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Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press

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329 rows where party = "Democrat", state = "FL" and year = 2021 sorted by date descending

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  • House 329
url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403759 U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Announces Historic Federal Emergency Aid Delivered to Tampa Bay Families and Businesses in 2021 2021-12-29 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) announced today a breakdown of federal investments and assistance delivered to the Tampa Bay community: $2.9 billion in Covid19 grants to support small businesses and nonprofits, including $2.7 billion in Paycheck Protection small business loans, $74.6 million in Restaurant Revitalization Fund awards and $46.8 million in Shuttered Venue Operators Grant; A record $1.9 billion in federal grants secured for this Tampa/Hillsborough congressional district to create jobs, invest in education and infrastructure, and support the important work of local partners as Tampa Bay Builds Back Better; A record $3.4 million recovered for veterans, seniors, small businesses and families of this congressional district who were stuck in red tape before requesting assistance from U.S. Rep. Castor; Thanks to the American Rescue Plan and President Biden, Rep. Castor delivered ~$206M in tax cuts for most families with children (per the new expanded Child Tax Credit) which helped 86,000 Tampa area families at a time they needed it most with child care, groceries, diapers and school supplies. “I am enormously proud of my Tampa constituent services team led by Tery Sanchez, my aide since 2002 when we joined forces to serve our neighbors on the Hillsborough County Commission. Team Castor worked tirelessly to cut through red tape and bureaucracy on behalf of families, veterans and neighbors across the Tampa area at a record level in 2021. “The millions of dollars returned to our neighbors in our Tampa area District is a testament to the dedication and level of expertise with which Team Castor tackles complex cases on a daily basis to ensure that veterans receive the benefits they have earned and to guarantee that Social Security and Medicare are delivered on time to our older neighbors. Tampa families are facing unique and time-sensitive issues due to the coronavirus, and my team’s top priority remains serving our neighbors with respect and care.” In FY2021, Florida’s 14th Congressional district in Tampa … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403755 Rep. Castor Statement on MacDill AFB Being Chosen as Preferred Location to Host KC-46 Tanker Aircraft 2021-12-22 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released a statement following a press conference announcing that the Department of the Air Force selected Tampa’s MacDill Air Force Base as the preferred location to host 24 KC-46As, which will replace the base’s 24 KC-135s. The decision was made after conducting site surveys that assessed locations based on factors related to mission, infrastructure capacity, community support, environmental considerations and cost. “I am thrilled that MacDill was chosen to be the new main operating base for 24 KC-46s Pegasus aircraft. The patriotic Tampa Bay community embraces the mission and the outstanding men and women who serve here. Tampa is “tanker town,” and we are thrilled to upgrade our tankers and cement the air mobility mission at MacDill for decades to come,” said Rep. Castor. “MacDill Air Force Base is proud to be chosen to become the next preferred location to host the KC-46 Pegasus. The selection ensures that the 6th Air Refueling Wing will provide next generation aerial refueling support and AirPower for our nation’s defense for decades to come,” said Colonel Benjamin R. Jonsson, Commander, 6th Air Refueling Wing, MacDill Air Force Base. “On behalf of the MacDill Means Mobility Task Force, we are thrilled that the Air Force has chosen MacDill Air Force Base to host the KC-46. Tampa Bay and Florida's unrivalled support for military servicemembers, their families, and our veteran community makes MacDill the perfect home for this new squadron. With a premier location for global power projection and global reach, MacDill is ready for the KC-46,” said Kelly Flannery, President & CEO, South Tampa Chamber of Commerce. The announcement follows years of advocacy from Rep. Castor and local leaders on the placement of these next generation tanker aircraft. In 2012, when MacDill was considered by the Air Force for KC-46 tankers, Rep. Castor led a “MacDill Means Mobility” campaign with local and state leaders to highlight the strengths of the base to national policymakers. Castor convened c… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-meijer-bipartisan-members-congress-write-letter-urging-us-department-state Soto, Meijer, Bipartisan Members of Congress Write Letter Urging US Department of State to Restore Visa Processing Operations 2021-12-22 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Darren Soto S001200 soto.house.gov soto https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper "Limited visa processing capacity and extended wait-times are a legacy of measures taken in the early days of the pandemic that are no longer appropriate or necessary as testing and vaccines become more widely available," wrote the Members. "Furthermore, they disrupt the reopening of American businesses. According to the U.S. Travel Association, international visitor spending in the U.S. dropped by 76% in 2020, leading to the loss of $141 billion and 1.1 million American jobs. As international and domestic travel begin to recover, many travel businesses rely on H-2B and J1 visas to meet short-term and seasonal workforce demands that cannot otherwise be filled. With such a significant portion of U.S. visa processing sites fully or partially closed, travel businesses will not have the international visitors or the temporary workers they need to generate a speedy and robust recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic." "My constituents in Florida's Ninth Congressional District are feeling the negative effects of lowered visa processing operations more than ever," said Congressman Soto. "Whether they're families waiting to reunite with loved ones or small business owners missing employees and customers, this issue is affecting our community greatly and needs to be addressed quickly. I hope the Department of State will consider our proposals, take the necessary steps to shorten wait times, and ease the tension felt by so many people in Central Florida and across the country." "Swift and efficient visa processing is critical to restoring the United States as a top destination for global travelers," said U.S. Travel Association Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy Tori Barnes. "With 60% of U.S. embassies and consulates partially or completely closed for visa processing—and average appointment wait times climbing to more than a year in some locations—a commitment to restoring visa operations and reducing the appointment backlog is necessary to ensure the U.S. inbound travel market will recover more quickly to … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-menendez-introduce-bicameral-resolution-recognize-historical-significance Soto, Menendez Introduce Bicameral Resolution to Recognize the Historical Significance of Roberto Clemente’s Place of Death 2021-12-21 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Darren Soto S001200 soto.house.gov soto https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) and U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) introduced a bicameral resolution which urges the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to recognize the historical significance of Roberto Clemente's place of death near Piñones in Loíza, Puerto Rico, by adding it to the National Register of Historic Places. "In Central Florida, Roberto Clemente's legacy lives on in our renamed streets and schools, in little league field murals, as well as in the morals we teach our children to follow," said Congressman Soto. "Clemente once said, 'Anytime you have an opportunity to make a difference in this world and you don't, then you are wasting your time on Earth.' From his efforts to reform American baseball to his humanitarian work, he demonstrated that he practiced what he preached and dedicated his life to helping others overcome adversity. Though his life was tragically cut short, we will keep fighting to keep his spirit alive." "Roberto Clemente not only made his mark on the game of baseball as a Puerto Rican professional baseball right fielder, but he also left behind a legacy for his advocacy and commitment to the equitable treatment of Latino and Black baseball players," said Senator Menendez. "Clemente's story is a true American story, and that's why I am proud to be leading this resolution in the Senate. It is long overdue for the Interior Department to recognize the historical significance of his humanitarian efforts in his place of death near Piñones in Loíza, Puerto Rico, by adding it to the National Register of Historic Places." Roberto Clemente began playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates of the National League in Major League Baseball in 1955 and went on to play for them for 18 seasons, becoming a baseball legend. Throughout his distinguished career, he won two Major League Baseball World Series Championships in 1960 and 1971, was named World Series Most Valuable Player in 1971, and was an All-Star for 15 seasons from 1960-1967 and from 1969-1972. Clemente also hit the onl… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403754 Rep. Castor Touts Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Announces $2.5B in New Funding for Roads and Bridges Headed to Florida, First Round of Highway Funding Under Bipartisan Infrastructure Law 2021-12-17 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper On Wednesday, Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) updated Tampa Bay area residents on the details of projects and resources made available through the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act during an infrastructure telephone town hall. She also listened to constituent priorities and hosted experts to answer questions on the law. Castor was joined by Emily Feenstra, Managing Director of Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives for the American Society of Civil Engineers and Beth Alden, Executive Director of the Hillsborough Transportation Planning Organization. The telephone town hall can be found here. On Thursday, Rep. Castor and Port Tampa Bay president and CEO Paul Anderson underscored the significance of this investment for Port Tampa Bay – an economic engine that supports over 85,000 jobs annually and has an economic impact of $17.2 billion – and businesses that rely on this important economic engine. The law will help modernize the port, alleviating supply chain bottlenecks, lower costs for families and increase the flow of goods through Tampa Bay. More than many other ports, Port Tampa Bay will provide the bulk construction materials for infrastructure projects across Florida. A video of this event can be found here. Following this event, Rep. Castor announced that the State of Florida will receive $2,510,041,078 in new federal funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to create good-paying jobs for Floridians improving roads and bridges across the state. This is the first round of funding under the five years of federal investment in Florida highways authorized by this new law. “With this new infusion of funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we’re putting Floridians to work rebuilding roads and bridges in Tampa Bay communities,” said Rep. Castor. “These federal dollars are a strong first step toward strengthening our state’s essential infrastructure – and with them, we’ll cut down commute times, help small businesses get goods to market and keep travelers safe on o… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403753 Tampa International Airport to receive $21M early dollars under Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act 2021-12-16 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released the following statement today following the announcement that $21,711,252 in new federal funds under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is headed to Tampa International Airport: “The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will help ensure that Tampa International Airport remains one of the one best airports in the world. Tampa Airport is one of our most important economic engines and the gateway to the dynamic Tampa Bay region. These investments will help build a safer and more sustainable airport while creating jobs and connecting Tampa Bay to the world. “I am thrilled to deliver for our neighbors and businesses and I am more determined than ever to replace the outdated FAA air traffic control tower. Thanks to President Biden, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the FAA for announcing the good news today - a holiday gift for travelers and workers alike.” Tampa International Airport will receive a similar tranche of funding from the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law each year for the next five years, as part of a program for airport development. In addition to these guaranteed funds, Tampa Airport can compete with other airports across the country for grants from an additional $5 billion nationally for terminal and landside improvements. On Nov. 15, President Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which included $15 billion in formula funding to help redevelop airports across the country. Projects that qualify for funding include: improvements to runways and taxiways, terminal development and noise prevention. The law also includes an additional $5 billion nationally for FAA towers and facilities funding, which the FAA will distribute among airports in need. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3379 Reps. Frankel, Bilirakis, Dingell Introduce Bill to Improve Public Health Programs for Older Adults 2021-12-16 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL-21), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), 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. “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.” “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.” “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.” “The last year underscored how important it is for public health agencies to be at the table when it comes to promoting the health of older adults,” said Dr. J. Nadine Gracia, President and CEO of Trust for America’s Health. “While health departments have been critical to the COVID-19 pandemic response when it comes to older adults, their active engagement in addressing many other issues faced by the aging … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3377 Rep. Frankel Statement on the Last Round of Monthly Child Tax Credit Payments Hitting Bank Accounts 2021-12-15 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement as the last disbursement of 2021 Child Tax Credit (CTC) payments hit bank accounts. “I’ve heard from families all across Palm Beach County who tell me how these Child Tax Credit payments allowed them to put food on the table for their children,” said Rep. Frankel. “No parent should be working two jobs and still struggling to keep a roof over their family’s heads. That’s why the expanded Child Tax Credit—which has lifted more than 5 million children out of poverty and delivered over $188 million in assistance to more than 80,000 families in our community—is so critical. It’s time for the Senate to pass the Build Back Better Act so we can continue providing these monthly tax credits and give families the help they need in the new year.” Under President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, Congress increased Child Tax Credit payments up to $3,600 per year per child under 6, and $3,000 per year per child ages 6-17 and provided monthly installments. The Build Back Better Act would extend this increase and the monthly payments through the end of 2022. The bill is currently awaiting action in the Senate. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2766 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Supports Port Everglades Expansion Plans, Supply Chain Relief and Job Creation 2021-12-15 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper **MEDIA ADVISORY for Today, Dec. 15 at 10:15 AM** Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) will join Port Everglades and union officials to discuss how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law stands to help with the local port’s expansion plans, aid in relieving national supply chain issues, and generate quality new local jobs. The Biden Infrastructure Law invests $17 billion in America’s port infrastructure and waterways to address repair and maintenance backlogs, and reduce congestion and emissions near ports and airports, and Port Everglades will be at the forefront of applying for those funds. The new transformational law is part of a broader effort to support the middle class, grow the economy, create good-paying American jobs, and show the American people that good governance works. The legislation not only tackles the nation’s neglected infrastructure needs, but it also confronts supply-chain issues caused by the global pandemic, helping keep everyday costs down for all Americans. Today, Rep. Wasserman Schultz and other officials will discuss these solutions, and how South Florida’s international cruise and cargo hub is a key to unlocking them. WHO: Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) Representatives from: International Longshoremen's Association Local 1526 Port Everglades WHEN: Today, December 15, 2021 Arrive no later than 10:15 a.m. News conference starts at 10:30 a.m. WHERE: Media should meet in the parking lot at the Port Everglades Administration Building 1850 Eller Drive Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3376 Rep. Frankel Announces Nearly $1.4 million to Delray Beach for Hurricane Irma Expenses 2021-12-09 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) announced that Delray Beach will receive $1,395,121 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for protective measures in response to Hurricane Irma. The money will reimburse the city for costs relating to emergency sewage pumping, sandbagging at police stations, safety inspections, supplies and commodities to citizens, and the purchase of generators to supply temporary power to multiple areas citywide. “Four years ago, Hurricane Irma brought flood waters, strong winds, and deadly destruction to our state, and cities like Delray Beach spent millions of dollars to keep their communities safe and recover from the storm,” said Rep. Frankel. “Thankfully, Congress has been able to provide billions in relief to areas like ours, and this new round of funding will help Delray Beach continue to heal and prepare for future hurricane seasons.