheduled to expire in 2025.\n\nThis bipartisan bill, now largely included in the Continued Resolution, aims to continue the trade benefits for apparel produced in Haiti for an additional five years, extending the current provisions from 2025 to 2030. The eligible products represent 93 percent of Haiti's exports and provide essential employment opportunities for thousands of Haitians, many of whom might otherwise resort to joining violent gangs or attempting to migrate to the United States.\n\nFor the continued resolution bill text, click here [page 146-148; Section 303].\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404745", "U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Cheers New Consumer Savings Rule", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) applauded the Federal Trade Commission\u2019s (FTC) new Junk Fees Rule, which eliminates hidden fees on live-event tickets and short-term lodging, saving American consumers significant time and money. The rule brings transparency to pricing by requiring businesses to disclose the full price upfront, making it easier for families to budget and compare options.\n\n\u201cFamilies shouldn\u2019t have to play a guessing game when planning a night out or a trip. Sneaky hidden fees are a burden. They drive up costs and leave families frustrated at checkout. This new rule ensures that the price you see for concert tickets and hotel stays is the price you pay\u2014no hidden fees, no surprises,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cThe FTC junk fee rule mirrors legislation I led to reign in out-of-control Junk Fees and lower costs. It\u2019s about fairness, transparency and saving hardworking families both time and money so they can focus on making memories together, not worrying about unexpected charges.\u201d\n\nThe FTC estimates that the Junk Fees Rule will save consumers up to $11 billion over the next decade by eliminating unnecessary fees and wasted time spent searching for accurate prices. The rule targets misleading \u201cresort fees,\u201d \u201cservice fees\u201d and other hidden charges in the live-event ticketing and lodging industries, ensuring that pricing is transparent, honest and upfront.\n\nCastor introduced the bipartisan No Hidden Fees on Extra Expenses for Stays (No Hidden FEES) Act with Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) to improve cost transparency for stays in short-term lodgings, such as hotels, motels and inns. The No Hidden FEES Act of 2023 passed the U.S. House on June 11, 2024.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-maxwell-frost-announces-over-4-million-returned-to-central-floridians-and-3500-cases-solved-via-offices-constituent-services", "Congressman Maxwell Frost Announces Over $4 Million Returned to Central Floridians and 3,500 Cases Solved Via Office\u2019s Constituent Services", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Maxwell Frost", "F000476", "frost.house.gov", "frost", "https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ORLANDO, FL \u2014 Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL) announced that his office has helped return over $4 million in money owed to constituents of Florida's 10th Congressional District from various federal agencies.\n\nIn August, Congressman Frost had previously announced a total of $3 million dollars returned to constituents. And in just 4 months, the Congressman\u2019s office has been able to return an additional million dollars to constituents while closing an additional 500 cases.\n\n\"When we talk about returning money to our constituents, this is money that is rightfully owed to them, but because of government red tape, there are delays or errors in disbursements that keep much needed money out of folks' pockets,\u201d said Congressman Maxwell Frost. \u201cBut that's where our constituent services team steps in to advocate for our people and ensure folks receive what they are owed from federal agencies like the IRS or Social Security. These returns can sometimes be upwards of tens of thousands of dollars, which can be life-changing for working people.\u201d\n\n\"No matter what the next Administration may do to limit government programs\u2014 my team and I will be hyper focused on fighting for the people of Central Florida and continuing to support our constituents. We're committed to showing folks that the government can work for people and deliver real results for them.\"\n\nConstituents needing help with a federal agency can submit a request online at frost.house.gov or call the Congressman's Orlando office at 321-388-9808.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3280", "Wasserman Schultz, Cornyn, Blumenthal, Colleagues' Bill to Combat Child Exploitation Passes Senate", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Josh Hawley (R-MO), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Representatives Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) released the following statements after their PROTECT Our Children Act, which would reauthorize and modernize the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program, passed the Senate:\n\n\u201cFor decades, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has played a critical role in protecting our children from exploitation,\u201d said Sen. Cornyn. \u201cBy extending and modernizing this program, our bill would help put vicious criminals behind bars and safeguard our next generation, and I urge the House to pass it swiftly.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe must save children who are victims of the most ongoing vile, stomach-churning crimes because child sexual abuse goes unstopped,\u201d said Sen. Blumenthal. \u201cProtecting such victims is urgent and imperative\u2014and we have an obligation to provide tools and resources necessary to do it. The PROTECT Our Children Act reauthorizes and modernizes the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Programs, enabling law enforcement to combat the exploding, serious dangers of abhorrent abuse in an online society. This essential legislation will help safeguard our children and hold predators accountable.\u201d\n\n\u201cThere is no frontier that poses a bigger threat to the next generation than technology and the internet,\u201d said Sen. Hawley. \u201cThe PROTECT Our Children Act gives law enforcement the resources, assistance, and infrastructure they need to combat child sexual exploitation and internet crimes. I\u2019m proud to support reauthorization of this crucial program.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn almost every aspect of the real world, child safety is a top priority. That sense of urgency should extend to the virtual world too,\u201d said Sen. Durbin. \u201cI\u2019m pleased that our legislation to ensure that the ICAC Program has the resources it needs so state and local law enforcement can continue to hold perpetrators accountable and make the internet safer for its youngest users passed the U.S. Senate.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis legislation is critical to ensuring that children are not left at the mercy of evil predators,\u201d said Rep. Moran. \u201cIt is imperative that we combat these heinous crimes, ensure thorough investigations and swift justice for victims, and advance the important work of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program. Reauthorizing this task force will empower law enforcement to dismantle networks of exploitation and protect vulnerable children from online predators nationwide.\u201d\n\n\u201cChildren deserve to grow up safe, without the fear of exploitation, and the ICAC Task Force Program helps us secure that possibility. ICAC arrests have gone up significantly over the years, with nearly 11,000 made last fiscal year alone, getting perpetrators off the streets and away from our children. But more needs to be done. I\u2019m grateful for and proud to work with my colleagues across the aisle to reaffirm our commitment to America\u2019s children and build on the original PROTECT Act that I authored over a decade ago,\u201d said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. \u201cTechnology evolves rapidly, so we have to move just as fast to make the internet a safe space for children and guard against those who try to exploit them.\u201d\n\nU.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) are cosponsors of the legislation.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against children. This encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, and community education. This national network of 61 coordinated task forces represents more than 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies engaged in both proactive and reactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions.\n\nSince 1998, ICAC Task Forces have trained more than 826,700 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and other professionals on techniques to investigative and prosecute ICAC-related cases. They have also reviewed more than 1,452,040 reports of online child exploitation, resulting in the arrest of more than 123,790 suspects.\n\nThe PROTECT Our Children Act would:\n\nUpdate and modernize the requirements for the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, including requiring the U.S. Department of Justice to provide detailed, useful information on efforts to protect children nationwide;\n\nProvide liability protection for ICAC Task Forces in the course of conducting criminal investigations of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and child abuse material;\n\nMake needed technical improvements and clarifications to the statutory text of the program to match it to current technology and needs;\n\nFocus the ICAC program on both proactive and reactive investigations;\n\nAnd reauthorize the ICAC Program through 2027 with an escalator authorization.\n\nThe PROTECT Our Children Act is endorsed by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Children's Alliance, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), Rights 4 Girls, National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), Raven, Fraternal Order of Police, Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404744", "Reps. Castor, Kim Urge Congress to Confront Stillbirth Public Health Crisis", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor (D-FL) and Young Kim (R-CA) memorialized the stories of over 1,500 parents and loved ones impacted by the stillbirth public health crisis in the Congressional Record and urged Congress to pass their bipartisan Stillbirth Health Improvement and Education (SHINE) for Autumn Act before years end. The bill was passed out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee unanimously and is awaiting House Leadership to bring it up for a vote.\n\n\u201cAt least one out of every four stillbirths is estimated to be preventable, but there is still too much we do not know,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cThat\u2019s why we need real change that will lead to measurable improvements, and the SHINE for Autumn Act will help achieve this goal. I urge my colleagues to make the SHINE for Autumn Act law before the end of the year to confront this crisis and improve outcomes for mothers and babies.\u201d\n\n\u201cDespite alarming statistics, stillbirth is one of the most underfunded and underresearched public health issues today,\u201d said Rep. Kim. \u201cTo address high stillbirth rates, we need to improve data collection, research, and awareness. The SHINE for Autumn Act would do just that. I hope for swift action from Congress to ensure healthier pregnancies and decrease stillbirth rates.\u201d\n\nRead their stories here.\n\nThe SHINE for Autumn Act aims to bridge gaps in stillbirth data, research, and education by allowing for:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-wilson-applauds-president-biden-for-providing-clemency-for-nearly-1500-americans-and-urges-the-president-to-issue-more-pardons", "Rep. Wilson Applauds President Biden for Providing Clemency for Nearly 1,500 Americans and Urges the President to Issue More Pardons", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Congresswoman Frederica Wilson issued the following statement after President Biden Announced Clemency for nearly 1,500 Americans:\n\n\"Today's announcement from President Biden is a powerful reminder that justice includes compassion and the opportunity for redemption. By granting clemency to nearly 1,500 individuals and pardoning 39 nonviolent offenders, he's reaffirming America's commitment to second chances and fairness. These decisions honor the progress made by those who've worked to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities. I thank President Biden for his action today, but our work isn't done yet,\" Congresswoman Frederica Wilson said. \"President Biden still has a little over a month left in office, and I hope he uses that time to build on today's decision by pardoning more nonviolent offenders and more deserving folks who have turned their lives around. This especially includes Black men who have disproportionately suffered from mass incarceration for non-violent offenses. By extending clemency to more deserving individuals, he can further solidify his legacy of compassion and justice in his final days in office.\"\n\nOn November 20th, 2024, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson joined her Congressional colleagues in calling President Biden to issue more pardons. Click here for the full letter.\n\nOn December 5th, 2024, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson sent a letter to the President urging pardons for Desmond Meade and Michael Keister. Click here for the full letter.\n\nOn May 25th, 2023, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson and Congressman Maxwell Frost led a letter to President Biden calling him to pardon Civil Rights Leader and Nobel Peace Prize Nominee Desmond Meade, the Executive Director of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition. Click here for the full letter.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404737", "Critical Mineral Policy Working Group Unveils Bipartisan Legislation, Policy Report", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Reps. Kathy Castor (D-FL) and Rob Wittman (R-VA), co-chairs of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party\u2019s (CCP) Critical Minerals Working Group, led the introduction of new bipartisan legislation that helps address the United States\u2019 dependence on the CCP for critical minerals and jumpstart American industry and workforce alongside our allies and partners.\n\nSpearheaded by Rep. Castor and Rep. Wittman, the working group spent months evaluating the United States\u2019 deep reliance on the CCP for critical minerals and developing solutions. Now, members are introducing three new bipartisan bills and a bipartisan working group policy report, Creating Resilient Critical Mineral Supply Chains. Members of the Critical Mineral Policy Working Group are: Rep. Castor, Rep. Wittman, Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO), Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI), Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY), and Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA).\n\nThe bills developed by the working group are the Earth Sciences and Cooperation Enhancement Act of 2024, an amendment to the Export Reform Act of 2018, and the Critical Minerals Workforce Enhancement Act. Summaries of the bills and the report can be found below.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s dependence on adversarial nations for critical minerals poses a significant threat to our national security and our clean energy future,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cThis legislative package promotes sustainable development and strengthens our domestic supply chains through international partnerships, export controls and workforce development. I\u2019m grateful to Rep. Wittman and our working group colleagues for the meaningful, bipartisan work that created this package. By working together, we can enhance our energy security and create new opportunities for American workers and businesses.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Chinese Communist Party\u2019s dominance of global critical minerals supply chains poses a dire economic threat to U.S. national security,\u201d said Rep. Wittman. \u201cAs lead of the Select Committee\u2019s Critical Minerals Policy Working Group, I\u2019ve spent the past few months convening roundtables with experts to inform Congress on securing our critical mineral supply chains. We have worked to generate proposals to reduce China\u2019s dominance, which has run unchecked for far too long. Their product dumping, escalatory export controls, destructive environmental practices, and forced labor abuses must not be tolerated. I\u2019m proud of these comprehensive pieces of legislation that will remove unnecessary export controls on key critical minerals and improve scientific and technical cooperation in the earth sciences with allied foreign countries. These bills will help us fundamentally reset the United States\u2019 economic and technological competition with China.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe success of the American industrial economy is dependent on our foremost adversary for essential critical minerals. This is untenable and dangerous for the American people, and the legislation the working group is introducing today will safeguard America\u2019s supply chains and reduce our economy\u2019s dependence on the Chinese Communist Party,\u201d said Chairman Moolenaar. \u201cThank you to Rep. Wittman and Rep. Castor for their bipartisan leadership and the solutions they have crafted on behalf of the Select Committee.\u201d\n\n\u201cI want to thank Reps. Castor and Wittman for their bipartisan leadership and collaboration in introducing three bipartisan pieces of legislation and a bipartisan policy report that will help our country diversify its critical minerals supply moving forward and reduce our reliance on the PRC and other foreign sources for critical materials. I\u2019m pleased that these bills provide a significant boost to American industry and workforce to meet the growing demand for critical minerals that are essential to our national security and clean energy technologies,\" said Ranking Member Krishnamoorthi.\n\nThe report outlines the rationale for creating the Policy Working Group, summarizes the working group\u2019s meetings, and recommends legislation to address critical mineral supply chain vulnerabilities. The report also highlights bipartisan legislation introduced by members of the House and Senate that would improve supply chain resilience.\n\nThe Earth Sciences and Cooperation Enhancement Act of 2024\n\nThe Earth Sciences and Cooperation Enhancement Act of 2024 authorizes and appropriates funds for the Secretary of the Interior to enter into Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with foreign governments to facilitate collaboration on earth sciences and critical mineral supply chains. These agreements encourage cooperation with foreign government and private sector entities, to advance geologic mapping, mineral resource assessment, data analysis, and training in environmental and workplace standards. MOUs also facilitate partnerships between U.S. entities, including government agencies, universities, and private companies, with their foreign counterparts. The Act emphasizes collaboration with partner countries that are strategic allies or critical mineral sources, fostering sustainable development and supply chain security.\n\nThe Act authorizes $3 million for fiscal year 2025, requiring funding to directly advance MOUs. Remaining funds may be used for critical mineral data collection and shared data management initiatives with partner countries. Additionally, the Act encourages broader participation from scientists, international organizations, and other stakeholders. By leveraging international cooperation and geoscientific expertise, the Act aims to enhance the United States\u2019 ability to manage critical mineral resources, improve supply chain resiliency, and reduce reliance on foreign adversaries for essential materials.\n\nAmendment to the Export Reform Control Act of 2018\n\nThe proposed bill amends the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 to implement export controls on black mass (recycled lithium-ion battery material) and swarf (magnet manufacturing byproducts) to prevent exploitation by foreign adversaries, particularly the PRC. The bill aims to strengthen domestic critical mineral supply chains, support battery recycling and processing industries, and counter PRC market manipulation.\n\nUnder the legislation, a license will be required for the export, re-export, or in-country transfer of black mass and swarf if the end-user is a foreign adversary or related entity. Applications for these licenses would be denied to foreign adversaries, including PRC entities with direct or indirect government, military, or CCP influence.\n\nThe bill seeks to facilitate the sustainable recycling and recovery of critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel from spent batteries; enhance U.S. processing capabilities; and limit adversarial control over essential materials. By restricting exports of recyclable materials containing critical minerals, the legislation seeks to bolster U.S. industries and reduce reliance on adversarial nations for strategically significant resources.\n\nCritical Minerals Workforce Enhancement Act\n\nThe Critical Minerals Workforce Enhancement Act aims to strengthen the U.S. workforce in mining, refining, processing, and recycling critical minerals by amending key education and workforce laws. The bill introduces a national interest waiver under the Immigration and Nationality Act to allow foreign engineers specializing in critical minerals to work full-time in the U.S. for businesses or government agencies, fostering domestic expertise in critical mineral production and recycling.\n\nAdditionally, the bill amends the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 to promote international educational exchanges focused on critical minerals. It enables U.S. citizens to study abroad at specialized institutions and facilitates enrollment of foreign students in U.S. programs related to critical minerals. The legislation encourages educational partnerships, research collaborations, joint degree programs, and training initiatives between U.S. and foreign institutions. It also provides funding for scholarships, fellowships, and grants to support professional development in critical minerals sectors globally.\n\nBy addressing workforce gaps through targeted workforce reforms and fostering international educational collaboration, the Act seeks to ensure a robust and skilled labor force capable of meeting the growing demand for critical minerals essential to national security and clean energy technologies.\n\nClick HERE for a copy of The Creating Resilient Critical Mineral Supply Chains Report\n\nClick HERE for bill text of The Earth Sciences and Cooperation Enhancement Act of 2024\n\nClick HERE for bill text of the amendment to the Export Reform Control Act of 2018", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404738", "Castor Votes for MacDill AFB, Big Pay Raise for Troops in FY25 NDAA", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement upon passage of the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):\n\n\u201cOur military service members and their families deserve unwavering support, so I am proud that the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) delivers a well-deserved pay raise for our troops while safeguarding America\u2019s national security and boosting vital strategic alliances.\n\n\u201cI am particularly proud to have championed parts of the defense bill that benefit the service members and families at MacDill Air Force Base, including pay raises and critical improvements to on-base housing, health care and childcare. As Co-Chair of the Special Forces Caucus, I am also gratified that Congress will invest in Special Operations Forces and SOCOM to support service members and their families to retain top talent.\n\n\u201cWe owe it to our service members to address the cost of living. That\u2019s why I fought to secure a 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5 percent pay raise for all other service members. This well-earned pay raise will provide meaningful relief to service members and their families. Additionally, the NDAA increases the Basic Needs Allowance, helping military families better manage grocery and housing costs.\n\n\u201cChild care is another top priority for military families. The NDAA fully funds child care fee assistance initiatives to eliminate waitlists for eligible families. It also makes needed investments to recruit, train and retain child care personnel to expand the DoD child care workforce.\n\n\u201cSafe, clean housing is essential for service members and their families at MacDill and around the world. The NDAA includes significant investments to accelerate the replacement of mold-laden housing and barracks.\n\n\u201cI am deeply disappointed in Speaker Johnson\u2019s choice to hijack meaningful bipartisan work to inject a highly partisan provision targeting LGBTQ+ children. His decision to turn this defense bill into a vehicle for extremist culture wars breaks decades of traditionally bipartisan work for our nation\u2019s men and women in uniform.\n\n\u201cI am proud of the bipartisan efforts that led to substantial pay increases for service members. This bill also makes crucial improvements in areas such as housing, health care, childcare, and spousal support for both service members and their families. I'm proud that Democrats successfully opposed numerous detrimental measures targeting DEI programs, the LGBTQ+ community and reproductive rights. Achieving these results required significant bipartisan compromise. \"\n\nSupporting Military Service Members and their Families:\n\n14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted service members\n\n4.5% pay raise for all other service members\n\nIncrease in the Basic Needs Allowance (BNA)\n\nIncreased investments in child development centers\n\nIncreased investments in child care for military families\n\nMilitary Housing:\n\n$177 million towards military construction design funds to accelerate the replacement of poor and failing unaccompanied housing and barracks.\n\nProvides funds to keep DoD facilities in good working order and reduce the maintenance backlog\n\nAccelerates the replacement of poor and failing unaccompanied housing and barracks\n\nRequires the creation of a digital maintenance system to allow residents in unaccompanied housing to submit work orders\n\nHealth Care:\n\nEliminates copays for eligible TRICARE beneficiaries for contraceptives\n\nProvides tele-mental health care services to service members and their dependents\n\nImproves and expands care for certain service-related injuries\n\nSupporting Military Service Members and their Families\n\nOver $176 million for the development of new childcare centers\n\nOver $110 million for construction of new schools for children of servicemembers\n\nEnergy and Environment:\n\n$674 million for energy conservation and resiliency projects\n\n$75 million for environmental cleanup of remaining Base Realignment and Closure Site Act sites\n\nThe FY2025 NDAA Conference Report passed by a margin of 281-140 in the House. The bill now heads to the U.S. Senate.\n\nU.S. Rep. Castor is a member of the powerful U.S. House Energy & Commerce Committee and previously served on the U.S. House Armed Services Committee and as Chair of the former U.S. House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis. Her district includes MacDill Air Force Base and is home to U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), two of the Armed Forces\u2019 most important military commands. MacDill Air Force Base\u2019s 6th Air Refueling Wing is the centerpiece of the U.S. Air Force\u2019s Global Vigilance, Global Reach, Global Power mission with its essential functions of aerial refueling. The base\u2019s mission is vital to keeping America safe and ready for any contingencies we may face as a nation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404732", "House Passes Major Water Infrastructure Bill with Tampa Bay Priorities", "2024-12-10", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the House of Representatives passed a critical water infrastructure improvement bill that includes legislation introduced and championed by Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) to support resiliency projects, protect our environment, bolster our beaches and support the growing Tampa Bay economy. The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) is comprehensive legislation passed by Congress every two years to authorize Federal investments critical to our nation\u2019s economy, environment and public safety and health.\n\n\"Investments in our nation's water infrastructure and ecosystems are vital to supporting our communities and small businesses alike,\" said Rep. Castor. \"By mitigating flood risks at MacDill, restoring ecosystems and investing in resilience, this legislation promotes environmental sustainability and economic strength. I am committed to advancing these bipartisan solutions to protect our waterways and the people who depend on them.\"\n\n\u201cThe package also includes a significant investment for Port Tampa Bay aimed at expanding and improving navigable waterways, bolstering Tampa Bay\u2019s vibrant marine economy \u2013 one of only four navigation projects authorized in the country. Our growing region relies on the goods and service that a healthy shipping channel provides.\u201d\n\nThe Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act includes several provisions championed by Castor, including:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-cherfilus-mccormick-applauds-us-senate-passage-hearts-act", "Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Applauds U.S. Senate Passage of the HEARTS Act", "2024-12-10", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2500 Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) applauded the U.S. Senate\u2019s passage of the HEARTS Act, which includes her bill, the Access to AEDs Act.\n\nThe Access to AEDs Act, introduced by Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick in March 2023, would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to elementary and secondary schools partnered with nonprofit healthcare organizations to develop and implement a comprehensive program to promote defibrillation access. These grants can be used to purchase new CPR and AED equipment and provide training to students, staff, and volunteers.\n\n\u201cAs a mom and Member of Congress, I\u2019m on a mission to expand life-saving healthcare tools to children nationwide by equipping schools with AEDs and training for cardiac emergencies,\u201d said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. \u201cBy increasing access to these vital tools, we can protect our schoolchildren when disaster strikes. I am proud to help advance the HEARTS Act of 2024, which aims to prevent tragedies like those we witnessed with NFL player Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills. The HEARTS Act ensures families can feel confident about their children's safety at school. It includes my Access to AEDs Act, which increases survival rates from sudden cardiac arrests, allowing kids to return home safely after emergencies. I look forward to President Biden signing this critical piece of legislation into law,\u201d she concluded.\n\nSudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening emergency caused by a malfunction in the heart\u2019s electrical system or structure, caused by an abnormality from birth or one that develops over time. Annually, nearly 600,000 Americans suffer from SCA. More than 7,000 youth under the age of 18 suffer from SCA annually in the United States, with student-athletes being more than 3.5 times as likely to experience SCA as non-athletes. Survival from SCA more than doubles when a bystander uses a publicly available AED as compared to waiting for an AED shock after the arrival of emergency responders.\n\nThe legislation has been endorsed by the American Heart Association, the National Football League, Major League Baseball, the National Hockey League, the National Basketball Association, the Women\u2019s National Basketball Association, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Major League Soccer, the National Collegiate Athletic Association, Who We Play For, the American College of Cardiology, American Red Cross, Parent Heart Watch, Simon\u2019s Heart, Heart of the Game, Eric Paredes Save a Life Foundation, Youth Sports Safety Alliance/National Athletic Trainers\u2019 Association, the National Alliance for Youth Sports, the American Federation of School Administrators, the National Association of State EMS Officials, the National Association of EMS Physicians, the Heart Rhythm Society, Defibtech, In A Heartbeat, the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation, the John Taylor Babbitt Foundation, A Piece of My Heart Foundation, the National Association of School Nurses, and Every Second Counts, CPR.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-wilson-s-statement-on-the-water-resources-development-act-passing-the-house-of-representatives", "Rep. Wilson's Statement on the Water Resources Development Act Passing the House of Representatives", "2024-12-10", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson, senior member of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee in the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, released the following statement after the House of Representatives Passed the Water Resources Development Act.\n\n\"South Florida is on the frontlines of the climate crisis, especially in areas like Miami Beach and other coastal communities I represent,\" Congresswoman Frederica Wilson said. \"The Water Resources Development Act directly addresses urgent issues, including coastal storm risk management in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, water resource conservation, port and harbor modernization, and ecosystem restoration in unique areas of biodiversity like the Everglades. This legislation will help create economic opportunities and protect our water supply. With our climate crisis growing more urgent by the day, this legislation couldn't come at a more critical time. I am incredibly proud to have championed this legislation, ensuring that South Florida's needs were met.\"\n\nWhen Congresswoman Wilson was first elected to Congress, the WRDA did not require biennial renewal. As founder and Chair of the bipartisan Florida Ports Caucus, Congresswoman Wilson successfully pushed for the biennial renewal of WRDA to ensure it addresses the current needs of our communities.\n\nThe Water Resources Development Act includes funding and authorization for:\n\nComprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (Section number 1401).\n\nCoastal Storm Risk Management projects in Broward County (multiple segments, Section numbers 1145, 1337, 1336).\n\nCoastal Storm Risk Management projects in Miami-Dade County, including the Miami-Dade Back Bay project (Section numbers 1145, 1337, 1336).\n\nThe Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) is a biennial piece of legislation that authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to implement projects aimed at enhancing the nation's ports, harbors, inland waterways, flood protection systems, and other critical water infrastructure. These locally-driven projects not only benefit regional communities but also have a broader national impact, boosting global competitiveness, strengthening the supply chain, fostering economic growth, and safeguarding communities from flooding. The final WRDA version reflects months of negotiations to reconcile the House and Senate versions of the bill. This marks the sixth consecutive Congress since 2014 to address WRDA legislation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404725", "Reps. Castor, Joyce, Ross, Bacon Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help End Abuse and Sexual Violence in Sports", "2024-12-06", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Representatives Kathy Castor (FL-14), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Deborah Ross (NC-02), and Don Bacon (NE-02) hosted a virtual press conference to announce the introduction of their Safer Sports for Athletes Act. Alongside survivors and advocates, the lawmakers introduced their bipartisan legislation to strengthen the U.S. Center for SafeSport (SafeSport) and help end sexual, physical, and emotional abuse in sports.\n\nVIDEO: Click here to download a recording of the press conference\n\nCongress established SafeSport in 2017 to conduct investigations into cases of abuse in sports, control a centralized disciplinary database, and provide training designed to prevent abuse in sports to coaches, athletes, and sports organizations. SafeSport receives thousands of reports of abuse and misconduct per year, but it needs stronger guidelines and greater resources to fulfill the intent of Congress and better prevent and address sexual, physical, and emotional abuse of athletes.\n\n\"Every athlete at every level deserves to participate in sports in a safe, harm-free environment,\u201d said Rep. Kathy Castor. \u201cCongress created the U.S. Center for SafeSport to protect athletes and hold abusers accountable, but it\u2019s clear that gaps in transparency and accountability must be addressed to serve athletes better. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with my colleagues to restore trust, strengthen safeguards and ensure every athlete can thrive in a supportive environment.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s athletes at all ages go through extensive training and work overtime to achieve their athletic goals. Unfortunately, the prevalence of sexual abuse by some of their most trusted mentors and coaches is all too common,\u201d said Congressman Joyce. \u201cAfter extensive conversations with athletes who have used the effective SafeSport program since 2018, my colleagues and I put together the Safer Sports for Athletes Act to make necessary improvements. These revisions will ensure athlete survivors get the care they deserve and the criminals are apprehended.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor too long, athletes in different sports and across all levels of athletics have endured devastating abuse and have not felt served by the institutions charged with protecting them,\u201d said Congresswoman Ross. \u201cNo athlete \u2013 whether they play sports for fun or for a living \u2013 should be forced to experience the level of abuse, harassment, and violence that has become unacceptably common in sports today. The time for change is now, and I am proud to lead a bipartisan group of colleagues in introducing the Safer Sports for Athletes Act. This comprehensive legislation will help SafeSport live up to its promise of protecting athletes and preventing abuse and sexual violence in sports.\u201d\n\n\"Athletes who have been sexually abused should be taken seriously, and abusers must be swiftly brought to justice,\" said Rep. Bacon, co-chair of the Congressional Soccer Caucus. \u201cWhen I became Commander of Ramstein Air Force Base, I inherited a base with the highest sexual assault allegations in the U.S. Air Force and established a three-point program to address it. The program was later ranked by the Air Force as the number one sexual assault response program. I am honored to cosponsor the Safer Sports for Athletes Act of 2024, which will increase transparency in investigations and ensure more resources are invested in training individuals to address sexual abuse.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Army of Survivors is so appreciative of Congresswoman Deborah Ross, Congressman David Joyce, Congresswoman Kathy Castor, Congressman Don Bacon, and other Congressional champions for hearing the needs of survivors of abuse in sport and taking action\u201d, said Grace French, Founder and President of The Army of Survivors. \u201cAs a witness to survivors\u2019 testimony about the dangers and failures of SafeSport, we know that today survivors are being heard and that their courage to speak out is becoming part of the answer to ending all abuse in sport.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe lack of trauma-informed process by the Center was the biggest challenge in my case. I hope this legislation will force the changes we need at the Center so all survivors feel safe reporting,\u201d said Angie Lund, gymnastics sports survivor.