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

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2,228 rows where party = "Republican", state = "FL" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending

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  • 2020 · 2,228 ✖

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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://www.rickscott.senate.gov/el-senador-rick-scott-aplaude-la-distribucion-de-casi-20-millones-de-dosis-de-vacunas-los-estados El Senador Rick Scott aplaude la distribución de casi 20 millones de dosis de vacunas a los estados 2020-12-31 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Rick Scott S001217 www.rickscott.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. El Senador Rick Scott hizo hoy la siguiente declaracin aplaudiendo el esfuerzo del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de distribuir casi 20 millones de dosis de vacunas a los estados en solo cuatro semanas. A la Florida se le habrn asignado 1.28 millones de dosis de vacunas para la prxima semana. 175,000 floridanos recibieron la primera dosis de la vacuna al 30 de diciembre, segn inform el Departamento de Salud de la Florida. En noviembre, el Senador Scott escribi una carta al secretario del HHS, Alex Azar, solicitando informacin sobre los planes de los estados para asegurar una distribucin de vacunas rpida, confiable y equitativa. Una planificacin y coordinacin detallada en todos los niveles de gobierno es necesaria para asegurar que los estadounidenses reciban la vacuna de manera segura, eficiente y sin demoras. El Senador Rick Scott dijo: Estoy orgulloso del arduo trabajo de tantos en la Administracin para desarrollar y distribuir rpidamente esta vacuna a los estados. El HHS le ha enviado a nuestros estados millones de dosis de vacunas este mes. La prioridad ahora debe ser asegurarnos de que las personas mayores y las poblaciones en riesgo, as como nuestros trabajadores de la salud, tengan acceso a la vacuna primero. Es por eso que mi equipo y yo tomamos la decisin de esperar para recibir la vacuna en el momento apropiado, y he pedido que la asignacin de mi oficina se d a las poblaciones vulnerables que ms necesitan la vacuna. No tendremos xito hasta que todos los que quieran una vacuna puedan recibirla. Todos los estados necesitan un proceso ordenado y transparente para sacar estas vacunas, y deben hacerlo ya. No hay excusas. " ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-urges-ftc-investigation-zooms-relationship-communist-china Sen. Rick Scott Urges FTC Investigation into Zoom’s Relationship with Communist China 2020-12-31 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Rick Scott S001217 www.rickscott.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter urging the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to further investigate Zoom's relationship to Communist China and the risks it poses to Americans' security. This letter follows the Department of Justice's recent announcement that a former Zoom executive had been charged for coordinating with the Communist Party of China to target U.S.-based dissidents and disrupt video meetings commemorating the June 4, 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre. Read the Senator's letter HERE or below. December 30, 2020 Joseph J. Simons Chairman Federal Trade Commission 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20580 Dear Chairman Simons: As a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, I write today to urgently request a full investigation into Communist China's growing influence and interference in social telecommunications technology, including companies like Zoom, and what more can be done to protect Americans' personal identifying information. Earlier this month, the United States Department of Justice revealed that a former Zoom executive, Xinjiang Jin, had been charged for coordinating with the Communist Party of China (CCP) to target U.S.-based dissidents and disrupt video meetings commemorating the June 4, 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre. This is just the latest example of how Communist China uses personal identifying data collected by tech companies with a significant presence in China against American citizens. Communist China's efforts to silence anyone who dares to oppose the CCP is shameful, and it's even more alarming that it happened right here in the United States. This cannot be tolerated. For years, the CCP has done everything possible to become the dominant world power. Communist China has long been accused of forced technology transfers, data localization, and spying on U.S. citizens using Chinese-based companies like TikTok and WeChat, which are obligated by law to hand over data to the CCP. The American people deserve to know exactly how… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/senator-rick-scott-applauds-distribution-nearly-20-million-vaccine-doses-states Senator Rick Scott Applauds the Distribution of Nearly 20 Million Vaccine Doses to States 2020-12-31 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Rick Scott S001217 www.rickscott.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott released the below statement applauding the effort by Health and Human Services to get nearly 20 million doses of vaccines to states in four weeks. Florida will have been allocated 1.28 million doses of the vaccines by the end of next week. 175,000 Floridians received the first dose of the vaccine as of December 30, as reported by the Florida Department of Health. In November, Senator Scott wrote a letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar requesting information on the states' plans for fast, reliable and equitable vaccine distribution. Detailed planning and coordination at every level of government will be required to get the vaccine to Americans safely and efficiently without unnecessary delays. Senator Rick Scottsaid, I'm proud of the hard work by so many in the Administration to develop and quickly distribute this vaccine to the states. HHS has sent our states millions of doses of vaccines this month. The priority now must be to make sure the elderly and at-risk populations, as well as our healthcare workers, have access to thevaccinefirst. That's why my staff and I made the decision to wait to get thevaccineat the appropriate time, and I've asked that my office's allotment be given to vulnerable populations that need thevaccinemost. We aren't successful until everyone who wants a vaccine can get one. Everystate needs an orderly, transparent process for getting these vaccines out, and they need to do it now. There is no excuse. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases-es?ContentRecord_id=64671013-E220-4E46-B573-5F1D2E0668C4 Rubio: Apoyo Los Pagos de $2000 Dlares a Los Necesitados 2020-12-28 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Sala de Prensa Inicio Sala de Prensa Sala de Prensa Miami, FL El senador estadounidense Marco Rubio (R-FL) emiti el siguiente comunicado sobre su apoyo de aumentar el monto del Pago de Alivio por el Impacto Econmico (EIP, por sus siglas en ingls) a los estadounidenses de $600 dlares a $2,000 dlares:"Estoy de acuerdo con el presidente en que millones de familias de la clase trabajadora necesitan urgentemente ayuda adicional, razn por la cual apoyo el monto de $2,000 dlares en pagos directos a los estadounidenses que luchan durante la pandemia, Rubio dijo. Por meses, los republicanos intentaron aprobar un alivio adicional para los trabajadores, las familias y los pequeos comercios, solo para ser rechazados por los demcratas en todo momento. No podemos olvidar que hace meses la presidenta Pelosi y los demcratas rechazaron la oferta anterior de la Administracin Trump de $1,200 dlares por adulto y $1,000 dlares por nio. Afortunadamente, por fin, Pelosi deja de retener a las familias trabajadoras como sus rehenes".Comparto la preocupacin de muchos de mis colegas sobre los efectos a largo plazo del gasto adicional, pero no podemos ignorar el hecho que millones de familias de la clase trabajadora en todo EE.UU. todava necesitan ayuda con urgencia, continu Rubio. "El Congreso debera aprobar rpidamente una legislacin para aumentar los pagos directos a los estadounidenses a $2,000 dlares"."Tambin estoy listo para trabajar con mis colegas para realizar cambios muy necesarios a la Seccin 230 y tomar medidas para asegurarnos que el pueblo estadounidense pueda volver a tener confianza en nuestras elecciones", concluy Rubio.Rubio introducir una legislacin para mantener las protecciones de la … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=2ED5EDD7-1C6B-4041-B86B-96348A28D221 Rubio Urges Department of the Interior to Address Supply Chain Reliance on Rare Earth Minerals From China 2020-12-28 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) urged U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary David Bernhardt to take action addressing China's domination of the rare earth element supply chain in response to President Trump's September 30, 2020 Executive Order, Addressing the Threat to the Domestic Supply Chain from Reliance on Critical Minerals from Foreign Adversaries.In addition to Rubio, Representatives Jason Smith (R-MO), Paul Gosar (R-AZ), David McKinley (R-WV), Chris Stewart (R-UT), and Pete Stauber (R-MN) signed the letter.The President's Executive Order rightly recognizes that the United States now imports more than 80 percent of our rare earth elements (REE) from China, a marked shift from an earlier era in which the United States produced more REE than any other nation in the world, the lawmakers wrote. The United States has some of the highest quality and abundant rare earth element deposits in the world. However, China has intentionally underpriced usable REE metals to extinguish global competition in the REE metallurgy sector. China's strategy ensures that any REE ores mined and processed in the United States, or elsewhere, must be sent to China to be made into usable metals and materials. The President's Order recognizes this dynamic, and the great harm that this dependence on China for processing capacity does to American national security and economic resilience.The full text of the letter is below.Dear Secretary Bernhardt:We write to express our shared concern about America's dangerous reliance on foreign sources for critical minerals. We welcome the President's September 30, 2020, Executive Order Addressing the Threat to the Domestic Supply Chain from Reliance on Critical Min… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F2E570A9-9BF7-445E-B859-C2D3EF4EFD82 English/ Espaol: Rubio: I Support $2000 Payments to Americans in Need 2020-12-28 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement regarding his support for increasing the amount of Economic Impact Payments (EIP) to Americans in need from $600 to $2,000:I agree with the President that millions of working class families are in dire need of additional relief, which is why I support $2,000 in direct payments to Americans struggling due to the pandemic, Rubio said. For months, Republicans tried to pass additional relief for workers, families, and small businesses only to be rejected by Democrats at every turn. Remember, months ago Speaker Pelosi and Democrats rejected the Administration's previous offer of $1,200 per adult and $1,000 per child. Thankfully, she's finally stopped holding working families hostage.I share many of my colleagues' concern about the long-term effects of additional spending, but we cannot ignore the fact that millions of working class families across the nation are still in dire need of relief, Rubio continued. Congress should quickly pass legislation to increase direct payments to Americans to $2,000.I also stand ready to work with my colleagues to make much-needed changes to Section 230 and take steps to ensure the American people can once again have confidence in our elections, Rubio concluded.Rubio will introduce legislation to maintain Section 230 protections for small businesses and companies that protect free speech, but remove that blanket immunity for Big Tech companies that engage in certain moderation, selective distribution, or content development activities.In June 2020, Rubio, along with Senators Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Josh Hawley (R-MO) requested that the Federal Communication Commissi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://steube.house.gov/media/press-releases/steube-opposes-unnecessary-redistribution-wealth-covid-relief-legislation Steube Opposes Unnecessary Redistribution of Wealth in COVID Relief Legislation 2020-12-28 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Greg Steube S001214 steube.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today voted against H.R. 9051, the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help Act of 2020. We understand the economic hardship inflicted by COVID-19, but Americans don't need inadequate stimulus checks and forced government dependency to get them back on their feet, Steube said. Rather than prolonging economic suffering with failing, irresponsible legislation, our country needs to follow the lead of states like Florida and give Americans incentives and the opportunity to return to their jobs and normal lives. This legislation would raise the direct stimulus payments previously passed in COVID-19 relief legislation from $600 to $2,000. However, throughout the pandemic, Congress has already authorized $4.1 trillion in aid to offset the costly and non-scientific lockdown measures. This is coupled with the new debt all Americans have incurred due to historic fiscal irresponsibility. At current spending levels, Congress has already created $2.2 trillion in new debt, which means $18,000 in government debt per household. Stimulus checks have wastefully spent hard earned taxpayer dollars on nearly 150 million Americans who have been employed despite the COVID-19 pandemic. For those who are unemployed or have been forced to shut down their businesses, recent stimulus checks have been insufficient for living wages. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-opposes-unnecessary-redistribution-of-wealth-in-covid-relief-legislation/ Steube Opposes Unnecessary Redistribution of Wealth in COVID Relief Legislation 2020-12-28 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Opposes Unnecessary Redistribution of Wealth in COVID Relief Legislation WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today voted against H.R. 9051, the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help Act of 2020. “We understand the economic hardship inflicted by COVID-19, but Americans don’t need inadequate stimulus checks and forced government dependency to get them back on their feet,” Steube said. “Rather than prolonging economic suffering with failing, irresponsible legislation, our country needs to follow the lead of states like Florida and give Americans incentives and the opportunity to return to their jobs and normal lives.” This legislation would raise the direct stimulus payments previously passed in COVID-19 relief legislation from $600 to $2,000. However, throughout the pandemic, Congress has already authorized $4.1 trillion in aid to offset the costly and non-scientific lockdown measures. This is coupled with the new debt all Americans have incurred due to historic fiscal irresponsibility. At current spending levels, Congress has already created $2.2 trillion in new debt, which means $18,000 in government debt per household. Stimulus checks have wastefully spent hard earned taxpayer dollars on nearly 150 million Americans who have been employed despite the COVID-19 pandemic. For those who are unemployed or have been forced to shut down their businesses, recent stimulus checks have been insufficient for living wages. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://dunn.house.gov/2020/12/congressman-dunn-supports-the-military-with-veto-override Congressman Dunn Supports the Military with Veto Override 2020-12-24 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Neal Dunn D000628 dunn.house.gov     legacy PANAMA CITY, FL Today, Representative Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02) issued the following statement ahead of a House vote to override the executive veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). On Monday, the House will vote to override the executive veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Following doctors' advice, who are currently treating me for issues related to my existing asthma and a case of pneumonia, I will not be traveling to Washington for that vote as my recovery continues. I fully support the NDAA bill. It is one of the most critical pieces of legislation that Congress must pass each year, supporting our men and women in uniform and the defense of our nation. This year's bill further cements the rebuild of Tyndall Air Force Base and secures its missions for decades to come while supporting the future growth of Naval Support Activity Panama City. For these reasons, I would vote to override the veto if conditions allowed me to be present. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=277 Congressman Dunn Supports the Military with Veto Override 2020-12-24 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Neal P. Dunn D000628 dunn.house.gov dunn https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper PANAMA CITY, FL – Today, Representative Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02) issued the following statement ahead of a House vote to override the executive veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). “On Monday, the House will vote to override the executive veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Following doctors’ advice, who are currently treating me for issues related to my existing asthma and a case of pneumonia, I will not be traveling to Washington for that vote as my recovery continues. I fully support the NDAA bill. It is one of the most critical pieces of legislation that Congress must pass each year, supporting our men and women in uniform and the defense of our nation. This year’s bill further cements the rebuild of Tyndall Air Force Base and secures its missions for decades to come while supporting the future growth of Naval Support Activity Panama City. For these reasons, I would vote to override the veto if conditions allowed me to be present.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=12394498-DAA7-4B0B-98F1-1B31C5F1B0DB Rubio Secures Key Provisions Related to China in Year-End Funding Package 2020-12-23 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) continued to build upon his legislative record securing critical provisions and funding related to China in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 omnibus appropriations bill. Among the provisions were language from Rubio's bipartisan and bicameral Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (S.3744) that requires the Secretary of State to determine, within 90 days after enactment, whether the persecution of Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, and members of other Muslim minority groups in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) constitutes atrocities. Additionally, the package included Rubio's Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2019 (S.2539), telecommunications security funding to counter China's state-directed Huawei, and funding to counter malign Chinese influence.The 21st century will be defined by the U.S.-China relationship, and we must take action to address the imbalances in the relationship, as well as the systematic human rights abuses committed by the Chinese Communist Party, Rubio said. I am proud of the important work we've accomplished with both my Democrat and Republican colleagues, including the critical provisions that were included in the year-end funding bill, to hold the Chinese government and Communist Party accountable. Bringing reciprocity to our dealings with China and ending the crimes of the CCP is the geopolitical challenge of this century and is the responsibility of democracies worldwide. I look forward to building upon my record of enacting laws that do just that.As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Rubio secured a provision to prohibit any entity or owner of an entity in China, companies with PRC resid… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A02DB9FF-881F-42B9-8F34-89F33084A109 WTAS: Key Rubio Provisions in COVID-19 Small Business Package Garner Praise 2020-12-23 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases The U.S. Chamber applauds the work of Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship Chairman Marco Rubio and Ranking Member Ben Cardin to ensure struggling small business owners obtain the funds necessary to keep their teams employed and survive the pandemic, said Tom Sullivan, Vice President for Small Business Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The small business provisions in stimulus legislation awaiting the President's signature represent a truly bipartisan effort by Senate and House small business committees. The ability to break through partisan gridlock and provide aid to America's Main Street employers bodes well for an economic recovery in the new year.Small business owners and entrepreneurs desperately need capital and certainty right now, and the funding provisions in the relief package will help many of them tap into a pool of capital that will help to maintain jobs and bolster local economies, said Karen Kerrigan, President & CEO, SBE Council. We are grateful that PPP will resume with needed changes to provide small businesses with flexibility and support, additional capital for businesses that need it, and remove some of the uncertainties around PPP like deductibility of forgiven expenses.The action taken by Congress today will keep tens of thousands of restaurants from closing in the coming months, said Tom Ben, President & CEO of the National Restaurant Association. A second round of PPP, combined with unique enhancements for the restaurant sector, will provide critical access to capital.The legislation contains many of the provisions AHLA has advocated for, including a second round of Paycheck Protection Program loans, increasing the size of PPP loans to 3.… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-diaz-balart-chabot-reschenthaler-spearhead-resolution-supporting Reps. Diaz-Balart, Chabot, Reschenthaler Spearhead Resolution Supporting Free Trade with Taiwan 2020-12-23 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­­–– Congressmen Mario Diaz-Balart, Steve Chabot (OH-1), and Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14) introduced H. Res. 1268, which expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should initiate negotiations to enter into a free trade agreement with Taiwan. This legislation is a critical step toward building a stronger diplomatic partnership with Taiwan, expanding economic growth and job creation through increased access to markets in the Indo-Pacific region, and countering the Chinese Communist Party's hostilities towards Taiwan. Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA), the author of the legislation, and 25 Senate Republicans introduced this resolution in the Senate. "Taiwan is a strong friend and democratic ally of the United States, and I support efforts to further strengthen that relationship with deepened economic ties,"said Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart."While the PRC continues to bully and threaten its neighbors, Taiwan has nonetheless thrived as an economic powerhouse and responsible partner on a variety of key priorities including public health, democracy promotion, and trade. Working toward a free trade agreement with Taiwan will strengthen this crucial relationship and enable Taiwan to better withstand the barrage of threats and hostility from the PRC." "As a longtime proponent of a U.S.-Taiwan free trade agreement, I am pleased to support this important legislation put forward by Congressman Reschenthaler,"said Congressman Chabot."Taiwan is one of our top trading partners, and consolidating our economic partnership will bring both economic and strategic benefits to both of our countries. Earlier this fall, President Tsai took bold action to address longstanding barriers to U.S. agricultural imports. It is critical that the United States Trade Representatives build on this gesture of goodwill before momentum is lost." "As a member of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, I am proud to introduce this critical legislation that supports expanding economic ties between the United States and … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-first-priority-get-vaccine-vulnerable-populations-healthcare-workers Sen. Rick Scott: First Priority is to Get Vaccine to Vulnerable Populations, Healthcare Workers 2020-12-23 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Rick Scott S001217 www.rickscott.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after declining the offer by the Capitol Attending Physician to receive the vaccine for himself and select members of his staff. Senator Rick Scott said, I'm incredibly proud of the hard work by so many Americans that led to the development and distribution of the coronavirus vaccines this month. As we turn the corner on this pandemic, the priority must be to make sure the elderly and at-risk populations, as well as our healthcare workers, have access to the vaccine first. My staff and I will wait to get the vaccine at the appropriate time determined by our personal physicians. I've asked that my office's allotment be given to vulnerable populations that need the vaccine most. I served in the Navy and I learned that it's always important for leaders to put the troops first. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-introduces-stop-covid-19-act Sen. Rick Scott Introduces STOP COVID-19 Act 2020-12-23 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Rick Scott S001217 www.rickscott.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott introduced the Set Testing and Objectives Plan (STOP) COVID-19 Act to create a program for cities and counties to increase testing, contact tracing and transparency efforts in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Senator Rick Scott said, The distribution of the coronavirus vaccine is great news, but we still haven't beaten the coronavirus and we can't let our guard down. As infections continue across the nation, all levels of government must work together on transparent, efficient and measurable ways to contain the spread. The STOP COVID-19 Act creates a program for cities and counties, using metrics-based incentives, to ensure communities are doing everything possible to keep residents safe. The program will be data-focused, so communities know what they are doing well and what they need to work on. We must keep working to end the coronavirus and give Americans as much information as possible, so we can get back to our new normal. The STOP COVID-19 Act would: Create a voluntary, data-driven COVID testing and contact tracing program for cities and counties to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Establish metrics, including positivity rate, contract tracing and test results, to measure the effectiveness of the program. Authorize an 100% federal share for the first two months, using unspent money in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund. That will continue after two months unless the city or county fails to attain the success metrics, then a 25% cost-share would apply. Increase transparency by requiring cities and counties to report testing metrics and community spread, as well as publish easily accessible information about testing locations and availability. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0004ECB0-5468-4E16-9924-6803543C6F59 Rubio and McCaul Call for Strengthening of Entity List Rules for SMIC 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Representative Michael McCaul (R-TX) urged Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross to strengthen rules regarding the Entity Listing for Semiconductor Manufacturing International Company (SMIC)a company with strong ties to the military of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The lawmakers expressed concern that the current rules will not effectively cut SMIC off from U.S. technology and innovation, risking our national security.SMIC is a clear threat to U.S. national security, because of its integration into the defense establishment of the PRC and its national strategy for military-civil fusion, the lawmakers wrote. We are deeply concerned that SMIC's placement on the Entity List by the Bureau of Industry and Security was done for show and parochial commercial interests at the expense of U.S. national security The SMIC Entity List rule must be rewritten immediately to close these dangerous loopholes that would allow nearly all sales to SMIC to continue without restriction and support the CCP's stated goal of military preeminence.Rubio is Cochair of the bipartisan and bicameral Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee that oversees human rights, and a member of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. Representative McCaul is the Lead Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Chairman of the China Task Force.The full text of the letter is below.Dear Secretary Ross:We appreciate the Department of Commerce's designation of 77 companies, including 60 from the People's Republic of China (PRC), to its Entity List to restrict access of… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=26C31FF2-5B50-4B3A-ADC5-2AD537D04813 Rubio Applauds Passage of Legislation to Combat Invasive Species in Conjunction With Everglades Restoration 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) applauded the passage of the Suppressing Looming Invasive Threats Harming Everglades Restoration (SLITHER) Act (S.3603), which was included in the Fiscal Year 2021 omnibus appropriations bill. The SLITHER Act authorizes and directs the South Florida Ecosystem Restoration Task Force to develop innovative technologies and approaches to identify, target, and eliminate invasive animal and plant species that threaten Everglades restoration. Native bird and mammal populations are indicators of whether Everglades restoration is effective. Invasive species, such as the Burmese python, are decimating native animal populations, obfuscating efforts to assess the success of restoration.Everglades restoration has an extraordinary impact on the State of Florida, Rubio said. Not only is the SLITHER Act a positive step forward in combating harmful species that threaten the ecological health of South Florida's ecosystem, but it will also make it easier to measure the progress of state and federal investment in Everglades restoration. I am proud that Congress has passed this legislation, and I remain committed to fighting for policies that protect, improve, and restore Florida's water quality and environment.Background on Rubio's efforts to fix Florida's water quality issues and restore the Everglades can be found here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=33703E49-1A13-488C-8350-0B8EB8AF9281 Rubio, Menendez, Leahy, Coons, Shaheen, Praise Passage of Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) in releasing the following statements after the passage of the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act (S.712), which was included in the Fiscal Year 2021 omnibus appropriations bill.Named in honor of former FBI agent and Floridian Robert Levinson, whose unlawful detention by the Iranian regime left him the longest held hostage in American history, the bipartisan legislation bolsters U.S. government resources to bring back Americans held hostage or unlawfully detained abroad. Levinson is presumed to have died in Iranian custody earlier this year.This bipartisan bill, named in honor of Floridian Bob Levinson, the longest held American hostage who is believed to have died while detained by the brutal regime in Tehran, strengthens our nation's resources to bring back American hostages, Rubio said. We must ensure that no American family will ever endure what the Levinson family went through. I am proud to have co-led this legislation and I look forward to it becoming law.Earlier this year, we learned that Bob Levinson, the longest-held hostage in American history, died while in Iranian custody, far from his loving family, friends and colleagues. In March 2007, after decades of service to the United States, Bob Levinson was cruelly and mysteriously taken from his family, who have spent the past 13 years tirelessly fighting for his safe return home. Their indefatigable dedication to Bob has inspired me and my colleagues over the years to pursue various leg… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3CF1C3DC-FD1D-4ABC-AB42-10BE3E61485A Florida Wins Big in Year-End Spending Measure 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a list of provisions in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 omnibus appropriations bill that will be critical to the State of Florida in the months and years to come.Floridians are rightly frustrated by the gridlock, chaos, and partisanship in Washington, Rubio said. It took far too long for Congress to pass much-needed coronavirus relief and spending bills. But even with the dysfunction, we were able to secure dozens of critically important provisions for the State of Florida and our nation on issues ranging from small business relief and environmental protection to funding our military and combatting China.In addition to another $285 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program, which former Congressional Budget Office Director Doug Holtz-Eakin called the single most effective fiscal policy ever undertaken by the United States Government, the FY 2021 omnibus appropriations bill contained dozens of Rubio-led provisions related to China, the Western Hemisphere, our intelligence community, Florida water resources, and beyond.Critical provisions for the State of Florida in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending bill include:Military Readiness, Training, and Security $1.62 billion for P-8A Poseidon procurement $1.129 billion for F-35A aircraft and report language $525 million for F-35B $10 million in funding for Rapid Advanced Deposition (RAD) $73 million for Iron Dome missile defense funding $18 million for SOUTHCOM MMSV operations costs from their UFR $8.5 million for SOUTHCOM Overland Airborne ISR from their UFR $45 million for a SOF Special Tactics Ops Facility at Hurlburt Field $38 million for a SOF Combat Aircraft Parking Apron at H… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=4777B151-1919-4BDC-B6BC-BB9A464190AD Rubio, Schatz, Scott, Hirono Applaud Passage of Restoring Resilient Reefs Act 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement after the Senate passed his bipartisan Restoring Resilient Reefs Act (S. 2429). First introduced in August 2019 with Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL) and Jenniffer Gonzlez-Coln (R-PR), the Restoring Resilient Reefs Act would reauthorize and modernize the Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2000, strengthen NOAA's Coral Reef program, and give innovative new tools and resources to the non-federal partners who are closest to the crisis in American coral reefs: states, territories, and local communities.The Coral Reef Conservation Act, which expired more than 15 years ago, was designed to promote the conservation of our nation's reefs. In recent years, the decline in the nation's coral reefs has only become more severe. The Restoring Resilient Reefs Act directs federal funding and technical assistance to states for the restoration and management of coral reef ecosystems, while incentivizing increased state and local investment in coral reef management capacity. The bill encourages innovative public-private Coral Reef Stewardship Partnerships among agencies, research centers, and community stakeholders; codifies and updates the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force; ensures that our national coral strategy is informed by a robust local stakeholder engagement process; and allows for emergency grants for coral disasters, among other measures.I saw the devastated condition of our coral reefs firsthand when touring the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, and I promised a comprehensive response, Rubio said. I am grateful the U.S. Senate came together to p… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7AB71E63-0F70-4203-801A-340CF77D818D Rubio and Merkley Applaud Inclusion of Their Provision to Require Administration to Determine Whether Crimes Against Uyghurs Constitute Atrocities 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) welcomed the inclusion of a critical provision in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending bill that requires the Secretary of State to determine, within 90 days after enactment, whether the persecution of Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, and members of other Muslim minority groups in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) constitutes atrocities. Similar language is also included in their bipartisan and bicameral Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (S.3744, H.R.6210). Evidence is mounting of the horrific and systematic human rights abuses and crimes against Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim minorities by the CCP in Xinjiang, Rubio said. It is time for the U.S. government to clearly assess the evidence and issue a formal determination of the atrocities. Yesterday, the U.S. Senate took a stand in support of justice, and I hope the Trump Administration and any future administrations will be clear about the nature of these crimes and hold those responsible accountable. I also urge free nations to do the same and recognize these atrocities for what they are. The Chinese Communist Party is committing crimes against humanity in Xinjiangand we can't stay silent in the face of those atrocities, Merkley said. You can't fix a problem without naming it, and it's a positive step that this legislation will require the U.S. government to assess this behavior for what it is. Now we must continue the fight, and do all that we can to hold the CCP accountable for its horrific actions. Forced labor, arbitrary detention, intrusive surveillance and policing, political indoctrination, and forced cultural assimilation of ethnic minorities should have no place anywhere in the world. Rubio is Co-Chair of the bipartisan and bicameral Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations' Subcommittee that oversees human rights, and is a member of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7E1537A5-F952-4814-98F0-B98FC6C27E32 Rubio Applauds Inclusion of Western Hemisphere Initiatives in Year-End Spending Measure 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) welcomed the inclusion of multiple Western Hemisphere initiatives in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 omnibus appropriations bill. As Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations' Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere and as a member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Rubio has helped secure key funding to advance economic and rural development initiatives in Latin America, as well as secured funding for the support of democracy in Cuba and Venezuela, as well as for the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (OCB). It also included Rubio's required report language on Cuba's use of foreign medical missions, which constitute a form of modern day slavery.The United States remains a reliable partner to countries facing severe challenges in our hemisphere, Rubio said. Whether by providing security assistance and training, to funding initiatives that deter violence against women and children in El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala, or continuing to support the efforts of the Office of Cuba Broadcasting and democracy programs for Venezuela and Cuba, I remain committed to leading efforts and working with my colleagues in support of a safer and more democratic region.Critical Western Hemisphere provisions, supported by Rubio, included in the Fiscal Year 2021 omnibus appropriations bill: Compact language from the Central American Women and Children Protection Act of 2019. Latin America and the Caribbean: Requires the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to expand engagement in Latin America and the Caribbean that spurs private sector investment in initiatives to increase distributed energy generation systems and expands economic opportunities with… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=92E0E927-505B-4269-BB4B-09CEBD5A4D0D Rubio Releases Critical Provisions for Florida in Additional COVID-19 Relief Package 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a list of provisions in the $900 billion COVID-19 relief package that will be critical to the State of Florida during the coronavirus pandemic. These important provisions include relief to workers, families, and small businesses impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and state and local lockdowns, including Rubio's $325 billion small business relief package that includes nearly $285 billion for a second round of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help the hardest-hit small businesses.This past year, Americans all across the country have had their lives, jobs, and communities upended by a global pandemic that has claimed the lives of far too many, Rubio said. While I am confident that there are brighter days ahead and that Americans will persevere, it's clear that people need help right now. Although I believe Congress could have acted much sooner to provide additional relief to the American people, I am grateful that Congress was once again able to act in an overwhelmingly bipartisan manner to help workers, families, and small businesses.The package also extends a number of unemployment provisions in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act until March 14, 2021, that would otherwise expire at the end of the year. Additionally, the COVID-19 relief package includes Rubio and Senator Thom Tillis's (R-NC) American Citizen Coronavirus Relief Act (S.4071) to ensure that a U.S. citizen is eligible to receive an Economic Impact Payment (EIP) if he or she is married to a foreign national who is not currently a citizen of the United States.Critical provisions for the State of Florida in the COVID-19 relief package incl… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A66A0A1A-C6EF-46AA-8270-C7C6EED45A5E Rubio Secures Record Everglades Funding, Critical Water Projects in Spending Bill 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement after Congress agreed to appropriate $250 million for South Florida Ecosystem Restoration, which funds a suite of Everglades projects, including the Central Everglades Planning Project, in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 omnibus appropriations bill. Rubio, a