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403747 Rep. Castor Statement on House Passage of FY22 NDAA 2021-12-07 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released the following statement upon the House’s second passage of the bipartisan FY22 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “Our men and women in uniform risk their lives daily to protect our families, our nation and our interests across the globe. We owe them the support necessary to meet ever-changing national security threats, and that’s why I am pleased that we have a path forward to overcome Senate Republican obstruction of the passage of the NDAA. Republican inaction is costly to our ever-evolving national security missions and leaves the military unable to plan operations effectively and confidently. When Republicans block a pay raise for our troops and fuel economic turmoil, it impacts everyone, businesses large and small and our incredible military families. Doing so as we enter the holiday season simply to score political points is cynical and wrong. “This bipartisan defense bill will bolster our national security and invest in new, innovative technologies to maintain America’s competitive edge over our adversaries including Russia and China. The Senate must do everything in its power to send this bill to President Biden’s desk without delay. “Investments including a 2.7 percent pay raise for our troops and an air purification assessment for base housing and other on-base facilities will better the lives of service members and their families. This follows up on my work to ensure that housing is safe and free from mold and shoddy construction – Congress is committed to continuing to ensure that housing is improved for MacDill families. “This legislation will also help us make progress on some of our climate goals, as we do more to help military installations reach net-zero on energy, water, and waste by 2035. It also takes steps to boost climate resilience across our military installations, to advance military preparedness to the growing threat of wildfire, and to expand long-duration energy storage. “Funding that I championed for Special Operations Forces also i… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3375 Rep. Frankel Statement on the House Passage of the National Defense Authorization Act 2021-12-07 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21), released the following statement after the House passed the 61st consecutive National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2022. This bipartisan, bicameral negotiated bill includes key provisions to strengthen America’s security and meet the needs of our servicemembers. “This National Defense Authorization Act is a big win for our men and women in uniform,” said Rep. Frankel. “This bipartisan bill modernizes our defenses, strengthens our national security, and provides a pay raise for members of the military. It acknowledges the importance of family by improving paid leave and increasing access to child care. It takes the decision to prosecute a sexual assault case out of the chain of command, better protecting survivors and holding perpetrators accountable. This NDAA also includes a historic acknowledgement of the importance of women’s participation in peace and security efforts to advance gender equality around the world.” The National Defense Authorization Act passed the House by a vote of 363 to 70 and will go to the Senate for final approval. For Rep. Frankel’s previous statement on the NDAA, click here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-applauds-environmental-protection-agency-funding-florida-through Soto Applauds Environmental Protection Agency Funding for Florida Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law 2021-12-07 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Darren Soto S001200 soto.house.gov soto https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper KISSIMMEE, FL – Last week, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael S. Regan announced that Florida will receive $275,420,000 from the recently passed Bipartisan Build Back Better Infrastructure Law to protect clean water, upgrade their aging water infrastructure, and address key challenges like lead, excess nutrients in drinking water, and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances contamination. Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) issued the following statement in response to the announcement: "President Joe Biden and Congress are delivering results from Washington, D.C., to our home state of Florida. Through the funding provided by the Environmental Protection Agency, we will have the opportunity to make desperately needed upgrades to our water infrastructure and deliver results to the vulnerable populations who have been historically underserved in our community. My constituents in Florida's Ninth Congressional District are unfortunately too familiar with the dangers posed by unsafe drinking water. In the City of St. Cloud specifically, we have seen multiple issues over the years stemming from aging infrastructure and lack of maintenance. Additionally, toxic "forever chemicals" known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances have been found in our water, air, and soil around Florida, leading to serious health concerns. These conditions are unacceptable and do not live up to the promises made to Americans in the Clean Water Act. Sadly, while 32 Republicans voted "yes," not a single Florida Republican voted for the bill. It is my hope that our state will use these funds to make safe drinking water a reality for every Floridian." Over the following weeks and months, Florida will receive notice of more funds reaching the state as a result of the Bipartisan Build Back Better Infrastructure Law. To view a more detailed breakdown of EPA funds, please click here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403742 Rep. Castor Statement on House Passage of Continuing Resolution 2021-12-02 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper “Today, the House of Representatives passed legislation to fund the government following months of Senate Republican obstruction and inaction. CRs are no way to govern, but today’s vote was necessary to avoid a needless government shutdown – caused by Congressional Republicans - that would harm Floridians and our ongoing economic recovery from Covid19 as Americans return to work in higher numbers and we look forward to the holidays. The Congressional GOP’s refusal to negotiate on a routine annual appropriations adversely impacts our armed forces’ ability to effectively and confidently plan for military operations, and throws a wrench into improving American economy. Today, I wrote Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell underscoring the harm that the GOP Senate’s obstruction will wreak on Florida families and the men and women who serve at MacDill Air Force Base and around the globe. “It is time for Senate Republicans to stop playing politics with the lives of our neighbors, increasing costs on families, and complicating the safety of our nation. Congressional Democrats and President Biden stand ready to work with them to make meaningful investments that create jobs, lower costs on consumers, strengthen our schools, protect our air and water and advance environmental justice, and much more.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3374 Rep. Frankel Statement on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Arguments at U.S. Supreme Court 2021-12-01 2021 2021-12 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement as the Supreme Court began hearing oral arguments for Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, a case that will provide a major test for whether the U.S. Supreme Court will continue to uphold 50 years of precedent defending the constitutional right to abortion. “Everyone deserves the freedom to make personal decisions about their bodies without politicians trying to control them” said Rep. Frankel. “The Mississippi case before the Supreme Court today poses the most direct threat to Roe v. Wade in decades and jeopardizes access to abortion across the country. The personal decision of whether and when to become a parent should be in the hands of people, not politicians. And, regardless of the Court’s action, this is a clarion call for the Senate to follow the House’s lead and pass the Women’s Health Protection Act.” The State of Mississippi explicitly, and repeatedly, asked the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade and rule there is no right to abortion in the United States in its opening brief. If upheld, this law would enable states across the country to ban abortion care, even though the Supreme Court ruled in favor of upholding Roe as recently as 2020 in June Medical Services v Russo. A final decision is not expected until at least the spring of 2022. In September, the House passed the Women’s Health Protection Act to push back on dangerous state laws such as this one. This bill would prohibit states from enacting medically unnecessary restrictions that unfairly target abortion providers and prevent patients from getting the care they need. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403739 U.S. Rep. Castor announces her 2021 nominations to U.S. military academies 2021-11-30 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) announced 26 students representing more than ten local high schools received nominations for admission into our nation’s military academies: Air Force (USAFA), Navy (USNA), Army (USMA) and Merchant Marine (USMMA). “I am proud to nominate a diverse, impressive group of students from the Tampa Bay area to attend our nation’s prestigious service academies,” said Castor. “These dedicated students are the leaders of tomorrow, and I’m grateful for their commitment to serving our nation. “My dedicated Nomination Committee puts in careful thought and time every year to thoroughly review each application and meet with each interested student individually, and I appreciate their important contribution,” Castor continued. “Tampa Bay is a patriotic community, and our committee members are devoted to developing bright young leaders that will shape the future of America’s armed forces and our nation.” Photos of the nominees can be found here. Receiving a nomination to one of our nation’s military academies is an essential step towards receiving an appointment to the academies. Nominations are earned based upon each student’s interview with Castor’s Nomination Committee, their academic record, participation in extracurricular activities and demonstrated leadership qualities. Because of the stringent application requirements, many students begin working on what it takes to apply as early as their first year of high school. Based upon the process established by federal law, all U.S. military academies, except the Coast Guard Academy, require either a service-connected or Congressional nomination (from their member of Congress, U.S. Senator or the Vice President of the United States). Parents and students interested in the nomination process can work with their school guidance counselors and find more information at https://castor.house.gov/constituentservices/serviceacademynominations.htm. Castor will announce official appointments at a later date after being notified of appointments by … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403740 Reps. Castor, Schrier Legislation to Prevent HPV Cancers Passes House 2021-11-30 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Today, U.S. Representatives Kathy Castor (FL14) and Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA08) celebrated House passage of the Promoting Resources to Expand Vaccination, Education and New Treatments for HPV Cancers Act (PREVENT HPV Cancers Act). The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes six types of cancers, which leads to nearly 36,000 cases of cancer each year in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The World Health Organization established a goal last year of total eradication of cervical cancer due to the highly effective HPV vaccine and commitment by countries around the world. HPV vaccinations help prevent cancers and save lives, yet many families remain unaware of the important cancer-preventing vaccine. The aim of the PREVENT HPV Cancers Act is to increase vaccination rates with an eye to populations that lag far behind in vaccination rates. Rep. Castor’s speech on the House Floor can be viewed here. “If Dr. Francis Collins, the head of the NIH, called a press conference today and announced that we had found a cure for cancer, there would be cause for celebration. Well, since 2006, there's been a safe and effective vaccine that prevents six types of cancer, including cervical cancer and throat cancer. It's been a remarkable development, and with today’s passage of the PREVENT HPV Cancers Act, we will equip communities across the country will the tools they need to vaccinate, educate and empower our neighbors to receive these lifesaving vaccinations. According to data from the CDC, more than one million doses of HPV vaccinations were missed last year. This falling off is worrisome, but we can tackle this problem by helping educate families and parents all across America to avoid these catastrophic diagnoses and save lives in doing it. “The PREVENT HPV Cancers Act builds on work the CDC is already doing to raise awareness about gynecologic cancers through Johanna's Law, and includes HPV and HPV-related cancers in a national public awareness campaign to educate providers, parent… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3373 Rep. Frankel Statement on House Passage of Build Back Better Act 2021-11-19 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21), released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the Build Back Better Act. “Today is a historic and exciting day for families across America,” said Rep. Frankel. “Now that this transformational bill has passed the House, we are one step closer to delivering on the President’s promise to Build Back Better. This bill is a once-in-a-generation investment in the care economy, universal pre-K education, paid leave, clean energy, and lower health care costs, all being fully paid for by making sure big corporations & the wealthiest pay their fair share of taxes. I urge the Senate to take up and pass this bill immediately.” The Build Back Better Act will: Lower health care costs by allowing Medicare to negotiate lower drug costs for seniors, halting Big Pharma’s outrageous price hikes above inflation, and expanding the Affordable Care Act to make coverage more affordable for those who buy insurance on their own; Lower child care & family care costs by expanding the basic promise of free schooling in America for the first time in 100 years with universal pre-school for all 3- and 4-year-olds, cutting families’ child care costs, extending the landmark Biden Child Tax Credit, and expanding access to affordable home care for older adults and those with disabilities; Secure the largest investment to combat climate crisis in history by cutting pollution, reducing energy costs, creating good paying jobs with a transformational investment to ensure America leads the clean energy economy, and; Fight inflation, as it is fully paid for by making sure that big corporations and the wealthiest pay their fair share, and ensuring no one making under $400,000 will pay a penny more in taxes. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-votes-pass-historic-build-back-better-act Soto Votes to Pass Historic Build Back Better Act 2021-11-19 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Darren Soto S001200 soto.house.gov soto https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) voted to pass H.R. 5376, the Build Back Better Act. This historic investment in America's future lowers prescription drug prices and caps costs for seniors, extends the Child Tax Credit, creates paid family leave, expands the ACA exchange to nearly one million Floridians, closing the Medicaid gap, boosts affordable housing, includes immigration reform, and works to combat climate change, among other things. During a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives last night, Congressman Soto gave the following remarks: "HEADLINE: Democrats deliver for the American people… again. Democrats deliver for Central Florida… again. Lowering prescription drug prices and capping costs for seniors, extending Child Tax Credit payments, paid family leave, and lower childcare costs for Central Florida families. Providing nearly one million Floridians with an expansion of the ACA, boosting affordable housing, immigration reform, the largest effort to combat climate change in history. And unlike the GOP tax scam that busted the deficit by $400 billion and $4 trillion in debt, we pay for ours with major corporations and the wealthy paying their fair share. The Republicans are doing nothing but divide, the Democrats are delivering for America. I yield back." Click here for a video of his remarks. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2763 Wasserman Schultz Joins Democrats to Pass Historic Build Back Better Legislation 2021-11-19 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) proudly joined her Democratic colleagues in passing the Build Back Better Act (H.R. 5376), historic legislation that will transform the American economy and put the United States on the path towards shared future prosperity. This once-in-a-generation legislation will make immediate and sizable positive impacts on the lives of Florida’s seniors, families and businesses. Listen to the Congresswoman’s floor remarks on this historic legislation: (click on the image above to watch the video) The key BBB provisions that will make life dramatically better for Florida’s families include: • Negotiating lower drug costs for seniors by curbing Big Pharma’s obscene price hikes, and ensure Americans with diabetes don’t pay more than $35 per month for insulin; • Create a new, out-of-pocket cap of $2,000 on what seniors pay for Medicare Part D drugs; • Expand coverage and lower premiums in the ACA Marketplace, and help cover those in the states like Florida that refused to adopt the Medicaid expansion; • Help older Americans access affordable hearing care by expanding Medicare. • Expand free schooling in America with universal pre-school for all 3- and 4-year olds; • Slash child care costs so families pay no more than half what their current spending levels are, and ensure the vast majority pay no more than 7 percent of their income on child care; • Extend the landmark Biden Child Tax Credit, and deliver real financial help to millions of working families every month to pay for the groceries, gas and utilities that parents face; • Expand access to affordable home care for older adults and those with disabilities; • Steers billions in funding into green energy and resiliency programs, including clean vehicle and carbon-reduction efforts, as well as improvements to the energy grid. • Other funding priorities include clean-pipe water programs, broadband expansion and The costs of this legislation are offset by making corporations and the wealthy final… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403736 Rep. Castor Statement on House Passage of the Historic Build Back Better Act 2021-11-18 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper “We made a promise to our neighbors that we would Build Back Better in the wake of the Covid19 pandemic. The past two years have underscored the urgent, tangible needs of Florida families and small business owners – access to quality, affordable health care and child care, good-paying jobs, clean air to breathe and clean water to drink, and affordable housing. Today’s passage of the Build Back Better Act is a historic step towards bolstering our economy and making our government work for all Americans once more. The benefits will be felt across the Tampa Bay area. “This means providing universal, high-quality pre-kindergarten to three- and four-year-olds, expanding affordable health care and lowering costs to millions of Floridians, lowering the costs of prescription drugs, improving Medicare, making the single largest and most comprehensive investment in affordable housing in history, extending the tax cut for most families with children, and much more. While making monumental progress for families and working Americans, the Build Back Better Act lowers costs and fights inflation because it is fully paid for by making big corporations and the wealthiest pay their fair share. No one making under $400,000 will pay a penny more in taxes. “We are aiming to help parents get back to work and bring the United States in line with other nations through paid family and medical leave. No one should have to grapple with the impossible questions that American men and women have been asking for years. Do I quit my job to care for an ailing loved one? Will I have to leave my job to care for my newborn child? Through our plan, all workers will be eligible for up to four weeks of paid leave for new parents, workers dealing with their own serious medical conditions, and workers who need leave to care for a loved one with a serious medical issue. This commonsense provision is long overdue and will help ensure we can keep American workers on the job with comprehensive paid leave policies. “This plan invests in our veterans throu… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3368 Rep. Frankel Votes to Pass 13 Bipartisan Bills to Support Veterans 2021-11-17 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – This week, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after the House passed 13 bipartisan bills that will support veterans. “Service members returning to civilian life should have an opportunity for success,” said Rep. Frankel. “The bills passed this week will expand access for veterans, and their families, to quality education and health care.” As a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Rep. Frankel helped advance many of these bills out of committee before voting for them on the floor. A full list is available here and includes Rep. Frankel’s priorities such as: H.R. 5671, which authorizes the VA to provide seasonal influenza vaccines to all veterans who want one, even if they don’t ordinarily receive care through the VA. H.R. 2433, the Burn Pit Registry Enhancement Act, which strengthens and enhances the VA registry of service members and veterans who were exposed to toxic chemicals and fumes from open-air burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan. H.R. 958, the Protecting Moms Who Served Act, which strengthens the VA’s maternity care programs to ensure veterans receive high-quality maternal health care and support. H.R. 4626, the VA AIM Act, which assesses VA health care services, operations, budget, and delivery to uphold the highest standards for the veterans who rely on them. H.R. 5603, the Protections for Student Veterans Act, which ensures that veterans in every state can continue their education without penalty if they are called to serve. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3369 Rep. Frankel Statement on Dangerous DeSantis Bills Advancing in Florida State Legislature 2021-11-17 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement in response to the steps taken by the Florida State Legislature to advance Governor DeSantis’ dangerous proposals to limit the use of masks and vaccines during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “By ignoring CDC guidance from public health experts and reputable scientists, Governor DeSantis is putting politics over the health and safety of Floridians,” said Rep. Frankel. Earlier this month, Rep. Frankel was joined by colleagues representing Florida, Texas, Georgia, and Arizona to introduce the LOCAL HEALTH Act, to give local governments, agencies, and businesses the freedom to follow CDC guidance—including requiring vaccines or mask mandates—in order to keep workers, students, and the broader community healthy and safe, and combat these dangerous political tactics by Governors like DeSantis. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403735 Rep. Castor Announces $18M Infrastructure Grant for Tampa Heights 2021-11-16 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) announced a major new infrastructure investment in the heart of Tampa. The Florida Department of Transportation received an $18M FY21 Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability & Equity (RAISE) grant from the Biden Administration for the Tampa Heights Mobility Corridor. This funding will assist the City of Tampa in its “complete streets” initiative, while leading to more jobs and boosting local businesses. “This $18M grant is important for the growing, dynamic neighborhoods of Tampa Heights and Seminole Heights. We are connecting Tampa neighborhoods, decreasing vehicle traffic and improving safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. I championed this grant, with Mayor Castor, to lift our neighborhoods, increase equity, create jobs, build mobility, and provide needed revitalization to our streets. We are united in our commitment to Build Back Better for our neighbors, for our environment, and for future generations,” said U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor. “This is huge news for Tampa and our ability to better connect historic neighborhoods just north of downtown and to improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. We’re so grateful to Rep. Kathy Castor for championing the federal funding, which will tangibly improve residents’ quality of life,” said Mayor Jane Castor. The Tampa Heights Mobility Corridor aims to make multimodal safety improvements focusing on creating a community asset that will connect downtown Tampa to the Tampa Heights and Seminole Heights neighborhoods and businesses. This includes widening sidewalks, creating two-way bicycle paths, making a dedicated rapid bus lane between USF and downtown, and more. The RAISE grant was previously known as the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant and the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Discretionary grant. Last year, Rep. Castor announced over $50 million in BUILD grants for the City of Tampa and Hillsborough County. The Tampa Heights Mobility grant is separate… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3365 Rep. Frankel Celebrates Signing of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act 2021-11-15 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after attending President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act signing ceremony at the White House. “The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is a historic win for Florida and for all Americans,” said Rep. Frankel. “I was honored to be in attendance as President Joe Biden signed this legislation into law to create millions of good paying jobs, modernize our bridges, roads, and public transportation systems, and make historic investments in broadband, electric vehicles, green infrastructure and clean drinking water. I look forward to working to pass the rest of the Biden Administration’s Build Back Better Agenda soon.” The bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework: Makes the largest federal investment in public transit ever; Makes the largest federal investment in passenger rail since the creation of Amtrak; Makes the single largest dedicated bridge investment since the construction of the interstate highway system; Makes the largest investment in clean drinking water and waste water infrastructure in American history, delivering clean water to millions of families; Makes high-speed internet accessible to all Americans; Makes the largest investment in clean energy transmission and electric vehicle infrastructure in history; electrifying thousands of school and transit buses across the country; and creating a new Grid Deployment Authority to build a resilient, clean, 21st century electric grid; Includes at least $19 billion for Florida. Click here to see all the ways the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework will impact the nation. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3366 Rep. Frankel Announces Next Round of Payments for Families with Children 2021-11-15 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement as the next payments of the Child Tax Credit hit the bank accounts of families across America. “The Child Tax Credit payments have been life-changing for parents across Palm Beach County and for millions of other parents around the country,” said Rep. Frankel. “In Florida alone, more than two million payments were sent last month, putting money directly in the pockets of working families to help pay for food, child care, school supplies, and more. This is a middle-class tax cut and every eligible parent in Palm Beach County should make sure they are getting these critical payments.” The American Rescue Plan increased the maximum Child Tax Credit for eligible families to $3,600 annually per child ages 0-5, and $3,000 annually per child ages 6-17. This expanded credit is being delivered in monthly installments of up to $300 per child on the 15th of every month, through the end of the calendar year, with a final lump sum of up to $1,800 per child on families’ 2021 tax returns. The Build Back Better Act would extend these increased payments for American families through 2022 and ensure that the families most in need would receive the maximum benefits. Please click here for more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Child Tax Credit. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403734 Statement from U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor in Support of the Cuban People’s Fundamental Rights Ahead of Planned November 15th Peaceful Protests 2021-11-14 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper As Cubans and Cuban Americans gather in peaceful protest, I stand with them in solidarity – for freedom and fundamental human rights in the face of worsening oppression from the communist regime. Autocratic Cuba has failed its people. It is time for the Cuban people to be able to freely choose their leadership and their future, and for a peaceful transfer of power. Cuban citizens must be allowed to demonstrate peacefully for fundamental freedoms. I condemn the Cuban regime’s acts of repression and call for the immediate release of arbitrarily detained Cuban citizens. The Tampa community has been central and supportive of human rights and Cuban independence since the days when freedom fighter Jose Marti rallied cigar workers in Tampa for support for Cuban independence over one hundred years ago. It is no different now. My neighbors are lending their voices and rallying in the streets in support of their families and friends who are in living in desperation on the island. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2760 Wasserman Schultz, Bice Join House Members, Breast Cancer Advocates to Press CDC to Address Decline in COVID-era Screenings 2021-11-12 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington D.C. – Today, U.S Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) and Stephanie Bice (OK-05) and more than forty House Members joined in urging the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to address the pandemic-era decline in routine breast exam screenings and collaborate with Congress to develop solutions to reverse the troubling drop-off in these life-saving procedures. Various public health, economic and advocacy groups have documented that the COVID-19 virus disproportionately affected women. Often, it forced women from the labor force or resulted in them taking on more family and childcare responsibilities as daycares and schools closed for in-person instruction. These responsibilities, along with other health and economic factors, have caused women to forego necessary routine preventative and diagnostic medical testing. “Early detection, more than anything, saves lives. Any decline in breast cancer screenings means more suffering and heartache for the women and families who battle this deadly disease, and tragically dwindling mammography rates means more of them will die,” said Wasserman Schultz. “That is why I am calling on the CDC to pro-actively take action to reverse this drop-off and lessen the emotional, health, and financial toll it will take on millions of women.” “It is critical that we address this alarming decline in breast cancer screenings,” said Bice. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to find solutions to end this life-threatening trend.” The onset of the pandemic saw a drastic drop of more 80 percent in breast cancer screenings, with rates among women of color declining even more. When detected early, breast cancer survival rates are over 95 percent– but when detected in later stages, survival rates can be as low as 66 percent. The Protecting Access to Lifesaving Screening (PALS) Act Coalition members worry that the 84% drop in breast cancer screening due to the pandemic will have a significant impact on early detection. In July, Carolyn Aldigé, Founder and CEO of… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403733 Chair Castor, Committee Members Highlight U.S. Climate Action at COP26, Bolster Speaker's Congressional Delegation 2021-11-09 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Chair Kathy Castor of the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis released the following statement on Tuesday after arriving in Glasgow, Scotland, for the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, alongside Speaker Nancy Pelosi, other members of the Select Committee, and the rest of the Speaker's congressional delegation: “The United States is increasing its commitment to clean energy and climate action - and we are sharing our plan with the world. It's such an honor to attend this historic climate summit alongside Speaker Pelosi, who has cemented her legacy as the most ambitious climate leader in the history of the House of Representatives,” said Chair Castor. “Thanks to the Speaker's leadership and tenacious vision, we are poised to pass nearly a trillion dollars in investments to start solving the climate crisis - the largest single investment in climate and clean energy in our history. And over the next few days, we will proudly join President Biden's team here in Glasgow to show the world that we're ready to partner on solutions and unleash the clean energy economy.” The Select Committee Members on the delegation are: Chair Kathy Castor (D-FL), Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA), Congressman Jared Huffman (D-CA), Congressman Mike Levin (D-CA), Congressman Sean Casten (D-IL), Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO), and Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (D-TX). In Glasgow, the delegation will participate in bilateral meetings, panel discussions and other engagements with global leaders on top climate priorities, including the recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, gender equity and public-private sector coordination on climate action. “The climate crisis is the existential threat of our time, and America must continue to bring our boldest ambitions to the table to meet and beat our climate action goals,” said Speaker Nancy Pelosi. “Together with this outstanding, experienced and diverse de… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3364 Rep. Frankel Response to DeSantis Detailing his Plans for Upcoming Special Session 2021-11-08 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after Governor DeSantis asked the Florida State Legislature to introduce legislation during the upcoming special session to prohibit mask and vaccine mandates for workers and students. “Floridians want to keep their families healthy and safe,” said Rep. Frankel. “The governor should not bully or threaten employers who want to use commonsense recommendations from the CDC to prevent the spread of COVID-19—the main cause of job loss, school closures, illness, and death in this state and across the country over the past 20 months.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403724 Rep. Castor Votes To Pass Transformational Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill 2021-11-06 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14), Chair of the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, released the following statement as the House of Representatives voted to pass the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: “With today’s vote, the House of Representatives has delivered a historic investment in America’s infrastructure,” said Rep. Castor. “Our Tampa Bay neighbors deserve modern and safe infrastructure, especially major investments in transit. Rebuilding our infrastructure is especially important to Florida, where 408 bridges and over 3,564 miles of highway are in poor condition. Since 2011, commute times have increased by 11.6 percent in Florida and on average, each driver pays $425 per year in costs due to driving on roads in need of repair. We are also long overdue for major, climate-forward investments in our public transit systems to ensure that all of our neighbors are able to travel safely and efficiently. To protect what makes the Sunshine State special and grow good-paying jobs in Tampa, we are strengthening the investments that support our economy and build more resilient infrastructure. “With $25 billion allocated for American airports and air traffic controllers, this legislation could help replace the Tampa International Airport air traffic control tower, which is welcome news. The air traffic controllers at TPA are critical to the safety and efficiency of those who travel through our amazing airport and replacing this tower – one of the oldest in the country – will protect travelers and TPA employees. “We are also making the largest investment in clean drinking water and wastewater infrastructure in American history. We must protect Tampa Bay and Gulf communities from sewage spills and contaminated runoff pollution. This bipartisan package will help modernize our local wastewater systems to keep our water clean and safe. Plus Democrats championed replacement of all of the nation’s lead pipes and service lines – an important way to improve public health and create jobs. “This bipartisan … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2759 Wasserman Schultz Votes to Repair Florida’s Crumbling Infrastructure and Advance Historic Health, Child, Climate, Job Building Legislation 2021-11-06 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington D.C. – Last night, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) voted to deliver a historic, bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to President Joe Biden’s desk that will put thousands of Floridians to work and modernize the state’s ailing infrastructure. The Congresswoman also voted to advance the Build Back Better (BBB) Act, which when signed into law, will boldly confront climate change, and make the largest investment in America’s working families and safety net since the New Deal. “Florida’s tourism economy relies on a strong, modern travel network and Democrats sent bold, job-producing legislation to President Biden that will repair our dilapidated water systems and fix our crumbling roads and bridges. The bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will do all that by putting thousands of Floridians to work with union and good-paying jobs,” Wasserman Schultz said. “As for our hard-working families, the Build Back Better Act will help cover health and childcare costs and offer paid family leave, universal pre-k programs and extends a child tax credit, putting more money in the pockets of parents and caretakers. Seniors struggling to pay for home care or prescriptions would see lower costs by allowing Medicare to cover hearing care and begin negotiations for lower drug prices. BBB represents the most significant federal investment to confront climate change in American history, and will produce high-paying, green jobs. The package is fiscally responsible, requiring corporations and the wealthiest Americans to pay their fair share.” Florida has more than 400 bridges and 3,500 highway miles in need of repair. This Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will be swiftly signed into law, and revive Florida’s aging roadways, ports, airports and water systems. Based on federal formulas, Florida can compete for or receive: $13.1 billion for federal-aid highway programs over five years. $245 million for bridge replacement and repairs over five years. A $12.5 billion Bridge Investment P… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3362 Reps. Frankel, Wasserman Schultz, Crist, Deutch, Gallego, Garcia, Johnson, Kirkpatrick, Soto, Veasey Introduce Legislation to Defend Businesses, Local Governments that Implement Commonsense COVID-19 Safety Measures 2021-11-05 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Lois Frankel (FL-21), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), Charlie Crist (FL-13), Ted Deutch (FL-22), Ruben Gallego (AZ-07), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Ann Kirkpatrick (AZ-01), Darren Soto (FL-09), and Marc Veasey (TX-33) introduced the Let Our Cities And Local businesses Help Employees Achieve Long-Term Health Act (LOCAL HEALTH) Act. This bill would protect the ability of local governments, agencies, and private businesses to implement common sense public health and safety measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19. This includes requirements such as social distancing, masks, vaccination, and testing. “We should not just stand by and let Governors put politics over the health and safety of our communities by restricting critical tools like vaccines and masks,” said Rep. Frankel. “Local governments, agencies, and private businesses in our communities that want to follow CDC guidelines should be supported not punished. This bill would protect them from dangerous state overreach that we’ve been seeing across the country, including in my home state of Florida.” “Business owners and school leaders need the flexibility to adopt smart, CDC-backed pandemic measures to keep children, customers and all our residents safe,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “When authoritarian governors bully mom-and-pop shops and educators into risking people’s health or hurting their bottom lines, we need added protections. Congresswoman Frankel’s bill does that, and Florida needs it. Our governor handcuffs and threatens businesses and local communities just for adopting common-sense safety measures for face coverings, vaccines and social distancing. People and businesses deserve security and flexibility, and know-nothing, overreaching governors need to stop jeopardizing our public health.” “It’s simple. If a business wants to say no shirt, no shoes, no vax, no service – they should be able to. If a parent or loc… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3363 Rep. Frankel Statement on Historic Infrastructure Deal 2021-11-05 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after voting to pass the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. “This package will create millions of good paying jobs, modernizing our bridges, roads, and public transportation systems while making historic investments in broadband, electric vehicles, green infrastructure and clean drinking water,” said Rep. Frankel. “I look forward to passing the rest of President Biden’s Build Back Better agenda to create an economy that works for all Americans.” The bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: Makes the largest federal investment in public transit ever; Makes the largest federal investment in passenger rail since the creation of Amtrak; Makes the single largest dedicated bridge investment since the construction of the interstate highway system; Makes the largest investment in clean drinking water and waste water infrastructure in American history, delivering clean water to millions of families; Ensures every American has access to reliable high-speed internet, and; Helps us tackle the climate crisis by making the largest investment in clean energy transmission and EV infrastructure in history; electrifying thousands of school and transit buses across the country; and creating a new Grid Deployment Authority to build a resilient, clean, 21st century electric grid. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed the House by a vote of 228-206. It now goes to the President for his signature. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2757 Wasserman Schultz: To Beat COVID, Schools, Businesses Need Flexibility – Not State Intrusion 2021-11-05 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) joined U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel (FL-21) to unveil legislation to allow local governments, agencies, and private businesses to implement common sense public health and safety measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19, including requirements such as social distancing, masks, vaccination, and testing. Wasserman Schultz joined with Reps. Charlie Crist (FL-13), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Hank Johnson (GA-04), and Darren Soto (FL-09) to introduce Frankel’s Let Our Cities and Local businesses Help Employees Achieve Long-Term Health (LOCAL HEALTH) Act. Click on the photo to watch the press conference. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2758 Wasserman Schultz Lauds Swift Decision to Reverse UF Policy Barring Professor Testimony 2021-11-05 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington D.C. – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) released the following statement based on reports that University of Florida President Kent Fuchs would move to reverse UF’s decision to bar professors from testifying against the state: “I’m truly thankful to President Kent Fuchs for having the fortitude and humility to push for a swift reversal of this misguided conflict of interest policy, and especially for not ultimately caving to the political pressures that Gov. Ron DeSantis regularly inflicts on Florida’s education system. The governor’s incessant hostility to facts and science, combined with non-stop bullying and threats directed at education leaders who just want to protect children, created this chilling climate of fear and suppression that, sadly, found its way on to one of the nation’s premier public university campuses. The rapid reversal of this ill-advised policy will restore the pride and integrity of the Gator Nation of which I am so incredibly proud. Go Gators!” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3360 Rep. Frankel Statement on Confirmation of Tom Nides as U.S. Ambassador to Israel 2021-11-04 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21), released the following statement after the Senate confirmed Thomas R. Nides as the next U.S. Ambassador to Israel. “Israel is a critical ally that contributes so much to U.S. innovation and defense,” said Rep. Frankel. “The confirmation of Ambassador Nides will continue to strengthen our partnership. Having an Ambassador to Israel in place that understands the special relationship our two countries share is critical to the advancement of shared goals, and I am confident that Ambassador Nides will excel in this new role.” Ambassador Nides was nominated for his position by President Biden in June. He previously served as deputy secretary of state for management and resources under Secretary Clinton between 2011 and 2013. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3358 Reps. Frankel, Katko, Underwood, Fitzpatrick, Blunt-Rochester, Nadler, Sen. Hirono Introduce Comprehensive Workplace Harassment Legislation 2021-11-03 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill will Empower Employees to Speak Out Against Harassment Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL-21), John Katko (R-NY-24), Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Lisa Blunt-Rochester (D-Del), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY-10), along with 60 additional cosponsors, re-introduced the Ending the Monopoly of Power Over Workplace Harassment Through Education and Reporting (EMPOWER) Act. This bipartisan bill will lift the veil of secrecy surrounding workplace harassment, strengthen employee protections, and increase transparency and accountability to create safer workplaces across America. A companion bill will be introduced in the Senate by Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI). “Everyone deserves to work with dignity in a safe workplace, said Rep. Frankel. “Survivors of harassment should not be silenced. This bill allows workers to speak out against hostile work environments without penalty, provides them fairer compensation, and holds liable employers accountable.” “I’m proud to help lead the bipartisan EMPOWER Act to end the culture of silence around workplace harassment. Employers are increasingly using non-disclosure agreements to force workers to sign away their rights to speak out about harassment,” said Rep. Underwood. “By prohibiting this practice, the EMPOWER Act will help ensure that everyone has a safe and dignified work environment.” “It’s past time to put an end to the culture of silence surrounding workplace harassment, which has only perpetuated hostile work environments,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “Our bipartisan legislation will hold perpetrators accountable and provide victims with the resources and support they need to report harassment or abuse in the workplace without fear of retribution.” “Everyone has the right to a harassment-free workplace, and from our farms to our factory floors, we cannot allow sexual misconduct and cultures of silence to continue,” said Rep. Blunt Rochester. “With the goal of creating workplaces and a society where all are safe… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3359 Rep. Frankel Statement on DeSantis Threatening Florida Voters 2021-11-03 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21), released the following statement in response to Governor DeSantis’ announcement that he would be creating a fully-staffed statewide law enforcement office devoted to election crimes. DeSantis also threatened to crack down further on voting rights in Florida, including advising the State Legislature to get rid of drop boxes, and increase the penalty for violating new restrictions on collecting mail-in ballots. “It’s crazy to me that our Governor is so set on scoring political points, that he is willing to manufacture a crisis about voter fraud that simply doesn’t exist,” said Rep. Frankel. “Voting is a cornerstone of our democracy, and it is our job as elected officials to protect it. That means ensuring that every eligible voter can make their voice heard, not making it harder for people to access the ballot box.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2755 Bipartisan House Vote Proclaims Solidarity with Cuban Freedom Movement 2021-11-03 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, in a rare display of bipartisanship, an overwhelming majority of the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution authored by U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) that vows solidarity with Cuban citizens demanding freedom, condemns the Communist regime’s repressive acts, and calls for swift release of its arbitrarily detained citizens. The resolution passed by a 382-40 vote, with strong support from both sides of the aisle – a rare occurrence in a closely divided Congress. This unified House message comes in the run-up to peaceful grassroots protests planned for Nov. 15 in Cuba. Today’s House resolution was passed with crucial support from Democrat Rep. Albio Sires, Chairman of the House Foreign Relations Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, and Republican Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25). Majority Leader Steny Hoyer was also crucial in bringing this resolution to the floor. “Today, Congress sends a strong, unified message to the brave Cubans who risked so much on July 11 to strive for real freedom and true self-governance: the American people are firmly by your side,” said Wasserman Schultz. “A vast bipartisan majority of House Members today agreed that we needed to clearly say that we hear the passionate human cry for self-determination ringing out from the streets of Havana. That cry has united Democrats and Republicans behind the just and urgent demands for freedom from the tyranny of this oppressive regime.” “The citizen awakening that began in July in San Antonio de los Baños, just ten miles from the town where I was born, continues to spread through Cuba. Cubans are clamoring for political freedom, economic opportunity, and a different future in which they choose their own leaders,” said Sires. “The regime has responded with brutal beatings of journalists and protesters and by cutting off internet access in a desperate effort to hide the reality in Cuba from the rest of the world. I thank Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz for her leadership and commend my colleagues on both … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403723 Rep. Castor: New Report on Child Tax Credit for Tampa Bay families Shows $172.6M Delivered in October 2021-11-02 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released a new report from the Joint Economic Committee today on the impact of the new tax cut for most families with children, showing a total of $172.6 million in payments went into the pockets of hardworking families in the region. Across Florida, 2,283,000 monthly tax cuts went to families in October for a total of $938.6M. The average payment per household was $411. “Our children are back in the classroom learning and parents are looking ahead to the holiday season – there is truly no more critical time for these lifeline payments to land in the bank accounts of our Tampa Bay neighbors. The historic child tax credit payments are helping parents put food on the table, gas in their cars, purchase diapers, clothes, school supplies, and so much more. I am heartened to hear from our neighbors about how the tax cut for families is helping them while also giving the Tampa economy a boost as we bounce back from the Covid19 pandemic,” said Rep. Castor. “Putting Florida families and children first is how we Build Back Better in the days ahead.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2752 Florida Members of Congress Call on UF to Lift Gag on Professors in Voting Rights Suit 2021-11-02 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington D.C. – Today, Florida’s entire Democratic congressional delegation sent a letter to University of Florida President Kent Fuchs condemning the school’s attempt to block three professors from testifying in a state voting rights lawsuit and the federal lawmakers requested that school administrators reverse any attempts to stifle the instructors’ academic freedoms and free speech rights. “As a delegation, there are few values we want to foster and protect more in our public university system than the freedom to speak out against laws that infringe on our fundamental rights as citizens,” said the letter, led by U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), a University of Florida graduate. “We urge you to reconsider this ‘prior restraint’ on speech that violates the First Amendment as well as the deeply rooted principles of academic freedom that we know you and the University of Florida community hold so dear.” Administrators at UF contend that the professors’ testifying in a lawsuit challenging the discriminatory impact of a new voting rights law would pose a conflict and be “adverse to UF’s interest.” However, the professors participated in a similar 2019 legal challenge to a Florida law that also placed restrictions on voting rights. “On matters of public concern, state university professors should not be punished or prohibited from speaking if they do not disrupt the educational environment or proper functioning of the University,” the Democrat lawmakers wrote to Fuchs. “In this instance, it is hard to envision a matter of greater public concern than whether Florida’s citizens can exercise their right to vote.” No Florida Republican representative in Washington signed the letter to defend the professors’ academic freedoms and free speech rights. Among the Florida Members signing the letter: Wasserman Schultz, and Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14), Ted Deutch (FL-22), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Lois Frankel (FL-21), Charlie Crist (FL-13), Val Demings (FL-10), Al Lawson (FL-05), Stephanie Murphy (FL-07), and Da… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3355 Rep. Frankel Statement on Supreme Court Hearing Oral Arguments Over Texas Abortion Law 2021-11-01 2021 2021-11 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21), released the following statement as the Supreme Court heard oral arguments on the merits of the Texas abortion law, S.B. 8. “Today’s arguments before the Supreme Court will have a dramatic impact on the lives of millions of Americans,” said Rep. Frankel. “The Texas law was written to intentionally undermine the judicial protection of a person’s access to legal abortion by allowing rogue citizens to take the law into their own hands. If upheld, this law would not only take the decision of becoming a parent away from individuals, but also set a dangerous precedent for skirting the judicial review process for any law.” S.B. 8 bans all abortions after six weeks, before most patients even know they are pregnant, including in cases of rape or incest. It allows private citizens to sue abortion providers a minimum of $10,000 for each abortion they provide after six weeks, with no limit on how many lawsuits per procedure. By giving individuals the power to enforce this law, Texas lawmakers are attempting to get around the State Action Requirement, which requires a plaintiff to demonstrate that a government, not an individual, is responsible for the violation of their Constitutional right. This ultimately makes it more difficult for patients, providers, and advocates to sue to block this dangerous law. The Supreme Court heard two challenges to the case. The first appeal came from a coalition of abortion providers aiming to sue the state over implementation of the law. The second appeal came from the U.S. Department of Justice, which holds that the Texas law undermines a federally protected Constitutional right and impedes on the ability of federal actors in the state to carry out their role in protecting this right. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2751 Wasserman Schultz: UF Must Reverse Free Speech Restraints on Professors 2021-10-31 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Sunrise, Fla. – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) released the following statement in response to University of Florida administrators informing its professors that they could not testify in a voting rights lawsuit challenging the discriminatory impact of a new state law on minorities because it was “adverse to UF’s interests.” The Congresswoman is a University of Florida graduate: “UF’s decision to prevent its professors from speaking out in court against a state law that suppresses minority voting rights is appalling. As one of three generations of Gators, this action brings nothing but shame to our alma mater. It is deeply embarrassing. We must speak out and renounce it. If allowed to stand, the restraint of these professors’ speech will undermine every UF claim to honor academic independence and free speech. It will damage UF’s ability to recruit and retain top faculty and stifle fundraising. UF will stand out in anti-academic exile, rather than an exemplar of higher learning. My hope is that President Kent Fuchs swiftly reverses this egregious action. Laws meant to suppress minority voting rights and undermine democracy are not in the interest of UF, its students or the state of Florida. Nor is gagging professors brave enough to speak out and oppose such laws. The university must serve the public, not its politicians.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403722 Rep. Castor Statement on President Biden’s Historic Build Back Better Framework 2021-10-28 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper “The Build Back Better Act will put our nation and our neighbors on a stronger, more prosperous path as we recover and rebuild from the Covid19 pandemic. As we Build Back Better, we will lift all of our neighbors by investing in families, our children, and our environment to lower costs for consumers, create family-sustaining jobs and grow our economy. This means providing universal, free preschool to 3 and 4-year-olds, expanding Medicaid to nearly 1 million Floridians, making the single largest and most comprehensive investment in affordable housing in history, extending the Earned Income Tax Credit for 17 million American workers and much more. “In Florida, rising temperatures have escalated into a code-red moment for our way of life as we face fiercer storms, rising tides and higher costs due to climate change. Here’s what we’ll do: we are going to deliver the largest investment in clean energy and resilience in our nation’s history through the Build Back Better Act. Solving the climate crisis provides an incredible opportunity to grow good-paying jobs, lower costs for consumers and improve the air we breathe. “Florida’s failure to expand Medicaid has cost our state billions of dollars while leaving almost 1 million of our neighbors without health care coverage. I am proud that we are taking action to reduce health inequalities and providing meaningful health care coverage with $0 premiums, finally making health care affordable and accessible. And we will do it through the Affordable Care Act that is popular across our state. “I am especially inspired to see large investments in children and families through high quality universal Pre-K and child care. UPK will give children a strong start in life and put them on a path to succeed in school and in life. More affordable child care will help women return to the workforce at a critical time as well.” “We promised to work with the president to Build Back Better for ALL Americans, and this framework does just that. We are only getting started.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3354 Rep. Frankel Statement on Build Back Better Framework 2021-10-28 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement in response to President Biden’s announcement of the Build Back Better framework. “This framework is the most transformative investment in children and caregiving in generations—transforming the lives of millions of children, saving parents thousands of dollars, and adding two years of free, universal schooling to our education system for the first time in over 100 years,” said Rep. Frankel. “It will be the largest effort to combat climate change in history. It will cut taxes for tens of millions of middle-class families. It is the biggest expansion of affordable health care in a decade. I’m looking forward to voting for it.” The House plans to vote on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act later this week. After passing the House, it will go to the President’s desk for his signature. The rest of the agenda will follow in the coming weeks. More information on the Build Back Better Framework can be found here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3353 Rep. Frankel Cosponsors Legislation to Strengthen Social Security 2021-10-26 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after joining Congressman John Larson (CT-01) to introduce the Social Security 2100: A Sacred Trust Act as an original cosponsor. “Social Security is our nation’s most important program for millions of older Americans, and it is our responsibility to ensure it is protected for future generations,” said Rep. Frankel. “This important legislation follows through on our promise to take care of our seniors by providing a bump in benefits to older Americans who rely on this program today and protects the longevity of the Social Security by asking millionaires and billionaires pay their fair share.” The Social Security 2100 Act would: Provide a benefit bump for current and new beneficiaries of around 2 percent to help address the current retirement crisis. Protect against inflation by improving the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) formula to better reflect the costs incurred by seniors. Extend the depletion date for when a 20 percent cut to benefits would occur to 2038, giving Congress more time to ensure the long-term stability of the program. Protect low-income workers to ensure that anyone who paid into Social Security over their lifetime can retire with dignity. Establish a Social Security Trust Fund to ensure all benefits are paid. Improve benefits for widows and widowers in two-income households. End the five-month waiting period for disability benefits. Provide caregiver credits to ensure that caregivers are not penalized in retirement for taking time off to care for children or other dependents. Extend benefits for students through the age of 26. Increase access to benefits for children who live with grandparents or other relatives. Ensure that millionaires and billionaires pay the same rate as average Americans, a provision that would only impact the top 0.4 percent of wage earners. The bill now goes to the Ways and Means Committee for review. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3352 Rep. Frankel Statement on Gov. DeSantis’ Attempt to Ban Vaccine Mandates 2021-10-21 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after Governor DeSantis announced that he would call for a special session next month to attempt to pass legislation that would ban local governments and agencies from mandating COVID-19 vaccines for their employees, and strip liability protections from any businesses that impose them. “The Governor continues to put politics above the health and safety of Floridians,” said Rep Frankel. “The COVID-19 vaccines are FDA approved and have saved countless lives—we should be applauding leaders in our community that have been pushing for others to get vaccinated, not punishing them. I will be introducing legislation to protect the rights of local governments, agencies, and employers from this kind of gross political overreach by the state.” Vaccine mandates are a critical tool for keeping employees and patrons safe, and they are effective. For example, after announcing its vaccination requirement, more than half of United Airlines unvaccinated workers went out and got vaccinated, and Tyson’s vaccination rate jumped from 45 percent to 72 percent within weeks. Governor’s proposed policies would not only undermine local governments that are doing their best to keep their communities safe but make businesses that require vaccinations liable for any adverse reaction to the vaccine itself. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-crist-bilirakis-dingell-and-fitzpatrick-introduce-bill-protect-seniors-and Soto, Bilirakis, Crist, Dingell, and Fitzpatrick Introduce Bill to Protect Seniors and People with Disabilities Under Care of Guardians 2021-10-19 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Darren Soto S001200 soto.house.gov soto https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, October 15, 2021, Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL-09), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), Charlie Crist (D-FL-13), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-12), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) introduced bipartisan legislation that supports the approximately 1.3 million adults, mostly seniors and people with disabilities, who are currently under the care of guardians by enacting protections from the risks of abuse or neglect. The Guardianship Accountability Act of 2021 implements further oversight and enacts data collection measures to hold guardians accountable in response to reports indicating an increasing number of fraud cases and financial exploitation from guardians towards vulnerable populations. "Congress must act to protect our most vulnerable community members and ensure that they receive the support they deserve," said Congressman Darren Soto. "Our Central Florida community has experienced firsthand how inadequate protections against bad actors can lead to tragedy. In 2019, abuse by a former guardian led to the horrible, preventable death of one of our seniors. We must pass this bipartisan legislation to strengthen safeguards against abuse and address the failings of our nation's guardianship system." "It is said that the strength of a society can be judged based upon how it treats its most vulnerable populations. We've seen from recent examples in the news, and alarming rates of elder abuse throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties, that guardianship is an area where we can and must do better to protect seniors," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. "Our bill will provide additional resources, strengthen protections, and improve intergovernmental coordination to achieve this paramount objective." "Toxic guardianships, like that of entrapped Britney Spears, are sadly prevalent across Florida and the country. Lack of data and accountability is one of the biggest hindrances in our fight to protect those in the guardianship system. As the son to two senior parents, I can't fathom either of them being caught … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3350 Rep. Frankel Announces Next Round of Payments for Families with Children 2021-10-15 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement as the next payments of the Child Tax Credit hit families’ bank accounts. “I’ve already heard from so many local parents who have told me how life-changing these payments have been,” said Rep. Frankel. “They have helped them pay for everything from child care while they go back to work, to groceries, to diapers for their children. This tax cut is putting money directly in the pockets of millions of American families and helping our economy grow. That is why we are working hard in Congress to extend these payments with the Build Back Better Act.” The American Rescue Plan increased the maximum Child Tax Credit for eligible families to $3,600 annually per child ages 0-5, and $3,000 annually per child age 6-17. This expanded credit is being delivered in monthly installments of up to $300 per child on the 15th of every month, through the end of the calendar year, with a final lump sum of up to $1,800 per child on families’ 2021 tax returns. Families who do not normally file taxes can still receive money using the IRS Non-Filer Sign Up Tool. The Build Back Better Act would extend these payments for American families through 2025. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-bipartisan-members-florida-congressional-delegation-send-letter-opposing Soto, Bipartisan Members of Florida Congressional Delegation Send Letter Opposing Proposed Oil Drilling in Florida Everglades 2021-10-15 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Darren Soto S001200 soto.house.gov soto https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper "Members of the Florida congressional delegation have written to the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service regarding this issue before," wrote the members. "We echo these sentiments and renew our convictions encouraging your administration to conduct a full environmental impact statement (EIS) under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for these proposals and deny any operations permits needed to advance any new oil drilling sites within the Everglades." "Congress is investing billions of dollars to restore the Everglades under the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Act; to allow oil drilling in the Everglades would put these investments in direct jeopardy. There is fierce local opposition from the Seminole Tribe and other local communities. The recent California oil spill is the latest example of the irreparable harm oil drilling can have to our communities and environment. For these reasons, we believe the proposed oil extraction activity should not be authorized." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3348 Rep. Frankel Statement on Raising Debt Limit 2021-10-13 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after voting to raise the debt limit. “Addressing the debt limit is not about future spending, it’s about meeting obligations that we already made to everyday Americans, like Social Security payments, veterans’ benefits, and COVID-19 economic relief,” said Rep. Lois Frankel. “Today, we took a stand to protect the full faith and credit of the United States. Now we need to turn our attention to passing the Build Back Better agenda and delivering the assistance working families need to thrive.” The bill raises the debt limit by $480 billion, which the Treasury Department estimates will keep the country under the debt limit until at least December 3rd. It passed the House by a vote of 219-206, and now goes to the President for his signature. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403716 Rep. Castor Welcomes Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Statue to Florida Before Final Journey to U.S. Capitol 2021-10-12 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Yesterday, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) helped unveil the Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune statue for the first time in Florida and the U.S. since arriving from Italy. The Dr. Bethune statue will soon represent the State of Florida in the United States Capitol’s National Statuary Hall Collection. Dr. Bethune will be the first African American to represent any state in the collection. Dr. Bethune takes the place of an obscure confederate general who has represented Florida in the state collection since 1922 and will be one of only a few women to represent a state in the 100-statue collection. The confederate statue that has represented Florida since the Jim Crow era was removed from the Capitol in the beginning of September. Photos are available here. “Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune is an outstanding representative of the State of Florida. The long-awaited arrival of Florida’s newest statue in the United States Capitol is now on track for early 2022 after her visit to Daytona Beach where she founded Bethune-Cookman University and embarked on her impactful career on equal rights, education, the advancement of veterans and so much more. I am grateful to the many friends who I’ve worked alongside for years in order to reach this momentous moment. Dr. Bethune embodies the very best of the Sunshine State – Floridians and all Americans can take great pride in being represented by the great educator and civil rights icon. This exhibit in Daytona Beach – Dr. Bethune’s home and the home of Bethune-Cookman University – provides an important and special opportunity to learn about Dr. Bethune’s life, and I am glad that she is being rightfully recognized here in Florida before she travels to her place of honor and recognition by all of America in the U.S. Capitol.” In attendance at the unveiling with Rep. Castor were many of the partners in the years long journey – master sculptor Nilda Comas, Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry, Bethune-Cookman University President Dr. Hiram Powell, Florida Secretary of State Laurel Lee, Mary McLeod Bethun… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2750 Wasserman Schultz, Blumenthal Introduce Legislation to Curb Youth E-Cigarette, Tobacco Use 2021-10-08 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper WASSERMAN SCHULTZ & BLUMENTHAL INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO CURB YOUTH E-CIGARETTE AND TOBACCO USE More than 2 million youth used e-cigarettes in the past year & majority use flavored e-cigarettes [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) introduced the bicameral Preventing Opportunities for Teen E-Cigarette and Tobacco Addiction (PROTECT) Act to address the tobacco epidemic harming millions of teens across the country. E-cigarettes and other nicotine-containing tobacco products have been linked to adverse effects on long-term health and harms to adolescent brain development. According to the newly released 2021 National Youth Tobacco Survey, more than 2 million youth used e-cigarettes in the past year, with 1 in 4 high school students reporting daily use. Disposable e-cigarettes, inexpensive and designed for single use, were the most commonly used e-cigarette device among young adults, and nearly 85 percent of youth users reported using flavored e-cigarettes. “This bill will help prevent yet another generation from getting hooked on tobacco,” said Blumenthal. “The scourge of e-cigarette and tobacco use among teens and young adults poses a real, dangerous threat to their long-term health and development. JUUL, Puff Bar, and other e-cigarette manufacturers have taken a page right out of Big Tobacco’s playbook, using deceptive marketing tactics and preying on impressionable youth by promoting extravagant flavors and products. By improving research, education, and outreach, the PROTECT Act would equip the CDC as well as states and localities with the funds and tools necessary to protect young people from the e-cigarette industry’s manipulative practices.” “The profit-driven, predatory assault to hook America’s young people on e-cigarettes and tobacco products demands an aggressive counterattack, and this bill would arm parents, healthcare providers, schools, and policy makers with the vital tools we need to defeat the perils young people face … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403715 Rep. Castor, FL Dems to Gov. DeSantis: Expedite Distribution of Federal K-12 Emergency Funding to School Districts 2021-10-07 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) led Florida Congressional Democrats in urging Governor Ron DeSantis and Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran to expeditiously distribute the $4.7 billion in federal COVID-19 aid to K-12 schools that they have had since March. The state has finally submitted its application for the remainder of American Rescue Plan ESSER, some $2.5 billion in funding today, though it was due to the Department of Education on June 7. Florida is the last state in the nation to apply for these additional crucial funds. Students and public schools are in dire need of additional resources to operate safely in the pandemic, address student academic achievement, and keep teachers and other essential personnel on the job. The Members last wrote DeSantis in August inquiring on the status of the already received two-thirds in American Rescue Plan funds for public school districts. The letter can be read below: October 7, 2021 Governor Ron DeSantis The Honorable Richard Corcoran State of Florida Commissioner The Capitol Florida Department of Education 400 S. Monroe Street Turlington Building, Suite 1514 Tallahassee, FL 32399 325 West Gaines Street Tallahassee, FL 32399 RE: Urge Expeditious Distribution of American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Funds Now that State has Finally Applied for All Federal Emergency Relief Dear Governor DeSantis and Commissioner Corcoran: After many months of inexplicable delay by the State of Florida, we are pleased that the State of Florida has finally submitted a plan to draw down the federal emergency aid for public schools that was passed by Congress in the American Rescue Plan (ARP) seven months ago. Under ARP, Congress and President Biden provided Florida students, educators and schools $7.4 billion to support school districts’ efforts to lift Florida K-12 public schools and address gaps caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Congress required that “[e]ach State shall make allocations to local educational agencies in an expedited and timel… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3346 Rep. Frankel Statement on Federal Judge Blocking Enforcement of Texas Abortion Law 2021-10-07 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after U.S. District Court Judge Robert Pittman granted the U.S. Department of Justice’s request to halt enforcement of S.B. 8, the recently-enacted Texas law that bans nearly all abortions in the state. “The Texas abortion law empowers anti-abortion bounty hunters to exert control over pregnant people who are trying to make the deeply personal, life-changing decision about whether to become a parent. I’m relieved that it’s been temporarily blocked,” said Rep. Frankel. “Last night’s ruling was a win for reproductive justice; however, with more court action to come, women’s reproductive freedom is still at risk.” Texas’ S.B. 8 law bans abortions at six weeks, before most individuals even know they are pregnant. It does not include any exceptions for cases of rape or incest. The law also allows citizens to bring civil suits against anyone who assists a patient seeking abortion, without having to show any connection to the person being sued. Judge Pittman’s ruling puts a temporary halt on the enforcement of the law; however, abortion recipients and providers fear they could still be penalized retroactively should the halt be lifted. In September, the House passed the Women’s Health Protect Act, which Rep. Frankel helped introduce. This critical bill would establish patients’ right to abortion, free from medically unnecessary restrictions and bans, anywhere in the United States, effectively undoing the harm done by Texas’ S.B. 8 and other abortion bans that have been introduced across the country. It is currently awaiting approval in the Senate. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3347 Rep. Frankel Statement on State Punishing Additional School Districts over Mask Mandate 2021-10-07 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after state education officials voted to punish the Palm Beach County school district, and additional Florida counties, for implementing mask mandates for students. “The Florida State Board of Education has again put politics ahead of the health and safety of students, teachers, and school staff,” said Rep. Lois Frankel. “I am alarmed by the state’s decision to withhold funding from more school districts, including Palm Beach County, who are simply trying to keep our students safe. It’s time for the Governor to stop this dangerous game and let our school boards do their jobs.” The State Board of Education voted to impose penalties equal to the monthly salaries of the local school board members. Palm Beach County will lose $27,284 per month as long as mandates are in place. The State also voted to withhold additional funding from Broward and Alachua school districts, equal to the amount received from federal grants. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3344 Rep. Frankel Statement on Biden Administration’s Reversal of Harmful Title X Rule 2021-10-05 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) issued the following statement after the Department of Health and Human Services reversed a harmful Trump-era policy that cut off Title X funding from health care providers who offer abortion services or refer patients for abortion. This new rule re-instates critical funding for clinics like Planned Parenthood and the Presidential Women’s Center in West Palm Beach, which provide reproductive health services, cancer screenings, and testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases, for millions of low-income patients across America. “Millions of Americans rely on Title X funded health care providers to access the resources they need to stay healthy, including family planning tools that would otherwise be out of reach for low-income patients. Yet, the Trump Administration cut off funding for nearly 1,000 of these clinics by not allowing grantees to provide abortions or abortion-related services, even with their own private funding,” said Rep. Frankel. “This new rule from the Biden-Harris Administration rights this terrible wrong and ensures that the needs of patients are once again prioritized over the personal beliefs of politicians looking to undermine their health care. Abortion care is a critical aspect of reproductive health care, and I’m grateful this Administration has taken this important step to ensure its accessible for all Americans.” The Biden-Harris Administration’s new rule reinstates eligibility for Title X funds to be given to organizations, like Planned Parenthood, that provide abortions or abortion referrals, with non-federal funds. It also reverses the requirement that Title X grantees not share a physical space with an abortion provider and requires Title X clinics to use culturally and linguistically appropriate language, offer referrals for primary care providers, and offer prescriptions for a full range of contraceptive methods. It also discusses the goals of equity and racial and socioeconomic justice. While the new rul… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3345 Rep. Frankel Statement on State Threats to Local School Board Over Mask Mandates 2021-10-05 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement, after state education officials scheduled a hearing to determine whether schools in Palm Beach County, and eight additional counties, violated State Department of Health rules by implementing mask mandates for students. School board members stand to lose portions of their salaries depending on the outcome of the hearing. “Governor DeSantis has put politics ahead of the health and safety of Floridians since the start of the pandemic, and now it’s our students here in Palm Beach County that are in the crosshairs. Our school board members are doing their best to keep our children—many of whom are too young to be vaccinated—safe from COVID-19. Threatening to withhold school board members’ salaries for doing their job is shameful,” said Rep. Frankel. “The good news is that the Biden Administration recently announced a new federal grant program to support school districts being unfairly punished by state governments for implementing commonsense safety measures, and some Florida districts have already received this funding. I encourage other school boards, including my own, to make sure they have applied for these Project SAFE grants as soon as possible, so we can make sure all our kids are healthy and safe, regardless of the Governor’s threats. I will work with the Biden Administration to push back on any additional penalties inflicted by Governor DeSantis.” The Biden Administration recently announced the start of the Project SAFE Grants program, which is designed to assist school districts facing retribution for instituting mask mandates or other measures to protect students and teachers. School districts that have adopted policies following CDC guidance to prevent the spread of COVD-19 and have incurred a financial penalty from the state for the implementation of these policies can apply here. Meanwhile, Florida continues to be the only state that has yet to apply for American Rescue Plan funding for public education… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2746 New Law Would Reveal True