\n\nCongresswoman Castor\u2019s Safer Sports for Athletes Act would strengthen SafeSport through key revisions that would improve the investigative process for athlete survivors, promote communication with national governing bodies, and revise training guidelines, all while providing SafeSport with enhanced funding. Specifically, the legislation would:\n\nImprove SafeSport\u2019s investigative process by:\n\nProviding fair notice and opportunity to be heard to complainants;\n\nProtecting complainant privacy and safety and allowing for complainants to have a confidential victim advocate present in any proceedings;\n\nSetting a timeline for SafeSport to conclude cases or notify parties of necessary extensions; and\n\nEstablishing preponderance of evidence as the burden of proof for SafeSport proceedings.\n\nEnsure the investigation process is trauma-informed by:\n\nReplacing SafeSport\u2019s arbitration process with an expert panel, which would consist of experts with training in trauma-informed care and an understanding of the sport dynamics relevant to the case; and\n\nAllowing SafeSport to pursue investigations and sanctions without testimony from victims of sexual misconduct in extraordinary circumstances.\n\nEnsure national governing bodies (NGBs) have information to keep predators out of sports by:\n\nEnhancing the information that SafeSport provides to NGBs about reports of abuse while ensuring confidentiality of survivors; and\n\nEnsuring that NGBs can prevent individuals accused of sexual misconduct from participating in a sport prior to the conclusion of a SafeSport investigation without that action being considered interference in such investigation.\n\nChange sports culture and prioritize prevention by:\n\nImproving training materials by requiring them to be regularly updated, developed with experts in sexual abuse prevention and athlete survivors, and be trauma-informed using best practices; and\n\nRequiring for the first time an investment in prevention by creating a floor of no less than 20% of SafeSport\u2019s funding to be used for prevention efforts and strategies in amateur athletics, including training, oversight practices, and policies to help create a lasting culture change.\n\nThe Safer Sports for Athletes Act has been endorsed by 47 organizations and individuals dedicated to preventing and addressing abuse in sports, along with the 54 Member State Associations of U.S. Youth Soccer. It has also been endorsed by U.S. Soccer and CHILDUSA.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-maxwell-frost-introduces-bill-to-prevent-radioactive-materials-from-being-used-to-build-roads_the-no-radioactive-roads-act", "Congressman Maxwell Frost Introduces Bill to Prevent Radioactive Materials from Being Used to Build Roads \u2013 the \u201cNo Radioactive Roads Act\u201d", "2024-12-06", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Maxwell Frost", "F000476", "frost.house.gov", "frost", "https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Frost Bill Would Prevent Cancer-Causing Fertilizer Byproduct from Being Used in Road Construction, Has Support from Local Leaders\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL) and Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) introduced the No Radioactive Roads Act legislation to make sure the Trump Administration cannot once again allow for deadly, cancer-causing radioactive material, phosphogypsum (PG), to be used in road construction. Florida is the world's largest PG producing area with 1 billion tons of PG stored in stacks, mainly in the Central Florida region.\n\nIn 2021, a tear at a PG stack facility allowed for millions of gallons of untreated wastewater to be released into Tampa Bay, devastating the clean waters of the bay and causing a red tide outbreak, killing millions of fish. In 2023, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill into law to allow the cancer-causing material to be used in road construction.\n\nFrost\u2019s bill has the support of a half-dozen Central Florida leaders including State Senator Geraldine F. Thompson, State Senator Carlos Guillermo Smith, State Representative Anna V. Eskamani, State Representative Rita Harris, State Representative Johanna L\u00f3pez, Orange County Commissioner Kelly Semrad.\n\n\u201cLeaders like Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis care more about making sure that their corporate donors are happy than they do about making sure your communities aren\u2019t built with cancer-causing materials. It\u2019s disgusting,\u201d said Congressman Maxwell Frost. \u201cPG can and has seeped into our water, into our soil, and into our air \u2013 endangering our people, our environment, and our businesses. We need to take action to make sure that no future administration can allow this radioactive and cancer-causing substance to be used to build our roads without adhering to very high safety standards.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe health and safety of our communities must always come first. Allowing radioactive materials like phosphogypsum to be used in road construction is a direct threat to our families, our environment, and our future. The No Radioactive Roads Act is a critical step to ensure that no community is subjected to the long-term dangers of toxic exposure. I am proud to join Congressman Frost in championing this legislation which prioritizes the well-being of every Floridian,\u201d said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.\n\nThe No Radioactive Roads Act has been endorsed by the League of Conservation Voters, Center for Biological Diversity, Food & Water Watch, Surfrider Foundation, and the Save Split Oak Campaign.\n\n\u201cRepresentative Frost is putting public health first by introducing important legislation to set stricter limits on the use of toxic phosphogypsum (PG) in roads after the previous Trump administration greenlit its use following a 30+ year EPA ban. PG is a radioactive, cancer-causing substance that is being misguidedly considered for use in road construction that can harm workers, drivers and nearby communities. Representative Frost\u2019s legislation would provide transparency and better protect our health by requiring regular and publicly available monitoring data for air and water quality, specific approvals of each use of PG in roads, and limiting the acceptable lifetime cancer risk from exposure to PG. We greatly appreciate Rep. Frost\u2019s commitment to safeguarding clean air, clean water, and environmental justice and look forward to continuing to work together to protect the health of our families and communities,\u201d said the League of Conservation Voters\u2019 Healthy Communities Program Director, Madeleine Foote.\n\n\u201cCommon sense and decades of EPA warnings make it clear that using radioactive phosphogypsum in our roads is a dangerously bad idea,\u201d said J.W. Glass, EPA policy specialist at the Center for Biological Diversity. \u201cRep. Frost\u2019s bill will make sure that toxic fertilizer waste can\u2019t be approved for new uses without first ensuring it\u2019s managed to protect our water, workers and wildlife from radiation and other pollutants. I hope this spurs the EPA to ditch the industry\u2019s risky proposal to dump its waste in our roads and focus instead on creating standards that better protect our communities and environment from this harmful pollution.\u201d\n\n\u201cClean water and healthy watersheds are vital to our thriving coastal communities, environments, and economies. Using radioactive waste in roads poses an unacceptable threat to public and environmental health that would extend for generations. The 'No Radioactive Roads Act' establishes important safeguards for protecting human health, requiring water quality monitoring, and ensuring transparency,\u201d said Katie Bauman, Florida Policy Manager, Surfrider Foundation.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the Save Split Oak Forest campaign, we strongly support Congressman Frost\u2019s No Radioactive Roads Act. This legislation is crucial for safeguarding Florida's ecosystems from the dangers of radioactive road runoff, which can harm our waterways, soil, and wildlife. Protecting conservation lands like Split Oak Forest is essential for preserving biodiversity and ensuring smart, sustainable growth. We urge all members of Congress to back this act to prevent harmful pollution and promote a future where Florida\u2019s natural environment and communities can thrive together,\u201d said Lee Perry, Lead Volunteer of the Save Split Oak Campaign.\n\n\u201cWe sincerely thank Representative Frost for championing the No Radioactive Roads Act, which takes decisive action to safeguard our communities from the significant risks posed by phosphogypsum. Florida has experienced firsthand the devastating consequences of mismanaging this hazardous material, including the Piney Point disaster, where over 200 million gallons of contaminated wastewater spilled into Tampa Bay. Using phosphogypsum in road construction would endanger workers, drivers, drinking water supplies, and fragile ecosystems, not just in Florida but across the country. This legislation is a crucial step toward protecting public health and preserving the safety of our water resources. We are committed to working with Congress and communities to ensure this vital bill becomes law and helps prevent future disasters,\u201d said Jim Walsh, Policy Director, Food & Water Watch.\n\nAdditional Background:\n\nFor over 30 years, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has prohibited the use of phosphogypsum (PG) for road construction because this fertilizer waste product emits deadly, cancer-causing radon gas and contains toxic heavy metals like arsenic, lead, mercury, and sulfur.\n\nThese toxins can become airborne or seep into the soil and groundwater. One of these elements, radium-226, has a 1,600-year half-life and will poison generations of people working on, living near, or traveling over any future radioactive roads.\n\nScientific research makes clear that phosphogypsum (PG) is not safe to use as a road building material, but just months before leaving office, the Trump Administration green-lit PG to be used in road construction.\n\nThe Biden-Harris Administration quickly reversed the Trump Administration\u2019s decision to allow PG in road construction but this means that PG\u2019s threat to people\u2019s health and safety can reemerge with newly elected President Trump.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3278", "Wasserman Schultz, Frankel Statement on Amnesty International Report", "2024-12-06", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) and Lois Frankel (FL-22) released the following statement on Amnesty International\u2019s recent report on Israel:\n\n\u201cAmnesty International\u2019s report relies on fraudulently attributing genocidal intent to Israeli officials and the Israeli people at large. The argument rests entirely on a politically driven revisionist definition of what constitutes a genocide, breaking with internationally accepted standards to reach Amnesty's desired conclusion.\n\nThe authors argue that the threshold of evidence for accusing states of genocide is \u201ctoo high\u201d and in doing so, acknowledge that their findings in Gaza do not meet the elements of the crime.\n\nWhen a prosecutor concludes that they lack the evidence to meet a legal standard, they should modify the accusation rather than mangling the statute to accommodate a predetermined assumption of guilt. This is especially crucial when it comes to the most horrific accusation that can be leveled against a nation.\n\nInstead, Amnesty\u2019s slanderous report conflates conduct with intent, confuses outcomes with objectives, and contrives a novel legal framework that cites Israel\u2019s very existence as evidence of its malign intent.\n\nThis misguided report will not help end the war or resolve the conflict. It will not help free the hostages or bring peace to civilians endangered by Hamas. It will, however, cheapen the meaning of genocide. And tragically, it will likely discredit legitimate concern for the humanitarian crisis brought on by Hamas\u2019 truly genocidal ambitions, routine abuse of civilians and hostages as human shields and willful disregard for the lives of Palestinians.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404724", "U.S. Rep. Castor Statement on DeSantis Rejecting KidCare Expansion \u2013 A Real Scrooge Move", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement on Governor Ron DeSantis\u2019 latest move to deprive thousands of Florida children of the health care coverage they need by rejecting the Florida Legislature-approved expansion of KidCare as approved by federal officials:\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s cruel and short-sighted for Governor DeSantis to deprive Florida children of the doctor visits and health services they need to stay healthy as intended by a bipartisan initiative of the Florida Legislature.\n\n\u201cEarlier this week, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) approved the State\u2019s plan to expand eligibility for the children\u2019s health care program (\u201cCHIP\u201d or \u201cKidCare\u201d). More working families in Florida are now just one step away from being able to access affordable health coverage for their children, as a unanimous Florida Legislature intended. All that stands between allowing 165,000 more Florida kids access to high-quality health coverage is a signature from Governor DeSantis.\n\n\u201cThe plan to expand KidCare to children up to 300% of the federal poverty threshold was passed unanimously by state lawmakers in early 2023. Despite the bipartisan support in the state, Governor DeSantis failed to implement the expansion and instead dragged his feet by throwing up roadblocks and wasteful lawsuits for almost a year and a half. It is now solely in his hands to allow this important expansion to go forward, but once again, he is acting like Ebenezer Scrooge.\n\n\u201cI urge Governor DeSantis to do the right thing for Florida families, be fiscally responsible, and follow the law so that Florida kids can access the health care they need and deserve.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3277", "Wasserman Schultz, Franklin Lead Bipartisan Effort to Modernize NOAA Hurricane Hunter Fleet", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "\u201cWith increasingly severe hurricane seasons, communities across the nation are relying more than ever on NOAA\u2019s life-saving storm tracking and forecasting capabilities,\u201d said Wasserman Schultz. \u201cBy investing in new hurricane hunter aircraft now, we ensure that NOAA can continue to protect lives, property, and entire communities from the growing threats of extreme weather.\u201d\n\nWashington DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) and Scott Franklin (FL-18) led 10 of their Florida colleagues in a bipartisan letter urging Congress to include funds to modernize the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\u2019s (NOAA) hurricane hunter aircraft fleet in any upcoming emergency disaster relief supplemental package.\n\n\u201cWith increasingly severe hurricane seasons, communities across the nation are relying more than ever on NOAA\u2019s life-saving storm tracking and forecasting capabilities,\u201d said Wasserman Schultz. \u201cBy investing in new hurricane hunter aircraft now, we ensure that NOAA can continue to protect lives, property, and entire communities from the growing threats of extreme weather.\u201d\n\n\u201cNOAA\u2019s hurricane hunter fleet is imperative to delivering real-time data to improve the accuracy of forecasts and inform emergency management efforts,\u201d said Franklin. \u201cDuring Hurricane Milton, I joined the crew of NOAA 42 and saw firsthand the importance of this live-saving weather tracking technology. Congress must fund the modernization of NOAA\u2019s aging planes to help protect our communities.\u201d\n\nThe funding, as requested in the Administration\u2019s recent supplemental request, would enable NOAA\u2019s Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO) to complete construction of two new hurricane hunter planes already in progress and acquire a third. This modernization effort is vital to maintaining the nation\u2019s hurricane and extreme weather forecasting capabilities.\n\nNOAA\u2019s current WP-3D Orion hurricane hunter planes, which have served for decades, are set to retire by 2030. Without timely replacements, NOAA\u2019s ability to collect real-time data and improve forecasting during hurricanes, floods, and other extreme weather events will be at serious risk.\n\nThe lawmakers emphasized that the modernization effort is essential not only for hurricane readiness but also for improving forecasts for water resource planning, and for predicting fire weather, and drought conditions. Recent hurricanes, including Helene and Milton, underscore the necessity of bolstering NOAA\u2019s capabilities to address escalating weather threats.\n\nRead the entire letter here.\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3274", "Senate Sends President Bill to Study Transfer of Weitzman Museum of American Jewish History Transfer to the Smithsonian", "2024-12-04", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Mike Turner (OH-10), Brendan Boyle (PA-2), and Max Miller (OH-7) announced that their bill, the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act (H.R. 7764), passed the Senate last night and now heads to the President\u2019s desk. This commission is a critical step in transferring the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, a highly regarded museum dedicated to the history, culture, and contributions of Jewish Americans, to the Smithsonian Institution. If transferred, the Weitzman would serve as the Smithsonian\u2019s only museum specifically dedicated to the stories of Jewish Americans.\n\nThe bill passed the House in September, and with its unanimous Senate approval, now goes to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law. Sen. Bob Casey (PA) led the companion bill in the Senate.\n\n\u201cEducating all Americans, from all over the country, about the amazing contributions Jewish Americans made to our nation, not only raises awareness but helps dispel harmful prejudices about our community,\u201d said Wasserman Schultz. \u201cWelcoming the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History into the larger Smithsonian family would bring that vision closer to reality. Education about the Jewish American community is a critical tool in the fight against hate, and there is no better place for that learning than the Weitzman. I am proud to champion this legislation and am thrilled to see it reach the President\u2019s desk.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith antisemitism on the rise, the Weitzman Museum is playing a vital role in educating the next generation about the contributions Jewish Americans have made to our Nation and stemming the tide of hate,\u201d said Casey. \u201cIntegrating the Weitzman with the Smithsonian will cement the museum\u2019s place as one of America\u2019s essential institutions.\u201d\n\n\u201cThere is broad bipartisan, bicameral support in preserving and promoting the contributions of Jewish Americans via The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History,\u201d said Turner. \u201cWith passage of this legislation and the President\u2019s expected signature, we move one step closer to bringing the museum and its collections to the Smithsonian to be shared with a global audience.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis critical bill marks an important step toward the Weitzman Museum becoming part of the world-renowned Smithsonian Institution. As the only museum in the nation dedicated exclusively to exploring and interpreting the American Jewish experience, the Weitzman plays a vital role in preserving and sharing a key chapter of our nation\u2019s history,\u201d said Boyle. \u201cIntegrating the museum into the Smithsonian family would not only expand its reach and resources but also ensure its continued ability to educate and inspire future generations about the rich culture and contributions of American Jews.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is a treasure that highlights the remarkable contributions of Jewish Americans to our nation\u2019s history and culture,\u201d said Miller. \u201cBringing the Weitzman to the Smithsonian will ensure these stories are preserved and shared on an even larger stage. At a time when antisemitism and hate are on the rise, expanding education about Jewish American history is more important than ever. I am honored to be part of this bipartisan effort, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.\u201d\n\nThe Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act would create a commission to study the potential transfer of the Weitzman Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, which is the necessary first step to put the Weitzman Museum on a path toward acquisition by the Smithsonian. Specifically:\n\n\u00b7 The commission will consist of eight members, with two members appointed by the majority and minority leaders of each chamber.\n\n\u00b7 The commission will write a report to Congress with a recommendation on whether the Weitzman Museum should be transferred to the Smithsonian Institution.\n\n\u00b7 The report will also detail the current collections of the Museum; the impact of the Museum on educational and governmental efforts to study and counter antisemitism; the financial assets and liabilities of the Museum and costs of operating and maintaining the Museum; the governance and organizational structure of the Museum should it be transferred; and the impact such a transfer would have on the Smithsonian Institution.\n\n\u00b7 The commission will not receive any federal funding and will accept private contributions to pay for its expenses.\n\nRead the entire bill here.\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-cherfilus-mccormick-kelly-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-tackle-obesity", "Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick, Kelly Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to   Tackle the Obesity Epidemic", "2024-12-03", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2500 Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) and Congressman Mike Kelly (PA-16) introduced bipartisan legislation to address the obesity crisis and lower out-of-pocket drug costs for vulnerable Americans. The Dual Eligible Americans Living (DEAL) with Obesity Act would provide coverage of weight loss drugs under Medicare Part D for dually eligible Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries living with obesity.\n\n\u201cFor too long, Americans living with obesity were unable to access the life-changing medications they needed because of antiquated and discriminatory policies in the Medicare Part D program that considered obesity to be a purely cosmetic problem,\u201d said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. \u201cIt is long overdue that Medicare recognizes obesity as a chronic disease so patients can benefit from new medical innovation in the obesity space.\u201d\n\n\u201cDually eligible beneficiaries, some of the most vulnerable members of our communities, should be given every opportunity to improve their health and wellbeing. The DEAL with Obesity Act will lead to better patient outcomes, reduce preventable chronic conditions, and ultimately save our health care system billions of dollars spent on obesity care every year,\u201d Congressman Mike Kelly said. \u201cI am proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation alongside Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick and look forward to working with my colleagues to help our fellow Americans.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe applaud Representative Cherfilus-McCormick and Representative Kelly\u2019s continued commitment to tackling the obesity crisis. The DEAL with Obesity Act will greatly expand access to innovative, life-altering weight loss drugs that have unfortunately remained out of reach for so many dual eligibles, 20% of whom are Hispanic,\u201d said Dr. Elena Rios, President of the National Hispanic Health Foundation.\n\n\u201cHealthyWomen supports the DEAL with Obesity Act, a crucial piece of legislation aimed at improving access to innovative treatments for obesity. The Act will make GLP-1 agonists and other medications designed for obesity treatment more affordable for dual-eligible beneficiaries,\u201d said Elizabeth Battaglino, CEO of HealthyWomen. \u201cBy eliminating the arbitrary prohibition of coverage for weight loss drugs under Medicare Part D, this legislation ensures that overweight individuals in this population can access the medications they need without financial barriers. HealthyWomen stands behind this effort to promote equitable healthcare access and better support those living with obesity.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) is proud to support the Dual Eligible Americans Living (DEAL) with Obesity Act, which marks an important step in addressing the obesity epidemic, which disproportionately impacts Latinos and other vulnerable populations, including dually eligible Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries,\u201d said Indira Islas, Government Affairs Manager of the National Hispanic Medical Association. \u201cBy expanding Medicare Part D coverage to include weight loss medications, this legislation would provide equitable access to effective treatments for obesity linked to higher risks of diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. NHMA applauds Representatives Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick and Mike Kelly for their leadership on this issue and urges passage of this bill to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities for millions of Americans.\u201d\n\n\u201cAACE understands the impact of obesity in this vulnerable population and supports improved access to proven effective treatments,\u201d said Dr. Susan Samson, President of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology.\n\nThe DEAL with Obesity Act is endorsed by the American Diabetes Association, National Kidney Foundation, National Hispanic Health Foundation, National Hispanic Medical Foundation, Obesity Care Advocacy Network, HealthyWomen, Society for Women's Health Research, American Society on Aging, and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3273", "Wasserman Schultz, Issa Bill to Prohibit Stolen Cuban Trademarks Signed Into Law", "2024-12-03", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) and Darrell Issa (CA-48) announced that their bill, H.R. 1505, the No Stolen Trademarks Honored in America Act, was signed into law by President Joe Biden Monday evening.\n\nThis new law prohibits U.S. recognition of illegally confiscated trademarks and provides a bulwark against attempts by the Cuban regime to profit from hijacked intellectual property. The No Stolen Trademarks Honored in America Act does so by further restricting U.S. courts and executive branch agencies from enforcing or validating confiscated trademarks if they have been used in connection with an expropriated business or asset.\n\n\u201cOur most fundamental responsibility is protecting Americans from being victimized by our adversaries. This means standing up to foreign malign actors who take advantage of loopholes in our laws to profit from stolen trademarks.\u201d said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. \u201cI\u2019ve heard Cuban American constituents recount how their families were stripped of hard-earned wealth, expropriated by autocratic regimes. I\u2019m grateful to President Biden for signing our bill into law and demonstrating the United States\u2019 continuing commitment to combating intellectual property theft.\u201d\n\nThis bill righted a historic injustice by ensuring that American trademarks stolen by the Cuban regime will no longer be recognized on U.S. soil. This is more than just a law on the books: It is a declaration that the bond between the American people and their intellectual property is sacred, and its confiscation without consent is no less of a theft than the robbing of a bank. My thanks to Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz, as well as Senators Rubio and Cortez Masto, for their leadership and dedication to this very just cause,\u201d said Rep. Issa.\n\nThe previous prohibition was limited to U.S. courts and applied only if the confiscated trademark is being asserted in the United States by a Cuban national. Under H.R. 1505, the prohibition shall not apply if the original trademark owner, or a successor, has expressly consented to the enforcement action. This new law will prohibit any executive agency, including the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, from recognizing, enforcing, or validating any trademark that was used in connection with a business or assets that were confiscated without the consent of the original owner or successor-in-interest. This bill would prevent anyone from using U.S. agencies to benefit from intellectual property stolen from its rightful owner.\n\nRead the entire bill here.\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404723", "Castor Announces 2024 Nominations to Prestigious U.S. Military Academies", "2024-12-02", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "TAMPA, Fla. \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) announced 26 Tampa Bay area students who received nominations for admission into America\u2019s prestigious military academies: Air Force Academy (USAFA), Naval Academy (USNA), West Point (USMA) and the Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA). The outstanding student leaders hail from more than ten local high schools in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.\n\n\u201cThese talented student leaders are vital to the future of America. Their interest in serving our country brings great pride to our patriotic Tampa Bay community,\u201d said Castor. \u201cI\u2019m grateful for the service of my Nomination Committee, which thoroughly reviews every application and interviews interested students. I am confident that this year's nominees will represent the Tampa Bay Area and our nation well in their future endeavors.\u201d\n\nPhotos of the nominees can be found here.\n\nReceiving a nomination to one of our nation\u2019s military academies is an essential step towards receiving an appointment to the academies. Nominations are earned based on each student\u2019s interview with Castor\u2019s Nomination Committee, their academic record, participation in extracurricular activities and demonstrated leadership qualities. Because of the stringent application requirements, many students begin working on what it takes to apply as early as their first year of high school.\n\nUnder federal law, all U.S. military academies, except the Coast Guard Academy, require either a service-connected nomination or a congressional nomination (from a member of Congress in either the U.S. House or Senate or the Vice President of the United States). Parents and students interested in the nomination process can work with their school guidance counselors and find more information at Service Academy Nominations | U.S. Representative Kathy Castor (house.gov).\n\nCastor will announce official appointments at a later date after being notified of appointments by the academies. Today\u2019s announcement is the conclusion of Castor\u2019s 2024 competitive nomination process. The nominees who receive an appointment from a U.S. military academy will attend their respective academies in the 2025-2026 school year.\n\nU.S. Rep. Castor granted her nomination to the following students for one or more of the U.S. military academies:\n\nQuenten A. Erikson, T.R. Robinson High School \u2013 USAFA and USMA\n\nDanielle K. Donis, Air Force Academy Preparatory School \u2013 USAFA (not pictured)\n\nRoman M. Lermer, Jesuit High School \u2013 USAFA (not pictured)\n\nDesmond A. Nunez, H.B. Plant High School \u2013 USNA and USAFA\n\nJames F. Riley, Lake Braddock Secondary School \u2013 USNA and USAFA (not pictured)\n\nJessica R. Grasso, St. Petersburg High School \u2013 USAFA and USMA (not pictured)\n\nNoelle E. Sizemore, T.R. Robinson High School \u2013 USNA and USAFA\n\nJocelyn K. Sheppard, Shorecrest Preparatory School \u2013 USMA\n\nWilliam L. Cadden, H.B. Plant High School \u2013 USAFA and USMA\n\nHannah Hankerson, Berkeley Preparatory School \u2013 USMA\n\nXavier Terrell, Lakewood High School \u2013 USMA\n\nBerlin E. Stanton, Canterbury School of Florida \u2013 USMA\n\nJada L. James, Academy of the Holy Names \u2013 USNA and USMA\n\nTrace Benn, Jesuit High School \u2013 USMA\n\nRico Gordon-Dones, H.B. Plant High School \u2013 USNA and USAFA\n\nCarmen Rivera, H.B. Plant High School \u2013 USNA and USAFA\n\nCyrus Lovell, H.B. Plant High School \u2013 USNA\n\nIsabella Valerio, Admiral Farragut Academy \u2013 USNA and USMA\n\nWilliam D. Baker, H.B. Plant High School \u2013 USNA and USAFA\n\nElijah Chames R., Berkeley Preparatory School \u2013 USNA\n\nJoseph Delucia Jr., - Jesuit High School \u2013 USMA\n\nCarter W. Ford, Shorecrest Preparatory School \u2013 USMMA\n\nAva M. Booker, T. R. Robinson High School \u2013 USNA and USMMA\n\nJohn K. McGivern, Tampa Preparatory School \u2013 USNA and USMMA\n\nDioz R. Cruz, Matanzas High School \u2013 USMMA\n\nNoah S. Deane, Jefferson High School \u2013 USMMA", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-cherfilus-mccormick-highlights-record-drop-veteran-homelessness", "Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Highlights Record Drop in Veteran Homelessness Achieved Under Biden-Harris Administration", "2024-11-11", "2024", "2024-11", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Tamarac, FL \u2014 Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick praised the Biden-Harris Administration for achieving a historic milestone: the lowest rate of veteran homelessness ever recorded. As a Veteran\u2019s Affair Committee member, Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick highlighted the Administration's efforts and local programs that contributed to this life-changing outcome for countless veterans nationwide and in Florida.\n\n\"Our veterans deserve our utmost respect for their bravery and sacrifices, and that includes ensuring they have a safe place to call home,\" said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. \u201cToday, the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness announced a record low in veteran homelessness on Veterans Day. This momentous achievement reflects the commitment of the Biden-Harris administration and congressional Democrats to support the men and women who served our country. Still, much more work must be done \u2013 one homeless veteran is one too many.\"\n\nThrough federal initiatives like the HUD-VASH program, support for rapid rehousing, and expanded access to healthcare and employment resources, the Biden-Harris Administration has demonstrated a renewed focus on uplifting veterans and breaking down the barriers to safe, stable housing. This record low in homelessness results from dedicated policy action and comprehensive on-the-ground support from countless local organizations, shelters, and veteran advocates.\n\nIn Florida, where veteran homelessness has been a persistent challenge, Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick has worked alongside local agencies and the Department of Veterans Affairs to champion increased funding and resources for housing programs and support services. \u201cOur veterans shouldn\u2019t face homelessness after risking so much in service to our country,\u201d she said. \u201cToday\u2019s achievement brings us closer to a future where every veteran has the support they need to thrive.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick remains committed to delivering for our veterans by driving forward additional policies to reduce further veteran homelessness, including affordable housing, quality healthcare, and employment opportunities tailored for veterans.\n\n***Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s Veterans Legislation during this 118th Congress***\n\nPASSED - Healthy Foundations for Homeless Veterans Act (H.R. 645) with Ranking Member of the VA Committee Mark Takano (D-CA)\n\nThis bill permanently authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to use specified funding to provide assistance to homeless veterans and veterans participating in the Department of Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program. Additionally, the VA may collaborate with one or more organizations to manage the use of VA land for homeless veterans for living and sleeping.\n\nThis bill was incorporated into the Housing our Military Veterans Effectively Act (H.R. 3848), which passed the House of Representatives on December 5, 2023.\n\nINTRODUCED - Department of Veterans Affairs Therapeutic Medical Physicist Pay Cap Relief Act (H.R. 6800) with Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA)\n\nThe Department of Veterans Affairs Therapeutic Medical Physicist Pay Cap Relief Act would eliminate the pay cap for therapeutic medical physicists (TMPs), delivering higher quality care to veterans, improving TMP recruitment and retention, and lowering total costs for the VA. Over the past 15 years, TMP salaries have increased nationwide as radiation therapy has become more sophisticated and more common. However, VA TMPs earn approximately $40,000 less than their private sector counterparts \u2015 forcing the VA to overspend on contracted TMP services, which could be done more reliably in-house and at a much lower cost.\n\nINTRODUCED - Historically Underserved Veterans Inclusion Act (H.R. 4325)\n\nThe Historically Underserved Veterans Inclusion Act would extend the reach of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Center for Minority Veterans (CMV) and the Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans (ACMV) to ensure all veterans receive equitable service from the VA regardless of race, origin, religion, or gender.\n\nThe scope of CMV and ACMV would be extended to include minority and historically underserved veterans including those:\n\nof Middle Eastern or North African descent\n\nwho identify as belonging to more than one race or ethnicity\n\nwho are LGBTQ+\n\nwho belong to a religious minority\n\nwho have language barriers\n\nlack U.S. citizenship status.\n\nINTRODUCED - Coordinating Care for Senior Veterans and Wounded Warriors Act (H.R. 9399) with Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ)\n\nThis bill creates a three-year pilot program to better coordinate, navigate, and manage healthcare benefits for veterans enrolled in both systems by assigning a case manager to develop individualized healthcare plans that best suit the needs of that veteran as well as ensure the proper delivery of those services.\n\nINTRODUCED - Scheduling for Community Health and Easy Data to Understand for Legislators to Evaluate Services (SCHEDULES) Act (H.R. 7136)with Rep. Scott Franklin (R-FL)\n\nThis bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a standard for timing between the date on which a referral for VA care is entered into the VA's system and the date on which an appointment for care occurs, whether at a VA facility or through care in the community.\n\nThe VA must publish the standard in the Federal Register and on a publicly accessible VA website. Additionally, the VA must submit a report at least quarterly on the number and percentage of referrals that meet the new timing standard.\n\nCO-LED - Counting Veterans\u2019 Cancer Act of 2024 (H.R. 7091) with Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA)\n\nThis legislation requires the Veterans\u2019 Health Administration to share national cancer data with state cancer registries. Additionally, the bill requires the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to assist registries in sharing veteran cancer data with the VA, ensuring maximum cooperation between federal and state agencies.\n\nCongresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick serves on the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs as the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Technology Modernization and as a Member of the Subcommittee on Health.