member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, previously secured $200 million in FY 2020 federal appropriations for Everglades restoration, a three-fold increase from the previous fiscal year. After decades of delays and underfunding, it is clear there is now an overwhelming bipartisan commitment to restoring our nation's Everglades, Rubio said. I am grateful to the President, the Governor, and all my colleagues in the House and Senate for their tireless efforts, and I look forward to working to further advance restoration efforts in the months and years to come so we can finally deliver on these long overdue promises of a healthy, thriving ecosystem in Florida. The FY 2021 omnibus appropriations bill also includes the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). Rubio secured numerous key provisions in WRDA 2020, including authorization and funding for critical U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects related to Everglades restoration, beach renourishment, flood control, and environmental protection. Not only does this bill authorize a number of projects that will benefit Florida, but it includes language to fix the bureaucratic mess that has caused unnecessary delays to the construction of the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Storage Reservoir, Rubio continued. The EAA reservoir is a critical piece of infrastructure that will move Everglades restoration forward and reduce the threat that harmful discharges from Lake Okeechobee pose to our coastal communities. Overall, the Water Resources Development Act takes significant steps to improve Florida's ecosystems, ports, flood-prevention infrastructure, reservoirs, and water systems. A detailed list of Florida-related WRDA 202… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=C349109B-9EFF-4964-AA42-FD2F6DEA05FC Rubio Applauds House Passage of Bill to Extend Bankruptcy Judgeships 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) applauded the House passage of legislation to extend 25 temporary bankruptcy judgeships across the country including two in Florida for five years. Rubio joined Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Chris Coons (D-DE) in introducing the bill earlier this month. The bill previously passed in the Senate on December 9, 2020, and it will now head to the President for signature.In addition to Rubio, Coons, and Graham, Senators Tom Carper (D-DE), Ben Cardin (D-MD), and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) cosponsored the legislation.As America's businesses struggle with the challenges of operating during the COVID-19 pandemic, the ability for businesses to efficiently reorganize in bankruptcy is critical, Rubio said. Any obstacle to resolving these cases is an undue burden for both our judicial system and businesses. This legislation ensures that our courts have the resources necessary to manage these critical caseloads.This legislation will better equip our bankruptcy system, helping courts, businesses and consumers by allowing these cases to be addressed in a timely manner, Graham said. I'm glad to see these important changes passed into law.Businesses and individuals are facing profound financial stress as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and this bipartisan bill will ensure they can go through bankruptcy efficiently, Coons said. When they can't, jobs and revenue are lost. Delaware has earned its reputation for having one of the most highly regarded bankruptcy courts in the country, and this law ensures that our court has the resources it will need to manage pressing caseloads and provide relief to businesses and employees.In these challenging times, our leg… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=E72EBBDC-9F6F-46AA-9427-63AD6A679C51 Rubio, Cardin, Risch, Feinstein Welcome Passage of Their Bipartisan Bill in Support of Tibet 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Jim Risch (R-ID), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), welcomed the passage of their bipartisan Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2019 (S.2539). The legislation, included in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending bill, seeks to update and strengthen the Tibetan Policy Act of 2002 to address emerging human rights, religious freedom, and other challenges faced by the Tibetan people. Representative Jim McGovern (D-MA) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives (H.R. 4331). Rubio is Co-Chair of the bipartisan and bicameral Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations' Subcommittee that oversees human rights, and is a member of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. Passage of the Tibetan Policy and Support Act sends an important message that the United States stands with the Tibetan people and against any effort by the Chinese Communist Party to interfere with the religious process of identifying Tibetan Buddhist leaders, such as the Dalai Lama, Rubio said. We must continue to shine a light on the grave assaults against the Tibetan people's religion, culture, and language by the Chinese Communist government, both inside Tibet and outside the PRC. I applaud the passage of this bipartisan legislation and urge the State Department to use the tools it provides to address escalating human rights abuses in Tibet. Bipartisan passage of the Tibet Policy and Support Act sends a strong message to Chinese officials that the U.S. will not stay silent in the face of inference in the Tibetan Buddhist practices, including the deeply spiritual process of selecting the next Dalai Lama. Such actions will be met with consequences, such as the possibility of targeted Global Magnitsky sanctions, Cardin said. Congress stands united in its support for the human rights, religious freedom and genuine autonom… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6B62A775-52AD-4DA2-934E-D813C775DFE4 At Mast’s Urging, Congress Delivers Historic Funding For Everglades Restoration 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Brian Mast M001199 mast.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) today released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the FY2021 budget, which includes $250 million in funding for Everglades restoration: This is a historic vote for Everglades restoration and stopping harmful discharges, Rep. Mast said. This record-setting funding is exactly what we need to accelerate restoration projects and send more water south where Mother Nature intended it to go! In 2019, Rep. Mast convinced the White House and Congress to pass an appropriations package with $200 million in funding for Everglades restoration. Earlier this year, Rep. Mast sent a letter to President Trump urging his Administration to request $250 million for Everglades funding in his budget. This year's budget, which includes the additional $50 million, builds on Rep. Mast's track record of success and brings the total to a record-setting $250 million. A full timeline of Rep. Mast's efforts to secure Everglades funding during the 116th Congress is available here. This appropriations bill has also passed the Senate and is expected to be signed into law by President Donald Trump in the coming days. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://steube.house.gov/media/press-releases/steube-demands-investigation-swalwell-s-ties-chinese-spy Steube Demands Investigation into Swalwell’s Ties with Chinese Spy 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Greg Steube S001214 steube.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) joined colleagues in sending a letter to Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray, inquiring if the Bureau has made any efforts to investigate the relationship between Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and suspected Chinese spy Fang Fang, or Christine Fang. We know that the threat from Communist China is dire as they attempt to infiltrate our universities, intelligence communities, and even our highest levels of government, Steube said. At a minimum, we need to remove Eric Swalwell from the Intelligence Committee and demand a thorough and immediate investigation into his ties with Fang Fang. Anything less would be a threat to our national security and complete failure on behalf of the American people. Swalwell currently serves on the House Intelligence Committee, and despite House Republicans'efforts, there have been no actions to suspend or remove him from the committee at this time. Ties between Swalwell and Fang date back to 2012, and she has a history of fundraising for his campaign. There are evenreportsof Fang having an intern hired to Swalwell's Congressional office after receiving her recommendation. The FBI alerted Swalwell of their investigation into Fang in 2015, shortly after she left the country. Strengthening our national security and countering the threat from Communist China has been a top priority for Steube. Earlier this Congress, he introduced theChinese Communist Party (CCP) Visa Disclosure Act of 2020,which would require aliens applying for certain United States visas to disclose if they receive funds from the Government of the People's Republic of China or the Chinese Communist Party. The full text of the letter can be found here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-demands-investigation-into-swalwell-s-ties-with-chinese-spy/ Steube Demands Investigation into Swalwell’s Ties with Chinese Spy 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Demands Investigation into Swalwell’s Ties with Chinese Spy WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) joined colleagues in sending a letter to Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray, inquiring if the Bureau has made any efforts to investigate the relationship between Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and suspected Chinese spy Fang Fang, or Christine Fang. “We know that the threat from Communist China is dire as they attempt to infiltrate our universities, intelligence communities, and even our highest levels of government,” Steube said. “At a minimum, we need to remove Eric Swalwell from the Intelligence Committee and demand a thorough and immediate investigation into his ties with Fang Fang. Anything less would be a threat to our national security and complete failure on behalf of the American people.” Swalwell currently serves on the House Intelligence Committee, and despite House Republicans’ efforts, there have been no actions to suspend or remove him from the committee at this time. Ties between Swalwell and Fang date back to 2012, and she has a history of fundraising for his campaign. There are even reports of Fang having an intern hired to Swalwell’s Congressional office after receiving her recommendation. The FBI alerted Swalwell of their investigation into Fang in 2015, shortly after she left the country. Strengthening our national security and countering the threat from Communist China has been a top priority for Steube. Earlier this Congress, he introduced the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) Visa Disclosure Act of 2020, which would require aliens applying for certain United States visas to disclose if they receive funds from the Government of the People’s Republic of China or the Chinese Communist Party. The full text of the letter can be found here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-votes-against-trillion-dollar-politicized-spending-bill/ Steube Votes Against Trillion Dollar Politicized Spending Bill 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Votes Against Trillion Dollar Politicized Spending Bill WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube today released the following statement after voting against this year’s Consolidated Appropriations Act: “This so-called relief bill fails to target the needs of citizens in our District and fails to bring much-needed relief to our fellow countrymen. Instead of addressing the economic suffering of Americans, Democrats have run the clock down so debate and meaningful compromise is impossible. Their solution is to manipulate this process to include their radical agenda of defunding ICE, elements of the Green New Deal and to skyrocket unnecessary federal spending. We are left with a choice – give in again or reject this misguided legislation as a signal that we demand targeted aid for our citizens.” Instead of providing relief to those in need, this legislation would defund critical agencies like ICE, continue to incentivize keeping people home from work and students home from school, and would raise the deficit to the highest levels in history. The legislation included a $1.4 trillion omnibus spending package, along with an additional $900 billion COVID relief package, totaling as much as $2.3 trillion of taxpayer money. With the United States already facing $27.4 trillion of debt, this legislation would add to the problem, all while: Encouraging Americans to rely on unemployment insurance instead of returning to the workforce; Increasing dependency on SNAP monthly benefits; Defunding critical security agencies, like ICE; Allowing schools to receive extra funding while they remain closed and hamper the development of America’s children; Bailing out the failing U.S. Postal Service and allowing them to not repay the prior $10 billion loan from the CARES Act; Lacking any liability protections for businesses, schools, universities and churches, thus further encouraging ongoing COVID-19 closures; Giving concessions to the radical progressive climate change agenda; Extending tax credits solely de… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-applauds-senate-passage-his-buy-american-resolution Sen. Rick Scott Applauds Senate Passage of His “Buy American” Resolution 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Rick Scott S001217 www.rickscott.