Horror of America’s Deadly School Shootings 2021-10-04 2021 2021-10 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), Jahana Hayes (CT-05) and Lucy McBath (GA-06) announced that the School Shooting Safety and Preparedness Act has been filed, legislation that will allow the public and policy makers to gain a complete and accurate picture of gun violence in and around our school campuses, and provide actionable data to build effective strategies to prevent bloodshed at America’s places of learning. Crucially, this law would create a definition for ‘school shooting,’ which does not exist in federal law. Currently, policy makers rely on media reports of ‘school shootings,’ which can vary widely. With a standard definition, lawmakers would have a reliable way to measure incidents, trends, and the impact of reforms and strategies designed to save lives. This bill would also direct the Department of Education to consult with the Departments of Justice (DOJ) and Health and Human Services (HHS) to produce comprehensive annual reports on school safety indicators, such as shooting and fatality statistics, shooter and victim demographics, shooter motivations, the types of firearms and ammunition acquired and used, and more. It would also track prevention efforts, such as building designs, and communication and response plans. Without that, a true understanding of the problem remains as elusive as the best solutions we need to finally end it. “We will never loosen the chokehold opponents of gun safety have on solving this public health crisis until we fully understand the carnage that firearms inflict on Americans, especially on our school campuses, “ said Wasserman Schultz. “The more we know about the dangers that guns pose to our classrooms, the more likely we are to prevent the next Marjorie Stoneman Douglas or Sandy Hook massacre. Protecting students and teachers, and understanding the real dangers they face from firearms, is yet one more political space where all sides can agree that we need to make swift, substantial progress. We just need the data to help identif… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403712 Rep. Castor, Bicameral Colleagues Reintroduce Legislation to Protect Children and Teens From Online Manipulation and Harm 2021-09-30 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14), Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), along with Reps. Jennifer Wexton (VA10), Lori Trahan (MA03) and Yvette Clarke (NY09) reintroduced the Kids Internet Design and Safety (KIDS) Act, legislation to stop online practices such as manipulative marketing, amplification of harmful content, and damaging design features, which threaten young people online. “Research has made it clear that our increasingly online world is unsafe for children, with popular apps pushing kids to spend unhealthy amounts of time on their devices and negatively affecting the mental health of teens. It’s past time to take action. I’m proud to reintroduce the KIDS Act with my House and Senate colleagues to implement safeguards to protect our children online and hold Big Tech and manipulative marketers accountable for their dangerous actions. Let’s get this bill over the finish line and provide our kids the 21st century online protections they deserve,” said Rep. Castor. “The handful of powerful online platforms where kids and teens spend most of their online time are inherently harmful to them,” said Senator Markey, co-author of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). “Big Tech continues to blatantly prioritize raking in revenue over protecting children and teens, and that must stop. We know that these companies won’t change their ways unless Congress forces them to. That’s why I am proud to re-introduce the Kids Internet Design and Safety Act. I thank my partners in the Senate and House of Representatives for their continued leadership on this important issue and will work to get this legislation passed.” "Our kids are spending more and more time in front of their screens, which means more time being bombarded by inappropriate ads and uncensored content," said Rep. Jennifer Wexton. "Big tech companies have an incentive to get more views, more clicks, and more revenue, and right now there are minimal guardrails to protect children from that manipulative b… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403713 Rep. Castor Statement on U.S. Dept. of Labor Finding Gopher Resource ‘Willfully Exposed Workers to Unsafe Environment’ 2021-09-30 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released citations against Gopher Resource LLC with a willful violation – the highest violation possible - for exposing workers to serious workplace hazards. OSHA has proposed $319K in penalties to address violations. “Today’s damning OSHA report and penalties confirm that Gopher lead smelting plant sacrificed the health and lives of Tampa workers and their families for corporate profit. This is a failure on all levels – violations including toxin exposure above the permissible limit, broken respirators and damaged equipment should have been addressed immediately. Now, our neighbors will deal with the consequences of Gopher’s greed. These violations by Gopher make it clear that the health of our neighbors was jeopardized every day they came to work with damaged, lead-exposed equipment. No one should be forced to choose between a paycheck and a hazardous workplace. I will continue to work diligently in Congress and with local partners to help our neighbors who are suffering from Gopher’s failures. “Today’s report is another urgent warning that we need to update the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. While the Tampa Bay Times' outstanding investigative journalism brought these working conditions to light, it should not take a newspaper expose for our workers to be safe on the job. A 50-year-old law cannot meaningfully oversee the 21st century workplace, and I’ll continue advocating to update the law, increase OSHA’s resources and increase allowable civil penalties. The civil fines and penalties allowed by OSHA are woefully inadequate and too many companies like Gopher can just chalk it up to the cost of doing business. That’s why I am proud that we have included a provision in the Build Back Better package to provide for a 10-fold increase in allowable OSHA civil penalties. No monetary penalties against the company will fully rectify the harm our neighbors… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3343 Rep. Frankel Statement on Government Funding Extension 2021-09-30 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after voting to pass the Extending Government Funding and Delivering Emergency Assistance Act, which prevents a government shutdown by extending funding for critical education, health, housing, and public safety programs through December 3rd. This legislation also delivers $28.6 billion in desperately needed relief to the survivors of recent natural disasters and provides $6.3 billion to help resettle Afghan refugees. “Today’s vote was a critical step forward, but there’s still more to do. This legislation will keep the government funded and ensure that the services families across our country rely on—like nutrition assistance, services for veterans, and more—continue to run without interruption,” said Rep. Frankel. “This bill will also deliver assistance to Americans who have been struggling to make ends meet due to COVID-19, survivors of devastating natural disasters, and Afghan refugees. Now, I’m look forward to working with my colleagues to continue to deliver on the President’s Build Back Better agenda.” The Extending Government Funding and Delivering Emergency Assistance Act is comprised of three key elements: A Continuing Resolution which extends funding for vital federal agencies, including education, health, housing, and public safety programs through December 3rd. Emergency disaster funding which includes $28.6 billion to address the rising cost of climate change while providing relief for survivors of recent natural disasters such as Hurricanes Ida, Delta, Zeta, and Laura, wildfires, severe droughts and winter storms. Emergency assistance for Afghan evacuees which includes $6.3 billion in support for temporary housing, necessary security screenings, the resettlement of eligible evacuees in the United States, and funding to provide humanitarian assistance for Afghan refugees in neighboring countries. The Extending Government Funding and Delivering Emergency Assistance Act, which is Senate amended, pas… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3342 Rep. Frankel Announces Health Care Funding for Palm Beach County Clinics 2021-09-29 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21), released the following statement announcing over $1.5 million in critical grant funding for the Health Care District of Palm Beach County and Genesis Community Health through the American Rescue Plan. “These clinics have been absolutely crucial in the fight against COVID-19 in Palm Beach County thanks to the incredible work they do in our underserved communities,” said Rep. Frankel. “This funding will help the Health Care District and Genesis Community Health expand and renovate their spaces to continue delivering exceptional care—including COVID-19 testing, treatment, and vaccination—to those who need it most.” The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has released nearly $1 billion in awards from the American Rescue Plan for local clinics. The Health Care District of Palm Beach County will receive $1,010,224 and Genesis Community Health will receive $567,859 through this grant program. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2745 Wasserman Schultz Secures Surfside Investigation in Final Continuing Resolution Funding Package 2021-09-29 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington D.C. – The final continuing resolution package that funds federal agencies through early December and buys time to avoid a government shutdown, includes $22 million to conduct a Surfside building collapse investigation, a measure that was already approved in the House, and should arrive to President Biden’s desk later this week. As part of the ongoing federal response into the collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, FL, U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) in July secured $22 million in funding for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to conduct a technical investigation into the cause of the collapse that claimed nearly 100 lives. From her position on the House Appropriations Committee, Wasserman Schultz included this funding in the Fiscal Year 2022 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations bill. Last week, Wasserman Schultz secured the funding in the House Emergency Supplemental attached to the Continuing Resolution (CR), which has now been included in the Senate version of the “clean” CR. These funds will allow NIST to conduct an unprecedented investigation into the sources of failure, and provide recommendations to rectify shortcomings in existing building standards to prevent future similar disasters. It can also inform future building codes for similar structures. NIST began investigating soon after the tragic collapse. This funding will give NIST resources it needs to continue its full, scientific investigation through the upcoming fiscal year. “As we still mourn all those we lost, it’s crucial to assess just how widespread these building vulnerability issues may be. In South Florida and across the United States, thousands of condos just like Champlain Towers may face similar structural problems,” said Wasserman Schultz, whose district includes Surfside, and roughly 15 miles of coastal Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. “This NIST investigation can help unlock the scope of those issues and saves thousands more lives by averting similar tragedies. I’m … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403709 Reps. Castor, Long Introduce Bipartisan National Voter Registration Day Resolution 2021-09-28 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Today, Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) and Billy Long (MO07) led 36 colleagues in introducing a bipartisan resolution recognizing September 28, 2021 as National Voter Registration Day. Castor introduced a similar resolution during the 116th Congress. National Voter Registration Day was created in 2012 to raise awareness about the need for Americans to register to vote and keep their registration current. “I am honored to introduce the bipartisan National Voter Registration Day resolution with Rep. Long to reaffirm Congress’ shared commitment to our bedrock democratic values. A strong democracy and exercising one’s fundamental right to vote should not be a partisan issue. Public participation in American elections ensures that our nation’s grand experiment can continue, and I encourage all of our neighbors, here in Tampa and across the nation, to take time today to register to vote today and encourage friends and family members to do the same,” said Rep. Castor. “Voting is the backbone of our democracy. When people vote, they are doing their civic duty to elect people who will best represent them at all levels of government. Voting gives the people the power to change policy, build better communities, and hold government officials accountable. I am proud to co-lead this resolution with my colleague as getting people to vote is crucial to ensuring that our democracy lives on. On National Voter Registration Day, I encourage all Americans that aren’t registered to vote to register today,” said Rep. Long. Current Signers (38): Castor, Long, Adams, Cárdenas, Carson, Case, Cicilline, Cleaver, Cohen, Correa, Costa, Crist, Dean, Foster, Green, Grijalva, Hayes, Holmes Norton, Horsford, Jackson Lee, Kildee, Lawson, Meng, Neguse, Phillips, Roybal-Allard, Scanlon, Soto, Spanberger, Suozzi, B. Thompson, M. Thompson, Titus, Tonko, Wasserman Schultz, Watson Coleman, Wild and Williams Supporting Organizations: National Voter Registration Day, National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS), the National Association of State Ele… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403710 Rep. Castor Announces $1.7M American Rescue Plan Grant for Tampa Family Health Centers 2021-09-28 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) announced that the Tampa Family Health Centers (TFHC) has been awarded $1,700,386 through the FY 2021 American Rescue Plan Capital Improvements Award, the second largest grant in the State of Florida. This initiative provides health centers funding for COVID-19-related capital needs, constructing new facilities, renovating and expanding existing facilities to enhance response to pandemics, and purchasing new state-of-the-art equipment, including telehealth technology, mobile medical vans, and freezers to store vaccines. “The health heroes at Tampa Family Health Centers have provided excellent care and critical services, including Covid19 vaccinations, to our neighbors throughout the pandemic,” said Rep. Castor. “This American Rescue Plan award will allow them to continue to expand their top-of-the-line health services across the Tampa Bay community, including a new center for pediatrics north of Carrollwood in Lutz. From drive-thru vaccinations and testing to telehealth services, Tampa Family Health Centers has adapted to this moment and ensured that the health needs of our diverse community have been met. I join my neighbors in our gratitude for TFHC’s continued service to keeping Floridians healthy and safe, and will continue my work to secure federal resources and investments for Tampa in the days ahead.” “This $1.7 million dollar grant will allow TFHC to build a new stand-alone pediatric and pediatric dental office targeting our youth population. These funds will also allow TFHC to enhance an existing building to include traditional behavioral health to increase access to care.”, said Sherry Hoback, President and CEO of Tampa Family Health Centers. “As a patient centered medical home providing healthcare to our community for over 37 years, it is essential to continue to bring the most advanced systems and cutting-edge care to our patients. “ In February 2021, Rep. Castor announced that Tampa Family Health Centers was one of an initial 250 health centers across the count… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3341 Rep. Frankel Statement on House Passage of the Women’s Health Protection Act 2021-09-24 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after the House passed the Women’s Health Protection Act, which would protect access to safe legal abortion care, regardless of where a person lives. “The decision of whether, if, and when to become a parent is one of the most personal life decisions we can make, and it’s a decision that should be between a patient and the people they trust—not politicians or vigilante strangers,” said Rep. Frankel. “Laws like what we are seeing in Texas and proposed legislation in my home state of Florida are meant to put power, money, and politics over the health and safety of people who need abortion care. That’s why this bill is so important. It is a beacon of hope in the fight for reproductive freedom and will protect both patients and health care providers.” The Women’s Health Protection Act would prohibit states from enacting medically unnecessary restrictions that unfairly target abortion providers and prevent patients from getting the care they need, including the recently enacted S.B. 8 in Texas and recently introduced legislation in Florida. The Women’s Health Protection Act passed by a vote of 218-211. The bill now heads to the Senate for its approval. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403707 Rep. Castor Statement on Passage of Bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act and Pay Raise for U.S. Military Service Members 2021-09-23 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released the following statement upon passage of the bipartisan FY22 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “The men and women in uniform who serve our country, including at Tampa’s MacDill Air Force Base, deserve the support necessary to meet ever-changing national security threats. This bipartisan defense bill will bolster our national security and invest in new, innovative technologies to maintain America’s competitive edge over our adversaries including Russia and China. “Investments that I championed for our service members are included in the bill, including a 2.7 percent pay raise for our troops and an air purification assessment for base housing and other on-base facilities. This follows up on my work to ensure that housing is safe and free from mold and shoddy construction – Congress is committed to continuing to ensure that housing is improved for MacDill families. “Congress is hard at work crafting transformative legislation to help Build Back Better and protect families from increasing climate-fueled threats, so I am glad to see many climate-forward investments included in the NDAA. By providing the Department of Defense funds to help us reduce pollution, improve water conservation and protect military communities from PFAS ‘forever chemicals,’ and prepare our military against the impacts of our warming climate, our nation will be safer, and our military members better prepared to protect and defend. “Funding that I championed for Special Operations Forces also is contained in the bill, including an increase in funding to mitigate undiagnosed, untreated traumatic brain injuries and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The NDAA will also invest in the Joint MISO WebOps Center (JMWC), which I visited earlier this year at MacDill AFB, to help modernize their work in the global information space. “Over the years, our Afghan allies have worked with U.S. troops at great personal risk to themselves, and we must fulfill our promise to provide them safety in our country after … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3338 Rep. Frankel Statement on Iron Dome Supplemental Bill 2021-09-23 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after voting to replenish Israel’s Iron Dome missile interceptors through a supplemental funding bill. “The Iron Dome is a life-saving missile defense system that protects innocent civilians from rocket attacks by terrorist groups who want to see Israel wiped from the map,” said Rep. Frankel. “Imagine what life would look like in Israel right now if the 4,000+ rockets fired at Israeli schools, parks, airports, and hospitals this summer hadn’t been intercepted by this remarkable system. Iron Dome saves lives, prevents war, and is in America’s national interest. That’s why funding for Iron Dome has always had overwhelming bipartisan support and today’s vote reflects our continued commitment to our ally, partner, and friend—Israel. I urge the Senate to immediately take up and pass this critical measure.” This funding is consistent with the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Obama-Biden administration in 2016 between the United States and Israel to re-fund the Iron Dome, a defense system developed jointly by both countries. The funding will replenish the Iron Dome’s missile interceptors that were used to protect civilians from rocket fire this summer. Congresswoman Frankel shared stories on the House Floor in May, of an Israeli grandmother, a five-year-old boy, and an Arab-Israeli teenage girl, all of whom were murdered by Hamas rockets. Without Iron Dome, there could be thousands more heartbreaking stories just like those. The bill passed by a vote of 420-9. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3339 Frankel Provisions Advancing Women Included in National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 2021-09-23 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) voted to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2022, a strong, bipartisan bill that strengthens America’s national security, upholds our values, supports our servicemembers and their families, and advances our leadership around the world. Importantly, the bill includes key Frankel provisions to advance women’s participation in national security forces at home and abroad. Specifically, the bill includes language to create a pilot program to assess the barriers preventing women’s participation in national security forces of six partner countries. It also requires the Secretary of Defense to encourage admitting diverse individuals, including women, to each military service academy and to engage with elementary schools, secondary schools, postsecondary educational institutions, and nonprofits to support activities related to supporting women and peace around the world. “When women are given the opportunity to lead and are at the table for decisions about peace, security, and the wellbeing of their communities, the world is a safer and more prosperous place,” said Rep. Frankel. “Increasing women’s participation in peace and security efforts is not only crucial to advancing gender equality around the world, but also critical to advancing a broader national security strategy that is inclusive, diverse, and reflective of our values. This bill brings us one step closer to achieving these important goals.” In addition to the Frankel provisions on gender equity included in the NDAA, the bipartisan bill also included a number of critical defense priorities including: Advances our national security: Establishes a bipartisan U.S-Israel Technology Working Group to increase collaboration between the United States and Israel on emerging technology in cyber, space, artificial intelligence, and energy, and; Provides new tools to deter aggression from Russia and China and action against transnational threats. Meeting our responsibilit… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/seven-soto-amendments-pass-annual-house-defense-bill Seven Soto Amendments Pass in Annual House Defense Bill 2021-09-23 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Darren Soto S001200 soto.house.gov soto https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2022, which includes seven amendments introduced by Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09). H.R. 4350 authorizes FY2022 appropriations for military activities and programs of the Department of Defense (e.g., personnel; research, development, test, and evaluation; and procurement of items such as aircraft, missiles, and ammunition). It also prescribes military personnel strengths for FY2022. This much-needed piece of legislation addresses the COVID-19 pandemic, promotes transparency, invests in military infrastructure, and supports our service members. "Our military represents the very best of America," said Congressman Soto. "Every year, the NDAA brings us one step further in enhancing the national and economic security of the American people while providing unwavering support for our troops. The passage of my amendments will support technological advances impacting Central Florida and ensure the U.S. does not fall behind on research and development. Today and always, I will proudly support a strong national defense that honors our values, protects our citizens and strengthens our leadership in the world." The following amendments introduced by Rep. Soto were included in the bill text: #159 Directs the Secretary of Defense to report to Congress within a year of implementing the plan developed in response to GAO recommendations on tracking, response, and training for civilian employees of the Department of Defense regarding sexual harassment and assault. #645 Adds related technologies like advanced storage capacity to the renewable or clean energy resources that can be considered to further data center energy efficiency and resiliency. #733 Requires military service academies and senior reserve officer's training corps to report on their plans to increase the number of minority cadets and midshipmen. #659 (Soto/Schweikert) Adds "distributed ledger technologies" to the definition of "digit… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3337 Rep. Frankel Statement on Florida Surgeon General Emergency School Rule 2021-09-22 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) issued the following statement after Florida’s newly appointed Surgeon General, Dr. Joseph Ladapo, issued an emergency rule that undermines the ability for school districts to keep students safe from COVID-19 by allowing parents to decide whether children attend school after being exposed to people who have COVID-19, and opt out of mask mandates at their sole discretion. "This decision will allow one parent to jeopardize the health and safety of not only their child, but everyone their child comes into contact with at school,” said Rep. Frankel. “Mask requirements and quarantining when exposed to COVID-19 keep children, teachers, staff, and their families safe. The Surgeon General’s new rule is dangerous.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3335 Rep. Frankel Statement on Florida Job Growth 2021-09-21 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement in response to a new jobs report from the Joint Economic Committee which details an increase of 284,700 new jobs in the state of Florida since President Biden took office. “The investments Congress and the Biden Administration made in working families through the American Rescue Plan are already paying off as more Americans return to work, dropping the unemployment rate to a pandemic-era low,” said Rep. Frankel. “Here in Florida, nearly 300,000 jobs have been created; jobs that are helping keep families in their homes, put food on the table, and get our economy back on track. I look forward to voting for the bipartisan Infrastructure, Investment, and Jobs Act and the Build Back Better Act next week to continue to grow our economy from the bottom-up and from the middle-out, and help our working families get through these challenging times.” The Joint Economic Committee compiles state-by-state data for all 50 states and the District of Columbia, following the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ monthly jobs report. In the month of August, the latest for which state-level data is available, Florida created 15,500 jobs. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403706 Reps. Castor, Bowman Lead 21 Colleagues in Urging HUD to Prioritize Increased Access to Broadband 2021-09-17 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor (FL14) and Jamaal Bowman (NY16) led 21 House Members encouraging the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to work with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to help provide all Americans with accessible broadband, particularly our neighbors who live in public housing. The Covid19 pandemic has exposed many of the challenges our most vulnerable communities face, including inaccessibility to reliable internet service. Cosigners of the letter include: Reps. Kathy Castor, Jamaal Bowman, Eleanor Holmes Norton, G. K. Butterfield, Brenda L. Lawrence, Al Lawson, Yvette Clarke, Earl Blumenauer, Anna G. Eshoo, Carolyn B. Maloney, Kaialiʻi Kahele, David N. Cicilline, Nikema Williams, Nydia M. Velázquez, Dina Titus, Lucille Roybal-Allard, Ed Case, James P. McGovern, Mondaire Jones, Steve Cohen, Alan Lowenthal, André Carson and Tony Cárdenas. The letter can be read here and below: The Honorable Marcia L. Fudge Office of the Secretary Department of Housing and Urban Development 451 7th Street, S.W. Washington, DC 20410 RE: HUD Coordination with the FCC on Broadband Data Dear Secretary Fudge, Thank you for your work fighting on behalf of our marginalized neighbors throughout your career. We write to encourage the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to work with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to help provide all Americans with accessible broadband, particularly for our neighbors who reside in public housing. We have been concerned about the consequences to students and families who lack home internet connections, and the coronavirus pandemic made it clear that we must do all that we can to achieve universal, affordable, high-speed broadband for all. There are several compelling reasons to make this a priority. Studies have shown that middle and high school students without home internet have worse educational outcomes compared to students with home internet access. Internet availability facilitates telehealth applications, allowing for better health … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3333 Rep. Frankel Announces New Child Tax Credit Tool as Third Round of Assistance Arrives 2021-09-15 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) announced a new simplified, bilingual, and mobile-friendly tool for parents who are eligible for the Child Tax Credit (CTC) but who have not yet received a payment or need to update their status. GetCTC.org has been rolled out just in time for the third round of CTC payments to hit the bank accounts of American families. Most families will receive up to $3,600 per child ages 0-5, and $3,000 per child ages 6-17. The money is being delivered in monthly installments of up to $300 per child on the 15th of every month, through the end of the calendar year, with a final lump sum of between $1,500 and $1,800. “I’ve heard from so many parents in our community who have told me how life-changing this extra money has been. Over 2,296,000 monthly payments, totaling more than $933.5 million have been sent to families in our state, but there are still parents who have not yet gotten this critical assistance,” said Rep. Frankel. “This new tool will help us make sure that every family gets the help they need to keep their children healthy and safe during this challenging time.” GetCTC.org includes information in English and Spanish, resources for navigators that are helping others apply, and extends the contact methods to email and text message. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3334 Rep. Frankel Statement on Anniversary of Historic Israel Peace Agreements 2021-09-15 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL - Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement in honor of the one-year anniversary of the Abraham Accords. “One year ago today, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain took a historic and courageous step toward peace,” said Rep. Frankel. “Morocco and Sudan have since joined the Abraham Accords, and I am encouraged that the Biden Administration is committed to strengthening Israeli-Arab relations even further to advance peace and prosperity throughout the region.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2743 Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month 2021-09-15 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) issued the following statement in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month: "The immense contributions Hispanics make to this nation are, to this day, too often undervalued or ignored, a pattern of disregard that echoes throughout American history. Yet from the resilience of our economy, to keeping us all faithful to our founding principles of freedom, opportunity and equality, we all owe deep political debts to the hard work and principled activism of generations of Hispanic Americans, including the current one. As we begin to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month today, let us honor that rich history, culture, and legacy of contributions. And let’s all draw strength from the powerful and inspiring examples of courage, innovation, artistry and effort that the Hispanic Community has given to allow America’s grand experiment in democracy to thrive. From the COVID-19 medical front lines to the nation’s most critical labor and immigration fights, our Hispanic communities are tough and compassionate. Every day, they hold America true to its promise of creating a more perfect union. For that, I will always fight for the rights, respect, and resources that all our Hispanic communities deserve, this and every month." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403701 Rep. Castor Statement on U.S. Department of Education Support for Florida Students and Educators in Face of Penalties and Retribution by Governor 2021-09-13 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released the following statement regarding the U.S. Department of Education’s (U.S. ED) Office for Civil Rights’ investigation into whether the Florida Department of Education may be preventing school districts in the state from considering or meeting the needs of students with disabilities as a result of Florida’s mask opt-out policy in public schools. This week, the U.S. ED also announced Project SAFE (Supporting America's Families and Educators), a grant initiative to provide additional funding to school districts, including Hillsborough County, that have funds withheld by their state or are otherwise financially penalized for implementing strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19 consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance, such as universal indoor masking. “Keeping our children and educators safe in the middle of the Covid19 pandemic is paramount. The American Academy of Pediatrics, public health experts in Florida as well as the CDC recommend universal masking in K-12 schools, yet Gov. DeSantis is failing our students and our state by exacting retribution on educators and fighting in the courts to prevent local school boards from taking steps to keep kids and educators safe. Health experts have advised that Gov. DeSantis’s actions could lead to higher cases of transmission in the classroom as well as keep higher-risk students with disabilities out of the physical classroom for another schoolyear – in opposition to a federal civil rights law. The governor’s misguided actions against health protocols in schools comes as August marks our state’s deadliest month of the pandemic with over 5,700 deaths. “Instead of fighting local educators in court, Gov. DeSantis should be prioritizing getting out the billions in federal Covid19 relief funding, that by law were mandated to be sent to local school districts months ago, so that we can safeguard all of our students and educators’ health. While the governor focuses on punishing school districts that… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3332 Rep. Frankel Urges DeSantis to Aid Hungry Children 2021-09-13 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement urging Governor DeSantis to apply for food assistance for poor children fully paid for by the federal government at no cost to the state. Florida is the only state refusing to extend this program known as Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT). The P-EBT program has been critical for helping food-insecure Floridians feed their children for the past year. “There has been so much suffering during the COVID-19 pandemic. We have hungry children in Florida, including thousands in Palm Beach County, yet inexplicably Governor DeSantis has blocked our neediest families from getting food aid from the federal government,” said Rep. Frankel. “The governor should stop playing politics with children’s lives and apply for the funds immediately.” Rep. Frankel joined the rest of the Florida Democratic delegation to write a letter to Governor DeSantis demanding he take action to get this funding. Click here for the Members’ letter on federal food assistance. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3330 Rep. Frankel Statement on President Biden’s New Vaccine Mandate 2021-09-10 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement applauding President Biden’s announcement that federal employees and healthcare workers will be required to get vaccinated and all employers with over 100 employees will need to mandate a vaccine-or-test policy. “This decision by our President will save lives and finally get our nation to the other side of this pandemic,” said Rep. Frankel. “I have been speaking to local business owners in South Florida for months who want to do the right thing but have been concerned about the political repercussions—now they have the backing and the blueprint to help protect their employees, safeguard their community, strengthen our economy, and get us back to our lives.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3331 Rep. Frankel Statement on Department of Justice Response to Texas Abortion Ban 2021-09-10 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement applauding the Department of Justice’s decision to sue the state of Texas over its harmful abortion ban that went into law last week. “The decision about whether, when, or how to become a parent is one of the most important decisions we make, yet this Texas abortion law wants to leave this life-changing, personal decision in the hands of anti-abortion bounty hunters,” said Rep. Frankel. “I’m glad to see the Department of Justice take action to stop this terrible law. Now it’s time for Congress to do our part and pass the Women’s Health Protection Act which would protect health care providers’ ability to deliver abortion services and patients’ access to those services free from medically unnecessary and onerous restrictions.” Texas’s S.B. 8 law bans abortions at six weeks, before most individuals even know they are pregnant. It does not include any exceptions for cases of rape or incest. The law allows citizens to bring civil suits against anyone who assists a patient seeking abortion, without having to show any connection to the person being sued. In June, Rep. Frankel, a lead sponsor, introduced the Women’s Health Protect Act, bicameral legislation that would establish patients’ right to abortion, free from medically unnecessary restrictions and bans, anywhere in the United States. This critical legislation would undo the harm done by Texas’s S.B. 8 and other abortion bans that have been introduced across the country. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3327 Rep. Frankel Statement on Restrictive Abortion Ban in Texas 2021-09-01 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after the Supreme Court failed to stop Texas’s radical six-week abortion ban, the most restrictive abortion ban since Roe V. Wade, from going into effect. “The Texas abortion ban puts politics over the health and safety of pregnant people and inserts politicians into the deeply personal decision of if and when to become a parent,” said Rep. Frankel. “Women need the freedom to control their own reproductive destinies in order to lead full, healthy lives, and, at the end of the day, the decision to bring a child into this world should be one they make for themselves with their loved ones and doctors, not with their governor or local representative.” Texas’s S.B. 8 law bans abortions at six weeks, before many individuals even know they are pregnant. It does not include any exceptions for cases of rape or incest. The law also allows citizens to bring civil suits against anyone who assists a patient seeking abortion, without having to show any connection to the person being sued. In June, Rep. Frankel helped introduce the Women’s Health Protect Act, bicameral legislation that would establish patients’ right to abortion, free from medically unnecessary restrictions and bans, anywhere in the United States. This critical legislation would undo the harm done by Texas’s S.B. 8 and other abortion bans that have been introduced across the country. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3328 Rep. Frankel Calls for Department of Education to Help Florida’s Children, Fund School Districts Directly 2021-09-01 2021 2021-09 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement requesting the Department of Education to send federal funding directly to school districts in order to counter Governor DeSantis’ decision to withhold funding from local school districts that have implemented mask mandates. “Governor DeSantis’ efforts to withhold funding from school districts that have put mask requirements in place to protect our children is dangerous and irresponsible. We must ensure that our school districts can make the best decisions to keep our children safe,” said Rep. Frankel. “I’ve been in communication with Miguel Cardona, the U.S. Secretary of Education, on this pressing issue, and I look forward to working with his team to find avenues for direct funding from the federal government to school districts being penalized by governors for taking common sense measures to keep our children healthy this school year.