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404708", "On First Day of Open Enrollment, Reps. Castor & Ross Introduce Legislation to Protect Families from Rogue Health Insurance Brokers", "2024-11-01", "2024", "2024-11", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "TAMPA, FL \u2013 Today, Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14) and Deborah Ross (NC-02) introduced the bicameral Insurance Fraud Accountability Act, legislation aimed at establishing criminal penalties and enhancing consumer protections against rogue health insurance brokers who are changing Americans\u2019 Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans and disenrolling them from Medicaid without their knowledge or consent. This bill addresses alarming tactics that jeopardize the financial and health security of American families.\n\nIn June, Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Patty Murray (D-WA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) introduced the Insurance Fraud Accountability Act in the Senate.\n\n\"The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has been a godsend to families in Florida and across America. The ACA has lowered the cost of high-quality health care and banned discrimination for preexisting conditions. Unfortunately, a few bad actors are exploiting people and signing them up for health insurance plans without their consent,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \"On the first day of Open Enrollment, I\u2019m proud to introduce the Insurance Fraud Accountability Act with Rep. Ross to bring greater transparency and accountability to the health insurance marketplace by cracking down on predatory health insurance sales, ensuring consumers are notified of plan changes, establishing stronger penalties for fraudulent enrollments and requiring brokers to act in the best interest of the customer. Together, these measures will protect hardworking Americans from predatory practices and keep money in their wallets where it rightfully belongs.\u201d\n\n\u201cNorth Carolina families deserve to feel secure in their health care choices, but for far too long, rogue brokers have exploited their trust,\u201d said Rep. Ross. \u201cThis bill is a necessary reform to protect our communities from deceptive practices that leave families with unexpected medical bills and significant financial strain. By holding these bad actors responsible, we are taking concrete steps to protect consumers and their access to reliable health care.\u201d\n\nThis legislation will impose criminal penalties for agents and brokers who engage in fraudulent practices, including enrolling individuals in plans without their consent and using deceptive marketing to target vulnerable groups. To further protect consumers, the legislation will create a consent verification process, ensuring that individuals will be kept informed of any new enrollments or changes to their insurance coverage. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen accountability and transparency in the health insurance industry.\n\nThe bill is endorsed by AHIP, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American Kidney Fund, American Lung Association, Arthritis Foundation, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, Cambia Health Solutions (Regence BCBS), CancerCare, Centene Corporation (Ambetter), Child Neurology Foundation, Chronic Disease Coalition, Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, eHealth, Epilepsy Foundation, Families USA, Hemophilia Fed of America, Immune Deficiency Foundation, Lupus Foundation of America, Muscular Dystrophy Association, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), National Health Council, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, National Patient Advocate Foundation, QuoteVelocity, Susan G. Komen, The AIDS Institute, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, The Mended Hearts, Inc., UnidosUS, and WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404707", "U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Announces $1.8 Million for Port Tampa Bay for Climate and Air Quality Improvements", "2024-10-29", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "TAMPA, FL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) announced Port Tampa Bay will receive $1.8 million in grant funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s Clean Ports Program to develop a climate pollution reduction strategy for port infrastructure.\n\nPort Tampa Bay will use the funds to develop a baseline air pollution inventory and engage with port and community stakeholders on long-term planning for cleaner operations. The grant will allow Port Tampa Bay to study the feasibility of renewable energy technology, including electric, battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and green fuel technologies. The study will include goals/objectives, tracking, reporting, technology deployment, infrastructure upgrades, renewable energy procurement, stakeholder engagement, and funding strategies.\n\n\u201cClimate pollution is responsible for rising temperatures and extreme weather events like rapidly intensifying and powerful hurricanes, so it is critical that we develop solutions that reduce pollution and the costly impacts of the heating climate,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cI am enthused to support Port Tampa Bay\u2019s efforts Clean Ports Climate and Air Quality Planning - made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act. The planning grant will support the installation of modern electric infrastructure and the replacement of outdated equipment to enhance efficiency and aid the transition to a zero-emission future. Through this initiative, the Port will further its environmental stewardship by improving and safeguarding air quality throughout Tampa Bay.\u201d\n\nCastor has championed infrastructure and resiliency investments in Tampa Bay neighborhoods and economic engines under the landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and Inflation Reduction Act, which was passed by the Democratic-led Congress and signed by President Biden. This grant follows a $22 million grant for Port Tampa Bay to improve supply chains and a $40 million grant for Tampa International Airport to construct a new terminal announced in October. The total project cost is $2 million, with the Environmental Protection Agency providing $1.8 million and Port Tampa Bay securing $200,000 in local funding.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/biden-harris-administration-alongside-congresswoman-wilson-announce-389-million-towards-miami-dade-county-s-northeast-corridor-rapid-transit-project", "Biden-Harris Administration, alongside Congresswoman Wilson, Announce $389 million towards Miami-Dade County's Northeast Corridor Rapid Transit Project", "2024-10-28", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "The Federal Transit Administration, alongside Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24), announced that it is advancing the Miami-Dade County Northeast Corridor Rapid Transit Project into the Engineering phase of the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program.\n\nThis means the Federal Transit Administration will invest $389,474,434 in Miami-Dade County. The total project plan is $927.3 million, and under this plan, the Federal Transit Administration will provide $389.4 million, Miami Dade County will provide 337.9 million, and the State of Florida will commit $200 million.\n\nCongresswoman Wilson, a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said, \"The Federal Transit Administration's announcement is a game-changer for Miami-Dade County and brings our community much closer to seeing the Northeast Corridor become a reality. Traffic and transit options have been issues across Miami-Dade County for as long as I can remember, especially in areas like Wynwood, Aventura, Little Haiti, and North Miami. I'm proud to have worked with our county officials and federal partners at the Federal Transit Administration to help secure these funds for Miami-Dade County. Constructing the Northeast Corridor will help reduce traffic, provide more transportation options, create jobs, contribute to our efforts to combat the climate crisis, and allow Miami-Dade County to become the modern, transit-connected community it deserves to be. While more work lies ahead, today marks a large milestone in our efforts to construct the Northeast Corridor.\"\n\nCongresswoman Wilson represents the areas where the Northeast Corridor would be constructed, including North Miami, Aventura, and Little Haiti. She has been a consistent advocate for the Northeast Corridor and has previously requested $454 million in funds from the federal government for the Northeast Corridor Rapid Transit Project. She was also one of five cosponsors of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, which helped allow this funding for the Northeast Corridor.\n\n\"We are grateful to the Biden-Harris administration and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg for continuing to support this critical project and our SMART Program to offer more affordable transportation options to our community,\" said Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. \"The Northeast Corridor and its local commuter rail service will help reduce traffic and give many residents, especially in underserved areas, more options to access jobs, education and opportunities. This service will be a gamechanger for those who need it most as we continue building the future of transit in Miami-Dade.\"\n\nNext, the project will need a second rating from the Federal Transit Administration, considering factors such as mobility improvements, land use, and environmental benefits. Miami-Dade Transportation and Public Works already scored well enough on the first review to move into the Engineering phase and grant preliminary approval for a Capital Investment Grant. If they receive a strong score again and complete all engineering work, they'll be able to secure a Full Funding Grant Agreement (FFGA) with the Federal Transit Administration. This agreement would commit the Federal Transit Administration to provide $389.3 million for the project, pending the availability of funding through annual appropriations, as this transit program relies on the General Fund instead of guaranteed Highway Trust Fund dollars.\n\nNo congressional approval is needed on a project-specific level, but Congress will have to approve funds for all Capital Investment Grants projects as part of the annual Congressional appropriations process to ensure the funds for this project.\n\n\"The Federal Transit Administration's $389 million investment in Miami-Dade's Northeast Corridor is a monumental step forward in our efforts to create a modern, connected transit system that serves our residents and visitors,\" said Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins. \"This funding is a testament to our community's vision and the commitment from leaders like Congresswoman Federica Wilson to make that vision a reality. With stops in places like Wynwood, Little Haiti, and at the FIU Biscayne Bay campus, expanding and improving our transit options means less traffic congestion, a cleaner environment, and enhanced access to jobs, healthcare, and educational opportunities for thousands. I am proud to advocate for this vital project alongside our congressional partners and look forward to the progress that will transform how we move across Miami-Dade.\"\n\nMiami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins, who represents the area where the Northeast Corridor would be constructed, has traveled numerous times between Miami-Dade and Washington, D.C., to advocate for this funding.\n\nMiami-Dade County Commission Chairman Oliver Gilbert said, \"This announcement by the FTA marks a commitment to a more accessible, resilient, and inclusive Miami-Dade County. Whether it's jobs, housing, or educational opportunities, the federal support for the Northeast Corridor will bring transformative change and make it easier for people to connect with what matters most in their lives.\"\n\nCathy Dos Santos, Executive Director of Transit Alliance Miami, said, \"In August of 2024, 80% of Miami-Dade voters gave our elected officials a mandate to expand mass rapid transit, the Northeast Corridor delivers. This rail project is a giant step towards a robust, competitive transit network that secures the economic well-being of Miami-Dade. For our workers and families, this commuter rail will be a completely new way of moving that's safe, fast, affordable, and enjoyable, compared to the traffic nightmare of the I-95. We commend Congresswoman Frederica Wilson and Commissioner Higgins for fighting to secure this funding and Miami-Dade's future!\"\n\nFor the approval letter from the Federal Transit Administration, click here.\n\nFor the details on the Federal Transit Administration's announcement, click here.\n\nThe Northeast Corridor Rapid Transit Project includes 13.5 miles of commuter rail, with 7 stations, including Miami Central, Wynwood, Design District, Little Haiti, North Miami, FIU/Biscayne, and West Aventura.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404706", "U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Announces $40M Grant for New State-of-the-Art Terminal at TPA", "2024-10-23", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "TAMPA, FL \u2013 U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) announced that Tampa International Airport (TPA) will receive $40,000,000 in federal grant funding through the Federal Aviation Administration\u2019s (FAA) Airport Terminal Program. The funding will support the construction of a new terminal, Airside D, to meet international and domestic passenger demands.\n\n\u201cTampa International Airport is an economic powerhouse for the Tampa Bay region,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cTampa Airport serves a growing and dynamic region including an estimated 25 million passengers a year, so it\u2019s critical that the airport can modernize and meet the growing demand. This significant federal funding will help improve airport operations and ensure a comfortable travel experience at one of the world\u2019s most beloved airports.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re immensely thankful for the support and partnerships of U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor and the FAA in helping to fund Tampa International Airport\u2019s first new airside terminal in nearly 20 years,\u201d TPA CEO Joe Lopano said. \u201cAirside D will be critical in accommodating the tourism, population and business growth we\u2019re experiencing in the Tampa Bay region and beyond, and we\u2019re looking forward to breaking ground on this project later this year.\u201d\n\nThe grant partially funds the construction of the new 16-gate Airside D terminal, which consists of approximately nine passenger boarding bridges and an automated people mover track connecting Airside D to the main terminal.\n\nThe Airside D project is part of the Airport\u2019s Capital Program and is the third and final phase of TPA\u2019s Master Plan. Phases 1 and 2 included several major projects, including the Main Terminal redevelopment, the Rental Car center, SkyConnect Automated People Mover, a roadway expansion, the Central Utility Plan, the Blue Express Curbsides, and the SkyCenter One office building.\n\nCastor has championed infrastructure investments in Tampa Bay neighborhoods and economic engines under the landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which was passed by the Democratic-led Congress and signed by President Biden. The sizable Tampa Airport grant follows a $22 million grant for Port Tampa Bay announced last week.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-frederica-wilson-presents-750000-to-miami-gardens-for-drainage-improvements", "Congresswoman Frederica Wilson Presents $750,000 to Miami Gardens for Drainage Improvements", "2024-10-20", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "On Saturday, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24) presented $750,000 for a drainage improvement project to mitigate flooding, especially during natural disasters. Congresswoman Wilson successfully acquired this funding through the Congressional Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2023.\n\n\"Miami Gardens is more than just a place I represent\u2014it's my home. This is where my neighbors and friends live, and it's my mission to ensure we serve and uplift our community. We know the threat that climate change poses to our communities. The last two hurricanes cement that reality. This money will help build a more resilient community, protect our and ensure we keep our streets free from flooding,\" Congresswoman Frederica Wilson said.\n\n\"This investment of $750,000 from the office of Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson into our Miami Garden's community is important and will assist the City's efforts to address areas of our community that may experience some localized flooding after periods of heavy rainfall. The City remains committed to improving our drainage systems and mitigate flooding in areas of the city that need it most,\" Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris said.\n\n\"I want to thank our federal partners for this investment in Miami Gardens. Funding that tackles drainage and future flooding allows us to build a resilient community that meets the infrastructure needs of our residents and businesses.\" Miami-Dade Board of County Commission Chairman, who represents Miami Gardens, Oliver Gilbert said.\n\nMiami Gardens Councilwoman Katrina Baskin said, \"It's so exciting to have our representatives in Congress fully support the City of Miami Gardens' vision for increased development and fortified infrastructure to carry us into the next century. Congresswoman Frederica Wilson is one who truly understands and values community.\"\n\n\"Congresswoman Wilson's commitment to Miami Gardens is nothing short of extraordinary. The $750,000 allocation for the drainage improvement project isn't just investments in infrastructure\u2014they are investments in the future of our community. With the drainage improvements, we're directly addressing an issue that has weighed on our residents for far too long\u2014ensuring that every family and business in our city can weather the storm without fear of loss,\" Miami Gardens Councilwoman Linda Julien said. It's about creating lasting change that uplifts our people, and I'm beyond grateful to work alongside leaders like Congresswoman Wilson who genuinely care about the needs of our community. This funding represents more than just dollars and cents\u2014it represents hope, progress, and the belief that the best days for Miami Gardens are still ahead of us. Together, we will take Miami Gardens to the next level of prosperity.\"\n\nCongresswoman Wilson presented this check around Miami Gardens community members at Karaoke in the Gardens.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-wilson-presents-500000-check-to-support-arts-based-youth-based-mental-health-initiative-i-am-me-at-adrienne-arsht-center", "Congresswoman Wilson Presents $500,000 Check to Support Arts-Based Youth Based Mental Health Initiative, \"I Am Me, at Adrienne Arsht Center", "2024-10-19", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "On Saturday, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24) visited the Adrienne Arsht Center to present a check of $500,000 to support the \"I am Me,\" an Arts-Based Youth Mental Health Initiative in Miami-Dade County. Launched in early 2022, \"I am Me\" is a theatrical production and interactive workshop, produced and presented by the Arsht, that travels within M-DCPS, aiming to engage up to 25,000 high schoolers each year. This initiative is designed to support teenagers by offering resources to enhance their mental health. This funding was a part of the Congressional Appropriations for the Fiscal Year of 2023.\n\nCongresswoman Frederica Wilson said, \"Initiatives like 'I Am Me' are impactful resources that leverage the arts to foster mental health and resilience, and we need to see more of this. It's a strengthen to seek help, not a weakness and supporting these programs provides our children with the necessary resources to thrive. I would like to express my gratitude to the Adrienne Arsht Center for leading this initiative and striving to build a healthier, more hopeful future for all young people.\"\n\n\"I am Me\" serves as the first arts-driven mental health initiative of its kind.\n\n\"The Arsht is grateful that Congresswoman Wilson shares our belief that the arts can be a powerful tool for understanding ourselves and each other. I am Me is an important mental wellness initiative that can help spark important conversations among teens about mental health, and we are grateful to have the financial support to allow the Arsht to offer this experience to every Miami-Dade high school each season.\" Johann Zietsman, President and CEO, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County, said.\n\n\"I am Me\" has received the praised and accommodation of students on cast writers alike. For example, Director of \"I am Me\" and playwright Teo Castellanos said, \"'I am Me' calls for the attention we need to place on our young people.\" One M-DCPS student, Isaiah Marcelin, said \"The show has definitely inspired me to be more open about my emotions, inner thoughts and feelings.\"\n\nFollowing the check presentation, attendees enjoyed a free performance as part of the Arsht Center's Free Family Fest featuring \"The Busy Bees' Great Adventure,\" created to inspire responsible environmental citizenship.\n\n\"I am Me\" is one of 12 education programs offered by the Arsht Center and serving 80,000 students each year. To learn more about Arsht Impact programs, visit arshtcenter.org/education\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-wilson-presents-850000-check-to-carrie-meek-foundation-to-fund-new-aviation-workforce-innovation-center-in-north-dade", "Congresswoman Wilson Presents $850,000 Check to Carrie Meek Foundation to Fund New Aviation Workforce Innovation Center in North Dade", "2024-10-19", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "On Friday, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24) visited Flying Classroom at Miami-Opa-Locka Executive Airport to present a check of $850,000 to the Carrie Meek Foundation. The appropriation will fund the Carrie Meek Aviation Workforce Innovation Center, a state-of-the-art upskilling location that will serve residents in Opa-Locka, Liberty City, Miami Gardens, and Hialeah. The project is in collaboration with Experience Aviation, led by renowned pilot Barrington Irving, whose technical training school prepares students across the nation for careers in aviation and STEM-related fields. This funding is part of Fiscal Year 2024 Congressional Appropriations.\n\n\"I'm thrilled to support the Carrie Meek Aviation Workforce Innovation Center. There is no better way to support our communities than by providing ladders of economic opportunity. People want the opportunity to work hard and be rewarded for a job well done,\" Congresswoman Frederica Wilson said. \"Miami is a major transportation hub with high-paying jobs. Too many workers don't know how to get into the Aviation workforce or lack the skills. That's why I'm proud to support this innovative job center, which will empower workers with the skills and resources to land high-paying jobs in the aviation industry.\"\n\nThe Center aims to host technicians from STEM fields to provide aviation industry-specific workforce skills training, and job placement opportunities for residents in North Dade and the surrounding area who are unemployed or underemployed. The facility will include labs for 3D printing, advanced manufacturing, electrical systems, green technologies and other technical skills.\n\n\"The Carrie Meek Aviation Workforce Innovation Center will be a groundbreaking collaboration between The Carrie Meek Foundation and Experience Aviation,\" said Lucia Davis-Raiford, president and CEO of the Foundation. \"It will open doors by increasing awareness of opportunities, then building the talent base to match those opportunities through expert training, career development and economic impact to our community. We are grateful to Congresswoman Wilson for understanding how well-paying jobs in growing industries can lift the livelihood of families in Miami-Dade.\"\n\n\"It meant a lot to me as a young Black man in today's society because not a lot of Black men get offered a lot of opportunities in this field of work, so it was an amazing event,\" said Natory Dixon, a student at the Barrington Irving Technical Training School.\n\n\"Never in my life did I ever think that I was going to get introduced to the aviation field. It was crazy because I was in Miami-Dade Boot camp program, so I got introduced by there and it was like something good that happened out of something bad because I was incarcerated and I got introduced to BITTS through there, so it means a lot to me because I have something on right now,\" said Dabil Chavaria, a 21 year old student at Barrington Irving Technical Training School. \"The event I feel it helped everybody out because they're going to be able to do a lot more stud with the funding\u2014more projects, more hand-on tools and I feel good about the whole experience.\"\n\nFor more photos, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404705", "U.S. Rep. Castor, SBA Administrator Open Small Business Recovery Center to Aid Businesses, Individuals, Renters & Nonprofits Damaged or Economically Harmed By Hurricanes", "2024-10-17", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "TAMPA, FL \u2013 U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) and Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman marked the opening of a new SBA Business Recovery Center (BRC) at the Entrepreneur Collaborative Center in Ybor City to support recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.\n\nThe SBA BRC is available to assist businesses, homeowners and renters with advice and applications for low-interest disaster loans.\n\n\u201cTampa Bay small businesses fuel our economy, but back-to-back hurricanes have hurt local business owners,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cThe new Business Recovery Center will provide on-the-ground support to homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits and help them bounce back. I\u2019m grateful to SBA, USF Small Business Development Center and other dedicated disaster teams for helping our community recover. A low-interest disaster loan is a better option than a credit card with a high interest rate.\u201d\n\nSBA can make disaster loans of up to $500,000 to homeowners to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters may be eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed personal property. Businesses may be eligible for up to $2 million for both physical damage and economic injury from business disruption.\n\nSBA received approximately 37,000 applications for relief submitted from those impacted by Hurricane Helene. The SBA has already made over 700 Helene loan offers totaling about $48 million. For Hurricane Milton, SBA has received over 12,000 applications.\n\nDue to a lapse in funding, SBA has paused disbursement until Congress acts, but the SBA application portal remains open, and individuals and small businesses are strongly encouraged to apply for loans. Disaster survivors should start the application process immediately so SBA can review applications and position eligible applicants to receive offers and funds.\n\nRep. Castor stands ready to return to Washington to vote for additional disaster funding immediately.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3757", "Rep. Frankel Announces Medicare Open Enrollment for 2025", "2024-10-17", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Lois Frankel", "F000462", "frankel.house.gov", "frankel", "https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Earlier this week, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-22) announced the start of Medicare Open Enrollment for 2025. There are currently 67.5 million Medicare enrollees nationwide, including over 350,000 in Palm Beach County. Every year, Medicare enrollees have the opportunity to review their coverage and select a plan that best meets their needs. Recent changes to Medicare could save seniors thousands of dollars.\n\n\u201cThis week we marked the start of an important time of year for the over 350,000 Medicare beneficiaries in Palm Beach County,\u201d said Rep. Frankel. \u201cMedicare plans change every year, so seniors should check all coverage options to select the best plan for them.\u201d\n\nUnder the leadership of President Biden and Vice President Harris, as well as Democrats in Congress, we are lowering health care costs. The price of insulin is now capped at $35 per month, recommended vaccines\u2014including the shingles vaccine\u2014are available at no cost, and starting next year, there will be a $2,000 out-of-pocket cap for prescription drugs.\n\nOpen enrollment runs through December 7, 2024, for coverage beginning January 1, 2025. Enrollees can visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE to compare plans.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3266", "Wasserman Schultz, DeGette Lead Congressional Call for FDA to Wrap Up E-Cigarette Marketing Review, Take Action on Thousands of Illegal E-Cigarette Products on Shelves", "2024-10-17", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) and Diana DeGette (CO-01) announced that they led 65 Members of Congress in a letter to call on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to finalize review of outstanding Premarket Tobacco Product Applications (PMTAs) for e-cigarette products and to take aggressive enforcement action to remove the thousands of illegal, flavored e-cigarettes that remain on the market without approval. The Members also urged the agency to follow the science on the well-documented risks that flavored e-cigarettes pose to youth and deny PMTAs for all non-tobacco-flavored e-cigarettes, including menthol-flavored products.\n\n\u201cFlavored e-cigarettes put a new generation of kids at risk of nicotine addiction and the serious health harms that result from tobacco use. When children\u2019s health is at stake, we cannot tolerate any delay. Unfortunately, the most popular tobacco products with kids have been on the market for several years, with observable negative consequences for public health, and I am very disappointed that the FDA still has not finalized reviewing pending applications per the court-ordered deadline, nor has it removed all these illegal products from the shelves,\u201d said Wasserman Schultz. \u201cLeaving flavored e-cigarette products widely available without understanding the full impact they have on attracting youth and other non-tobacco users is dangerous and the FDA must swiftly finalize this review process and use all its enforcement tools available to make sure that kids are protected against illegal, kid-friendly products.\u201d\n\n\u201cOver 1.6 million middle and high-school aged students use e-cigarettes \u2013 an unacceptably high figure. There are thousands of products on the market designed specifically to appeal to young people, including flavored e-cigarettes,\u201d said DeGette. \u201cThe FDA must follow the science and crack down on bad actors looking to hook America\u2019s youth on nicotine instead of allowing Big Tobacco to continue to jeopardize the health of our young people while padding their own pockets.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe applaud Reps. Wasserman Schultz and DeGette and all the signers of this letter for their leadership in urging the FDA to finish its review of e-cigarette marketing applications and step up enforcement against the thousands of illegal, flavored e-cigarette products on the market,\u201d said Yolonda C. Richardson, President and CEO of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. \u201cWe cannot allow e-cigarette companies to continue targeting our kids with products that are more addictive than ever, with some now even having built-in video games. The FDA and other agencies must act to take these products off the market.\u201d\n\nThe FDA was under a court-ordered deadline to complete review of pending e-cigarette applications that were filed on time by September 9, 2021. While FDA has completed its review of many e-cigarettes, reviews of thousands of PMTAs remain incomplete, including applications for some products with a large market share that are most popular with youth, such as Juul. At a recent Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee hearing, FDA indicated that nearly 500,000 e-cigarette PMTAs remain under review at the agency. Completing these premarket reviews and taking aggressive enforcement actions to clear that market of illegal e-cigarette products that do not have FDA authorization are important ways to protect youth from e-cigarettes.\n\nSigners include: Becca Balint; Nanette Barrag\u00e1n; Joyce Beatty; Ami Bera; Lisa Blunt Rochester; Suzanne Bonamici; Brendan Boyle; Julia Brownley; Nikki Budzinski; Judy Chu; Emanuel Cleaver; Steve Cohen; Angie Craig; Danny Davis; Madeleine Dean; Rosa DeLauro; Mark DeSaulnier; Lloyd Doggett; Adriano Espaillat; Dwight Evans; Brian Fitzpatrick; Lois Frankel; John Garamendi; Ra\u00fal Grijalva; Robin Kelly; Andy Kim; Raja Krishnamoorthi; Ann Kuster; Greg Landsman; Barbara Lee; Mike Levin; Ted Lieu; Celeste Maloy; Betty McCollum; Grace Meng; Kevin Mullin; Jerrold Nadler; Eleanor Norton; Chris Pappas; Brittany Pettersen; Dean Phillips; Chellie Pingree; Mark Pocan; Katie Porter; Mike Quigley; Jamie Raskin; Janice Schakowsky; Hillary Scholten; Kim Schrier; Terri Sewell; Eric Sorensen; Darren Soto; Melanie Stansbury; Eric Swalwell; Rashida Tlaib; Jill Tokuda; Ritchie Torres; Lori Trahan; David Trone; Lauren Underwood; Juan Vargas; Maxine Waters; Bonnie Watson Coleman.\n\nThe full letter can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-wilson-presents-225000-check-to-broward-community-and-family-health-centers-for-a-mobile-dental-clinic-van", "Congresswoman Wilson Presents $225,000 Check to Broward Community and Family Health Centers for a Mobile Dental Clinic Van", "2024-10-16", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "On Wednesday, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson visited Broward Community and Family Health Centers, Inc. (BCOM), to Present a $225,000 Check for a Mobile Dental Clinic Van.\n\nThis van will provide dental services for all residents\u2014children and adults\u2014within the local communities. Congresswoman Wilson successfully acquired this funding through the Congressional Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2022.\n\nCongresswoman Frederica Wilson said, \"As we present this check today, we are investing in the smiles and health of our community. I am so proud to have advocated for this funding to assist the Broward Community and Family Health Centers. Today, we proudly present this check to fund a mobile dental clinic van, bringing vital dental care directly to those in need. Together, we are ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has access to the essential dental care they deserve. This van will ensure that no one in our community is left behind when it comes to their health and well-being.\"\n\n\"Dental health is a critical component of overall well-being, and at BCOM, we are committed to ensuring that every member of our community has access to top-notch oral care,\" said Broward Community and Family Health Centers CEO, Rosalyn Frazier. \"This innovative initiative will allow us to reach more residents across Broward County, breaking down barriers to access and delivering essential dental services directly to those in need.\"\n\nBCOM's Board President and Mayor of West Park, Felicia Brunson, stated, \"We are thrilled to introduce the BCOM Mobile Dental Unit to the West Park community, expanding access to essential dental care for our residents. This initiative reflects our commitment to improving health outcomes by bringing services directly to those who need them most. We extend our deepest gratitude to Congresswoman Frederica Wilson for her steadfast leadership and unwavering support of West Park, which continues to drive positive change in our city.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3264", "Wasserman Schultz, Salazar Sponsor Bipartisan REVOCAR Act to Defund Maduro\u2019s Repression of Venezuelans", "2024-10-15", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), co-chair of the Congressional Venezuela Democracy Caucus, and Mar\u00eda Elvira Salazar (FL-27), Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, introduced the bipartisan Revoke Exemptions for Venezuelan Oil to Curb Autocratic Repression Act, or REVOCAR Act, to prohibit new and existing licenses for companies to transact with Venezuela's state oil company, which provides revenue for the Maduro regime's crimes against humanity. U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) previously introduced a similar bill in the Senate.\n\n\u201cMaduro\u2019s brutal regime refuses to honor the undeniable election results, despite clear evidence proving his loss. Rescinding these special licenses, which exclusively serve to subsidize the regime's crony corruption, violent repression, and flagrant human rights abuses, must be part of our international effort to reject Maduro's election theft,\u201d said Wasserman Schultz. \u201cIf we truly intend to see through a peaceful transition of power and honor the will of the Venezuelan people, we cannot afford to indulge fossil fuel companies\u2019 investors at the expense of democracy.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s long past time to cut off the flow of money that the Maduro Dictatorship uses to oppress their people,\u201d said Salazar. \u201cWe are sending a loud and clear message that if Maduro stays, there will be no oil money for the Venezuelan regime.\u201d\n\n\u201cDespite the sweeping and clear opposition victory in the recent Venezuelan presidential election, the Maduro regime refused to release results, announced that it had won instead, and arbitrarily arrested thousands of opposition supporters,\u201d said Durbin. \u201cWe must put an end to the outright theft of the Venezuelan voters\u2019 overwhelming choice for a better future. I\u2019m pleased that Reps. Wasserman Schultz and Salazar are introducing the House bill to terminate all U.S. petroleum cooperation and related trade with Venezuela until the legitimate results of the recent election are respected. The Maduro regime clings to power using oil revenues dependent on U.S. involvement. Under our bill, that will end, and so will Maduro\u2019s financial strength.\u201d\n\nThe REVOCAR Act would prohibit U.S. persons and entities from engaging in transactions with PdVSA, Venezuela\u2019s regime-controlled energy company, eliminating General Licenses issued by the Treasury Department\u2019s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) that allow certain companies to do business with the Maduro regime. These prohibitions would extend for three years or until the President certifies that a democratic transfer of power to Venezuelan president-elect Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez has taken place.\n\nOn July 28, 2024, more than 10,000,000 citizens of Venezuela voted in a presidential election in which meticulously documented and publicized data from credible election monitors clearly and convincingly showed that opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez received more than two-thirds of the votes against the regime of Nicolas Maduro. The Maduro regime has refused to respect the overwhelming choice of the people of Venezuela and subsequently arrested and abused thousands of innocent citizens of Venezuela, including children, for peaceful political participation.\n\nReps. Wasserman Schultz and Salazar have partnered on recent efforts promoting democracy in Venezuela including the VOICE Act, which would place individual sanctions on anti-democratic officials in the Maduro regime, and the AFFECT Human Rights in Venezuela Act, which would direct U.S. support for international investigations and reporting on the Maduro regime\u2019s criminal repression of the Venezuelan people.\n\nThe full text of the bill can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-frederica-wilson-joined-city-of-miami-commission-meeting-to-present-1000000-check-for-little-haiti-youth-center-at-athalie-range-park", "Congresswoman Frederica Wilson joined City of Miami Commission Meeting to Present $1,000,000 Check for Little Haiti Youth Center at Athalie Range Park", "2024-10-15", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "At the City of Miami Commission Meeting Tuesday, Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24) presented a $1,000,000 check to the City of Miami for the Little Haiti Youth Center at Athalie Range Park. It is designed to provide local youth and residents with a safe, state-of-the-art space to gather and thrive.