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott applauded the Senate passage of his and Senator Tammy Baldwin's bipartisanresolution calling on Americans to buy products made in the U.S. whenever possible in order to support American jobs and manufacturing, and help build up the U.S. supply chain. Senator Rick Scott said, I'm glad my colleagues joined together to pass this resolution, which encourages all Americans to buy products made in the U.S. whenever possible. This outbreak has shown that we cannot continue to rely on our adversaries, like Communist China, who lied about the coronavirus and refused to be a partner in solving the crisis, for our critical supplies. I know it's not always easy, but buying American is an important step we can all take at home to support American jobs, American producers and American manufacturers, while helping build up the U.S. supply chain. I'm committed to supporting American businesses and jobs, and ensuring America remains strong as the undisputed leader of the global economy. Senator Tammy Baldwin said, I strongly believe that when we're using U.S. taxpayer dollars, we should be supporting American workers and American-made products. As our nation addresses supply chain shortages and works to keep our economy moving forward during this pandemic, we must boost our Made in America economy by prioritizing American manufacturers, workers and products over foreign workers and foreign-made goods. See more in Senator Scott's speech on the Senate floor HERE or below. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://posey.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396854 Rep. Poseys Statement on His Vote Against the $2.3 Trillion Omnibus Bill 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Bill Posey P000599 posey.house.gov     legacy Rep. Posey's Statement on the $2.3 Trillion Omnibus Bill Washington, December 21, 2020- Congressman Bill Posey (R-Rockledge) released the following statement regarding his vote against the 5,500-page, $2.3 trillion omnibus bill: Tonight, the House considered two bills comprising over 5,500 pages of spending totaling $2.3 trillion, all of which was made public just four hours before the 1.1 million word bill was put to a vote on the House floor with little time to read the legislation. Congressional leaders put off what could have been done months earlier, instead waiting until the eleventh hour to bring forward important legislation to fund our government and provide economic relief that was saddled with thousands of pages in unrelated legislation. I'm pleased that there are some very good provisions in the bills including provisions I have voted for previous COVID relief bills - like the approval of additional relief to those suffering the economic and health effects of COVID, as well as the additional unemployment benefits. However, the real process of negotiating this legislation should have taken place long ago on the House floor through spirited, transparent debate and votes on amendments from both sides of the aisle, not written behind closed doors by a handful of people. We must end the practice that allows a small number of people in a back room to rewrite the laws of this nation and spend trillions of dollars with no transparency or oversight. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases-es?ContentRecord_id=8EBD495A-31C0-4A9A-99AD-6E3D79D8570D Rubio, Tillis Aplauden Correccin del CARES Act Para Permitirle Cheques de Estmulo a Ciudadanos de EE. UU. 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Los senadores estadounidenses Marco Rubio (R-FL) y Thom Tillis (R-NC) aplaudieron la inclusin de su legislacin, La Ley de Alivio al Ciudadano Americano por el Coronavirus (S.4071), en el paquete de ayuda federal por el coronavirus. Esta medida asegurar que un ciudadano de EE.UU. sea elegible para recibir un Pago de Alivio por el Impacto Econmico (EIP, por sus siglas en ingls) si l o ella est casado con un extranjero que actualmente no es un ciudadano de EE.UU. Esta inclusin se aplicar retroactivamente como una devolucin de impuestos reembolsable y la elegibilidad tambin se incluye para la prxima ronda de cheques de estmulo econmico. A principios de este ao, durante una entrevista con Telemundo Network, el senador Rubio expres su inters en remediar esta inelegibilidad en la Ley CARES. "Arreglar la provisin que le negaba a algunos ciudadanos de EE.UU. elegibles para recibir un cheque de estmulo econmico bajo la Ley CARES era una omisin que tena que ser corregida", Rubio dijo. "Ningn americano tuvo que ser bloqueado de recibir asistencia federal durante la pandemia global del COVID. Le agradezco al senador Tillis y a mis otros colegas en el senado por su liderazgo para lograr que esto fuese una realidad". Relacionado: 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8F002DEB-E4E9-49F3-9BAD-CE8930C384E0 Rubio, Warner Applaud Passage of Intelligence Authorization Act in COVID-19 Package 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Acting Chairman Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Vice Chairman Mark Warner (D-VA) applauded the upcoming passage of the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (IAA) as part of the bipartisan, targeted COVID-19 relief package. The bill, which was approved by the Committee on a bipartisan 14 - 1 vote on June 8, 2020 and passed the Senate on July 23, 2020 as part of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, authorizes funding, provides legal authorities, and enhances Congressional oversight for the U.S. Intelligence Community.Recent events make it all too clear that our nation continues to face ever-expanding threats from hostile foreign actors, including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, Rubio said. It is vital that our Intelligence Community has the necessary resources, authorities, and personnel to protect America's national security, and the Senate Intelligence Committee's strong, bipartisan legislation does just that. Our bill also increases government efficiency and represents comprehensive Congressional oversight to ensure that these tools are executed responsibly and cost-effectively.I am happy to say that the Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) for Fiscal Year 2021 was included in the compromise legislation. The IAA ensures that the women and men of America's Intelligence Community have the tools and resources they need to keep our country safe, and to ensure that decision makers are presented with the best intelligence, regardless of fear or favor. Passage of the IAA also ensures that Congress fulfills its mission of providing robust oversight of the nation's intelligence agencies. This bipartisan bil… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=CFFE9FDB-3448-4349-8E05-1FC37C1FB367 English/Espaol: Rubio, Tillis Applaud CARES Act Fix to Allow Stimulus Money for U.S. Citizens 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) applauded the inclusion of their legislation, The American Citizen Coronavirus Relief Act (S.4071), in the coronavirus relief package. This measure will ensure that a U.S. citizen is eligible to receive an Economic Impact Payment (EIP) if he or she is married to a foreign national who is not currently a citizen of the United States. This inclusion will apply retroactively as a refundable tax rebate and eligibility is also included for the next round of EIPs. Earlier this year, during an interview with Telemundo Network, Senator Rubio expressed his interest in remedying this ineligibility under the CARES Act. "Fixing the provision that denied some eligible American citizens from receiving a federal stimulus check under the CARES Act was an oversight that needed correction, Rubio said. No American should have been blocked from receiving federal assistance during a global pandemic because of who they married. I thank Senator Tillis and my other Senate colleagues for their leadership in getting this across the finish line. Every eligible American citizen should receive the direct economic stimulus payment from the CARES Act and this new COVID-19 relief package as we continue to battle this pandemic, Tillis said. I am proud this bipartisan legislation to fix this oversight will become law so hard-working North Carolinians receive the stimulus payment they deserve. Related: RUBIO, TILLIS APLAUDEN CORRECCIN DEL CARES ACT PARA PERMITIRLE CHEQUES DE ESTMULO A CIUDADANOS DE EE. UU. Washington, D.C. Los senadores estadounidenses Marco Rubio (R-FL) y Thom Tillis (R-NC) aplaudieron la inclusin de su legislacin, La Ley de Alivio al Ciudadano Americano por el Coronavirus (S.4071), en el paquete de ayuda federal por el coronavirus. Esta medida asegurar que un ciudadano de EE.UU. sea elegible para recibir un Pago de Alivio por el Impacto Econmico (EIP, por sus siglas en ingls) si l o ella est casado con un extranjero que actualmente no es un ciudadan… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=DA23B5EB-A1F8-4740-AD86-7896C9B58786 Chairman Rubio: Help Is Finally on the Way 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, applauded the agreement of a $325 billion small business relief package, which includes nearly $285 billion for a second round of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help the hardest-hit small businesses. The package includes a higher PPP forgivable loan calculation for restaurants, hotels, and other businesses in related services, and increased assistance for live venues in order to aid industries that have been severely impacted by state and local restrictions. The legislation also includes enhancements and a direct infusion of working capital in SBA's lending programs, PPP set-asides for the smallest businesses and community lenders, and extension of debt forbearance in order to help minority-owned and underserved borrowers access grants and the working capital they need.Last week, former Congressional Budget Office Director Doug Holtz-Eakin called PPP the single most effective fiscal policy ever undertaken by the United States Government.A summary can be found here. A section by section can be found here.To all of the small business owners who have worked hard to make ends meet and to all the employees left in limbo: help is finally on the way, Chairman Rubio said. The Paycheck Protection Program was the single most effective relief program passed by Congress, and I am proud that this legislation will provide enough funds for a second round of PPP and additional relief measures to help the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses weather the second, and hopefully last, wave.Importantly, this package includes targeted assistance to aid restaurants and li… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://gaetz.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-matt-gaetz-issues-statement-following-house-omnibus-legislation Congressman Matt Gaetz Issues Statement Following Stimulus Package and Omnibus Bill House Votes 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Matt Gaetz G000578 gaetz.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, US Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) issued the following statement in response to the US House of Representatives' passage ofa government funding bill for fiscal year 2021 and a COVID-19 reliefpackage: "Democrats quietly acknowledged the outlandish provisions in their omnibus legislation tonight by splitting their original legislation into two separate votes. I voted yes on the half of the bill which funds our military and provides a pay raise for the brave men and women who serve America. I voted no on the second half of the spending bill, which provides windfalls to corporate special interests, while simultaneously shortchanging American citizens . While the Defense/Homeland Security/CJS/FSGG bill is not perfect, it provides crucial support for our servicemembers, and it gives America's armed forces the tools they need to succeed, both now and in the future. It also did not place arbitrary and unfair limits on the President's authority to withdraw troops and to draw down endless, unconstitutional wars. The other half of the Democrats' bill, however, denies a simple truth no amount of government-sponsored generational theft will do our people better than an open economy. It continues to subsidize the heartless, reactionary lockdown ideology of Speaker Pelosi and Leader Schumer's political allies. America's struggling workers should be prioritized over gender-specific programs in Pakistan or anti-narcotics programs in Bruma, or money for Ukraine (all of which are funded in this bill). It doubles down on many failed Democrat policies, giving special interests billions of dollars in perks, while giving our fellow Americans a paltry payment of only $600. America deserves better than this swamp sludge,"Congressman Gaetz said. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/covid-relief-bill-includes-diaz-balart-s-fix-to-a-cares-act-discrepancy COVID Relief Bill Includes Diaz-Balarts Fix to a CARES Act Discrepancy 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement regarding his provision included in the new COVID relief bill that allows U.S. Citizens and Legal Permanent Residents to receive stimulus checks even if they are married to an undocumented immigrant. Under current law, the CARES Act specifies that taxpayers who file with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), rather than a Social Security Number (SSN), are ineligible for the Economic Impact Payment. The IRS assigns an ITIN to nonresident and resident aliens who are ineligible to receive Social Security Numbers or are in the process of applying for legal status. This provision in the CARES Act also applies to ITIN holders who file jointly with a U.S. Citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, but in this case, the U.S. Citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse is also ineligible to receive the Economic Impact Payment for themselves or their children. In June, Congressman Diaz-Balart introduced the Economic Impact Payment Fairness Act to address this discrepancy within the CARES Act by allowing all those with a valid SSN who meet the income requirements to receive the EIP and the child tax credit if their children meet the current criteria. As I have stated before, there is no reason to justify why a U.S. Citizen or Legal Permanent Resident should be excluded from receiving a benefit meant for Americans simply due to the legal status of a spouse. I am thrilled to see that this provision was taken into consideration in this new COVID relief bill, and I look forward to seeing the great impact this will make in helping the American people. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/covid-relief-bill-includes-diaz-balarts-fix-cares-act-discrepancy COVID Relief Bill Includes Diaz-Balart’s Fix to a CARES Act Discrepancy 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­­–– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement regarding his provision included in the new COVID relief bill that allows U.S. Citizens and Legal Permanent Residents to receive stimulus checks even if they are married to an undocumented immigrant. Under current law, the CARES Act specifies that taxpayers who file with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), rather than a Social Security Number (SSN), are ineligible for the Economic Impact Payment. The IRS assigns an ITIN to nonresident and resident aliens who are ineligible to receive Social Security Numbers or are in the process of applying for legal status. This provision in the CARES Act also applies to ITIN holders who file jointly with a U.S. Citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, but in this case, the U.S. Citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse is also ineligible to receive the Economic Impact Payment for themselves or their children. In June, Congressman Diaz-Balart introduced the Economic Impact Payment Fairness Act to address this discrepancy within the CARES Act by allowing all those with a valid SSN who meet the income requirements to receive the EIP and the child tax credit if their children meet the current criteria. "As I have stated before, there is no reason to justify why a U.S. Citizen or Legal Permanent Resident should be excluded from receiving a benefit meant for Americans simply due to the legal status of a spouse. I am thrilled to see that this provision was taken into consideration in this new COVID relief bill, and I look forward to seeing the great impact this will make in helping the American people." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-remarks-house-passage-critical-covid-relief Diaz-Balart Remarks on the House Passage of Critical COVID Relief 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­­–– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement regarding the House passage of approximately $900 billion in critical COVID relief. "This bill closely resembles proposals that Republicans tried to pass multiple times in the last few months to no avail or support from House Leadership. It is a shame that during all this time, the livelihoods of the American people were compromised because of Speaker Pelosi's partisan agenda. Every time a bipartisan proposal was shot down, a small business had to close its doors, an American worker was left unemployed, and thousands of families were left struggling. "Although this legislation could have been signed into law months ago, I am pleased that we have reached a COVID relief bill thatprovides critical assistance for small businesses, enhances funding for vaccine distribution, and delivers aid for families that need it." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-remarks-on-the-house-passage-of-critical-covid-relief Diaz-Balart Remarks on the House Passage of Critical COVID Relief 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement regarding the House passage of approximately $900 billion in critical COVID relief. This bill closely resembles proposals that Republicans tried to pass multiple times in the last few months to no avail or support from House Leadership. It is a shame that during all this time, the livelihoods of the American people were compromised because of Speaker Pelosi's partisan agenda. Every time a bipartisan proposal was shot down, a small business had to close its doors, an American worker was left unemployed, and thousands of families were left struggling. Although this legislation could have been signed into law months ago, I am pleased that we have reached a COVID relief bill thatprovides critical assistance for small businesses, enhances funding for vaccine distribution, and delivers aid for families that need it. Click here for additional information on key provisions included in this bill. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-secures-critical-funding-fy2021-bill Diaz-Balart Secures Critical Funding in FY2021 Bill 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­­–– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement after the House passage of the FY2021 funding bill. "The FY2021 funding bill includes big wins for our nation and for Florida. This bill prioritizes funding to enhance our infrastructure, support our military and law enforcement, and strengthen our national security. In addition, school safety remains a top priority, Everglades Restoration receives a significant influx of funding, and programs that our farmers and growers rely on will continue. It also supports critical housing programs such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Homeless Assistance Grants. "Attached to this bill are several legislative priorities, including an end to surprise billing— patients will now know the real cost of a scheduled procedure before it takes place. Additionally, this bill includes the final version of WRDA 2020, thereby ensuring the Moore Haven Lock and Dam is renamed in honor of fallen FWC Officer Julian Keen, Jr. "We have already seen Florida capitalize on the programs these bills fund, and with its passage today, our state will continue to benefit from them moving forward." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-secures-critical-funding-in-fy2021-bill Diaz-Balart Secures Critical Funding in FY2021 Bill 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement after the House passage of the FY2021 funding bill. The FY2021 funding bill includes big wins for our nation and for Florida. This bill prioritizes funding to enhance our infrastructure, support our military and law enforcement, and strengthen our national security. In addition, school safety remains a top priority, Everglades Restoration receives a significant influx of funding, and programs that our farmers and growers rely on will continue. It also supports critical housing programs such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Homeless Assistance Grants. Attached to this bill are several legislative priorities, including an end to surprise billing patients will now know the real cost of a scheduled procedure before it takes place. Additionally, this bill includes the final version of WRDA 2020, thereby ensuring the Moore Haven Lock and Dam is renamed in honor of fallen FWC Officer Julian Keen, Jr. We have already seen Florida capitalize on the programs these bills fund, and with its passage today, our state will continue to benefit from them moving forward. Congressman Diaz-Balart, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, was successful in including the following items in the 2021 appropriations omnibus. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/el-proyecto-de-ley-de-alivio-del-covid-19-incluye-la-soluci-n-de-d-az El proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19 incluye la solucin de Daz-Balart a una discrepancia en la Ley CARES 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.El congresista Mario Daz-Balart (FL-25) emiti la siguiente declaracin con respecto a su provision la cual fue incluida en el nuevo proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19 que permite a los ciudadanos estadounidenses y residentes legales permanentes recibir cheques de estmulo incluso si estn casados con un inmigrante indocumentado. La actual Ley CARES especifica que los contribuyentes que presenten un Nmero de Identificacin Personal de Contribuyente (ITIN), en lugar de un Nmero de Seguro Social (SSN), no son elegibles para el Pago de Impacto Econmico. El IRS asigna un ITIN a los extranjeros no residentes y residentes que no son elegibles para recibir Nmeros de Seguro Social o estn en proceso de solicitar estatus legal. Esta disposicin de la Ley CARES tambin se aplica a los titulares de ITIN que presenten sus impuestos conjuntamente con un ciudadano estadounidense o un cnyuge residente permanente legal; pero en este caso el ciudadano estadounidense o un cnyuge residente permanente legal tampoco es elegible para recibir el pago de impacto econmico, para ellos o sus hijos. En junio, el congresista Daz-Balart present laLey de Equidad de Pago por el Impacto Econmicopara abordar esta discrepancia dentro de la Ley CARES al permitir que todos aquellos con un SSN vlido y que cumplan con los requisitos de ingresos reciban el Pago de Impacto Econmico y el crdito tributario por hijos, si sus hijos cumplen con los criterios actuales. Como he dicho antes, no hay razn para justificar por qu un ciudadano estadounidense o un residente legal permanente debe ser excluido de recibir un beneficio destinado a los estadounidenses simplemente por el estado legal de un cnyuge. Estoy encantado de ver que esta provision se tom en consideracin en este nuevo proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19, y espero ver el gran impacto que esto tendr para ayudar al pueblo estadounidense. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/el-proyecto-de-ley-de-alivio-del-covid-19-incluye-la-solucion-de-diaz El proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19 incluye la solución de Díaz-Balart a una discrepancia en la Ley CARES 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.­­––El congresista Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-25) emitió la siguiente declaración con respecto a su provision la cual fue incluida en el nuevo proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19 que permite a los ciudadanos estadounidenses y residentes legales permanentes recibir cheques de estímulo incluso si están casados con un inmigrante indocumentado. La actual Ley CARES especifica que los contribuyentes que presenten un Número de Identificación Personal de Contribuyente (ITIN), en lugar de un Número de Seguro Social (SSN), no son elegibles para el Pago de Impacto Económico. El IRS asigna un ITIN a los extranjeros no residentes y residentes que no son elegibles para recibir Números de Seguro Social o están en proceso de solicitar estatus legal. Esta disposición de la Ley CARES también se aplica a los titulares de ITIN que presenten sus impuestos conjuntamente con un ciudadano estadounidense o un cónyuge residente permanente legal; pero en este caso el ciudadano estadounidense o un cónyuge residente permanente legal tampoco es elegible para recibir el pago de impacto económico, para ellos o sus hijos. En junio, el congresista Díaz-Balart presentó la Ley de Equidad de Pago por el Impacto Económicopara abordar esta discrepancia dentro de la Ley CARES al permitir que todos aquellos con un SSN válido y que cumplan con los requisitos de ingresos reciban el Pago de Impacto Económico y el crédito tributario por hijos, si sus hijos cumplen con los criterios actuales. "Como he dicho antes, no hay razón para justificar por qué un ciudadano estadounidense o un residente legal permanente debe ser excluido de recibir un beneficio destinado a los estadounidenses simplemente por el estado legal de un cónyuge. Estoy encantado de ver que esta provision se tomó en consideración en este nuevo proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19, y espero ver el gran impacto que esto tendrá para ayudar al pueblo estadounidense". 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://steube.house.gov/media/press-releases/steube-votes-against-trillion-dollar-politicized-spending-bill Steube Votes Against Trillion Dollar Politicized Spending Bill 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Greg Steube S001214 steube.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representative Greg Steube today released the following statement after voting against this year's Consolidated Appropriations Act: "This so-called relief bill fails to target the needs of citizens in our District and fails to bring much-needed reliefto our fellow countrymen. Instead of addressing the economic suffering of Americans, Democrats have run the clock down so debate and meaningfulcompromiseis impossible. Their solution is to manipulate this process to include their radical agenda of defunding ICE, elements of the Green New Deal and to skyrocket unnecessary federal spending. We are left with a choice - give in again or reject this misguided legislation as a signal that we demand targeted aid for our citizens." Instead of providing relief to those in need, this legislation would defund critical agencies like ICE, continue to incentivize keeping people home from work and students home from school, and would raise the deficit to the highest levels in history. The legislation included a $1.4 trillion omnibus spending package, along with an additional $900 billion COVID relief package, totaling as much as $2.3 trillion of taxpayer money. With the United States already facing $27.4 trillion of debt, this legislation would add to the problem, all while: Encouraging Americans to rely on unemployment insurance instead of returning to the workforce; Increasing dependency on SNAP monthly benefits; Defunding critical security agencies, like ICE; Allowing schools to receive extra funding while they remain closed and hamper the development of America's children; Bailing out the failing U.S. Postal Service and allowing them to not repay the prior $10 billion loan from the CARES Act; Lacking any liability protections for businesses, schools, universities and churches, thus further encouraging ongoing COVID-19 closures; Giving concessions to the radical progressive climate change agenda; Extending tax credits solely designed to benefit the wealthy; Further burdening future generations of … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=023860C8-97E2-4CA9-9EB1-82F45E3D6268 Webster: Targeted Assistance Is Coming 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Today, after months of delay, Speaker Pelosi finally agreed to, and allowed a vote on a COVID aid package that has bipartisan support, along with a FY2021 appropriations bill. The COVID Relief package provides about $900 billion in assistance but will cost $325 billion thanks to Republicans insisting that Congress use existing, unused federal funds. This is a huge accomplishment and an all-around win for COVID-19 impacted Americans and all taxpayers. “After spending months playing political games and trying to use the Coronavirus pandemic to push through their socialist agenda, last night Democrats finally caved and agreed to a COVID-19 relief bill that is not much different than proposals Republicans offered starting last summer,” Rep. Webster said. “While I am disappointed by the process and timeline that it took to get to this point, I am pleased it extends the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and allows small business owners to deduct PPP expenses. PPP has been a lifeline for countless small businesses and under this bill those still experiencing severe revenue reductions can apply for a second loan. It also includes money to get students back into the classroom and to ensure that the COVID-19 vaccine is available as soon as possible – to all who want it. “As a result of these and many other good provisions, I support this critical legislation. In addition to providing targeted relief to those impacted most severely by COVID-19, the package includes robust funding for the Departments of Defense and Veterans’ Affairs to ensure our men and women in uniform have the resources they need to protect and defend our great nation and our Veterans receive the best care possible. “When government blocks an American’s ability to work and earn a living it government has a responsibility to provide assistance to these individuals. This targeted relief aids businesses and hardworking Americans still trying to recover from government required lockdowns. I remain frustrated that Congress continuously emb… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-washington-broken Sen. Rick Scott: Washington is Broken 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Rick Scott S001217 www.rickscott.