Press releases
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37 rows where chamber = "Senate", party = "Democrat" and state = "FL" sorted by date descending
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| https://demings.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-demings-supports-new-covid-relief | Rep. Demings Supports New COVID Relief | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Val Demings | D000627 | demings.house.gov | legacy | ORLANDO, FL Today Rep. Demings will vote for new emergency COVID-19 relief legislation for struggling Americans, small businesses and communities. A summary is below. Said Rep. Demings, Today's COVID relief deal is long-overdue and much-needed. Americans are desperate for financial assistance, and hospitals and communities need immediate support. We have been fighting for additional COVID relief since March, only to see it delayed and reduced over and over by the Senate. $600 per American is important, but it won't cover rent or other major expenses. I am voting for this relief in the hopes that it can provide a short-term aid to struggling Americans, but I strongly believe that we must do more, and soon. Since last spring, House Democrats have offered multiple deals and compromises to get more assistance into the bank accounts of struggling families and small businesses. Our efforts have been denied at every turn, and the American people have paid the costs. Even in recent weeks, multiple bipartisan deals were torpedoed by Senate Republicans seeking to undermine President-Elect Biden's work to help our economy recover. It is impossible to justify why our Republican colleagues refused over and over to give help to people in crisis. As we move into the new year, I pray that they will remember why they are here: to help people, especially during times of crisis. Background In addition to the fiscal year 2021 appropriations bills, the spending package contains $900 billion in emergency coronavirus relief to protect the lives and livelihoods of the American people. Among its provisions, the bill provides: Funding to distribute safe vaccines to crush the virus; $13 billion in increased SNAP and child nutrition benefits to help relieve the COVID hunger crisis; A new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child; Extends the eviction moratorium through January 31 and provides $25 billion in rental assistance; A $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work; $82 billion in funding for coll… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402478 | Hastings Fights to Put a Stop to Imminent Offshore Drilling Project | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | (Fort Lauderdale, FL) Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) led a letter to Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Bahamas, Dr. Hubert Alexander Minnis and the Minister of the Environment and Housing, Romauld Sotario Ferreira, expressing opposition to theBahamas Petroleum Company's (BPC) offshore drilling project, the Perseverance No. 1 oil well, off the coast of The Bahamas, a mere 150 miles from South Florida. The letter urges the government of The Bahamas to reconsider allowing the BPC drilling project to continue, given the immediate and long-term impacts an oil spill and carbon emissions have on natural ecosystems, local economies, and the global climate crisis. This letter has been endorsed by Oceana. Joining Hastings in sending the letter include: Representatives Ted Deutch (D-FL), Gerald E. Connolly (D-VA), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Darren Soto (D-FL), Charlie Crist (D-FL), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Lois Frankel (D-FL), Nydia M. Velzquez (D-NY), Francis Rooney (R-FL), A. Donald McEachin (D-VA), Al Lawson (D-FL), Alan Lowenthal (D-CA), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Abigail D. Spanberger (D-VA), David Scott (D-GA), Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D-FL), and Donna E. Shalala (D-FL). (Please find the letter below and attached): December 17, 2020 The Honorable Dr. Hubert Alexander Minnis, ON, M.P. Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas Office of the Prime Minister Sir Cecil Wallace Whitfield Centre Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas The Honorable Romauld Sotario Ferreira Minister of the Environment and Housing Charlotte House, Second Floor Shirley & Charlotte St. Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas Via electronic correspondence. Dear Prime Minister Minnis and Minister Ferreira, We write regarding the Bahamas Petroleum Company's (BPC) offshore drilling project, the Perseverance No. 1 oil well, off the coast of The Bahamas. We believe you should reconsider the agreement established between your government and BPC to protect the beauty and longevity of our fragile and shared ecosystems, the economies… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402479 | Hastings, Lee, McGovern, Frankel, and Deutch Call for an Immediate Boost to Hunger Relief for Struggling Families in COVID Relief Package | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL), along with Representatives Barbara Lee (D-CA), James McGovern (D-MA), Lois Frankel (D-FL), and Ted Deutch (D-FL), led 62 of their colleagues in sending a letter urging House and Senate Leadership to include a funding increase for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other nutritional programs in the upcoming COVID-19 relief package under negotiation. As our nation faces a hunger crisis worsened by the growing toll this pandemic has taken, $5.5 billion in emergency food aid is dwindling despite the increasing number of families struggling to put food on the table. Bolstering federal nutrition programs like SNAP will provide short-term hunger relief, while preventing long-term health and economic harm to our most vulnerable. (Please find the letter below and attached). The letter was endorsed by: Feeding America, Food Research and Action Center (FRAC), MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, Feeding South Florida, California Association of Food Banks, United Way of Palm Beach County, Alameda County Community Food Banks. December 17, 2020 The Honorable Nancy Pelosi Speaker of the House of Representatives H-232, U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. 20515 The Honorable Mitch McConnell Senate Majority Leader S-230, U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. 20510 The Honorable Steny Hoyer House Majority Leader H-107, U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. 20515 The Honorable Chuck Schumer Senate Minority Leader S-221, U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. 20510 The Honorable Kevin McCarthy House Majority Leader H-204, U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader McConnell, Majority Leader Hoyer, Minority Leader Schumer, and Minority Leader McCarthy: As we navigate simultaneous health and economic crises, we respectfully urge you to increase the maximum Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit by 15 percent for all participants as part of future funding and COVID19 relief legislation. D… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://demings.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-demings-media-legislation-passes-house | Rep. Demings Media Legislation Passes House | 2020-12-09 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Val Demings | D000627 | demings.house.gov | legacy | ORLANDO, FL Today, Rep. Demings' resolution calling for increased diversity in American media was passed by the House of Representatives.The resolution is H.Res.549. Co-leading the resolution is Rep. Jenniffer Gonzlez-Coln (R-PR) in the U.S. House, and Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) in the U.S. Senate. Said Rep. Demings, From movies and television, to music and theater, to newspapers and the evening news, we are a stronger country when every story has a chance to shine. Our nation is made great by the people who live in it and the incredible diversity of stories that they bring to the American experience. 50 years after the Kerner Report, America continues to struggle with ongoing disparities in housing, education, justice, and even the ongoing pandemic. Who tells the story matters, because diverse perspectives are necessary to see the whole picture. Only by capturing the full and vibrant spectrum of the American experience can we begin to build a country with true opportunity and justice in all things. I am proud that the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed our resolution, and I thank all of the cosponsors and supporters who helped move this bill forward. As we look towards 2021 and a new Congress and new Administration, I am eager to continue our work to support diversity in media and show the world the remarkable power of different perspectives. Background The resolutionreaffirms Congress' commitment to increasing media diversity. It also pledges Congress to work with media entities and diverse stakeholders to develop common-ground solutions to eliminate barriers to media diversity. The resolution reaffirms that with increasing media experience and sophistication, it is even more important to have minority participation in local media to strengthen social cohesion among different communities and build understanding on important community issues that impact residents' daily lives. The resolution expresses that an informed and engaged electorate is critical to a vibrant dem… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402892 | House Passes Bipartisan Bill to Address Libyan Conflict | 2020-11-19 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed theLibya Stabilization Act, a bipartisan bill introduced byCongressman Ted Deutch(FL-22), Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Middle East, North Africa, and International Terrorism,Ranking Member Joe Wilson(SC-02),Congressman Ted Lieu(CA-33), andCongressman Tom Malinowski(NJ-07). Since April 2019, Libya has increasingly endured foreign intervention in an escalating conflict that undermines U.S. interests and regional stability. The war has provided Russia a foothold in North Africa and influence over Libya's energy industry, undermined NATO solidarity and threatened European security, destabilized Libya and the Eastern Mediterranean more broadly, and exacerbated a humanitarian and migrant crisis. The Libya Stabilization Act sanctions those who deploy mercenaries, support militias, violate the UN arms embargo, and commit human rights violations in Libya. It also calls on the United States to take a more active role in diplomacy to resolve the conflict; to support humanitarian assistance, democratic governance, civil society, and future elections; and to improve Libya's public sector financial management, specifically of the Central Bank and National Oil Corporation, which are flashpoints between the warring parties. "Congress has not lifted its attention from Libya,"Chairman Deutchsaid. "In fact, with this bill's passage, a bipartisan House is notifying all parties to the conflict, including outside actors, of our support for diplomacy and our willingness to use sanctions against obstructive actors that undermine ongoing political talks and refuse to withdraw military arms and forces from Libya. We are committed to work with our partners in Europe, the UN, regional states, and the Libyan people to achieve a comprehensive political solution to finally end the conflict and help rebuild Libya. I call on my colleagues in the Senate to pass this bill and send it to the president's desk." For nearly a decade now, Libya has been beset by civil war fueled by toxic foreign… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402893 | US Representatives Call on Pompeo & Craft to Prioritize the Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen and Warn of Consequences of Houthi Designation | 2020-11-19 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today, U.S. Representatives Ted Deutch (FL-22) and Ro Khanna (CA-17) led a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Kelly Craft calling for the administration to prioritize the worsening humanitarian crisis in Yemen and to support productive measures to expedite needed assistance to the Yemeni people. "Years of civil conflict, together with the devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, have greatly increased the risk of famine and starvation to Yemeni civilians, especially women and children, a problem exacerbated by funding shortfalls in the international humanitarian response." The letter warns of the consequences of designating the Yemeni Houthis as it would likely interrupt the already overstrained humanitarian response and disrupt the precarious UN-led political process in Yemen. As the Members acknowledge, "We have no illusions about the dangerous actions of the Houthis, but a blanket designation will dramatically increase risks associated with transferring humanitarian funds to Yemen." Specifically, the Members urge the Trump Administration to: Restore the $73 million in U.S. humanitarian assistance suspended in March. Call on donors to make up the estimated $1.77 billion deficit of the U.N. Humanitarian Appeal for Yemen fund. Push Saudi Arabia and other countries to end the restriction on commercial and humanitarian shipments in and out of Yemen. Work with the international community to press the Houthis to end the obstruction of aid and humanitarian assistance delivery. The letter was co-signed by U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ted Lieu (CA-33), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Debbie Dingell (MI-12), and Tom Malinowski (NJ-07). The letter is supported by the organizations Win Without War and the Friends Committee on National Legislation. The text of the letter is below. Click here for a signed PDF version. Dear Secretary Pompeo and Ambassador Craft, We write to express grave concern about … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402476 | Hastings, Hudson Mark the 25th World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims | 2020-11-17 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) and Congressman Richard Hudson (R-NC), Co-Chairs of the International Road Safety Caucus issued the following statement marking the 25th World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, which took place on Sunday, November 15, 2020: On the 25th World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, we remember all of the people killed and seriously injured on the roads, thank first responders for their bravery, and re-dedicate ourselves to the task of preventing these tragedies. As Co-Chairs of the Global Road Safety Caucus, Congressman Hudson and I call on our colleagues in the United States Congress, Executive Branch agencies, and every community in America to remember, support, and act to prevent these avoidable tragedies and save lives, said Hastings. As Co-Chair of the Global Road Safety Caucus in Congress, I join with my colleague Congressman Hastings to recognize the 25th World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. We must continue to promote safety practices and make improvements to our roads and infrastructure to protect people and families, said Hudson. BACKGROUND: The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, was initiated in 1995 as the European Day of Remembrance and quickly spread around the globe. In 2005 the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 60/2, recognizing November 15th as the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. This year, the stated goals of World Day of Remembrance 2020 include remembering all people killed and seriously injured on the roads; acknowledging the crucial work of the emergency services; advocating for better support to road traffic victims and their families; and promote evidence-based actions to prevent and eventually stop further road traffic deaths and injuries. In September 2020, the United Nations passed a resolution declaring the years 2021 to 2030 a new Decade of Action for Road Safety. Additionally, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3.6 includes a call to address the pe… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402889 | House Passes Bipartisan Bill to Protect Seniors from Scams | 2020-11-17 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Seniors Fraud Prevention Act, legislation introduced by U.S. Representatives Ted Deutch (D-FL), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), and Peter Welch (D-VT) and U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Susan Collins (R-ME) in the Senate. The Seniors Fraud Prevention Act was incorporated as Title II of Stop Senior Scams Act (H.R. 2610). One in twenty seniors in the U.S. is a target of fraud schemes, costing them at least $36.5 billion per year. Yet, the National Adult Protective Services Association has found that only 1 in 44 seniors actually report that they are victims of a fraud scheme. The Seniors Fraud Prevention Act would help protect seniors and their families from becoming the victims of fraudulent schemes designed to steal their assets. The legislation would create an office within the Federal Trade Commission charged with tracking scams, educating and alerting seniors to new scams, and establishing a more effective complaint system to ensure reports of fraud are quickly addressed by the appropriate law enforcement agency. Congressman Ted Deutch: "Scams targeting seniors are becoming increasingly sophisticated and deceptive. To protect our seniors, many of whom live on fixed incomes and could lose a life's worth of savings, we need a stronger response in tracking, targeting, and warning against new scams. I hope the Senate will move quickly on this bill that could help seniors protect their assets." Congressman Vern Buchanan: Scams targeting the elderly are growing at a disturbing rate and need to be addressed by Congress. I'm pleased the House has passed our bill and hope it will be signed into law before the end of the year. Passing this bill would be a big step forward to protecting seniors andcombating fraud. Congressman Peter Welch: Every day, in Vermont and across this country, vulnerable seniors are being ripped off by scam artists. It's not uncommon for their victims to lose their life's savings. I am pleased that the House has passed this important bill and … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402890 | Rep. Deutch Applauds FAA Plan to Alter Routes at FLL Airport to Reduce Noise in Local Communities | 2020-11-17 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) released its final Environmental Assessment report on the South-Central Florida Metroplex, which includes a plan to extend airplane take-off and landing routes at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). This move will alleviate frequent noise issues experienced by residents in the communities surrounding the airport. U.S. Representative Ted Deutch (FL-22), who represents the Fort Lauderdale community surrounding the airport, issued this statement: "This is a really big deal for the families around the airport who have suffered from the loud, frequent noise coming from low-flying airplanes. For years I have met with these residents and business owners, heard their concerns, and pushed the FAA to make these simple, noise-reducing changes. "This achievement is thanks to the hard work of many in the community who have spoken out and made us aware of these challenges. We're also grateful for the efforts of the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport team and state and local elected officials, particularly the leadership of Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner Ben Sorensen. Thank you also to the FAA for listening to our community and responding to their concerns. "When air traffic returns to pre-pandemic levels, I'm pleased to know that the pre-pandemic noise levels will not return with it." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402475 | Hastings Statement Commemorating Veterans Day | 2020-11-11 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | (Fort Lauderdale, FL) Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement in recognition of Veterans Day: This Veterans Day, I would like to thank each and every veteran in South Florida and across our nation for serving with bravery, selflessness, and distinction. Let us honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our nation and values. Today and everyday, it is important to not only salute our Veterans, but also fight for them as fiercely as they fight for us. This is why I recently introduced H.R. 8690 the Armed Forces Tax Deferred Relief Act to protect our servicemembers' pay. As a result of President Trump's reckless Social Security Tax deferral, servicemembers would be forced to pay double their Social Security tax withholding in the first four months of 2021. The State of Florida has the third highest veteran population in the nation. I proudly represent more than 25,000 veterans in Florida's 20th Congressional District. We owe our veterans a debt of gratitude. This is why I will always be a vocal advocate for the needs of the veteran community. To the veterans in my district and across our nation, happy Veterans Day and thank you for your service. Hastings introduced H.R. 8690 the Armed Forces Deferred Tax Relief Act on October 27, 2020 to protect servicemembers' paychecks from President Trump's politically motivated Social Security tax deferral, as detailed in the Presidential Memorandum he issued on August 8, 2020. The billdirects the Secretary of Defense to compensate members of the Armed Forces for certain taxes deferred pursuant to Internal Revenue Service Notice 2020-65. If such deferred taxes are withheld by the Secretary of Defense during the period beginning on January 1, 2021 and end by April 30, 2021, the Secretary shall make a payment to such a member in an amount equal to the deferred tax withheld. Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as the Vice Chairman of the House Rules Committee, Chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Dean and Co-… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402888 | Inter-Parliamentary Task Force on Online Antisemitism Holds First Briefing with US, Canadian, and Australian Community Groups | 2020-11-10 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | On Tuesday, November 10, the Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism held its first virtual briefing with community organizations from the United States, Canada, and Australia. The briefing covered the state of online antisemitism, how community groups are responding, and provided recommendations for what actions legislators should take to address the issue. It will be followed by a subsequent briefing with community organizations from Israel and the UK at the end of November. The event included presentations from the American Jewish Committee (Holly R. Huffnagle, US Director for Combatting Antisemitism) the Simon Wiesenthal Center (Rabbi Abraham Cooper, Director Global Social Action Agenda), the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (Richard Marceau, VP of External Affairs and General Counsel), B'nai Brith Canada (Michael Mostyn, CEO), Canadian Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (Jamie Kirzner-Roberts, Policy Director), Executive Council of Australian Jewry (Alex Ryvchin, Co-CEO), Community Security Group (Justin Kagan, CEO), and Online Hate Prevention Institute (Dr. Andre Oboler, CEO). The organizations encouraged social media platforms to adopt a standard of what antisemitism is; called for reforming Section 230 in the United States; demanded accountability of the platforms and personal accountability of their local executives; and highlighted the need to address antisemitism in encrypted networks and alt-tech social networking platforms. Launched in September 2020, the Task Force is focused on increasing awareness of and developing responses to growing online antisemitism. It is comprised of bipartisan legislators and parliamentarians from Israel, the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Rep. Ted Deutch (US, Democratic): The strength of this historic task force comes from our geographic and political diversity. Together, we will build a global coalition to bring awareness to and combat the spread of antisemitism online. MK Michal Cotler-Wunsh (Israel, Blue and Whit… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402474 | Hastings Statement on Election of President-Elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris | 2020-11-07 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | (Fort Lauderdale, FL) Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement on the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris: On the heels of one of the most tumultuous periods in recent history, the victory of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris symbolizes the unity, diversity, and resilience of the American people, despite the hardships our nation has endured over the past four years. I join the millions of Americans in celebrating Joe Biden and Kamala Harris on their victory and stand ready to work side by side with them on a transformative legislative agenda to get our nation back on track. I am so elated by the glass ceiling that has been shattered by Kamala Harris, who has made history as the first female, first Black, and first South Asian American Vice President-elect. She has undoubtedly paved the way for women of color to make a difference for our nation for generations to come. Over the past four years, Donald Trump has inflicted real harm upon our democracy, our planet, and the health and well-being of the American people. This year has brought with it extreme adversity, including a deadly pandemic, a stalled economy, in addition to renewed national calls for racial justice. It is our duty to come together to deliver pandemic relief, restart our economy, mend our democracy, tackle climate change, and heal our nation. In the 117th Congress and under the incoming Biden Administration, we have the opportunity to come together to deliver a better future for all Americans. The 2020 election represents a resounding mandate for change, and I stand ready to work with the new Administration, my colleagues in the House, and all who wish to join me from either side of the aisle, to deliver that change. Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Vice-Chairman of the House Rules Committee, Chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://wilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wilson-roberts-statement-on-reports-of-social-media-disinformation | Wilson, Roberts Statement on Reports of Social Media Disinformation | 2020-11-06 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Frederica Wilson | W000808 | wilson.house.gov | legacy | Miami, FLToday,Congresswoman Wilson and Miami-Dade NAACP president Ruban Roberts issued the following statementabout reports of false information circulating on social media warning of planned racially motivated attacks. We are deeply alarmed by reports of disinformation being spread on social media warning of planned racially motivated violence to take place this weekend. This information is reportedly being falsely presented as an official statement by the NAACP. We urge everyone in District 24 and anyone who has received these messages to remain calm and vigilant. In the wake of the still-undecided presidential election, there may be more disinformation on social media and other platforms. Please do not react in a way that may put you in harm's way and always verify questionable information and ensure that it is coming from a reputable source. For information about the reported false messages circulating on social media, please contact Miami-Dade NAACP president Ruban Roberts by email at miamidadecommunications@gmail.com or call 1-877-NAACP-09. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402473 | Hastings Introduces Legislation to Protect Our Servicemembers | 2020-10-27 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | Hastings Introduces Legislation to Protect Our Servicemembers f t # e Ft. Lauderdale, FL, October 27, 2020 (Ft. Lauderdale, FL) Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) introduced, theArmed Forces Deferred Tax Relief Act to protect servicemembers' paychecks from President Trump's politically motivated Social Security tax deferral, as detailed in the Presidential Memorandum he issued on August 8, 2020. Members of the Armed Forces were forced to participate in the deferral, resulting in a large tax bill coming due between January and April of 2021. This bill will require the Secretary of Defense to reimburse servicemembers for any addition taxes they will face in 2021. As a result of this rogue Presidential action, servicemembers' Social Security Income Tax Withholding will double during the first four months of 2021, rising from 6.2% to 12.4%. (Please find a copy of the legislation attached): Active Duty servicemembers' have selflessly put their lives on the line every day to protect our freedoms, said Hastings. This legislation will not only show our gratitude to them, but it will also correct a reckless endeavor by President Trump to use these brave men and women as political pawns in his reelection bid. BILL SUMMARY: The Armed Forces Deferred Tax Relief Act is to direct the Secretary of Defense to compensate members of the Armed Forces for certain taxes deferred pursuant to Internal Revenue Service Notice 2020-65. If such deferred taxes are withheld by the Secretary of Defense during the period beginning on January 1, 2021 and end by April 30, 2021, the Secretary shall make a payment to such a member in an amount equal to the deferred tax withheld. Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Vice-Chairman of the House Rules Committee, Chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402471 | Hastings Statement Judge Amy Coney Barretts Confirmation to the Supreme Court | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | (Ft. Lauderdale, FL) Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement on the confirmation of Supreme Court Justice nominee Amy Coney Barrett: At a time when the coronavirus continues to surge across our country, having infected over 8,500,000 Americans, caused the deaths of over 228,000 Americans, and decimated our economy, Senator McConnell has prioritized partisan politics in the United States Senate by rushing the confirmation of a person who will destroy health care for millions of Americans when they need it most. The Republican-led Senate has treated confirmation processes, including today's vote, as sport rather than with the solemnity, dignity, and thoughtfulness such monumental decisions rightly deserve. Today's confirmation will go down in history as an egregious abuse of power and all those associated with perpetuating this fraud will be judged accordingly. I look forward to the day when the Senate is led by people who value the rule of law and who are worthy of the tremendous responsibility placed upon their respective shoulders. Until then, I pray for our nation and my fellow citizens. Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Vice-Chairman of the House Rules Committee, Chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402882 | Rep. Deutch Statement on Reports that Trump Admin. Plans to Label NGOs as Antisemitic | 2020-10-23 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Representative Ted Deutch (FL-22), founding co-chair of the House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism and a founding member of the Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism, issued this statement on reports that the Trump Administration intends to label Amnesty International, OxFam, and Human Rights Watch as antisemitic organizations: "Reports that the State Department may cut off cooperation with Amnesty International, OxFam and Human Rights Watch are a continuation of this Administration's sorry withdrawal from international leadership on human rights and humanitarian assistance throughout the world. "Upholding human rights and addressing humanitarian needs have traditionally helped to guide our foreign policy, and these groups, together with many other NGOs, have a long history of partnering with the United States to help advance thesevalues. "The United States should seek to promote the work of NGOs and civil society actors who help us address abuses by authoritarian, nondemocratic governments around the world. Misapplying the IHRA definition of antisemitism to politicize antisemitism and retreat from our historic defense of human rights throughout the world would weaken our ability to promote democracy and free speech, strengthen the rights of women, and prevent crimes against humanity. It would also damage our ability to fight antisemitism. "Legitimate differences with any organization should never be swept aside, but we should use the IHRA definition the way it is intended - to help identify antisemitism so we can act to stop it, not to take action which would weaken vital efforts to stand up to autocrats who do not share our commitment to human rights." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402883 | Bipartisan Reps. Call for Expedited Uyghur Visa & Refugee Processing, Greater Action to Protect Population from Chinese Persecution | 2020-10-23 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today, House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East, North Africa, and International Terrorism Chairman Ted Deutch (D-FL) and Ranking Member Joe Wilson (R-SC) led a bipartisan letter of 31 Members of Congress to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Acting U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Chad Wolf urging greater action to protect Uyghurs at heightened risk from persecution by the government of China. Specifically, the Members call on the secretaries to expedite visa applications and consideration of P-1 refugee referrals, to raise overall refugee limits, and to protect Uyghurs already in the United States. At the hand of the Chinese government, the Uyghur population is "at risk of coercive population control, forced labor, arbitrary detention in internment camps, torture, physical and sexual abuse, mass surveillance, family separation, and repression of cultural and religious expression around the world." Stressing the urgency of the issue, the letter advises the secretaries to "consider the lessons of history when U.S. policymakers failed to do everything in their power to assist refugees and those facing persecution, state oppression, and concentration camps." These measures "would represent a continuation of the best traditions of U.S. foreign policy and humanitarianism and uphold America's image as a beacon of refuge, hope, and liberty to millions worldwide." The text of the letter is below. Click here for a PDF copy of the letter. The letter was co-signed by U.S. Representatives Andy Levin (D-MI), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Jim Costa (D-CA), Donna Shalala (D-FL), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Ro Khanna (D-CA), David Trone (D-MD), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Alcee Hastings (D-FL), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Kathleen Rice (D-NY), Albio Sires (D-NJ), Veronica Escobar (D-TX), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Ami Bera (D-CA), Colin Allred (D-TX), Brad Sherman (D-CA), Karen Bass (D-CA), Tom Malinowski (D-NJ), David… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://demings.house.gov/media/press-releases/murphy-demings-soto-applaud-nearly-4-million-federal-funding-hire-law | Demings, Murphy, Soto Applaud Nearly $4 Million in Federal Funding to Hire Law Enforcement Officers in Central Florida | 2020-10-22 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Val Demings | D000627 | demings.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTONU.S. Reps. Val Demings, Stephanie Murphy, and Darren Soto todayapplauded news that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has awarded nearly $4 million to law enforcement agencies in Central Florida to help keep families safe. The funding is provided through the DOJ's Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant program, which helps state and local law enforcement agencies reduce crime by supporting community policing strategies and allowing them to hire more uniformed officers. The program will award $2.5 million to the Orange County Sheriff's Office to hire 20 officers and $1.25 million for the City of Orlando to hire 10 officers. As public servants, we have an obligation to provide safe neighborhoods for all persons. As a former OPD chief, I saw a simple equation: to have safe communities, we need to devote resources to protect them, said Demings. Law enforcement agencies must have staffing and resources to put law enforcement officers where they're needed most. This federal grant, which will fund 30 new police officers in our community, is an important step to ensure that every neighborhood in Central Florida is safer. We owe our law enforcement officers a debt of gratitude for putting their lives on the line to protect us. That's why I've fought to ensure federal programs that support good and hardworking law enforcement officers receive the funding they need to keep Central Florida safe,said Murphy.I'm particularly proud to have backed this successful grant application so that Central Florida can hire and train 30 new police officers who will be focused on building stronger ties to groups within our community and prioritize de-escalation techniques. I'll continue to support the brave men and women whose job it is to protect and serve all Central Floridians. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402884 | Deutch, Meng, and Boyle Lead Letter Raising Concerns with US Position in Supreme Court Case Regarding Holocaust-Era Artwork Restitution | 2020-10-21 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Representatives Ted Deutch (FL-22), Grace Meng (NY-06), and Brendan Boyle (PA-02) led a letter to U.S. Acting Solicitor General Jeffrey Wall urging him to amend the United States' position in the U.S. Supreme Court case of Federal Republic of Germany v. Alan Philipp, et al. The correspondence argues that the Acting Solicitor General's brief fails to incorporate bipartisan Congressional action and understanding of the Holocaust, including when the genocide began, and what counts as permissible under expropriation. The letter was co-signed by U.S. Representatives Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Brad Schneider (IL-10), and Max Rose (NY-11). Congress has acted on multiple occasions to provide clarity on Holocaust restitution issues, said Congressman Deutch. History cannot be ignored or rewritten, and I hope the Acting Solicitor General will take into consideration longstanding Congressional action and intent. We will continue to support efforts to ease the burden for the recovery of Holocaust-era property. Nazi Germany committed horrendous crimes against its own Jewish citizens and European Jews through outright murder and organized thefts. While we often, and rightfully, focus on the murder of millions of Jews, Germany's economic coercion robbed Jews of the ability to keep property that was rightfully theirs, said Congresswoman Meng. This wasn't some accident; it was intentional when the Nazi's curtailed the rights of Jewish citizens in 1933 and it laid the groundwork for their murderous campaign to kill and steal from the Jews. Congress has passed many lawson a bipartisan basismaking it clear what options Jews have to right those wrongs; the Acting Solicitor General's brief before this case stands with the German government which is in contradiction to past Congressional action and intent. We urge him to amend the brief. Historically, Congress has worked to bring justice to Holocaust survivors and their families, said Congressman Boyle. While progress has been made in reuniting many of these works of a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402470 | Hastings and Buchanan Lead Effort to Establish the National Center for Alternatives to Animals in Research and Testing Under NIH | 2020-10-20 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) Representatives Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) and Vern Buchanan (R-FL) introduced a bipartisan bill, the Humane Research and Testing Act of 2020, to establish the National Center for Alternatives to Animals in Research and Testing (Center) under the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The Center will be dedicated to increasing transparency and understanding regarding the use of animals in medical research and testing to ultimately reduce the number of animals utilized in such practices. The bill would allow the NIH to develop, fund, and execute a plan to record an accurate account of animals used in testing and research and to incentivize the use of non-animal methods by educating and training scientists to utilize alternative human relevant methods. Joining Hastings and Buchanan as original co-sponsors include: Representatives Sanford Bishop (D-GA) and Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ). (Please find a copy of the legislation attached): As science and medicine advance, we have a better understanding of the relevancy and benefits of animal-based medical research and testing on human health outcomes. We are finding methods that can better predict human results without the needless suffering of animals, said Hastings. This legislation will not just reduce animal testing and research but, will ultimately improve medical treatments for humans as they are developed from beginning to end primarily with test subjects that replicate human biology and physiology. I'm excited to team up once again with my Florida delegation co-chair Rep. Alcee Hastings to introduce this important legislation, Buchanan said. We need to create better, quicker and less expensive treatments for people that don't rely on inhumane testing procedures. Establishing a National Center for Alternatives to Animals in Research and Testing will help advance these goals while also avoiding subjecting animals to cruel and unnecessary experiments. Science has advanced considerably in the 21st century so that research can be performed using non-animal me… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402885 | Reps. Deutch, Mucarsel-Powell, & Castor Release Climate Report Outlining Health Benefits For Florida If US Meets Goals Of The Paris Agreement | 2020-10-20 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today, U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch (FL-22), founding co-chair of the bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus, U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (FL-26),Vice Chair of the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, and U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14), Chair of the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, released a climate report prepared by the House Oversight Committee outlining the health benefits for the state of Florida if the United States meets the goals of the Paris Agreement. The report outlines that in Florida alone, meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement could prevent 101,000 deaths and 40,000 emergency room visits and hospitalizations for cardiovascular and respiratory disease over the next 50 years. The state would avoid more than 23 million lost workdays. Collectively, avoiding these health issues would save Florida over $750 billion. Lives could literally be saved by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We could reduce hospital visits, childhood illnesses, and lost workdays, not to mention the economic benefits across the board. Particularly in the midst of this pandemic, which has more severely impacted people with respiratory health issues, we should be doing all we can to make us healthier and better prepared, said Rep. Deutch. As the world gets hotter, the risk of heat-related or pollutant-related illnesses and deaths increases substantiallyand communities of color are at even higher risk. At all income levels, Hispanic and African American families are significantly more likely than white families to have high rates of exposure to air pollution, water pollution, and toxic chemicals, and to suffer the resulting health effects, said Rep. Mucarsel-Powell. The Republican Senate must pass the Climate Action Now Act to ensure the U.S. remains a part of the Paris Climate Agreement and takes concrete steps to combat these disastrous health consequences of climate change. Climate action can prevent over 100,000 deaths in Florida in the coming decades, said Chair Castor. It can keep people out of the … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402467 | Hastings Introduces the Congress Commission Act | 2020-10-14 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement on introducing the Congress Commission Act, a bill which would establish the bipartisan Congressional Commission to Strengthen Representative Democracy. The Commission would be mandated to analyze the current size of the House of Representatives, examine alternatives to the current method by which Members are elected, and study the impacts of gerrymandering on representation in the People's House. Joining Hastings in introducing the bill include: Representatives Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Seth Moulton (D-MA), Dean Philips (D-MN), and Andr Carson(D-IN). (Please find attached a copy of the bill): As a Representative to almost 810,000 constituents, I value the importance of fostering a more representative body. It has been almost 110 years since the House of Representatives has increased its ranks even though the United States' population has more than tripled in size, said Hastings. We must examine how this institution is constructed today, so that we can make the necessary changes for a more equitable tomorrow. It is not only within the power of Congress to improve itself, but its our responsibility to do so. Such an effort will result in a Congress that better reflects the constituencies, states, and nation we serve. BILL SUMMARY The Congress Commission Act will create the Congressional Commission to Strengthen Representative Democracy, which will analyze the current size of the membership of the House of Representatives, considering the requirements for the institution to carry out its responsibilities in an effective manner as our republic faces growing domestic and international challenges. The Commission will also examine the methods of voting for House Members and the use of gerrymandering in the creation of single-member districts and their impacts on Congressional representation. Furthermore, in determining if reform would make for a more representative body and include more citizens in the electoral p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402468 | Hastings Denounces the Reinstatement of Spanish River High School Principal William Latson | 2020-10-14 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | Hastings Denounces the Reinstatement of Spanish River High School Principal William Latson f t # e Ft. Lauderdale, FL, October 14, 2020 (Ft. Lauderdale, FL.) Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement after the Palm Beach County School Board rehired former Principal of Spanish River High School William Latson, following his denial that the Holocaust was a factual event: The Palm Beach County School Board demonstrated a stunning lack of judgement and ignorance in its decision to reinstate Principal William Latson to the School District of Palm Beach County. For an educator to equivocate on the Holocaust is without question misconduct, deeply offensive, and must never be tolerated. At a time when anti-Semitism in our country exists at record levels and basic knowledge of the Holocaust among young Americans has been found to be profoundly lacking, it is incumbent upon our educators to push back against intolerance not embrace the language of Holocaust deniers. This decision reflects poorly on our community and is an insult to the thousands of Holocaust survivors who have made South Florida their home, the descendants of victims, and the millions of Jews who were murdered during the genocide. Hastings said. Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Vice-Chairman of the House Rules Committee, Chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation. ### f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402464 | Hastings, Wasserman Schultz, and Buchanan Introduce Legislation to Expand Coverage of Breast Reconstruction | 2020-10-13 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | Hastings, Wasserman Schultz, and Buchanan Introduce Legislation to Expand Coverage of Breast Reconstruction f t # e Ft. Lauderdale, FL, October 13, 2020 Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL), along with Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), and Vern Buchanan (R-FL), introduced bipartisan legislation, the Comprehensive Breast Reconstructive Act. Approximately 275,000 Americans are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. With survival rates and surgical options improving, the need for modernized and comprehensive breast reconstructive procedures have increased. The Comprehensive Breast Reconstructive Act requires the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to work with states, as well as update its own National Coverage Determination (NCD) to more closely align Medicare and Medicaid coverage guidelines with the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA) to ensure full coverage of post-mastectomy breast reconstruction procedures. Additionally, it would amend the WHCRA to require coverage of nipple-areolar complex (NAC) tattooing across Medicare, Medicaid, and private/group healthcare providers. NAC is a crucial option for many as the final stage of the post-mastectomy breast reconstruction procedure to provide a more natural and symmetrical appearance, and should be covered for breast cancer patients who choose to undergo it. Joining Hastings, Wasserman Schultz, and Buchanan as original co-sponsors include: Representatives Barbara Lee (D-CA), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Darren Soto (D-FL), and Susan Davis (D-CA). (Please find a copy of the bill attached): Breast cancer diagnosis has been on the rise each year," said Hastings. "With increased cases and the number of those who seek reconstruction surgery. This legislation will be vital in their recovery and relief from a li… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402880 | Rep. Deutch Statement on Facebook's Decision to Prohibit Holocaust Denial | 2020-10-12 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Rep. Deutch Statement on Facebook's Decision to Prohibit Holocaust Denial f t # e Boca Raton, Fla., October 12, 2020 U.S. Representative Ted Deutch (FL-22), founding co-chair of the House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism and a founding member of the Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism, issued this statement after Facebook announced updates to its hate speech policy to "prohibit any content that denies or distorts the Holocaust":"I walked through the Auschwitz Nazi death camp where more than 1 million Jews were tortured, starved, gassed, and slaughtered. I've sat with Survivors who endured the unimaginable horrors of the Holocaust. Telling their stories and learning about the Holocaust is what we must do to ensure it never happens again. "Denying the Holocaust not only disrespects the memory of the 6 million Jews murdered, but corrupts our efforts to prevent atrocities and combat antisemitism in the future. This is a positive and necessary step by Facebook to prevent their platform from serving as a forum for Holocaust deniers and other antisemites." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402460 | Hastings Calls on FL Governor to Extend Waivers for Medicaid, SNAP, and TANF Benefits | 2020-10-06 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | [1] Florida food stamp recipients may see limits to aid return this week. The Tampa Bay Times. Alison Ross. August 31, 2020. Economic Self-Sufficiency ACCESS. Department of Children & Families (DCF) COVID-19 Information. Accessed: September 9, 2020. reported the children do not have enough to eat due to economic difficulties between June 25th and July 7th. The same study cited a 36 percent increase in SNAP beneficiaries in Florida between February and May.[2] Families in Florida that have benefitted from the waiver of requirements and recertifications during the pandemic are the same families that are more likely to lose these benefits due to the reinstatement of restrictions that affect eligibility for these programs. Waiving requirements for basic safety nets like Medicaid, SNAP, and TANF can support those struggling to acquire necessities like nutritious meals, healthcare, and financial stability in a time of great uncertainty. As you know, our state's unemployment as reported by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) for August was 8.4 percent; double the rate of August 2019.[3] Unemployed Floridians from all sectors of our economy face immense uncertainty in the job market, in their ability to access nutritious food, and in their ability to access afford housing. The tourism industry, one of Florida's top economic contributors, illustrates these concerns. VISIT FLORIDA Research estimates a loss of visitors for the first and second quarters of 2020 of 35.2 percent, only receiving 44.8 million visitors, compared to almost 70 million visitors in 2019.[4] In addition to the concerning rates of unemployment now, as well as the uncertainty the future job market holds, far too many Floridians cannot confidently and safely go into work or send their kids to school due to the presence of COVID-19 in their communities. We must continue to thoroughly monitor the spread of COVID-19 and use guidance to develop further plans to protect communities from another spike like the one Floridians experienc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402878 | Deutch Statement on FL Extending Voter Registration Deadline Following Website Crash | 2020-10-06 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Deutch Statement on FL Extending Voter Registration Deadline Following Website Crash f t # e Boca Raton, Fla., October 6, 2020 After Florida Secretary of State Laurel Lee announced an extension of the voter registration deadline due to the website crashing yesterday, U.S. Representative Ted Deutch (FL-22) issued this statement:"The most important thing is that every eligible voter in Florida deserves the full window of time to register. We cannot let a system failure prevent Floridians from exercising their right to vote, and this surge in applications highlights the strong desire among Floridians to make their voices heard. "Next step is to investigate what happened and make sure it doesn't happen again. Florida voters need full faith in our state's ability to execute this election smoothly and efficiently." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://wilson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/florida-congress-members-call-on-desantis-to-further-extend-voter | Florida Congress Members Call on DeSantis to Further Extend Voter Registration Deadline | 2020-10-06 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Frederica Wilson | W000808 | wilson.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC Members of Florida's Congressional delegation called on Gov. Ron DeSantis to further extend a voter registration deadline to midnight Wednesday after heavy traffic crashed the state's online enrollment system Monday, potentially preventing thousands of would-be voters from signing up to cast ballots in next month's presidential election. After rampant reports of a breakdown on the state's registration system spread throughout the day Monday, DeSantis responded to those criticisms by allowing several more hours of registration to occur on Tuesday. However, it's likely many voters were unaware of the last-minute, online extension, or could make quick accommodations to register in person on such short notice. Therefore, an additional day of registration is needed, the federal lawmakers from Florida wrote to DeSantis. Every Florida Democrat in Congress signed the letter requesting the extension. That list included Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Lois Frankel (FL-21), Charlie Crist (FL-13), Val Demings (FL-10), Al Lawson (FL-05), Reps.: Alcee Hastings, (FL-20), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Ted Deutch (FL-22), Stephanie Murphy (FL-07), Darren Soto (FL-09), Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (FL-26), Donna Shalala (FL-27). Read the entire letter below: October 6, 2020 The Honorable Laurel Lee, Secretary of State Florida Department of State R.A. Gray Building 500 South Bronough Street Tallahassee, FL 32399 The Honorable Ron DeSantis Governor of Florida State of Florida The Capitol 400 S. Monroe St. Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001 Dear Governor DeSantis and Secretary Lee, We write to respectfully request that you use your emergency authority to extend Florida's voter registration deadline until 11:59 p.m. on October 7, 2020, in order to accommodate individuals unable to register on Monday due to technical problems with the online registration system. The brief deadline extension that you announced earlier today, on October 6, 2020, is welcome but inadequate: it does not provide enough time to … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402458 | Hastings Leads Florida Democrats Calling on USDA to Stabilize and Fund School Meal Programs Through Fiscal Year 2021 | 2020-10-05 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) recently led a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue and USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) Administrator Pam Miller, calling on them to use the authorities provided to them in H.R.8337, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2021, to extend flexibilities for essential school meal programs that nourish children and to stabilize and bolster the state and local efforts to administer these programs with the funding authorized in the bill through Fiscal Year 2021. The authorities granted to the USDA would impact Florida directly, as Florida's Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) estimates that, due to COVID-19, Florida school lunch providers face $262 million in sale and reimbursement losses. Joining Hastings on the letter include: Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Al Lawson (D-FL) ,Val B. Demings (D-FL), Donna E. Shalala (D-FL), Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Charlie Crist (D-FL), Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D-FL), Lois Frankel (D-FL), and Stephanie Murphy (D-FL). (Please find a copy of the letter below and attached.) As our nation battles a dual pandemic and economic crisis, we must redouble our efforts to ensure our children and their families can access healthy meals preventing the physical, emotional, and mental harm that hunger can bring, said Hastings. Our schools, educators, and administrators are already stretched thin feeding and educating our communities' children and they are in dire need of the relief authorized by Congress. It is imperative that the USDA abide by Congressional intent and help those in need. Millions of American families are struggling with food insecurity worsened by COVID-19, with up to 1 in 5 Floridians expected to face chronic hunger this year. For many children in these working families, school meals are the only meals on which they can rely, said Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried. It's critical that the USDA have the bac… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402876 | Bipartisan, Bicameral Letters Urge HHS to Promote Use of Community Health Workers in COVID-19 Response | 2020-10-01 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today, a bipartisan group of Members of Congress led by U.S. Representatives Ted Deutch (FL-22), Eliot Engel (NY-16), andBrian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) wrote to the Secretary of the Department of Health & Human Services Alex Azar to promote the use of community health workers in local responses to COVID-19. U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) led a companion letter in the Senate.A PDF of the House letter can be accessed here. The full text of the letter is below. A PDF of the Senate letter can be accessed here. Community health workers can help combat coronavirus through public health messaging and contact tracing while also addressing broader social, economic, behavioral, and preventive health needs. Furthermore, expanding the profession can help create economic opportunities for those seeking work, particularly in hard-hit disadvantaged communities. They can also help curb rising health care costs; randomized clinical trials have shown that community health workers can save $4,200 per Medicaid beneficiary. Community health workers are cost-effective workers who can help strengthen the nation's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and contain health care spending. As the Members of Congress explain, "Given their potential to contribute to all aspects of a successful national recovery, we urge you to expand the utilization of community health workers within existing programs at the Department of Health and Human Services to fully leverage their expertise and skills." The letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Deutch, Engel, Fitzpatrick, David Cicilline (RI-01), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Val Demings (FL-10), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Bill Foster (IL-11), Lois Frankel (FL-21), Marcia Fudge (OH-11), John Garamendi (CA-03), Josh Harder (CA-10), Alcee Hastings (FL-20), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18, James McGovern (MA-02), and Jamie Raskin (MD-08). The letter is supported by the following organizations: FamiliesUSA, Penn Center for Community Health Workers, Com… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402877 | House Passes Bipartisan Bill to Protect Seniors with Alzheimer's, Dementia | 2020-10-01 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the Promoting Alzheimer's Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act introduced by U.S. Representatives Ted Deutch (FL-22) and Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14). The legislation directs the U.S. Department of Justice to develop best practices and training materials for assisting professionals law enforcement, firefighters, emergency personnel, social workers, court officials, and medical professionals who encounter and support people living with Alzheimer's and other dementia.This population is particularly vulnerable to scams as their condition makes it more difficult for them to communicate the crimes to law enforcement or to seek life-saving assistance from first responders. Particularly amid the coronavirus pandemic, having best practices will help first responders and other professionals effectively interact with people living with Alzheimer's and other dementia targeted by fraud and in need. "With this vote, a unified House of Representatives voted to support the more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer's and others living with forms of dementia and their families," said Congressman Deutch. "For our loved ones living with this disease, we want the first responders and professionals caring for them to be properly trained in how to interact with them. Whether it's responding to emergency calls or protecting them from predatory scammers, these best practices will help prepare these health and emergency workers to properly respond to and care for them." I am proud that today the House passed the Promoting Alzheimer's Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act, which will equip our nation's first responders and caregivers with best practices to respond to incidents of elder abuse, including financial fraud, physical abuse, and neglect, said Congressman Reschenthaler. Senior citizens suffering from Alzheimer's and dementia are especially vulnerable to exploitation and other harm, and H.R. 6813 will ensure we have the tools to keep these Americans safe. The Alz… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402873 | Announcing the Formation of an Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Anti-Semitism | 2020-09-29 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Over the last several years, there has been an alarming increase in antisemitic incidents across the globe, with many originating online. As social media posts do not stop at international borders, members of the national legislatures of the United States, Australia, Canada, Israel, and the United Kingdom have come together across party lines to launch the Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism. Members of the Task Force include: Congressman Ted Deutch (Democrat, United States), Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (Democrat, United States), Congressman Chris Smith (Republican, United States), Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (Republican, United States), Member of Knesset Michal Cotler-Wunsh (Blue and White, Israel), Member of Parliament Anthony Housefather (Liberal, Canada), Member of Parliament Marty Mortantz (Conservative, Canada), Member of Parliament Josh Burns (Labour, Australia), Member of Parliament Dave Sharma (Liberal, Australia), Member of Parliament Andrew Percy (Conservative, United Kingdom), and Member of Parliament Alex Sobel (Labour and Cooperative, United Kingdom). The launch of the Task Force follows campaigns working to expose online antisemitism, including the #NoSafeSpaceForJewHate campaign that served as a global call to action to combat the virulent antisemitism that goes unaddressed or inadequately addressed on social media platforms. The Task Force has the following goals: Establishing consistent messaging and policy from Parliaments and legislatures around the world in order to hold social media platforms, including Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, and Google, accountable. The adoption and publication of transparent policies related to hate speech. Raising awareness about antisemitism on social media platforms and its consequences in order to acknowledge the tremendous responsibility