\n\nCongresswoman Frederica Wilson said, \"This isn't just any building; it'll be a 12,000 square-foot hub of creativity and activity. This will be a place where our children and families can gather, learn, and create lasting memories together. Because let's be real\u2014no child should have to sit in a McDonalds parking lot just to find WiFi to finish their homework. Our kids deserve better, and it's our job to create those spaces for them. I'm incredibly proud to be part of this effort to uplift our community and invest in our future.\"\n\nThis approximately 12,000 sq. ft. ADA-compliant facility will feature a 3,000 sq. ft. multipurpose room, a computer lab with charging stations, three homework rooms, an arts and crafts room, an indoor fitness area with equipment and lockers, a kitchen, restrooms, and ample storage. Outside, a large plaza with concrete seating and shade structures will support outdoor activities. These innovative features will create a space where children and families can enrich their lives and strengthen social development. This funding was secured as part of the Fiscal Year 2024 Congressional Appropriations process.\n\n\"On behalf of Miami, I sincerely thank Congresswoman Wilson for her generous funding of the Athelia Range Park Community Center, a greatly needed state-of-the-art facility with a multi-purpose room, fitness room, computer lab, and adjacent plaza that will serve residents of all ages,\" said City of Miami Mayor Francis X. Suarez. \"Your support has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.\"\n\nCity of Miami Chairwoman Christine King, who represents this park in her district, said, \"Thank you Congresswoman Wilson for helping the future generations of our community with this $1M fund for the Little Haiti Youth Center at Athalie Range Park. It is our responsibility to provide children of every ability a place they can play, learn, and connect. By supporting their development and providing them meaningful engagement opportunities, we are nourishing the minds and dreams of future community advocates and leaders.\n\nMiami-Dade County Commissioner Keon Hardeman said, \"Investing in a safe, state-of-the-art space at Athalie Range Park is essential for our local youth and residents to flourish. This new space will foster new connections, empower dreams, and cultivate a thriving environment that will uplift our community for decades to come.\"\n\nCity of Miami Commissioner Manolo Reyes said, \"[Congresswoman Wilson] goes beyond her district, and when you talk about a real public servant, this is an example of it.\"\n\nCity of Miami Commissioner Damian Pardo said, \"I just want to express my gratitude and what a pleasure it is to work with [Congresswoman Wilson], and I look forward to the work we're doing in Little Bahamas.\"\n\nThis park is named after Athalie Range, a trailblazing Bahamian American civil rights activist and the first Black person to serve on the Miami City Commission. She also previously served as President of her children's school PTA and Miami-Dade PTA.\n\nTo view the full recording of the presentation, please visit the City of Miami TV to see the City of Miami Commission Meeting Archives.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3756", "Rep. Frankel Joins Local Officials at Village of Wellington City Hall to Assess Hurricane Milton Damages, Support Recovery Efforts", "2024-10-10", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Lois Frankel", "F000462", "frankel.house.gov", "frankel", "https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Wellington, FL \u2013 Earlier this afternoon, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-22) joined local officials at the Village of Wellington City Hall to assess damages and support recovery efforts following the significant impact on several homes caused by the tornado that Hurricane Milton spawned in the area.\n\n\u201cThe path of destruction from this tornado is shocking, with numerous houses in Wellington left severely damaged, while others right next door remained untouched,\u201d said Rep. Frankel. \u201cI\u2019m deeply grateful to Palm Beach County\u2019s first responders and local officials who\u2019ve been working around the clock to keep Wellington\u2019s residents safe and begin the cleanup and restoration process. I\u2019m working closely with local leaders to ensure we get the federal help needed to support recovery and rebuilding efforts.\u201d\n\nFor those impacted by the storm, please visit the resources below for the latest updates on recovery efforts and available assistance:\n\nApply for Disaster Assistance: Residents in designated counties can apply for FEMA assistance by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 1-800-621-3362, or through the FEMA app.\n\nDocument damage: Take photos to submit to your insurance company and protect damaged property. A helpful FEMA fact sheet is here.\n\nReport hazards: Wellington residents can report issues like downed trees, flooding, or other storm-related concerns via the GoWellington App or by visiting wellingtonfl.gov/GoWellington\n\nWaste disposal: Do not mix debris and vegetation when setting them at the curb. Wellington debris removal contractors will collect storm-generated vegetative debris in neighborhoods throughout the Village.\n\nPower outages: Click here to report outages directly to Florida Power & Light (FPL).\n\nGet additional help: Call 211 or visit 211\u2019s website to be connected with additional resources.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-congresswoman-wilson-demands-speaker-johnson-bring-back-congress-to-pass-hurricane-relief-and-price-gouging-legislation", "ICYMI: Congresswoman Wilson Demands Speaker Johnson Bring Back Congress to Pass Hurricane Relief and Price-Gouging Legislation", "2024-10-10", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Miami, Fla.\u2014 In the wake of Hurricane Milton, Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24) recently joined Congressional colleagues to demand Speaker Johnson bring back Congress to pass Hurricane Disaster Relief funds and call for a federal price gouging ban.\n\nOn Wednesday, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24) joined 63 of her congressional colleagues, including Congresswoman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Congressman Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09), on a letter to ask Speaker Mike Johnson to \"bring the US House of Representatives back into session to approve the necessary funding that will empower FEMA and the SBA to fulfill their disaster relief missions.\"\n\nThis letter came \"amidst a season marked by unprecedented natural disasters and increasingly severe weather events that have left communities across our nation in dire need of additional and comprehensive disaster relief funding,\" including Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene.\n\nFor the link to the full letter, click here.\n\nThe House of Representatives recently passed a short-gap funding bill to keep the government open until December, but it failed to provide additional funds to FEMA and the SBA for supplemental disaster relief. MAGA Republicans denied those additional funds despite Democrats' calls for a comprehensive emergency supplemental.\n\nAdditionally, on Tuesday, in a joint statement with the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC), Chairwoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-7), along with Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Congressman Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09), and Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), addressed recent reports of airline and hotel price-gouging as Florida residents evacuate ahead of Hurricane Milton:\n\n\"Right now, Floridians are preparing for what could become one of the state's worst storms in a century. Authorities are telling families in the Tampa area that they will die if they don't leave their homes. But instead of making it easier for people to evacuate, airlines and hotels are exploiting a horrific situation to charge astronomical fares only the rich can afford\u2014from over $600 for a single night in a Hampton Inn to over $1,000 for flights that usually cost around $100. Exploiting vulnerable people fleeing a deadly storm for higher profits is a new low.\n\n\"In North Carolina and Georgia, while families try to recover and rebuild from the devastating impacts of Helene, there have been hundreds of similar incidents of bad actors price-gouging residents on everything from groceries to gas to hotel rooms. This egregious price-gouging hampers evacuations and undermines recovery efforts, while putting vulnerable residents in serious jeopardy.\n\n\"We applaud Secretary Pete Buttigieg for taking these allegations seriously. In the coming days and weeks, we will need a whole-of-government focus on protecting the people impacted by these disasters from predatory price-gouging.\n\n\"Further action is still needed from the federal government to stop the corporate exploitation that impacts all areas of American life, whether at the grocery store or gas station. We need a federal ban on price gouging, more stringent antitrust laws and enforcement, and for Congress to reassert its role and governing power in this space\u2014something CPC is deeply committed to and actively engaged in.\"\n\nCongresswoman Wilson has and continues to communicate with FEMA to receive updates on Hurricane Milton. Congresswoman Wilson previously introduced the Homeowner's Defense Act, which would provide homeowners in low-income communities with grants and resources to prepare for natural disasters and help ensure insurance companies pay claims arising from storms.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases/ahead-of-hurricane-miltons-landfall-congressman-maxwell-frost-joins-noaas-hurricane-hunters-for-flight-into-the-storm", "Ahead of Hurricane Milton\u2019s Landfall, Congressman Maxwell Frost Joins NOAA\u2019S Hurricane Hunters for Flight Into the Storm", "2024-10-08", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Maxwell Frost", "F000476", "frost.house.gov", "frost", "https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Frost takes flight to observe the gathering of vital data to help improve track and intensity forecasts\n\nPhotos and footage from the flight can be found here\n\nORLANDO, FL \u2014 Early this morning, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) returned from a flight directly into Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 hurricane at the time of the flight, with sustained winds exceeding 175 mph in the Gulf of Mexico. Congressman Frost, a member of the Space, Science, and Technology committee, which oversees the functions and budget of NOAA, joined NOAA's Hurricane Hunters to observe as they collect critical atmospheric data to improve the accuracy of storm forecasts ahead of its landfall in Florida.\n\nWith Central Florida in the storm's direct path, Frost hopes his experience will encourage Floridians to take all necessary preparations in anticipation of this unprecedented and serious storm .\n\nIn a statement, Rep. Frost describes the experience and sends message to Floridians:\n\n\"As my team and I do everything we can to prepare for Hurricane Milton, last night, I was invited by NOAA to fly into the storm with the agency's specialized group of Hurricane Hunters. The scientists on board analyze storm information and subsequently send it to the National Hurricane Center, aiding in the creation of predictions and storm tracks that play a vital role in saving lives. During our flight, we penetrated Hurricane Milton's eye three times as it reached Category 5 strength. The turbulence during our flight was extremely intense, and at one point, we free-fell several thousand feet, which underscored the storm's ferocity.\n\n\"After countless hours flying through Hurricane Milton, and seeing the atmospheric data come in firsthand, I can confidently say this storm deserves serious attention from every Central Floridian. Regardless of its impact category, the storm surge, flooding, and high winds will result in significant destruction and will put countless lives and vulnerable communities at risk. Please prepare, sign up for local emergency alerts, and know that our office is here to help you navigate the storm.\"\n\nVisit nhc.noaa.gov for the latest forecast and advisories on Hurricane Milton. Central Floridians can also access Rep. Frost\u2019s hurricane resource guide, which has already been sent to nearly 300k constituents. As residents finalize their preparations for Hurricane Milton, they can follow @RepMaxwellFrost on social media for federal and local resources. For additional support following the storm regarding FEMA claims or assistance with federal agencies, FL-10 constituents can call the office at 321-388-9808 or visit frost.house.gov to submit a casework request.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-cherfilus-mccormicks-statement-one-year-anniversary-october-7th", "Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick's Statement on the One-Year Anniversary of the October 7th Terrorist Attack", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick issued the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th terrorist attack.\n\n\"One year ago, on October 7, the world witnessed the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. In a shocking display of brutality, Hamas terrorists murdered over 1,200 innocent people, used rape as a weapon of war, and kidnapped dozens of men, women, and children, tearing families apart and leaving entire communities shattered. These atrocities were not isolated acts of violence, but part of a calculated campaign of terror by Hamas, a proxy of Iran, designed to sow fear and destruction.\n\nThese barbaric acts, including those committed by Hezbollah and Iran itself, must come to an end, the hostages must come home, and the international community must stand united in demanding their immediate release. We must also commit to surging humanitarian aid into Gaza and ending the suffering of the Palestinian people at the hands of Hamas.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3755", "Reps. Frankel, Gottheimer, Wilson, Kim Mark One Year Since Devastating October 7 Hamas Terrorist Attacks on Israel with Bipartisan Resolution", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Lois Frankel", "F000462", "frankel.house.gov", "frankel", "https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Reps. Lois Frankel (D-FL-22), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5), Joe Wilson (R-SC-2), and Young Kim (R-CA-40) announced they will introduce a bipartisan resolution condemning Hamas\u2019s October 7, 2023 terrorist attack on Israel, one year after that dark day. The resolution unequivocally condemns Hamas\u2019s barbaric actions on and since October 7th and reinforces the United States\u2019 ironclad commitment to Israel\u2019s security. It also underscores the urgent need to ensure the release of all remaining hostages\u2014including seven Americans, address humanitarian needs in Gaza, and bring lasting peace to the region.\n\n\u201cToday, we mark a devastating and somber anniversary\u2014one year since Hamas terrorists unleashed the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. On October 7, 2023, the world witnessed in horror as Hamas murdered, raped, and maimed thousands of innocent civilians, while taking 240 hostages\u2014unknown how many remain alive captive in Hamas\u2019s dark tunnels, enduring unimaginable suffering,\u201d said Rep. Frankel. \u201cMore than ever, it is important that there is no separation in the bond between the United States and Israel and that Hamas release the hostages.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs we commemorate one year since October 7, we honor the memory of the innocent civilians who were brutally murdered by Hamas terrorists and we stand with our greatest ally in the Middle East, Israel in its efforts to secure the safe return of the remaining hostages. We can never forget that Hamas terrorist terrorists launched a devastating attack against Israel, brutally murdering more than 1,200 people, and kidnapping more than 240 people. 101 people remain captive, including 7 Americans,\u201d said Rep. Gottheimer. \u201cWe must continue to combat the surge in antisemitism that has followed and ensure that Iran and its proxies, including Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), Hezbollah, and the Houthis, are held accountable. This bipartisan resolution reaffirms America\u2019s unwavering commitment to Israel\u2019s security and to the release of all the remaining hostages, including American citizens.\u201d\n\n\u201cOn October 7th, 2023, the world watched in horror as Iranian puppet Hamas attacked Israel and committed mass murder and other atrocities on innocent men, women, and children. One year later, the U.S. remains steadfast in its support of the Israeli people and its commitment to securing the safe release of the remaining hostages,\u201d said Rep. Wilson.\n\n\u201cHamas\u2019s brutal terrorist attack against our ally Israel on October 7, 2023 put the worst of evil on display for the world to watch. We will not forget the darkness of that day that will live in infamy,\u201d said Rep. Kim. \u201cOne year later, the United States cannot waver in standing with our freedom-loving allies and against terrorism \u2013 wherever it rears its ugly head. On the Foreign Affairs Committee, I\u2019ll keep working to bring Americans held hostage back home safely and to hold the Iran regime and its terrorist proxies Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis accountable for their unfathomable violence and disregard for human decency.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs we approach one year since the mass murder, torture, and kidnapping of men, women, and children by Hamas, the world must understand that Hamas\u2019 atrocities did not stop after October 7, 2023. Hamas continues to launch rockets into Israel, uses Palestinian civilians as human shields, and worst of all, is still holding 101 hostages from 21 nations. But this is not the only threat facing Israel as Iran\u2019s proxies, including Hezbollah, continue to show. The world must continue to condemn these brutal acts and support Israel\u2019s right to defend itself from ongoing terrorism. This is why I am deeply grateful to Representatives Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Young Kim (R-CA), Lois Frankel (D-FL), and Joe Wilson (R-SC) for speaking out forcefully and reminding the world of Hamas and other Iranian proxies\u2019 demonstration of pure evil. As October 7, 2024 nears, we must recommit ourselves to doing everything possible to bring the remaining hostages home and ensure the safety and security of Israel prevails over the death and destruction chosen by Hamas, Hezbollah, and other terrorist organizations,\u201d said Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee.\n\n\u201cOn October 7, 2023 the world witnessed the largest antisemitic event perpetrated against the Jewish people since the Holocaust,\u201d said Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and National Director of the Anti-Defamation League. \u201cThese horrific terrorist attacks led by Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and others, have ultimately led to the targeting of Jewish communities around the globe and a groundswell of antisemitic rage unseen in decades. We thank Reps. Gottheimer, Young, Frankel, and Wilson for leading this bipartisan resolution, calling for the return of all hostages still in Gaza, and condemning the Hamas terrorist attacks and the ensuing global antisemitic wave that continues to present new threats to communities and students on campuses around the world each day.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe bipartisan resolution reflects Congress\u2019s moral clarity about the genocidal atrocities committed by Hamas against Israel on Oct 7. It underscores the enduring threat posed by the terrorist organization to American citizens and citizens of scores of other countries. The resolution could not be more important at a time when there are those who seek to normalize Hamas\u2019s actions and justify its brutality in an inversion of reality. Congress rightly puts on the record Israel\u2019s right to defend itself against the actions of the Islamic Republic of Iran and its proxies. FDD Action supports this resolution and honors the lives of those killed by Hamas and supports the unconditional release of all remaining hostages\u201d. \u2013 FDD Action.\n\n\u201cHadassah supports Reps. Josh Gottheimer, Lois Frankel, Young Kim, and Joe Wilson\u2019s efforts through this resolution to commemorate one year since Hamas\u2019 brutal October 7, 2023, attack against Israel, honor the victims of Hamas\u2019s murderous terror and rampant sexual violence, and demand the immediate, safe return of the hostages. The massacres that day and the devastating events that have followed continue to have a profound impact on Jewish communities around the world,\u201d said Carol Ann Schwartz, National President of Hadassah, the Women\u2019s Zionist Organization of America.\n\n\u201cNearly one year ago, Hamas terrorists changed the lives of Jews around the globe \u2013 how we act, how we are treated, and how we live. But Jews refuse to live in fear or be cowed from living our full Jewish lives in community,\u201d said Eric Fingerhut, President and CEO of the Jewish Federations of North America. \u201cThat\u2019s why Jewish Federations will be marking the anniversary with more than 100 events that will remember the victims, honor the heroes, and stand in solidarity with Israel. That is why we strongly support a bipartisan Congressional resolution commemorating the events of October 7th, as it condemns Hamas for their atrocities, calls for Hamas to surrender and return the hostages, and reaffirms Israel's right to self-defense. We are proud that the sponsors realize the importance of this day and want it to be recognized by the rest of the United States.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the most documented atrocity in history, including Go-Pro video uploaded by the terrorists themselves in order to amplify the terror and trauma, intentional campaigns of distortion have led to denial that Hamas and their allies committed sexual atrocities, or far worse, that the rapes of Israelis and others were deserved as acts of resistance,\u201d said Meredith Jacobs, CEO of Jewish Women International. \u201cAt JWI, we hold fast to the tenets of our work \u2014 victims are never blamed, survivors are believed, rape is never justified. Acknowledging the truth, attributing the strategic and systemic use of sexual violence as a weapon of war to Hamas, is a critical first step in giving some sort of historical justice to the victims and survivors. We thank Representatives Gottheimer, Frankel, Wilson, and Kim for their leadership in introducing this resolution.\u201d\n\n\u201cNational Council of Jewish Women applauds Representatives Josh Gottheimer, Lois Frankel, Joe Wilson, and Young Kim for introducing this crucial resolution to ensure that October 7 remains at the forefront of our collective memory,\u201d said Sheila Katz, CEO of National Council of Jewish Women. \u201cAs we approach the one-year mark since Hamas terrorists brutally attacked nearly 1,200 lives, took hundreds of innocent people hostage, and used sexual violence as a tool of war, we echo this call to unconditionally condemn these atrocities of October 7. We are also grateful that this resolution addresses the alarming rise in global antisemitism. Everyone deserves to live free from violence and discrimination.\u201d\n\nThe resolution currently has 130 cosponsors\u201481 Democrats and 49 Republicans. It is supported by the American Jewish Committee (AJC), the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), FDD Action, Hadassah, the Women\u2019s Zionist Organization of America, the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), Jewish Women International (JWI), National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), and other advocacy organizations.\n\nIn observance of the one-year anniversary, Rep. Frankel will attend a closed-press community commemoration event hosted by the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County this evening.\n\nFor full text of the resolution, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-maxwell-frost-statement-on-one-year-anniversary-of-hamas-led-attack-on-israel", "Congressman Maxwell Frost Statement on One Year Anniversary of Hamas-led Attack on Israel", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Maxwell Frost", "F000476", "frost.house.gov", "frost", "https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) released a statement as the world mourns the first anniversary of the Hamas-led attack on Israel, where more than 1,200 Israelis died in the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, and nearly 100 Israelis remain held hostage by Hamas. We also mourn the more than 40,000 people in Gaza who have been killed following the aftermath of the October 7th attack.\n\nIn a statement, Rep. Frost says:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s anniversary weighs heavy on my heart as we mark one year since the horrendous October 7th terrorist attack and atrocities were carried out. Families in Israel and across the world, and those whose loved ones remain captive, continue to endure unimaginable pain\u2013 the largest loss of Jewish life since the Holocaust. Hostages are still not home with their families, and we cannot stop working till they are home.\n\n\u201cThe horrific attack on October 7th led to the start of a devastating year-long war that has killed tens of thousands and caused millions of Palestinians to suffer and be displaced. The fear, grief, and loss are felt far beyond borders as the toll of war grows ever deeper with no clear end in sight.\n\n\u201cAs we honor the memories of those lost, we must also carry forward a shared hope and commitment for peace. Today, let us reflect on our pain but remind ourselves of our collective responsibility to push for a ceasefire, hostages returning home, establish a lasting peace, and seek healing for those so devastatingly impacted.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-announces-62-million-us-economic-development-administration-investment", "Soto Announces $6.2 Million U.S. Economic Development Administration Investment for the Kissimmee Utility Authority", "2024-10-04", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Darren Soto", "S001200", "soto.house.gov", "soto", "https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "KISSIMMEE, FL \u2014 This week, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) announced that the Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) will receive a $6.2 million investment from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) for utility infrastructure improvements to support the semiconductor manufacturing industry in Central Florida. This EDA investment will be matched with $7.5 million in local funds.\n\n\u201cWe are thrilled to see the U.S. Economic Development Administration invest $6.2 million in utilities infrastructure here in Kissimmee, with an additional $7.5 million in local funds,\u201d said Congressman Darren Soto. \u201cThis investment is a game-changer for our community, as it supports the expansion of the semiconductor manufacturing industry. It not only strengthens our infrastructure but also positions Kissimmee as a hub for innovation, job creation, and economic growth in the region.\u201d\n\n\u201cMaintaining a reliable power grid is essential to creating opportunities for economic development in Osceola County for generations to come,\u201d said KUA President and General Manager Brian Horton. \u201cWe look forward to utilizing this significant investment to further enhance our power capabilities to support the innovation that\u2019s positioned our region as a growing tech hub.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe City appreciates Congressman Darren Soto\u2019s and the U.S. Economic Development Administration's support. Investing in our power supply is crucial for ensuring reliability and efficiency for residents, businesses, and stakeholders,\u201d said Kissimmee City Manager Mike Steigerwald. \u201cThis funding will drive growth in the City of Kissimmee, positioning our area as a competitive choice for future investments while supporting our commitment to sustainability and enhanced community services.\u201d\n\nThis project is funded under the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023, which provided EDA with $483 million in additional Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) Program funds for disaster relief and recovery for areas that received a major disaster declaration under the Robert T. Stafford Act as a result of Hurricanes Ian and Fiona, wildfires, flooding, and other natural disasters occurring in calendar years 2021 and 2022.\n\nPlease visit the EDA\u2019s Disaster Supplemental webpage for more information.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3259", "Wasserman Schultz Leads Florida Congressional Democrats in Demanding DeSantis Rescind Abstinence-Only Directives", "2024-10-04", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) announced she had led seven Democratic Members of the Florida congressional delegation in a letter to Governor Ron DeSantis and state Department of Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. demanding that the administration rescind directives requiring Florida public schools to solely teach abstinence-only sexual education. These orders instructed schools to remove core topics that are proven to be effective in keeping students safe, such as contraception, consent, and reproductive anatomy.\n\nThe letter, delivered yesterday, was also signed by Representatives Kathy Castor (FL-14), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Darren Soto (FL-9), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24).\n\nMany schools currently offer medically accurate, comprehensive sexual education for their students. But the DeSantis Department of Education is using the law to require schools to get approval on their curriculum from the state to force abstinence-only programs on all Florida public schools and students. Abstinence-only programs have been consistently proven ineffective, damaging to students\u2019 health, and discriminatory against the LGBTQ+ community.\n\n\u201cContrary to your claims, this law does not give parents more rights regarding their child\u2019s education. Instead, it takes power from local educators and parents to decide the best educational materials for their students, and instead hands it to Tallahassee political appointees averse to science, facts, or public health data,\u201d the Members wrote. \u201cWe therefore demand that your Administration and DOE rescind these harmful directives issued to our school districts that go way beyond state law and ensure local educators can teach the comprehensive sexual education curricula that parents want, and healthy students need.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-congressional-hispanic-caucus-host-roundtable-focused-voting-rights", "Soto, Congressional Hispanic Caucus Host Roundtable Focused on Voting Rights Issues in Hispanic Communities", "2024-10-02", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Darren Soto", "S001200", "soto.house.gov", "soto", "https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Last week, Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Vice Chair of Policy Darren Soto and CHC Chair Nanette Barrag\u00e1n hosted a roundtable with CHC members, Congressional leadership, Biden-Harris Administration officials, and community stakeholders focused on voting rights issues affecting Hispanic communities ahead of the upcoming presidential election.\n\nDuring the roundtable, attendees spoke about barriers affecting access to the ballot box for Latinos across the country\u2014such as reducing vote-by-mail and early vote options, mis/disinformation, gerrymandering, language barriers, petition drive limitations, and other suppression tactics\u2014and ways Congress and the Executive branch can work in local communities to mitigate issues.\n\n\u201cIt is crucial that we address the pressing barriers that hinder Latino communities' access to the ballot. From making it harder to vote to widespread dissemination of misinformation/disinformation to gerrymandering, language obstacles, and other forms of voter suppression, these challenges disproportionately affect Hispanic voters,\u201d said CHC Vice Chair of Policy Soto. \u201cWe must foster collaboration across federal, state, and local levels to protect voting rights. By taking meaningful action, we can empower local communities and ensure that every Latino voice is heard and respected in our democracy.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Congressional Hispanic Caucus knows that our vote is our voice, and we will protect the rights of all Americans to register and cast their vote \u2013 including our Latino communities. Serious barriers like voter suppression, language access issues, and gerrymandering continue to impact Latino voters and threaten to weaken our voices,\u201d said CHC Chair Barraga\u0301n. \u201cThe CHC Voting Rights Roundtable brought together CHC Members, Congressional leadership, and expert stakeholders from across the country to discuss the challenges and collaborate on new policy ideas to protect Latinos' right to vote. We are committed to the expansion of access to the ballot box, voter education, and the elimination of obstacles to register and vote in order to ensure that every Latino voter can fully participate in our democracy.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a member of the House Administration Subcommittee on Elections, I am deeply concerned about the increasing spread of misinformation in our electoral process. With the November election approaching, it is imperative to raise awareness about the deceptive use of artificial intelligence creating fake videos that mislead Americans with false information about our candidates, especially among Americans whose first language is not English, including Latinos,\u201d said CHC Vice Chair of Communications Norma Torres. \u201cAdditionally, it is crucial to safeguard our election workers from potential threats, harassment, or mistreatment. My colleagues and I voiced our concerns during the roundtable discussions to advocate for fair and transparent elections. It is essential for us to continue our efforts to ensure a peaceful transfer of power and to uphold the United States as a beacon of free and equitable elections.\u201d\n\n\u201cI'm thankful for the leadership of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus for leaning into the importance of making sure that we move legislation forward that's going to protect the right to vote for the Latino community and for every single American,\" said House Democratic Caucus Leader Hakeem Jeffries. \"Extreme MAGA Republicans are abandoning democracy and doubling and tripling down on Trump's Project 2025. Which is why, at the very top of our governing agenda, as soon as we get the opportunity to do so early in the next Congress, we are committed to moving both the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Robert Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act so we can end the era of voter suppression in America once and for all.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe right to vote is foundational to our democracy,\u201d said House Democratic Caucus Vice Chair Ted Lieu. \u201cUnfortunately, communities of color are often targeted by voter suppression laws designed to dissuade people from casting their votes. As we head into a national election in November, it is essential to ensure all Americans have access to the ballot box. I am pleased to stand alongside my House Democratic colleagues to push back against voter suppression efforts. Thank you to Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Nanette Barrag\u00e1n, Vice Chair of Policy Darren Soto and Leader Hakeem Jeffries for gathering advocates and stakeholders to discuss pressing voting rights issues facing Hispanic communities ahead of the presidential election.\u201d\n\nIn addition to Vice Chair of Policy Soto and Chair Barrag\u00e1n, the following Members of Congress were present at the roundtable:\n\nHouse Democratic Caucus Leader Hakeem Jeffries\n\nHouse Democratic Caucus Vice Chair Ted Lieu\n\nCHC Vice Chair of Member Engagement Tony C\u00e1rdenas\n\nCHC Vice Chair of Communications Norma Torres\n\nCHC Whip Sylvia Garcia\n\nCHC Freshman Representative Andrea Salinas\n\nRep. Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez\n\nRep. Jes\u00fas \"Chuy\" Garc\u00eda\n\nRep. Delia Ramirez\n\nThe roundtable was attended by the following Biden-Harris Administration officials:\n\nBen Hovland, Chair, U.S. Election Assistance Commission\n\nRochelle Garza, Chair, U.S. Commission on Civil Rights\n\nAnn Lewis, Director of Technology Transformation Services, U.S. General Services Administration\n\nThe roundtable was also attended by the following stakeholders:\n\nJose Artemio Arreola, Director of Communications at Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights \"ICIRR\"\n\nRoberta Braga, Founder and Executive Director at Digital Democracy Institute of the Americas (DDIA)\n\nAnais Carmona, Director of Congressional Affairs at Microsoft\n\nSian I. Du\u2019Prey, Midwest Programs Director at Hispanic Federation\n\nValerio Martinelli, Legislative Director at NALEO Educational Fund\n\nRebecca Mears, Director for Democracy at Center for American Progress\n\nChristina Morales, Texas State Representative, House District 145\n\nLiliana Ranon, Vice President of External Affairs at the National Association of Broadcasters\n\nMichael Rios, Senior Data Scientist at UCLA Voting Rights Project\n\nLourdes M. Rosado, President & General Counsel at LatinoJustice PRLDEF\n\nGabriel Sanchez, Senior Fellow/Professor at the University of New Mexico, Brookings Institution\n\nAndrea Senteno, Regional Counsel at MALDEF\n\nDr. Ray Serrano, National Director of Research and Policy at League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)\n\nMarcos Vilar, Executive Director at Alianza for Progress", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-frederica-wilson-s-statement-on-the-iranian-missile-attacks-on-israel", "Congresswoman Frederica Wilson's Statement on the Iranian Missile Attacks on Israel", "2024-10-01", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congresswoman Wilson released the following statement on the Iranian Missile Attacks on Israel:\n\n\"The United States must remain committed to the security of the people of Israel, and Iran's attack on the civilians of Israel is unconscionable. Iran must stand down. The Biden-Harris Administration has been working around the clock to achieve a diplomatic solution to the conflict in the region, but today's attack by Iran sets back our united effort to end this war.\n\n\"In the face of these attacks, we must stand with Israel because when Israel is strong, America is strong. My continued hope is that we can de-escalate the war in the Middle East and reach a ceasefire deal that brings back the hostages and paves the path for long-term peace and security in the region.\n\n\"My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Israel tonight, and I will continue to monitor the situation.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3257", "Florida Democrats Support Brightline Employees\u2019 Right to Organize", "2024-09-30", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington DC \u2013 Today, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) led all eight Democratic Members of the Florida House delegation in the following statement in support of Brightline employees\u2019 right to organize:\n\n\u201cSince 1926, the Railway Labor Act has protected rail workers and their right to form a union and collective bargain \u2013 a core principle we all unequivocally support. With the news of employees working onboard Brightline trains from Miami to Orlando seeking to organize with the Transport Workers Union (TWU), we reaffirm and publicly support the right and ability to organize with the National Mediation Board as intended under the Railway Labor Act.\n\nWe know union workers built the middle class and support critical industries across the state of Florida and the country. We all look forward to continuing to work with and fight for the workers and unions that keep Florida\u2019s economy moving and growing - which is why we strongly support workers\u2019 right to organize and collectively bargain.