{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\", state = \"FL\" and year = 2021 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-gets-another-win", "Buchanan Gets Another Win!", "2021-12-27", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Vern Buchanan", "B001260", "buchanan.house.gov", "buchanan", "https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Vern Buchanan today announced that his proposal to implement a series of sweeping new military training reforms has been signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This marks Buchanan\u2019s 24th legislative initiative to be signed into law since he first came to Congress in 2007.\n\nBuchanan has been a leading advocate in Congress for reforming our current training procedures and improving emergency response capabilities after the tragic death of Army Specialist Nicholas Panipinto of Bradenton. Panipinto died in a vehicle training accident in South Korea in 2019.\n\n\u201cThe death of Specialist Panipinto is a tragedy that never should have happened,\u201d said Buchanan. \u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019m committed to doing everything I can to make sure that no other family has to endure similar heartache. The greatest tribute we can pay to Nick is to ensure that future and entirely preventable military training accidents never happen again.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the legislation requires the Pentagon to:\n\nImplement more realistic training practices\n\nDevelop stricter enforcement standards\n\nAnd ensure better oversight to prevent future military training accidents and deaths.\n\nBuchanan introduced the legislation as a standalone bill (H.R. 5268) and as an amendment to the NDAA following a report from the government\u2019s top watchdog office that found a lack of driver training and failures to properly oversee and implement key safety procedures were largely to blame for several fatal training accidents. Buchanan\u2019s proposal closely mirrors a provision included in the final version of the NDAA, which President Biden signed into law on Monday. The NDAA overwhelmingly passed the U.S. House and Senate by votes of 363-70 and 88-11, respectively.\n\nAccording to Panipinto\u2019s mother, Kimberly Weaver, Panipinto did not have a license, the required amount of driver training or any classroom instruction before beginning his road-test.\n\n\u201cThe devastating loss of Nicholas was compounded by the fact that it was totally preventable,\" said Weaver. \"I am hopeful that when implemented these reforms will help prevent another tragic loss. In the meantime, I am forever grateful to Congressman Buchanan for continuing to push for necessary military training reforms to protect service members.\u201d\n\nThis is the second Buchanan measure related to military training accidents that Buchanan has had signed into law. Last year, Buchanan successfully offered another amendment to the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act that required the Department of Defense to examine emergency response capabilities and services currently available at U.S. bases around the world, and to report to Congress on the potential benefits and feasibility of requiring bases to have properly functioning MedEvac helicopters and fully stocked military ambulances.\n\nLast Congress Buchanan had six of his legislative initiatives enacted into law, bringing the total number of legislative initiatives he has passed since taking office in 2007 to 24.\n\nBuchanan has also authored three amendments that successfully passed the U.S. House earlier this year that he will continue to push to be enacted into law. The three amendments would curb veteran suicides, examine surging manatee deaths and combat drug overdoses.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-lauds-air-force-decision-designate-macdill-main-operation-base-kc-46", "Bilirakis Lauds Air Force Decision to Designate MacDill as Main Operation Base for KC-46 Pegasus", "2021-12-23", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Palm Harbor: U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis applauds the United States Air Force's recent decision to select MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa as its home base for 24 new KC-46 Pegasus tankers. MacDill Air Force Base is already home to 28 associate units from all branches of the military, including: U.S. Central Command, U.S. Special Operations Command and the 927th Air Refueling Wing. The diverse human and technological resources needed to support these vital operations uniquely benefits the Tampa Bay area, and the community recognizes the significance contributions the base makes to the region. According to the Air Force, the decision to place the Pegasus program at MacDill was made after conducting site surveys that evaluated a variety of factors associated with each potential base, including: mission, infrastructure capacity, community support, cost and environment considerations.\n\n\"There is no where in the country that supports its military community more than Tampa Bay,\" said local Congressman Gus Bilirakis. \"We recognize MacDill as a key community asset and support the men and women stationed there who bravely serve our nation. This new program will serve as an important catalyst for continued economic development and we welcome it to our area.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-joins-wwii-veteran-constituent-in-celebration-of-100th-birthday/", "Rep. Steube Joins WWII Veteran Constituent In Celebration of 100th Birthday", "2021-12-22", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "W. Gregory Steube", "S001214", "steube.house.gov", "steube", "https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Rep. Steube Joins WWII Veteran Constituent In Celebration of 100th Birthday\n\nPUNTA GORDA, FLA.\u2014 Yesterday, U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) recognized WWII veteran constituent, Walter Neef, in celebration of his 100th birthday.\n\n\u201cWalter is a proud patriotic American of the Greatest Generation who I am honored to represent in Congress,\u201d said Congressman Steube. \u201cThis district is blessed to have incredible veterans like Walter who have dedicated so much to this country. As we celebrate his 100th birthday, let us always remember the sacrifices Walter and his generation made to preserve the freedoms we enjoy today.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=283", "Franklin Congratulates MacDill Air Force Base on Being Selected to Base KC-46 Tanker Aircraft", "2021-12-21", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Scott Franklin", "F000472", "franklin.house.gov", "franklin", "https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, congratulated MacDill Air Force Base on being selected by the Secretary of the Air Force as the next Main Operating Base (MOB) for 24 new KC-46 Pegasus tankers. The U.S Air Force previously identified MacDill and Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington state as the top two candidates for the new KC-46s. Rep. Franklin helped lead a letter in June with the entire bipartisan Florida Congressional Delegation urging Air Force Secretary John P. Roth to select MacDill as the next MOB for the tankers.\n\n\u201cMacDill is the right choice for the KC-46\u2019s new operating base,\u201d said Rep. Franklin. \u201cIt is home to 33 mission partner units from all branches of service, including U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command, making it an ideal setting for these aircraft. The KC-135 Stratotanker has been a work horse in support of military aviation since the mid-1950\u2019s, but its time had passed. When I was a young Naval Aviator over 30 years ago, we were already looking eagerly to its replacement. That time has finally arrived, and I\u2019m proud to know that MacDill will be the new home for the KC-46. The Tampa Bay area is highly respected for its support of our servicemembers and their families. I look forward to welcoming more of them to our community with the selection.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammack-names-man-steel-duane-dewey-fl-03-2021-veteran-year", "Congresswoman Kat Cammack Names 'Man Of Steel' Duane Dewey FL-03  2021 Veteran Of The Year", "2021-12-20", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Kat Cammack", "C001039", "cammack.house.gov", "cammack", "https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "GAINESVILLE, FL \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack announced this year's Veteran of the Year as Mr. Duane Dewey, a Medal of Honor recipient, for his courageous actions during the Korean War in 1952.\n\nKnown as the \"Man of Steel\" in Florida's Third Congressional District, Corporal Duane Edgar Dewey received the Medal of Honor in March 1953 from President Dwight D. Eisenhower following his heroic actions near Panmunjom, Korea with the machine gun platoon of Company E of the United States Marine Corps.\n\nWhen an enemy grenade landed close to his position while he and his assistant gunner received medical attention for their wounds during a night attack, Corporal Dewey pulled his fellow corpsman to the ground, shouted a warning to the other Marines around him, and bravely smothered the deadly missile with his body, personally absorbing the full force of the explosion to save the lives of those around him. When accepting the Medal of Honor from President Eisenhower after significant months of recuperation, the president joked, \"you must be made of steel,\" and the nickname stuck.\n\nCorporal Dewey was a fixture in the North Central Florida community, where he spent several months out of the year when not in his home state of Michigan. He was a member of the Korean War Veterans Association in Gainesville and known for his friendship, bravery, and support of his fellow veterans, often bashful about his service record to the point that few even knew they were in the presence of a recognized hero.\n\n\"It is only fitting that the inaugural Veteran of the Year is one of the bravest men to have served our country,\" said Rep. Cammack. \"During an incredibly harrowing time, Cpl. Dewey willingly sacrificed himself to save the lives of the men around him, setting a tremendous example for service and bravery. We were so lucky to have him in our part of Florida for many years, and I know we will continue to miss him dearly. Thank you, sir.\"\n\nCorporal Dewey passed away earlier this year in St. Augustine, Florida on October 11. He is survived by two children, two grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and dozens of family members and friends.\n\nCongresswoman Cammack has flown a flag over the U.S. Capitol in Corporal Dewey's memory, entered his courageous story into the Congressional Record, and will honor him in a speech on the House Floor in January.\n\nCongresswoman Cammack thanks the community for submitting their entries for this year's Veteran of the Year award and looks forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FC3EAB99-E882-42BE-A3C2-DC6DF6F3ABA1", "Webster & Signs Amicus Brief in Support of Navy Service Members Seeking Religious Accommodations for the Department of Defense\u2019s COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate", "2021-12-20", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont joined Constitutional law litigator Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04) and 37 House Republicans today in filing an Amicus Brief before the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas in support of 35 Navy service members seeking religious accommodations for the Department of Defense\u2019s COVID-19 vaccine mandate.\n\nThe brief states: \u201cThe very first clause of the very First Amendment explicitly states that \u2018Congress shall make no law\u2026 prohibiting the free exercise\u2019 of religion. This amendment, case law, and Congress\u2019s decision to pass the Religious Freedom Restoration Act all testify to the fact that, without entrenched, generally applicable, and judicially enforceable protections for religious liberty, lawmakers and government bureaucrats are susceptible to override sincere religious beliefs in favor of what they mistakenly see as the greater good. That is what is happening with Defendants\u2019 vaccine mandate.\u201d\n\nThe brief continues: \u201cPlaintiffs\u2019 religious liberty and the government\u2019s asserted interest in protecting our service members from COVID-19 need not be in conflict, especially where, as here, the individuals seeking an exemption are willing to adopt non-vaccination measures to protect themselves and others from the spread of COVID-19.\u201d\n\nThe brief concludes: \u201cIndeed, the impact on the military and our national security strongly counsels in favor of granting a preliminary injunction. The mandate is sidelining the deployment of soldiers on whose service our country relies. If this mandate (as currently being applied or threatened) is not enjoined, these Plaintiffs cannot fulfill their pledge to serve and defend our country, even though, based upon their training and experience, these Plaintiffs, as well as others similarly situated, are some of our most qualified, equipped, and fearless soldiers\u2026 Now they ask this Court to protect their religious freedom from encroachment by the very government they have sworn to protect with their lives.\n\n\u201cIf the mandate stands, it is likely, then, that it will be more difficult for our military to recruit highly qualified individuals of faith to serve our country\u2014a consequence that is wholly unnecessary, damaging to our military\u2019s morale, and damaging to our national security.\u201d\n\nThe plaintiffs have sued the Department of Defense over the department\u2019s COVID-19 vaccine mandate in a Texas federal court claiming that the mandate infringes upon their religious freedom rights.\n\nClick here to read the brief.\n\nRepresentative Mike Johnson (LA) led the brief and Representatives Rick Allen (GA), Brian Babin (TX), Jack Bergman (MI), Andy Biggs (AZ), Dan Bishop (NC), Mo Brooks (AL), Lauren Boebert (CO), Kat Cammack (FL), Andrew Clyde (GA), Warren Davidson (OH), Rodney Davis (IL), Jeff Duncan (SC), Bob Gibbs (OH), Louie Gohmert (TX), Bob Good (VA), Paul Gosar (AZ), Michael Guest (MS), Andy Harris (MD), Vicky Hartzler (MO), Jody Hice (GA), Clay Higgins (LA), Darrell Issa (CA), Ronny Jackson (TX), Doug LaMalfa (CA), Doug Lamborn (CO), Billy Long (MO), Thomas Massie (KY), Brian Mast (FL), Mary Miller (IL), Greg Murphy (NC), Ralph Norman (SC), Scott Perry (PA), Matt Rosendale (MT), Chip Roy (TX), Greg Steube (FL), and Randy Weber (TX) also signed.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-applauds-105-million-loan-sarasota-county-water-treatment", "Buchanan Applauds $105 Million Loan for Sarasota County Water Treatment Facility", "2021-12-19", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Vern Buchanan", "B001260", "buchanan.house.gov", "buchanan", "https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "SARASOTA, Fla. \u2013 Congressman Vern Buchanan today applauded the approval of a $105 million low interest rate loan to the Bee Ridge Water Reclamation Facility (BRWRF) Expansion and Wastewater Treatment Conversion Project from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This loan will be used to upgrade existing infrastructure to state-of-the-art water treatment technology.\n\n\u201cClean water is critical to our economy and quality of life here on the Suncoast,\u201d said Buchanan \u201cThese innovative upgrades to the BRWRF will be a significant improvement to our local water infrastructure and serve my constituents in the area with more sustainable, cleaner water.\u201d\n\nFinancing for the expansion and conversion project was provided by the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program. Funds will be used to construct new facilities, utilities and on-site infrastructure and to demolish existing facilities, including secondary clarifiers and deep bed filters. Upgrades of this caliber have not previously been developed in Florida.\n\nIn December 2020, Buchanan sent a letter to EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler urging the EPA consider Sarasota County\u2019s request for WIFIA financing to improve water quality at BRWRF. BRWRF is a 143-acre facility located solely in Florida\u2019s 16th congressional district. Upgrades to the BRWRF will benefit 90,980 Sarasota County residents in Buchanan\u2019s district.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-addresses-manasota-key-erosion-in-meeting-with-army-corps-of-engineers/", "Rep. Steube Addresses Manasota Key Erosion in Meeting with Army Corps of Engineers", "2021-12-19", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "W. Gregory Steube", "S001214", "steube.house.gov", "steube", "https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Rep. Steube Addresses Manasota Key Erosion in Meeting with Army Corps of Engineers\n\nCharlotte County, FL \u2013 U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-FL) yesterday joined Charlotte County leaders in a meeting and site visit with the Army Corps of Engineers and Colonel James L. Booth to discuss rehabilitation solutions for Manasota Key\u2019s deteriorating shoreline.\n\n\u201cIn recent years, Charlotte County has sustained significant shoreline erosion and other damage from various weather events,\u201d Steube said.\u201dOn Dec 1, 2021, I sent a letter to the Corps expressing my concern for these worsening conditions and have requested the inclusion of the study and construction of a shoreline rehabilitation project currently being considered by the Army Corps.\u201d\n\nThe federal project will help protect critical infrastructure, including homes, condos, and hurricane evacuation routes. Charlotte County has declared several emergencies since 2014 due to the impact of the erosion on homes and infrastructure. The erosion, in some cases, has destabilized homes and condominium buildings to the point where they are no longer safe to enter.\n\nThe beaches within the project area begin in Sarasota County, and the project extends for over 4.4 miles across the Sarasota County/Charlotte County line south to Stump Pass Beach State Park.\n\nFlorida\u2019s 17th Congressional District\u2019s land area is over 6,300 square miles and is home to portions of Florida\u2019s Gulf Coast, including shoreline in Sarasota and Charlotte County.\n\nTo view Congressman Steube\u2019s December 1 letter to the Army Corps, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-sits-down-community-leaders-identifies-next-steps-tackling-fentanyl", "Bilirakis Sits Down with Community Leaders, Identifies Next Steps in Tackling Fentanyl Crisis", "2021-12-17", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "December 17, 2021\n\nCongressman Gus Bilirakis held a roundtable discussion this week with local emergency room physicians, behavioral health clinicians, health department officials, law enforcement and other community leaders to learn more about how fentanyl is impacting the Tampa Bay area and identify ways Congress can provide more effective assistance. According to the CDC, 100,000 Americans have died from fentanyl-related overdoses in the past year. Pasco and Pinellas counties report approximately 800 fentanyl deaths in 2021 alone. The goal of the meeting was to identify specific policy recommendations that would assist local stakeholders who are on the front lines of this struggle.\n\n\"This is a public health crisis. While law enforcement plays a key role in addressing these problems, as long as there is demand criminal elements will always find a way to create supply. Since we cannot arrest our way out of this situation, we must find ways to better treat addiction. These are our neighbors who are dying, often accidentally because the substances they are taking are laced with deadly fentanyl,\" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. \"The time to act is now. We must expand access to treatment, enhance prevention strategies, remove barriers that keep providers from being able to implement best practices, crack down on China for supplying deadly drugs, secure our southern border, and give law enforcement the tools it needs to go after the suppliers who are profiting off those who are struggling with addiction.\"\n\nThe following actions were suggested by the group of local experts, some of which have already been acted upon by Congressman Bilirakis:\n\nIncrease enforcement for existing behavioral health parity laws because it is a serious barrier to getting people the help they need. Congressman Bilirakis has sponsored the Mental Health Parity Enforcement Act to address this issue.\n\nThe Tampa Bay region has received significant federal funding in recent years however much of it can't be spent within the timeframes established by federal agencies. Another issue is that many providers do not have the staffing needed to address the demand for services. Providers need more flexibility with the federal funds and a longer period to spend the funding. Also, the funds need to be reoccurring to prevent a fiscal cliff that negatively impacts patients being served. To address staffing issues, there is a bill that would allow other trained mental health counselors to treat substance abuse patients and be reimbursed through Medicare. This would expand access to treatment. All other payers allow this expanded scope of practice due to the urgent need. The Congressman will review this legislation and discuss these funding issues with his colleagues.\n\nThe co-responding model Pasco County is using with Baycare has been very effective. The agencies need more funding to expand and replicate this successful model. In this model, law enforcement calls related to overdoses or drug abuse are flagged. A Baycare clinician responds to the call with law enforcement and instead of incarceration, the patient is offered treatment options.\n\nThere is a great deal of prevention happening in schools (as early as elementary levels) but it isn't sufficient. With so many pills being laced with fentanyl and even vaping pens being tainted with fentanyl, there are many accidental overdoses. There needs to be more education about these dangers.\n\nAdventHealth has engaged in putting research into practice regarding opioid-free surgeries. This work needs to be expanded. Congressman Bilirakis has cosponsored HR 3259 that would address a key aspect to this problem.\n\nER doctors want to be able to write prescriptions for the first dose of Medical Assisted Treatment but are prevented due to the X-waiver (buprenorphine). This limitation should be removed. There is an education component that will be needed for some doctors to feel comfortable prescribing new drugs in an area they are less familiar with, but the professional organizations can help. And it will save lives. Congressman Bilirakis has cosponsored HR 1374 to achieve this goal.\n\nLack of affordable housing is a significant problem. If people return to the same environment, successful recovery is virtually impossible. More focus on the social determinants of health will help. Congressman Bilirakis has authored HR 3894 and 4074 to address social determinants of health issues.\n\nIssues:Health Care", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-bilirakis-frankel-dingell-introduce-bill-improve-public-health-programs", "Reps. Bilirakis, Frankel, Dingell Introduce Bill to Improve Public Health Programs for Older Adults", "2021-12-16", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), Lois Frankel (D-FL-21), and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-12) introduced the Protecting the Health of America's Older Adults Act. This bipartisan legislation would create a program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to improve the health and well-being of older adults and provide grants to state and local health departments to implement age-friendly public health programs.\n\n\"We owe it to our seniors to ensure they have access to the best possible health care,\" said Rep. Bilirakis. \"As the population continues to age, it only makes sense that public health officials are working closely with senior advocacy organizations to identify and address unmet needs.\"\n\n\"As people age, they face unique health challenges including dementia, food insecurity, balance, and isolation,\" said Rep. Frankel. \"This bipartisan legislation will provide the CDC and state and local health departments with resources to address these, and other critical health issues older Americans confront every day.\"\n\n\"The number of Americans ages 65 and older will more than double over the next 40 years. We have the power to prepare for this through strategic legislation that supports critical resources for older Americans,\" said Rep. Dingell. \"I'm proud to work with my colleague Rep. Lois Frankel to introduce the Protecting the Health of America's Older Adults Act to create a Healthy Aging program at the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention. From lowering health care costs to improving health equity, this program will be a lifeline to the American people as they age.\"\n\nThere are many issues faced by seniors across the public health spectrum, including: transportation and housing access, chronic disease, and mental health. Improving coordination of services for seniors will benefit our entire society. The CDC program created by this legislation will provide grants and technical assistance to state, local, territorial, and tribal health departments for:\n\nImproving the coordination of public health interventions that improve the health and well-being of older adults;\n\nDisseminating and implementing evidence-based best practices and programs with respect to promoting the health and well-being of older adults;\n\nCoordinating multisectoral efforts to improve the health and well-being of older adults across governmental and nongovernmental health agencies;\n\nImproving coordination of interventions to identify gaps and reduce duplication of efforts at federal, local, and state agencies and with other aging services organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-recognizes-alex-meyer-as-december-fl-17-mvp/", "Steube Recognizes Alex Meyer as December FL-17 MVP", "2021-12-16", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "W. Gregory Steube", "S001214", "steube.house.gov", "steube", "https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Steube Recognizes Alex Meyer as December FL-17 MVP\n\nFORT MYERS, FLA.\u2014 Today, U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) recognized Punta Gorda Local Alex Meyer as December\u2018s FL-17 MVP.\n\n\u201cAlex Meyer embodies the qualities that make our community great. Alex is compassionate, generous, outgoing, dedicated, and he\u2019s a fighter.\u201d Steube said. \u201cDespite battling his numerous medical obstacles, Alex persevered and continuously gave back to our community, and communities across the country, helping other children in need.\u201d\n\nAlex undergoes chemotherapy and is currently a patient at John Hopkins All Children\u2019s in St. Petersburg. He has received over 60 chemo infusions since his diagnosis and has since started oral chemo twice daily for four months. Throughout his treatment, Alex has lost over 75% of his vision, his sense of smell, the majority of his sense of taste, and has short-term memory loss.\n\nDuring a chemo appointment last year, here at Golisano, Alex asked his parents if they could do a family toy drive. They started going shopping every Sunday after church and ended up purchasing almost 600 toys from stores all over town. The Meyers Family then started the Ironman Alex\u2019s Toy Drive. Alex\u2019s goal was to collect a thousand toys. Through social media, local press, and community outreach, he started receiving packages from all over the world.\n\nAlex has collected and donated thousands of toys and continues his incredible charitable work. Rep. Steube presented Alex Meyer with a certificate and flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in his honor.\n\nEach month, Rep. Steube and his team recognize an MVP from the 17th Congressional District who has made outstanding and unique contributions to the community. The purpose of this award is to recognize the unsung heroes across the District as they display extraordinary dedication to making a difference. MVPs are presented with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to thank them for their work and are publicly recognized in Rep. Steube\u2019s weekly newsletter.\n\nTo submit deserving nominees, constituents are encouraged to visit Steube.House.Gov/FL17MVP.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=271", "Franklin Applauds House Passage of Annual Defense Bill", "2021-12-15", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Scott Franklin", "F000472", "franklin.house.gov", "franklin", "https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, today acted in support of our nation\u2019s military service members by voting for passage of S. 1605, the National Defense Authorization Act of 2022, on Tuesday evening.\n\n\u201cOur Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Guardians, and Marines face ongoing global threats in defense of our nation,\u201d said Rep. Franklin. \u201cPassing this bill is a critical step to providing them with needed support and resources to continue their remarkable legacy of defending America. Tonight\u2019s action continues a 61-year-long tradition of bipartisan action to strengthen our national security. I believe in peace through strength, and the provisions and funding in this bill will provide just that, especially as we continue to counter adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran. I look forward to quick Senate passage so President Biden can sign it into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cRep. Franklin has been a leader on the House Armed Services Committee and has worked tirelessly to support our troops,\u201d said Rep. Mike Rogers, Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee. \u201cHe has also been vital in the effort to hold the Biden administration accountable for the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. The NDAA is critical for strengthening our national security and giving our troops the funding and tools they need. I thank Rep. Franklin for his work on this important legislation.\u201d\n\nThe 2022 NDAA provides a total of $768 billion in funding for the U.S. Armed Forces. Included in the legislation is a 2.7 percent pay raise for service members, several provisions to counter the threat posed by China, funding to put the country back on track toward building a 355 ship Navy, provisions to increase readiness, unprecedented levels of funding in emerging technologies, modernization of the U.S. nuclear arsenal, and an end to investment in outdated weapons systems and programs.\n\nAdditionally, Republican leadership successfully removed the troubling \u201cRed Flag\u201d provision that would infringe on the Second Amendment rights of our armed forces, and a requirement for women to register for the draft. Multiple other Democrat partisan provisions that distracted from national security readiness were removed prior to passage.\n\nThe 2022 NDAA includes several provisions and amendments secured by Rep. Franklin, including:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=319", "Franklin Opposes Partisan, Political Attacks Disguised as Combating Bigotry", "2021-12-15", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Scott Franklin", "F000472", "franklin.house.gov", "franklin", "https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Rep. Franklin today voted against a partisan bill brought forth by the House majority to attack political opponents under the guise of combating Islamophobia. The bill H.R. 5665, would among other things, establish a Special Envoy to Counter Islamophobia at the Department of State and singles out a former president for his actions to ensure the safety and security of the United States. Many may not be aware that the State Department already has at least three officers specifically tasked with combating Islamophobia. They include the Special Representative for Muslim Communities, Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, and the Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Rights, and Labor. Furthermore, Democrat leadership on the House Rules Committee rejected Republican amendments to the bill, including Franklin\u2019s amendment which would remove a partisan attack on former President Donald Trump.\n\n\"Today, I voted against H.R. 5665. I condemn all forms of religious bigotry, but find it disappointing (though not surprising) that my Democrat colleagues are using a serious issue as a tool to engage in a partisan attack against former President Trump,\" said Rep. Franklin. \"Their refusal to even discuss Republican amendments makes it clear that my Democrat colleagues are not serious about condemning religious bigotry across the globe.\"\n\nBACKGROUND\n\nSection 4 of H.R. 5665 includes a phrase which prevents funds made available by the act to be used \u201cto promote or endorse a Muslim ban, such as the one instituted by former President Trump.\u201d Traditionally, Congress has avoided specifically targeting politicians in the laws it drafts. The inclusion of former President Trump in the Act breaks this precedent. Rep. Franklin\u2019s amendment would have struck this language from the bill.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=370", "Franklin Urges Action to Allow Florida to Cut Taxes Without Penalty", "2021-12-15", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Scott Franklin", "F000472", "franklin.house.gov", "franklin", "https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representative Scott Franklin (R\u2013FL) joined House Ways and Means Ranking Member Rep. Kevin Brady (R\u2013TX) and House Oversight and Government Reform Republican Leader James Comer (R\u2013KY) in cosponsoring the State Tax Freedom Act, H.R. 2189, which opposes an unconstitutional provision of the American Rescue Plan Act that restricts states\u2019 autonomy to cut taxes and manage their own finances.\n\n\"States that have helped workers, families, and Main Street businesses through tax relief need greater flexibility, not shackles from the federal government,\" said Rep. Brady. \"Democrats rammed through an unconstitutional provision with no committee hearings or input from the states, and this bill [The State Tax and Freedom Act] will protect states\u2019 freedom to make their own fiscal decisions.\"\n\n\u201cThe American Rescue Plan is not only a massive $1.9 trillion spending spree that has the potential to destroy our economy, but also dictates how states like Florida who have properly managed their budgets during the pandemic can utilize resources. We should be prioritizing efforts to lower taxes and grow our economy rather than offering bailouts to states with high unemployment rates and mishandled finances,\u201d Rep. Franklin said. \u201cThe American Rescue Plan Act is an assault on state sovereignty, while the State Tax Freedom Act will restore states ability to help their residents by promoting pro-growth policies.\u201d\n\nThe State Tax Freedom Act revokes the ban on states\u2019 freedom to decrease taxes if they receive money from the American Rescue Plan Act\u2019s Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund. Furthermore, the bill requires the Treasury to return the state any money withheld due to the state cutting taxes.\n\nFlorida\u2019s Attorney General, Ashley Moody, and twenty additional state Attorneys General have also raised concerns about the issue in a March 16 letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=CCFF9D26-7A9E-4E8F-A4D2-FB662E09F084", "Webster & Graves Introduce Bill to Ban Vaccine Passports for Travel", "2021-12-14", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC - Congressman Daniel Webster (R-FL) and Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO) introduced the SAFER Travel Act, H.R. 6257, to ban federal vaccine passports and quarantine requirements for travel.\n\n\"President Biden, his administration and Democrats in Congress are out of control as they continue to push more mandates and restrictions on the American people,\u201d said Rep. Webster, who serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. \u201cThis is not about science or public health; this is fearmongering to maintain control and it has to stop. This bill protects the privacy and personal freedoms of American citizens to make healthcare decisions in consultation with their doctor \u2013 not because of demands by Washington politicians or bureaucrats. I will continue to work with my colleagues to defend the freedoms of the American people.\u201d\n\n\u201cYou shouldn\u2019t need a vaccine passport to get on a train, board a plane, or travel home for the holidays,\u201d said Rep. Sam Graves, Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. \u201cThis bill would put that terrible idea to bed once and for all. The vaccines have proven to be the safest and most effective tool we have against preventing COVID-19, but the federal government has no business mandating them for travel, work, or anything else. It\u2019s a personal decision and it needs to stay that way.\u201d\n\nH.R. 6257 would prohibit COVID-19 vaccine mandates or quarantine requirements on Americans for the purposes of travel. The science and data are clear, the vast majority of Americans have received a COVID-19 vaccine or have natural immunity from previous infection. Those vaccinated can contract and spread COVID-19 making mandates completely nonsensical.\n\nEarlier this month, the CDC and White House officials announced additional restrictions on Americans traveling domestically and abroad were possible, including additional testing and quarantines. Travel restrictions and mandates continue to be considered without any consideration or accountability for the emotional and physical ramifications on families and individuals\u2019 mental health. Drug overdose deaths hit a record high from May 2020 \u2013 April 2021, which Michael Barnett, assistant professor of health policy and management at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health partially attributed to pandemic restrictions telling Newsweek, \u201cPeople face enormous financial difficulties, mass unemployment, isolation\u2026 All of those things can test anyone\u2019s resilience to addiction.\u201d\n\nCongressman Webster has cosponsored legislation prohibiting President Biden\u2019s COVID-19 mandate on private businesses, federal contractors and those who provide Medicare and Medicaid services.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/area-agency-aging-pasco-pinellas-announces-new-initiative-aims-enhance-senior", "AREA AGENCY ON AGING OF PASCO \u2013 PINELLAS ANNOUNCES NEW INITIATIVE THAT AIMS TO ENHANCE SENIOR SAFETY IN PASCO AND PINELLAS COUNTIES", "2021-12-13", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Oldsmar, Florida, Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas (AAAPP), a nonprofit focused on coordinating services to keep seniors healthy and independent, today announced a community program in collaboration with Ring to support senior safety in Pasco and Pinellas counties. Attached are pictures from the Press Conference announcing this initiative. During the press conference, Ring also presented AAAPP with an additional $20,000 donation to support the work of this worthwhile senior advocacy organization.