that comes with the power the platforms hold. Emphasizing that if one minority cannot be protected by hate speech policies, then none can be. Th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402874 | 24 Members of Congress Urge CDC to Publish Data on COVID-19 in Schools | 2020-09-29 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | U.S. Representatives Ted Deutch (FL-22), Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-03), Robin Kelly (IL-02), and Haley Stevens (MI-11) led 20 of their colleagues in a letter to Centers for Disease Control Director Dr. Robert Redfield asking him to begin collecting and publishing COVID-19 data to track the spread of COVID-19 in schools and help researchers develop best safety practices to successfully continue reopening schools for in-person classes.Currently, CDC has not engaged in formal tracking of COVID-19 cases connected to elementary, secondary, or higher education. States, school districts, and individual schools have been left to grapple with difficult issues of data collection and reporting because CDC has failed to lead this core public health responsibility at the national level. As CDC even acknowledges in its report released Monday, Monitoring at the local-level could inform decision-makers about which mitigation strategies are most effective in preventing the spread of COVID-19 in schools and communities. This essential public health function should not be left solely in the hands of local school districts or states. In the letter, the Members of Congress state that "Students, teachers, staff, families, and their broader communities deserve robust access to COVID-19 school data to help them understand the risks of returning to in-person instruction. Additionally, researchers and school administrators should have access to this data to better understand the epidemic's impact in their own regions and to learn from the experiences of schools across the country so they can craft successful safety policies." CDC should immediately begin formal tracking of COVID-19 cases in schools across the country so that every American family has the best information about the threat of this virus in schools and no school community is left in the dark. The lack of data leaves our schools less safe, our mitigation efforts less effective, and our reopening plans delayed. Beyond the safety of America's students, teachers, staff, and communitie… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://demings.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-demings-response-disney-and-other-layoffs | Rep. Demings Response to Disney and Other Layoffs | 2020-09-29 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Val Demings | D000627 | demings.house.gov | legacy | ORLANDO, FL U.S. Rep. Val Demings (FL-10) issued the following statement: Said Rep. Demings: Like so many others over recent months, these layoffs will be devastating for countless people. It's up to all of us to step up and help in every way we can. I urge anyone in the 10th District who needs help with federal services to contact my office. We will be working with government and civic partners to provide as much support as possible to these workers and their families, and to all those who are out of work through no fault of their own. I also once again call on Senator McConnell and Senate Republicans to stop stonewalling and allow a vote on our emergency COVID relief legislation. These layoffs show yet again how desperately that assistance is needed by American households and businesses. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402872 | House Passes Clean Energy Bill with Marine & Hydrokinetic Energy Provisions by Reps. Deutch and Bonamici | 2020-09-24 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Clean Economy Jobs and Innovation Act, a comprehensive clean energy bill that includes provisions on marine and hydrokinetic energy programs from legislation introduced byCongressman Ted Deutch (FL-22) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01).The Clean Economy Jobs and Innovation Act promotes marine energy programs as a clean and cost-effective energy source. Marine energy is generated from waves, tides, and currents in oceans and hydrokinetic water in rivers, lakes, and streams. To promote this alternative energy source, the legislation directs the federal government to accelerate the research, development, and ultimate introduction, of marine energy technology and the infrastructure needed to integrate it into our utility grids. This legislation was developed with the input of Florida Atlantic University's Southeast National Marine Renewable Energy Center, an institution that "seeks to advance the science and technology of recovering energy from the oceans' renewable resources, with special emphasis on those resources available to the southeastern US: initially focusing on ocean currents and offshore thermal resources." "The United States should be leading the world in clean energy investments and innovation," Congressman Deutch said. "To effectively address climate change, we will need to transition away from fossil fuels toward cleaner energy options like marine and hydrokinetic energy. This bill will help leading research centers like Florida Atlantic University's Southeast National Marine Renewable Energy Center better understand how we can harness the significant power generated by waves, currents, and tides as an cheaper and cleaner energy source for our country." We are grateful for Representative Deutch's leadership in the field of marine energy and his continued support of our work to capture clean energy from ocean currents, FAU President John Kelly said. The gulf stream sits right off the coast of FAU's service area, making our university a natura… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402871 | Rep. Deutch, Senators Warren, Booker Demand Information on the Safety of Prisoner Transportation by the U.S. Marshals Service and Contractor 'Prisoner Transportation Services' Amid COVID-19 Pandemic | 2020-09-22 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Congressman Ted Deutch (D-Fla.), sent letters to the United States Marshals Service (USMS) and private prisoner transport firm, Prisoner Transportation Services (PTS), requesting information about the steps USMS and PTS are taking to manage coronavirus spread among individuals in their custody, staff, and the general public, and urging them to immediately implement COVID-19 diagnostic testing of detained individuals before transfers between facilities.Letter to USMS (PDF) | Letter to PTS (PDF) With approximately 61,000 individuals in its custody at any given time, the USMS is responsible for "hous(ing) and transport(ing) all federal prisoners from the time they enter federal custody until they are either acquitted or convicted and delivered to their designated Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) facility." Recent reports suggest that USMS has not instituted the necessary protocols to contain COVID-19, including failing to implement widespread diagnostic testing of detained individuals in its custody. In some cases, detained individuals have not been tested a single time until they reach their destination. As a result, USMS is contributing to the spread of COVID-19 in prisons and communities all across the U.S. "Because USMS holds individuals in federal custody and transports individuals who are sentenced to and from various facilities-which risks spreading the virus to facilities and communities all around the country-the agency has a unique responsibility to take every possible precaution to prevent the further spread of COVID-19," the lawmakers wrote. PTS is one of the largest for-profit prisoner transport companies operating in the U.S., contracting with state and local law enforcement agencies and correctional facilities, and transporting arrestees and prisoners across interstate or intrastate lines. Last year alone, PTS and its subsidiaries transported over 26,000 detained individuals to and from various locations. PTS does not appear … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402456 | Hastings Statement on the Passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg | 2020-09-18 | 2020 | 2020-09 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | (Fort Lauderdale, FL) Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) released the following statement on the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: I join our nation in mourning the devastating loss of Justice Ginsburg. During her nearly three decades of service to our nation's highest court, she was always a steadfast defender of women's rights, civil rights, and equality for all, becoming a trailblazer of justice for so many across our nation. Hercareer of fighting tirelessly so that every American could exercise their constitutional rights will continue to inspire all of us, including the generations to come, to continue to act with the courage, intelligence, morality and wisdom that Justice Ginsburg embodied. We have a responsibility to honor Justice Ginsburg's legacy by carrying forward the values she stood for on the Supreme Court and in our democracy. My heart goes out to the entire Ginsburg family, including her children, Jane and James, and her grandchildren Paul, Clara, Miranda and Abigail, during this time of great sadness and loss. Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Vice-Chairman of the House Rules Committee, Chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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