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403693 Rep. Castor Urges Transportation Secretary Buttigieg, FAA Administrator Dickson to Expedite Replacement for TPA Air Traffic Control Tower Due to Deteriorating Conditions 2021-08-31 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) urged U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Steve Dickson to expedite the replacement of a new Federal Aviation Administration air traffic control tower at Tampa International Airport due to its deteriorated condition. A bipartisan infrastructure package passed by the Senate and soon to be considered by the House allocates $25 billion to address our nation’s airports. “The Tampa Airport air traffic control tower and dedicated controllers have served us well for almost fifty years, but the tower is at the end of its useful life and is in need of replacement as soon as possible. In fact, the tower has been seriously deficient for a number of years. I toured the tower personally several years ago and was shocked at the state of the tower. I relayed my concerns to FAA at that time, and spoke with FAA officials in July 2015, and rather than proceed with replacement, the FAA chose to make repairs. Since that time, the conditions in the tower have deteriorated. At a time when the Congress and President Joe Biden are poised to make major investments in critical American infrastructure, the Tampa Airport air traffic control tower must be a top priority,” wrote Rep. Castor. “Some air traffic control facilities suffer from major physical infrastructure issues, while others have long exceeded their lifespan. TPA Tower is one of the oldest and in most need of replacement of all of FAA’s Core 30 airport air traffic control towers,” said Jen McCoy, National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) Local President. The letter can be read here and below: The Honorable Pete Buttigieg The Honorable Steve Dickson Office of the Secretary Office of the Administrator U.S. Dept of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration 1200 New Jersey Ave. SE 800 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20590 Washington, DC 20591 RE: Urgent Need for New Air Traffic Control Tower at Tampa International Airport Dear Secretary Bu… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2740 United States Ends Military Presence in Afghanistan 2021-08-31 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Debbie Wasserman Schultz W000797 wassermanschultz.house.gov wassermanschultz https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) released the following statement on the end of the United States military presence in Afghanistan: "Today, America’s longest war comes to an end. Yet the commitment to all who fought there is still not complete, as we work to ensure safe passage for any Americans, Afghan partners, and foreign nationals who still want to leave Afghanistan. Our deepest thanks go to our brave men and women in uniform who served courageously, and at great cost, over this two-decade conflict. We owe special gratitude to those who just executed the largest airlift in U.S. history, with over 120,000 U.S., Afghan and ally citizens evacuated – a truly remarkable feat. Ending this mission now, while extremely difficult, is the surest way to avoid increasingly dangerous conditions for our troops and allies on the ground. Going forward, we will continue to work with our partners in the region to ensure continued departures and humanitarian assistance. We must also help welcome our Afghan allies to their new homes around the globe, and here in the United States. Today, a brutal conflict ends, but the debt of gratitude to the courageous men and women who served and made the ultimate sacrifice to complete this mission, will forever be owed by our nation." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3325 Rep. Frankel Statement on Mask Mandate Ruling 2021-08-27 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Rep. Lois Frankel (FL-21) issued the following statement after Leon County Circuit Judge John Cooper ruled in favor of parents seeking to overturn Governor DeSantis ban on mask mandates in schools. “This decision confirms the common sense and legal decision of the Palm Beach County School Board to require students to wear masks with limited exceptions,” said Rep. Frankel. “Keeping our children in a safe, healthy environment for learning is a top priority for most Americans.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3326 Rep. Frankel Highlights Mortgage and Rental Assistance for Palm Beach County Residents Despite Supreme Court Decision 2021-08-27 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) issued the following statement after the Supreme Court overturned President Biden’s eviction moratorium. “No parent should have to worry about exposing their child to COVID-19 because they fell behind on rent,” said Rep. Frankel. “Despite the Supreme Court’s decision to allow evictions to proceed, the good news is that help is available for those who are struggling through federal money provided to Palm Beach County.” Palm Beach County has been dispersing rental assistance since December and has helped over 5,700 families stay in their homes while paying landlords their rent through the county’s rental assistance portal. The portal remains open and additional assistance is available for residents who meet eligibility requirements. Applicants can also call 561-355-4792. The State of Florida has also opened a separate rental assistance portal, which can be accessed here. The county is also offering mortgage assistance to eligible persons. That application portal is open now until September 7th. Mortgage holders should also check with their lenders for options to delay loan payments without penalty. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403688 Rep. Castor: Florida Health Workers Overburdened While Gov. DeSantis Still Refuses to Issue Covid19 Emergency Order 2021-08-26 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper On August 11, in response to reports of understaffed and at-capacity hospitals in the Tampa Bay area, Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) urged Governor Ron DeSantis to reissue a Covid19 emergency order to allow more flexibility for a surge of nurses and medical professionals from out-of-state to treat patients as well as stabilize costs for our health facilities. “Florida is in the midst of a Covid19 public health emergency with a record number of cases since the pandemic began. 1 in 5 Covid deaths nationwide are occurring in Florida, and our hospitals, doctors and nurses are overwhelmed. An NBC report from St. Joseph’s in Tampa underscores the grim reality at hospitals across our state – there are not enough beds or staff to care for the skyrocketing number of individuals contracting serious Covid19 cases. “Once more, I am strongly urging Governor DeSantis to use his emergency powers to bring more medical professionals and resources to Florida as soon as possible. There is no time to waste. I have been urging the Governor to act on this for weeks, but he has refused. His failure to encourage public health protocols and vaccinations, and to use his full authority to aid hospitals and medical professionals is costing lives. “An emergency order would allow for suspension of certain requirements on out-of-state health professionals and enable the state to better coordinate staffing needs for hospitals to combat price gouging by staffing agencies and burnout by our medical professionals. There are medical professionals ready and willing to come and serve in Florida, but arbitrary regulations hinder that possibility… this is frustrating and easily fixable. With the stroke of a pen, Governor DeSantis could alleviate some of the burden on our hospital staff and ensure Floridians are receiving the medical care they need. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3322 Rep. Frankel Statement on Terrorist Attack in Afghanistan 2021-08-26 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement in response to the terrorist attack outside the Kabul airport which killed and injured dozens of people, including U.S. servicemembers. “I join those condemning the horrific attacks that claimed so many innocent lives, including those of American servicemembers. As the mother of a U.S. Marine veteran who served in Afghanistan, my heart is grieving for the families of those who were injured or killed,” said Rep. Frankel. “Like so many Americans, I am grateful to our military, and our diplomatic and intelligence communities for their courage and patriotism.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403686 Rep. Castor Applauds House Passage of John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act 2021-08-25 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Kathy Castor C001066 castor.house.gov castor https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx scraper On Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) voted in support of H.R. 4, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, to restore the critical protections of the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA). H.R. 4 would prevent states, including Florida, and localities from restricting the right to vote. Rep. Castor’s remarks on the House Floor can be found here. “As Florida and other states continue to enact restrictive, anti-voter laws, it’s more important than ever to fully restore the vital protections of the Voting Rights Act and improve access to the ballot box for our neighbors,” said Rep. Castor. “Today, in honor of my late, great friend John Lewis and countless other Civil Rights leaders, the House voted to restore the full promise of our democracy for all Americans. “Following the 2013 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Shelby County v. Holder, states including Florida have engaged in blatant voter suppression campaigns, voter roll purges and created insidious barriers to the voting booth, especially for our neighbors of color. Americans should not be subjected to harmful and unreasonable voting restrictions, and passage of H.R. 4 will make great strides to secure the sacred right to vote for generations to come.” H.R. 4 restores Section 4 of the VRA by establishing a modern-day formula that requires states and localities with a recent history of voter discrimination to seek approval from the U.S. Department of Justice before making changes to their voting laws. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act also: 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-introduces-bipartisan-bills-encourage-consumer-protection-and-regulatory Soto Introduces Bipartisan Bills to Encourage Consumer Protection and Regulatory Competitive Developments Within the US Virtual Currency Market 2021-08-25 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Darren Soto S001200 soto.house.gov soto https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Darren Soto (D-FL-09) introduced two bipartisan bills, the Virtual Currency Consumer Protection Act of 2021 and the U.S. Virtual Currency Market and Regulatory Competitiveness Act of 2021, to help prevent virtual currency price manipulation and position the United States to be a leader in the cryptocurrency industry. "Virtual currencies and the underlying blockchain technology have a profound potential to be a driver of economic growth. That's why we must ensure that the United States is at the forefront of protecting consumers and the financial well-being of virtual currency investors, while also promoting an environment of innovation to maximize the potential of these technological advances," said Congressman Soto. "These bills will provide data on how Congress can best mitigate these risks while propelling development that benefits our economy." The Virtual Currency Consumer Protection Act of 2021 directs the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to describe how price manipulation could happen in virtual markets and make recommendations for regulatory changes to improve the CFTC's price manipulation prevention procedures. The U.S. Virtual Currency Market and Regulatory Competitiveness Act of 2021, co-sponsored by Rep. Tom Emmer (R-MN-06), directs the CFTC to conduct a comparative study of the regulation of virtual currency in other countries and make recommendations for regulatory changes to promote competitiveness in the U.S. by providing regulatory clarity and examining alternatives for current burdensome regulations that may inhibit innovation. Both bills are also co-sponsored by Reps. Ted Budd (R-NC-13), Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), and Warren Davidson (R-OH-08). They direct the CFTC and other financial regulators to make critical recommendations to improve the regulatory environment for both the consumer and business development sides. These pieces of legislation are crucial in light of concerns raised in the New York Attorney General's recent report on virtual exchang… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3320 Rep. Frankel Statement on Passage of Build Back Better Budget Resolution 2021-08-24 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after voting to advance President Biden’s Build Back Better Plan. “Today’s vote paves the way for President Biden’s Build Back Better plan, a transformative agenda that will deliver more jobs, tax cuts for working families, and lower costs for everyday Americans,” said Rep. Frankel. “The legislation makes access to child and home care more affordable while creating thousands of good jobs in the care industry. It expands the Child Tax Credit to deliver an extended tax cut for working families, and lowers the cost of prescription drugs. I look forward to voting for the final bill later this year.” Now that the budget resolution has passed in both Chambers, the House Budget Committee will finalize the text of the bill, which will then come to the floor in the coming months. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3321 Rep. Frankel Statement on Passage of John Lewis Voting Rights Act 2021-08-24 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after voting to pass H.R. 4, The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which will restore the power of the Voting Rights Act to protect the right to vote. “We have seen a relentless assault on our democracy, with more than a dozen states, including Florida, taking steps to make it more difficult for people to vote,” said Rep. Frankel. “This bill sets the stage to prevent and challenge those who restrict access to the ballot box. It honors the legacy of the late, great John Lewis, and the many other civil rights leaders who put their lives on the line to make sure that all American voices are heard. I urge the Senate to take up and pass this legislation immediately.” The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act passed the House by a vote of 219-212. It now goes to the Senate for consideration. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3319 Rep. Frankel Statement on FDA Full Approval of First COVID-19 Vaccine 2021-08-23 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced full approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine. “The FDA’s approval of a COVID-19 vaccine underscores what we have known for a long time: that the shots are safe, effective, and the best way to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community,” said Rep. Frankel. “My hope is that this approval could help anyone who was reluctant to get the vaccine have confidence in its safety and encourage more employers to require rigorous testing requirements or proof of vaccination for their employees.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3317 Rep. Frankel Statement on State Board of Education Withholding Salaries of School Board Members over Mask Mandates 2021-08-20 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement in response to the State board of Education withholding the salaries of local school board members over mask mandates. “This is getting beyond ridiculous,” said Rep. Frankel. “Punishing school board members who are trying to keep our children safe is another dangerous action by the Governor and his political cronies.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3314 Rep. Frankel Statement on DeSantis Pushing COVID Treatment Over Prevention 2021-08-19 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement in response to Governor DeSantis’ stop in West Palm Beach to promote the treatment of COVID-19 with Regeneron. “Regeneron is an expensive, experimental COVID-19 treatment, and access to it should be part of our response to this virus. With that said it is urgent that we be more focused on prevention, especially since we know there are steps that we can take to stop people from getting COVID-19 in the first place,” said Rep. Frankel. “That means following CDC guidelines on mask wearing and social distancing, and most importantly, making sure that every eligible person gets their COVID-19 vaccine.” Vaccination sites can be found at vaccines.gov. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3315 Rep. Frankel Announces Start of Annual Congressional App Challenge 2021-08-19 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) announced the start of the annual Congressional App Challenge for students from Palm Beach County and around the country. The yearly program encourages middle and high school students to learn to code and inspires them to pursue careers in computer science. “Getting students invested in STEM at a young age sets them on the path to varied and exciting jobs one day,” said Rep. Frankel. “I’m always impressed by the talent displayed by all the students who participate in this exercise, and I look forward to seeing this year’s submissions.” Every year, Members of Congress invite students who live in their districts to create and submit original apps for a chance to win the Congressional App Challenge. Last year’s local winner created an app that connects users in need of emotional support to uplifting conversations over text message. Representatives publicly recognize their winning teams, and each winning app may be put on display in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year. Applications are due November 1st, students can apply here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3316 Rep. Frankel Announces Leadership Opportunity for Palm Beach County Students 2021-08-19 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) announced a new opportunity for high school students in Palm Beach County. Local juniors and seniors that want to get a glimpse of how the government works and hear from experts on various topics of interest are invited to apply to this year’s Congressional Youth Leadership Council. “I look forward to working with our local students as they learn and grow,” said Rep. Frankel. “This will be an exciting opportunity of civic engagement for our teens.” The Council is an initiative that was created at the request of local high school students. It will give students the opportunity to learn more about Congress and the policy-making process. Council members will hear from community leaders and discuss issues that matter most to them. The students selected to form part of the Council will meet monthly with the Congresswoman, her staff, and guest speakers facilitated by the office of Rep. Frankel, all while following CDC guidelines. Students may receive community service hours or credits toward graduation for their participation. In addition to discussing how a Congressional office operates, students will also participate in professional development opportunities, including how-to seminars on writing cover letters and resumes, and interview skills that will improve their skill sets for future endeavors. The Council begins October 13th and ends in April 2022. Applications are open through September 30th. For more information, click here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3311 Rep. Frankel Announces Opening of Military Academy Nomination Process 2021-08-17 2021 2021-08 Democrat House FL Lois Frankel F000462 frankel.house.gov frankel https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) announced the beginning of the military academy nomination process for the upcoming academic year. As a Member of Congress, Rep. Frankel has the distinct privilege of nominating students from Florida’s 21st Congressional District to some of America’s most prestigious military academies, including: The U.S. Naval Academy, The U.S. Military Academy, The U.S. Air Force Academy, The Merchant Marine Academy, and The U.S. Coast Guard Academy*. “As a mother of a U.S. Marine War Veteran and the daughter of a U.S. Coast Guard Veteran, I have a deep appreciation of our men and women in uniform,” said Rep. Frankel. “I am honored to have the opportunity to nominate the best and brightest from our community to our nation’s military academies and wish this year’s applicants the best of luck.” The academies provide a tuition-free, four-year undergraduate education and prepare successful applicants to be officers of the U.S. uniform services. The honor of attending a service academy comes with an obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. To apply for nomination, please send an email to Trevor.Fleming@mail.house.gov. Applications are due by October 31st, 2021. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:11:17Z

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