\n\nFor almost fifty years, AAAPP has advocated, educated, and empowered seniors living throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties and promoted their independence. Through our network of community partners, AAAPP provides resources to seniors, adults with disabilities and caregivers needed to maintain independence, promote healthy aging and live an optimal quality of life.\n\nWith AAAPP's support, Ring, whose mission is to make neighborhoods safer, is donating 1,000 Ring Video Doorbells, including free installation and a Ring Protect subscription, to local residents 60 years and older throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties, as defined by AAAPP.\n\nAAAPP believes that the donation will help promote the safety and stability of senior residents in Pasco and Pinellas counties. \"Now that so many of the seniors we serve live independently, it's increasingly important to ensure that they're safe at home,\" said Ann Marie Winter, Executive Director of AAAPP. \"We're grateful to share our work and services to educate and empower seniors in Pasco and Pinellas counties. With this initiative, we hope to help 1,000 seniors feel safe in their homes. That is priceless.\"\n\n\"We have an obligation to support vulnerable members of our community and help protect them,\" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. \"This exciting collaboration harnesses the technology available in the private sector and the existing infrastructure of an effective senior advocacy organization to help seniors and support AAAPP's comprehensive initiatives. Seniors using this product can feel more comfortable at home or when someone comes to their door, which inherently contributes to safety.\"\n\n\"Ring is proud to support and learn from AAAPP, an organization that supports local elder communities with comprehensive programs and advocates for comfortably aging in place,\" said Leila Rouhi, President of Ring. \"We hope that this donation makes a difference for seniors throughout west central Florida in supplementing safety measures that are easy-to-use and convenient. We strive to help build safer neighborhoods for everyone and to extend AAAPP's community impact to support seniors' well-being, safety and independence.\"\n\nProgram Overview:\n\nUp to 1,000 Ring Video Doorbells will be donated at no cost to senior residents 60 years and older.\n\nRing will cover the installation cost associated with the donated device.\n\nRing will provide a Ring Protect Basic video recording subscription for the life of the donated device at no cost to senior residents.\n\nRing will provide a Security Yard Sign with each donated device at no cost to senior residents.\n\nApplicants who meet the eligibility requirements will be selected to receive a donated device on a first come, first served basis.\n\nResidents interested in receiving a donated device can apply on Ring's website here starting December 13th.\n\nAbout the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas\n\nThe Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas is a non-profit organization that has been serving seniors and individuals with disabilities in our community since 1974. We serve as the Aging and Disability Resource Center for the entire two county area, providing an initial entry point for all aging and disability social services and coordinating a network of partners and providers to better meet the needs of our aging population. Our mission is to be a trusted resource to advocate, educate and empower seniors, adults with disabilities and caregivers which promotes independence, in partnership with the community. Find out more at www.AgingCareFL.org.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-leads-fla-delegation-letter-biden-supply-chain-crisis", "Buchanan Leads Fla. Delegation Letter to Biden on Supply Chain Crisis", "2021-12-13", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Vern Buchanan", "B001260", "buchanan.house.gov", "buchanan", "https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Amid ongoing delays at West Coast seaports, Congressman Vern Buchanan today led a letter signed by 17 bipartisan members of the Florida congressional delegation advocating for increased use of Florida\u2019s 15 deepwater ports.\n\n\u201cAs the holidays approach, American businesses and families are feeling the effects firsthand of the continued supply chain bottlenecks,\u201d said Buchanan. \u201cGiven Florida\u2019s unique geographic location, our 15 deepwater seaports can handle increased freight traffic and meet holiday demands for consumers around the country, and they are ready to get to work.\u201d\n\nIn a letter to President Biden, the members offered to work with the Biden administration to utilize Florida\u2019s ports as an alternative to the West Coast that continues to see unprecedented delays in offloading cargo, leading to severe supply chain congestion. Recent reports state that almost 90 cargo ships were left idling off the Port of Long Beach or the Port of Los Angeles while waiting to offload their containers. At one point, this logjam led to 17-day delays for ships, further delaying the arrival of shipments to consumers.\n\nIn just the last two years, the State of Florida has invested nearly $1 billion in projects to increase seaport capacity and plans to spend an additional $200 million over the next several years to improve the state\u2019s roadways to handle increased freight movements. Additionally, unlike other ports across the country, many of Florida\u2019s ports have been functioning at full capacity 24 hours-a-day, seven days a week, for quite some time.\n\n\u201cToday, our ports stand ready to help alleviate current systemic freight backlogs all over the country and are well-equipped to handle additional capacity,\u201d said the members in the letter. \u201cIn short, Florida is open for business.\u201d\n\nFlorida Ports Council President and CEO Mike Rubin praised the lawmakers and said, \u201cThe leadership and bipartisan efforts of Florida\u2019s Congressional Delegation, is further demonstration that Florida\u2019s seaports are open for business, and are a key solution in helping to alleviate the nation\u2019s supply chain challenges \u2026 Special thanks to Congressman Vern Buchanan and Florida\u2019s Congressional Delegation for his leadership on this important issue\u201d.\u201d\n\nEarlier this year, Governor Ron DeSantis also announced that Florida\u2019s seaports can decrease congestion along shipping routes and welcomed businesses to reroute their cargo to a port along our coasts.\n\nYou can read a full copy of the letter here or below.\n\nDear Mr. President:\n\nAs members of the Florida Congressional delegation representing our state\u2019s world-class network of 15 deepwater seaports, we stand ready to work with you and your administration to help provide important and much-needed alternatives to congested shipping routes around the country.\n\nIn successfully moving over 100 million tons of cargo and millions of cruise passengers annually, Florida\u2019s seaports currently support a vast array of global commercial industries. Working together with the federal government, Florida\u2019s seaports can save consumers money, support American jobs, grow our economy and offer near-term relief for our nation\u2019s current supply chain bottleneck affecting many aspects of our daily lives.\n\nAccording to recent news reports, a back-up of almost 90 cargo ships waiting to enter either the Port of Long Beach or the Port of Los Angeles extended south almost to San Diego. This logjam meant cargo ships were waiting, on average, almost 17 days just to off-load their containers. We believe that our seaports are underutilized assets that can help reduce, if not eliminate, the delays plaguing our domestic supply chain and are asking you to work with us to help make this a reality.\n\nIn Florida, there are currently no delays at our ports in large part because many of them have been operating 24 hours-a-day for quite some time, while other ports around the country are just now announcing around-the-clock operations. With the holiday season upon us and the United States struggling to solve crippling congestion in our supply chain, our 15 ports and unique geographical location offer a more efficient alternative to certain West Coast ports.\n\nSince 2019, the State of Florida has invested nearly $1 billion in capacity-building projects for our ports and plans to spend $200 million over the next few years to further enhance the state\u2019s inland freight-handling capacity. Furthermore, our ports have matched these investments and are committed to using additional resources to expand their services to meet demand. Consequently, our transportation infrastructure can handle increased freight traffic immediately and that capacity will only continue to grow.\n\nToday, our ports stand ready to help alleviate current systemic freight backlogs all over the country and are well-equipped to handle additional capacity. In short, Florida is open for business.\n\nAgain, we welcome the opportunity to work with your administration to help take further advantage of Florida\u2019s 15 deepwater seaports and to serve as an important part of the solution to the ongoing supply chain crisis.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D4FEDA59-2270-473C-857B-1CC44B113895", "Webster and Florida Delegation Tell Biden to Use FL Seaports", "2021-12-13", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, and 17 bipartisan members of the Florida congressional delegation advocates for increased use of Florida\u2019s 15 deepwater ports.\n\n\u201cI am a longtime supporter and advocate for Florida\u2019s Ports, which have capacity to help alleviate the current backlog of cargo activity,\u201d said Rep. Webster. \u201cThanks to our location and network of highways and railways, the Sunshine State can manage increased freight traffic and help make sure consumer demand is met during this holiday season.\u201d\n\nIn a letter to President Biden, the members offered to work with the Biden administration to utilize Florida\u2019s ports as an alternative to the West Coast that continues to see unprecedented delays in offloading cargo, leading to severe supply chain congestion. Recent reports state that almost 90 cargo ships were left idling off the Port of Long Beach or the Port of Los Angeles while waiting to offload their containers. At one point, this logjam led to 17-day delays for ships, further delaying the arrival of shipments to consumers.\n\nIn just the last two years, the State of Florida has invested nearly $1 billion in projects to increase seaport capacity and plans to spend an additional $200 million over the next several years to improve the state\u2019s roadways to handle increased freight movements. Additionally, unlike other ports across the country, many of Florida\u2019s ports have been functioning at full capacity 24 hours-a-day, seven days a week, for quite some time.\n\n\u201cToday, our ports stand ready to help alleviate current systemic freight backlogs all over the country and are well-equipped to handle additional capacity,\u201d said the members in the letter. \u201cIn short, Florida is open for business.\u201d\n\nFlorida Ports Council President and CEO Mike Rubin praised the lawmakers and said, \u201cThe leadership and bipartisan efforts of Florida\u2019s Congressional Delegation, is further demonstration that Florida\u2019s seaports are open for business, and are a key solution in helping to alleviate the nation\u2019s supply chain challenges.\u201d\n\nEarlier this year, Governor Ron DeSantis also announced that Florida\u2019s seaports can decrease congestion along shipping routes and welcomed businesses to reroute their cargo to a port along our coasts.\n\nYou can read a full copy of the letter here or below.\n\nDear Mr. President:\n\nAs members of the Florida Congressional delegation representing our state\u2019s world-class network of 15 deepwater seaports, we stand ready to work with you and your administration to help provide important and much-needed alternatives to congested shipping routes around the country.\n\nIn successfully moving over 100 million tons of cargo and millions of cruise passengers annually, Florida\u2019s seaports currently support a vast array of global commercial industries. Working together with the federal government, Florida\u2019s seaports can save consumers money, support American jobs, grow our economy and offer near-term relief for our nation\u2019s current supply chain bottleneck affecting many aspects of our daily lives.\n\nAccording to recent news reports, a back-up of almost 90 cargo ships waiting to enter either the Port of Long Beach or the Port of Los Angeles extended south almost to San Diego. This logjam meant cargo ships were waiting, on average, almost 17 days just to off-load their containers. We believe that our seaports are underutilized assets that can help reduce, if not eliminate, the delays plaguing our domestic supply chain and are asking you to work with us to help make this a reality.\n\nIn Florida, there are currently no delays at our ports in large part because many of them have been operating 24 hours-a-day for quite some time, while other ports around the country are just now announcing around-the-clock operations. With the holiday season upon us and the United States struggling to solve crippling congestion in our supply chain, our 15 ports and unique geographical location offer a more efficient alternative to certain West Coast ports.\n\nSince 2019, the State of Florida has invested nearly $1 billion in capacity-building projects for our ports and plans to spend $200 million over the next few years to further enhance the state\u2019s inland freight-handling capacity. Furthermore, our ports have matched these investments and are committed to using additional resources to expand their services to meet demand. Consequently, our transportation infrastructure can handle increased freight traffic immediately and that capacity will only continue to grow.\n\nToday, our ports stand ready to help alleviate current systemic freight backlogs all over the country and are well-equipped to handle additional capacity. In short, Florida is open for business.\n\nAgain, we welcome the opportunity to work with your administration to help take further advantage of Florida\u2019s 15 deepwater seaports and to serve as an important part of the solution to the ongoing supply chain crisis.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=504", "Reps. Donalds and Crow Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Empower Fintechs", "2021-12-10", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Byron Donalds", "D000032", "donalds.house.gov", "donalds", "https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) and Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) announced the introduction of the Expanding Access to Affordable Credit for Small Businesses Act. This bill is the fourth bipartisan piece of legislation sponsored by Rep. Donalds.\n\nThis bipartisan legislation optimizes the full capability of the free market by expanding the criteria of the Small Business Administration\u2019s 7(a) loan program to allow fintech companies the opportunity to provide loans to America\u2019s small businesses.\n\n\u201cFintech lending is the future of small business lending, and this legislation modernizes how small businesses access capital. Empowering and equipping the fintech sector of the economy to offer private loans creates more opportunities for American small enterprises to achieve prosperity,\u201d said Rep. Donalds. \u201cThis is commonsense, bipartisan legislation that deploys a willing and ready private sector to meet the needs of our nation\u2019s small businesses in a sustainable way and creates a pathway for entrepreneurs to pursue their American Dream.\u201d\n\n\u201cSmall businesses are the backbone of the U.S. economy. A big part of our work on the Small Business Committee is ensuring that our small business owners have the resources they need to succeed,\u201d said Rep. Crow. \u201cIt\u2019s my pleasure to work on a bipartisan basis with Congressman Donalds to expand the 7(a) small business loan program to ensure funding for our new and growing small businesses.\u201d\n\nThe bill text can be read in its entirety here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F5C97A39-911F-4CDC-911F-B949D6F0F1C5", "Webster and Bipartisan Florida, Texas Members Urge USDA to Reverse Decision that Harms American Grapefruit Growers", "2021-12-10", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, joined U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Rick Scott (R-FL) and members of the Florida and Texas Congressional Delegations to urge the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Tom Vilsack to reverse the Department\u2019s unjustified decision to administratively suspend juice content standards for imported grapefruits, and to request information regarding the circumstances of the suspension, which was made without a proper rulemaking process, and for which Congress was not notified.\n\nFollowing the suspension of grapefruit juice content standards, Texas A&M University found in November 2021, that more than 85 percent of grapefruits imported from Mexico in September and October would have \u201cfailed quality standards and been rejected,\u201d if not for the suspension of juice content standards by Secretary Vilsack.\n\n\u201cThe suspension of grapefruit juice standards for imported grapefruits poses a serious threat to American growers and undermines their ability to compete in the American market at a pivotal time. In recent months and years, our grapefruit growers have been severely impacted by natural disasters and citrus diseases,\u201d the members wrote. \u201cNow, this suspension allows low quality grapefruit products to flood our market, and forces our growers to compete against low-cost, subsidized imports. This regulatory patch is discriminatory in nature, as substandard grapefruit products can now be imported, meanwhile, American-grown grapefruits must still meet juice content standards. Additionally, as these imported grapefruits are of poor quality due to their low juice content, American consumers may become averse to purchasing grapefruits, as the substandard imported products could adversely impact the entire market due to unmet consumer expectations.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe core mission of USDA is to promote and support American agricultural producers, not to disadvantage them by creating unfair advantages for foreign growers. As such, we urge you to immediately reinstate juice content standards for imported grapefruits,\u201d the members added.\n\nRepresentatives Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Stephanie Murphy (D-FL), Al Lawson (D-FL), Greg Steube (R-FL), Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Tony Gonzales (R-TX), Michael Waltz (R-FL), Louie Gohmert (R-TX), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Michael Cloud (R-TX), Kat Cammack (R-FL), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), Darren Soto (D-FL), and Henry Cuellar (D-TX), and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) signed the letter.\n\nThe full text of the letter is below.\n\nDear Secretary Vilsack:\n\nWe write to urge you to immediately reverse a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) decision to suspend Section 8e grapefruit juice content standards for imported grapefruits via marketing order \u201cPatch #65.\u201d Additionally, we seek to understand why the USDA implemented this regulatory patch without public notification or input.\n\nThe suspension of grapefruit juice standards for imported grapefruits poses a serious threat to American growers and undermines their ability to compete in the American market at a pivotal time. In recent months and years, our grapefruit growers have been severely impacted by natural disasters and citrus diseases. Now, this suspension allows low quality grapefruit products to flood our market, and forces our growers to compete against low-cost, subsidized imports. This regulatory patch is discriminatory in nature, as substandard grapefruit products can now be imported, meanwhile, American-grown grapefruits must still meet juice content standards. Additionally, as these imported grapefruits are of poor quality due to their low juice content, American consumers may have become averse to purchasing grapefruits, as the substandard imported products could adversely impact the entire market due to unmet consumer expectations.\n\nIn addition to immediately reinstating the juice content standards for imported grapefruits, we ask you to address each of the following questions in a written response:\n\nWhy did USDA implement Patch #65?\n\nWhich authority did the USDA use to suspend the Section 8e juice content standards for imported grapefruits?\n\nWas this patch implemented at the request of a federal government agency? If so, which agency?\n\nWhy did the USDA implement Patch #65 without soliciting public comments or notifying Congress?\n\nWas this patch implemented as part of an agreement with, or an effort to secure an agreement with, a foreign government or entity? If so, please explain the context for the issuance of this patch.\n\nThe core mission of USDA is to promote and support American agricultural producers, not to disadvantage them by creating unfair advantages for foreign growers. As such, we urge you to immediately reinstate juice content standards for imported grapefruits.\n\nThank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to receiving your response in a timely manner.\n\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-speaks-house-floor-about-faces-fentanyl", "Bilirakis Speaks on the House Floor about the Faces of Fentanyl", "2021-12-09", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC: Saddened by the overdose epidemic that is worsening throughout the nation, Congressman Bilirakis took to the House Floor late last night to spur much needed Congressional action as deaths involving synthetic opioids continue to skyrocket.\n\n\"In Pasco County, 193 people have died from overdose since January. The vast majority of these cases involved fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances. I have also received hundreds of heartbreaking stories from constituents whose families have been devastated by addiction. One constituent, MaryAnne, said this: \"I lost my adult son in June of 2021 to a fentanyl overdose. The system failed me in every single way. With open borders, enough fentanyl came pouring into our country's southern border to kill 70% of our population. My son is sadly one of those statistics.\" Parents like MaryAnne are the faces of the fentanyl crisis. The tragedies these families have experienced are the reason why we must fight back.The first step is to secure our border,\" said Congressman Bilirakis. \"We must also hold China accountable for its continued role in this crisis.\"\n\nThe U.S. Justice Department testified in September that Mexican criminal drug networks are mass-producing illicit fentanyl and fentanyl-laced fake pills, using chemicals sourced largely from China, and are distributing these pills through U.S. criminal networks. These fake pills are designed to appear nearly identical to legitimate prescriptions such as OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin, Adderall, Xanax and other medicines. Criminal drug networks are selling these pills through social media, e-commerce, the dark web, and existing distribution networks. As a result, these deadly fake pills are widely available.\n\n\"If we've learned anything from the pandemic it's that we should be very skeptical of China,\" noted Bilirakis. \"The Trump Administration was very tough on China and on border security. But since, we've seen a relaxing of these policies. As a result, we're seeing a surge of trafficking and subsequent overdoses in communities like mine. We must crack down on China and secure our southern border.We must also permanently place all fentanyl-related substances into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act and give law enforcement the tools it needs to seize these deadly substances as soon as they are found and thus keep them off our streets. To achieve that goal, I support the HALT Fentanyl Act authored by my colleagues, Representatives Latta and Griffith, which will permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I and save countless lives.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bill-strengthen-us-hellenic-relations-passes-part-ndaa-poised-become-law", "Bill to Strengthen US-Hellenic Relations Passes as Part of the NDAA, Poised to Become Law", "2021-12-09", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC: As members of the Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance (CHIA), Representatives Gus Bilirakis, Ted Deutch, and Nicole Malliotakis celebrate the inclusion of the US-Greece Defense and Interparliamentary Partnership Act in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bill, which was co-authored by CHIA Co-Chairs Rep. Bilirakis and Deutch, will strengthen the defense partnership between the United States and Greece, by supporting Greek military modernization and multilateral security efforts between Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States. The NDAA is poised for swift passage in the Senate, sending it to the President to be signed into law.\n\n\"Greece has consistently proven itself to be a reliable ally in the Eastern Mediterranean. This critical legislation bolsters Greece's efforts to modernize its armed forces, while strengthening our strategic partnership among our Hellenic partners. It also enables continued security cooperation to help facilitate enduring stability throughout the region,\" Congressman Bilirakis remarked.\n\n\"The inclusion of this legislation in the NDAA is a natural extension of the growing United States strategic security partnership with Greece and other eastern Mediterranean allies,\" Rep. Deutch said. \"We are building on this mutually beneficial defense relationship by bolstering Greece's military capabilities and fostering interparliamentary engagement between the United States, Greece, Cyprus, and Israel.\"\n\n\"I'm proud to join Representatives Bilirakis and Deutch in supporting legislation that strengthens the U.S.-Greek military partnership, supports the modernization of Greece's military along with a multilateral security cooperation between Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States,\" said Congresswoman Malliotakis. \"This legislation is critical to ensuring stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and I'm pleased to see it pass the House in a bipartisan fashion.\"\n\nKey provisions of the legislation include:\n\nSupport for Greek Military Modernization:\n\nAuthorizes European Recapitalization Incentive Program (ERIP) assistance to Greece to support Greece's transition away from Russian-produced military equipment\n\nAuthorizes $1.8 million per year in International Military Education and Training (IMET) assistance to Greece for FY2022 \u2013 2026\n\nExpresses the Sense of Congress that the U.S. should provide direct loans to Greece for the procurement of defense articles, defense services, and design and construction services pursuant to the further development of Greece's military force\n\nTransfer of American Military Equipment to Greece:\n\nAuthorizes expedited delivery of any future F-35 aircraft ordered by Greece\n\nRequires the Secretary of Defense, with the concurrence of the Secretary of State, to submit a report to Congress on Greece's defense needs and how the United States will seek to address such needs through transfers of excess defense equipment to Greece\n\nParliamentary Engagement within the 3+1 Framework:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/four-more-bilirakis-bills-pass-house-await-final-action-senate", "Four More Bilirakis Bills Pass the House, Await Final Action in the Senate", "2021-12-09", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC: Continuing his strong record of legislative achievement, four more bills co-authored by Congressman Gus Bilirakis have passed out of the U.S. House of Representatives. Since the beginning of the year, three Bilirakis-authored bills have been signed into law, and nine more have passed out of the House Chamber (including these four). A summary of the newest Bilirakis bills to pass the House are included below.\n\nH.R. 3894\u2013 CARING for Social Determinants Act of 2021 will require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide guidance to states to address social determinants of health under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). There is growing recognition in the field of public health that reducing long-standing disparities in health outcomes is dependent on systemically addressing the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence overall health and wellness. Examples of social determinants of health include: socioeconomic status, education, physical environment, employment, social support networks and access to healthcare. The Bilirakis-Blunt Rochester bill will provide ongoing guidance to State Medicaid programs every three years regarding how to implement research-proven strategies to optimize social determinants of health under existing Medicaid authority or waivers, especially for pediatric populations. This legislation builds upon the success that some state Medicaid programs have already seen since testing innovative delivery and payment models designed to improve health outcomes while reducing costs. \"This is commonsense, bipartisan legislation that employs the basic principles of hierarchical needs. We have to look at the big picture. It is impossible to improve the population health of communities without addressing the factors that contribute to poor health outcomes. This is especially true when examining programs for children. For example, efforts to combat childhood obesity in at-risk populations, which lead to excessive healthcare expenditures, are most successful when combined with strategies designed to make sure low-income families have access to affordable, healthy food options. Prevention, education and improving access are essential components of effective public health programs. This isn't just a pragmatic approach, it is the right thing to do as we work to ensure all children have the best possible start in life,\" said Congressman Bilirakis.\n\nH.R. 4055\u2013 American Cybersecurity Literacy Actwill require the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to establish a cybersecurity literacy campaign to increase knowledge and awareness of cybersecurity risks among the American public, including best practices for preventing cyberattacks. \"In recent months we have seen disruptive cyberattacks on some of our nations' most critical infrastructure systems, such as the Colonial Pipeline. In my district, a hacker was recently able to penetrate a local government's security measures and temporarily change the chemical settings of the city's water supply to a potentially dangerous level. Fortunately, the breach was discovered before anyone was in danger. However, these incidents underscore the importance of fortifying and modernizing our critical infrastructure to prevent further attacks,\" Bilirakis said. \"\"Our bipartisan legislation will develop a national education campaign to raise awareness of attacks and the practical steps that can be taken to thwart future bad actors. This is a matter of national security and we must do everything we can to protect all Americans from those who wish to do us harm.\"\n\nH.R. 2355\u2013 Opioid Prescription Verification Act of 2021 will strengthen electronic prescribing and verification practices at pharmacies and build off of work that Bilirakis did in the SUPPORT Act to improve the use of electronic Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs across the health care system. \"Many of my constituents are overdosing and dying at alarming rates. We have to take practical steps to put additional safeguards in place in order to reverse that troubling trend, curb opioid abuse, and save lives,\" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis.\n\nH.R. 4555 - Oral Health Literacy and Awareness Act directs the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to develop an oral health literacy strategy to reach underserved communities. This bipartisan bill aims to curb the rise in oral disease and related illnesses by providing prevention education through a five-year oral health literacy campaign.\n\n\"Oral health is a vital component of overall wellness that is too often overlooked. As with many aspects of healthcare, prevention is key to long-term health. Lack of good oral hygiene has been proven to exacerbate chronic health conditions and contributes to costly, yet preventable, emergency care,\" said Congressman Bilirakis. \"I am proud to be a part of this initiative to raise awareness about the proactive steps that can be taken to improve oral healthcare as I believe it will improve patient outcomes.\"\n\nThe following are Bilirakis-bills that have been signed into law this Congress:\n\nThe TRANSPLANT Act -reauthorizes the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program and the National Cord Blood Inventory. It will help tens of thousands of Americans of all ages who suffer with diseases like blood cancer, sickle cell anemia, inherited metabolic or immune system disorders and 70 otherwise fatal blood disorders.\n\nThe Protecting Moms Who Served Act \u2013 improves maternal health care for Veterans\n\nThe FAIR Crash Tests Act - improves the federal government's vehicle safety testing practices, specifically those involving the use of crash test dummies.\n\nAdditionally, the following five Bilirakis bills passed the House earlier this year:\n\nThe Emergency Reporting Act which will improve the resiliency of communications networks during emergencies.\n\nThe Effective Suicide Screening and Assessment in the Emergency Department Act which standardized the suicide screening tool used in emergency rooms.\n\nThe STAND-UP Act which promotes the use of evidence based practices to identify students who may be at-risk for mental health issues and link them to community resources.\n\nThe Department of Defense (DOD) Burn Pits Health Provider Training Act, which implements mandatory training for all DOD medical providers on the potential health effects of burn pits. This legislative change will help ensure the early identification and treatment of health issues caused by burn pit exposure (will become law with expected Senate passage of NDAA,).\n\nThe US-Greece Defense and Interparliamentary Partnership Act, which will strengthen the defense partnership between the United States and Greece, including by supporting Greek military modernization and multilateral security efforts between Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States (will become law with expected Senate passage of NDAA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/breaking-cortez-post-office-announces-five-year-lease-extension", "BREAKING: Cortez Post Office Announces Five-Year Lease Extension", "2021-12-09", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Vern Buchanan", "B001260", "buchanan.house.gov", "buchanan", "https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "BRADENTON, Fla. \u2013 Congressman Vern Buchanan today announced that the Cortez post office signed a lease extension through July 31, 2026 and will remain open in its current location.\n\n\u201cI am pleased to see the Cortez post office reach a long-term solution and remain open for my constituents in the area,\u201d said Buchanan. \u201cThe Postal Service has been incredibly responsive to my concerns about the undue burden closing this facility would place on residents, and I\u2019m glad we were finally able to find a more permanent solution. I appreciate the Postal Service for following through on their commitment to keeping the Cortez post office open going forward.\u201d\n\nEarlier this year, Buchanan wrote to the Postal Service to express his concern about the strain closing the Cortez post office would place on residents. Those who are serviced by the Cortez post office may have to travel more than 10 miles round trip in heavy seasonal traffic to receive their mail had the facility closed. There is no carrier delivery in the area served by this post office.\n\nBuchanan has been in close contact with the head of the Suncoast postal district, Stephen Hardin, to urge the postal service to maintain a post office in Cortez.\n\nEarlier this year, an eviction notice was filed against the postal service.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-kat-cammack-eddie-bernice-johnson-introduce-bipartisan-taiwan", "Reps. Kat Cammack, Eddie Bernice Johnson Introduce Bipartisan Taiwan Preclearance Act", "2021-12-09", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Kat Cammack", "C001039", "cammack.house.gov", "cammack", "https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) and Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX-30) introduced the Taiwan Preclearance Act. The bill expresses the importance of the United States' relationship with Taiwan and Taiwan's importance in the Indo-Pacific region. The bill also requires a report on establishing a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) preclearance facility at the Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE).\n\nThe Taipei Taoyuan International Airport offers dozens of flights a week to and from the United States, with connections throughout Asia. The establishment of a preclearance facility will create a seamless experience for U.S.-bound passengers and further encourage growth in travel between Taiwan and the U.S.\n\n\"I am excited to introduce this important measure in the House to ensure the United States' support of an airport preclearance facility at the Taipei International Airport in Taiwan,\" said Rep. Cammack. \"Taiwan is one of our most important allies and an essential economic partner with shared values and security priorities. This new facility will ensure easier, safer travel\u2014something that is long overdue. I'm grateful to Rep. Johnson for her partnership in this effort.\"\n\n\"Throughout my career, I have been a strong supporter of the Taiwanese people and the right to travel freely and safely between the United States and Taiwan,\" added Rep. Johnson. \"At a time when the United States and Taiwan are more connected than ever before, it is critical that we signal Taiwan\u2019s importance as a geostrategic security partner. That is why I am proud to work with Rep. Cammack to increase security and convenience in the travel process through the establishment of a preclearance facility in Taoyuan International Airport (TPE).\"\n\n\"Taiwan is a longstanding ally and trusted Indo-Pacific partner,\" said Rep. Balderson (R-OH-12). \"This first step in establishing a preclearance facility at the Taipei Taoyuan International Airport further strengthens the enduring relationship between our two countries in the face of Chinese Community Party aggression and opens the door for increased commercial and tourism opportunities in the region.