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, Senator Rick Scott released the below statement on today's multi-trillion-dollar spending package. Senator Rick Scottsaid, Early this afternoon, we were finally provided the text of the combined $1.4 trillion omnibus spending bill and $900 billion COVID relief bill. It is almost 5,600 pages long and we're expected to vote on it tonight. Who in their right mind thinks that this is a responsible way of governing? This crisis has devastated American small businesses and American workers and I support many of the COVID-related provisions to boost small businesses, prevent further layoffs and enhance unemployment assistance provisions that are necessary because of the recklessness of the Chinese Communist Party and the overzealous shutdowns by politicians here in America who do not know what it is like to struggle for money or for work.I'm also glad this package does not include state bailouts, which I've been fighting for months, and makes reforms to the Federal Reserve,which provides further protections to ensure taxpayer dollars are not wasted. But, in classic Washington style, vital programs are being attached to an omnibus spending bill that mortgages our children and grandchildren's futures without even giving members a chance to read it.We are not spending money we have in the bank or anticipate we will collect in taxes.Washington doesn't seem to understand that new spending todaywill be paid for by increased federal debt and result ina tax increase on families down the road. We have to stop operating this way; there is no excuse for the way Washington treats the American taxpayers.I've repeatedly voted against enormous and wasteful spending bills. The easy route is simply to go along as Congress continues to do harm to future generations of Americans, but I will not be a part of it. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=B88F56EC-543D-41C1-97C9-5BC810E4C199 Rubio Condemns CCPs Broken Promises on Anniversary of Signing of the Sino-British Joint Declaration 2020-12-19 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement on the 36th anniversary of the signing of the Sino-British Joint Declaration on the Question of Hong Kong in Beijing. This United Nations-registered treaty committed the People's Republic of China (PRC) to afford Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy, allow local elections, and provide legal protections for the rights and freedoms of all residents.In 1984, Beijing promised that the social, economic, and political conditions that made Hong Kong far freer than mainland China would remain unchanged for 50 years, but after only 23 years, the Chinese Communist Party has crushed Hong Kong's long-cherished freedom and autonomy, Rubio said. On the anniversary of the signing of the Sino-British Joint Declaration, we should remember the long trail of Beijing's broken promises. The CCP will continue to violate any agreement, treaty, or law necessary to maintain or expand its power. Any future administration should be clear-eyed about the futility of entering into future agreements with the CCP. The U.S. must continue to stand with Hong Kongers and advance policies that counter the CCP's aggression and promote Hong Kong's autonomy.Rubio is the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations' Subcommittee that oversees human rights and is a member of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0498277E-353F-44BE-8D60-A617DB3EEAC0 Rubio on The Ingraham Angle 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined The Ingraham Angle to discuss Chinese espionage, Chinese interference in the presidential election, and the cyber attacks against the U.S. government. See below for highlights and watch the full interview here. On Chinese espionage: We've been talking about this for a long time. I remember four years ago when I started going after the Confucius Institutes we now have none left in Florida we got a lot of pushback because universities would say this is just a group that teaches Chinese language, or these are just people that sponsor trips. And when you explain to people that the Chinese are the most holistic, whole of society threat this country has ever faced in terms of espionage they will try to create relationships with a small town mayor who they think may one day grow up to be a governor or senator, a U.S. member of Congress, they will cultivate business relationships. They use businesspeople, they take them to China, they let them make some money, then they unleash them back in the U.S. and use them as lobbyists here in this country for their interests and against our national interest. They are in academia. You talked about students, especially at the graduate level, a lot of these students that are spying don't consider themselves spies. They're here. They're serving their country. Many are even linked to the military. Their researchers. They steal secrets and take them back. And then you've got American researchers who have openly sold their research, and oftentimes leaving to China with it, other times just selling it to them. And in many cases, it wasn't illegal or wasn't prosecuted. This is a big, big challenge. We have a lot of work ahead of us. On China's interference in the 2020 presidential election: "Months ago we started saying the fact that China wanted to or had intentions to at least be in a position to interfere in elections ... We also know that they had people out there trying to work and inject things in the publ… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0F7E79C9-A5FB-4ED1-B64C-B5631EBD4926 Rubio Joins Scott, Colleagues in Resolution Defending Right to Freely Exercise Religion 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Rick Scott (R-FL) and Senate colleagues in introducing a resolution defending the right to freely exercise one's religion, as protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. In addition to Rubio and Scott, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Roger Wicker (R-MS), John Boozman (R-AR), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), David Perdue (R-GA), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Tom Cotton (R-AR), John Hoeven (R-ND), Mike Braun (R-IN), Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), and James Lankford (R-OK) cosponsored the resolution, which is supported by the Family Research Council and Alliance Defending Freedom. The full text of the resolution is below. Whereas the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States clearly, plainly, and unequivocally states that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof''; Whereas the constitutional protection of this bedrock principle of religious liberty was extended to the actions of the several States through the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States; Whereas, despite the clear prohibition against laws infringing upon the free exercise of religion, houses of worship and religious organizations have been frequent targets of asymmetric restrictions by State and local government officials during the coronavirus pandemic; Whereas irrespective of compliance with mask mandates, social distancing, and other protective measures to limit the spread of the coronavirus, houses of worship and religious organizations have been subjected to size restrictions or outright bans on in-person gatherings which severely infringe upon the right of their members to freely exercise their religion; Whereas, while houses of worship and religious organizations are subjected to severe restrictions under the guise of limiting the transmission of the coronavirus, businesses and secular activities enjoy substant… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=172A093E-1C92-4A54-993F-01499B335DFF Rubio Names Aunt Catfishs on the River of Florida as the Senate Small Business of the Week 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, named Aunt Catfish's On the River of Port Orange, Florida as the U.S. Senate Small Business of the Week.Rubio released the following video message to congratulate Aunt Catfish's on the Riveras the Senate Small Business of the Week. A broadcast quality version can be found here.Hello, I'm Senator Marco Rubio, the Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.And today, it is my honor to recognize Aunt Catfish's On the River of Port Orange, Florida as the Senate Small Business of the Week.Jim Galbreath founded Aunt Catfish's in 1979, following in his mother's footsteps into the restaurant industry.Today, this family-owned small business is run by his son Brandon, who started working there as a teenager.Through his service with the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Port Orange COVID-19 Reopening Task Force, Brandon has proven himself to be a tireless advocate for his local small business community.Like many of Florida's small businesses, especially those in the restaurant industry, Aunt Catfish's experienced a drop in revenue due to the coronavirus shutdowns.But the restaurant was approved for a Paycheck Protection Program loan, a small business relief program I was proud to be the author of.And as a result, they were able to keep their employees paid while maintaining the highest health and safety standards for their customers.So congratulations to the entire team at Aunt Catfish's On the RIver on being named the Senate Small Business of the Week! I look forward to your continued success and your community leadership!As Chairman of the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6C5A9E83-E052-4643-B2D7-540617C92809 Rubio, Peters, Tillis Applaud House Passage of Bipartisan FACE Act 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) applauded the House passage of S. 979, which he introduced in April 2019 with Senators Ron Johnson (R-WI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Thom Tillis (R-NC). The Federal Advance Contracts Enhancement (FACE) Act passed the Senate unanimously on November 7, 2019. With today's action by the House of Representatives, where the bill passed 386-1, the legislation now heads to the President for signature.The FACE Act will require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to ensure more effective use and management of its advance contracts for goods and services. The bill requires federal preparedness actions to be coordinated with states and localities to prevent gaps in recovery efforts from occurring. A one-pager of the bill is available here.After the past few hurricane seasons, which produced devastation in Florida, and its neighboring states, I thank my colleagues in the House for passing this important bill that will better assist in responding to future storms, Rubio said. The FACE Act will ensure that federal response will be more effective and efficient, and I urge President Trump to swiftly sign it into law.Planning ahead to respond to natural disasters can help streamline recovery efforts and save taxpayers in Michigan and across the country millions of dollars in the long run, Peters, Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, said. I was proud to work with my colleagues on these bipartisan and commonsense reforms to help communities be better prepared to respond when disaster strikes and ensure they can quickly access the resources they need for a speedy recovery.North Carolina has faced extensive recovery … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D9CA5B3F-385C-4D41-9F43-4D38E4EEC4AA Rubio, Duckworth, Durbin Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Fix Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Overpayment Issue 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced bipartisan legislation that would help fix an error that caused individuals receiving Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) to forcibly repay, while potentially unemployed, overpayments they received unknowingly. The Relief for Working Families Act would provide states discretion to waive PUA overpayments for individuals who acted in good faith and played no role in securing surplus benefits. U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and Stephanie Murphy (D-FL) introduced companion legislation in the House.American families are struggling with lost jobs, home schooling, and more amid a global pandemic, and the last thing they need is to find out they owe money to their state because of a bureaucratic error, Rubio said. This legislation gives states the necessary flexibility to ensure individuals will not be forced to repay unemployment overpayments that are not their fault. It will be one less worry for hardworking families during these uncertain times.Hardworking Americans already struggling during this pandemic shouldn't be forced to pay for a bureaucratic error they had nothing to do with, Duckworth said. I'm proud to introduce this legislation that will ensure working families don't bear this additional burden of financial distress and states have the tools and flexibility they need to remedy this problem for thousands of Americans across the country.No one should have to pay back thousands of dollars they thought they were getting in good faith, Durbin said. Our bill gives States flexibility to provide relief to families that are in need and fixes this error for countles… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E1F1BAE7-C017-445C-B9C8-7E04BD91DADD Mast Statement On Congress Receiving The COVID-19 Vaccine Before The American People 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Brian Mast M001199 mast.