\u201d\n\nRep. Wasserman Schultz was joined by Florida Democratic colleagues Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14), Ranking Member of Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Darren Soto (FL-09), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), and Jared Moskowitz (FL-23).\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3256", "Wasserman Schultz, Owens Introduce Bill to Protect Rights of Crime Victims, Prevent Repeat of Epstein Impunity", "2024-09-26", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington DC \u2013 Yesterday, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) and Burgess Owens (UT-4) introduced the bipartisan Courtney Wild Reinforcing Crime Victims' Rights Act to ensure victims of crime are treated with dignity, have the support they need while navigating criminal proceedings, and avoid further victimization.\n\nThe Courtney Wild Reinforcing Crime Victims' Rights Act was spurred by Wild's lawsuit that asserted the rights of victims who fell prey to Jeffrey Epstein and were kept in the dark as federal prosecutors hashed out a secret and shockingly lenient plea deal. Wild fought in court for over 10 years before a Federal District Court finally declared that her rights, and the rights of other victims were violated under the Crime Victims' Rights Act (CVRA). However, in April 2020, the Eleventh Circuit of Appeals rejected her lawsuit, in part because the federal government never filed charges against Epstein, so due to ambiguities in the law, the CVRA was never triggered.\n\nThis legislation would empower the Attorney General to implement the necessary reforms to ensure that all crime victims are afforded their rights under the CRVA. These reforms include the clarification that victims have the right to be informed by federal prosecutors of any plea or pretrial agreement that could impact their ability to secure justice and requiring the court to order a remedy if a victim\u2019s rights have been violated, among other reforms.\n\nU.S. Reps. Jim Costa (CA-21) and Lois Frankel (FL-22) joined as original cosponsors.\n\nThe following organizations have endorsed this legislation: Courtney Wild (survivor-advocate), Brad Edwards, and Paul Cassell (Wild\u2019s Lawyers); Network for Victim Recovery of DC (NVRDC), National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC), National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA), Victims\u2019 Rights Law Center (VRLC), National Alliance to End Sexual Violence (NAESV), and the National Crime Victim Law Institute (NCVLI).\n\n\u201cCourtney Wild and other victims of Jeffrey Epstein have been wrongly denied standing to invoke their rights. This legislation would fulfill the original intent of the CVRA and prevent such gross miscarriages of injustice from being repeated,\u201d said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. \u201cCrime victims deserve dignity and adequate support rather than further victimization at the discretion of federal prosecutors. Based on cases like Courtney's, this bill is necessary to ensure there is no ambiguity in the law and all crime victims are afforded the rights they have always deserved.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Courtney Wild case exposed glaring gaps in our justice system\u2014a web of legal loopholes and procedural barriers that prevent victims from sharing their voices and downplays the horrors they\u2019ve faced, particularly when powerful people are involved. Thanks to Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz's tireless advocacy for this bipartisan effort, we can ensure that no victim is forced to navigate the justice system in silence again,\u201d said Rep. Owens\n\n\u201cJeffrey Epstein\u2019s victims were kept in the dark as a sweetheart deal was hashed out, allowing a prolific sexual predator to go free with just a slap on the wrist. This bill ensures a more victim-centered process so that such a miscarriage of justice never happens again,\u201d said Rep. Frankel.\n\n\u201cAs the co-founder of the Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus, I am proud to support this legislation. It is imperative that we make necessary reforms to the Crime Victims Rights Act to ensure that victims receive the support they deserve and have their voices heard in the justice system,\u201d said Rep. Costa.\n\n\"The current CVRA leaves most victims without legal representation and without any real recourse or remedy for injustice. This amendment is crucial for the advancement of victim's rights in the United States,\" said Courtney Wild, survivor-advocate.\n\n\u201cWe are extremely grateful for Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) and Congressman Burgess Owens\u2019s (R-UT) leadership on the Courtney Wild Reinforcing Crime Victims' Rights Act. This bill would ensure the Crime Victims' Rights Act (CVRA) provides equitable and meaningful rights to survivors of crime,\u201d said Bridgette Stumpf, co-founder and executive director of Network for Victim Recovery of DC (NVRDC). \u201cAdditionally, this bill would ensure consistency in how victims experience the criminal legal system and strengthen access to independent crime victims' counsel--creating an environment of accountability within the criminal process.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe National Center for Victims of Crime proudly fought side by side with then-Senator Biden to pass the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) 30 years ago. It is now our privilege and honor to stand with two incredible Representatives, Rep. Schultz and Rep. Owens, as they take up the battle for victims through the Courtney Wild Reinforcing Crime Victims\u2019 Rights Act. This crucial act expands VAWA and VOCA in protecting victims\u2019 dignity, not only by ensuring that crime victims\u2019 rights are enforced, but also by providing accountability and remedies when those rights are violated. We thank Rep. Schulz and Rep. Owens for their work on this crucial bill, and we commit to advocating for and serving victims across the nation. Only when victims\u2019 rights are automatic and unquestioned will our victory be achieved,\u201d said Renee Williams, Esq., executive director of the National Center for the Victims of Crime (NCVC).\n\n\u201cThe Courtney Wild Reinforcing Crime Victims\u2019 Rights Act is an incredible step forward in protecting the rights of federal victims of crime. NOVA commends Ms. Wild for courageously advocating for federal victims of crime to be treated fairly, respectfully and with dignity throughout the criminal justice process. We thank Ms. Wild and U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) and Burgess Owens (R-UT) for championing this landmark bill,\u201d said Claire Ponder Selib, Executive Director, National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA).\n\n\"Twenty years ago the CVRA was passed with the intention of making crime victims meaningful participants in criminal justice by ensuring that they have rights from the time of their victimization and that they have access to attorneys at no cost to help protect those rights. We are so grateful to Representative Wasserman Schultz for continuing to push to make these promises a reality,\" said Meg Garvin, Executive Director of the National Crime Victim Law Institute.\n\nRead the entire bill here. A one-pager on the bill is available here.\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404690", "Rep. Castor, House Democrats Prevent FOURTH MAGA Republican Shutdown Threat Since Start of GOP Majority", "2024-09-25", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement after voting to pass legislation to avoid a MAGA government shutdown and extend current government funding through December 20, 2024:\n\n\u201cToday, House Democrats stepped in to provide the votes needed to avoid a government shutdown after extreme MAGA Republicans in Congress refused to pass a budget.\n\n\u201cThis is no way to govern, but the last thing Florida families need is a government shutdown as Floridians prepare for Hurricane Helene and its difficult aftermath. I\u2019m disappointed that 11 of my Republican colleagues from Florida were among the 82 Republicans who voted against the government in the face of a natural disaster. MAGA Republicans have exploited each funding deadline to play political games and force their radical Project 2025 policies on Americans while American families\u2019 livelihoods hang in the balance.\n\n\u201cHouse Democrats stand ready to work with Republicans to pass appropriations bills that reflect the bipartisan framework they committed to, and that lower costs, grow the middle class and protect our freedoms.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-frederica-wilson-s-statement-on-the-continued-resolution-to-keep-government-open-until-december", "Congresswoman Frederica Wilson's Statement on the Continued Resolution to Keep Government Open Until December", "2024-09-25", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson released the following statement on the Continued Resolution to Keep Government Open Until December, to which Congresswoman Wilson voted yes to keep government open:\n\n\"Today, Democrats and Republicans came together to prevent a government shutdown that would have hurt millions of Americans by passing a continuing resolution to keep the government open until December. But before we celebrate, let's take a moment to address how we got here.\n\n\"Last week, House Democrats stood strong to block the extreme MAGA Republicans' efforts to inject toxic provisions into our funding bills. These poison pills would have implemented parts of Trump's Project 2025, shortchanged veterans, and harmed the middle class. Make no mistake, the only reason we're passing a continuing resolution today instead of months ago is because MAGA Republicans deliberately chose to derail the process.\n\n\"Months ago, Democrats and Republicans had already reached a bipartisan agreement to fund the government and avoid this last-minute scramble that people assume is normal in Congress. But instead of honoring that agreement, House Republicans, ordered by President Trump and his political ambitions ahead of the election, decided to stall the process\u2014putting their own political interests above the needs of the American people.\n\n\"This didn't have to happen. Even with this three-month extension, we could have passed a full budget by now if MAGA Republicans had been willing to put aside politics and work with Democrats for the good of the country.\n\n\"And let's be clear: this isn't just about Democrats pointing fingers. Look at today's vote. Once again, it was Democrats who stepped up today. Once again, it was Democrats who provided the majority of votes to keep the government open. Once again, Democrats have proven that we are committed to solving problems for the American people and delivering real results, while many House Republicans\u2014despite being the majority\u2014voted to shut the government down.\n\n\"So, while I am thankful that we've kept the government open, we didn't need to be pushed to the edge. This process was delayed and nearly derailed by the extremism of MAGA Republicans.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rails-subcommittee-ranking-member-rep-wilson-transportation-and-infrastructure-committee-ranking-member-rep-larsen-brightline-president-and-us-federal-railroad-administration-focus-on-rail-safety", "Rails Subcommittee Ranking Member Rep. Wilson, Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Rep. Larsen, Brightline President, and U.S. Federal Railroad Administration Focus on Rail Safety", "2024-09-25", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2014 Today, Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee Ranking Member Frederica Wilson, Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Larsen, President of Brightline Florida Patrick Goddard, and the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration Administrator Amit Bose remain committed to promoting rail safety. For that reason, Ranking Member Wilson introduced a Resolution to name the week of September 23rd through September 29th, \"See Tracks? Think Train! Week\" to reduce highway-rail grade crossing-related incidents, fatalities, and injuries.\n\n\"Every week, we see new headlines of folks getting hurt in grade crossing accidents across my community and the nation. These deaths are preventable, and we must do more to help prevent these accidents and raise awareness for grade crossing incidents,\" Ranking Member Frederica S. Wilson said. \"That is why I am making this week \"See Tracks? Think Train! Week\". Everyone across the private and public sectors doesn't want these deaths to happen. That is why we are all united to raise awareness for grade crossings, and I, along with Transportation Democrats, are united to pass bipartisan legislation to reduce grade crossings.\"\n\nAccording to the Federal Railroad Administration, highway-rail grade crossings lead to more than 2,000 incidents and 200 fatalities each year. Highway-rail grade crossing and trespassing incidents constituted approximately 96 percent of all rail-related fatalities in 2023.\n\n\"Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, communities like Blaine and Burlington in Northwest Washington have the funding they need to improve safety at grade crossings,\" Ranking Member Rick Larsen said. \"That said, Congress must do more to prevent the nearly 2,200 grade crossing accidents that happen across the country each year. During \"See Track, Think Train!\" grade crossing safety awareness week, T&I Democrats reaffirm our commitment to passing bipartisan legislation to help prevent accidents at rail grade crossings in communities in Washington state and across the country.\"\n\n\"Rail safety requires many voices to amplify the message, and we appreciate Rep. Frederica Wilson and Rep. Rick Larsen taking leading roles in raising awareness for See Tracks? Think Train! Week and Operation Lifesaver,\" said Patrick Goddard, President for Brightline Florida. \"Incidents around grade crossings and tracks can be avoided if we all recognize that a few extra seconds isn't worth your life.\"\n\n\"The Federal Railroad Administrator's top priority is safety. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, FRA has issued new rules, drawn attention to safety concerns, conducted safety audits, invested in rail safety upgrades, and undertaken new, focused efforts to keep people working on, living near, and traveling along railroads safe,\" said FRA Administrator Amit Bose. \"We cannot accept business as usual when it comes to rail safety, and we invite others to join us to build on actions already taken and push to do even more to make rail safer.\"\n\n\"We know all too well that highway-rail grade crossing-related injuries are far too frequent and preventable,\" said Congressman Hank Johnson. \"As a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Rail Subcommittee, I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation led by Ranking Members Wilson and Larsen to educate our constituents about rail safety to prevent these injuries and deaths from taking place on grade crossings.\"\n\n\"Rail safety is a critical issue for so many communities, including my own in Western Pennsylvania,\" said Congressman Chris Deluzio. \"Ninety-five percent of my constituents live within five miles of the tracks, and raising awareness about safety near grade crossings can help save lives in my district and across the country. Thank you to Ranking Members Wilson and Larsen for leading this effort. I look forward to keeping up the push in the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to make freight rail safer for all of us.\"\n\n\"Since the tragic train derailment in East Palestine last year happened just miles from my district, rail safety has been top of mind for people in our communities. No one wants to see train accidents or derailments in their own backyards. I'm glad to partner with Rep. Wilson to introduce this resolution to increase awareness about the importance of rail safety and emphasize why Congress must immediately pass rail safety legislation like my bipartisan RAIL Act,\" said Congresswoman Emilia Sykes.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404689", "U.S. Rep. Castor: Amtrak\u2019s Floridian Route Brings Comfortable, Convenient, Sustainable Travel Option from Tampa Bay to Chicago", "2024-09-24", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "TAMPA, FL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) celebrated Amtrak\u2019s opening of a new route offering daily direct round-trip travel between Chicago and Miami with a stop in Tampa. The Floridian combines Amtrak\u2019s Capitol Limited and Silver Star routes to offer travelers an enhanced travel experience for a limited time starting Sunday, November 10.\n\n\u201cThe launch of the Floridian is welcome news for Tampa Bay travelers who need options as our economy grows,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cThis exciting new route will help Amtrak modernize its infrastructure while continuing to provide exceptional service to passengers.\u201d\n\nCastor led the effort to include Tampa\u2019s Union Station as a stop along the route after it was bypassed in the original proposed route, writing to Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose to encourage the Tampa Bay region\u2019s inclusion in the final route.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3753", "Reps. Frankel, Miller, Morelle, Bilirakis, Magaziner Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing National Fall Prevention Awareness Week", "2024-09-24", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Lois Frankel", "F000462", "frankel.house.gov", "frankel", "https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Reps. Lois Frankel (D-FL-22), Carol Miller (R-WV-1), Joe Morelle (D-NY-25), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), and Seth Magaziner (D-RI-2) introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing September 22 \u2013 28, 2024 as National Fall Prevention Awareness Week. The resolution seeks to raise awareness, encourage the prevention of falls among older adults, and highlight evidence-based programs that help reduce fall risks and save the lives of seniors.\n\n\u201cWith over 365,000 seniors in Palm Beach County, this issue is near and dear to my heart,\u201d said Rep. Frankel. \u201cFalls are the leading cause of injury among adults over 65. They can be debilitating, heartbreaking, and expensive, but the good news is they are preventable! This year, we\u2019re marking National Fall Prevention Awareness Week to spread the word that tools and resources are available to help prevent falls before they happen, ensuring our seniors can live with the safety and dignity they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s no secret the U.S. population is aging, and it\u2019s important to ensure there are enough resources and education for seniors as they are more at risk of falling. By designating a National Fall Prevention Awareness Week, we are bringing awareness to this important issue that affects many of our constituents. I\u2019m glad to join my colleagues in sponsoring this resolution to help prevent falls and protect seniors as they age,\u201d said Rep. Miller.\n\n\u201cAs our loved ones get older, we must ensure they have the resources and support to age in place safely, independently, and with dignity,\u201d said Rep. Morelle. \u201cFalls can be scary and have serious health consequences for older individuals. It\u2019s critical we do everything we can to promote fall prevention to help save lives and give seniors and their loved ones some well-deserved piece of mind. I\u2019m proud to join my colleagues in support of this resolution, and I look forward to working with them to secure resources and support for older Americans.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs someone who has experienced a fall that resulted in broken ribs, I am very familiar with the pain that often comes from a fall,\u201d said Rep. Bilirakis. \u201cThe risks associated with falling are especially high for seniors over the age of 65. According to the CDC, 36 million seniors fall each year. Tragically, these falls result in 34,000 deaths and three million serious injuries that require an emergency room visit. The good news is that falls are preventable and do not need to be an inevitable part of aging. I encourage all seniors and their loved ones to learn more about how to stay safe and active by taking advantage of the fall prevention programs offered in their community. Local Area Agency on Aging organizations have wonderful resources that can help save lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cFalls can be serious\u2014and even deadly\u2014for older Americans, and Congress must consider this issue as seriously as we would for any other medical condition,\u201d said Rep. Magaziner. \u201cDesignating a National Fall Prevention Awareness Week will help bring attention to this critical issue and support programs that protect seniors, reduce falls and save lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe cost of falls among older adults is staggering: $80 billion/year, and untold suffering and pain,\u201d said Ramsey Alwin, President and CEO of the National Council on Aging. \u201cWe welcome this Congressional resolution to draw attention to the fact that falls can be prevented. There are proven, cost-effective ways to reduce fall risk. We are grateful to Rep. Frankel for championing this issue and her steadfast leadership throughout the Capitol and across party lines.\u201d\n\nEach year, 14 million older Americans experience falls, resulting in 3 million emergency room visits and 39,000 tragic deaths. Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults aged 65 and older, with non-fatal falls costing our health care system $80 billion annually. Seniors can reduce their risk of falling through basic home modifications, daily exercises, and other simple precautions.\n\nThe Members were joined by 24 original cosponsors: Reps. Colin Allred (D-TX-32), Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (D-CA-44), Ami Bera (D-CA-6), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Kathy Castor (D-FL-14), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO-5), Don Davis (D-NC-1), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-4), Ra\u00fal Grijalva (D-AZ-7), Jahana Hayes (D-CT-5), Henry C. \u201cHank\u201d Johnson, Jr. (D-GA-4), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-9), Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), Doris Matsui (D-CA-7), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-At Large), Mark Pocan (D-WI-2), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-9), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Darren Soto (D-FL-9), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24).\n\nThe resolution is supported by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and AARP.\n\nFor full text of the resolution, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3251", "House Democrats Support Michigan AG Nessel\u2019s Efforts to Protect Students, Reject Unfair Accusations of Bias", "2024-09-24", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington DC \u2013 Today, 21 U.S. House of Representative Members released the following statement in response to criticism of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel\u2019s handling of antisemitic campus crimes:\n\n\u201cDana Nessel has distinguished herself as a just, discerning, and effective Attorney General. Michigan voters selected her to keep all communities safe, empowering her to faithfully exercise discretion and enforce the law.\n\n\u201cThat\u2019s exactly what she has done in the cases of anti-Israel campus protesters as well as counter-protestors accused of violent acts that go far beyond protected speech. Those charged with criminal conduct will enjoy the same rights of due process as anyone else. Casting doubt on Attorney General Nessel\u2019s impartiality or implying these cases are being handled unfairly due to her religious background is antisemitic, deeply disturbing, and unacceptable.\n\n\u201cElected officials are rightfully held to high standards, but we owe it to our constituents to model methods of disagreement that do not invoke hateful tropes or false charges of unfair bias.\u201d\n\nAmong the Members signing the statement that was co-led by U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-15) and Haley Stevens (MI-11), were Reps.: Elissa Slotkin (MI-07), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Brad Schneider (IL-10), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Kathy Manning (NC-06), Norma J. Torres (CA-35), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Ritchie Torres, (NY-15), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Tom Suozzi (NY-07), Susie Lee, (NV-03), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Steve Cohen (TN-09) and Donald Norcross (NJ-01).\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3253", "Bill to Study Transfer of Weitzman Museum Honoring American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Passes House of Representatives", "2024-09-24", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Mike Turner (OH-10), Brendan Boyle (PA-2), and Max Miller (OH-7) announced that their bill, H.R. 7764, passed the House of Representatives late last night. H.R. 7764, the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act, takes a critical step in transferring the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, a highly regarded museum dedicated to the history, culture, and contributions of Jewish Americans, to the Smithsonian Institution. The Weitzman, if transferred, would serve as the Smithsonian\u2019s only museum dedicated specifically to the stories of Jewish Americans. Sen. Bob Casey (PA) leads the companion bill in the Senate.\n\n\u201cJewish communities have made astounding contributions to America\u2019s noble experiment in building a more perfect union. Sharing those achievements with everyone is what the late Pennsylvania Sen. Arlen Specter and I had in mind when we created Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) nearly two decades ago. Educating all Americans, from all over the country, about these amazing Jewish impacts on our nation\u2019s history, not only raises awareness but helps dispel harmful prejudices about our community,\u201d said Wasserman Schultz. \u201cTaking this critical step to welcome the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History into the larger Smithsonian family would bring that vision closer to reality. This powerful institutional integration signals a strong commitment to address the dramatic rise in antisemitism by helping amplify the myriad ways Jewish Americans enriched a nation who\u2019s very founding, fittingly, traces back to Philadelphia, the Weitzman Museum\u2019s home city.\u201d\n\n\u201cTonight, we took one step closer to the Weitzman Museum becoming part of the world class Smithsonian Institution Museum family,\u201d said Boyle. \u201cThe Weitzman is the only museum in the nation dedicated exclusively to exploring and interpreting the American Jewish experience. The Weitzman's role in telling the tale of our nation\u2019s history is significant. Bringing the Weitzman Museum fully into the Smithsonian family would give it expanded access to not only artifacts and documents, but robust educational resources, expertise and staff training to aid in the ongoing mission to preserve and promote the culture of American Jews. I encourage my Senate colleagues to pass this bill without delay.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia serves as a powerful reminder of the contributions that Jewish Americans have made to the fabric of the United States,\u201d said Turner. \u201cBy bringing this museum and its collections into the Smithsonian, Congress will ensure that the story of Jewish Americans is shared with the widest possible audience.\u201d\n\n\u201cNow more than ever it is imperative that Jewish-American Heritage be celebrated and exhibited at the world's largest museum, education, and research complex, the Smithsonian Institution,\u201d said Miller. \u201cI am pleased to see this bill pass the House of Representatives, especially as we see a rise in antisemitism worldwide.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt pains me to see that antisemitism in the United States has surged to what the FBI Director has described as \u2018historic levels.\u2019 We must do more to show the invaluable role Jewish Americans have played in our nation\u2019s story. Now is the time for the Smithsonian to explore adding an American Jewish History Museum to its roster. The Weitzman Museum should be seriously considered as an option to fully recognize and share the whole story of American Jewish History as our preeminent institution dedicated to American Jewish history. I thank Representatives Wasserman Schultz and Boyle for leading us forward by introducing this bill and look forward to my colleagues in the Senate taking this bill up in their chamber,\u201d said Committee on House Administration Ranking Member Joe Morelle.\n\n\u201cWe are elated that the bill has reached this important milestone,\u201d said Phil Darivoff, Trustee and Chair Emeritus of The Weitzman. \u201cThe remarkable bipartisan support which enabled this bill to pass thanks to the leadership of Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Mike Turner, Brendan Boyle, and Max Miller\u2014along with nearly 100 co-sponsors on both sides of the aisle\u2014demonstrates to all Americans the significant role that Jewish Americans have played in our nation and how critical it is to teach these stories to counter antisemitism, bigotry, and hate.\"\n\nThe Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act would create a commission to study the potential transfer of the Weitzman Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, which is the necessary first step to put the Weitzman Museum on a path toward acquisition by the Smithsonian. Specifically:\n\n\u00b7 The commission will consist of eight members, with two members appointed by the majority and minority leaders of each chamber..\n\n\u00b7 The commission will write a report to Congress with a recommendation on whether the Weitzman Museum should be transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. The report will also detail the current collections of the Museum; the impact of the Museum on educational and governmental efforts to study and counter antisemitism; the financial assets and liabilities of the Museum and costs of operating and maintaining the Museum; the governance and organizational structure of the Museum should it be transferred; and the impact such a transfer would have on the Smithsonian Institution.\n\n\u00b7 The commission will not receive any federal funding and will accept private contributions to pay for its expenses.\n\nRead the entire bill here.\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-cherfilus-mccormick-and-haiti-caucus-co-chairs-stand", "Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Stand In Solidarity With Haitian Community And Introduce Resolution Condemning Anti-Haitian Attacks", "2024-09-20", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), and Congressman Maxwell Frost (FL-10) joined colleagues and advocates to stand together in solidarity with Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio and across America, and to demand accountability for the harmful and false narratives perpetuated by Republicans. Additionally, the Members announced the introduction of legislation to condemn the racism and bigotry Haitian immigrant communities have faced in the aftermath of the GOP\u2019s disinformation campaign and to celebrate the humanity and contributions of the Haitian community.\n\n\u201cImmigrants, including Haitians, came to the United States in pursuit of the American dream. When family-owned businesses in Springfield, Ohio were struggling to fill positions and keep production running, Haitian immigrants stepped up. These are hardworking people who have greatly contributed to the economy and have revived Springfield after decades of turmoil,\u201d said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. \u201cPolitics should not divide our communities. It is our responsibility to protect our communities from hateful rhetoric and work to provide them with the resources they need to thrive.\u201d\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the Congressional Black Caucus, I want to express our deepest sympathies to the community of Springfield, Ohio, and others, who in recent days have felt targeted, and who are forced to live in fear because of a lie perpetuated by Donald Trump and JD Vance. This racist rhetoric and misinformation is dangerous and needs to come to an end. We are calling on all Americans to embrace fairness and unity and to reject the politics of division and fear,\u201d said Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Steven Horsford.\n\n\u201cAt a time when the Haitian people are suffering through a series of devastating, catastrophic crises, it is utterly contemptible that America\u2019s most powerful would capitalize on the pain of those seeking safety in this country to amplify their anti-immigrant rhetoric. From Springfield, Ohio, to New York's 9th District, to every corner of this nation where Haitian immigrants reside, these dangerous, disproven lies have brought real harm to those only seeking better lives for themselves and their families,\u201d said Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke.\u201cThe extreme forces spreading this disinformation demand more than our universal condemnation, but a moral and humanitarian promise that we will not abandon our Haitian American neighbors to their cruelty. I am proud to stand alongside my colleagues and our many like-minded allies to reject the hatred of powerful politicians, billionaires, and extreme activists. Make no mistake \u2013 we will always rise to protect the right of immigrants to this nation to find their own American Dream.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe flagrant lies about the Haitian community perpetuated and amplified by Trump and Vance are disgraceful, dehumanizing, and outright dangerous \u2013 and we must call them out,\u201d said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Co-Chair of the House Haiti Caucus. \u201cAs Congresswoman for the third largest Haitian diaspora community in the country, I want our Haitian neighbors to know that we see them and we stand with them. I was proud to join my Haiti Caucus colleagues to condemn this hate and unveil a resolution to celebrate and affirm the dignity, humanity, and contributions of our Haitian families. Congressional intent is powerful, and Congress must pass it without delay.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe baseless and racist attacks against innocent Haitian migrants and Haitian Americans cannot go unchecked. These are lies that only seek to hurt Haitian people and help MAGA extremists divide our country so they can win an election. I am proud to introduce this resolution alongside Reps. Clarke, Pressley, and Cherfilus-McCormick to forcefully condemn these attacks and send a clear message that this rhetoric is disgusting, hateful, and wrong,\u201d said Congressman Maxwell Frost. \u201cThe Haitian community is beautiful, diverse, and an important part of the fabric of our country. Every single member of Congress regardless of party should be able to stand firmly in support of our resolution to condemn any and all hate against the Haitian community.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe campaign to denigrate Haitians as unfit to be in America Is a campaign against all immigrants, against decency, and against persons of goodwill who wish to live peacefully in a diverse and culturally rich America. The hate-mongering has no other purpose than to divide and conquer by scaring people away from the voting booth. We won\u2019t be deterred,\u201d said Jocelyn McCalla, Senior Policy Advisor for the Haitian-American Foundation for Democracy.\n\n\u201cThe recent threats against Haitians in Springfield highlight a disturbing trend toward division rather than unity. I call upon the officials in Ohio to provide support and protection for Haitians and to stand against hatred. We urge our allies to join us in this fight for justice and solidarity for all communities facing discrimination,\u201d said Mary Estim\u00e9-Irvin, Chairwoman, National Haitian American Elected Officials Network.\n\n\u201cThis narrative about Haitian migrants that we are seeing today is based on racist policies that saw the US government detain Black Haitians in Florida and Guantanamo Bay while at the same time admitting white Cubans into the US. The dehumanization of Black migrants is a constant thread in this country\u2019s history \u2013 and today we see similar racial inequities with Ukrainians vs Black and brown migrants at the US southern border and within the country,\u201d said Ronald Claude, BAJI\u2019s Policy Director. \u201cThe question we must ask ourselves is why are Black migrants treated as a burden for this country while white migrants are welcomed?\u201d\n\n\u201cThe African Diaspora, including Haitian immigrant community has been instrumental in shaping America's economic, cultural, and social landscape. We all stand in solidarity with their pain. Haitians contributed to the emancipation of African people. They continue to play a vital role in building a brighter future for our Springfield and our nation. We are urging all U.S political leaders to run their campaign with integrity, dignity and respect. It is critical that we continue to protect our democracy and the great values that America symbolizes,\u201d said Princess Philomina Desmond, Chair, Virginia Africa Diaspora Caucus, Board Member, African Diaspora for Good Governance.\n\nClick here to see photos from the press conference.\n\nClick here for the full text of H.Res.1473 - To condemn racism and bigotry towards Haitian people, to celebrate the vast contributions of people of Haitian descent to the United States, to condemn the spread of misinformation, and to call on Americans to affirm our shared humanity.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404681", "U.S. Reps. Castor, Caraveo Introduce Bill to \u201cKeep Kids Covered\u201d to Improve Outcomes, Lower Costs and Support Families Across America", "2024-09-19", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Today, U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14) and Yadira Caraveo (CO-08) introduced legislation to provide continuous health care coverage for eligible children in Medicaid and CHIP. The Keep Kids Covered Act would expand on new 12-month continuous eligibility protections for children, and would provide continuous coverage for children until age 6 - a crucial time for their development - and for a 24-month period for children up to age 19.\n\nContinuous eligibility requires states to cover children in CHIP and Medicaid for a defined period of time without interruption, regardless of changes in circumstances. Access to consistent, high-quality coverage is critical to children\u2019s development and well-being, especially in their early years, allowing them to grow into healthy and productive adults. Not only does CE improve short- and long-term health coverage, it reduces churn and financial barriers to care, promotes health equity, and lowers costs. Today, too many children who are eligible for Medicaid or CHIP lose coverage for procedural reasons, like missing paperwork. The Keep Kids Covered Act would ensure kids and families across the country have access to the lifesaving care they need and deserve.\n\n\u201cIn Florida, innocent children pay the price when politicians rip health coverage away,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cThe Keep Kids Covered Act will ensure eligible kids across the country may access reliable, stable Medicaid and CHIP coverage so they can live happy, healthy lives. Research has shown that children with health coverage are healthier, do better in school, and grow into more successful adults. I\u2019m grateful to my colleague Rep. Yadira Caraveo and child and family advocates for their partnership and support of this critical legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a pediatrician, I saw firsthand in clinic how families face disruptions in their children\u2019s health care coverage, missing the very essential right to live a healthy life and become a successful adult,\u201d said Rep. Caraveo. \u201cI am proud to bring the voices of my little patients from Colorado to Washington DC and make sure children enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP receive uninterrupted health coverage. This commonsense solution would make healthcare more accessible for kids in Colorado.