\"\n\n\"Strengthening our economic and security partnership with Taiwan should continue to be of the utmost importance,\" said Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH-01). \"This bipartisan legislation to study the establishment of a customs preclearance location in Taiwan is a commonsense step in our diplomatic partnership, and I will continue to advocate for policies that will strengthen our relationship.\"\n\n\"The United States and Taiwan share a commitment to democratic values and sound economic principles,\" said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01). \"Given our economic ties and security priorities, establishing a CBP preclearance facility in Taiwan is a logical way to increase collaboration with our strategic partner. Our bipartisan Taiwan Preclearance Act will also benefit American travelers by ensuring safe and efficient travel throughout the Indo-Pacific region.\"\n\nSenator Josh Hawley (R-MO) introduced the Senate companion last week.\n\nBill cosponsors at the time of introduction include Reps. Eddie Bernice Johnson, Troy Balderson, Michael Burgess, Rodney Davis, Scott DesJarlais, Mario Diaz-Balart, Brian Fitzpatrick, Scott Franklin, Carlos Gimenez, Bill Johnson, Frank Lucas, Nancy Mace, Tracey Mann, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Chris Pappas, Donald Payne, Jr., and Kurt Schrader.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-inserta-la-letra-de-patria-y-vida-en-el-diario-de-sesiones", "D\u00edaz-Balart inserta la letra de \u201cPatria y Vida\u201d en el Diario de Sesiones del Congreso", "2021-12-09", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Mario Diaz-Balart", "D000600", "mariodiazbalart.house.gov", "mariodiazbalart", "https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2013 Hoy el Congresista Mario D\u00edaz-Balart insert\u00f3 la letra de Patria y Vida en el Diario de Sesiones del Congreso. Patria y Vida es m\u00e1s que una canci\u00f3n. Es un himno, un rayo de esperanza para el pueblo cubano. Al incluir esta letra en el Diario de Sesiones del Congreso, el congresista D\u00edaz-Balart logra que este Himno de libertad sea inmortalizado y preservado para las generaciones futuras.\n\n\u201cSe\u00f1ora Presidenta, me levanto hoy en honor al Himno de libertad, \u201cPatria y Vida\u201d que representa a todos los cubanos que anhelan la libertad de su patria.\n\nLa canci\u00f3n \u201cPatria y Vida\u201d es una colaboraci\u00f3n entre m\u00fasicos cubanos en el exilio y en la isla que se han unido en oposici\u00f3n a la dictadura y que juntos reclaman la libertad de expresi\u00f3n y el respeto a los derechos humanos. Los autores son Yotuel Romero, Beatriz Luengo, Maykel Osorbo, Eliecer M\u00e1rquez Duany \u201cEl Funky\u201d, Descemer Bueno, Alexander Delgado y Randy Malcom. El 18 de noviembre de 2021, \u201cPatria y Vida\u201d recibi\u00f3 dos premios Grammy, Canci\u00f3n del a\u00f1o y Mejor Canci\u00f3n Urbana en la 22\u00aa Entrega Anual de los Premios Grammy Latinos.\n\nHoy, uno de los autores de \u201cPatria y Vida\u201d, Maykel Castillo P\u00e9rez (com\u00fanmente conocido como Maykel Osorbo), y Luis Manuel Otero Alc\u00e1ntara del Movimiento San Isidro que aparece en el video musical, permanecen en c\u00e1rceles de m\u00e1xima seguridad en Cuba por simplemente colaborar en la creaci\u00f3n de Patria y Vida y manifestarse en contra de la opresi\u00f3n. Otro autor, Eliecer M\u00e1rquez Duany \"El Funky\", fue exiliado despu\u00e9s de estar detenido en arresto domiciliario. Estos valientes artistas sufren simplemente por exigir las libertades fundamentales que son derechos inherentes a toda persona. Ellos, y tantos otros en Cuba, lo han arriesgado todo por la libertad.\n\nSe\u00f1ora Presidenta, el pueblo cubano ser\u00e1 libre. Hacia ese fin, me honra resaltar la importancia de una canci\u00f3n que se ha convertido en el Himno de todos los cubanos que reclaman la libertad para Cuba. Insto a mis colegas a que se unan a m\u00ed para apoyar esta noble causa, exigiendo que todos los presos pol\u00edticos sean liberados, que se respeten los derechos b\u00e1sicos de expresi\u00f3n, reuni\u00f3n y creencias, y que se celebren elecciones libres, justas y pluripartidistas para el pueblo cubano\u201d.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-submits-lyrics-song-patria-y-vida-congressional-record", "Diaz-Balart Submits Lyrics of Song \"Patria y Vida\" to the Congressional Record", "2021-12-09", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Mario Diaz-Balart", "D000600", "mariodiazbalart.house.gov", "mariodiazbalart", "https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2013 Today, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart submitted the lyrics of Patria y Vida to the Congressional Record. Patria y Vida is more than a song. It is an anthem, a beacon of hope for the Cuban people. By adding these lyrics to the Congressional Record, Congressman Diaz-Balart ensures that this anthem of freedom is immortalized and preserved for generations to come.\n\nRead the complete Congressional Record here.\n\n\u201cMadam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the anthem of freedom, \u201cPatria y Vida\u201d (Homeland and Life), which became a mantra for thousands of Cubans who took to the streets to protest the brutal and murderous Cuban dictatorship.\n\nThe song is a collaboration between Cuban musicians in exile and on the island who have come together in opposition to the regime, and who together are demanding freedom of expression and respect for human rights. The co-authors are Yotuel Romero, Beatriz Luengo, Maykel Osorbo, Eliecer Marquez Duany \u201cEl Funky\u201d, Descemer Bueno, Alexander Delgado and Randy Malcom. On November 18, 2021, \u201cPatria y Vida\u201d received two Grammy awards, Song of the Year and Best Urban Song, at the 22nd Annual Latin Grammy Awards.\n\nToday, one of the co-authors of \u201cPatria y Vida,\u201d Maykel Castillo P\u00e9rez (commonly known as Maykel Osorbo), and Luis Manuel Otero Alc\u00e1ntara of the San Isidro Movement who appears in the music video, remain incarcerated in maximum security prisons in Cuba for simply participating in this song and speaking out against oppression. Another co-author, Eliecer Marquez Duany \u201cEl Funky,\u201d was sent into exile after being held on house arrest. These courageous artists suffer simply for voicing the fundamental freedoms that are the inherent rights of every person. They, and so many others in Cuba, have risked everything for freedom.\n\nMadam Speaker, the Cuban people will be free. Toward that goal, I am honored to highlight the importance of a song that has become an anthem for a movement, and for so many Cubans who are demanding freedom on the island. I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting this noble cause, in demanding that all political prisoners are released, basic rights to expression, assembly, and belief are respected, and free, fair and multiparty elections are scheduled.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/three-bilirakis-bills-pass-part-ndaa-poised-become-law", "Three Bilirakis Bills Pass as Part of the NDAA, Poised to Become Law", "2021-12-08", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC: Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) proudly cast a vote in favor of this year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which is now headed back to the Senate and then to the President to become law. The package robustly funds our national security, provides pay raises for troops, takes action to counter the growing threats posed by Russia, China, and Iran, enhances the allowable exemptions from vaccine mandates in the military (while allowing an honorable discharge for those who elect not to take the vaccine), and strengthens cybersecurity protections for our nation's critical infrastructure. The proposal also seeks accountability for President Biden's botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, including requiring a quarterly report to Congress of the Americans, allies, and assets left behind. It prohibits the Administration from providing payments or other resources to the Taliban regime. The bill also provides enhanced resources and development for military healthcare. In addition to these favorable measures, the Congressman worked hard and successfully ensured that the objectionable red flag provisions and military draft requirement for women, were stripped from the final package.\n\nThree bills the Congressman co-authored are also included as part of the final NDAA. The first two are provisions he co-authored with Congressman Raul Ruiz related to burn pits. The first measure, the Department of Defense (DoD) Burn Pits Health Provider Training Act, implements mandatory training for all DoD medical providers on the potential health effects of burn pits. This legislative change will help ensure the early identification and treatment of health issues caused by burn pit exposure. The second provision, the Reducing Exposure to Burn Pits Act, requires the DOD to provide Congress with an estimate of funding currently dedicated for incinerators and waste-to-energy disposal alternatives to burn pits. This is an important first step in stopping the use of burn pits.\n\n\"We still have a long way to go as it relates to ensuring Veterans exposed to burn pits have access to the care and benefits they have earned, and we must keep pushing our TEAM Act which will achieve that moral imperative. However, our two provisions included in this package are a huge step in the right direction,\" said Congressman Bilirakis.\n\nThe third bill included in the package, The US-Greece Defense and Interparliamentary Partnership Act, was co-authored by Representatives Bilirakis and Deutch. This legislation will strengthen the defense partnership between the United States and Greece, by supporting Greek military modernization and multilateral security efforts between Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States. \"Greece has consistently proven itself to be a reliable ally in the Eastern Mediterranean. This critical legislation bolsters Greece's efforts to modernize its armed forces, while strengthening our strategic partnership among our Hellenic partners. It also enables continued security cooperation to help facilitate enduring stability throughout the region,\" Congressman Bilirakis remarked.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-proposal-included-house-passed-annual-defense-bill", "Buchanan Proposal Included in House-Passed Annual Defense Bill", "2021-12-08", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Vern Buchanan", "B001260", "buchanan.house.gov", "buchanan", "https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressman Vern Buchanan announced today that a series of sweeping new military training reforms he has been fighting for were included in the final version of the House-passed FY22 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).\n\nThe legislation, which Buchanan introduced as a standalone bill (H.R. 5268) and then offered as an amendment to the NDAA in September, requires the Pentagon to implement more realistic training practices, develop stricter enforcement standards and ensure better oversight to prevent future military training accidents and deaths. The language closely mirrors a provision included in the final version of the NDAA which passed the U.S. House last night by a vote of 363-70.\n\nBuchanan has been a leading advocate in Congress for reforming our current training procedures and improving emergency response capabilities after the tragic death of Army Specialist Nicholas Panipinto of Bradenton. Panipinto died in a vehicle training accident in South Korea in 2019.\n\n\u201cImproving tactical vehicle safety and military training capabilities will reduce future accidents and help save lives,\u201d said Buchanan. \u201cAfter the heartbreaking death of my constituent, Nicholas Panipinto, preventing these accidents has become one of my top priorities. I am pleased to see the House take action on this bipartisan legislation and look forward to the president signing it into law.\u201d\n\nIn July, a report released from the federal government\u2019s top watchdog, which investigated non-combat tactical vehicle accidents, found that a lack of driver training and failures to properly oversee and implement key safety procedures were largely to blame for several fatal training accidents. Following this report, Buchanan called on the Pentagon to immediately adopt these recommendations.\n\n\u201cThe serious deficiencies and failures in tactical vehicle training required immediate action,\u201d said Buchanan. \u201cThe loss of a single American soldier is tragic and the continued loss of service members in training accidents is completely unacceptable.\u201d\n\nAccording to a report by the Congressional Research Service, between 2006 and 2018 a staggering 32 percent of active-duty military deaths were the result of training accidents. During that same period, only 16 percent of service members were killed in action. And in 2017 alone, nearly four times as many service members died in training accidents than were killed in action.\n\nIn sworn testimony from the master driver in Panipinto\u2019s unit, who was responsible for training troops on vehicles and administering licenses, the unit\u2019s driver training program was \u201cnonexistent.\u201d The unnamed individual went on to state, \u201cwhen I took over the program there was nothing, I had no paperwork for any soldiers with licenses. Soldiers came up to me and informed me that the previous master driver just gave them licenses without a 40-hour block of instruction.\u201d\n\nAccording to Panipinto\u2019s mother, Kimberly Weaver, Panipinto did not have a license, the required amount of driver training or any classroom instruction before beginning his road-test.\n\nLast year, Buchanan offered an amendment to the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act that was successfully signed into law. His amendment required the Department of Defense (DoD) to examine emergency response capabilities and services currently available at U.S. bases around the world, and to report to Congress on the potential benefits and feasibility of requiring bases to have properly functioning MedEvac helicopters and fully stocked military ambulances.\n\nIn August 2020, Buchanan called on the House Armed Services Committee to hold a public hearing on military training accidents. Buchanan also sent a letter to then-Secretary of Defense Mark Esper in June 2020 proposing several changes to the training and safety protocols to prevent future deaths.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-cammack-issues-statements-house-amendment-s-1605-house-amendment", "Congresswoman Cammack Issues Statements On House Amendment To S. 1605 & House Amendment To S. 610", "2021-12-08", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Kat Cammack", "C001039", "cammack.house.gov", "cammack", "https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This morning, Congresswoman Cammack issued the following statement on last night's votes on the House Amendment to S. 1605\u2014the FY22 NDAA\u2014and the House Amendment to S. 610\u2014Sequestration, PAYGO, and the Debt Limit Package.\n\nOn The FY22 NDAA:\n\n\"I want to thank the lead Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Mike Rogers, for his leadership on this piece of legislation. I join dozens of my colleagues in celebrating our collective, constructive work to get it across the finish line,\" said Rep. Kat Cammack. \"Together we kept our promises and removed dangerous red flag laws and woke policies that would establish unnecessary programs at the Department of Defense. This bill counters China, holds the administration accountable on Afghanistan, and ensures we fund our military and Florida National Guard. I'm proud to support it.\"\n\n\"Rep. Cammack has been an ally in Congress for our troops. The NDAA is critical for our nation\u2019s security, which is why it continues to have bipartisan and bicameral support,\" said Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL), Ranking Member of House Armed Services Committee. \"The FY22 NDAA strengthens our national security and provides servicemembers with the funding and tools they need. I thank Rep. Cammack for her continued support for our servicemembers.\"\n\nOn The House Amendment To S. 610:\n\n\"No one should be surprised that congressional Democrats have done it again: they've attached a debt limit increase to possible cuts to Medicare. They know that there is broad support on both sides of the aisle for mitigating large portions of these cuts, but Democrats included partisan provisions regarding the Statutory PAYGO and debt limit in their text. Republicans have offered alternatives that protect seniors and other populations to avoid damage to Medicare, but the Democrats wouldn't go for it, instead deciding to play political games. We cannot vote for a debt limit increase and urge our colleagues to the right thing to ensure our seniors aren't affected by this partisan nonsense.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=500", "Rep. Donalds Statement on Communist Comptroller Nominee Saule Omarova Withdrawing Her Nomination", "2021-12-08", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Byron Donalds", "D000032", "donalds.house.gov", "donalds", "https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON - Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) issued the following statement regarding Saule Omarova withdrawing her nomination for the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).\n\n\u201cYesterday\u2019s announcement that Saule Omarova withdrew her nomination for the OCC was a significant win for America\u2014we must always reject Communism when it knocks at our doorstep. As a proud Capitalist and American, it deeply concerns me that the Biden administration found Omarova the appropriate nominee for such a role. I find it just as disturbing that a majority of the Democrats in the Senate stood ready to confirm her absurd nomination.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=309", "Franklin Leads Letter Demanding Answers on Justice Department Efforts to Combat COVID-19 Relief Fraud", "2021-12-07", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Scott Franklin", "F000472", "franklin.house.gov", "franklin", "https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, and his colleagues sent a letter on Monday to Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco requesting information on the Justice Department\u2019s efforts to investigate and prosecute instances of COVID-19 relief fraud.\n\n\u201cThe theft of up to $280 billion in unemployment benefits due to fraudulent activity by foreign adversaries and criminals is a major scandal and a breach of our national security,\u201d said Rep. Franklin. \u201cTo put this number in perspective, the amount of pandemic relief money lost to fraud over the past 18 months is the same as we spent on the Apollo program over 13 years to put men on the moon. Where possible, the perpetrators of these crimes should be tracked down and prosecuted, and those who negligently allowed this fraud, waste, and abuse to happen must be held accountable for betraying American taxpayers\u2019 trust. Our government simply must instill stronger oversight into distribution of tax dollars. This is unacceptable and the American people deserve better.\u201d\n\nThe U.S. government has spent approximately $700 billion on unemployment benefits as part of its pandemic relief efforts. According to reports, approximately 40 percent ($280 billion) has been lost to fraud. Of the $280 billion, reports indicate that $175 billion was lost to transnational actors with $140 billion of that amount going to state-sponsored entities.\n\nAt a recent staff briefing, the Department of Justice informed the House Committee on Oversight and Reform that it has charged nearly $1 billion in intended loss, and hundreds of millions in actual loss, of COVID-19 relief to fraud. Based on estimates, this would mean there are still hundreds of billions in unidentified loss. Additionally, the Department refused to share how many active cases involve transnational or state-sponsored organizations.\n\nCongress has a Constitutional responsibility to provide oversight of the government, including government spending. As the House of Representatives\u2019 principal oversight Committee, the House Committee on Oversight has broad authority to investigate instances of fraud. Accordingly, Rep. Franklin\u2019s letter requests that the Department provide a staff-level briefing addressing the following:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=24CE7639-9415-4F74-B291-23D375737188", "Webster Slams Procedural Hijinks in Medicare Bill", "2021-12-07", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, released the following statement slamming the Democrats\u2019 use of procedural hijinks in the House Amendment to S. 610.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m appalled that Democrats in Congress are holding seniors and their healthcare providers hostage as leverage to raise the nation\u2019s debt limit and borrow more money for their spending spree. The House finally took up legislation that ensures Medicare benefits are not reduced in 2022. But, in further proof of how broken Washington is, Democrats added two other issues that have nothing to do with Medicare or our seniors!\n\n\u201cIncluded in this bill is language that suspends the requirement for Democrats to identify funding to actually pay for their partisan spending bills. Further, the bill creates an unrelated, unprecedented procedural process to waive the Senate filibuster to increase the debt ceiling. I cannot vote for this because it suspends fiscal responsibility and allows the debt limit to be raised without any details or spending reform. The reckless spending of this Congress and Administration are driving up inflation \u2013 making everything in our lives more costly. The only reason these unrelated measures are combined is because they do not have the votes to borrow and spend more money without holding Medicare hostage as leverage.\n\n\u201cI am committed to protecting the Medicare benefits that seniors in my district have earned and have introduced H.R. 6144 with my colleagues to do so. I have argued to my Republican and Democrat colleagues that the process for producing policy in Congress is deeply flawed and it has gotten exponentially worse in recent years. As a result, Congress is not passing good public policy. I am frustrated and I\u2019m sure the American people are too. I will continue to advocate for a Member-driven process that tackles key issues early; allows real, thoughtful debate on each other\u2019s policy ideas; ends the practice of waiting until the end of the year to tackle big issues; and stops combining several major policies into one bill.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D438EFAF-6343-4233-AEF8-4B4A6C00BB17", "Webster Statement on Defense Bill Vote", "2021-12-07", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R \u2013 Clermont, released the following statement on his vote to pass the House Amendment to S. 1605, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 or FY22 NDAA.\n\n\u201cBy rejecting President Biden\u2019s cuts to readiness and responsibly investing in our warfighters, training, maintenance, and critical capabilities this bill greatly improves our national defense. Further, it recognizes the threats posed by China and Iran and holds the Administration accountable for their disastrous and embarrassing withdrawal from Afghanistan.\n\n\u201cI applaud Republican negotiators for removing poison pills from this legislation, including sections that could result in women being drafted and service members being unjustly deprived of their Second Amendment rights. Our negotiators also removed provisions that would create an Office of Extremism at the Department of Defense and establish policies or require troops to take training courses about so-called extremism.\n\n\"The bill also prohibits anything other than an Honorable Discharge for servicemembers who decline a COVID-19 vaccination and requires uniform procedures for vaccine exemptions, including recognizing natural immunity. This policy will retroactively apply to the date of the DoD COVID-19 vaccine order and be in place for at least 2 years.\u201d\n\nThe FY22 NDAA:\n\nAuthorizes 2.7% pay increase for servicemembers and extends military recruitment and retention bonuses and special pay.\n\nInvests in service-member family housing.\n\nFocuses investment on new and emerging weapon systems capable of penetrating denied operating environments such as China.\n\nPuts the Navy back on track to building a 355 ship Navy.\n\nIncludes unprecedented levels of investment in emerging technologies, including AI, quantum computing, hypersonic, and autonomous systems.\n\nPrevents Russian and Chinese officials from accessing U.S. missile defense sites.\n\nPrevents President Biden\u2019s cuts to the military health program.\n\nFully funds the modernization of our nuclear triad and modernization.\n\nProhibits closing Guantanamo Bay terrorist prison or transferring of terrorists held there.\n\nRequires DoD to report to Congress on the costs and time wasted on training on topics like diversity, inclusion, and equity.\n\nOn Afghanistan, the bill requires a series of immediate reports to Congress, including:\n\nNumber of Americans left behind in Afghanistan.\n\nPersonally, identifying information and biometrics of Americans now in the hands of the Taliban.\n\nItemized lists of aircraft, combat vehicles and other U.S. military equipment left behind.\n\nThreats posed by Al Qaeda and other terrorists operating in Afghanistan.\n\nStrategic impacts of abandoning Bagram Air Base.\n\nTaliban relationship with foreign terrorist organizations.\n\nSecurity impacts on the Taliban release of terrorist prisoners.\n\nFinancial assets and other resources available to the Taliban.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/new-senior-safety-focused-initiative-pasco-and-pinellas-counties", "New Senior Safety-Focused Initiative for Pasco and Pinellas Counties", "2021-12-06", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Oldsmar, FL,\u2013 The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas (AAAPP) will hold a press conference to announce a new initiative that aims to enhance senior safety in Pasco and Pinellas counties with Congressman Gus Bilirakis and a Ring representative in attendance. With AAAPP's support, Ring, whose mission is to make neighborhoods safer, is donating 1,000 Ring Video Doorbells, including free installation and a Ring Protect subscription, to local residents 60 years and older in select cities throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties. The agency is hopeful that the donations will help promote the safety and stability of senior residents in Pasco and Pinellas counties.\n\nWHAT:\n\nPress conference to announce Ring donation and discuss AAAPP's work to empower seniors living throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties and promote their independence.\n\nWHEN:\n\nSaturday, December 11 at 11:00 a.m.\n\nWHO:\n\nCongressman Gus Bilirakis, District 12\n\nAnn Marie Winter, Executive Director of Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas\n\nJaime Hjort, Ring Representative\n\nWHERE:\n\nTLC Adult Day Care and Recreation Center\n\n3970 Tampa Rd.\n\nUnit J\n\nOldsmar, FL 34677\n\nAbout the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=499", "Rep. Donalds' Statement Calling For a Complete Boycott of the 2022 Chinese Winter Olympic Games", "2021-12-06", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Byron Donalds", "D000032", "donalds.house.gov", "donalds", "https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013\u2013 Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) issued the following statement calling for a complete boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in China.\n\n\"As America finds itself at the forefront of several self-imposed domestic hurdles, the world is also taking advantage of our weakness on the international stage. Just four months ago, our nation and the rest of the world witnessed the derelict withdrawal from Afghanistan that left 13 of our service members dead and our integrity on the world stage in chaos. While many Americans continue to focus on the mounting issues at home, be it raising gas prices, the border crisis, skyrocketing inflation, and the resurgence of COVID-related mandates, our adversaries have been on the move\u2013\u2013especially the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).\n\n\"As we rapidly approach the 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, I think it was the correct call by the president to hold a diplomatic boycott of the games in response to China's human rights abuses and crimes against humanity. While this boycott is the right message to the CCP and the world, it does not go far enough. The Biden-Harris administration must stand even firmer and call for a complete boycott of the games and prohibit all American participation from the Olympic games.\n\n\"As we witness increased tensions in Taiwan, Ukraine, and Iran, it is abundantly clear our foes are testing Biden at every turn and capitalizing on his administration's weakness. It is time Biden and his counterparts intensify their message to the world; we will not tolerate China's brutal and inhumane actions against the Uyghurs.\n\n\"We must entirely boycott the 2022 Winter Games.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-leads-letter-over-100-gop-colleagues-opposing-new-cms-vaccine", "Buchanan Leads Letter with Over 100 GOP Colleagues Opposing New CMS Vaccine Mandate", "2021-12-05", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Vern Buchanan", "B001260", "buchanan.house.gov", "buchanan", "https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Congressmen Vern Buchanan and Larry Bucshon, M.D. (R-IN) today led a letter signed by over 100 of their colleagues opposing the Biden administration\u2019s vaccine mandate for Medicare and Medicaid service providers. In a letter to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, the members urged the administration to abandon the new federal mandate.\n\nCMS\u2019s vaccine mandate, issued in November, requires health care workers whose employers participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs be fully vaccinated by January 4. There are approximately 76,000 providers that employ over 17 million health care workers that would be required to comply with the mandate. Many of America\u2019s physicians also operate as small businesses and would be required to comply with these new rules and regulations, the same as large hospitals.\n\nBuchanan noted that this could have a disastrous effect on these small businesses and access to care, especially in rural areas where doctors\u2019 offices can be few and far between. Specifically, if small doctors\u2019 offices fail to comply with the mandate, offices may be required to lay off their unvaccinated employees, cover crippling fines from CMS for keeping those employees on the payroll or close their doors completely so as not to deal with the regulatory burden of this mandate. Amid a projected national physician shortage of more than 100,000 by 2034, the members highlight how a federal vaccine mandate will only make matters worse.\n\n\u201cEnsuring continuity of quality care should be the primary goal for CMS, especially during this period of stress and uncertainty for patients and providers,\u201d said Buchanan. \u201cThis mandate could eviscerate the size and strength of our health care system and lead to unintended consequences for America\u2019s seniors, many of whom rely on Medicare as their only option for health care coverage.\u201d\n\nThere are 54 million Medicare-aged Americans, many of whom will directly feel the pressure of this mandate due to the inevitable loss of quality health care providers. Seniors could be on the hook for longer wait times for appointments, fewer available providers and adverse health outcomes as a result.\n\n\u201cWe fully support your agency\u2019s goal of \u201c[e]nsuring patient safety and protection,\u201d but if seniors are unable to access care because their provider no longer participates in the Medicare program, this rule will undermine its stated goal,\u201d said the members in the letter. \u201cBy subjecting providers to egregious federal overreach, our nation\u2019s most vulnerable populations will be at risk and America\u2019s seniors will bear the brunt of any provider loss due to non-compliance with this heavy-handed and constitutionally dubious vaccine mandate.\u201d\n\nWhile the implementation of the final CMS rule is on hold until it works its way through the court system, fully abandoning this one-size-fits-all federal mandate will relieve any undue burden on America\u2019s already-struggling health care providers.\n\nYou can read a full copy of the letter here or below.\n\nDear Administrator Brooks-LaSure:\n\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has taken a significant toll on the American public both physically and emotionally for almost two years. In that time, though, multiple vaccines have become widely available for those wishing to be vaccinated. According to the Mayo Clinic, nearly 60 percent of the United States population over the age of 12 is fully vaccinated, including over 83 percent of the Medicare-aged population.[1]\n\nThankfully, the United States has seen an overall decrease in new COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations and deaths since vaccines became readily available,[2] and while we are not yet out of the woods, many are saying the end of the pandemic is in sight. Former Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D. recently stated the pandemic \u201cmay well be over\u201d by January 4,[3] which is the deadline the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) set for complying with either its vaccination mandate or enforcing the continued use of masks and weekly testing.\n\nAt a time when we are facing a growing health care workforce shortage \u2013 including a projected physician shortage of more than 100,000 by 2034[4] \u2013 implementing a federal vaccine mandate will only serve to exacerbate the problem. By your own admission, \u201c[t]hese requirements will apply to approximately 76,000 providers and cover over 17 million health care workers across the country.\u201d[5] It is difficult, if not impossible, to reconcile the rationale for implementing a mandate like this at the tail end of the pandemic while we, as a nation, are struggling to staff hospitals, physician offices and other ancillary providers.\n\nWe fully support your agency\u2019s goal of \u201c[e]nsuring patient safety and protection,\u201d but if seniors are unable to access care because their provider no longer participates in the Medicare program, this rule will undermine its stated goal. By subjecting providers to egregious federal overreach, our nation\u2019s most vulnerable populations will be at risk and America\u2019s seniors will bear the brunt of any provider loss due to non-compliance with this heavy-handed and constitutionally dubious vaccine mandate. Americans are quitting their jobs at a record pace, and this new federal mandate will only make matters worse and keep more Americans out of the workforce.[6]\n\nThere are over 54 million Medicare-aged Americans,[7] and it is our duty as Members of Congress representing those seniors to ensure they maintain access to their preferred health care provider. This is especially true when that means opposing an administrative agency\u2019s actions that will lead to fewer options for our constituents; longer wait times; and the inevitability of adverse health outcomes due to fewer available providers.\n\nWe strongly urge you to abandon implementing this onerous new rule and instead heed current statistics that show seniors are vaccinated at a higher rate than the rest of the population of vaccinated Americans while also uniquely vulnerable to disruptions in the health care system and consider the potentially negative consequences this mandate will have on the size and strength of our health care workforce. To truly ensure patient safety and protection, we must preserve Americans\u2019 access to their preferred providers rather than impose a new one-size-fits-all federal mandate on our nation\u2019s health care providers at a time when they can least afford it.\n\nSincerely,", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=498", "Rep. Donalds Statement Regarding the Abysmal Jobs Report and American Economy", "2021-12-03", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Byron Donalds", "D000032", "donalds.house.gov", "donalds", "https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON - Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) issued the following statement on the abysmal November jobs report and the overall failing American economy.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s jobs report that missed Wall Street\u2019s expectations by more than 360,000 jobs is another glaring example of the failed policies coming from President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and the Democrats that control the House and Senate. While Democrats continue to look for the root causes of the disastrous economy and continue to blame the ongoing COVID pandemic, all roads lead back to the economic illiteracy of Democrats in power.\n\n\u201cAmerican families just faced the most expensive Thanksgiving on record, and now, three weeks away from Christmas, the American people continue to struggle due to Biden\u2019s ineptitude. Gas prices are up nearly 60%, fuel for heating homes has more than doubled, and shelves are running bare due to the ongoing supply chain crisis.\n\n\u201cWhile families in Florida\u2019s 19th Congressional District and across the nation face unimaginable economic difficulties, Democrats are shrugging off these mounting issues and proceeding with their radical agenda. Amid rising gas prices, the Secretary of Energy laughed, and Secretary Buttigieg told Americans to buy an electric vehicle to avoid the rise in prices. Coupled with their offensive and flat-out tone-deaf messaging, Democrats on Capitol Hill continue jamming through Biden\u2019s multi-trill-dollar socialist tax and spending plan.\n\n\u201cThe state of the American economy is in peril at the hands of the Democrats, who have one goal in mind to systematically transform America and hand over our exceptionalism to the rest of the world. We cannot afford to allow them to succeed in this mission.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-brings-attention-supply-chain-woes", "Bilirakis Brings Attention to Supply Chain Woes", "2021-12-02", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC: Every American has noticed empty shelves and experienced delivery delays for many products, including: new vehicles, toilet paper, toys, and smartphones. Supermarkets, restaurants, and school cafeterias also report missing shipments. Experts are also predicting that the supply chain crisis will lead to a less than merry Christmas for many American children as toys are expected to be in short supply this season, according to the Toy Association. Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis took to the House Floor to discuss the urgent need to prioritize and address our nation's current supply chain problems which have led to these costly and inconvenient disruptions.\n\n\"I refuse to stand by and watch as America's ability to ensure the safe and efficient movement of goods, people, and services throughout our transportation network continues to be diluted,\" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. \"Our priority focus right now should be strengthening our nation's economy and increasing our global competitiveness. The policies of this President and Democrat party leaders in Congress are exacerbating or simply ignoring the underlying supply chain crisis. These policies include the mishandling of the COVID response in ways that are prolonging unemployment and worker shortages across the economy and pushing for a multi-trillion-dollar spending spree that is driving up prices of everything from gas to groceries. These efforts only serve to weaken American competitiveness and shrink our economy.\"\n\nThe supply chain problem is a complex one that boils down to the fact that America relies heavily on the import of goods. About 90% of all goods are shipped across an ocean. China has been implementing partial shutdowns due to new COVID cases and has forced power cutbacks amid an energy shortage. In fact, factories across Asia are shipping fewer goods. To make matters worse, there are not enough workers to process, move, sell, and deliver all the goods coming into U.S. ports across the country fast enough. A national shortage of truck drivers is also making it harder for goods to quickly reach warehouses, which themselves are understaffed. Once goods do arrive in the U.S., there can still be big backups. For example, in LA, a record 70 cargo ships were waiting to get into the LA and Long Beach ports in mid-September. Together, these two ports handle roughly 40% of the nation's imported goods. Moreover, the cost to ship those goods skyrocketed as containers filled up faster than China \u2014 where most containers are made could produce them. That is causing additional delays.\n\nThe current supply chain crisis exposes the country's dependence on imports and how close to its limit its transportation system operates. There is little redundant capacity. Once bottlenecks develop, cargo gridlocks, and remains stranded offshore on ships that overcrowd the coastline, creating additional safety and environmental risks. For example, clustering many container ships waiting to be unloaded increases the risk of large anchors damaging our underwater infrastructure, such as pipelines. This unfortunately was likely the case with the recent Huntington Beach oil spill. Rather than responding to an oil spill, prevention is the best way to avoid environmental damage. This environmental and economic harm could have been avoided in the first place had this Congress and the Biden Administration remained focused on our core transportation network assets, instead of the green and social infrastructure fantasy they have advanced after months of infighting.\n\nDespite calls from the private sector for help addressing growing supply chain issues, like expanding capacity, the Biden Administration has only further fueled the crisis by increasing energy costs, triggering significant inflation through reckless unchecked spending, and attacking American businesses. Ironically, it is now the private sector that the Administration is calling on to \"step up\" and fix the supply chain problems.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-honor-our", "Diaz-Balart, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Honor our Nation's Veterans and Fallen Heroes", "2021-12-02", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Mario Diaz-Balart", "D000600", "mariodiazbalart.house.gov", "mariodiazbalart", "https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2013 Today, Representatives Mario Diaz-Balart, Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28), Kay Granger (R-TX-12), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-20), and John Rutherford (R-FL-4) introduced the 13 Folds of Honor Act, a bill that provides a script to be read during official or burial flag-folding ceremonies.\n\nA flag-folding presentation honors the service and sacrifice of veterans or deceased servicemembers. The ceremonial folding and presentation of the flag is a moving tribute of lasting importance to a veteran's family. This script emphasizes the meaning of each of the 13 folds that symbolize our nation's unity and immeasurable respect for veterans and their families.\n\n\u201cThis legislation honors the 13 servicemembers who courageously gave their last full measure of devotion and sacrifice to our country,\" said Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart. \"It also serves as a sobering reminder that for every fallen servicemember, there is a story of a Gold Star Family who stands boldly in their legacy. While there are no words to ease their loss, we hope the 13 Folds of Honor script symbolizes our immense gratitude, respect, and appreciation for their service to our nation. A special thank you to Commander Dr. J.B. Holmes of the Golden Gate VFW Post 7721 for his dedicated service to the veteran community and for bringing this important tribute to light.\u201d\n\nThis legislation commemorates our 13 fallen servicemembers including my own constituent, Lance Corporal David Lee Espinoza. Mr. Espinoza, a Laredo native Marine, will always be remembered,\" said Congressman Cuellar. \"He embodied the values of America: grit, dedication, service, and valor. May the language shared with the official flag folding ceremony continue to reflect the symbol of respect, honor and freedom that our brave servicemembers and their families do every day.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur brave service members devote their lives to defending the flag and the sacred institution she represents,\" said Congresswoman Granger. \"The 13 Folds of Honor is a fitting tribute to our fallen heroes and commemorates a life dedicated to freedom and liberty.\u201d\n\n\"As a veteran of the Afghanistan War, I saw firsthand how the 13 Folds of Honor ceremony has become an integral part of paying tribute and respect to those who have served and sacrificed for America,\u201d said Congressman Panetta. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation would codify those words by providing the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs with official language for ceremonial flag foldings. Those few words that would be said during the 13 folds of our nation\u2019s flag during such ceremonies are much deserved for the many deeds of the men and women who served us.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe owe a debt of gratitude to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms,\u201d said Congressman Rutherford. \u201cThis bill will codify the meaningful tribute said while folding a burial or ceremonial flag in memory of the fallen.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-lawson-introduce-keep-children-and-families-safe-lead-hazards-act", "Rutherford, Lawson Introduce the Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act", "2021-12-02", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "John H. Rutherford", "R000609", "rutherford.house.gov", "rutherford", "https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C \u2013 Today, U.S. Representatives John Rutherford (FL-04) and Al Lawson (FL-05) introduced the Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act. This legislation requires that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) assess annually the risks of lead-based hazards on housing properties receiving federal rental assistance. It also directs HUD to develop an action plan that outlines necessary changes for properties at risk for lead exposure hazards.\n\n\"It is inexcusable that some living in public housing have experienced dangerous levels of lead exposure, threatening their health and safety,\" said Rutherford. \"I am proud to join a bipartisan coalition working to hold HUD accountable for any lead-based hazards in their facilities. Thank you to Rep. Lawson for leading this important effort.\"\n\n\"Every family deserves to live in a home that is free of danger, yet far too many households are detrimentally impacted by lead poisoning,\" said Lawson. \"Our residents should not have to worry about the risk of lead exposure and the harmful impact this hazardous toxin can cause. The Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act will raise the standard of federally-assisted housing by enforcing accountability and improving the living conditions for our most vulnerable citizens. I am pleased to work with Rep. Rutherford on this critical legislation to protect the safety and health of North Florida's children and families.\"\n\nMany properties in Florida and nationwide were built before the 1978 ban on lead paint in residential buildings. According to the CDC, 3.6 million American families are at risk of lead-based paint contamination in their homes, including 340,000 children living in Section 8 housing.\n\nThe Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act improves conditions and protects the health and well-being of millions of Americans living in Section 8 properties. The risk assessment portion of this legislation will identify properties with the greatest risk of exposing children under age six to lead-based hazards. The action plan will include remediation steps and safeguards that address the lead-based hazards, and priority for executing these plans will be given to properties with children under the age of six years old.\n\nThe legislation also directs HUD to submit a report to Congress regarding the at-risk properties and the number of children impacted by lead-based hazards, which will be included as a graded factor in uniform physical condition inspections. In doing so, hazards will be regularly tracked and owners of properties will be held accountable for methods of reformation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-takes-stand-life", "Bilirakis Takes A Stand for Life", "2021-12-01", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC: Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis spoke on the House Floor about the need to defend life. His speech was delivered on the same day the United States Supreme Court heard opening arguments in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. This Supreme Court case, which reflects the most significant legal challenge on the issue of abortion since Roe vs. Wade, has the ability to set new precedent with regard to individual states' abilities to protect unborn children. It will also better establish the rights states have to legislate on the matter of abortion. In the years following Roe vs. Wade, more than 60 million unborn children have lost their lives to abortion. During that time, medical advances have also made remarkable strides and offer new insight into the stages of human development.\n\n\"As this landmark case progresses, I am mindful that modern science confirms that every unborn child is a human life,\" said Congressman Bilirakis. \"As early as 5 weeks, unborn babies have a heartbeat, and the brain and spinal cord are developing. By week 10, babies have arms and legs, fingers, and toes. They can kick and jump if startled. At week 15, babies have fully developed hearts that pump 26 quarts of blood per day. They can taste and make facial expressions. We know at this stage, they yawn, hiccup, swallow, and suck their thumbs. During this time period, painful procedures trigger a hormonal stress response. And, due to advances in technology, an unborn child is now viable outside the womb at 22 weeks or earlier. Federal abortion laws are stuck in the past. Now that we have the benefit of scientific knowledge on the stages of human development, our laws must reflect these realities and be realigned to protect the unborn!\"\n\nAt the center of this legal battle is a Mississippi law passed in 2018 which limits abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy. There are statutory exceptions to save the life and preserve the physical health of the mother, or in cases of severe fetal abnormality. The law was passed by overwhelming majorities in the state legislature and signed by then-Governor Phil Bryant. In a direct challenge to Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, the Supreme Court announced in May 2021 it would review the Mississippi law and will specifically consider the question of whether or not all pre-viability bans on abortion are unconstitutional. It is important to note that the United States is one of only four countries that allows abortion-on-demand throughout all nine months of pregnancy. In fact, more than 75% of countries throughout the world do not permit elective abortion past the 12th week of gestation.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-office-to-host-mobile-office-hours-in-sarasota-county/", "Steube Office to Host Mobile Office Hours in Sarasota County", "2021-12-01", "2021", "2021-12", "Republican", "House", "FL", "W. Gregory Steube", "S001214", "steube.house.gov", "steube", "https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Steube Office to Host Mobile Office Hours in Sarasota County\n\nNORTH PORT, FLA. \u2013 The office of U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) is hosting mobile office hours tomorrow, Thursday, December 2, 2021, from 11am-1pm in North Port, Fla.\n\n\u201cMy office can be a resource to you if you have any issues with federal agencies like the VA or the IRS,\u201d Steube said. \u201cWhile we cannot guarantee you a favorable outcome, we will do our best to help you receive a timely response to your problem.\u201d\n\nMobile Office Hours Location: City of North Port, Conference Room 302, 4790 City Hall Blvd North Port, FL 34286.\n\nResidents of the 17th Congressional District of Florida can contact Steube\u2019s office for assistance in dealing with Federal agencies. In order to get assistance, individuals will need to fill out a Privacy Act Release Form. The letter must be signed by the person directly affected.\n\nIf you cannot attend, please visit here for information on how to get help with a federal agency.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:37:48Z"], ["https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=206", "Congressman Dunn Fights for Medicare Patients", "2021-11-30", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Neal P. Dunn", "D000628", "dunn.house.gov", "dunn", "https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (Florida-02) released the following statement ahead of the fiscal deadline for 2022.\n\n\"Patients in my district could lose their doctors unless Congress takes immediate action. Beginning January 1st, 2022, medical providers will endure a 10% cut in their Medicare reimbursement payments. This is bad news for my constituents and the rest of America, especially our seniors.\n\nIf you have Medicare today, will you have a doctor tomorrow? Many providers may be forced to close their doors or stop accepting Medicare entirely, thus limiting access to care when patients need it most. That\u2019s my focus heading into 2022. I will vote NO on any legislation that extends government funding beyond December 31st without protecting my constituents\u2019 relationships with their doctors.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-honors-area-student-who-invented-potentially-life-saving-app", "Buchanan Honors Area Student Who Invented Potentially Life-saving App", "2021-11-29", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Vern Buchanan", "B001260", "buchanan.house.gov", "buchanan", "https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "SARASOTA, Fla \u2014 Congressman Vern Buchanan on Monday recognized Jace Billingsley as the winner of the 2021 Congressional District App Challenge. Billingsley designed a software application to help health care workers administer the American Heart Association\u2019s recommended interventions used to resuscitate patients experiencing cardiac or respiratory failure, also known as a \u201ccode blue.\u201d\n\nBuchanan hailed the ingenuity of Billingsley, saying \u201cI can\u2019t commend him enough for inventing such an important and potentially life-saving tool. I\u2019m proud to name Jace this year\u2019s winner of the 16th Congressional District App Challenge, part of a national competition to encourage interest in science, technology, engineering and math.\u201d\n\nJace Billingsley is 13-years-old and a 7th grade student at Buffalo Creek Middle School in Palmetto, Fla.\n\n\u201cSTEM education gives students the tools they need to succeed and help the U.S. compete in an increasingly global 21st century economy,\u201d Buchanan continued. \u201cChildren are 25 percent of the population, but 100 percent of the future, and the future is in good hands with students like Jacob.\u201d\n\nThe winning entry, \u201cThe Code Blue App\u201d is made for hospital staff and other health care workers to help accurately time the various and simultaneous physical, electrical and chemical interventions used to resuscitate a patient when they experience cardiac or respiratory failure. The American Heart Association regularly updates the sequence and timing of these actions, which are built into The Code Blue App to assist the health care worker save lives during a code blue emergency. The app also records the necessary data needed for the patient\u2019s medical records and downloads the file to a computer.\n\nThe app will be featured on CongressionalAppChallenge.us and will also be eligible to have photos of its interface displayed in the U.S. Capitol.\n\n\u201cI enjoy working with practical applications and I cannot think of anything more practical than an app that could be used by hospitals to help save someone\u2019s life,\u201d said Billingsley. \u201cMy dad works in healthcare and participates in code blues regularly. The Code Blue App can help healthcare workers in the event of a code blue, where timing is most critical.\"\n\nThe U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts overall employment in the economy to grow by 7.7 percent between 2020 and 2030, while jobs in STEM fields are expected to grow by 10.5 percent. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, college-educated STEM job holders earn between 29 percent and 39 percent more per hour than non-STEM employees with equivalent educational attainment.\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge was created by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015 and allows students to compete against their peers across the country by creating an app for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, raspberry Pi or other devices. The challenge is designed to promote innovation and engagement in computer science.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=279", "Franklin Calls on Biden Administration to Keep FARC on Designated Terrorist List", "2021-11-26", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Scott Franklin", "F000472", "franklin.house.gov", "franklin", "https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement in response to a report that the Biden Administration plans to remove the FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) from the list of designated foreign terrorist organizations:\n\nOnce again, the Biden Administration is signaling weakness to our enemies and allies through its plan to remove the FARC as a designated terrorist group. The FARC are a ruthless terrorist group responsible for the deaths of countless innocent people. For decades it has used extortion, kidnapping, murder, terrorism, and drug trafficking to threaten regional security.\n\nThe FARC has allied itself with the worst actors in our hemisphere, including the Maduro regime in Venezuela, and has proven to be an international menace. Thousands of Colombian Americans living in Florida know all too well the terrible crimes this group has committed. It is on their behalf that I call on the Biden Administration to cease its plans to remove the FARC from the list of designated foreign terrorist organizations.\n\nRelated News\n\nFranklin Supports Passage of 2023 National Defense Authorization Act\n\nMarch 29, 2023 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nFranklin and Colleagues Demand Answers from Pentagon Regarding Senior Official\u2019s Racially Divisive Statements\n\nJanuary 11, 2023 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nFranklin Applauds House Passage of Critical Defense Bill\n\nJuly 20, 2022 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nFranklin Secures Key Provisions in 2023 House Defense Spending Bill\n\nJune 24, 2022 | Posted in Press Releases\n\nFranklin, Bacon, Lamb, and Carbajal Introduce Bill to Establish the Technology Competitiveness Council\n\nJune 22, 2022 | Posted in Press Releases", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-and-members-florida-congressional-delegation-urge-cms-protect", "Bilirakis and Members of the Florida Congressional Delegation Urge CMS to Protect Patient Access to Advanced Cancer Treatment", "2021-11-23", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Gus Bilirakis and a bipartisan/bicameral group of Florida Congressional members wrote a letter to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure urging the agency to exclude low-volume modalities such as proton beam therapy (PBT) from the Radiation Oncology (RO) Model, which is set to begin January 2022 and threatens to cut up to 50 percent in Medicare reimbursements to providers of this high-quality radiation treatment. Florida-based PBT centers are some of the most advanced in the nation, treating more than 14,000 cancer patients including thousands of pediatric patients to date.\n\nJoining Bilirakis were Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), U.S. Representatives Kat Cammack (R-FL), John Rutherford (R-FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Gregory Steube (R-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), and Al Lawson (D-FL).\n\n\"It [proton beam therapy] is a more effective, precise, and safer alternative to conventional radiation therapies widely available today,\" the lawmakers wrote. \"While traditional radiation therapies often harm healthy tissues and organs, PBT limits radiation exposure, thus reducing side effects, and lowering the risk of secondary cancers. Florida's pediatrics population particularly benefits from PBT as it reduces the risk of developmental, hormonal, muscular, and skeletal deficiencies, including hearing loss. Florida is proud to call the nation's leading PBT center home, which opened in 2006 and treats patients of all ages, including more than 2,000 children. Furthermore, PBT centers across the state are effectively treating patients who are diagnosed with localized tumors such as brain, breast, head and neck, eye, gastrointestinal, lung, prostate, esophageal, and other cancers. While this RO Model would only impact Medicare beneficiaries, the reimbursement cuts threaten to disrupt care for all PBT patients as these centers treat a significant amount of Medicare patients. The cut to Medicare for cancer modalities continues to negatively impact the most vulnerable in our country, creating further health inequities.\"\n\nThe full text of the letter is below. Dear Administrator Brooks-LaSure:\n\nWe write with regard to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed Radiation Oncology Model (RO Model) that threatens to cut funding to radiation therapy services that thousands of Floridians rely on to fight cancer. While we appreciate CMS' efforts to develop an Alternative Payment Model (APM) with the goal of improving cancer care and reducing provider burden, we are concerned that the proposed rule will disproportionally impact innovative cancer therapies, especially Proton Beam Therapy (PBT). Under the RO Model, PBT faces a possible base payment reduction of up to 50 percent compared to other modalities that will see a significantly less reduction.\n\nTo date, more than 14,000 cancer patients have benefited from PBT provided at Florida-based centers. It is a more effective, precise, and safer alternative to conventional radiation therapies widely available today. While traditional radiation therapies often harm healthy tissues and organs, PBT limits radiation exposure, thus reducing side effects, and lowering the risk of secondary cancers. Florida's pediatrics population particularly benefits from PBT as it reduces the risk of developmental, hormonal, muscular, and skeletal deficiencies, including hearing loss. Florida is proud to call the nation's leading PBT center home, which opened in 2006 and treats patients of all ages, including more than 2,000 children. Furthermore, PBT centers across the state are effectively treating patients who are diagnosed with localized tumors such as brain, breast, head and neck, eye, gastrointestinal, lung, prostate, esophageal, and other cancers. While this RO Model would only impact Medicare beneficiaries, the reimbursement cuts threaten to disrupt care for all PBT patients as these centers treat a significant amount of Medicare patients. The cut to Medicare for cancer modalities continues to negatively impact the most vulnerable in our country, creating further health inequities.\n\nLast year, Congress recognized the importance of protecting innovative RO modalities by delaying the implementation of the RO Model until January 1, 2022. With this deadline fast approaching, we urge CMS to exclude low-volume modalities such as PBT from the RO Model as it did for brachytherapy in the latest final rule. We note that CMS reviewed hospital outpatient episodes of care, of which PBT only made up less than one percent.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B0488CFA-54E3-4ACE-8589-6D0A9A8F1E80", "Webster Joins Colleagues to Defend Rights of Healthcare Providers", "2021-11-22", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) joined Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) and 98 colleagues to introduce the Conscience Protection Act, which would strengthen the rights of healthcare providers to object to medical procedures, namely abortion, that they hold serious moral or religious objections to.\n\n\u201cLife is our most precious gift and an unalienable right promised to every American in our Declaration of Independence. Sadly, my Democratic colleagues and the current administration are now pushing policies and abandoning bipartisan provisions that protect the right to life,\u201c said Congressman Webster. \u201cI have fought to defend the rights of the unborn and to protect the religious liberties of thousands of healthcare professionals opposed to abortion. I will not waver in this fight.\u201c\n\nCurrently, enforcement of existing federal conscience statutes relies on action from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and recent moves by the Biden Administration have made clear that they have little interest in protecting employees from discrimination should they morally or religiously object to participating in certain medical procedures. The Conscience Protection Act would, among other provisions, provide a private right of action for employees to defend their conscience rights in court by suing their employer if punished or terminated for registering moral or religious objections.\n\nFor the full bill text, click here. An identical version was introduced by Senator Lankford (R-OK) in February 2021. What others are saying about the bill:\n\n\u201cIt is hard to imagine a more blatant civil rights violation that being forced to abandon your beliefs and take part in ending an innocent human life. HHS found that the University of Vermont Medical Center forced a nurse, against her known religious beliefs, to do just that. This is not only fundamentally wrong, but a direct violation of federal law. Yet the Department of Justice voluntarily dismissed the case against UVMC,\u201d said William E. Lori, Archbishop of Baltimore and Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Pro-Life Activities. \u201cWe have said before that the need for the Conscience Protection Act cannot be questioned. The need is more vital now than ever. The Department of Justice is clearly signaling that conscience rights violations in health care can be violated with impunity. We call on Congress to stand up for the basic dignity of our nation\u2019s health care workers and pass the Conscience Protection Act so that doctors and nurses can defend their own rights in court.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are proud to stand with Congressman Harris \u2013 a staunch defender of unborn life and pro-life Americans \u2013 as he reintroduces the Conscience Protection Act,\u201d said the Honorable Marilyn Musgrave, Vice President of Government Affairs for Susan B. Anthony List. \u201cWe\u2019re thankful that the bill has been fortified and now includes pharmacists in its definition of \u2018health care providers.\u2019 This is a welcome, necessary response to the Biden administration\u2019s reckless attempts to turn every post office and pharmacy into an abortion center by forcing dangerous chemical abortion drugs on innocent women who need help and care \u2013 not a prescription for a toxic abortion cocktail. This bill rightfully empowers medical professionals to protect life, not destroy it.\u201d\n\n\u201cConscience rights for medical professionals are under threat like never before under the Biden administration,\u201d said Connor Semelsberger, Director of Federal Affairs for Life and Human Dignity at Family Research Council. \u201cNo health care practitioner, no matter who is president, should be forced to perform abortions or sterilization procedures against their conscience. Thank you to Representative Harris for introducing legislation to ensure medical professionals are protected regardless of who is in charge of enforcing conscience laws.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-and-members-florida-delegation-demand-answers", "Bilirakis and Members of the Florida Delegation Demand Answers", "2021-11-19", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Congressman Gus Bilirakis and a group of his Florida Congressional Delegation Colleagues sent a letter to U.S Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland requesting a full accounting of the administration's actions followingreportsthat more than 70 flights carrying illegal immigrants have secretly landed in Jacksonville, FL over the past six months.\n\n\"Floridians deserve answers about who is being brought into our state and what safeguards are in place to ensure our communities remain safe,\" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis.\n\nSpecifically, the lawmakers demanded to know \"who is being transported, their immigration status, whether they have been tested for COVID-19 or have shown proof of vaccination, final destinations and any applicable security reviews performed. Information should also include when the transportation first took place, the number of migrants transported to date, as well as future planned or estimated travel, whether state, county or local government entities were alerted prior to arrival and any federal resources provided to assist with the migrants, and any follow-up actions, including whether a notice to appear was issued.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-takes-strong-stance-against-socialism-votes-against-leftist-tax-and", "Bilirakis Takes a Strong Stance Against Socialism - Votes Against Leftist Tax and Spending Spree", "2021-11-19", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "November 19, 2021\n\nWashington, DC: Earlier today, Speaker Pelosi pushed through a more than 2,100-page tax and spending bill that contains wasteful spending that will fuel already record-high inflation. The bill also contains many far-left socialist policies that Americans have already rejected. Contrary to claims made by President Biden about this bill costing the American tax payers nothing, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office indicates that this bill will add at least $367 billion to the deficit over the next ten years.\n\n\"My constituents and countless small businesses in my district are already suffering due to the reckless behavior of this Administration and Congressional Democrats. They are grappling with government intrusion into all aspects of their lives, spending more on everything due to skyrocketing inflation, and seeing unnecessary delays due to the national supply chain shortage,\" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. \"The items funded in this bill do not reflect the priorities and values of my constituents. This package also does not offer the solutions American families need to the real challenges they are facing. In fact, many of its provisions will only make their situations worse, which is why I voted no!\"\n\nIn a bill plagued with irresponsible spending and radical policies, Congressman Bilirakis has identified the Top 16 most objectionable portions of the spending bill below.\n\nIncludes new incentives for illegal immigration: Illegal immigrants would be eligible for federal student aid (page 78) and the enhanced child tax credit (page 1647)\n\nDrives up costs on Americans' utility bills: Includes a tax on natural gas, up to $1,500 per ton, that could cost the American economy an estimated $9.1 billion and eliminate 90,000 American jobs (page 361). This will have a negative impact on all Americans who consume electricity, not just those making over $400,000 annually as the White House claims. Additionally, 9% of people making between $0 and $50,000 will see a tax increase under this bill, while 22% of those who make between $50,000-$100,000 will see their taxes increase.\n\nTax benefits for the top 1%: Increases the cap on state and local tax deductibility, meaning many of the wealthiest Americans would pay less in taxes. (page 1729) Since 90% of Americans don't itemize their taxes, the increased SALT deductions won't benefit them. It is estimated however, that 2/3 millionaires in the U.S. will see a significant tax reduction due to this provision.\n\nMakes it easier for the IRS to target taxpayers: Creates an $80 billion slush fund to hire an 87,000-IRS-agent army that would be used to carry out the Biden administration's plan to review every account with more than $10,000 worth of transactions in a year (This applies to all Americans who spend at least $30 per day on average). The plan includes hiring 5,000 new armed criminal agents (page 1923). Also makes it easier for the IRS to issue penalties against taxpayers by removing the IRS supervisor approval requirement for each audit (page 1934).\n\nIncreases out of pocket costs for those who rely on prescription drugs: The bill will repeal the Trump-era Rebate Rule which passes through drug rebates directly to consumers at the point of sale (page 2114).\n\nPushes Green New Deal in our universities: Democrats include a $10 billion \"environmental justice\" higher education credit program to indoctrinate college students and advance Green New Deal policies (page 1571). It also includes kickbacks for the Left's green energy special interest network with $3 billion for \"environmental and climate justice block grants\" (page 373) and tens of billions more for green energy special interest subsidies, loans and other carve outs.\n\nPerpetuates labor shortage: Continues welfare benefits without work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents at a time where there are 10.4 million job openings\u2014more openings than there are people looking for work.\n\nBillions for \"Tree Equity\": Includes a $2.5 billion slush fund, sending tax dollars to radical environmental groups to plant trees and advance \"tree equity.\" (page 18)\n\nGives wealthy Americans tax credits: Includes hundreds of billions of dollars in \"green energy\" tax credits for those who can afford expensive electric vehicles and other \"green\" innovative products (page 1434). For example, a tax credit worth up to $900 will be offered when someone purchases an electric bicycle. The credit wouldn't start to phase out until a family makes at least $150,000 a year. (page 1527)\n\nPushes Democrats' wasteful and confusing school lunch agenda: Allocates $250 million for, among other things, \"procuring\u2026culturally appropriate foods\" (page 275)\n\nInnovation-killing Socialist Price Controls: Institutes a government price-setting of prescription drugs which has shown to be likely to lead to significantly decreased private investment in new cures. (page 1977)\n\nSubjects small business to reckless tax penalties: Subjects small businesses with over $600 in transactions to backup tax withholding requirements if they fail to comply with IRS regulations (page 1932). Hammers small businesses that file as individual tax earners with Obamacare's 3.8% tax on net investment income(page 1883).\n\nMoney for Gun Control: Spends $2.5 billion for \"Community-based Violence Intervention initiatives\" which could be used to deny the individual exercise of the 2nd Amendment without due process. (page 876).\n\nIncludes legislative hull for Biden's vaccine mandate: Increases OSHA penalties on businesses that fail to implement the vaccine mandate up to $700,000 per violation (page 105) and includes nearly a billion dollars in funding for the Department of Labor to increase enforcement of these penalties (page 103).\n\nIncreases energy dependence on OPEC, Russia and China: The bill includes mineral and energy withdrawals on federal lands (page 912) and overturns provisions included in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that authorized energy production in the Arctic.\n\nAllows taxpayer money to fund elective abortions and subsidizes healthcare plans that cover them by removing the Hyde Amendment.\n\nThis bill is so toxic for the American people that Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy spent over 8 hours slamming how this 2,000+ page monstrosity is bad for our nation, bad for American families, and bad for our future. Congressman Bilirakis will keep fighting against enactment of this harmful legislation by working with his Senate colleagues.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammack-issues-statement-hell-no-vote-against-hr-5376-build", "Congresswoman Kat Cammack Issues Statement On \"Hell No\" Vote Against H.R. 5376, The \"Build Back Better Act\"", "2021-11-19", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Kat Cammack", "C001039", "cammack.house.gov", "cammack", "https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Kat Cammack issued the following statement about her \"hell no\" vote against H.R. 5376, the \"Build Back Better Act:\"\n\n\"Since this bill's inception, and throughout its many changes, iterations, versions, and revisions, I've maintained that this bill is a heaping pile of garbage,\" said Rep. Cammack. \"It's an American dream killer, sells future generations down the river, and utterly changes the moral fabric of our nation for the worse. From the very beginning, we've known that this bill would cost the American people trillions of dollars, yet even without a CBO score, congressional Democrats wanted to forge ahead with a vote on this disastrous piece of legislation, ignoring the dangerous implications it will have on already-soaring inflation and our economy.