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful to Representatives Castor and Caraveo for their leadership to ensure our nation\u2019s children have reliable access to health care,\u201d said Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ). \u201cThe Keep Kids Covered Act would build on the progress we\u2019ve made by expanding continuous eligibility for children on Medicaid and CHIP. It would ensure young children have continuity of care until they turn age 6\u2014the period before they start kindergarten and when recommended screenings and check-ups are most frequent\u2014and provide two years of continuous coverage after that. This is an important step forward in preventing unnecessary lapses in coverage for all people on Medicaid and CHIP.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen children experience disruptions in their health care coverage, they miss out on the vital care and services they need to grow up healthy and thrive. As its name states, the Keep Kids Covered Act would help ensure children enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP do not face gaps in coverage and give families the peace of mind they deserve. The American Academy of Pediatrics applauds Reps. Kathy Castor (D-Fla.) and Yadira Caraveo (D-Colo.) for introducing this important legislation and calls for its swift advancement,\u201d said Benjamin Hoffman, MD, FAAP, American Academy of Pediatrics President.\n\n\u201cFirst Focus Campaign for Children is proud to support the Keep Kids Covered Act. Early childhood continuous eligibility ensures that no child in poverty goes without healthcare in their most formative years, setting them up to live full and healthy lives. Children need consistent coverage to ensure that any illnesses, health conditions, or developmental delays are detected and can be treated swiftly to minimize long-term harm. Continuous eligibility was a historic success during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the loss of that protection has caused 5.5 million children to lose coverage during the unwinding process. This legislation rights that wrong and makes a proven success permanent. It\u2019s a commonsense policy with lifelong positive impacts,\u201d said Bruce Lesley, President, First Focus Campaign for Children.\n\n\"Ensuring continuous eligibility for people enrolled in Medicaid has been a central priority of ACAP's policy agenda for more than two decades,\" said Meg Murray, CEO of Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP). \"Representative Castor and Caraveo's introduction of the Keep Kids Covered Act builds on the previous work of continuous eligibility for children in Medicaid and sends a clear and simple message: none of our nation\u2019s kids should miss out on needed health care because they don\u2019t have coverage.\"\n\n\u201cChildren\u2019s hospitals witness the critical role Medicaid and CHIP play in providing essential care to more than half of the children they treat, particularly those with serious and complex medical needs. The Keep Kids Covered Act addresses the pressing issue of coverage gaps that can disrupt this vital care, ensuring that no child\u2019s health suffers due to administrative hurdles. By providing continuous, multi-year coverage, this legislation offers much-needed stability and peace of mind to families facing challenging health circumstances. We commend Representatives Castor and Caraveo for their leadership in making sure all children have access to the consistent care they need to lead healthy, successful lives,\u201d said Matthew Cook, President and CEO of the Children\u2019s Hospital Association.\n\nIn Florida, the DeSantis Administration stripped between 500,000 and 600,000 children from their coverage during the Medicaid unwinding. He is also breaking the law by throwing Florida children off the state\u2019s CHIP program during the current-law 12-month continuous eligibility period. Legislation like the Keep Kids Covered Act would act as a bulwark against these harmful state policies.\n\nThe full bill text of the legislation can be viewed here.\n\nA one-page summary of the legislation is available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-maxwell-frost-and-senator-cory-booker-introduce-the-fair-future-act-to-support-successful-reentry-by-ending-housing-exclusion-for-people-with-prior-drug-convictions", "Congressman Maxwell Frost & Senator Cory Booker Introduce the Fair Future Act to Support Successful Reentry by Ending Housing Exclusion for People With Prior Drug Convictions", "2024-09-19", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Maxwell Frost", "F000476", "frost.house.gov", "frost", "https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Under Current Law, Americans Who Have Served Their Time and Paid Their Debt to Society for Certain Drug Convictions Are Being Denied Housing\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) have introduced new legislation, the Fair Future Act, to repeal an amendment to the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 that has led to permanent denial of rental housing to people with prior drug convictions regardless of the severity of their offenses or the length of time that has passed since their conviction.\n\nThe current law has meant that the over 9 million people who have been previously convicted of drug offenses in the United States can be denied rental housing \u2013 yet there are no restrictions for people convicted of murder or other violent crimes, which creates a difficult patchwork of laws for property owners to navigate.\n\n\"People who have served their time, repaid their debt to society, and are looking to re-enter our communities cannot do so when the deck is stacked against them,\" said Congressman Maxwell Frost. \"Housing is the foundation of a safe and secure life \u2013 yet outdated housing laws and conflicting state laws on marijuana mean that someone could go to jail, serve time, and be denied housing in one state, while someone carrying the same amount of marijuana in another state is abiding by the law. It's time we allow folks a fresh start and put an end to housing exclusion for folks who have paid for their crimes and are rebuilding their lives.\"\n\n\u201cNo one should be permanently denied a place to live because of a prior drug conviction,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cRight now, housing laws have deniedpeople with prior drug convictions the ability to live in rental housing and in turn, denied them a fair chance at reentering society. The Fair Future Act will eliminate this discriminatory barrier to housing and help us put an end to our nation\u2019s cycle of poverty and recidivism.\u201d \u201cNo one should be permanently denied a place to live because of a prior drug conviction,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cRight now, housing laws have denied people with prior drug convictions the ability to live in rental housing and in turn, denied them a fair chance at reentering society. The Fair Future Act will eliminate this discriminatory barrier to housing and help us put an end to our nation\u2019s cycle of poverty and recidivism.\u201d\n\nThe Fair Future Act was inspired in part by the personal testimony of people impacted by this flawed policy, like Yusuf Dahl, a Milwaukee native who served a five-and-a-half-year sentence and went on to become an outstanding member of society, receiving an Ivy League education and leading a center for entrepreneurship, only to be denied housing while attempting to rent a home for him and his family in Pennsylvania.\n\n\"The Fair Future Act is a common-sense reform that ensures housing applicants are judged by their income, credit history, and rental record\u2014not automatically denied by an algorithm based solely on a decades-old drug conviction,\" said Yusuf Dahl. \"Given housing's crucial role in economic mobility and stability in today's competitive rental market, the Fair Future Act offers a necessary fix to a federal policy that unfairly punishes formerly incarcerated individuals who have already paid their debt to society. When people have turned their lives around, we shouldn't keep them tethered to their past by denying them one of the most fundamental rights: the right to live where they choose.\"\n\nThe Fair Future Act has also been endorsed by the National Housing Law Project.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3249", "Wasserman Schultz and D\u00edaz-Balart Lead House Bill to Set $100 Million Reward for Arrest and Conviction of Nicol\u00e1s Maduro", "2024-09-19", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C .\u2013 Today, Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25) and Mario D\u00edaz-Balart (R-FL-26), co-chairs of the Congressional Venezuela Democracy Caucus, along with Representatives Chris Smith (R-NJ-4), Carlos A. Gim\u00e9nez (R-FL-28), Jenniffer Gonz\u00e1lez-Colon (PR-At-Large), Mar\u00eda Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27), Mike Waltz (R-FL-06), and Darren Soto (D-FL-09) introduced a bill to raise the U.S. Department of Justice's bounty on dictator Nicol\u00e1s Maduro from $15 million to $100 million. The increase would be funded by assets already seized from Maduro and his regime.\n\nThe reward would be paid out by the federal government using seized assets already being withheld from Maduro, officials of the Maduro regime and their co-conspirators, not taxpayer funds. According to the U.S. Attorney\u2019s Office in South Florida and its federal law enforcement partners who have brought dozens of criminal charges against high-level regime officials, asset seizures total approximately $450 million.\n\nThe Senate companion was introduced by U.S. Senators Rick Scott (FL) and Marco Rubio (FL).\n\n\u201cSuper-sizing the reward that leads to Maduro\u2019s conviction will reinforce the already-decisive actions taken by the Biden-Harris Administration to target the criminal enterprise behind Venezuela\u2019s election theft and the violent repression of its people,\u201d said Wasserman Schultz. \u201cThe Biden-Harris White House deftly marshaled swift international pressure onto the Maduro regime, expanded existing sanctions, and rallied global support around this reality: Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez won in a landslide and the Venezuelan people deserve to have their votes counted and rights respected. As Vice President Harris laid out emphatically in a recent letter, the United States 'will remain steadfast with the Venezuelan people in their fight for freedom.' This magnified reward for Maduro\u2019s arrest would amplify those efforts.\u201d\n\n\"For nearly two months since the July 28th presidential elections, in which the Venezuelan people overwhelmingly voted for President-elect Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez, the Maduro regime has only escalated its brutal repression. According to reports, arbitrary detentions, torture, and politically motivated persecution \u2013 have intensified under Maduro's oppressive rule.\n\nMaduro's regime is a criminal enterprise that fuels narco-terrorism, suppresses independent media, and violates human rights with impunity. Last year, I warned that the Biden-Harris Administration's appeasement of this dictatorship would only embolden Maduro. Lifting sanctions has endangered our national security, aiding a regime closely allied with dangerous adversaries like Russia, Iran, Cuba, and the PRC.\n\nInstead of easing sanctions, the Biden-Harris Administration should stand in solidarity with the Venezuelan people in their fight for freedom by increasing this bounty and strengthening sanctions,\" said D\u00edaz-Balart.\n\n####\n\nWasserman Schultz y D\u00edaz-Balart lideran esfuerzo bipartidista para establecer una recompensa de $100 millones por el arresto y condena de Nicol\u00e1s Maduro.\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Hoy los legisladores Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25) y Mario D\u00edaz-Balart (R-FL-26), copresidentes del Comit\u00e9 Parlamentario a favor de la Democracia en Venezuela, junto con los Representantes Chris Smith (R-NJ-4), Carlos A. Gim\u00e9nez (R-FL-28), Jenniffer Gonz\u00e1lez-Col\u00f3n (Puerto Rico), Mar\u00eda Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27), Mike Waltz (R-FL-06), y Darren Soto (D-FL-09) presentaron la Ley para Asegurar Oportunidades de Pago y Maximizar Recompensas por la Detenci\u00f3n de Funcionarios de Reg\u00edmenes Ileg\u00edtimos (Ley STOP MADURO). Esta legislaci\u00f3n aumentar\u00eda la recompensa del Departamento de Justicia de EE.UU. sobre el dictador Nicol\u00e1s Maduro de $15 millones a un m\u00e1ximo de $100 millones, por informaci\u00f3n que conduzca a su arresto y condena.\n\nLa recompensa ser\u00eda pagada por el gobierno federal utilizando activos incautados que ya est\u00e1n retenidos a Maduro, a funcionarios de su r\u00e9gimen y a sus c\u00f3mplices, sin utilizar fondos de los contribuyentes. Seg\u00fan la Oficina del Fiscal de EE.UU. en el Sur de Florida y sus socios federales de aplicaci\u00f3n de la ley, quienes han presentado decenas de cargos criminales contra altos funcionarios del r\u00e9gimen, las incautaciones de activos suman aproximadamente $450 millones.\n\nEl Proyecto del Ley compa\u00f1ero en el Senado fue presentado por los Senadores Rick Scott (R-FL) y Marco Rubio (R-FL).\n\n\u201cAumentar la recompensa que conduzca a la condena de Maduro reforzar\u00e1 las acciones ya decisivas adoptadas por la Administraci\u00f3n Biden-Harris para apuntar a la organizaci\u00f3n criminal detr\u00e1s del robo electoral de Venezuela y la represi\u00f3n violenta de su pueblo\u201d, dijo Wasserman Schultz. \u201cLa Casa Blanca de Biden-Harris dirigi\u00f3 h\u00e1bilmente una r\u00e1pida presi\u00f3n internacional contra el r\u00e9gimen de Maduro, ampli\u00f3 las sanciones existentes y reuni\u00f3 apoyo mundial en torno a esta realidad: Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez gan\u00f3 de manera aplastante y el pueblo venezolano merece que se cuenten sus votos y se respeten sus derechos humanos. Como lo expres\u00f3 enf\u00e1ticamente la vicepresidenta Harris en una carta reciente, Estados Unidos 'permanecer\u00e1 firme junto al pueblo venezolano en su lucha por la libertad'. Esta recompensa engrandecida por el arresto de Maduro amplificar\u00eda esos esfuerzos\u201d.\n\n\u201cPor casi dos meses desde las 'elecciones' del 28 de julio, en las cuales el pueblo venezolano vot\u00f3 abrumadoramente por el presidente electo Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez, el r\u00e9gimen de Maduro solo ha intensificado su brutal represi\u00f3n. Seg\u00fan informes, las detenciones arbitrarias, la tortura y la persecuci\u00f3n pol\u00edticamente motivada se han intensificado bajo el r\u00e9gimen opresivo de Maduro.\n\nEl r\u00e9gimen de Maduro es un grupo criminal que alimenta el narco-terrorismo, suprime los medios de comunicaci\u00f3n independientes y viola los derechos humanos con impunidad. El a\u00f1o pasado advert\u00ed que el apaciguamiento de esta dictadura por parte de la Administraci\u00f3n Biden-Harris solo envalentonar\u00eda a Maduro y el levantamiento de sanciones ha puesto en peligro nuestra seguridad nacional, ayudando a un r\u00e9gimen estrechamente aliado con peligrosos adversarios como Rusia, Ir\u00e1n, Cuba y la Rep\u00fablica Popular China.\n\nEn lugar de aliviar las sanciones, la Administraci\u00f3n Biden-Harris deber\u00eda solidarizarse con el pueblo venezolano en su lucha por la libertad aumentando la presi\u00f3n y fortaleciendo sanciones\", afirmo D\u00edaz-Balart.\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/sotos-launch-communications-act-passes-congress", "Soto\u2019s Launch Communications Act Passes Congress", "2024-09-18", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Darren Soto", "S001200", "soto.house.gov", "soto", "https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Last night, the House of Representatives passed S. 1648\u2014the Senate version of Congressman Darren Soto\u2019s (FL-09) Launch Communications Act. The Launch Communications Act requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to facilitate access to specified broadband spectrum frequencies for commercial space launches and reentries.\n\n\"In Central Florida, the busiest spaceport in the world is right in our backyard at Cape Canaveral. Last year, we hit a record with 72 orbital missions, and over 100 are expected this year,\u201d said Rep. Soto. \u201cWe\u2019ve often seen these launches stack up due to bad weather or other factors. This is why having a lengthy FCC license process for each launch can be cumbersome and costly. I\u2019m proud of our efforts to streamline the process and ensure our spaceports remain the most efficient in the world.\u201d\n\nCurrently, all commercial missions launching from U.S. soil to space utilize a government-owned spectrum to communicate with the rockets during the 10 minutes it takes to get to orbit. Ahead of a launch, private companies must apply to the FCC to receive special temporary authority (STA) to use this spectrum. In a tedious and inefficient process, the FCC coordinates each separate STA license with multiple federal agencies that could conceivably use the spectrum simultaneously. This process has become highly burdensome to the government and commercial users applying for this spectrum.\n\nThe Launch Communications Act streamlines the bureaucratic elements of the rocket launching process, making it easier for private companies to obtain authorization and temporary use of the necessary spectrums.\n\nThe bill now heads to President Joe Biden\u2019s desk to be signed into law.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-announces-28-million-fy24-faa-airport-improvement-program-grants-orlando", "Soto Announces $28 Million in FY24 FAA Airport Improvement Program Grants for Orlando International Airport and Kissimmee Gateway Airport", "2024-09-13", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Darren Soto", "S001200", "soto.house.gov", "soto", "https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ORLANDO, FL\u2014Today, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) announced that Orlando International Airport and Kissimmee Gateway Airport received $28 million in FY24 Airport Improvement Program grants from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to rehabilitate existing taxiways, maintain the structural integrity of the pavement, and extend their use.\n\n\u201cWe are proud to see our airports in Florida\u2019s Ninth District receive key federal funds to improve taxiways and ensure they can safely operate for years to come,\u201d said Rep. Soto. \u201cThanks to the Infrastructure Law and other major investments made by House Democrats and the Biden-Harris Administration in the 117th Congress, we\u2019ve had the opportunity to expand our world-class airport at MCO with a new terminal to accommodate increased travel, new gates, and a pedestrian bridge. We\u2019ve also seen Kissimmee Gateway Airport receive millions of dollars to fully upgrade its air traffic control tower to ensure safety for travelers and personnel. Our office will continue working with federal, state, and local partners to secure funds needed to keep Central Florida moving forward.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis funding is instrumental to continue crucial infrastructure improvements at Orlando International Airport, which welcomed nearly 58 million visitors to Central Florida last year,\u201d said Kevin J. Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. \u201cThe support from our local and federal partners, such as Congressman Soto, not only enhances our facilities and drives innovation, it also significantly benefits travelers by improving their experience and providing seamless connectivity.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe City of Kissimmee is extremely grateful for Congressman Soto\u2019s efforts to assist us in receiving the funds necessary to provide these improvements,\u201d said City of Kissimmee Mayor Olga Gonzalez. \u201cThe taxiway pavement and lighting project will ensure continued safety for our pilots and the funds for the air traffic control tower ensures safety and efficiency for both ground and airspace operations. It is very appreciated when the airport can inject $11M into our local economy with projects of this nature.\u201d\n\nOrlando International Airport received $17,844,568 to:\n\nRehabilitate 10,000 feet of the existing paved Taxiway H\n\nRehabilitate 5,000 feet of existing lighting on Taxiway H\n\nRehabilitate 10,000 feet of the existing paved Taxiway G\n\nRehabilitate 5,000 feet of existing lighting on Taxiway G\n\nThe funds for Orlando International Airport announced today form part of over $300 million in federal investments to build a new Terminal C, add gates, enhance runways, and build a pedestrian bridge.\n\nKissimmee Gateway Airport received $10,290,661 to:\n\nRehabilitate 3,200 feet of the existing paved Taxiway D\n\nThanks to the Infrastructure Law, Kissimmee Gateway Airport also received $1.4 million from the U.S. FAA to upgrade its air traffic control tower.\n\nFor more information on FY24 AIP grants, please click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases/frost-wasserman-schultz-lead-florida-dems-in-calling-on-doj-to-investigate-desantis-efforts-to-intimidate-voters-over-abortion-amendment-support", "Frost, Wasserman Schultz Lead Florida Dems in Calling on DOJ To Investigate DeSantis Efforts to Intimidate Voters Over Abortion Amendment Support", "2024-09-12", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Maxwell Frost", "F000476", "frost.house.gov", "frost", "https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Letter Comes as DeSantis\u2019s So-Called \u201cElection Police\u201d Have Been Showing Up to Voters Homes, Demanding Identification and Questioning Their Support for Overturning FL\u2019s 6-Week Abortion Ban\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10), Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), and their colleagues in the Florida Democratic Congressional Delegation sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland at the Department of Justice (DOJ), calling on the DOJ to investigate the State of Florida\u2019s brazen attempts at voter intimidation and election interference on Amendment 4, an amendment to Florida\u2019s constitution that would expand abortion rights across the state.\n\nGovernor Ron DeSantis, who signed Florida\u2019s unpopular 6-week abortion bill into law and has come out in strong opposition to Amendment 4, now appears to be using his \u201celection police\u201d force to intimidate voters who signed petitions in support of getting the abortion initiative on the ballot.\n\nOne person said they were \u201cleft shaken\u201d after receiving a police visit, sharing that they were deeply concerned to see that the plain clothed detective that visited him had a folder containing pages of personal information and that it was \u201ctroubling that so much resources were devoted to this.\u201d\n\nIn the letter, the Members write: \u201cWe are concerned that this investigation, as well as the AHCA\u2019s anti-Amendment 4 campaign, constitute an abuse of official resources to intimidate and unsettle voters out of voting for Amendment 4, which Governor DeSantis has a long, storied history of opposing\u2026 This suppressive and abusive conduct mirrors similar 2022 pre-election activity by the DeSantis administration to harass and arrest felons in Florida who recently had their voting rights restored\u2026We urge your department to launch an investigation into the DeSantis administration\u2019s anti-democratic actions.\u201d\n\nReps. Frost and Wasserman Schultz are joined by Reps. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Kathy Castor (FL-14), and Darren Soto (FL-09) in signing the letter.\n\nFor the full text of the letter, please click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3247", "Wasserman Schultz Commends Biden-Harris Admin's Forceful Response to Maduro Regime's Election Theft", "2024-09-12", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), co-chair of the Congressional Venezuela Democracy Caucus, released the following statement on the Biden-Harris administration\u2019s sanctions on key actors in Maduro\u2019s election theft in Venezuela:\n\n\u201cNearly a year ago today, I proudly introduced the VOICE Act to impose sanctions on Venezuelan officials responsible for election interference, corruption, and attacks on Venezuela's democratic opposition, including the ban on Mar\u00eda Corina Machado's presidential candidacy. Today, I am grateful that the Biden-Harris Administration is taking decisive action to implement key components of my bill by targeting criminal actors in the regime who have facilitated Maduro's election theft and violent repression of his own people.\n\n\u201cThese designations are a critical step to amplify international pressure on the Maduro regime to face the facts: Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez won in a landslide and the Venezuelan people deserve to have their votes counted and their rights respected.\n\n\u201cAs Vice President Harris stated in her letter to Ms. Machado and Mr. Gonz\u00e1lez, the United States 'will remain steadfast with the Venezuelan people in their fight for freedom'. We must continue to rally the free world in support of democracy, stringently enforce existing sanctions on Venezuelan oil and gas, and ensure swift, sweeping consequences for dictators like Maduro who thrive on impunity and apathy.\u201d\n\n####", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-cherfilus-mccormicks-statement-donald-trump-parroting", "Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s Statement on Donald Trump Parroting Senator J.D. Vance's Racist Lies", "2024-09-11", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick issued the following statement on Donald Trump Parroting Senator J.D. Vance's Racist Lies.\n\n\"Donald Trump is once again fixating on fictitious stories rooted in racist stereotypes in hopes of scaring Americans into voting for him. His outrageous comment about immigrants eating Springfield, Ohio, residents\u2019 pets is nothing more than a desperate attempt to stoke fear and division. It\u2019s insulting, it\u2019s false, and it\u2019s rooted in the worst kinds of stereotypes.\n\nLet\u2019s be clear: Haitians and other immigrants come to this country committed to education, hard work, and building a better life, not just for themselves but for all of us. They contribute to our economy, enrich our culture, and strengthen our communities. Trump\u2019s comments are a distraction from the real issues we face, and we won\u2019t be fooled.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404674", "Castor Celebrates Four Outstanding Immigrants for Embodying the \u2018American Dream\u2019 in the 2024 American Dream Awards", "2024-09-10", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "TAMPA, FL \u2013 U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor celebrated four Tampa Bay immigrants who have made significant contributions to their local community and embodied the American Dream during Castor\u2019s annual \u2018American Dream Awards.\u2019\n\n\u201cThe beauty of this country revolves around the diversity among us. These giants in our community are achieving their own version of the American Dream as athletes and legal professionals, ensuring the wheels of justice turn for everyone, educators and entrepreneurs. In this community, our differences make this a great place to work, raise a family and pursue our dreams,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cWhen people start to condemn or insult immigrants, I take it personally. That\u2019s why this event is so important to me so that we can uplift the beautiful stories of our neighbors across the Tampa Bay area. I am proud to honor Carlos and Karelis Carrasco, Jamila Little, Carol Mayo and Daniel Hurtado de Mendoza for their hard work, perseverance and love for our country.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is a great honor as the son of Carlos and Karelis to see their work recognized. Usually, as the son of a professional baseball player, people recognize my dad only for baseball, but it is great to see his work helping communities around the globe and fellow immigrants be celebrated. It fills my heart with joy that other people around the world can feel the love he has given me,\u201d said Lucas Gonzalez Carrasco.\n\n\u201cWhen I found out about this award, I had tears in my eyes because usually this work is not seen. It truly takes a village, and it is a privilege to contribute to our communities and serve those who are now walking where I walked,\u201d said Jamila Little.\n\n\u201cWhen I enrolled in eighth grade in the United States, I was placed in lower-level classes because the school believed I did not know English. As a teacher, I work every day to ensure my students, whether they speak English or not, are not questioned on their intellectual ability. We hear a lot of negativity around immigrants, but it takes all of us to focus on the goodness and share that,\u201d said Carol Mayo.\n\n\u201cA lot of people ask me why I do the things I do; the only answer I have is that through everything I have been through in my life, I have seen many people lose hope, but every day, I try to help people wake up with hope and knowing tomorrow will be better. It is our responsibility as community members to lend a hand and help our neighbors feel hope again,\u201d said Daniel Hurtado de Mendoza.\n\nPhotos of the event can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-cherfilus-mccormick-valadao-introduce-legislation-fix-central-valley", "Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick, Valadao Introduce Legislation to Fix Central Valley Roads", "2024-09-10", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) and Congressman David G. Valadao (CA-22) introduced the Farm to Market Road Improvement Act. Roads in dense agricultural areas are often traveled by heavy trucks carrying up to 80,000 pounds of agricultural freight. This type of use has a disproportionate impact on local road and bridge infrastructure in these areas, which leads to costly repairs for local governments. This legislation aims to make additional federal resources available to fix the roads that play a critical role in America\u2019s food supply chain. Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick, and Valadao and are joined by Congressmen Fong and Costa in introducing this legislation.\n\n\u201cEnsuring the integrity of our roads is crucial for the economy and well-being of communities in the Glades, where agriculture remains a vital industry,\" said Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick. \"By investing in the infrastructure that supports our local farmers, we are not only securing the safe transport of their goods but also strengthening the supply chain that feeds our nation. This bill exemplifies the kind of bipartisan effort needed to protect our agricultural backbone and create sustainable growth in our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Central Valley plays a critical role in the security of our nation\u2019s food supply,\u201d said Congressman Valadao. \u201cBut after years of wear and tear from heavy trucks transporting the food that feeds the world through our roads, many are in desperate need of repair. This bill would make counties throughout the Central Valley eligible for additional federal resources to fix roads that are critical to our food supply chain. I\u2019m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to improve local infrastructure and support jobs throughout our community.\u201d\n\nReps. Cherfilus-McCormick and Valadao were joined in introduction by Reps. Vince Fong (CA-20) and Jim Costa (CA-21).\n\n\u201cIn the Central Valley, we see firsthand the necessity of roads to distribute fresh food throughout our transportation infrastructure,\u201d said Congressman Fong. \u201cThese vital roads must be prioritized for constant upkeep to not only move farming and ranching goods, but also to help our neighbors trying to get to work and their children to school safely every day. This act will ensure that our roads are maintained, and our agriculture industry is supported so Central Valley\u2019s agriculture can continue to supply food to our nation.\u201d\n\n\u201cFarm to market roads are critical for our rural communities as they are able to effectively and efficiently transport our agricultural goods to market. The Farm to Market Road Improvement Act will unlock additional federal resources to ensure agricultural goods grown locally in the San Joaquin Valley can go from farm to market so our Valley can continue to feed the nation and world,\u201d said Congressman Costa.\n\nThe Farm to Market Road Improvement Act is supported by Tulare County Association of Governments, Kings County, California Farm Bureau, American Farm Bureau, and Palm Beach County.\n\n\u201cPalm Beach County, Florida supports resources to agricultural and rural communities to assist in repairing Farm to Market roads as efficiently as possible, so that agricultural products can be transported safely and quickly from farms to consumers. We support Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick and Valadao\u2019s legislative effort to define Farm-to-Market Roads in eligible counties, ensuring that 10% of the Rural Transportation Grant Program is directed to these crucial agricultural roadways,\u201d said Palm Beach County Mayor, Maria Sachs.\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Farm to Market Road Improvement Act would create a 10 percent set aside in the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program for farm to market roads. Farm to market roads would be defined by this legislation as roads within a county that have an annual gross ag production value of at least $1 billion and ag production of at least $500,000 per square mile. Fresno, Tulare, Kings, and Kern Counties all qualify under these criteria. The DOT and USDA would be required to create, and annually update, a list of covered counties.\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.\n\nRead a one-page summary of the bill here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-maxwell-frost-slams-disgusting-republican-led-attacks-against-haitian-migrants", "Congressman Maxwell Frost Slams Disgusting Republican-Led Attacks Against Haitian Migrants", "2024-09-10", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Maxwell Frost", "F000476", "frost.house.gov", "frost", "https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ORLANDO, FL \u2014 Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) released a statement following the outrageous, racially motivated attacks against Haitian people living in the United States by top GOP leaders, including VP nominee JD Vance, which have been debunked by Vance's own home state of Ohio.\n\nIn a statement, Rep. Frost says:\n\n\"I am deeply proud to represent one of the largest Haitian communities across the United States in my hometown of Central Florida. Haitian Americans and folks of Haitian descent are our neighbors, family, friends, loved ones, and valued members of our communities. JD Vance and GOP leaders' racially motivated attacks against Haitian people are disgusting, bigoted, and based on flat-out lies.\n\n\"That top Republican leaders in Congress and across the nation would bolster these lies online and attempt to frighten the American public to gain votes in the upcoming presidential election is disgusting \u2013 and proves that Republicans don't give a damn about communities of color, they want to villainize us.\n\n\"Haitian migrants and Haitian Americans deserve leaders who will see them as human beings and will fight for them, not leaders who will cast them out when it benefits them.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-wilson-s-statement-on-the-body-cam-footage-of-tyreek-hill", "Congresswoman Wilson's Statement on the Body Cam Footage of Tyreek Hill", "2024-09-10", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Frederica S. Wilson", "W000808", "wilson.house.gov", "wilson", "https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Miami, Fla. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24) released the following statement reacting to the body cam footage of Tyreek Hill:\n\n\"In order to be a police officer, you need to have a certain temperament, and it's clear the officers in the video don't have that.\n\n\"I've worked for decades with the Miami Dolphins, the police, and the 5000 Role Models of Excellence to foster civil relationships between the police and Black men, and I'm pissed at this interaction.\n\n\"Just when we thought things were getting better between our officers and the Black community, this incident set us back, and I am even more committed now to easing that tension between the police and Black men, which has existed since slavery.\n\n\"I know these officers do not represent the entire Miami-Dade Police Department, as there are many officers who protect our community with civility every day.\n\n\"I have reached out to Tyreek Hill, the Miami Dolphins, Miami-Dade County officials, and the Dade Police Department for clarification. We must all continue working together to keep our community safe and ease the tension that persists.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404670", "U.S. Reps. Castor, Clarke Introduce Bill to Lower Costs, Boost Energy Efficiency Across America", "2024-09-09", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14) and Yvette Clarke (NY-09) introduced legislation to boost innovative energy efficiency technologies and lower energy costs for families and small businesses across America. Specifically, the American Energy Efficiency Act would create a new national energy efficiency resource standard, which, according to experts, could save consumers over $56 billion on their energy bills and create 400,000 new jobs.\n\n\u201cImproving energy efficiency is a win-win-win for Americans\u2019 pocketbooks, workers and our fight against the costly effects of climate change,\u201d said Rep. Castor. \u201cAs Governor DeSantis fails to address rising energy costs for Florida families, the American Energy Efficiency Act would establish a nationwide energy efficiency standard to deliver much-needed savings while cutting harmful carbon pollution.\u201d\n\n\u201cOvercoming the climate crisis demands comprehensive solutions centered in securing the safety and prosperity of our communities. It\u2019s clear that, if we are to protect American families and small businesses from the drastically higher energy costs and other harms associated with a changing climate, Congress needs to take meaningful action today,\u201d said Rep. Clarke. \u201cI am proud to work alongside Rep. Castor on behalf of legislation that will redefine energy efficiency in our nation, saving consumers billions, creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs, and putting America on the right path forward.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the American Energy Efficiency Act would build upon state successes to establish a national energy efficiency resource standard (EERS). This bill would help all states benefit from commercial, cost-effective energy savings technologies by:\n\nSetting the parameters for a national EERS, which would be administered by each state.\n\nRequiring retail electric and natural gas utilities to achieve energy savings of 22% and 14%, respectively, by the year 2039.\n\nEncouraging distributors to obtain energy savings in a variety of ways, including helping customers save energy by upgrading insulation, lighting, and appliances.\n\nDirecting the Department of Energy to set uniform national energy savings measurement protocols for retailers to measure, verify, and report energy savings achieved.\n\nAllowing states to continue to administer their own programs and encourage them to adopt even more stringent efficiency goals.\n\nThe American Energy Efficiency Act is endorsed by numerous labor organizations, industry associations and advocacy groups. View the full list here.\n\nA one-page fact sheet on the bill is available .", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-cherfilus-mccormicks-statement-jd-vances-racist-lies", "Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s Statement on J.D. Vance\u2019s Racist Lies, Pathetic Politics", "2024-09-09", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick issued the following statement on J.D. Vance\u2019s racist lies, pathetic politics.\n\n\"J.D. Vance\u2019s recent comments about Haitians in Springfield eating pets and local wildlife are not only a vile, racist lie but also beneath the dignity of any public office, let alone the Senate or the Vice Presidency. It\u2019s disgusting and disgraceful that someone seeking the nation's second-highest office would stoop to such baseless, hateful rhetoric.\n\nInstead of peddling these falsehoods, Vance would be better suited to continue writing his fictional tales and testing out his sofa. This is just another page from the same old Republican playbook using fear, division, and racism to distract from their lack of real solutions for the American people. We deserve better, and J.D. Vance has no place in the Senate, let alone the White House.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-maxwell-frost-introduces-work-permit-reform-act-to-help-keep-migrants-on-the-job-and-fix-broken-system", "Congressman Maxwell Frost Introduces Work Permit Reform Act to Help Keep Migrants on the Job and Fix Broken System", "2024-09-05", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Maxwell Frost", "F000476", "frost.house.gov", "frost", "https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Frost Was Joined By Local Community Leaders and TPS Holders Who Have Personally Struggled as a Result of Work Permit Redtape\n\nWatch the Press Conference Here\n\nORLANDO, FL \u2014 Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL) joined local community leaders and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders to announce a new bill, the Work Permit Reform Act legislation that would improve and streamline the process of renewing work permits for migrants, so they can stay on the job and support their families while contributing to their communities and paying taxes.\n\nFrost's bill comes as Florida, which leads the country in TPS holders with nearly 300,000 recipients living in the Sunshine State, is home to more than a third of the total number of TPS holders in the nation.\n\nRight now, TPS holders, migrants who have fled unsafe conditions in their home countries and are legally and temporarily residing in the U.S., must separately apply for an Employment Authorization Document or a work permit to be able to work, earn a living, and pay taxes. Much like TPS, work permits are temporary and must be renewed after a certain period.\n\nFor migrants, the disconnected processes of securing TPS and a work permit can cause stress and panic for TPS holders waiting to hear if their temporary legal status will be extended or redesignated. They could lose their jobs, income, and more when permit renewals are stalled due to the ambiguous future of a TPS extension or chronically slow processing times.\n\nThe Work Permit Reform Act is the much-needed relief that TPS holders have been longing for. It will automatically extend the validity of work permits for those already eligible to work in the U.S. when their TPS is extended, eliminating the stress and uncertainty of permit renewals.\n\n\"The nearly 300,000 folks living in Florida and the thousands living here in Orlando aren't just numbers and figures. They're human beings. They're parents, siblings, partners, children \u2013 all suffering because of the delays and red tape that constantly keeps them in the gray on their work status,\" said Congressman Maxwell Frost. \"We need Work Permit Reform now to help offer stability and peace of mind to thousands of families, workers, and employees living in a constant, unnecessary panic over their legal and working status in our country. These folks are here legally; they want to get to work, pay their fair share of taxes, and contribute to our society. We cannot stand in the way of that.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3241", "Wasserman Schultz, Florida House Dems Demand Speaker Johnson Advance Venezuela Legislation to House Floor", "2024-09-05", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), co-chair of the Congressional Venezuela Democracy Caucus and Dean of Florida\u2019s Democratic delegation, led Florida\u2019s Congressional Democrats in a letter calling on Speaker Mike Johnson to respond to the urgent political crisis in Venezuela by immediately bringing bipartisan, pro-democracy legislation to the House floor when Congress reconvenes next week.\n\nThe letter offers a series of bipartisan measures for the Speaker's consideration, several of which are led by Wasserman Schultz, such as the VOICE Act, the AFFECT Human Rights in Venezuela Act, and a recent resolution expressing U.S. solidarity with the Venezuelan people, recognizing Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez as Venezuela\u2019s president-elect, and demanding accountability for Nicol\u00e1s Maduro's election theft and repression.\n\nThe authors cite a message to Venezuelan opposition leaders in which Vice President Kamala Harris \u201cunderscored strong U.S. support for the Venezuelan people, denounced state-sponsored violence against demonstrators, and demanded more international pressure on Maduro to promote a peaceful transition of power\u201d and state that \u201cCongress must follow her lead.\u201d\n\nWasserman Schultz was joined by Florida Democratic colleagues Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Darren Soto (FL-09), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24).\n\n\u201cThe Venezuelan people have spoken at the ballot box and in the streets, and overwhelming majorities across the nation repudiated Maduro and chose democracy,\u201d said Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz. \u201cBut this brutal narco-regime refuses to face reality, despite clear evidence of Maduro\u2019s loss. Florida Democrats are determined to stop the violent repression of protestors and restore Venezuela\u2019s democracy. If House Republicans are serious about countering migration and standing up to dictators, Speaker Johnson must bring bipartisan legislation to the floor to punish human rights abuses and promote a peaceful transfer of power.\u201d\n\nThe full text of the letter can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3242", "Florida Congressional Democrats Call for Investigation and Records Release on Shelved Florida Parks Plan", "2024-09-05", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "\"We insist that your office immediately turn over all public records that would lay out how such a hasty plan was ever conceived and direct the Office of Inspector General to conduct an independent formal investigation into what state procedures were violated, and which private parties lobbied for and stood to benefit from it,\u201d says the letter from U.S. Reps. Wasserman Schultz, Castor, Soto, Frost and Cherfilus-McCormick.\n\nWashington DC \u2013 Today, a group of Florida Congressional Democrats requested that Gov. Ron DeSantis release all records related to a controversial state parks development plan, and asked that the Florida Inspector General\u2019s Office investigate how this proposal to open up these sensitive public spaces to new golf course and hotel projects was conceived and who stood to benefit from it.\n\n\u201cWe insist that your office immediately turn over all public records that would lay out how such a hasty plan was ever conceived and direct the Office of Inspector General to conduct an independent formal investigation into what state procedures were violated, and which private parties lobbied for and stood to benefit from it,\u201d says the letter from U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Darren Soto (FL-09), Maxwell Frost (FL-10) and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20).\n\n\"Your proposal was quietly rushed into a public hearing process and timed to a summer travel period when residents were less likely to attend. It is also still not clear who is behind the plan. Given this destructive, veiled affront, the public is owed peace of mind, honesty and transparency,\u201d the letter states.\n\nRead the full letter here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-cherfilus-mccormick-ciscomani-introduce-effort-improve-care-senior", "Reps Cherfilus-McCormick, Ciscomani, Introduce Effort to Improve Care for Senior Veterans and Veterans with Disabilities", "2024-09-03", "2024", "2024-09", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), and Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), who both serve on the House Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee, introduced a new effort to improve healthcare coordination and management for veterans who receive services through Medicare and the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). Many veterans over the age of 65 and those who are disabled are enrolled in both Medicare and the VA. Oftentimes, due to a lack of coordination between agencies, dual enrollment can lead to challenges and result in fragmented and more expensive care.\n\nCherfilus-McCormick and Ciscomani\u2019s effort, the Coordinating Care for Senior Veterans and Wounded Warriors Act (H.R. 9399), would create a three-year pilot program to better coordinate, navigate, and manage healthcare benefits for veterans enrolled in both systems by assigning a case manager to develop individualized healthcare plans that best suit the needs of that veteran as well as ensure the proper delivery of those services.\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s veterans deserve the highest quality and standard of care,\u201d said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Ranking Member of the Veterans\u2019 Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization. \u201cThe VA and Medicare program must fulfill this mission, but research continues to show that dually enrolled veterans struggle to navigate the healthcare bureaucracy and receive coordinated care. I am proud to co-lead the Coordinating Care for Senior Veterans and Wounded Warriors Act, which would connect dually enrolled veterans with case managers to help them personalize their healthcare services, all while lowering costs. This bill has the potential to significantly increase access to care for my home state of Florida, which has the third-largest veteran population in the entire country. I am excited to work with my colleague Congressman Ciscomani to advance this bipartisan priority.\u201d\n\n\u201cVeterans are our nation\u2019s heroes, and they deserve a healthcare system that works for them,\u201d said Congressman Juan Ciscomani, who represents over 70,000 veterans. \u201cUnfortunately, too often, I hear from veterans who are frustrated by the lack of coordination between Medicare and the VA when trying to access the healthcare benefits they are owed. This bipartisan legislation will help senior veterans and those with disabilities by assigning a case manager to develop individualized care plans, coordinate the delivery of care, and help veterans navigate Medicare and the VA. I am proud to partner with Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick on this effort.\u201d\n\n\"Wounded Warrior Project is pleased to support the Coordinating Care for Senior Veterans and Wounded Warriors Access Act,\u201d said Jose Ramos, Vice President for Government and Community Relations for the Wounded Warrior Project. \u201cInnovative pilot programs like the one envisioned by this bill help us better understand what's possible in our effort to improve the systems of care that support our nation's heroes. With better case coordination and health care outcomes as the goal, this pilot program can help younger veterans who use Medicare earlier in life because of catastrophic injuries from military service. We thank Representatives Ciscomani and Cherfilus-McCormick for their vision and leadership on this issue and urge Congress to pass this important legislation.\"\n\n\u201cMany veterans with disabilities rely on both VA health care and Medicare to meet their healthcare needs,\u201d said Heather Ansley, Chief Policy Officer of Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA). \u201cThis can lead to a duplication of care, poor coordination of services, higher costs; and in the worst of cases, endangers the health and wellbeing of the veteran. PVA supports the Coordinating Care for Senior Veterans and Wounded Warriors Act, which tests VA\u2019s ability to coordinate and manage care and benefits between these two systems for covered veterans.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe VA has many beneficial programs and services that often go unused by veterans and family caregivers because of a lack of holistic and proactive care coordination, especially for those with the most complex needs,\u201d said Steve Schwab, Chief Executive Officer of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. \u201cThe Coordinating Care for Senior Veterans and Wounded Warriors Act recognizes this challenge and represents a significant step toward allowing veterans and caregivers to realize the benefit of the VA\u2019s care while alleviating the burden of navigating the agency\u2019s often complex web of services. We thank Congressman Ciscomani and Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick for their introduction of this meaningful legislation and look forward to continued efforts to improve care coordination efforts across the VA.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis bi-partisan bill marks a significant step forward in ensuring that senior veterans receive the comprehensive health care and supports they have earned,\u201d said Michael Braham, President of CareSource Military and Veterans. \u201cBy leveraging managed care best practices, this pilot program would enhance the continuity and coordination of care for veterans covered by the VA and Medicare. It would be designed using proven practices that help to improve health outcomes, substantially advance quality of life, and enable future collaborations to prioritize the well-being of our nation\u2019s heroes.\u201d\n\n\u201cEasterseals is proud to support this important legislation that will improve coordination and eliminate inefficiencies to ensure our nation\u2019s veterans get the care they need, when they need it,\u201d said Kendra Davenport, President and CEO of Easterseals. \u201cI want to commend Rep. Ciscomani and every other lawmaker involved in this effort. Dual enrollment in Medicare and VA health care often leads to confusion, duplication of services, and sometimes even the delay in receiving care for many veterans. This legislation will improve coordination between the two systems and guide America's veterans through this often-complex process.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, is the Ranking Member of the Veterans\u2019 Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization and a member of the Veterans\u2019 Affairs Subcommittee on Health. She is committed to ensuring that the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces receive their hard-earned benefits and are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. The Coordinating Care for Senior Veterans and Wounded Warriors Act reflects her dedication to lowering healthcare costs and expanding access to care for veterans.\n\nA companion bill was introduced in the Senate by Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Angus King (I-ME). The full bill text can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:43:57Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-cherfilus-mccormick-delivers-1666279-funding-city-tamarac", "Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick Delivers $1,666,279 in Funding to the City of Tamarac for the Rehabilitation and Rebuild Program", "2024-08-28", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "TAMARAC, FL \u2013 Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick joined the City of Tamarac\u2019s Commissioners to announce $1,666,279 in essential Community Project Funding for the city\u2019s Rehabilitation and Rebuild Program.\n\n\u201cNobody should have to choose between putting food on the table or fixing a roof. Today, we are taking a significant step to ensure that doesn\u2019t happen,\u201d said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. \u201cWith this funding, we are helping households in need of emergency roof replacements and other safety-related repairs. These funds will go directly toward securing safe, decent, and affordable homes for those who need them most.\u201d\n\n\"The Tamarac community is very thankful to Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick for her hard work towards supporting affordable housing options. Without these funds, many families will not have a decent, safe, and sanitary place to call home or experience the joy of homeownership,\u201d said Carolyn Francis-Royer, Tamarac's Housing & Community Development Manager. \u201cThis funding will certainly strengthen our affordable housing programs, allowing us to positively impact more families by bringing hope and a sense of security.\"\n\nRising construction costs have made critical repairs, such as roof replacement and other major systems, increasingly challenging to afford. Homeowners are also facing pressure from insurance companies to complete roof repairs within 90 days to avoid losing coverage. The Tamarac Rehabilitation and Rebuild Program will help Tamarac\u2019s low-to-moderate-income families, who are in jeopardy of having their home insurance canceled because they cannot afford to make these necessary safety-related repairs to their homes. With 250 households currently on the waiting list for emergency roof replacements, this funding is urgently needed.\n\nThe funding for the City of Tamarac was included in Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s requests for Community Project Funding (CPF) in Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. The requests delivered over $14.4 million in critical resources for Florida\u2019s 20th Congressional District to address some of the district\u2019s most pressing needs.\n\nFor more information about Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s FY24 CPF requests, please click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404666", "Rep. Castor Announces Boost to Affordable Care Act Navigators in Florida - $13M to USF Florida Covering Kids and Families", "2024-08-27", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "TAMPA, FL \u2013 Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) announced the University of South Florida (USF) will receive $13,792,000 in federal grant funding from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to support ACA health navigators across the state. Specifically, the grant funding will support Florida Covering Kids and Families (FL-CKF) and USF College of Public Health as they assist families with affordable coverage. Since 2013, FL-CKF has supported over 150 health navigators to provide outreach and free ACA Marketplace enrollment assistance to Florida families, as well as assistance enrolling eligible children in Medicaid and KidCare.\n\n\u201cThis investment will be a godsend to my neighbors who rely on affordable, high-quality health care. Florida consistently ranks as a top State in sign-up numbers for health coverage during the open-enrollment period, with over 4 million Floridians choosing a plan in 2024,\u201d said Castor. \u201cThis grant, which is the largest in the nation, will help more of Florida\u2019s families, consumers and small businesses find the health coverage they need while removing barriers to obtaining coverage.\n\n\u201cThanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, health care has never been more affordable. In fact, many Floridians will enjoy an average savings of $590/year \u2013 spending no more than 8.5% of their income on premiums \u2013 while ensuring they can\u2019t be kicked off their coverage for getting sick.\n\nU.S. Rep. Castor serves on the U.S. House Energy & Commerce Committee and helped to draft the Affordable Care Act to ensure it works for families and small businesses. Since ACA enrollment began in 2013, Florida has consistently led the nation in the number of sign-ups on healthcare.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-cherfilus-mccormick-delivers-2250000-funding-palm-beach", "Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick Delivers $2,250,000 in Funding to Palm Beach County for the Workforce Affordable Housing Development Project", "2024-08-27", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "TAMARAC, FL \u2013 Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick joined Palm Beach County commissioners to announce $2,250,000 in critical Community Project Funding for the city\u2019s Workforce Affordable Housing Development project.\n\n\u201cFor too many people in the community, the dream of owning a home has become out of reach. High housing costs have left many hardworking individuals and families struggling to find a safe and affordable place to stay, especially in Palm Beach,\u201d said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. \u201cThat is why programs like the Workforce Affordable Housing Development project are crucial. The Workforce Housing Program ensures that homes are available at below-market prices and that those who qualify can receive assistance with down payments and closing costs. With this funding, we are closing the gaps, ensuring no one is left behind, and the people supporting our community can live in it.\u201d\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the people of Palm Beach County, I thank you for your commitment and support of our efforts to provide housing for all our residents. The demand for affordable housing continues to increase with the ongoing population growth in the area along with the average wage, which continues to lag behind the amount of money people need to buy affordable housing, and the result is that our essential workers and service providers are basically being priced out of our area,\u201d said Palm Beach County Mayor Maria Sachs. \u201cThis new commitment by your office, from the federal government to us, will give us an opportunity to build affordable housing that we are hopeful will help ease the effects of this housing crisis. Thank you again, Congresswoman, on behalf of the people of Palm Beach County and this County Commission, for your support in addressing and relieving the affordable housing crisis.\u201d\n\nThe Workforce Affordable Housing Development project is designed to offer Palm Beach County's workforce (such as firefighters, law enforcement professionals, construction workers, doctors, teachers, business owners, etc.) the chance to buy homes at prices below the market rate. The program addresses the housing requirements of individuals in roles crucial to the community's economic sustainability.\n\nThe funding for Palm Beach County was included in Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s requests for Community Project Funding (CPF) in Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. The requests delivered over $14.4 million in critical resources for Florida\u2019s 20th Congressional District to address some of the district\u2019s most pressing needs.\n\nFor more information about Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s FY24 CPF requests, please click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-cherfilus-mccormick-delivers-963000-funding-city", "Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick Delivers $963,000 in Funding to the City of Lauderhill for the Comprehensive Crime Reduction Program", "2024-08-26", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "TAMARAC, FL \u2014 Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick joined the City of Lauderhill to announce $963,000 in critical Community Project Funding for its Comprehensive Crime Reduction Program.\n\n\u201cBy equipping our police department with the tools and resources they need, we are saying loud and clear that we will not allow violence to take root in our homes. We are committed to supporting survivors of violence and holding offenders accountable,\u201d said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. \u201cI am proud to have delivered this critical funding for the City of Lauderhill\u2019s Comprehensive Crime Reduction Program, which will enable our law enforcement officers to work more efficiently, effectively, and precisely. It will allow them to expand their reach without sacrificing the services that keep our community safe. This means increased intervention resources, enhanced crime prevention technology, and additional support for those in greatest need.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt has been a pleasure working with Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick since she took office. Her willingness to hear our needs and advocate on our behalf at the Capitol has resulted in her acquiring a substantial number of financial resources that positively impacted Lauderhill\u2019s annual budget,\u201d said Mayor Ken Thruston. \u201cThe safety and security of residents and law enforcement remain a top concern of the city, and this appropriation serves two major purposes: decreasing costs to taxpayers while giving our law enforcement more tools to fight crime without sacrificing services or safety. Thank you to the Congresswoman for the assistance!\u201d\n\nThe Comprehensive Crime Reduction Program will support technology, programming, and staffing to improve incident response time while working to drive down crime occurrences in Lauderhill. The funding fills a critical gap in the Lauderhill community. It enhances the Lauderhill Police Department\u2019s efforts to combat violent crime, focusing on domestic violence, which is a priority for the City Commission and Administration.\n\nThe funding for the City of Lauderhill was included in Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s requests for Community Project Funding (CPF) in Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. The requests delivered over $14.4 million in critical resources for Florida\u2019s 20th Congressional District to address some of the district\u2019s most pressing needs.\n\nFor more information about Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s FY24 CPF requests, please click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404664", "U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Statement on DeSantis Radical Plan to \u2018Pave Over Paradise\u2019", "2024-08-23", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "TAMPA, FL \u2013 U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement on Florida Governor Ron DeSantis\u2019 recreation proposal:\n\n\u201cFlorida natural spaces are unique and special, and I adamantly oppose Governor DeSantis\u2019 radical plan to literally pave paradise and put up a pickleball court,\u201d U.S. Representative Kathy Castor (FL-14) said. \u201cHe aims to sell out our most beloved parks to the highest bidder under the guise of outdoor recreation. Florida\u2019s unique natural lands and habitats\u2014our state\u2019s identity and way of life\u2014should not be bulldozed to cut developers a cheap deal. DeSantis\u2019 plan will harm our state\u2019s ability to draw over 30 million visitors as many come to enjoy our natural places. This move marks the latest effort by the Governor to prioritize profits over the planet, following his administration\u2019s repeated anti-environment, anti-climate actions.\u201d\n\nThese ridiculous projects include: multiple 18-hole golf courses at Jonathan Dickinson State Park on Florida\u2019s Atlantic Coast, 350-room park lodges at both Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine and Topsail Hill Preserve State Park on Santa Rosa Beach, up to four pickleball courts each at seven state parks, a disc golf course at five state parks, and a suite of new cabins at three parks. In Tampa Bay, plans call for up to four pickleball courts at both Honeymoon Island State Park and Hillsborough River State Park, with the addition of a disc golf course at the latter, according to the Tampa Bay Times.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3236", "Wasserman Schultz, Salazar, Bennet, Risch, Lead Bipartisan VALOR Act to Promote Democracy in Venezuela", "2024-08-22", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), co-chair of Congressional Venezuela Democracy Caucus, and Maria Salazar (FL-27), announced their intent to introduce the Venezuela Advancing Liberty, Opportunity, and Rights Act (VALOR Act) when the House reconvenes in September. The VALOR Act would establish U.S. policy in support of a transition to democratic order in Venezuela.\n\nThe Senate version of the bill is led by Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Jim Risch (R-ID), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.\n\n\u201cVenezuelans courageously took to the ballot box to seek true, legitimate representation after a lost decade under Maduro,\u201d said Representative Wasserman Schultz, who co-chairs the Congressional Venezuela Democracy Caucus. \u201cDespite violent repression, overwhelming majorities repudiated Maduro and chose President-elect Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez. But this brutal regime refuses to face reality, despite clear evidence proving Maduro\u2019s loss. The Biden-Harris Administration successfully forced Maduro to hold this election. Now, the United States must ensure consequences for Maduro's attempt to overturn the will of the voters and support a democratic future for all Venezuelans.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Maduro regime continues to violate internationally recognized human rights and threaten regional and international peace with impunity. It is past time the United States take the lead in establishing clear and resolute policies to support a credible transition to democratic order in Venezuela,\u201d said Senator Risch. \u201cThe VALOR Act will do just that by seeking international cooperation for a peaceful transition to democracy in Venezuela and maintaining sanctions until there has been substantive and measurable progress. I\u2019m grateful to Senator Bennet for working with me on this effort.\u201d\n\n\u201cMaduro and his corrupt, illegitimate regime have wreaked havoc on Venezuela and its people. This bipartisan legislation affirms the United States\u2019 support for the Venezuelan people\u2019s fight to restore the rule of law and democracy in their country when they elected President-elect Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez on July 28. I\u2019ll keep working with Senator Risch and my colleagues to demonstrate that the United States of America stands with them,\u201d said Senator Bennet.\n\n\u201cAmerica cannot wait any longer as Maduro finalizes his theft of Venezuela\u2019s election,\u201d said Representative Salazar. \u201cThe United States must send the message that Maduro\u2019s time in Miraflores is up, and that Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez will take his rightful office in January. No more money for the Chavistas and their repressive apparatus.\u201d\n\nThe VALOR Act:\n\n\u00b7 Establishes democratic benchmarks guiding the removal of sanctions on the Maduro regime and any non-democratic successor.\n\n\u00b7 Codifies financial sanctions on the Venezuelan Central Bank, Petr\u00f3leos de Venezuela, S.A., and Venezuelan cryptocurrency.\n\n\u00b7 Requires the United States block participation of any non-democratic government of Venezuela at the Organization of American States, Inter-American Development Bank, and International Momentary Fund.\n\n\u00b7 Authorizes a $5M U.S. contribution to create an OAS Emergency Fund to deploy human rights monitors and electoral observers.\n\n\u00b7 Authorizes nongovernmental organizations to support humanitarian, democracy building, education, environmental protection, and non-commercial development projects in Venezuela directly benefiting the Venezuelan people.\n\n\u00b7 Blocks U.S. foreign assistance to any country providing assistance, including financial assistance (except humanitarian aid), to the Maduro regime or any non-democratic successor.\n\n\u00b7 Requires the president to develop an economic assistance plan to a democratically governed Venezuela and creates a \u201ccoordinating official\u201d within the State Department to oversee development and implementation of such a plan.\n\n\u00b7 Requires the president to submit a report to Congress outlining barriers and policy objectives on trade and investment between the U.S. and a democratically governed Venezuela.\n\nText of the VALOR Act can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-cherfilus-mccormick-jackson-brownley-and-salinas-introduce-empowering", "Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick, Jackson, Brownley, and Salinas Introduce the \u201cEmpowering Women in Agriculture Act\u201d", "2024-08-21", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (D-IL), Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (D-OR), and Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) introduced the Empowering Women in Agriculture Act. This critical piece of legislation is designed to dismantle the barriers impeding women\u2019s participation and representation in agriculture.\n\n\u201cThe Empowering Women in Agriculture Act is not just a bill; it\u2019s a call to action,\u201d said Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. \u201cBy ensuring targeted funding and resources are reaching women, we can empower our female farmers, support their contributions to our nation\u2019s agricultural sector, and combat the systemic challenges they face.\u201d\n\nHistorically, women farmers, particularly Black female farmers, have faced numerous obstacles, including underrepresentation and inadequate access to federal programs. Women, representing just over a third of U.S. farmers, have historically faced significant barriers when seeking farm loans, including rejection, unfair terms, and excessive supervision. A Government Accountability Office (GAO) report commissioned by the 2018 Farm Bill reveals that women make up a disproportionately small percentage of agricultural producers, with many reporting discrimination in accessing agricultural credit. The report also confirms that female farmers receive a disproportionately low number of USDA loans.\n\nThe Empowering Women in Agriculture Act seeks to amend the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (FARM Bill) to address these critical issues by:\n\nMandating that at least 10% of federal funds be allocated specifically to women-focused organizations.\n\nIncluding women in the definition of \u201csocially disadvantaged farmer or rancher\u201d within Title 7 U.S. Code \u00a7 2279.\n\nEnhancing equitable access to funding and resources for organizations serving disadvantaged farmers and\n\nPromoting gender equity by boosting opportunities for Black female farmers and other underrepresented groups.\n\n\u201cHistorically and culturally, Black women, mothers, and grandmothers were the primary farmers. Today, Black women make up less than 2% of all farmers. The underrepresentation is not for lack of desire, but lack of opportunity and access. The struggle is real when it comes to accessing federal programs and initiatives. The Empowering Women in Agriculture Act is one step closer to leveling the playing field in helping to support minority and women farmers,\u201d said Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson.\n\n\u201cCalifornia\u2019s 26th Congressional District is home to a vibrant agriculture industry, and we are proud of our rich heritage. To keep our agricultural economy strong, we need to continue to nurture and support the next generation of growers, including bringing more women into this critical industry,\u201d said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. \u201cI appreciate Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick\u2019s strong leadership in introducing the Empowering Women in Agriculture Act, and I am proud to support the bill.\u201d\n\n\u201cWomen farmers \u2014 particularly women of color \u2014 have largely been left out of receiving federal assistance, which has contributed to the steady decline in our agriculture industry over the years,\u201d said Congresswoman Andrea Salinas. \u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019m honored to join my colleagues in introducing this bill to expand outreach and assistance for women farmers. By providing more funding for women in agriculture, our bill would both promote diversity and give rural communities a much-needed boost.\u201d\n\n\u201cWomen Farmers deserve a sustainable seat at the agriculture table,\u201d said Dr. Tammy-Steele, Director of the National Women in Agriculture Association. \u201cThe Empowering Women in Agriculture Act (EWA) will set aside resources that will guarantee women farmers equitable resources that have never been provided and make new history to assist women farmers in the male-dominated agriculture industry.\u201d\n\nThe bill text for the \u201cEmpowering Women in Agriculture Act\u201d can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404658", "CASTOR CELEBRATES DEMOCRATS\u2019 HISTORIC ACTION TO LOWER DRUG PRICES FOR SENIORS", "2024-08-15", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor released the following statement on the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s first round of successful Medicare drug price negotiations that will greatly lower costs for seniors:\n\nThe 280,000 + Florida seniors who currently spend an average of $440 on a 30-day supply of Eliquis to prevent and treat blood clots will see a 56% discount, soon spending an average of $231. The 105,000+ Florida seniors who currently spend an average of $434 on Xarelto will see a 62% discount, soon spending an average of $197. Click here to see the full list of negotiated prices.\n\n\u201cThanks to House Democrats and the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s Inflation Reduction Act, negotiations between Medicare and drug companies for 10 of the most expensive prescription drugs has been finalized. For too long, Big Pharma was allowed to prioritize their profits over the best interests of the American people. Floridians with Medicare should never have to choose between putting food on the table or affording their life-saving prescription drugs,\u201d said Castor.\n\nCastor continued, \u201cThis is a people over politics moment \u2013 historic action to lower costs and make health care affordable and accessible for older Americans. I was proud to stand with President Biden at the White House two years ago when he signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. The law has lowered costs and improved the quality of life for countless Americans. And this is only the beginning! Negotiations will soon begin on the second round of up to 15 additional drugs.\n\n\u201cNo Republican voted for the Inflation Reduction Act and MAGA Republicans in Congress have tried to undo Medicare drug negotiations. Democrats are not going to let that happen. Americans are wise to the harmful plans for Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security under the Turmp Project 2025 agenda. Democrats are committed to growing the middle class, lowering costs and protecting and expanding these vital initiatives to meet the evolving needs of our nation. We must safeguard them against attempts to undermine their effectiveness.\u201d\n\nNegotiating lower prescription drug prices is just one of many actions that Democrats and the Biden-Harris Administration have taken to drive down the cost of health care, alongside capping the price of insulin at $35 a month, limiting out-of-pocket drug costs and providing no-cost vaccines for seniors. In Florida\u2019s fourteenth district, 2,300 Medicare beneficiaries now save on average $440 annually on their insulin.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-maxwell-frost-announces-over-3-million-returned-to-central-floridians-and-3000-cases-solved-via-offices-constituent-services", "Congressman Maxwell Frost Announces Over $3 Million Returned to Central Floridians and 3,000 Cases Solved Via Office\u2019s Constituent Services", "2024-08-13", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Maxwell Frost", "F000476", "frost.house.gov", "frost", "https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Frost\u2019s Office Has Also Sent Over 100,000 Responses Back to Constituents Who Contacted the Office Regarding Legislative Matters\n\nORLANDO, FL \u2014 Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL) announced that his office has helped return over $3 million in money owed to constituents of Florida's 10th Congressional District from various federal agencies.