\n\n\"To say I'm disappointed is an understatement. This bill is full of radical, liberal wish list priorities, including amnesty for millions of illegal immigrants, 87,000 new IRS agents to target the working-class Americans, higher taxes for the American middle class, regulations that will crush American businesses, and the list goes on.\n\n\"One thing I can say with extreme certainty: the House's passage of this dumpster fire of a bill just solidified an overwhelming Republican majority in 2022. Now we sit back and wait for the record number of retirements by House Democrats; they know they won't survive this, but they voted for it anyway. Shame on them.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=377", "Franklin Votes Against President Biden's Disastrous Spending Plan", "2021-11-19", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Scott Franklin", "F000472", "franklin.house.gov", "franklin", "https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15) issued the following statement after voting against H.R. 5376, the so-called Build Back Better Act:\n\nThis morning, I voted against irresponsible government spending and in favor of putting our country back on the path to economic prosperity. President Biden\u2019s $1.75 trillion spending plan will further escalate inflation, add to our national debt, and expand government control over our daily lives. Democrats claim this bill will help address our economic woes, but all they\u2019ve managed to do is ram through the largest taxing and spending bill in United States history.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-legislation-to-waive-burdensome-fees-for-veterans-introduced-in-the-senate/", "Steube Legislation to Waive Burdensome Fees for Veterans Introduced in the Senate", "2021-11-19", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "W. Gregory Steube", "S001214", "steube.house.gov", "steube", "https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Steube Legislation to Waive Burdensome Fees for Veterans Introduced in the Senate\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014 The Senate companion bill to U.S. Representative Greg Steube\u2019s (R-Fla.) legislation, the Free Veterans from Fees Act, was introduced by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.).\n\n\u201cOur veterans have made countless sacrifices to protect our freedoms, and the least we can do is ensure that they are not subjected to burdensome fees when visiting memorials built in their honor,\u201d Steube said. \u201cI am honored that Senator Rubio is championing this effort in the Senate to free our veterans from these unnecessary fees and make their lives a little easier.\u201d\n\nThe Free Veterans from Fees Act passed the House of Representatives earlier this Congress with bipartisan support. This legislation waives special-use permit fees for veterans\u2019 demonstrations and special events at war memorials administered by the National Park Service in the District of Columbia.\n\n\u201cThis legislation is simple: veterans should not have to pay fees to hold special events at memorials that are meant to honor them,\u201d Rubio said. \u201cVeterans sacrificed so much to serve our country, and waiving these administrative fees is the least we can do to thank them for their service.\u201d\n\nVeterans\u2019 groups and Gold Star Families visit national war memorials arranged through various veterans\u2019 organizations throughout the year. To obtain a permit for their visit, these veterans\u2019 groups must often pay burdensome administrative fees and other processing costs related to visiting memorials.\n\nThe Free Veterans from Fees Act passed the Natural Resources Committee with unanimous consent and passed the U.S. House of Representatives during both the 115th and the 116th Congress. This legislation received bipartisan support and was endorsed by American Veterans (AMVETS), a veteran organization that represents 250,000 members nationwide.\n\nThe full text of the legislation can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-bilirakis-frankel-wilson-deutch-mcgovern-introduce-legislation-award-101", "Reps. Bilirakis, Frankel, Wilson, Deutch & McGovern Introduce Legislation to Award 101-Year-Old Nuremberg Prosecutor the Congressional Gold Medal", "2021-11-18", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL012), Lois Frankel (D-FL-21), Joe Wilson (R-SC-02), Ted Deutch (D-FL-22), and Jim McGovern (D-MA-02) introduced a bipartisan bill to award Benjamin Ferencz\u2014the last living Nuremberg prosecutor\u2014 with a Congressional Gold Medal on the anniversary of the Nuremberg Trials. During WWII, Ferencz served in the U.S. Army and helped collect evidence of Nazi war crimes. After the war, he was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant of Infantry and was awarded five medals for his service. Over the course of his life, Ferencz has been a tireless advocate for the rule of law and international justice. This remarkable centenarian embodies the best of what the United States\u2014and the American people\u2014offer to the world.\n\n\"The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. Certainly Ben Ferencz, who has spent more than 50 years prosecuting war crimes and genocide, qualifies for this prestigious honor. He has spent his entire, distinguished career pursuing justice for victims of horrific, unthinkable crimes against humanity. And he has succeeded, over and over again. In one instance, he secured justice for 20 Nazi Schutzstaffel (SS) officers responsible for killing more than one million people in towns and villages across Eastern Europe. These officers never would have been brought to justice if it weren't for his efforts. Throughout history, humanity has encountered many faces of evil. Our brightest moments as an international community have been those in which we present a united front in our efforts to identify and eradicate its presence. Mr. Ferencz has been at the helm leading that important work, and I am humbled to honor him,\" said Rep. Bilirakis.\n\n\"From his military service during World War II, to his role as chief prosecutor in a trial that brought 22 Nazi officials to justice, Ben Ferencz has led a remarkable life dedicated to the pursuit of justice,\" said Rep. Frankel. \"He is a treasure to the Palm Beach County and hero to our global Jewish community, and it is an honor to be introducing a bill to award him the Congressional Gold Medal.\"\n\n\"Ben Ferencz is a true champion of human rights. Beginning with his time as an investigator in World War II and chief U.S. Army prosecutor during the Nuremberg Trials, through his long, outstanding career as an advocate of the international rule of law. Mr. Ferencz deserves our respect and appreciation. The Congressional Gold Medal would be a fitting honor and I'm grateful to co-lead this bill. Thank you for all you have done in the name of global justice,\" said Rep. Joe Wilson.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=337", "Franklin Stands with Cuban People Seeking Liberty", "2021-11-18", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Scott Franklin", "F000472", "franklin.house.gov", "franklin", "https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15) issued the following statement to express solidarity with the Cuban people in their fight for freedom:\n\n\u201cOnce again, Cuba\u2019s Communist regime showed the world that it will do whatever it takes to silence dissent and suppress the rights of the Cuban people. This summer, thousands of brave Cubans took to the streets to protest more than 60 years of human rights abuses by the Castro regime. After a brutal crackdown, these brave souls again attempted to take to the streets on November 15th to demand their freedom. Sadly, the regime decided to stop these efforts ahead of time by pre-emptively targeting leaders and organizers of the protest movement. As freedom-loving Americans, we cannot stand idly by as the Communist regime continues to deprive our Cuban friends of their God-given liberties. In response to the regime\u2019s actions, I co-sponsored the FORCE act, which prevents the Castro dictatorship from being removed from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list until they meet certain conditions regarding human rights. I join my Florida colleague Rep. Maria Elvira-Salazar in calling for the Biden Administration to work with technology companies to provide internet access to Cubans so that they can tell the world about their struggle for freedom. I stand in solidarity with the Cuban people who are bravely fighting against tyranny and oppression. The time for freedom and democracy is now.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/five-bilirakis-bills-move-forward", "Five Bilirakis Bills Move Forward", "2021-11-17", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. Earlier today, five Bilirakis-authored bills were reported favorably out of the Energy and Commerce Committee. These bills now head to the House Floor for final passage. \"With so much dysfunction taking place in Washington lately, it is refreshing to see commonsense bipartisan solutions moving forward,\" said Congressman Bilirakis. \"These bills will make a positive impact on the lives of millions of Americans and I urge my colleagues to join me in pushing them across the finish line.\"\n\nThe Integrity, Notification, and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces for Consumers (INFORM Consumers) Act by Bilirakis and Schakowsky combats the online sale of stolen, counterfeit, and dangerous consumer products by directing online platforms that allow for third-party sellers of consumer products to verify the identity of high-volume third-party sellers, which will prevent organized retail crime. The bill will also ensure that consumers can verify basic identification and contact information for high-volume third-party sellers of consumer products on online marketplaces. \"This pro-consumer legislation enacts uniform, nationwide rules to promote safety, increase transparency, and provide greater accountability for online sales. It will provide a layer of enhanced protections for consumers from stolen and counterfeit goods without adding undue burdens on small mom-and-pop businesses,\" said Congressman Bilirakis. \"This bill is a win-win for consumers and legitimate businesses in the online marketplace.\"\n\nThe second Bilirakis bill to pass out of committee today is the Restoring Brand USA Act. Brand USA\u2014which is funded by international visitors and private contributions\u2014has generated $56 billion to our economy since 2013 and has historically supported more than 45,000 jobs each year. However, the partnership has lost significant funding as a result of the drop in international visitors due to pandemic travel restrictions. The Restoring Brand USA Act will help Brand USA promote the U.S. to international visitors by directing the Treasury Department to allow this program to access critical resources, funded by foreign traveler visa fees, for the next few years. \"The travel and tourism industry was one of the hardest hit sectors during the pandemic. As we seek to restore our way of life and fully recover, we cannot overlook the work that must be done to renew this powerful engine of economic growth for communities across the nation. Brand USA has proven itself as a successful catalyst for spurring tourism to the United States. We need that catalyst now more than ever to help rebuild the industry and spur job growth. Common sense solutions like this will help boost the economy and help get us moving in the right direction. The advancement of this initiative is quite timely, given the new Department of State guidelines for travelers from the European Union and UK. We look forward to welcoming these tourists back to our country, and to the job creation it will bring,\" Bilirakis said.\n\nThe Data Mapping to Save Moms' Lives Act will use data mapping to identify areas of the country where poor maternal health rates overlap with a lack of broadband access in order to deploy telehealth services most effectively. The United States is one of the only countries in the developed world with a rising maternal mortality rate. Around 700 women die each year in pregnancy related deaths\u2014though 3 in 5 of those deaths are preventable. The problem is especially prevalent in rural communities and amongst women of color who continue to experience disproportionately high rates of maternal and infant mortality. \"We need to use every tool at our disposal to improve health outcomes for moms and babies. Including this information into our broadband mapping will help us achieve this goal and ensure these moms get the prenatal care they deserve,\" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis.\n\nThe fourth Bilirakis bill that passed today involves the issue of spectrum, the highly sought-after radio frequencies that make wireless communications possible, which has revolutionized the world's way of communicating. Congressman Gus Bilirakis has been working to bring federal laws up to speed with the technological advances of the 21st century for the past six years. Currently, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) hold shared jurisdiction over the management of spectrum policies. However, these agencies have not created a system to coordinate usage of spectrum policies since their 2003 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Finding solutions to create a consistent and efficient use of spectrum that helps to foster innovation is key to promoting America's economic growth, universal service goals, and technological leadership. In recognition of this fact, Congressman Bilirakis introduced the Spectrum Coordination Act that would require the NTIA and FCC to revisit and update their 18 year-old policies. Since the Congressman originally filed this legislation last year, the agencies have begun to improve coordination, but this bill will formalize the process and ensure its completion. \"Consumers benefit when government entities work together to modernize processes and improve efficiency. The agreement governing cooperation between NTIA and the FCC has remained unchanged for 18 years. In the world of technology, that is an eternity and spectrum usage, management, and sharing have grown and evolved,\" said Congressman Bilirakis. \"I want to solidify what has been learned under the original MOU and build upon it to benefit all federal agencies, licensees, and consumers. We have the opportunity to improve effectiveness of government systems and encourage innovation as we continue to work with stakeholders and experts in the field.\"\n\nThe Oral Health Literacy and Awareness Act is another legislative victory for Bilirakis today. This bill directs the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to develop an oral health literacy strategy to reach underserved communities. This bipartisan bill aims to curb the rise in oral disease and related illnesses by providing prevention education through a five-year oral health literacy campaign. \"Oral health is a vital component of overall wellness that is too often overlooked. As with many aspects of healthcare, prevention is key to long-term health. Lack of good oral hygiene has been proven to exacerbate chronic health conditions and contributes to costly, yet preventable, emergency care,\" said Congressman Bilirakis. \"I am proud to be a part of this initiative to raise awareness about the proactive steps that can be taken to improve oral healthcare as I believe it will improve patient outcomes.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammack-issues-statement-vote-censure-rep-paul-gosar-az-04", "Congresswoman Kat Cammack Issues Statement On Vote To Censure  Rep. Paul Gosar (AZ-04)", "2021-11-17", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Kat Cammack", "C001039", "cammack.house.gov", "cammack", "https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack issued the following statement on the resolution to censure Rep. Paul Gosar (AZ-04):\n\n\"I have and will always condemn violence and have reiterated repeatedly that it has no place in our country and our society. The vote to censure Rep. Gosar defies procedural precedent when Democrats decided to circumvent the complaint process by taking the vote directly to the Floor instead of through the House Ethics Committee,\" said Cammack. \"The Democrats made the decision to pursue removing a duly-elected member of the opposite party from serving on his House committees, which furthers the damaging the precedent they established earlier this Congress.\n\n\"Right now, we have got to be focused on the issues directly facing our country, including rising prices, extreme inflation, the border crisis, and more.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=06E9A093-6148-4713-98FC-EB2C5F8118D5", "Webster and Colleagues Introduce Resolution to Nullify Biden's Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandate", "2021-11-17", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) joined Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) and 160 colleagues to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to formally disapprove of and nullify President Joe Biden's unconstitutional vaccine mandate imposed on America's job creators and workers.\n\nThe Biden Administration recently released details on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Emergency Temporary Standard mandating vaccination requirements for employees at private businesses with more than 100 employees. The rule will affect more than 80 million Americans and impose $14,000 fines for persons who do not comply.\n\n\"I am opposed to vaccine mandates; healthcare decisions should be between an individual and their health care provider - not the result of demands by Washington politicians,\" Congressman Webster said. \"President Biden's dystopian vaccine mandate defies science and goes far beyond the role of the federal government by strong-arming employers and threatening the right of millions of Americans to earn a living. I will continue to work with my colleagues to defend the freedoms of the American people.\"\n\n\"The broad support that our Congressional Review Act resolution has garnered sends a clear message to President Biden: The American people are fed up with the mandates and government control,\" Congressman Keller said. \"Our nation faces a host of crises created by this administration, including supply chain challenges and skyrocketing costs for everyday goods and services. President Biden's illegal vaccine mandate is crippling for Main Street job creators and workers. We will continue to do everything we can to oppose this authoritarian rule.\"\n\nFull bill text can be found here. Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) also introduced a companion bill in the Senate, garnering support of all 50 Republican Senators.\n\nAdditional House co-sponsors include: Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23), Whip Steve Scalise (LA-01), Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (NY-21), and Representatives Scott Perry (PA-10), Bob Latta (OH-05), Jackie Walorski (IN-02), August Pfluger (TX-11), Chip Roy (TX-21), Dan Meuser (PA-09), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Jeff Duncan (SC-03), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Mike Gallagher(WI-08), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Jason Smith(MO-08), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Tom McClintock (CA-04), Mike Bost (IL-12), Garret Graves (LA-06), David Rouzer (NC-07), Jay Obernolte (CA-08), Mike Garcia (CA-25), John Rutherford (FL-04), Kat Cammack (FL-03), Rick Crawford (AR-01), Mike Johnson (LA-04), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Tom Tiffany (WI-07), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), French Hill (AR-02), Barry Moore (AL-02), Lauren Boebert (CO-03), Pete Sessions (TX-17), Kevin Hern (OK-01), Michael Guest (MS-03), Troy Balderson (OH-12), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Greg Steube (FL-17), Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), Mike Simpson (ID-02), Steve Womack (AR-03), Tom Emmer (MN-06), Alex Mooney (WV-02), Blake Moore (UT-01), Trey Hollingsworth (IN-09), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Tom Cole (OK-04), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Frank Lucas (OK-03), Jake LaTurner (KS-02), Greg Pence (IN-06), Ted Budd (NC-13), Bill Huizenga (MI-02), Vicky Hartzler (MO-04), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Roger Williams (TX-25), Bruce Westerman (AR-04), Gary Palmer (AL-06), Steve Chabot (OH-1), David McKinley (WV-01), Tracey Mann (KS-01), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Dan Bishop (NC-09), John Joyce (PA-13), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Darrell Issa (CA-50), Earl \"Buddy\" Carter (GA-01), Yvette Herrell (NM-02), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Mike Burgess (TX-26), Matt Rosendale (MT-AL), Sam Graves (MO-06), Brian Babin (TX-36), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Mark Amodei (NV-02), Jim Hagedorn (MN-01), John Moolenaar (MI-04), Claudia Tenney (NY-22), Brian Mast (FL-18), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Jody Hice (GA-10), Patrick McHenry (NC-10), Ben Cline (VA-06), Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Dusty Johnson (SD-AL), Chris Jacobs (NY-27), Vern Buchanan (FL-16), Lee Zeldin (NY-01), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Scott Franklin (FL-15), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Virginia Foxx (NC-05), Joe Wilson (SC-02), GT Thompson (PA-15), Tim Walberg (MI-07), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Rick Allen (GA-12), Jim Banks (IN-03), James Comer (KY-01), Russ Fulcher (ID-01), Greg Murphy (NC-03), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-02), Burgess Owens (UT-04), Bob Good (VA-05), Lisa McClain (MI-10), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Mary Miller (IL-15), Victoria Spartz (IN-05), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Madison Cawthorn (NC-11), Michelle Steel (CA-48), Julia Letlow (LA-05), Neal Dunn (FL-02), Ron Estes (KS-04), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Drew Ferguson (GA-03), Don Bacon (NE-02), Jerry Carl (AL-01), William Timmons (SC-04), Bryan Steil (WI-01), Matt Gaetz (FL-01), Kelly Armstrong (ND-AL), Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03), Larry Buschon (IN-08), Andy Barr (KY-06), Van Taylor (TX-03), Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Mo Brooks (AL-05), Anthony Gonzalez (OH-16), Chris Smith (NJ-04), Andy Harris (MD-01), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Debbie Lesko (AZ-08), Thomas Massie (KY-04), Richard Hudson (NC-08), Ashley Hinson (IA-01), John Rose (TN-06), Devin Nunes (CA-22), Peter Meijer (MI-03), Bill Posey (FL-08), Mike Rogers (AL-03), Nancy Mace (SC-01), Rob Wittman (VA-01), Mike Turner (OH-10), Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Kay Granger (TX-12), Adam Kinzinger (IL-16), David Kustoff (TN-08), Andrew Clyde (GA-09), Randy Weber (TX-14), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), Liz Cheney (WY-AL), Jim Baird (IN-04), Kevin Brady (TX-08), David Schweikert (AZ-06), Carol Miller (WV-03), and Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-bill-improve-maternal-health-care-veterans-headed-president", "Bilirakis Bill to Improve Maternal Health Care for Veterans Headed to the President", "2021-11-16", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Representatives Gus Bilirakis (FL-R) and Lauren Underwood(IL-D)'s bipartisan legislation to improve maternal health care for Veterans passed the House today, after already clearing the Senate last month with bipartisan support. The Senate version of the legislation is led by Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME). The Protecting Moms Who Served Act seeks to eliminate maternal mortality, morbidity, and disparities among Veterans.\n\n\"These critical investments in the maternal healthcare all female Veterans receive will help save lives and lead to healthier outcomes for moms and babies,\" said Representative Bilirakis. \"Our nation's heroes deserve the best possible care, and our legislation gets us one step closer to achieving that goal.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-condemns-biden-border-crisis-urges-immediate-action", "Bilirakis Condemns Biden Border Crisis, Urges Immediate Action", "2021-11-16", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC: Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis took to the House Floor to condemn the Biden Border Crisis and to urge his colleagues to abandon the radical policies that are fueling the historic onslaught of illegal border crossings. Since President Biden took office, there have been over 1.4 million illegal border crossings. These record-high apprehensions keep increasing, with no end in sight. The Biden Administration has not responded to requests for detailed information about how it plans to stop the newest expected surge with a caravan of migrants currently headed through Mexico to the U.S. southern border.\n\n\"The problem is actually much worse than these already staggering numbers suggest,\" warned Congressman Bilirakis. \"When I spoke with Border Patrol Agents during my recent visit to the southern border, they confirmed that they are only able to apprehend a fraction of the people, drugs, and weapons illegally entering the country as they are simply overwhelmed by the dramatic increases. These brave public servants noted the extreme difficulties associated with trying to keep our country secure without a physical barrier along portions of the border.\n\nOut of the 1.4 million people who have been apprehended while trying to illegally gain access to the country, more than 283,000 have been released into the United States. Approximately 95,000 illegal immigrants were released with a \"Notice to Report.\" Based upon previous patterns of behavior, it is reasonable to assume that many of these individuals will fail to comply with their order to report back later and will simply disappear within the country. This represents a significant security risk.\n\nInstead of addressing what has become a humanitarian, health and national security problem, the Biden Administration and Congressional Democrats keep announcing plans that will only exacerbate the problem, Bilirakis cautioned. For example, the Administration has discussed paying illegal immigrants settlement payments of up to $450,000. These individuals broke the law by entering the country. If they are compensated for doing so, it will encourage even more people to break the law.\n\n\"I am also extremely concerned that while it does not contain one dollar to add additional Border Security Agents, the proposed tax and spending bill currently being pushed through the House contains includes amnesty for up to 10 million illegal immigrants and $100 billion in tax-payer funded benefits for them,\" Bilirakis added.\"These irresponsible proposals and dangerous open border policies will continue to fuel the crisis and encourage more illegal activity at the border. We must secure our borders and ensure that the rule of law applies to everyone.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gus-bilirakis-receives-national-award", "Congressman Gus Bilirakis Receives National Award", "2021-11-16", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014Congressman Gus Bilirakis has accepted The Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) American PATRIOT Award for standing up against harmful policies currently being advanced in Washington, D.C. and for consistently promoting the American values of faith, family, and freedom. AMAC CEO Rebecca Weber, surrounded by AMAC staff and supporters, welcomed Members of Congress to the awards event and personally presented Congressman Bilirakis with a custom AMAC American PATRIOT Award.\n\nDuring the award ceremony, AMAC Action President Bob Carlstrom pointed out the increasingly radical policies of current Congressional leadership. He then said: \"Congressman Gus Bilirakis has consistently defended the free enterprise system and the American values of faith, family, and freedom while pushing back against government overreach. As this administration doubles down on legislation that will dramatically expand that welfare state and hike taxes on the middle class, Congressman Gus Bilirakis continues to lock arms with AMAC and our 2.3 million members nationwide against these destructive ideas.\"\n\n\"I am honored to receive the American Patriot Award from AMAC,\" said Congressman Bilirakis. \"AMAC is an advocacy organization committed to protecting American values, freedoms, equality of opportunity, sanctity of life, and the rule of law. AMAC has proven itself to be a strong champion for American seniors and I will continue to stand alongside its members as we fight to protect and preserve our way of life for future generations.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=882E9D18-82F6-422D-BEFF-73AE9DF4A9C6", "AMAC Presents Webster with American PATRIOT Award", "2021-11-16", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 The Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) recently presented the American PATRIOT Award to Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, for standing up against harmful policies currently being advanced in Washington, D.C. and consistently promoting the American values of faith, family, and freedom.\n\n\"Congressman Dan Webster has consistently defended the free enterprise system and the American values of faith, family, and freedom while pushing back against government overreach,\" said AMAC Action President Bob Carlstrom. \"As this administration doubles down on legislation that will dramatically expand that welfare state and hike taxes on the middle class, Congressman Dan Webster continues to lock arms with AMAC and our 2.3 million members nationwide against these destructive ideas.\"\n\n\"I serve the oldest district, per-capita, in the nation and many AMAC members call my district home,\" said Rep. Webster. \"As a senior myself, I know what many of my constituents face on a day-to-day basis as they see costs of basic goods rising, American values being disrespected, and our freedoms being challenged. I will keep fighting for our seniors and to restore fiscal responsibility, while pushing forward policies that empower families and small businesses and uphold American values and ideals. AMAC is a strong voice for safeguarding seniors and I am honored to receive this award.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-responds-report-confirming-biden-administrations-overreach", "Bilirakis Responds to Report Confirming Biden Administration\u2019s Overreach", "2021-11-15", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC: Earlier today, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) confirmed that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) does not have legal authority to permanently extend enhanced Medicaid funding in Puerto Rico, as the Biden Administration has recently asserted. In its legal opinion, the GAO notes \"HHS's FY 2022 allotment of $2,943,000,000 for Puerto Rico was not authorized,\" and \"the plain meaning of the language of the statute is clear.\" In response to this opinion, Congressman Gus Bilirakis, who has spearheaded bipartisan legislation on this important topic, released the statement below.\n\n\"We have an obligation to ensure a continued safety net for our most vulnerable patient populations while putting safeguards in place to strengthen accountability for the wise use of taxpayer dollars. We must also incentivize best practices in the Medicaid program. Prior to the Biden Administration incorrectly asserting that it did not need specific statutory authority to extend enhanced funding, Congressman Soto and I worked together in good faith to craft language that achieved these goals. Our bill ensured continued funding access to healthcare for America's seniors, children, and those with disabilities in Puerto Rico and U.S. territories while strengthening accountability and program integrity to prevent fraud and abuse. Now that an independent entity has corroborated that the Biden Administration overstepped its authority, Democrats in Congress need to insist that we use the proper legislative procedure. We must advance our bipartisan agreement to avoid further confusion and uncertainty,\" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-announces-2021-congressional-fire-and-rescueems-award-winners", "Buchanan Announces 2021 Congressional Fire and Rescue/EMS Award Winners", "2021-11-15", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Vern Buchanan", "B001260", "buchanan.house.gov", "buchanan", "https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "BRADENTON, Fla. \u2013 Congressman Vern Buchanan today announced the winners of the 16th Congressional District Fire and Rescue and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Awards. Buchanan established the awards to give special recognition to fire and rescue and EMS personnel who have provided distinguished service to his constituents back in 2010.\n\n\u201cAs first responders, fire departments and emergency medical service teams are summoned on short notice to serve their communities,\u201d said Buchanan. \u201cOftentimes, they arrive at scenes of great adversity and trauma, to which they reliably bring strength and composure. These brave men and women spend hundreds of hours in training so that they are prepared when they get `the call.\u2019 I believe these awards are a fitting tribute to our first responders and a reminder of the important role they play in our communities.\u201d\n\nThis year\u2019s award recipients were selected by an independent committee comprised of a cross section of current and retired fire and rescue personnel living in the district.\n\nBuchanan presented awards to the following outstanding fire and rescue and EMS personnel:\n\nDedication and Professionalism Award:\n\nHillsborough County Fire and Rescue Lieutenant Kimberlee Rogers and Deputy Chief Jason Dougherty\n\nManatee Search Nicholas Reis\n\nManatee County EMS Social Worker Sonia Shuhart\n\nCareer Service Award:\n\nParrish Fire District Division Chief Michael Williamson\n\nPreservation of Life Award\n\nHillsborough County Fire and Rescue Captain John Shirah and Driver Engineer Peter Dziubinski\n\nSarasota County Fire Department Lieutenant Randy Allen and Fire Medics Miriam Troyer, Andrew Moler and Michael Alberti\n\nAssociate Service Award:\n\nHillsborough County Sheriff\u2019s Office Lieutenant Terri Adams; Corporals William Barnes and Carlos Brito; Deputies Keaton Bruce and Andrew Fleming; and Civilians Trexley and Bradley Cleophat\n\nUnit Citation:\n\nHillsborough County Fire and Rescue\n\nChief Morris Lopez; Captains Derek Butler, Michael Bugg, Erik Sawyer, and Brian Visnovec; Acting Captains Charles Bridges and Adam Brown; Firefighters Travis Poirier and Edward Kofler; Fire Medics Colin Tracey, Gilad Maimoni, Brandon Gadberry, Adam Schwer, Violet Anderson, Juanita Benjamin, Brian Johnson, and Ryan VanBuskirk; Lieutenants Joseph Blackwelder and Joshua Veeck; Driver Engineers Ralph Mascaro, Derek Wendt, Ayron Burden, Jerome Mancillas, Jeffrey Hartzner, Patrick Geiger; and Acting Driver Engineers Marc Dieth, Joshua Thompson, and Ryan Fritz; and Manatee Search and Rescue Deputy Chief John Elwood and K9 Karma, and Captain Michael Dvorak and K9 Max", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-mario-diaz-balart-honors-fl-25-veterans", "Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart Honors FL-25 Veterans", "2021-11-12", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Mario Diaz-Balart", "D000600", "mariodiazbalart.house.gov", "mariodiazbalart", "https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "Miami, FL \u2013 This week, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) recognized a group of local veterans with the Congressional Veteran Commendation.\n\nThe Congressional Veteran Commendation is a nominations-based program designed to recognize the wartime sacrifices and peacetime community involvement of veterans residing in Florida's 25th Congressional District. The honorees listed below will be interviewed, and their wartime collections will be added to the Veterans History Project, sponsored by the Library of Congress.\n\nColonel William G. Perez\u2013 United States Marine Corps\n\nMiami Lakes, FL\n\nLieutenant Colonel Duilia Mora Turner\u2013 United States Air Force\n\nDoral, FL\n\nLieutenant Colonel Christopher Barry Walters\u2013 United States Marine Corps\n\nNaples, FL\n\nCaptain Robert Francis Merkel\u2013 United States Marine Corps\n\nHialeah, FL\n\nSergeant First Class Heriberto Alvarado Hartnack\u2013 United States Army\n\nNaples, FL\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-leads-letter-asking-president-biden-support-cuban-people", "Diaz-Balart Leads Letter Asking President Biden to Support the Cuban People", "2021-11-12", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Mario Diaz-Balart", "D000600", "mariodiazbalart.house.gov", "mariodiazbalart", "https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) led a letter to President Biden, urging that he take decisive and expeditious action to support the Cuban people in their demands for freedom in the wake of the regime's increasing repression leading up to the planned protests on November 15.\n\n\"With the Cuban regime\u2019s increasing repression and the planned November 15 protests, I sent a letter to President Biden urging that he take decisive and expeditious action, including through democracy programming, broadcasting, global diplomacy, internet access, and sanctions, to support the longsuffering Cuban people in their pleas for freedom.\"\n\nCongressman Mario Diaz-Balart was joined by Reps. Maria Elvira Salazar, Carlos A. Gimenez, Nicole Malliotakis, Byron Donalds, Victoria Spartz, and Jenniffer Gonz\u00e1lez-Col\u00f3n.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-lidera-carta-pidiendo-al-presidente-biden-que-apoye-al", "D\u00edaz-Balart lidera carta pidiendo al presidente Biden que apoye al pueblo Cubano", "2021-11-12", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Mario Diaz-Balart", "D000600", "mariodiazbalart.house.gov", "mariodiazbalart", "https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC - Hoy, el congresista Mario D\u00edaz-Balart (FL-25) dirigi\u00f3 una carta al presidente Biden, instando a que tome medidas decisivas y r\u00e1pidas para apoyar al pueblo cubano en sus demandas por libertad a ra\u00edz de la creciente represi\u00f3n del r\u00e9gimen ante las protestas previstas para el 15 de noviembre.\n\n\"Con la creciente represi\u00f3n del r\u00e9gimen en Cuba y las protestas planeadas para el 15 de noviembre, envi\u00e9 una carta al presidente Biden instando a que tomara medidas decisivas y r\u00e1pidas, incluso a trav\u00e9s de la programaci\u00f3n democr\u00e1tica, la radiodifusi\u00f3n, la diplomacia global, el acceso a Internet y sanciones, para apoyar al sufrido pueblo cubano en sus s\u00faplicas por libertad\".\n\nJunto al congresista Mario D\u00edaz-Balart firmaron la carta los Representantes Maria Elvira Salazar, Carlos A. Gimenez, Nicole Malliotakis, Byron Donalds, Victoria Spartz, and Jenniffer Gonz\u00e1lez-Col\u00f3n.\n\nEl texto de la carta en ingl\u00e9s est\u00e1 aqu\u00ed.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-cammack-announces-veteran-year-award-seeks-nominations-years", "Congresswoman Cammack Announces \"Veteran Of The Year Award,\" Seeks Nominations For This Year's Recipient", "2021-11-11", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Kat Cammack", "C001039", "cammack.house.gov", "cammack", "https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "GAINESVILLE, FL \u2013 Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack announced the open nomination process for Florida's Third Congressional District's Veteran of the Year Award. The award is an opportunity for local veterans to be honored for their service and contributions to North Central Florida.\n\n\"The Veteran of the Year Award recognizes the work of veterans who have served our country and continue to serve the community in Florida's Third Congressional District. Our veteran community is incredibly strong and we're looking forward to honoring one deserving hero for their contributions,\" said Rep. Cammack. \"We're asking for the community's help in finding and nominating these veterans worthy of our gratitude and recognition.\"\n\nNominations can be submitted online here and will be accepted until November 30, 2021.\n\nCriteria For Honorees:\n\nNominated veterans must be a veteran of one of the five Armed Forces of the U.S. including Reserve or National Guard, or United States Merchant Marines.\n\nNominated veterans must live within the Third Congressional District, which encompasses Alachua County, Bradford County, Clay County, Putnam County, Union County, and parts of Marion County.\n\nVeterans must be able to supply a DD-214.\n\nVeteran Of The Year Honoree Will Be Selected Based On:\n\nService: Demonstrate a commitment to service in the community through advocacy, community projects, an act of heroism, and/or other actions.\n\nExcellence: Provide an example of how this veteran exudes a spirit of excellence.\n\nDedication: Demonstrate dedication to supporting fellow veterans and building bridges between veterans and the North Central Florida community.\n\nNominees will be evaluated by a panel with the winner announced in early December.\n\nWith questions, please contact the Gainesville office at 352-505-0838 or email Adeline Sandridge.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-commemorates-20th-anniversary-911-attacks", "Diaz-Balart Commemorates the 20th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks", "2021-11-11", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Mario Diaz-Balart", "D000600", "mariodiazbalart.house.gov", "mariodiazbalart", "https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement on the 20th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks.\n\n\"Twenty years after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, we honor the memories of those who perished as a result of an evil plan hatched thousands of miles from our shores. We also remember the heroism of so many Americans on that day and the days after. First responders rushed into the twin towers to save those who were trapped, and brave passengers on Flight 93 rushed the cockpit and thwarted what would have been an even more disastrous attack. In the days and weeks that followed, hundreds combed through the smoking debris to find victims, and many who survived continue to suffer emotional trauma and severe health consequences as a result. Americans came together in response to that horror, and we vowed to combat terrorism, prevent another attack, and deliver those terrorists to the gates of hell.\n\n\"The United States did not seek the war on terror; it sought us. Yet America was blessed to have a president with the moral clarity and unshakeable resolve to pursue the terrorists and those who harbored them and to take whatever measures were necessary to keep Americans safe. With a broad coalition of military forces, we and our allies spent the next twenty years fulfilling that promise.\n\n\"Today, we remember the heroism, goodness, and resilience of Americans in the face of evil. We also honor the soldiers and Afghan allies who gave it all to successfully defeat terrorists, including the Taliban, and whose mission and legacy were betrayed by an Administration that handed back Afghanistan to the Taliban.\n\n\"We must never forget the lessons learned of that horrific attack, which is that we must stand with our friends, remain resolute in our opposition to terrorism, and keep Americans safe.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-recognizes-north-port-artist-and-veteran-sgt-phillip-moore-as-november-fl-17-mvp/", "Steube Recognizes North Port Artist and Veteran Sgt Phillip Moore as November FL-17 MVP", "2021-11-11", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "W. Gregory Steube", "S001214", "steube.house.gov", "steube", "https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Steube Recognizes North Port Artist and Veteran Sgt Phillip Moore as November FL-17 MVP\n\nNORTH PORT, FLA.\u2014 U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today recognized local North Port artist and Army Veteran, Sgt Phillip Moore, as the November FL-17 MVP.\n\n\u201cSgt Moore is a shining example of dedication, patriotism, and service and represents the best that our district has to offer,\u201d Steube said. \u201cHe has used his unique talent to not only help manage his own PTSD, but to help his community by showing his art as a form of rehabilitation for fellow veterans.\u201d\n\nSgt Moore served 8 years in the 1st Cavalry Division with the United States Army and later did 3 combat deployments in Iraq from 2004-2010 before leaving the military. He moved to North Port in 2014, and is now a prized local artist, having created the \u201cArt of War,\u201d an 18-piece collection that is on display at the North Port Art Center. Sgt Moore\u2019s art is influenced by his colorblindness. His vision physically shakes when looking at certain colors next to each other, a phenomenon called \u201cColor Vibration.\u201d\n\nProceeds from paintings sold from his \u201cThe Art of War\u201d collection will go to the Sgt Phillip S. Moore Veteran\u2019s Art Scholarship, which will offer veterans the opportunity to attend classes at the North Port Art Center free of charge.\n\nSteube presented Sgt Moore with a certificate and flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in his honor.\n\nEach month, Steube and his team recognize an MVP from the 17th Congressional District who has made outstanding and unique contributions to the community. The purpose of this award is to recognize the unsung heroes across the District as they display extraordinary dedication to making a difference. MVPs are presented with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to thank them for their work and are publicly recognized in Steube\u2019s weekly newsletter.\n\nTo submit deserving nominees, constituents are encouraged to visit Steube.House.Gov/FL17MVP.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-calls-action-his-bill-combat-veteran-suicides", "Buchanan Calls for Action on His Bill to Combat Veteran Suicides", "2021-11-10", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Vern Buchanan", "B001260", "buchanan.house.gov", "buchanan", "https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Ahead of Veterans Day, Congressman Vern Buchanan today sent a letter to the leaders of the House Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee urging consideration of his bipartisan legislation to investigate the link between addictive opioids and the alarmingly high rate of suicides among veterans.\n\nBuchanan\u2019s Veteran Overmedication and Suicide Prevention Act (H.R. 67) would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to review the deaths of all veterans it treated who died by suicide or from a drug overdose in the last five years. The new data generated by the bill will be used to better treat veterans suffering from both mental and physical injuries.\n\n\u201cThe high rate of suicide and drug overdose deaths among veterans is unacceptable,\" Buchanan said. \u201cThis legislation is critical to learning if prescription drugs, particularly opioid painkillers, are a contributing factor in veteran suicides. I encourage my colleagues on the House Veterans\u2019 Affairs Committee to pass this bill to further address these untimely deaths.\u201d\n\nAccording to the VA, at least 60,000 veterans died by suicide between 2008 and 2017 \u2013 nearly 17 per day. Veteran suicides account for nearly 15 percent of all suicides in the United States.\n\nJoining Buchanan on the letter was Congressman Gerald Connolly, D-VA, the bill\u2019s main Democratic co-sponsor. \u201cIt is clear we must do more to end this crisis and help reduce this needless and preventable loss of life,\u201d said Buchanan and Connolly.\n\nThis legislation is endorsed by three Veterans Service Organizations: the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) and AMVETS.\n\n\u201cUnderstanding the impact of overmedication and veteran suicide begins with data,\u201d said a representative for the VFW. \u201cThis legislation will help illuminate the seriousness and scope of this causation. Reducing the number of service members and veterans who die by suicide has been a priority for the VFW and will remain so until it is no longer needed. We must do whatever it takes to save the almost 20 service members and veterans who die by suicide every day.\u201d\n\nEarlier this year, a Buchanan measure passed the House to provide $2 million to the VA to study the link between veteran suicides and highly addictive opioids.\n\nBuchanan has a strong record of fighting for veterans and military families. He is a past recipient of the VFW Legislative Achievement Award. Last Congress, a Buchanan measure to reduce military training accidents following the death of Bradenton soldier Nicolas Panipinto was enacted into law. In 2015, Buchanan\u2019s bill allowing all veterans in America to receive an official identification card, the Veterans ID Card Act was signed into law. Buchanan also introduced an amendment enacted in 2007 to study the feasibility of a standard soldier-patient tracking system.\n\nYou can read the letter here or below.\n\nDear Chairman Takano and Ranking Member Bost,\n\nWe write today as the lead sponsors of H.R. 67, the Veteran Overmedication and Suicide Prevention Act, to request the House Committee on Veterans\u2019 Affairs take action on our bipartisan bill to study the link between addictive opioids and the alarmingly high rate of suicide among veterans.\n\nAs you know, nearly 17 veterans die by suicide each day, a rate nearly twice as high as civilians. Due in part to this troubling statistic, we believe this bill is not only commonsense, but entirely necessary to help combat this tragic epidemic\n\nOur legislation, endorsed by three of the nation\u2019s major veterans service organizations, would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to review the deaths of all veterans it treated who died by suicide or from a drug overdose in the last five years. This important new information will be used to better treat veterans suffering from both mental and physical injuries and is critical to learning if prescription drugs, particularly opioid painkillers, are a contributing factor in suicide-related veteran deaths.\n\nThe VFW, which endorsed our legislation, stated that \u201c[u]nderstanding the impact of overmedication and veteran suicide begins with data. This legislation will help illuminate the seriousness and scope of this causation. Reducing the number of service members and veterans who die by suicide has been a priority for the VFW and will remain so until it is no longer needed. We must do whatever it takes to save the almost 20 service members and veterans who die by suicide every day.\u201d\n\nAccording to a September 2019 VA report:\n\nAt least 60,000 veterans died by suicide between 2008 and 2017.\n\nVeteran suicides account for about 15 percent of all suicides in the United States, with a veteran committing suicide every 72 minutes.\n\nThe VA has a history of freely prescribing opioid pain medication to veterans, reaching its highest level in 2012 with more than 438,000 long-term opioid patients.\n\nUnfortunately, despite the VA taking steps to reduce the number of opioid prescriptions it dispenses by 70 percent between 2012 and 2020, veterans are still committing suicide at a startling rate.\n\nGiven the recent call by seven former VA secretaries to create a National Warrior Call Day to raise awareness about military and veteran suicides, and the fact that more than 93,000 Americans died from an overdose last year, it is clear we must do more to end this crisis and help reduce this needless and preventable loss of life.\n\nFurthermore, earlier this year, the U.S. House passed legislation that included our bipartisan amendment to fund the review called for in our bill and to provide a report to Congress. Thank you for your service and commitment to our nation\u2019s many veterans and I look forward to your prompt reply to this critically important issue.\n\nSincerely,\n\nVern Buchanan\n\nMember of Congress\n\nGerald E. Connolly", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-pens-op-ed-in-sarasota-herald-tribune-criticizing-fauci-s-animal-abuse/", "Steube Pens Op-Ed in Sarasota Herald-Tribune Criticizing Fauci\u2019s Animal Abuse", "2021-11-09", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "W. Gregory Steube", "S001214", "steube.house.gov", "steube", "https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Steube Pens Op-Ed in Sarasota Herald-Tribune Criticizing Fauci\u2019s Animal Abuse\n\nSARASOTA, FLA.\u2013 U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) penned an op-ed in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune calling out Dr. Anthony Fauci for authorizing cruel and unethical medical experimentation on animals.\n\n\u201cLong before Fauci was obsessed with caging Americans in their homes in the name of \u2018science,\u2019 he directed the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to cage thousands of beagles in laboratories for cruel and unethical medical experimentation.\u201d Steube wrote.\n\nIn documents obtained by the White Coat Waste Project, it was revealed that Fauci\u2019s division at the NIH ordered cruel and unnecessary drug toxicity tests on dogs, many of which were beagles and other animals that cost taxpayers over $1.68 million.\n\n\u201cAs the proud owner of four rescue dogs, I am appalled at the actions taken by our government under the direction of Dr. Fauci. Between his mishandling of COVID-19 and unconscionably cruel animal experiments, this man must be held accountable and resign immediately.\u201d Steube continued.\n\nThe full op-ed can be found here or below.\n\nOPINION: Fauci must be held accountable for cruel animal research\n\nRep. Greg Steube\n\n\u201cLong before Anthony Fauci, the chief medical adviser to the president, was obsessed with caging Americans in their homes \u2013 in the name of \u2018science\u2019 \u2013 he directed the National Institutes of Health to cage thousands of beagles in laboratories for cruel and unethical medical experimentation.\n\nAccording to the Beagle Freedom Project, beagles are often selected as the breed of choice for animal testing because they are \u2018docile, people-pleasing and very forgiving. They are easy to \u2018maintain\u2019 in cages and do not have a tendency to bite when being hurt.\u2019\n\nIn a report from the United States Department of Agriculture for fiscal year 2019, 797,546 animals were used in laboratory research in the United States. The government is only required to publicly report the treatment of animals listed in the Animal Welfare Act of 1996.\n\nMost species of mice, rats and fish are not required to be included in annual reports of animal testing. Of the animals reported in 2019, over 58,000 of those were dogs.\n\nIn documents obtained by the White Coat Waste Project, it was revealed that Fauci\u2019s division at the National Institutes of Health ordered cruel and unnecessary drug toxicity tests on dogs and other animals that cost American taxpayers more than $1.68 million.\n\nThese taxpayer dollars funded barbaric trials that involved injecting dozens of beagles with experimental drugs before murdering and dissecting them. To make matters worse, these beagles were puppies between the ages of six to eight months.\n\nEven more heinous, reports were also uncovered revealing that Fauci authorized the vocal cords of the beagles to be cut so that they could not cry while being tortured. It seems that Fauci has a pattern of silencing those who protest his actions since he also silenced millions of Americans who opposed his draconian COVID-19 restrictions. At least Fauci couldn\u2019t slash our vocal cords to shut us up.\n\nUnfortunately, this is not the first time that Fauci\u2019s agencies have supported cruel experiments. In 2016 Fauci authorized experiments where infectious sand flies were strapped to beagles to feed on them for 22 months before the beagles were killed.\n\nDuring my time in the Florida Legislature, I championed numerous pieces of legislation protecting animals from cruelty and abuse, but never did I think it would be to protect animals from our country\u2019s highest paid government official. But it\u2019s true: taxpayers pay Fauci\u2019s $400,000-plus annual salary to oversee the unethical and inhumane torture of animals in our country and abroad:\n\nAfter learning about the sand flies experiments, I joined many of my colleagues in sending a letter to Fauci demanding an explanation on reports that he authorized funding for similar tests to be conducted on dogs at the University of Georgia.\n\nAs we learned following the aftermath of COVID-19, the National Institutes of Health and National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases support foreign animal research projects abroad, such as the questionable experiments at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.\n\nI suppose Fauci\u2019s thirst for animal abuse surpasses our borders: harrowing images have been uncovered from National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases files that show drugged beagles \u2013 their heads in cages \u2013 getting eaten by flies in Tunisia.\n\nMy conservative congressional colleagues and I sent a letter to Francis Collins, the director of the National Institutes of Health, inquiring about its oversight on other foreign animal projects \u2013 and expressing concerns about the national security and human health risks of taxpayer-funded animal research conducted abroad.\n\nAs the proud owner of four rescue dogs, I am appalled by the actions taken by our government under the direction of Dr. Fauci. Between his mishandling of COVID-19 and the unconscionably cruel animal experiments, this man must be held accountable \u2013 and he must resign immediately.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://gimenez.house.gov/2021/11/gimenez-scott-introduce-supply-chain-emergency-response-act", "Gimenez, Scott, Introduce the Supply Chain Emergency Response Act", "2021-11-08", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Carlos A. Gimenez", "G000593", "gimenez.house.gov", "gimenez", "https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) introduced this week The Supply Chain Emergency Response Act. The bill redirects $125 million of unspent, unobligated CARES Act funds to facilitate cargo vessels currently on hold along the West Coast to cross the Panama Canal and dock in the East. The legislation also allows state governors to use unspent, unobligated CARES Act funds to help offset port fees and other related state-level expenses.\n\nAfter the bill\u2019s introduction, Gimenez said:\n\n\u201cIt is a grave failure of the Biden Administration that our store shelves are empty, and that Americans cannot find basic goods and products. From the beginning of this supply chain dilemma, Florida\u2019s ports have clamored for more cargo vessels to reroute from their original port call to California and come to the East. Like Florida, several states in the Gulf and the eastern seaboard have both the port capacity and the logistical capabilities to ensure goods reach our shelves in a timely and efficient manner.\n\nGetting these cargo vessels to Florida and other eastern states also alleviates the shipping container shortage, which has made it difficult for American producers \u2013 from our farmers and ranchers to our domestic manufacturers \u2013 to ship their goods and products abroad.\n\nI thank Senator Rick Scott for introducing this bill in the Senate and joining this fight with me to help fix this supply chain issue with a commonsense approach. Senator Scott has always stood on the side of Florida\u2019s workers. I also want to thank Governor Ron DeSantis for his steadfast leadership at the state-level in working to bring more cargo vessels to Florida\u2019s ports \u2013 a move that will result in sizable economic activity for places such as PortMiami.\u201d\n\nFlorida Senator Rick Scott will be introducing the bill in the Senate, saying:\n\n\u201cAs empty shelves grow more and more common, prices are surging higher and small businesses can\u2019t access the goods they need to serve their customers. Joe Biden\u2019s supply chain and inflation crises are devastating for so many Americans, but it\u2019s our poorest families, those on low and fixed incomes like mine growing up, that are hurt the most. Yet, Biden does nothing to help.\n\nUnlike the Biden Administration, I\u2019m not going to just sit around and play TV commentator. Today, I am proud to partner with my friend and colleague Congressman Gimenez in introducing the Supply Chain Emergency Response Act to get products flowing to American families and businesses again. We need to make Washington work for Florida families. Fortunately, Florida\u2019s ports are ready and able to help with this crisis and I hope all of my colleagues work with us to quickly pass this good and urgently needed bill.\u201d\n\nHeritage Action of America, one of the leading conservative voices in the country, has supported the legislation. Garrett Bess, Vice President of Heritage Action, said:\n\n\\\"Since taking office, President Biden and the Democratic party have continued to implement harmful policies that have ultimately led to a supply chain crisis. Further aggravating the problem is that, rather than seeking to address issues in the supply chain, Democrats elected to double down on the failed policies that got us into this predicament to begin with. Fortunately, Congressman Carlos Gimenez and Senator Rick Scott have grown tired of non-solutions and teamed up to introduce legislation that would utilize unspent COVID funds to alleviate some of the delays in the supply chain.\\\"\n\nThe Supply Chain Emergency Response Act would:\n\nRedirect $125 million of unspent, unobligated funding from the CARES Act to help facilitate the move of cargo vessels currently holding along the West Coast across the Panama Canal and dock in the East.\n\nAllow state governors to use unspent, unobligated CARES Act funding to help offset port fees and other related state-level expenses", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-introduces-legislation-to-combat-rising-food-prices-for-american-families/", "Steube Introduces Legislation to Combat Rising Food Prices for American Families", "2021-11-07", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "W. Gregory Steube", "S001214", "steube.house.gov", "steube", "https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Steube Introduces Legislation to Combat Rising Food Prices for American Families\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) introduced the Keep Food Local & Affordable Act to combat the recent rise in food prices experienced across the country due to historic labor shortages and inflation. This legislation would implement a temporary stay on the H-2A Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) for states struggling to find domestic workers to help stabilize U.S. food prices and ensure food production stays in the U.S.\n\n\u201cInflation has risen rapidly over the past year, increasing food and labor costs for Americans and farmers,\u201d Steube said. \u201cBiden\u2019s inept leadership and reckless economic policies have created historic inflation and an unemployment and supply chain disaster that is leaving our grocery store shelves and wallets empty. The temporary stay placed on the H-2A AEWR will help address the rising input costs crippling our farmers and consumers.\u201d\n\nAccording to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, food prices increased 4.6% from September 2020 to September 2021, impacting the ability of Americans, particularly low to moderate income earners, to put food on the table. Americans have also seen their fuel prices rise by as much as 100%, and producers have seen their fertilizer prices increase by roughly 60% in Florida. Due to widespread inflation, the 2022 AEWR is expected to rise significantly, increasing U.S. food production costs and exacerbating the ongoing labor crisis. For reference, the AEWR increased over 20% over the last 5 years when inflation remained below 2.5%. The Keep Food Local & Affordable Act would implement a temporary stay on AEWR increases, which will maintain more reasonable input costs for farmers and keep food costs lower for Americans.\n\n\u201cAFBF appreciates the leadership of Rep. Steube to address concerns with the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) for the H-2A program,\u201d said American Farm Bureau Federation President, Zippy Duvall. \u201cThe Keep Food Local and Affordable Act is a targeted response to immediate concerns regarding inflation and rising food costs. It provides temporary AEWR relief to farmers while Congress continues to work toward a long-term solution to agriculture\u2019s workforce shortage.\u201d\n\n\u201cLabor issues remain the major challenge facing Florida farmers today. That\u2019s why we have come to rely heavily on the H-2A program,\u201d stated Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb Smith. \u201cCoupled with rising costs across the farm, it creates an untenable position for agriculture. Florida\u2019s farmers and ranchers commend Mr. Steube for this effort to rein in out-of-control costs and preserve domestic food production.\u201c\n\n\u201cThe Keep Food Local & Affordable Act of 2021 will help reduce the impacts of the workforce, trade, and supply chain issues on the agriculture industry, providing short-term relief to costs that are felt first by American farmers, and then ultimately, consumers. The bill also underscores the need for long-term wage rate stability and comprehensive agricultural labor reform,\u201d said Mike Joyner, President of the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association. \u201cWe commend U.S. Rep. Steube and others for their leadership on this issue. We hope this effort and others encourage the U.S. Senate to continue its effort to produce meaningful labor reform that strengthens the future of American agriculture and our nation\u2019s food security.\u201d\n\n\u201cAt a time when the Florida citrus industry is already seeing record high production costs and finding it increasingly difficult to find domestic labor, a significant increase in the AEWR would be devastating,\u201d said Mike Sparks, Executive Vice President and CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual. \u201cThe Keep Food Local & Affordable Act provides a mechanism to ensure that growers are able to continue providing a healthy, delicious product right here at home. We\u2019re grateful to Congressman Steube for his work on this Bill and his continued support of Florida\u2019s signature industry.\u201d\n\nThis legislation is the House companion bill to S. 3134, introduced by U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.). Original cosponsors in the House are Representatives David Rouzer (R-N.C.), Bill Posey (R-Fla.), Fred Upton (R-Mich.), Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.), Greg Murphy (R-N.C.), Barry Moore (R-Ala.), Kat Cammack (R-Fla.), Austin Scott (R-Ga.), Dan Bishop (R-N.C.), Rick Crawford (R-Ark.), Richard Hudson (R-N.C.), Rick Allen (R-Ga.).\n\nThe full text of the legislation can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=375", "Franklin Votes Against Expensive and Unnecessary Infrastructure Spending Bill", "2021-11-06", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Scott Franklin", "F000472", "franklin.house.gov", "franklin", "https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Rep. Scott Franklin (FL-15) issued the below statement after voting against H.R. 3684, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework):\n\n\u201cLast night, I voted against the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act because it does not provide the infrastructure investment our economy needs and because it will set our country on the path to financial ruin. From the start, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi made clear that this infrastructure bill was tied to the so-called Build Back Better plan. While the infrastructure bill has some good aspects wrapped in a lot of bad, the Build Back Better plan is disastrous. Had the vote on the infrastructure bill failed, we could have stopped the BBB in its tracks. Now, I\u2019m concerned that it has a stronger chance of becoming law.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-oral-health-bill-advances", "Bilirakis Oral Health Bill Advances", "2021-11-05", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, the Oral Health Literacy and Awareness Act by Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12) andTony C\u00e1rdenas (D-CA-29) was voted favorably out of the Health Subcommittee. This bill directs the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to develop an oral health literacy strategy to reach underserved communities. This bipartisan bill aims to curb the rise in oral disease and related illnesses by providing prevention education through a five-year oral health literacy campaign.\n\n\"Oral health is a vital component of overall wellness that is too often overlooked. As with many aspects of healthcare, prevention is key to long-term health. Lack of good oral hygiene has been proven to exacerbate chronic health conditions and contributes to costly, yet preventable, emergency care,\" said Congressman Bilirakis. \"I am proud to be a part of this initiative to raise awareness about the proactive steps that can be taken to improve oral healthcare as I believe it will improve patient outcomes.\"\n\n\"Millions of Americans often neglect their oral health without understanding the long-term effects on their overall physical health,\" said Congressman C\u00e1rdenas. \"This is not just a public health issue, it's an economic one as well. Oral health illness result in tens of millions of lost workdays each year. Our bill focuses on educating vulnerable communities that often have higher than average oral health disease. By educating them on the importance of dental and oral hygiene, we hope to increase oral disease prevention and overall oral health care.\"\n\nAccording to findings from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), fewer than 49% of people used the oral health care system in 2020. Further, only 43.3% of children, adolescents and adults visited the dentist in 2016, which is less than the baseline set in 2007 (44.5%). Illnesses related to oral health have resulted in 6.1 million days of bed disability, 12.7 million days of restricted activity, and 20.5 million lost workdays each year, significantly impacting children, the elderly and other vulnerable populations. Tooth decay is the most common chronic illness among school-age youth, affecting roughly 1 in 4 children. In 2012, almost 1 in 5 Americans 65 and older had untreated cavities, and over 40% had gum disease. However, most oral health ailments can be avoided by increasing oral health literacy among all populations, with an emphasis on children to ensure they develop and maintain healthy habits into adulthood. Under the Oral Health Literacy and Awareness Act, HRSA will be directed to develop strategies that will advise us on the outcomes and effectiveness of targeted oral health literacy campaigns and will help inform future efforts to improve oral health literacy for all Americans.\n\nThe legislation is supported by the Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Dental Group Practice, American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Academy of Periodontology, American Association of Endodontists, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Association of Orthodontists, American Association of Women Dentists, American College of Emergency Physicians, American College of Prosthodontists, American Dental Association, American Dental Education Association, American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists, American Student Dental Association, Delta Dental Institute, Hispanic Dental Association, and GSK.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-rubio-introduce-bill-help-victims-domestic-abuse-perpetrated", "Buchanan, Rubio Introduce Bill to Help Victims of Domestic Abuse Perpetrated by Service Members", "2021-11-05", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Vern Buchanan", "B001260", "buchanan.house.gov", "buchanan", "https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014Congressman Vern Buchanan and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) today introduced the Rachel Booth Act, legislation to fix a gap in current law that prevents some individuals who suffer domestic abuse at the hands at a service member from receiving much-needed financial assistance.\n\nBuchanan introduced the legislation in the House with Congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-CA) and Rubio introduced the companion bill in the Senate with Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Maggie Hassan (D-NJ).\n\nThe bill is named after Rachel Booth, a constituent of Congressman Buchanan\u2019s from Lithia, FL, who found herself unable to access the financial assistance she should have been eligible for when her husband was convicted of domestic abuse in a civilian court and then discharged from the military on an unrelated offense.\n\n\u201cJust as our men and women in the Armed Forces sacrifice for their country, so too do military spouses. In times of crisis, it\u2019s critical that they are able to access these benefits in a timely and efficient manner,\u201d Buchanan said. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to introduce this important legislation alongside Congresswoman Speier and Sens. Rubio, Gillibrand and Hassan to help domestic abuse victims get back on their feet as soon as possible.\u201d\n\nCurrently, dependents of service members are eligible to apply for Transitional Compensation (TC) to help them transition to financial independence after the service member has been discharged from the military for a domestic abuse offense. However, there are cases in which the service member is convicted of a domestic abuse offense in a civilian court but is discharged from the military for another offense. Current law requires a dependent in this situation to request \u201cexceptional eligibility\u201d from the member\u2019s service secretary to be awarded TC, a process which could last as long as four years to be resolved.\n\nThe Rachel Booth Act would fix this error by ensuring standard eligibility for TC for dependents of service members who are convicted of domestic abuse in civilian court, even if they are separated from the military for another offense. It would also allow the service secretaries to delegate the authority to grant TC to those seeking an \u201cexceptional eligibility,\u201d a fix which would significantly decrease the time these claims are decided.\n\n\u201cOur current law did not serve Rachel Booth and it will not serve future victims who find themselves in the same difficult situation,\u201d Rubio said. \u201cThis legislation fixes the error in current law that prevents victims whose cases are handled by civilian courts from being eligible for transitional compensation. I urge my Senate colleagues to support this bill and deliver financial relief to these individuals.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor many survivors of domestic violence by military servicemembers, the Pentagon\u2019s transitional compensation program has been an empty promise,\u201d Speier said. \u201cI am pleased to join Congressman Buchanan and Senators Gillibrand and Rubio in introducing bipartisan legislation to close two of the most egregious gaps in this program, allowing for financial support to survivors when the servicemember is convicted of domestic abuse in a civilian court or when a domestic abuse allegation against a servicemember is substantiated, but the abuser is court-martialed or administratively separated for a different offense. Congress can and must do more to eliminate financial dependence as a barrier to reporting intimate-partner violence, and this bill is an important step.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-pens-op-ed-in-washington-examiner-exposing-so-called-biden-tax-credit-actually-welfare-to-illegal-immigrants/", "Steube Pens Op-Ed in Washington Examiner Exposing So-Called Biden Tax Credit, Actually Welfare to Illegal Immigrants", "2021-11-05", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "W. Gregory Steube", "S001214", "steube.house.gov", "steube", "https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Steube Pens Op-Ed in Washington Examiner Exposing So-Called Biden Tax Credit, Actually Welfare to Illegal Immigrants\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) penned an op-ed in the Washington Examiner highlighting the misleading aspects of President Biden\u2019s so-called \u201cchild tax credit\u201d that includes benefits to nontaxpayers, including illegal immigrants.\n\n\u201cThe Biden Administration and Democrats in Congress have now begun to use the IRS and tax code to circumvent this common-sense policy under the guise of a \u2018child tax credit.'\u201d Steube wrote. \u201cPassed through the American Rescue Plan Act, the Democrats boasted about the credit all year, declaring a victory for taxpaying families. What they failed to mention, however, is the program also gives direct cash payments to so-called \u2018taxpayers\u2019 who don\u2019t file or pay taxes, including illegal immigrants.\u201d\n\nTo qualify for Biden\u2019s \u201cchild tax credit,\u201d an individual simply needs to have a Taxpayer ID Number and a child who has a Social Security Number. There is no requirement that the individual works or has filed taxes.\n\n\u201cAmerican taxpaying families have been duped into believing they are actually benefitting from this misguided program, when in fact they have fallen victim to a larger scheme aiming to expand America\u2019s welfare state.\u201d Steube continued. \u201cThis program should not be extended until it can be implemented without giving payments to \u2018taxpayers\u2019 who don\u2019t actually pay taxes or to illegal immigrants. Until these changes are made, this thinly veiled benefit scheme will only hurt hardworking American families who will be left to pay the bill.\u201d\n\nThe full op-ed can be found here or below.