\n\nSince assuming office in January of last year, Congressman Frost's constituent services team has successfully resolved over 3,000 cases, including Social Security issues, passport assistance, immigration, tax services, and more.\n\nIn addition to Frost's constituent services accomplishments, the office has hit another major milestone by sending out over 100,000 responses to constituents who have called, emailed, or sent mail to the office about legislative matters. Input from constituents has played a crucial role in guiding the Congressman's legislative priorities.\n\n\"From securing a passport office in Orlando, delivering nearly $12 million in Community Project Funding, returning $3 million dollars, assisting over 3,000 constituents, and responding to over 100,000 constituents, we're delivering tangible results for Central Florida,\" said Congressman Frost. \"Under House Republican leadership, this has been one of the most unproductive sessions of Congress in history \u2014 but my office hasn't let any dysfunction stop us from getting work done. Our office is here to help everyday people cut through government red tape and build a better Central Florida that works for everybody. \"\n\nConstituents needing help with a federal agency can submit a request online at frost.house.gov or call the Congressman's Orlando office at 321-388-9808.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-announces-over-188-million-wifia-loan-upgrade-and-expand-water-services", "Soto Announces Over $188 Million WIFIA Loan to Upgrade and Expand Water Services in Central Florida", "2024-08-13", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Darren Soto", "S001200", "soto.house.gov", "soto", "https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "KISSIMMEE, FL \u2014 Today, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) was joined by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Deputy Assistant Administrator for Water Mae Wu in announcing a $188.3 million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act loan to the Toho Water Authority. With this WIFIA loan, the authority will modernize water infrastructure in Osceola and Polk Counties to help ensure a resilient water supply for over 450,000 residents.\n\n\"We are excited to announce that the Toho Water Authority has been awarded a major $188,290,418 Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act loan from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,\" said Rep. Soto. \"This critical federal funding will protect clean water, preserve our environment, and ensure sufficient water supply for our growing community. We are grateful to the U.S. EPA for their partnership and support in securing this impactful investment in Central Florida's water future.\"\n\n\u201cInvesting in our water infrastructure is one of the best ways to support healthy, thriving communities. I congratulate the Toho Water Authority for securing this $188.3 million low-interest federal loan that will support public health and environmental protection, population growth, and economic opportunity here in Central Florida,\u201d said U.S. EPA Deputy Assistant Administrator for Water Mae Wu. \u201cThrough this loan program and unprecedented funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Biden-Harris Administration is investing in America to strengthen drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure while creating good-paying jobs.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis loan will fund several key upgrades and expansions to the Tohopekaliga water infrastructure, including expanding multiple water treatment facilities and installing a series of water main and pump stations, which will reduce the communities\u2019 reliance on the Upper Floridian aquifer\u2019s supplies and improving the drinking water distribution system for this growing population,\u201d said C\u00e9sar Zapata, Acting Region 4 Deputy Administrator. \u201cThese improvements are not only about replacing outdated systems but also about implementing cutting-edge technologies that will enhance water quality, increase system resilience, and reduce operational costs. This means cleaner, more reliable water for residents of Polk and Osceola Counties and a stronger, more sustainable infrastructure for the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Toho nears completion of our $80 million dollar plus Accelerated Gravity Sewer Replacement Program made possible by our first WIFIA loan, we now embark on our Toho One Water Initiative and say thank you. Thank you to Congress for creating and continuing to fund WIFIA, providing an essential financing tool for the water sector. Thank you to our Florida delegation including Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott and Congressman Darren Soto for your service in Washington and your continued support of Toho. Thank you to the WIFIA staff for your partnership throughout the review and closing process,\u201d said CEO/Executive Director of the Toho Water Authority Todd Swingle. \u201cSupported by this WIFIA financing, Toho\u2019s One Water Initiative will deliver a portfolio of water projects to responsibly serve our rapidly growing Central Florida community in the years and decades to come.\u201d\n\nThe U.S. EPA\u2019s WIFIA program will support Toho Water Authority\u2019s One Water Program, which aims to ensure clean, safe drinking water for Central Florida, a region that projects continued growth and increases in demand for water. The program reduces reliance on fresh groundwater supplies by increasing the use of potable and non-potable water supplies. With this WIFIA loan, the authority plans to expand multiple water treatment facilities and install a series of water main and pump stations. It will also protect the environment by reducing effluent discharges and help meet the requirements of the state\u2019s Central Florida Water Initiative rule.\n\nThis $188.3 million loan is part of a master agreement between the U.S. EPA and the Toho Water Authority that will commit $292 million in WIFIA assistance to the authority for the One Water Program. The U.S. EPA\u2019s low-interest WIFIA loan will save the authority $47 million. Project construction and operation will create approximately 1,750 jobs.\n\nToho Water Authority previously received a $40 million WIFIA to help finance the Kissimmee Accelerated Gravity and Sewer Assessment and Rehabilitation Project, which is nearing completion.\n\nBackground\n\nEstablished by the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 2014, the WIFIA program is a federal loan program administered by the U.S. EPA. The WIFIA program aims to accelerate investment in the nation\u2019s water infrastructure by providing long-term, low-cost supplemental credit assistance for regionally and nationally significant projects. The WIFIA program has an active pipeline of pending applications for projects that will result in billions of dollars in water infrastructure investment and thousands of jobs.\n\nSince its creation, the U.S. EPA\u2019s WIFIA program has announced over $20 billion in financing to support $44 billion in water infrastructure projects that are strengthening drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure while creating approximately 150,000 jobs.\n\nThe U.S. EPA is currently in its seventh selection round for WIFIA financing. In this round, the U.S. EPA is offering $6.5 billion through WIFIA, and $1 billion through SWIFIA, which is a loan program exclusively for state infrastructure financing authority borrowers. The U.S. EPA is currently accepting letters of interest for WIFIA and SWIFIA loans.\n\nIn addition to WIFIA loans, there are many federal funding resources available for communities and utilities to improve vital water and wastewater resources. President Joe Biden\u2019s Infrastructure Law is a once-in-a-generation investment in our nation\u2019s infrastructure and competitiveness.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-cherfilus-mccormick-commends-biden-harris-administration", "Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick Commends the Biden-Harris Administration for their Impactful Changes to the HUD-VASH Program", "2024-08-08", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick", "C001127", "cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov", "cherfilus-mccormick", "https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "TAMARAC, FL - Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick issued the following statement on the new HUD-VASH policy changes.\n\n\u201cThe changes made by the Biden-Harris administration to the HUD-VASH program are much needed. I am glad to see their efforts to broaden access to essential benefits for the men and women who have served our country with honor. For too long, veterans in need have been unable to participate in the HUD-VASH program due to a nonsensical income threshold that regarded service-connected disability benefits as income. By revising the definition of income to include VA benefits and by increasing the income threshold to 80% of AMI, more veterans will now be eligible for rental assistance and additional supportive services than ever before. I commend these steps taken by the Biden-Harris administration. I will continue to work diligently to ensure that all veterans are informed about these changes and can access the benefits they have rightfully earned.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404644", "Reps. Castor, Levin, SEEC Urge EPA to Adopt Robust Power Plant Standards", "2024-08-05", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) Members Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14) and Mike Levin (CA-49) along with the SEEC Co-Chairs \u2014 Reps. Doris Matsui (CA-7), Mike Quigley (IL-5), and Paul Tonko (NY-20) \u2014led a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael S. Regan, urging the agency to adopt strong, comprehensive standards for existing gas-fired power plants. These five members were joined by 86 of their House colleagues in signing the letter. This follows a March 2023 and July 2023 letter that the SEEC leaders sent in support of strong limits for fossil fuel-fired power plant pollution through EPA\u2019s authority under Section 111 of the Clean Air Act.\n\n\u201cWe appreciate EPA\u2019s commitment to setting meaningful and comprehensive pollution standards for our nation\u2019s power plants, and respectfully urge you to adopt final rules on existing gas-fired power plants that include the strongest possible standards to limit greenhouse gases and other pollutants,\u201d the members wrote. \u201cIn particular, these rules must take a comprehensive approach to the existing gas fleet by addressing all types of gas plants and their cumulative impacts, as well as the full spectrum of air pollution. Further, we urge you to conduct robust stakeholder engagement as part of this process\u2014including among impacted workers and frontline and environmental justice communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cOver the last four years, EPA has made immense progress towards securing a more equitable and climate-friendly future for our nation. We look forward to working with you to build on this momentum and securing the strongest possible standards to limit pollution from existing gas power plants.\u201d\n\nIn April, EPA finalized impactful greenhouse gas emissions standards for new gas and existing coal power plants that will curb 1.38 billion metric tons of carbon pollution through 2047 and provide hundreds of billions of dollars in health and climate benefits. The agency is now taking major steps this year to build on this progress by advancing emissions standards for existing gas power plants, a major source of climate-warming pollution and air toxics that threaten human health.\n\nThe letter can be found below and here.\n\nThe Honorable Michael S. Regan\n\nAdministrator\n\nU.S. Environmental Protection Agency\n\n1200 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W.\n\nWashington, DC 20460\n\nDear Administrator Regan:\n\nWe commend the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Biden Administration for\n\ntaking significant steps to cut harmful pollution across the U.S. economy and deliver cleaner air and water for American families. We also appreciate EPA\u2019s commitment to setting meaningful and comprehensive pollution standards for our nation\u2019s power plants, and respectfully urge you to adopt final rules on existing gas-fired power plants that include the strongest possible standards to limit greenhouse gases and other pollutants. In particular, these rules must take a comprehensive approach to the existing gas fleet by addressing all types of gas plants and their cumulative impacts, as well as the full spectrum of air pollution. Further, we urge you to conduct robust stakeholder engagement as part of this process\u2014including among impacted workers and frontline and environmental justice communities.\n\nEPA\u2019s final rule setting impactful limits on greenhouse gas pollution for new gas and existing coal power plants is a critical achievement that will curb 1.38 billion metric tons of carbon pollution through 2047 and provide hundreds of billions of dollars in health and climate benefits. This important work will not be complete, however, unless similarly ambitious rules are extended to cover the existing gas-fired fleet.\n\nWe applaud the agency for taking the first step of opening a non-regulatory public docket on this topic to ensure the EPA hears from all of the necessary stakeholders about how the agency can design a strong, durable, and comprehensive approach to regulating the existing gas-fired fleet. We agree with the goals you laid out in announcing this docket, including to take a \"comprehensive approach to cover the entire fleet of natural gas-fired turbines, as well as cover more pollutants including climate, toxic and criteria air pollution.\"\n\nExisting gas-fired power plants emit significant planet-warming pollution that is fueling the climate crisis. The power sector as a whole is the largest stationary source of carbon dioxide emissions in the United States, and, in 2022, gas-fired power plants accounted for 45 percent of power sector carbon pollution. As emissions from other sources fall, EPA projects existing gas plants\u2019 share of power sector greenhouse gas emissions to grow to 74 percent by 2035 in its baseline. Notably, one analysis found that an EPA framework that addresses greenhouse gas emissions from only existing coal and new gas facilities\u2014while omitting existing gas plants from regulation\u2014would leave more than half of the potential emissions reductions on the table.\n\nIn addition to carbon dioxide, the combustion of natural gas releases toxic pollutants into the atmosphere, including: nitrogen oxides; carbon monoxide; volatile organic compounds; and hazardous air pollutants including formaldehyde, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, benzene, toluene, xylenes, and others. Critically, exposure to air toxics, which disproportionately endanger frontline communities of color, is proven to cause cancer, respiratory illness, and other adverse health outcomes.\n\nThese public health impacts\u2014and the urgency of the climate crisis\u2014compel EPA to regulate existing gas-fired power plants. EPA has the authority and the obligation to do so under the Clean Air Act, which aims to protect Americans from pollution sources that cause, or significantly contribute to, air pollution that endangers public health or welfare. Adopting the strongest possible emissions standards for existing gas plants, we believe, is essential to achieving President Biden\u2019s environmental justice goals, as well as his targets of cutting U.S. climate pollution in half by 2030 and having a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035.\n\nAs EPA moves forward with formulating strong, comprehensive standards to cover the fleet of existing gas plants, the agency must obtain meaningful feedback from stakeholders, including environmental, labor, and environmental justice organizations, and engage frontline communities around the U.S. most impacted by the fossil fuel economy. Any standards proposed by EPA should address the cumulative impacts of pollution, particularly for frontline and environmental justice communities. Further, the agency\u2019s comprehensive approach to regulating pollution from existing gas power plants should fulfill all Clean Air Act requirements for both greenhouse gas emissions and for other pollutants, address the entirety of the existing gas fleet, and significantly reduce carbon pollution.\n\nThank you for your steadfast leadership. Over the last four years, EPA has made immense progress towards securing a more equitable and climate-friendly future for our nation. We look forward to working with you to build on this momentum and securing the strongest possible standards to limit pollution from existing gas power plants.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3746", "Reps. Frankel, Khanna, Fitzpatrick, Landsman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Reporting and Investigating of Sexual Assault on College Campuses", "2024-08-05", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Lois Frankel", "F000462", "frankel.house.gov", "frankel", "https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Last week, Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL-22), Ro Khanna (D-CA-47), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), and Greg Landsman (D-OH-01) introduced the Campus Accountability and Safety Act (CASA), which would reform the way institutions of higher education address and report incidents of sexual assault, sexual harassment, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking that occur on campuses and ensure a uniform and fair process for investigating and conducting campus disciplinary proceedings.\n\n\u201cStudents can't learn if they don't feel safe. Sexual harassment, sexual violence, and stalking are widespread issues on college campuses, and survivors of these traumas must have access to resources to support them and hold abusers accountable,\u201d said Rep. Frankel. \u201cI'm proud to co-lead this effort to make our colleges a safer place for all.\u201d\n\n\u201cOne in five women and one in sixteen men experience sexual assault on college campuses. Due to stigma and complex systems, many survivors don\u2019t report sexual violence, much less pursue justice through their university\u2019s system, and many perpetrators are never held accountable,\u201d said Rep. Khanna. \u201cI\u2019m proud to lead this bipartisan bill with my colleagues to increase transparency, provide resources for survivors, and reduce barriers in the reporting process.\u201d\n\n\u201cSexual assault on college campuses continues to be a crisis that demands our immediate action. And, as with all crimes, weak enforcement and insufficient accountability only embolden perpetrators to act with impunity,\u201d said Rep. Fitzpatrick. \u201cThis bipartisan, bicameral legislation is a commitment to our students that we are taking action: action to ensure their safety and action to hold our educational institutions accountable by transforming how sexual assault and violence are handled and addressed. By demanding greater transparency, enforcing stringent accountability measures, and providing essential resources and support to victims, we can eliminate the toxic culture of inaction that has plagued our campuses for too long and create a safer environment for our students.\u201d\n\n\u201cSexual assault on college campuses remains a major and pervasive problem, but Congress has not taken the necessary action to address it,\u201d said Senator Gillibrand. \u201cThe bipartisan Campus Accountability and Safety Act would reform how institutions of higher learning address and report incident of sexual assault and would dedicate new resources to survivors. This important measure would increase accountability and ensure a fair process for campus disciplinary action.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, this bill would:\n\nCreate Sexual and Interpersonal Violence Specialist positions at each institution to serve as a confidential aide to survivors and provide information and guidance for reporting the event to campus authorities;\n\nIncrease transparency and reporting requirements under the Jeanne Clery Disclosure Act by mandating that the institution\u2019s website include campus safety policies, instructions for filing a complaint, and statistics of sexual misconduct allegations on campus;\n\nEnsure that individuals who report sexual misconduct in good faith are not punished for any physical violence or assault as a defense, or alcohol or drug use that is revealed by that report;\n\nRequire that each institution use a uniform disciplinary process, prohibiting the use of separate and disparate processes based on the status of students involved in a report, such as their membership on an athletic team;\n\nExpand the VAWA Campus Grant Program to address sexual harassment; and\n\nRequire the Comptroller General to study the effectiveness of VAWA grants and submit a report to Congress within 2 years of enactment.\n\nIncidents of sexual assault, sexual harassment, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking are a critical public safety and health issue that impacts many people, particularly college and university students. According to the most recently available data from the U.S. Department of Education's Campus Safety Survey, there were 12,225 sexual criminal offenses reported on college campuses in 2022. Additionally, approximately 16,600 offenses under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) were reported by college campuses in 2022 \u2013 this includes incidents of stalking, domestic violence, and dating violence. However, the number of cases reported is said to be significantly underestimated due to individual and institutional barriers to reporting and the stigma encompassing sexual assault.\n\nSens. Gillibrand (D-NY) and Grassley (R-IA) are co-leading the Senate version of this bill.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3749", "Rep. Frankel Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Remove Tax Penalty on Payments to Survivors of Sexual Violence", "2024-08-05", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Lois Frankel", "F000462", "frankel.house.gov", "frankel", "https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL-22) and Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24) have introduced the Tax Fairness for Survivors Act, a bipartisan bill designed to remove the tax penalty on settlements, awards, and judgments paid to survivors of sexual harassment and assault. Current law exempts payments for damages due to physical and emotional injuries from physical injury cases from taxation. However, payments from sexual harassment and assault lawsuits are taxed as income unless the survivor can prove additional physical harm. This means that if a rape survivor does not show visible physical injuries like bruises or broken bones, their settlements are taxed. This tax applies even if the survivor misses work, leaves their job, or seeks mental health support.\n\n\u201cSurvivors of sexual harassment and assault deserve fair treatment under the law,\u201d said Rep. Frankel. \u201cIt is unacceptable for a woman who has been raped, who endures immense pain and trauma, or who had to quit her job to escape harassment, to face further tax burdens on the compensation she rightfully deserves. This bill ensures survivors receive equal treatment regarding their payments.\u201d\n\n\u201cCurrently, loopholes in our tax system fail survivors of sexual harassment and assault, penalizing survivors,\u201d said Rep. Tenney. \u201cThe Tax Fairness for Survivors Act provides a common-sense solution that would eliminate the tax penalty on survivors by creating parity and exempting settlements and judgments from sexual harassment or assault claims from any income taxes. Thank you to Representative Frankel for joining me in these efforts to support survivors.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs survivors of sexual misconduct in the workplace at Fox News, we know better than anyone that any award received upon settlement is not just for suffering through some of the most toxic workplace behavior imaginable, but also for income lost when one\u2019s job is terminated for doing nothing wrong except courageously coming forward to say something is wrong,\u201d said Gretchen Carlson and Julie Roginsky, Co-Founders, Lift Our Voices. \u201cAwards should never be treated as part of regular income, since it is certainly not part of anyone's regular job responsibility to be sexually harassed or assaulted.\"\n\nFor full text of the bill, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3233", "Wasserman Schultz, D\u00edaz-Balart Lead Bipartisan Effort to Denounce Maduro\u2019s Election Fraud, Press for Peaceful Transition of Power", "2024-08-02", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington DC \u2013 Today, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) and Mario D\u00edaz-Balart (FL-26), co-chairs of Congressional Venezuela Democracy Caucus, filed a bipartisan House resolution to make clear that the United States Congress is \u201cstanding in solidarity with the Venezuelan people and condemning Nicol\u00e1s Maduro\u2019s attempt to steal the Venezuelan Presidential election.\u201d\n\nThe resolution recognizes Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez as the rightful president-elect of Venezuela, denounces Maduro\u2019s election fraud and violent repression of democracy protesters, and calls for new U.S. sanctions and international pressure to push Maduro to accept the will of the Venezuelan people and allow a peaceful transition of power.\n\nThey were joined by 28 bipartisan colleagues, including Reps. Frederica Wilson, Michael McCaul, Darren Soto, Carlos Gimenez, Kathy Castor, Michael Waltz, Jared Moskowitz, Maria Salazar, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Brian Mast, Lois Frankel, Chris Smith, Sylvia Garcia, Alex Mooney, Dina Titus, Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon, Jim Costa, Bill Huizenga, Daniel Goldman, Guy Reschenthaler, Ruben Gallego, Brad Schneider, Vicente Gonzalez, Gerry Connolly, Andy Kim, Juan Vargas, Kathy Manning, and Norma Torres.\n\n\u201cVenezuelans courageously took to the ballot box to seek true, legitimate representation after a lost decade under Maduro,\u201d said Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz. \u201cAnd despite enormous barriers and personal risk, overwhelming majorities across the nation repudiated Maduro and chose democracy. Yet this brutal narco-regime refuses to face reality, despite clear evidence proving Maduro\u2019s loss. The violent repression of protestors\u2019 demands for democracy must end and a peaceful transfer of power must begin. The Biden-Harris Administration successfully forced Maduro to hold this election. Now we must bring pressure to bear on Maduro and his cronies to respect the will of the Venezuelan people, or face the consequences.\u201d\n\n\u201cDespite the grip of totalitarian rule, the people of Venezuela refuse to let democracy die. Now more than ever, the United States must strengthen measures against the dangerous, anti-American Maduro regime, which is closely allied to every U.S. adversary working against our national security interests,\u201d said Congressman D\u00edaz-Balart. \u201cInstead, the United States must stand in solidarity with the brave Venezuelan people who are struggling for democracy and freedom from Maduro\u2019s brutal tyranny. The regime has been murdering and imprisoning pro-democracy protesters, yet the opposition stands strong. This is not only a pivotal moment for Venezuela, but also for those across our hemisphere and around the world who are struggling for basic human rights under repressive regimes \u2014 regimes that are aided by the Maduro dictatorship.\u201d\n\nThe full text of the resolution can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3234", "Wasserman Schultz y D\u00edaz-Balart lideran esfuerzo bipartidista para denunciar el fraude electoral de Maduro y presionar por una transici\u00f3n pac\u00edfica del poder", "2024-08-02", "2024", "2024-08", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Debbie Wasserman Schultz", "W000797", "wassermanschultz.house.gov", "wassermanschultz", "https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "Washington D.C. \u2013 Hoy los legisladores Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) y Mario D\u00edaz-Balart (FL-26), co-presidentes del Comit\u00e9 Parlamentario a favor de la Democracia en Venezuela, presentaron una resoluci\u00f3n bipartidista en la C\u00e1mara de Representantes para dejar claro que el Congreso de Estados Unidos est\u00e1 en \u201csolidaridad con el pueblo venezolano y condena el intento de Nicol\u00e1s Maduro de robar la elecci\u00f3n presidencial venezolana\u201d.\n\nLa resoluci\u00f3n reconoce a Edmundo Gonz\u00e1lez como el leg\u00edtimo presidente electo de Venezuela, denuncia el fraude electoral de Maduro y la represi\u00f3n violenta a los manifestantes prodemocracia y pide nuevas sanciones americanas y presi\u00f3n internacional para obligar a Maduro a aceptar la voluntad del pueblo venezolano y permitir una transici\u00f3n pac\u00edfica de poder.\n\nFueron acompa\u00f1ados por 28 colegas bipartidistas, incluyendo los legisladores Frederica Wilson, Michael McCaul, Darren Soto, Carlos Gimenez, Kathy Castor, Michael Waltz, Jared Moskowitz, Maria Salazar, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Brian Mast, Lois Frankel, Chris Smith, Sylvia Garcia, Alex Mooney, Dina Titus, Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon, Jim Costa, Bill Huizenga, Daniel Goldman, Guy Reschenthaler, Ruben Gallego, Brad Schneider, Vicente Gonzalez, Gerry Connolly, Andy Kim, Juan Vargas, Kathy Manning, y Norma Torres.\n\n\u201cLos venezolanos valientemente salieron a las urnas para buscar una representaci\u00f3n verdadera y leg\u00edtima despu\u00e9s de una d\u00e9cada perdida bajo Maduro\u201d, dijo la congresista Wasserman Schultz. \u201cY a pesar de enormes barreras y riesgos personales, abrumadoras mayor\u00edas en todo el pa\u00eds repudiaron a Maduro y eligieron la democracia. Sin embargo, este brutal narcor\u00e9gimen se niega a enfrentar la realidad, a pesar de la clara evidencia que demuestra la derrota de Maduro. La violeta represi\u00f3n contra los manifestantes en su demanda por la democracia debe terminar y debe comenzar una transici\u00f3n pac\u00edfica del poder. La Administraci\u00f3n Biden-Harris oblig\u00f3 con \u00e9xito a Maduro a realizar estas elecciones. Ahora tenemos que presionar a Maduro y sus matones para que respeten la voluntad del pueblo venezolano, o enfrenten las consecuencias\u201d\n\n\u201cA pesar del dominio del r\u00e9gimen totalitario de Maduro, el pueblo venezolano se niega a permitir que la democracia muera. Ahora m\u00e1s que nunca, Estados Unidos debe fortalecer las medidas contra el peligroso r\u00e9gimen antiamericano de Maduro, que est\u00e1 estrechamente aliado con todos los adversarios de Estados Unidos y que trabajan en contra de nuestros intereses de seguridad nacional\u201d, dijo el legislador Mario D\u00edaz-Balart. \u201cEstados Unidos debe solidarizarse con el valiente pueblo venezolano que lucha por la democracia y la libertad de la brutal tiran\u00eda de Maduro. Aunque el r\u00e9gimen asesina y encarcela a manifestantes prodemocracia, la oposici\u00f3n se mantiene firme. Este no es solo un momento crucial para Venezuela, sino tambi\u00e9n para aquellos en todo nuestro hemisferio y alrededor del mundo que luchan por los derechos humanos b\u00e1sicos bajo reg\u00edmenes represivos, los mismos reg\u00edmenes que son apoyados por la dictadura de Maduro\u201d.\n\nEl texto complete de la resoluci\u00f3n se puede accesar aqu\u00ed.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:36:13Z"], ["https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404640", "U.S. Rep. Castor Applauds Senate Passage of Stronger Protections for Kids Online", "2024-07-30", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Kathy Castor", "C001066", "castor.house.gov", "castor", "https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor released the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed companion legislation to her Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and her Children and Teens\u2019 Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0) in a bipartisan vote of 91-3:\n\n\u201cFor years, I have sounded the alarm about the manipulative and predatory practices of Big Tech platforms that profit off our kids\u2019 data and risk exposing them to harmful content. I introduced the bipartisan COPPA 2.0 and KOSA in the House to give young people a fighting chance to avoid dangerous online content and situations that have imperiled their lives and privacy. Research unequivocally shows that our increasingly digital world is hazardous for children, with popular apps pushing kids to spend unhealthy amounts of time on their devices, severely affecting their mental health. Congress must establish and strengthen safeguards to protect kids\u2019 data, end the incessant surveillance of children, address addictive design features and require transparency in algorithms.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s kids can\u2019t afford for us to continue waiting to get them the online protections they need and deserve. I urge swift action in the House and encourage my colleagues to support COPPA 2.0 and KOSA.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"], ["https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-maxwell-frost-secures-153-million-in-funding-for-critical-central-florida-projects-as-appropriations-bills-head-to-house-floor", "Congressman Maxwell Frost Secures $15.3 Million in Funding For Critical Central Florida Projects As Appropriations Bills Head to House Floor", "2024-07-29", "2024", "2024-07", "Democrat", "House", "FL", "Maxwell Frost", "F000476", "frost.house.gov", "frost", "https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Frost Was Successful in Getting All 15 of His Project Funding Requests Included in FY 25 Appropriations Bills\n\nVIEW THE PROJECTS ON OUR INTERACTIVE MAP HERE\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) announced that all 15 of his Community Project Funding requests have been successfully voted out of the Appropriations Committee, bringing the Congressman one step closer to delivering over $15.3 million for critical projects across Central Florida.\n\nSince January, Congressman Frost\u2019s office has worked closely with local community partners and stakeholders to submit funding proposals for 15 comprehensive projects to support a wide range of efforts from affordable housing to infrastructure and transportation.\n\nSome of the landmark projects included in Frost\u2019s requests are:\n\n$5.5 million for the Town of Eatonville.\n\nOver $2.2 million for the Orlando Housing Authority.\n\n$1.3 million for the Orange County Government.\n\n$850,000 for Pine Hills.\n\nAnd $500,000 for Lake Eola improvements.\n\nThe projects were included as part of the final bill text in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies bills. The legislation must still be voted on in the House and passed by the Senate before heading to the President\u2019s desk and becoming law.\n\nLast year, Congressman Frost secured nearly $12 million for projects across the Orlando area, including million for transportation improvements, affordable housing programs, and community violence intervention efforts to help curb gun violence.\n\n\u201cNo matter the gridlock in Washington, I made a promise to the people of Central Florida that I would do everything in my power to unlock federal dollars and help change our community for the better,\u201d said Congressman Maxwell Frost. \u201cThis $15.3 million is a commitment to that promise. Whether it's fighting for more housing dollars, fixing our roads and public transportation, or taking care of our parks \u2013 I won\u2019t stop fighting to bring home every dollar possible.\u201d\n\n\u201cBefore finishing even his first term in Washington, Congressman Frost has already shown that he can effectively return taxpayer dollars to work for us here in Central Florida. The City of Orlando is thankful for the Congressman's support and hard work and we really appreciate that he shares our commitment to preserving and enhancing the parks and greenspace that make The City Beautiful,\u201d said Mayor Buddy Dyer.\n\nCongressman Frost was able to secure the following in the Appropriations bills voted out of Committee:\n\n$5,500,000 for two projects for the Town of Eatonville to help the municipality update a community center into a place where local folks can access the internet with a computer lab and assist with workforce development classes, and to revitalize the main corridor in town, the East Kennedy Streetscape by installing sod, landscaping, lighting, and more.\n\n$2,224,000 for two Orlando Housing Authority projects to replace a roof, install security cameras and other safety features for a local public housing community and to add an elevator and install accessibility enhancement to showers \u2013 all to support low income families, seniors, and disabled adults who rely on this housing.\n\n$1,355,800 for two projects for the Orange County Government to remove arsenic from the water recovered from the Aquifer Storage Recovery well and to buy property to preserve environmentally important lands like wetlands, wildlife, and plant resources.\n\n$1,000,000 for the City of Maitland to reconstruct and improve Keller Road, including adding a bicycle and pedestrian trail.\n\n$850,000 for an innovation lab in Pine Hills to purchase equipment to support the lab and help improve workforce readiness, support job placement help, and local entrepreneurs.\n\n$850,000 for the LYNX Central Station to reconstruct and fix bus bays and update signage to include dependable, real-time departure information.\n\n$850,000 to the University of Central Florida to support their cutting edge work and help establish a mini hydrogen hub that can train and educate the next generation of hydrogen fuel workforce.\n\n$850,000 to Valencia College to replace the leaky roof on their campus building which houses the VCentials Pantry.\n\n$850,000 to the City of Winter Park\u2019s Housing Authority to make repairs at a local senior community including roof repairs and improvements to their elevator system and courtyard.\n\n$750,000 to the City of Orlando for a Lake Eola Park Improvement Project to make stormwater treatment improvements to the lake and accessibility improvements to the park. And to improve Lake Druid park, including more shade, constructing a public bathroom, and light fixtures.\n\n$250,000 to the City of Winter Park to make updates to Pennsylvania Avenue, including fixing road foundation issues and replacing, repairing, and reinstalling bricks.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:24:45Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 345, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"party\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Democrat", "p1": "FL", "p2": "2024"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=FL&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 345, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=FL&year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=FL&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 345, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=FL&year=2024&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=FL&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "FL", "label": "FL", "count": 345, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=FL&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "2024", "label": "2024", "count": 345, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=FL", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2024-07-29,https~3A~2F~2Ffrost~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fcongressman-maxwell-frost-secures-153-million-in-funding-for-critical-central-florida-projects-as-appropriations-bills-head-to-house-floor", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=FL&year=2024&_next=2024-07-29%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Ffrost~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fcongressman-maxwell-frost-secures-153-million-in-funding-for-critical-central-florida-projects-as-appropriations-bills-head-to-house-floor&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 497.28894373402, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}