\n\nSo-called Biden \u2018tax credit\u2019 is actually welfare for illegal immigrants\n\nBy Congressman Greg Steube\n\n\u201cIn the 1990s, Congress prohibited illegal immigrants from receiving taxpayer-funded welfare benefits. The bipartisan Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996, signed into law by Bill Clinton, ensured that American tax dollars would not be used to subsidize people in the country illegally. The Biden Administration and Democrats in Congress have now begun to use the IRS and tax code to circumvent this common-sense policy under the guise of a \u201cchild tax credit.\u201d Passed through the American Rescue Plan Act, the Democrats boasted about the credit all year, declaring a victory for taxpaying families. What they failed to mention, however, is the program also gives direct cash payments to so-called \u201ctaxpayers\u201d who don\u2019t file or pay taxes, including illegal immigrants.\n\nWhile many hardworking American families have benefited from the Trump tax cuts and could use further tax relief, the Biden Administration\u2019s new credit is not limited to American taxpayers. To qualify for the credit, an individual simply needs to have a Taxpayer ID Number and a child who has a Social Security Number. There is no requirement that the individual works or has filed taxes. And there is not even a requirement that the individual is in the country legally. While this program is currently only in effect for 2021, Democrats in Congress have made it a priority to include a permanent extension in their recent multi-trillion-dollar spending proposals.\n\nIf Democrats want to provide tax relief to hardworking American families, there is already a framework in place that would allow them to do this without turning it into a welfare program for illegal immigrants. The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) has existed for years with bipartisan support. Unlike the new Biden credit, the EITC only applies to those who actually pay taxes. There is also a monthly advanced payment option under the EITC. But simply increasing the EITC would not allow Biden and Congressional Democrats to provide a direct payday to those who don\u2019t work or are in the country illegally.\n\nOne of several consequences of this Democrat scheme is that it incentivizes individuals who have left the workforce to remain unemployed, even when their enhanced unemployment benefits run out. Businesses across the country are already struggling to find labor while many workers sit at home collecting benefits. This new Democrat subsidy to those not trying to find work will undoubtedly prolong these crippling effects on our businesses and economy.\n\nEven Democrat Senator Joe Manchin has recently called for a work requirement to accompany the credit. Such a requirement would remove the incentive for recipients to sit at home and collect while unemployed. A work requirement, if properly implemented, would also prohibit illegal immigrants who are not authorized to legally work in the United States from collecting this benefit.\n\nAdditionally, the program does not count as income when calculating other benefits, which many of the non-working recipients are likely to receive. Generally, an increase in income would impact benefits such as food stamps, public housing, or welfare. But the payments under the Democrats\u2019 program are misleadingly classified as \u201ctax credits\u201d and therefore do not impact the amount of other benefits received.\n\nSo, how much will this subsidy of non-taxpayers and illegal immigrants cost? According to the Joint Committee on Taxation, this benefit will cost American taxpayers over $80 billion in 2021 alone. How will Democrats look to pay for it? By raising taxes on actual working families and small businesses of course.\n\nHow\u2019s that for a tax credit?\n\nAmerican taxpaying families have been duped into believing they are actually benefitting from this misguided program, when in fact they have fallen victim to a larger scheme aiming to expand America\u2019s welfare state. This program should not be extended until it can be implemented without giving payments to \u201ctaxpayers\u201d who don\u2019t actually pay taxes or to illegal immigrants. Until these changes are made, this thinly veiled benefit scheme will only hurt hardworking American families who will be left to pay the bill.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=9FD50F8D-2A92-4EE7-82F2-43E13F16A67B", "Webster Asks President Biden for Information on Secret Flights of Illegal Immigrants", "2021-11-05", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont), Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL), and members of the Florida Delegation sent a letter to President Biden requesting information on the taxpayer-funded secret flights that transported illegal immigrants to the State of Florida.\n\n\"President Biden's policies have created a humanitarian and national security crisis at our border. Instead of tackling this crisis, reversing his failed policies, supporting our hardworking border agents and securing our border, Biden's administration is transporting illegal migrants to other states in the dead of the night,\" said Rep. Webster. \"We know that gang members and traffickers are exploiting our open borders, but what we don't know is whether these individuals are among those being resettled in our state. President Biden needs to provide these answers quickly and secure our border.\"\n\n\"In further dismissal of the ongoing crisis on our southern border, this administration deciding to transport throughout the country in the middle of the night proves just how inept Joe Biden is at leading the nation,\" said Rep. Donalds. \"Due to Biden's inaction, every state is now a border state. For the protection of our constituents and our state, my Florida colleagues and I demand answers on the covert resettlement of these illegal immigrants. The American people deserve clarity.\"\n\n\"This administration must be more open and transparent about the crisis at our southern border,\" said Rep. Bill Posey. \"Americans have every right to know how the influx of immigrants entering our country illegally will affect their communities.\"\n\nClick here for a copy of the letter. Full text is below.\n\nDear President Biden,\n\nThe state of the ongoing humanitarian crisis occurring at our southern border has reached dire levels. The surge of illegal immigrants seeking to migrate into the United States is at an all-time high, with the Washington Post reporting that authorities have detained more than 1.7 million migrants during the 2021 Fiscal Year.\n\nThe flights that your administration facilitated in the dead of the night to secretly transport illegal migrants is indefensible and another failed attempt to diminish the severity of the border crisis. Spreading the problem across the United States is not solving the problem and the authorization of these flights directly jeopardizes the health, security, and safety of every American.\n\nSince assuming office, your administration has often blamed and criticized the Trump administration for the current state of affairs at our southern border. However, former President Trump\u2019s acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf admitted that officials within your administration were properly briefed and warned about the dangerous and dire consequences that would result if President Trump\u2019s immigration policies were dismantled. On your first day as President, you terminated border wall funding that was appropriated to complete construction of our southern border wall \u2013 of which nearly $1.4 billion has already been authorized by Congress. U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents were left scurrying to address the sudden influx of illegal migrant crossings along a 2,000 mile stretch that makes up the U.S./Mexican border. Gaping holes, lack of proper attention to the border crisis, and a deficiency of resources has resulted in an exponential increase in attacks on Border Patrol agents by smugglers and drug traffickers alike.\n\nIn September of 2021, your administration defended not requiring illegal immigrants to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or the requirement of providing a negative test result \u2013 which only further escalates the extent of this humanitarian crisis. In a press briefing, White House Press Secretary attempted to justify your administration\u2019s reckless decision to not properly medically screen the illegal immigrants surging our borders by expressing the belief that the migrants are, \u201cnot intending to stay here for a lengthy period of time.\u201d However, the covert flights ordered by your administration in a botched attempt to cover up the gravity of this situation directly contrasts the false assurance Jen Psaki provided to the American people.\n\nThe reckless decision of your administration to secretly transport unaccompanied minors throughout the United States furthers the risk of smuggling and human trafficking. As a result of your administration\u2019s open border immigration policies, it is expected that more than 100,000 unaccompanied migrant children will illegally cross into the United States by the end of the year. Hidalgo County Sheriff J.E. Guerra, which encompasses several Texas border towns, highlighted the massive profit drug cartels have made \u2013 specifically stating drug cartels, \u201cmaking more money on humans than they are on the drug side.\u201d Cartel traffickers are exploiting migrant parents by charging up to $1,500 per body and continue to take advantage of our immigration system on a daily basis. Every hour that our southern border remains open and vulnerable, the United States is fueling the inhumane smuggling of people and fattening the pockets of coyote members to the tune of billions of dollars.\n\nThe resettlement of illegal aliens in the State of Florida does not solve any of the consequences of your administration\u2019s open border policy. Purposely keeping Americans in the dark regarding the travels of illegal immigrants risks public safety, wastes taxpayer dollars, and is a grave misstep in the name of justice. The burden of misguided leadership from elected officials should never fall upon the American people.\n\nYour administration\u2019s gross irresponsibility and mismanagement of this crisis endangers the sovereignty of the United States. The secrets occurring in darkness by officials within your administration must be brought to light. The responsibility of the Office of the President of the United States is to serve the People, not the best interest of illegal immigrants.\n\nMr. President, on behalf of the constituents within our districts and the entire State of Florida, we respectfully request answers for the following questions:\n\nWas Yery Noel Medina Ulloa a part of the secret flights to Jacksonville, Florida? Ulloa falsified his age to enter the country illegally and made it to Jacksonville where he later allegedly killed an innocent father of four earlier this month.\n\nWas the Governor of Florida notified prior to the arrival of the illegal immigrants?\n\nWhat is the total amount of tax dollars used in the secret travels of these immigrants?\n\nWhereas the arrivals of illegal immigrants were unbeknownst to the people of Florida, how many illegal immigrants did the State of Florida receive?\n\nWhat congressional districts in Florida were illegal immigrants flown into?\n\nWe look forward to your response on this pressing issue.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=AFA6B0CA-DE9C-418D-AD6A-5E096B1D743F", "House Passes Webster Bargain-Price Bill", "2021-11-05", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Last night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 2220 to allow General Services Administration (GSA) to enter into bargain price purchasing agreements. Introduced by Representatives Daniel Webster (R-FL), Michael Guest (R-MS) and Greg Pence (R-IN) the bill passed with broad bipartisan support. H.R. 2220 ensures that the General Services Administration (GSA) is able to negotiate discounted purchase options in situations when the buying of federal property is the cheaper alternative to a long-term lease.\n\n\"Every dollar spent in Washington is a dollar taken out of a hardworking American's pocket,\" said Congressman Webster, R-Clermont. \"I ran for Congress pledging to eliminate waste and improve efficiencies, so we are better investing taxpayer dollars. With today's action, we are one step closer to removing unnecessary obstacles that increase costs and replacing them with common sense practices that will save money. I thank my House colleagues for their support for this commonsense bill and encourage my colleagues in the U.S. Senate to pass it in a timely manner.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kat-cammack-leads-members-florida-house-delegation-letter-us-department", "Rep. Kat Cammack Leads Members Of Florida House Delegation Letter To U.S. Department Of Education Over Mask Mandates In Florida Schools", "2021-11-04", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Kat Cammack", "C001039", "cammack.house.gov", "cammack", "https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Rep. Cammack and six members of the Florida House delegation sent a letter to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Programs at the Department of Education in response to threatened \"enforcement actions\" against the Florida Department of Education for its decision to limit state funding for school boards in Alachua and Broward Counties.\n\nThe letter raises questions over the politicization of school funding to subsidize the salaries of school board officials who defied Governor Ron DeSantis' orders prohibiting state mask mandates. Funds for the school boards in the aforementioned counties are derived from a federal program designed to improve and enhance school safety, prompting lawmakers' questions about the grant's proper use.\n\n\"Not only have the funds for these Florida counties been misappropriated, but the federal Department of Education cannot be used as a political tool to punish decisions that are clearly under the state of Florida's purview,\" said Rep. Cammack. \"We urge the Biden Administration and the Department of Education to end their retaliation against the Sunshine State and get back to its mandate: educating American students.\"\n\nLetter co-signers include Reps. Gus Bilirakis, Byron Donalds, Scott Franklin, Bill Posey, Greg Steube, and Daniel Webster.\n\nThe full text of the letter can be found below.\n\n_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________\n\nThe Honorable Ian Rosenblum\n\nDeputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Programs\n\nU.S. Department of Education\n\n400 Maryland Avenue, SW\n\nWashington, D.C. 20202\n\nDear Mr. Rosenblum,\n\nWe write in response to your October 25th letter threatening \"enforcement actions\" against the Florida Department of Education for its decision to limit state education funding to the school boards of Alachua County and Broward County. It is unconscionable that the U.S. Department of Education is attempting to further politicize school funding in order to subsidize the salaries of school board officials who directly defied the Governor\u2019s orders prohibiting mask mandates in the state.\n\nThe Department of Education\u2019s grants totaling nearly $569,000 to the Alachua County and Broward County school boards under the Project to Support America\u2019s Families and Educators goes against the orders of Governor DeSantis while a court case is ongoing. Moreover, the authority for the grant program cited by the Department of Education is a gross misuse of funds that are intended for National Activities for School Safety. Section 4631(a)(1)(B) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act states that the Secretary \"may use a portion of such funds to carry out other activities to improve students' safety and well-being, during and after the school day, under this section directly or through grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements with public or private entities or individuals, or other Federal agencies, such as providing technical assistance to States and local educational agencies carrying out activities under this section or conducting a national evaluation.\"\n\nIn the Department of Education\u2019s notice of the grant, the Department states, \"[t]he funding will help districts keep these measures in place and maintain district and school stability despite the financial penalty. Alachua County Public Schools (ACPS) will use these funds to stabilize district staffing and compensation levels necessary to keep CDC recommended strategies in place, promoting student safety for its 29,761 students.\"\n\nHow do school board members' salaries improve students\u2019 safety and well-being?\n\nIn your letter, you cite section 8522 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended, which states, \"A State shall not take into consideration payments under this Act\u2026in determining\u2026the amount of State aid, with respect to free public education of children.\"\n\nYour letter suggests that grants to pay the salaries of school board members affect the \"free public education of children.\" In no way should these grants be construed to affect children\u2019s education.\n\nWe urge you to immediately end the retaliation against Florida, the Florida Department of Education, and our children.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=205", "Congressman Dunn Cautions That President Bidens Vaccine Mandate Will Hurt Hardworking Americans", "2021-11-04", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Neal P. Dunn", "D000628", "dunn.house.gov", "dunn", "https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (Florida-02) released a statement following the Biden Administration\u2019s announcement of a new COVID-19 vaccination rule that would require private businesses with 100 or more employees, health care workers, and federal contractors to be fully vaccinated by January 4, 2022.\n\n\u201cThe Biden Administration\u2019s aggressive push to vaccinate all Americans by force is making an already devastating workforce shortage even worse. While I recommend getting the COVID-19 vaccine, I also believe that this is a decision to be made by you and your doctor \u2013 not the federal government,\u201d said Congressman Dunn. \u201cThousands of hardworking Americans are at risk of losing their jobs thanks to this unnecessary mandate. The unnecessary strain on our health care industry is horribly shortsighted and will result in reduced access to care, which is the last thing we need right now. Currently, 70% of adult Americans are now fully vaccinated and COVID-19 cases are decreasing. If President Biden wants this trend to continue, he must focus on an expanded strategy incorporating natural immunity research and effective treatments.\u201d\n\nThe Biden Administration\u2019s new vaccination policies include the following:\n\nAn Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirement for employers with 100 or more employees to ensure each of their workers are fully vaccinated or tests for COVID-19 on at least a weekly basis. The OSHA rule will also require that these employers provide paid time for employees to get vaccinated, and ensure all unvaccinated workers wear a face mask in the workplace.\n\nA Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requirement that health care workers at facilities participating in Medicare and Medicaid are fully vaccinated. The rule applies to more than 17 million workers at approximately 76,000 health care facilities, including hospitals and long-term care facilities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://gimenez.house.gov/2021/11/gimenez-statement-new-osha-guidelines", "Gimenez Statement on New OSHA Guidelines", "2021-11-04", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Carlos A. Gimenez", "G000593", "gimenez.house.gov", "gimenez", "https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) issued the following statement after today\u2019s emergency temporary standard issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA):\n\nPresident Biden, who has a habit of following political science instead of real science, continues to insist that federal employees, including our brave servicemembers who put their lives on the line every day in service to our country, must be vaccinated or else they face termination. Even the Biden Administration\u2019s own OSHA guidelines say there is no need for full vaccine mandates in the workplace, allowing unvaccinated workers to continue their line of work with proper testing and mask requirements.\n\nIt is time for President Biden and the bureaucrats in Washington, D.C. to admit that their push for vaccine mandates is not rooted in science. The President has publicly stated his desire for servicemembers, police offices, firefighters, and doctors who choose to not vaccinate to callously have their livelihoods ripped out from under them. We must do everything in our power to ensure our first responders and frontline workers remain protected now, and in the future, regardless of their vaccination status or the state in which they live.\n\n\\r\\n", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=56E0C38A-2BE4-4FE4-BCE8-A80D287303CB", "House Passes Webster Bill that Eliminates Barriers to Rural Internet Development", "2021-11-04", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today. the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3193, the E-Bridge Act, co-sponsored by Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, with broad bipartisan support. This bill removes hurdles for broadband projects under Economic Development Administration (EDA) grants, including difficult last-mile efforts that often delay rural broadband deployment.\n\n\"We know broadband impacts the ability of distressed communities to attract jobs and businesses across a host of other industries, including the healthcare and energy sectors,\" said Congressman Webster. \"I thank my House colleagues for their support for this commonsense bill, which removes unnecessary hurdles and helps more Americans get connected. I want to make sure that efforts to achieve this goal do not harm existing rural broadband providers which are often small businesses themselves that have spent capital and time trying to reach these communities - often in creative ways. I encourage our colleagues in the U.S. Senate to pass H.R. 3193 in a timely manner.\"\n\nH.R. 3193 also ensures that local communities can partner with the private sector in carrying out broadband projects and gives communities more flexibility in complying with their funding match requirements. By helping to increase the reach of broadband to rural and economically distressed communities, the E-BRIDGE Act will help:\n\nAttract new businesses and support current businesses in distressed regions of the country,\n\nStrengthen healthcare systems and delivery of medical care to vulnerable populations,\n\nLay the groundwork for economic recovery in these areas, and\n\nBetter prepare these communities for future disasters or epidemics.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=73FAC261-FC13-4286-AA1F-BA6CC7212739", "Webster & Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Bar Taxation of Unrealized Capital Gains", "2021-11-04", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) joined Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) in introducing legislation that bars the federal government from imposing or implementing taxation on unrealized capital gains from any taxable asset.\n\n\"Under the guise of making sure the rich pay their fair share, President Biden and House Democrats are pushing tax policies that take more money out of the pockets of the Middle Class and Main Street businesses,\" Rep. Webster said. \"Taxpayer dollars do not belong to Washington. They belong to hardworking Americans, who best know how to spend their hard-earned dollars. This bill allows small business owners to keep more of the fruits of their labor to re-invest in their business and in their employees, which empowers Americans with more money to buy a home, save for their children's education, and invest for retirement.\"\n\n\"Democrats have become so desperate to find the means to fund their multi-trillion-dollar spending spree, they've now resorted to taxing wealth that technically doesn't exist,\" Rep. Donalds said. \"An unrealized capital gains tax will empower the federal government to access the private transactions of Americans, needlessly expand bureaucracy in Washington, and will stifle economic prosperity for Americans.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-discusses-difficult-holiday-outlook-americans-while-warning-economy", "Bilirakis Discusses Difficult Holiday Outlook for Americans While Warning Economy is Headed in the Wrong Direction", "2021-11-03", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. This Thanksgiving is expected to be the most expensive in history due to skyrocketing inflation. Americans have also been warned that their Christmas presents will cost more and might not arrive on time due to the supply chain disruptions. Representative Gus Bilirakis discussed these bleak projections earlier today on the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\n\"President Biden and House Democrats' out-of-control spending policies are to blame for both the economic and supply chain woes, said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. \"To make matters worse, they are now pushing a \"Made in America\" tax, which will only drive businesses and jobs overseas and further devastate our troubled economy.\"\n\nThere are plenty of signs that our economy is significantly struggling. Most recently, GDP growth decelerated to 2% in the third quarter. This is the slowest growth rate since the start of the pandemic-era recovery. Real disposable personal income also decreased another 5.6% in the third quarter after decreasing a staggering 30.2% in the second. \"We must reverse course and abandon these irresponsible policies rather than continuing to compound the economic pain,\" Bilirakis lamented.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-hold-15th-annual-veterans-resource-fair", "Bilirakis to Hold 15th Annual Veterans\u2019 Resource Fair", "2021-11-03", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC: As part of Veterans and Military Families Month Congressman, Gus Bilirakis is hosting his 15th Annual Veterans Resource Fair on Saturday, November 13, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. \u2013 12:00 p.m. The event will take place on the Pasco Hernando State College Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch. Local Veterans and their families are encouraged to attend to learn more about available resources in the community, including: healthcare, education, benefits, employment services, mental health treatments, housing, and other social services.\n\n\"Throughout my tenure in Congress, I've made advocating for Veterans and their families a top priority,\" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. \"Each year, through the Veterans Resource Fair, we help link Veterans in need with available services provided through government agencies and non-profit organizations. My casework team will be on hand to help Veterans who're experiencing difficulty with a federal agency.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/rodgers-and-bilirakis-unveil-comprehensive-strategy-create-national-privacy", "Rodgers and Bilirakis Unveil Comprehensive Strategy to Create National Privacy Standard", "2021-11-03", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 Today, House Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Republican Leader for Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee Gus Bilirakis issued the following statement on a comprehensive legislative draft that establishes a national privacy standard to protect Americans and sets clear rules for consumer privacy and data security in the U.S.\n\n\"We now share more of our personal information online than ever before. Everything from information about where we bank, what we buy at the grocery store, to where we drive, and how well we sleep. In order to ensure that our information is protected, we need one national privacy law that supports small businesses and innovation, promotes transparency, and incentivizes solutions for data security. Guided by these principles, Energy and Commerce Republicans are building on our privacy leadership with a new framework to establish a national privacy standard.\n\n\"This national standard will provide clear rules of the road and give Americans the same data protections wherever they go. Privacy does not end at state lines and Americans deserve better than a patchwork of different and conflicting state laws. Every Republican Member of our Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee will be leading on our solutions to protect people's privacy. By building a comprehensive, forward-thinking national privacy standard, we will secure American economic leadership and ensure that we win the future.\"\n\nEvery Member on the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee will lead on framework solutions in this comprehensive package:\n\n\u00b7 Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) will focus on the creation of a Bureau of Consumer Privacy and Data Security, and how the FTC will implement transparency requirements.\n\n\u00b7 Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI) will focus on how \"legitimate purpose\" is defined for companies, and how companies handle the retention of information so as not to be a cybersecurity target.\n\n\u00b7 Rep. Bob Latta (OH) will focus on the need for one national standard and avoiding conflicting regulations, as well as proper third-party data sharing allowances.\n\n\u00b7 Rep. Brett Guthrie (KY) will focus on risk assessment, and mitigation techniques that include emerging technologies like blockchain to protect consumer data.\n\n\u00b7 Rep. Larry Bucshon(IN) will focus on privacy-by-design so reasonable policies and procedures are followed through the course of collecting, use and sharing of information.\n\n\u00b7 Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL) will focus on data security practices to protect data from falling into the wrong hands.\n\n\u00b7 Rep. Debbie Lesko (R-AZ) will focus on categories of sensitive information and ensure longstanding consensus policies on anti-discrimination are followed.\n\n\u00b7 Rep. Greg Pence (R-IN) will focus on how small and mid-size entities are defined versus large entities, as well as how personal information is defined.\n\n\u00b7 Rep. Kelly Armstrong (R-ND) will focus on the proper use of enforcement powers by the FTC, cooperation with State Attorneys General, and self-regulatory guidelines and safe harbors of which businesses may avail themselves.\n\nNOTE: The Energy and Commerce Committee Republican privacy framework is guided by four principles articulated by Leader Rodgers and Bilirakis\u2014which are outlined here\u2014to ensure a national standard that promotes innovation, protects consumers and sets clear rules for data privacy in America. To ensure a national privacy framework that increase transparency and improve accountability, enhances security for Americans, and protect innovation and small businesses, the framework adheres to the following principles:\n\nPrinciple #1: The internet does not stop at state lines, so why should one state set the standard for the rest of the country? Creating arbitrary barriers to the internet may result in different options, opportunities, and experiences online based on where you live.\n\nPrinciple #2: A lack of transparency has led to where we are today and any federal bill must ensure people understand how their information is collected, used, and shared. We must also ensure that companies who misuse personal information must be held sufficiently accountable.\n\nPrinciple #3: Any federal bill must ensure companies are implementing reasonable measures to protect people's personal information.\n\nPrinciple #4: We must also protect small businesses and innovation. We know that in Europe, investments in startups are down more than 40% since their data protection and privacy law\u2014the General Data Protection Regulation\u2014went into effect. We must guard against a similar situation here. We want small businesses hiring coders and engineers, not lawyers.\n\nCLICK HERE for the discussion draft bill text.\n\nREAD MORE about Leader Rodgers' guiding principles for a national privacy standard.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/two-bilirakis-bills-advance", "Two Bilirakis Bills Advance", "2021-11-03", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC: Earlier today, two bills authored by Congressman Gus Bilirakis were passed favorably out of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee. The Data Mapping to Save Moms' Lives Act will use data mapping to identify areas of the country where poor maternal health rates overlap with a lack of broadband access in order to deploy telehealth services most effectively. The United States is one of the only countries in the developed world with a rising maternal mortality rate. Around 700 women die each year in pregnancy related deaths\u2014though 3 in 5 of those deaths are preventable. The problem is especially prevalent in rural communities and amongst women of color who continue to experience disproportionately high rates of maternal and infant mortality. \"We need to use every tool at our disposal to improve health outcomes for moms and babies. Including this information into our broadband mapping will help us achieve this goal and ensure these moms get the prenatal care they deserve,\" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis.\n\nThe second Bilirakis bill that passed today involves the issue of spectrum, the highly sought-after radio frequencies that make wireless communications possible, which has revolutionized the world's way of communicating. Congressman Gus Bilirakis has been working to bring federal laws up to speed with the technological advances of the 21st century for the past six years. Currently, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) hold shared jurisdiction over the management of spectrum policies. However, these agencies have not created a system to coordinate usage of spectrum policies since their 2003 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Finding solutions to create a consistent and efficient use of spectrum that helps to foster innovation is key to promoting America's economic growth, universal service goals, and technological leadership. In recognition of this fact, Congressman Bilirakis introduced the Spectrum Coordination Act that would require the NTIA and FCC to revisit and update their 18 year-old policies. Since the Congressman originally filed this legislation last year, the agencies have begun to improve coordination, but this bill will formalize the process and ensure its completion.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=466", "Rep. Donalds Announces Legislation Prohibiting the Implementation of Unrealized Capital Gains Taxation", "2021-11-03", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Byron Donalds", "D000032", "donalds.house.gov", "donalds", "https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 Yesterday, Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) introduced legislation that bars the federal government from imposing or implementing taxation on unrealized capital gains from any taxable asset.\n\n\u201cDemocrats have become so desperate to find the means to fund their multi-trillion-dollar spending spree, they\u2019ve now resorted to taxing wealth that technically doesn\u2019t exist,\u201d said Rep. Donalds. \u201cAn unrealized capital gains tax will empower the federal government to access the private transactions of Americans, needlessly expand bureaucracy in Washington, and will stifle economic prosperity for Americans.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongressional Democrats will stop at nothing to fund their socialist agenda. The idea of taxing unrealized gains makes zero sense. How can you tax something that is admittedly\u2026 unrealized? Their boondoggle of a bill is filled with gimmicky pay-for after gimmicky pay-for and this is no exception,\u201d said Rep. Timmons. \u201cI thank my friend Rep. Donalds for introducing this bill and am proud to join him in this effort.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith inflation at a 30-year high, now is the worst time to raise taxes on American families and businesses,\u201d said Rep. Rose. \u201cThe proposed capital gains tax would lead to fewer jobs and lower wages. Rather than pushing tax increases, the Biden administration should be introducing policies that promote economic growth so that our economy can continue to grow. Businesses are flocking to Tennessee because of our pro-business and pro-family tax code. Take note, Mr. President.\u201d\n\n\u201cDemocrats are pitching several dangerous ideas to pay for their multi-trillion-dollar spending package, all of which will hurt our economy and pass increased costs onto consumers,\u201d said Rep. Fitzgerald. \u201cI\u2019m joining Rep. Donalds on this bill to ensure a tax on unrealized capital gains does not take effect. Studies have found implementing a capital gains tax would shrink our economy, and this is an outcome our country simply cannot afford on top of skyrocketing inflation.\u201d\n\n\u201cUnder the guise of making sure the rich pay their fair share, President Biden and House Democrats are pushing tax policies that take more money out of the pockets of the Middle Class and Main Street businesses,\u201d said Congressman Webster. \u201cTaxpayer dollars do not belong to Washington. They belong to hardworking Americans, who best know how to spend their hard-earned dollars. This bill allows small business owners to keep more of the fruits of their labor to re-invest in their business and in their employees, which empowers Americans with more money to buy a home, save for their children\u2019s education, and invest for retirement.\u201d\n\n\u201cI'm proud to support Congressman Donald\u2019s commonsense measure in response to Washington bureaucrats' absurd push to tax unrealized capital gains at the expense of policies that promote economic growth, domestic investment, and American innovation,\u201d said Rep. Owens.\n\nRead this legislation in its entirety here.\n\nHouse Original Co-Sponsors: Reps. Budd (NC-13), Cammack (FL-03), Fitzgerald (WI-05), Harshbarger (TN-01), Higgins (LA-03), Jackson (TX-13), Owens (UT-04), Rose (TN-06), Timmons (SC-04), Webster (FL-11)\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-and-colleagues-oppose-sale-f-16s-turkey-demand-information-state", "Bilirakis and Colleagues Oppose Sale of F-16s to Turkey, Demand Information from State Department", "2021-11-02", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. - Congressman Gus Bilirakis, alongside his Hellenic Caucus Co-Chair Carolyn Maloney (NY-12) and Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), led a group of colleagues in a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken opposing US plans to sell Turkey F-16s and demanding information from the State Department following recent reports of a request from Turkey to purchase 40 F-16 fighter jets and dozens of modernization kits for its existing warplanes from the United States.\n\nIn the letter the lawmakers wrote, \"In October it was reported that Turkey requested to purchase \u201840 Lockheed Martin-made F-16 fighter jets and nearly 80 modernization kits for its existing warplanes.' On October 17, Turkish President Erdogan told reporters that the United States \u2018has proposed the sale of a batch of F-16 fighter jets' but the reported sale has yet to be confirmed. We have noted that your Department has declined to answer questions about the LOR, citing policy of not commenting before Congress has been notified of the LOR. We believe that the widespread reporting on Turkey's request, as well as President Erdogan's own statements, provide us sufficient basis to declare our opposition to this potential sale.\"\n\n\"We share your goal of a Turkey that is rooted to the West, but we will not achieve that goal if the Erdogan government escapes accountability for violating U.S. law and the standards of the NATO alliance,\" continued the lawmakers. \"We request a formal notification of any Turkish LOR, the specifics of such an LOR, the Administration's position on such an LOR, and responses to our specific objections. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter, and we look forward to your response.\"\n\nThe effort to prevent the sale of F-16s to Turkey is supported by the Hellenic American Leadership Council, the Armenian National Committee of America, the American Friends of Kurdistan, the Hindu American Foundation, the Middle East Forum, the American Jewish Committee, PSEKA, the American Hellenic Institute, the Coordinated Effort of Hellenes, and the Armenian Council of America.\n\n\"Turkey's illegal and unfettered actions are indicative of President Erdogan's transformation of Turkey to a rogue state led by a leader with a nationalistic philosophy, Neo-Ottoman ambitions, and a complete disregard for following international law,\" said Congressman Bilirakis. \"Erdogan continues to violate American law (the Countering American Adversaries through Sanctions Act, or CAATSA), which alone makes Turkey ineligible for new F16s. But beyond his violation of CAATSA, he also acts contrary to American interests, with his dangerous behavior contributing to the instability of the region. For all these reasons, we absolutely should not sell Turkey F-16s.\"\n\n\"As Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues, I am proud to join Rep. Pappas in opposing any transfer of such advanced and sensitive military equipment to Turkey,\" said Congresswoman Maloney. \"Turkey's purchase and use of Russian S-400 missile systems in defiance of NATO standards and U.S. law, decades-long violations of the Republic of Cyprus' sovereignty, and increasingly destabilizing behavior in the Eastern Mediterranean and West Asia clearly demonstrate that sales of advanced U.S. military equipment like the F-16 and associated modernization kits must stop.\"\n\n\"I would like to commend Representatives Pappas, Bilirakis and Maloney for leading their colleagues in asserting Congress' role in U.S. foreign policy,\" said Endy Zemenides, Executive Director, Hellenic American Leadership Council. \"Congress forced the Trump Administration to do the right thing regarding Turkey and F35s, and now has to make sure no one in the Biden Administration tries to circumvent U.S. law and Congressional intent. Until Turkey decides to honor U.S. interests, U.S. values, and U.S. law, it should not get F-16s or any other American weapons.\"\n\n\"Along with all our coalition partners, we want to thank Congressman Pappas for his principled leadership and also to express our sincere appreciation to Congressman Bilirakis, Congresswoman Maloney and all the U.S. Representatives who joined in this bipartisan initiative to protect our U.S. national interests by blocking a reckless sale of U.S. F-16 fighters to the increasingly hostile and openly anti-American Erdogan regime,\" said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian.\n\n\"Turkey's request for modernized F-16s after being removed from the F-35 program shows that President Erdogan isn't getting the message. It is President Erdogan's behavior that needs to change, not the specific details of his request. The S-400 missile compromised vital technology associated with the F-35, which is what led to Turkey's removal from the program. Modernized F-16s radar use similar technology to F-35s, and present similar risks in proximity to the S-400 missile. This is to say nothing of Turkey's numerous other problems, such as its recent inclusion on the \"gray list\" for potential terror finance according to the Financial Action Task Force and numerous human rights abuses in Syria and against its own citizens,\" said Cliff Smith, Washington Project Director of the Middle East Forum. \"President Biden has repeatedly stressed that Turkey should improve its human rights record and return to acting like a NATO ally. But under Erdogan, Turkey hasn't done so. Until that happens, the State Department shouldn't consider the request. It would be unacceptable to rely on a loophole to sell these planes to Turkey.\"\n\n\"Turkey has proven to be an unreliable ally and is in violation of numerous UN Resolutions concerning the continued occupation of Cyprus,\" said Philip Christopher, President of the International Coordinating Committee Justice for Cyprus (PSEKA). \"It has jeopardized the security of the United States and NATO!\"\n\n\"We welcome the leadership of Reps. Pappas, Bilirakis, Maloney, and all of the signatories of this important letter,\" said Taniel Koushakjian, Director Of Government Relations & Policy, Hindu American Foundation. \"The growing military relationship between Turkey and Pakistan is a real concern to millions of Americans who support upholding U.S. law and ensuring that sophisticated U.S. military components that are vital to our national security don't end up in the wrong hands.\"\n\n\"American Friends of Kurdistan applauds the members of Congress who have taken a just and critical stance on preventing Turkey from attaining additional F-16 fighter jets and upgrades,\" said Diliman Abdulkader, Co-founder and Spokesperson of American Friends of Kurdistan. \"The United States had saved many civilian lives when it removed Turkey from the F-35 program, the United States would be saving many more lives if it prevents Turkey from modernizing and expanding its current F-16 fleet. Turkey has done enough damage to the region with the weapons it already holds, and this step is decisive to keeping the region secure. The F-16s will undoubtedly be used against the Kurds across the region, we must do everything we can to prevent this.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nIn 2017 Congress adopted and the President signed into law the Countering American Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), legislation which imposes sanctions on Iran, Russia, and North Korea and includes sanctions specifically targeting and designed to undermine Russia's defense and intelligence sectors. Despite the intent of Congress being abundantly clear, Turkey announced that it would purchase the S-400 surface-to-air missile defense system from Russia. Despite nearly three years of attempts to find a solution that would prevent Turkey from being in violation of CAATSA, Turkey persisted with its acquisition and activation of the Russian S-400s and CAATSA sanctions were imposed.\n\nAfter Turkey purchased the S-400 system, Congress insisted on Turkey's ejection from the F-35 program because of the significant risks associated with collocating S-400s and F-35s, and in June 2019, Turkey was officially ejected from the program. Experts have noted that providing Turkey F-16s and modernization kits to upgrade their existing warplanes poses similar collocation risks so long as Ankara continues to possess Russian S-400s.\n\nThe full text of the letter is available here and below:\n\nDear Secretary Blinken:\n\nWe are writing with regards to the reported Letter of Request (LOR) to the United States by the Republic of Turkey in association with its attempt to buy 40 F-16 fighter jets and dozens of modernization kits for its existing warplanes.\n\nAs you know, in 2017 Congress adopted and the President signed into law the Countering American Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). While CAATSA was progressing, and despite the intent of Congress being abundantly clear, Turkey announced that it would purchase the S-400 surface-to-air missile defense system from Russia. Despite nearly three years of attempts to find a solution that would prevent Turkey from being in violation of CAATSA, Ankara persisted with its acquisition and activation of the Russian S-400s and CAATSA sanctions were imposed on Turkey.\n\nIn October it was reported that Turkey requested to purchase \"40 Lockheed Martin-made F-16 fighter jets and nearly 80 modernization kits for its existing warplanes.\"[1] On October 17, Turkish President Erdogan told reporters that the United States \"has proposed the sale of a batch of F-16 fighter jets\"[2] but the reported sale has yet to be confirmed.\n\nWe have noted that your Department has declined to answer questions about the LOR, citing policy of not commenting before Congress has been notified of the LOR. We believe that the widespread reporting on Turkey's request, as well as President Erdogan's own statements, provide us sufficient basis to declare our opposition to this potential sale.\n\nThere are many reasons for our opposition:\n\nLess than one year since the imposition of these CAATSA sanctions, the Erdogan government has made it clear that it has no intention of coming into compliance with U.S. law or dealing with the underlying conditions that led to Turkey's ejection from the F-35 program and Congressional holds on purchases of American weapons by Turkey. Indeed, in September, President Erdogan declared his intention of purchasing additional S-400s.[3]\n\nDuring his confirmation hearing, President Biden's nominee for Ambassador to Turkey, former Senator Jeff Flake, declared that Turkey should face additional CAATSA sanctions should it acquire additional Russian weapon systems and we agree. Since this appears to be the position of both the Administration and Congress, even considering Turkey's LOR under the present circumstances sends the wrong signal to Turkey and gives it reason to doubt our resolve while continuing to develop its military relationship with Russia.\n\nOne of the reasons Congress insisted on Turkey's ejection from the F-35 program was because of the significant risks associated with collocating S-400s and F-35s. Experts have noted that providing Turkey the Block 70 modernization kits poses similar collocation risks if Ankara continues to possess Russian S-400s. Since upgraded F-16s still play such a significant role for us and our reliable allies, that is a risk that we do not find acceptable.\n\nFinally, given the CAATSA sanctions already imposed, we anticipate that such a sale could only be finalized via invoking technicalities \u2013 for example, by trying to sell the jets to an entity other than Turkey's SSB, which has been sanctioned. Such an approach would have to be viewed as an inappropriate circumvention of the intent of Congress and would force us to consider additional legislation to restrict a potential purchase.\n\nWe share your goal of a Turkey that is rooted to the West, but we will not achieve that goal if the Erdogan government escapes accountability for violating U.S. law and the standards of the NATO alliance.\n\nWe request a formal notification of any Turkish LOR, the specifics of such an LOR, the Administration's position on such an LOR, and responses to our specific objections. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter, and we look forward to your response.\n\nSincerely,\n\n[1] \"Turkey's Erdogan Says U.S. Proposed F-16 Sales in Return for Its F-35 Investment.\" Reuters, 17 Oct. 2021. (https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/turkeys-erdogan-says-us-proposed-f-16-sales-return-its-f-35-investment-2021-10-17/).\n\n[2] Bekdil, Burak. \"Turkey: US proposed to sell it F-16 fighters.\" DefenseNews, 17 Oct. 2021. (https://www.defensenews.com/air/2021/10/17/turkey-us-proposed-to-sell-it-f-16-fighters/).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-wasserman-schultz-hold-florida-delegation-meeting-water-quality", "Buchanan, Wasserman Schultz Hold Florida Delegation Meeting on Water Quality", "2021-11-02", "2021", "2021-11", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Vern Buchanan", "B001260", "buchanan.house.gov", "buchanan", "https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Reps. Vern Buchanan and Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla., today hosted the first official meeting of Florida\u2019s 29-member congressional delegation since February 2020. The bipartisan delegation discussed some of the most pressing water quality issues affecting the Sunshine State, including harmful algal blooms, the Everglades, offshore drilling and wildlife conservation.\n\nBuchanan and Wasserman Schultz were joined by U.S. Reps. Gus Bilirakis, Kathy Castor, Mario Diaz-Balart, Neal Dunn, Lois Frankel, Scott Franklin, Carlos Gimenez, Brian Mast, Stephanie Murphy, John Rutherford, Darren Soto and Michael Waltz.\n\n\u201cFlorida\u2019s oceans and pristine waterways are essential to our state\u2019s economy and way of life,\u201d said Buchanan. \u201cI appreciate our distinguished panelists for their participation and thoughtful insight into water quality issues and for their suggestions about how we can work together as a delegation to combat some of the challenges we\u2019re facing.\u201d\n\nThe members began the meeting with a moment of silence in memory of the late Rep. Alcee Hastings, former co-chair of the Florida delegation with Buchanan. Hastings tragically lost his battle with cancer earlier this year.\n\n[[{\"fid\":\"1286\",\"view_mode\":\"teaser\",\"fields\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-teaser\",\"data-delta\":\"1\",\"format\":\"teaser\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false},\"link_text\":\"see more\",\"type\":\"media\",\"field_deltas\":{\"1\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-teaser\",\"data-delta\":\"1\",\"format\":\"teaser\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false}},\"attributes\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-teaser\",\"data-delta\":\"1\"}}]]\n\nThe Florida delegation heard from a diverse panel of subject matter experts including Dr. Michael P. Crosby, president and CEO of Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota.\n\nBuchanan has worked with Dr. Crosby on water quality issues for many years and personally invited him to speak at today\u2019s meeting. During his testimony, Dr. Crosby stressed the need for a new science-based seagrass restoration project.\n\nSeagrass is the main food source for manatees, which have been dying off at an alarming rate. There is broad consensus among marine biologists and conservationists that the driving force behind the rapidly growing death rate is the degradation of the water quality in manatee habitats, growing levels of water pollution and an increase of harmful algal blooms that kill off seagrass.\n\nThe other panelists at today\u2019s hearing included Colonel James L. Booth, district commander, Jacksonville District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Wesley R. Brooks, director of federal affairs, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP); and Michael Messmer, federal policy manager of Oceana.\n\n\"All of Florida\u2019s Congressional Members appreciate the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Oceana, and Mote Lab for providing key information and updates at today\u2019s delegation meeting,\" said Wasserman Schultz. \"We had a robust discussion on water quality issues that are critical to all Floridians, and it\u2019s clear that we will all continue to work together in a bipartisan fashion on Everglades restoration, water quality, harmful algal blooms, and protection of our coasts from offshore drilling.\u201d\n\nBuchanan asked Mr. Brooks about the recent leak at Piney Point located in his congressional district that required the release of more than 200 million gallons of wastewater into Tampa Bay. Brooks expressed FDEP\u2019s commitment to closing Piney Point permanently.\n\nEarlier this year, Buchanan conducted an aerial inspection of the affected area and received a briefing on the Piney Point crisis.\n\nBuchanan has an extensive record of supporting the preservation of Florida\u2019s waterways, coastlines and wildlife. The U.S. House recently passed a Buchanan measure to transfer $2 million to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to examine the record number of manatee deaths in Florida this year and report to Congress on ways to protect the species.\n\nHe previously secured $8 million for red tide research and backed a proposal signed into law by President Trump to provide more than $100 million to combat harmful algal blooms.\n\nIn July, Buchanan introduced bipartisan legislation to formally designate a 51-mile-long segment of the Little Manatee River beginning at its source in southeastern Hillsborough County flowing downstream to the point at which the river enters Tampa Bay, as a national \u201cscenic\u201d river.\n\nBuchanan has also introduced the Manatee Protection Act, H.R. 4946, to officially upgrade the West Indian manatee from \u201cthreatened\u201d to \u201cendangered\u201d under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). According to Florida\u2019s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), 984 manatees have died since the beginning of the year, shattering the previous record of 830 deaths in all of 2013. The Manatee Protection Act will require the FWS to refocus their attention on manatee population rehabilitation and allows for increased federal resources, including more funding and personnel, to prevent additional manatee deaths.\n\nIn 2019, the U.S. House overwhelmingly approved Buchanan\u2019s measure to study the impact of red tide on human health. Buchanan\u2019s amendment instructs the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to designate $6.25 million to research the long-term health effects of red tide and other harmful algal blooms.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:30:49Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bilirakis-commemorates-oxi-day", "Congressman Bilirakis Commemorates Oxi Day", "2021-10-28", "2021", "2021-10", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "\"Today we celebrate the fact that 81 years ago Greece stood up against the powers of evil by replying \"OXI!\" or \"NO!\" to Fascist subjugation. The Greek people could not idly stand by and allow the evils of Fascism to consume Europe. Greece decided to fight for democracy, liberty, and justice, or otherwise see these treasured virtues\u2014originally fostered in Ancient Greece\u2014extinguished under the darkness of Fascism. As Greek Americans, we remember the bravery of our fellow Greeks and we remain committed to protecting these same values,\" said Congressman Bilirakis. Click here to watch the Congressman's remarks on this important subject.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:24:51Z"], ["https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=204", "Congressman Dunn Fights for Increased Access to T-Cell Immunity Testing and Research", "2021-10-28", "2021", "2021-10", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Neal P. Dunn", "D000628", "dunn.house.gov", "dunn", "https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (Florida-02) recently introduced the COVID-19 Access to Testing and Support for Immune Response Research Act of 2021 (H.R. 5745), a bill that would increase access to T-cell immunity testing.\n\nH.R. 5745 directs the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to coordinate scientific and clinical research related to the cellular immune response to COVID-19. The bill also directs the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to cover T-cell immunity tests.\n\n\u201cWe have overwhelming scientific evidence indicating that prior infection with SARS-CoV-2 does result in substantial immunity. The Biden Administration, CDC, CMS, and NIH have refused to embrace this invaluable evidence and continue to push unnecessary mandates,\u201d said Congressman Dunn. \u201cThis should not be a partisan issue. If we are to truly \u2018follow the science,\u2019 it\u2019s time to acknowledge the evidence and increase access to immunity testing while also continuing to encourage vaccinations among those who do not have natural immunity.\u201d\n\nIn addition to being an advocate for the COVID-19 vaccine, Congressman Dunn has been a strong voice in the fight for recognizing T-cell and infection mediated immunity. Most recently, Congressman Dunn penned a letter to CMS encouraging them to cover T-Cell immunity tests. Additionally, the congressman joined Congressman Daniel Webster (Florida-11) and colleagues in a letter to the White House and CDC urging them to recognize the overwhelming data and evidence that COVID-19 natural immunity confers protection at least equal to that from vaccination.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:24:51Z"], ["https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-seeks-clarity-illegal-immigrants-coming-jacksonville", "Rutherford Seeks Clarity on Illegal Immigrants Coming to Jacksonville", "2021-10-28", "2021", "2021-10", "Republican", "House", "FL", "John H. Rutherford", "R000609", "rutherford.house.gov", "rutherford", "https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman John Rutherford (FL-04) led a letter with 51 congressional colleagues to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. Rutherford is seeking answers regarding chartered flights of illegal immigrants landing in Jacksonville, Florida.\n\nThe full text of the letter is below:\n\n\"Dear Secretary Mayorkas and Secretary Becerra,\n\nWe are deeply concerned by reports of flights with illegal immigrants being flown from the southwest border to communities across the country with no notification. The lack of transparency from the Biden Administration is unacceptable.\n\nSince January, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has encountered 1.5 million migrants at our southwest border. This humanitarian and national security crisis has stretched our immigration system to a breaking point. Border Patrol agents work day and night to process large groups of illegal immigrants crossing our border, and the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) has taken in over 13,000 unaccompanied minors (UAC) every month for the last seven months.\n\nIn this year alone, over 640,000 people have been processed under Title 8 and are awaiting immigration proceedings in the United States, which could take years. As people are relocated from the border to the interior of the country while they await proceedings, the Administration must be transparent with state and local agencies about how many illegal immigrants are being moved into their communities.\n\nWe are closely following recent news reports that the Biden Administration is chartering flights to transport illegal immigrants to New York and Jacksonville, Florida. However, this administration has not confirmed how many of these flights have taken place, who is on these flights, and where they are going. In an effort to better understand the current situation, we ask for your prompt reply to the below questions:\n\n\u00b7 What agencies are moving illegal immigrants from the border to the interior of the country?\n\n\u00b7 What populations are being moved by the federal government (UAC, families, single adults)?\n\n\u00b7 When did these flights begin?\n\n\u00b7 Are these flights ongoing?\n\n\u00b7 How many flights have occurred since January?\n\n\u00b7 How many illegal immigrants have been transported on these flights?\n\n\u00b7 Where are these flights originating and where are they going?\n\n\u00b7 Where are individuals on these flights being relocated to?\n\nIf the federal government is going to move groups of people into communities where they will use local resources, such as schools, transportation, and social services, it is vital that local governments and law enforcement be aware of these populations. For these reasons, we ask for a quick response to these questions.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:24:51Z"], ["https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-announces-us-service-academy-nominees-0/", "Steube Announces U.S. Service Academy Nominees", "2021-10-28", "2021", "2021-10", "Republican", "House", "FL", "W. Gregory Steube", "S001214", "steube.house.gov", "steube", "https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Steube Announces U.S. Service Academy Nominees\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced the following students\u2019 nominations into the four United States Service Academies.\n\n\u201cIt is a true honor to nominate 18 highly talented young Americans to attend our nation\u2019s service academies,\u201d Steube said. \u201cOur community would be lucky to have any of these students representing us in service of our country.\u201d\n\nYou can learn more about the service academy process here.\n\nCharlotte County\n\nCarl Rambo of Charlotte High School \u2013 United States Military Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy\n\nChristian Kreegel of Charlotte High School \u2014 United States Military Academy, United States Naval Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy\n\nIker Perez-Calderon of Lemon Bay High School \u2014 United States Air Force Academy, United States Naval Academy\n\nTravis Hicks of Florida Southwestern High School \u2014 United States Naval Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy\n\nHighlands County\n\nAshley Bible of Sebring High School \u2014 United States Air Force Academy\n\nPolk County\n\nAndrew Gurrero of George Jenkins High School \u2014 United States Naval Academy\n\nAshlyn Schober of Bartow High School \u2014 United States Military Academy, United States Naval Academy\n\nSarasota County\n\nAnya Kratz of Venice High School \u2014 United States Merchant Marine Academy\n\nGavin Edwards of Sarasota Military Academy \u2014 United States Naval Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy\n\nGregory Heenan of Venice High School \u2014 United States Air Force Academy\n\nIsabella Evans of Sarasota Military Academy \u2014 United States Naval Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy\n\nJohn Busha of USAFA Preparatory School \u2014 United States Air Force Academy\n\nJoseph Oliver of Pine View High School \u2014 United States Military Academy\n\nKaytlyn Paul of Venice High School \u2014 United States Air Force Academy, United States Naval Academy\n\nLucca Iacopetti of Venice High School \u2014 United States Air Force Academy, United States Naval Academy\n\nMichael Raney Jr. of Venice High School \u2014 United States Naval Academy\n\nMolly Owens of Pine View High School \u2014 United States Naval Academy\n\nNatalie Hays of Venice High School \u2014 United States Air Force Academy, United States Naval Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:24:51Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-denounces-bidens-self-made-energy-crisis", "Bilirakis Denounces Biden\u2019s Self-Made Energy Crisis", "2021-10-27", "2021", "2021-10", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC:President Biden's radical policies have stymied America's energy independence and created a crisis. The national average price for a gallon of gas has climbed to its highest level since 2014 and is 66% higher than this time last year. Worse yet, home heating costs are projected to rise by as much as 54% for some American households this winter. \"This is not a fluke,\" stated Congressman Gus Bilirakis, \"But rather, a deliberate consequence resulting from the disastrous policies and actions of the Biden Administration.\" On his first day in office, President Biden destroyed 11,000 American jobs by canceling the Keystone Pipeline. He also paused new domestic oil and gas leases, which will cost 1 million American jobs and decrease GDP by $700 billion. These actions put America's energy security at risk, as U.S. oil imports from foreign sources are now expected to increase by 2 million barrels a day. In fact, through 2030, the U.S. is now expected to spend $500 billion more on energy from foreign suppliers. Instead of allowing American companies to increase domestic production and hire more U.S. workers, President Biden has embarrassed the U.S. by pleading with OPEC and Russia to increase global output to ease rising fuel prices. \"The catastrophic path this administration has set us on must be reversed now! America needs to once again be in the driver's seat when it comes to our energy production. Just one year ago when fuel prices were the lowest they'd been in years, we were a net exporter of energy. The greatest nation on the face of the earth should never have to rely on Saudi Arabia or other nations hostile to us. We can unleash American energy, create American jobs, and lower prices at the pump by implementing the pro-growth, common sense polices of the previous administration,\" Bilirakis noted.\n\nInstead of reversing course, Democrats in Congress are now doubling down on these crisis-causing strategies by pushing a multi-trillion dollar spending package, which includes a tax hike on fuel. The \"Heat Your Home Tax\" being advocated by Congressional Democrats is a job-killing provision that could eliminate as many as 90,000 American jobs. These plans would also authorize the Environmental Protection Agency to assess a $1,500 tax per ton of methane emissions on energy producers, processors, transmission, storage, import/export, and pipelines. \u2018These actions further jeopardize our nation's energy security and will increase costs for consumers. This is a self-made crisis hurting American families and it is time to stop the pain,\" Congressman Bilirakis warned on the House Floor. To listen to the full speech by Congressman Bilirakis, click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:24:51Z"], ["https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-stands-up-for-second-amendment-opposes-red-flag-laws/", "Steube Stands Up for Second Amendment, Opposes Red Flag Laws", "2021-10-27", "2021", "2021-10", "Republican", "House", "FL", "W. Gregory Steube", "S001214", "steube.house.gov", "steube", "https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/", "scraper", "Steube Stands Up for Second Amendment, Opposes Red Flag Laws\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today opposed H.R. 2377, the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, in the House Judiciary Committee. This legislation imposes unconstitutional red flag laws, allowing an individual to petition a court to have an individual\u2019s firearms and ammunition confiscated without alleging any criminal activity.\n\n\u201cRed flag laws do nothing to prevent crime, and implementing them unconstitutionally strips law-abiding citizens of their firearms,\u201d Steube said. \u201cI will never support any legislation that enables the government to trample on our Second Amendment rights.\u201d\n\nAccording to a 2018 study, \u201cred flag laws had no significant effect on murder, suicide, the number of people killed in mass public shootings, robbery, aggravated assault, or burglary. These laws apparently do not save lives.\u201d\n\nSteube has been a strong defender of the Second Amendment and opposed red flag laws during his time in the Florida legislature. Earlier this Congress, Steube voted against House Democrat\u2019s gun-grabbing bills, H.R. 8 and H.R. 1446. H.R. 8 sought to impose unnecessary and redundant background checks that already occur on all gun sales, and H.R. 1446 could allow the FBI to delay firearm transfers indefinitely.\n\nThe full text of the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:24:51Z"], ["https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F197D982-C179-4221-A7B8-BE18C28F0ABE", "Rep. Daniel Webster & Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Communities Prepare for and Respond to Disasters", "2021-10-27", "2021", "2021-10", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Daniel Webster", "W000806", "webster.house.gov", "webster", "https://webster.house.gov/press-releases", "scraper", "Webster & Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Communities Prepare for and Respond to Disasters\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) along with Chair of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Ranking Member Sam Graves (R-MO), and Chair of the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Dina Titus (D-NV) today introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen disaster mitigation and resilience programs administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).\n\nThe Resilient Assistance for Mitigation for Environmentally Resilient Infrastructure and Construction by Americans Act, or Resilient AMERICA Act, will:\n\nReturn unspent funds from the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF), which ensures that these expiring and unspent funds will still help our communities prepare for and respond to disasters.\n\nDouble the funding stream dedicated to FEMA's Pre-Disaster Mitigation program.\n\nExtend eligibility for Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) to include private non-profits (PNPs), which ultimately will reduce the impact and damage from a disaster.\n\nExpand the reach of the post-disaster Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) to prevent utility outages in the face of extreme wildfire, wind, tsunami, and ice events.\n\nFund residential resilience retrofit block grants to states, tribes, and territories to strengthen homes for maximum protection and safety.\n\n\"Florida is no stranger to natural disasters. Our communities face unique challenges when it comes to mitigation and maintaining resilient infrastructure. The Resilient AMERICA Act builds upon reforms and lessons learned to ensure smarter funding for pre-disaster mitigation. By investing in common sense mitigation activities, this bill will save taxpayer money, protect our communities by proactively mitigating risk, and saving lives,\" Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Subcommittee Ranking Member Webster said. \"Studies have repeatedly shown for each dollar of mitigation investment, disaster costs can be reduced by as much as $11. The status quo is not working, and it's past time to flip the equation in favor of protection and savings. This bill is a big step in the right direction to achieve that goal.\"\n\n\"It's abundantly clear that climate change is making extreme weather more intense and severe. The federal government needs to be prepared and able to lend a helping hand to communities trying to bounce back,\" Chair DeFazio said. \"This bipartisan legislation will help make sure communities across Oregon, and throughout the country, have the resources and support they need to recover and be better prepared for the next time disaster strikes.\"\n\n\"In North Missouri, we've witnessed major flooding displace families, ruin homes, and destroy acres of farmland. Natural disasters don't just require a swift and targeted response, but also thoughtful preparation to ensure we save lives and stop devastation,\" Ranking Member Sam Graves said. \"The Resilient AMERICA Act improves federal mitigation efforts that will help limit the severity of damage when disaster strikes.\"\n\n\"Accelerating climate change is making disasters like wildfires, storms, and flash floods more dangerous and more expensive. This year has already produced eighteen separate climate and weather disasters costing $1 billion.\" Subcommittee Chair Titus said. \"The Resilient America Act will invest in pre-disaster mitigation efforts and climate resiliency which will protect communities and save taxpayers money by reducing the amount of damage after a disaster strikes.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:24:51Z"], ["https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-fighting-protect-students-first-amendment-rights", "Bilirakis Fighting to Protect Students\u2019 First Amendment Rights", "2021-10-26", "2021", "2021-10", "Republican", "House", "FL", "Gus M. Bilirakis", "B001257", "bilirakis.house.gov", "bilirakis", "https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC: Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) is proud to join his colleagues on the Congressional Campus Free Speech Caucus by becoming a member of this important group. Together, the Caucus will work to ensure all students have the freedom to express their points of view without fear of retribution by university leadership, professors, or fellow students. Bilirakis also recently joined several colleagues in cosponsoring H.R. 4007, the Campus Free Speech Restoration Act, which will help ensure that the First Amendment is protected on all university campuses.\n\n\"In Florida, our local school boards and Legislature have worked tirelessly to protect our children from woke progressive indoctrination; however, college campuses have long been a breeding ground for this type of propaganda, and the situation has only gotten worse in recent years,\" said Bilirakis. \"Now, more than ever, it is important that our leaders stand up and protect the fundamental rights protected under the First Amendment.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T20:24:51Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 670, "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": "Republican", "p1": "FL", "p2": "2021"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=FL&year=2021", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 670, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=FL&year=2021", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=FL&year=2021", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 667, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=FL&year=2021&chamber=House", "selected": false}, {"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 3, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=FL&year=2021&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=FL&year=2021", "results": [{"value": "FL", "label": "FL", "count": 670, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&year=2021", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=FL&year=2021", "results": [{"value": "2021", "label": "2021", "count": 670, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=FL", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2021-10-26,https~3A~2F~2Fbilirakis~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fbilirakis-fighting-protect-students-first-amendment-rights", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=FL&year=2021&_next=2021-10-26%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fbilirakis~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fmedia~2Fpress-releases~2Fbilirakis-fighting-protect-students-first-amendment-rights&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 356.8685359787196, "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"}