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) released the following statement after Speaker Pelosi stated that she and the rest of Congress would receive the COVID-19 vaccine before the vast majority of the American people: Leaders eat last; it's one of the first lessons a soldier learns as early as basic training. Speaker Pelosi apparently never learned this lessonasking Americans to wait to get vaccinated while Congress cuts the line is the opposite of leadership. Congress needs to stop treating itself as a special political class, and the mere suggestion that Members of Congress are in any way more important than the very people who gave us the privilege of serving in Congress is appalling. Being for the people must always mean putting the people before ourselves, which is why every single American should be able to access the coronavirus vaccine before any Member of Congress. You can read the full announcement about the availability of the COVID-19 vaccine for Members of Congress here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://steube.house.gov/media/press-releases/steube-resume-fl-17-mvp-program-honor-outstanding-service-community Steube to Resume FL-17 “MVP” Program to Honor Outstanding Service in the Community 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Greg Steube S001214 steube.house.gov     legacy OKEECHOBEE, FLA. U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced that he will resume the FL-17 MVP program to recognize and honor outstanding service around the community. The volunteers and community heroes here in the 17th District are what makes our community and the state of Florida so special, Steube said. As we begin to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to bring our neighbors together and recognize the heroes who dedicate themselves to bettering our community. The purpose of this award is to recognize the unsung heroes across our district as they display extraordinary dedication to make a difference in our community. To thank them for their work, MVPs will be presented with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol and publicly recognized in Steube's weekly newsletter. To be eligible for the award, the recipient must have engaged in an outstanding act of service and be a resident of the 17th Congressional District. Those wishing to submit a nomination can do so at Steube.House.gov/FL17MVP. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-to-resume-fl-17-mvp-program-to-honor-outstanding-service-in-the-community/ Steube to Resume FL-17 “MVP” Program to Honor Outstanding Service in the Community 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube to Resume FL-17 “MVP” Program to Honor Outstanding Service in the Community OKEECHOBEE, FLA. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced that he will resume the FL-17 MVP program to recognize and honor outstanding service around the community. “The volunteers and community heroes here in the 17th District are what makes our community and the state of Florida so special,” Steube said. “As we begin to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to bring our neighbors together and recognize the heroes who dedicate themselves to bettering our community.” The purpose of this award is to recognize the unsung heroes across our district as they display extraordinary dedication to make a difference in our community. To thank them for their work, MVPs will be presented with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol and publicly recognized in Steube’s weekly newsletter. To be eligible for the award, the recipient must have engaged in an outstanding act of service and be a resident of the 17th Congressional District. Those wishing to submit a nomination can do so at Steube.House.gov/FL17MVP. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-menendez-senate-dems-block-sen-rick-scotts-resolution-reaffirming-commitment-first-amendment Sen. Menendez, Senate Dems Block Sen. Rick Scott’s Resolution Reaffirming Commitment to the First Amendment and Religious Freedom 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Rick Scott S001217 www.rickscott.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor to ask unanimous consent for hisresolution defending the First Amendment to the United States Constitution the right to freely exercise one's religion. This resolution, also sponsored by Senators Tillis, Wicker, Boozman, Cramer, Perdue, Rounds, Rubio, Blackburn, Cotton, Hoeven, Braun, Loeffler, Cruz, Hyde-Smith, Lankford, Barrasso, Paul, and Daines, was blocked by Senator Menendez. Senator Rick Scottsaid, Religious liberty is our first freedom under the Constitution of the United States. Every elected official takes an oath to support and defend our Constitution and the rights enshrined within it. We've seen liberal governors and mayors across the nation go after religious institutions throughout the pandemic, so my resolution simply reaffirms the right to freely practice religion. It is absolutely shameful that Senator Menendez would not only lie about what is happening in his state, but also refuse to stand with houses of worship, who are entitled to the Constitutional right to freely exercise their religion, by blocking my resolution today. I take my oath of office seriously, and I urge each of my colleagues to do the same. We know many Democrats don't respect the religious freedoms of Americans, but this is a new low. We won't let them chip away at our rights, and we will never stop fighting for the liberties of all Americans. FACT CHECK: Senator Menendez claimed the part of Senator Scott's resolution that states New Jersey prohibited or severely restricted indoor services by houses of worship because they were not deemed essential,' but commercial establishments like marijuana dispensaries and liquor stores were permitted to remain open was inaccurate. That's a lie. Watch the exchange HERE or below. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-applauds-commerce-department-decision-add-chinese-drone-company-entity-list Sen. Rick Scott Applauds Commerce Department Decision to Add Chinese Drone Company to Entity List 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Rick Scott S001217 www.rickscott.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement applauding the decision by the U.S. Department of Commerce to add 77 entities, including Chinese-made drone company DJI, to the Entity List for actions deemed contrary to the national security or foreign policy interest of the United States. These include entities in China involved in military-civil fusion and destabilizing military modernization activities, including entities that supported the militarization and unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea, entities that enable human rights abuses, and entities that engaged in the theft of U.S. trade secrets. For more than a year, Senator Scott has been warning about the threat Chinese-made drones may have on national security. Senator Scott and colleagues introduced the American Security Drone Act to prohibit the U.S. Government from purchasing drones manufactured in countries identified as national security threats, like Iran and China. Senator Rick Scott said, For more than a year, I've fought to prevent the U.S. Government from purchasing technology, like drones, with American tax dollars from Chinese companies backed by their government. I've had countless discussions with the Administration and my colleagues on the risks of buying drones from DJI and other Chinese-backed companies, and the threat these drones pose to our national security. I'm glad the Commerce Department made the decision today to include DJI in its Entity List. We can no longer turn a blind eye to Communist China and allow their technology into some of the most critical operations of the U.S. Government. Now more than ever, we must pass my American Security Drone Act to protect our national security. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-australian-prime-minister-us-and-australia-must-work-together-combat-communist Sen. Rick Scott to Australian Prime Minister: U.S. and Australia Must Work Together to Combat Communist China’s Aggression 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Rick Scott S001217 www.rickscott.senate.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison thanking him for Australia's efforts to fight against Communist China's quest for world domination, and affirming the United States' support as the two nations continue to stand strong against Communist China. Read the Senator's letter HERE or below. December 18, 2020 The Honorable Scott Morrison Prime Minister of Australia Parliament House Canberra ACT 2600 Dear Prime Minister Morrison: I want to thank you for your strong, ongoing efforts to stand against Communist China and General Secretary Xi. I support your decision to fight against their unfair and manipulative trade practices, and to condemn the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) vile, online attacks against Australians. The United States stands with Australia as you continue to fight against Communist China's aggression. We must work together to curb the threat Beijing poses regionally and globally. We know the CCP is committing a genocide against the Uyghurs, harvesting organs of the Falun Gong, and forcing hundreds of thousands into mass labor camps in Tibet. They steal technology and refuse to open their markets to foreign goods as required by their agreement with the World Trade Organization. We've seen them imprison peaceful protestors in Hong Kong and label Hong Kongers who advocate for basic civil liberties as national security threats. The CCP continues to militarize the South China Sea and is eager to expand its territorial claims in the region. I appreciate your support of an international inquiry into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic. Beijing must be held accountable for the lies and misinformation that led to the spread of the coronavirus, which devastated the world economy and killed millions of people. I also appreciate your decision to ban the rollout of Huawei's 5G networks into Australia, as well as your continued condemnation of human rights abuses in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, and the CCP's threatening behavior toward Taiwan. … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases-es?ContentRecord_id=1434F550-61A3-4B37-867F-61EDDF22A5A4 Rubio Habla con Alex Otaola 2020-12-17 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Sala de Prensa Inicio Sala de Prensa Sala de Prensa Washington, D.C. El senador estadounidense Marco Rubio (R-FL) habl con Alex Otaola de Cubanos por el Mundo sobre diversos temas de actualidad. Durante su charla, abordaron como la dictadura de Cuba activamente culpa a EE.UU. por la realidad de la isla y sobre cmo una administracin Biden cambiara la poltica del presidente Trump hacia Cuba.Una transcripcin parcial de la entrevista est a continuacin:Con el tema de Cuba y es importante hablar de esto porque yo creo que dentro de Cuba obviamente [hay] un bombardeo constante de parte del rgimen hablando de nosotros. Mira, mi deseo siempre ha sido lo siguiente: poner en manos del pueblo dentro de Cuba, no de la gente en Washington, de ninguna otra parte del mundo, del pueblo dentro de Cuba su propio destino.Y es por eso que el presidente Trump, a nuestra sugerencia, simplemente hizo el siguiente cambio: si eres una compaa controlada por militares cubanos como GAESA-que controla todos los hoteles y todas las grandes empresas que hacen todo el dinero en Cuba, bueno pues no puedes hacer negocios con EE.UU. Si eres alguien independiente, pues entonces s. Y es el gobierno cubano que ha decidido no permitir eso.Y en fin, [el rgimen] no lo quieren permitir obviamente porque la independencia econmica trae independencia poltica, ese es el control..Entonces el pueblo cubano puede decidir qu modelo de gobierno y qu modelo econmico quiere tener. Ese siempre ha sido nuestro inters y siempre lo seguir siendo y estamos buscando la manera de cmo podemos de nuestra parte poder apoyar eso y tratar de llevar eso a cabo.Me alegra mucho ver que se est despertando de nuevo el joven cubano que entiende y … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F5EAA643-8B81-4C4D-9165-121864FAD119 Rubio Asks Department of Commerce to Answer Questions About Huawei Business Dealings With U.S. Companies 2020-12-17 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross requesting information concerning Huawei's orders of semiconductors from American companies.I strongly support the actions taken by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) on August 17, 2020, which closed certain loopholes to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) related to Huawei, Rubio wrote. These actions were meant to prevent U.S.-developed technology from being used to undermine our own national security. It has been brought to my attention that Huawei is ordering semiconductors from certain U.S.-based chip companies, or through others stockpiling them, with the intent to ship them in the event that those companies are granted individual export licenses (IVLs), or if Huawei is removed from the Entity List.The full text of the letter is below.Dear Secretary Ross:As you are well versed, due to its ties to the Chinese Communist Party, Huawei continues to pose a significant threat to the U.S. economy, national security, and our critical infrastructure. I strongly support the actions taken by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) on August 17, 2020, which closed certain loopholes to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) related to Huawei. These actions were meant to prevent U.S.-developed technology from being used to undermine our own national security.It has been brought to my attention that Huawei is ordering semiconductors from certain U.S.-based chip companies, or through others stockpiling them, with the intent to ship them in the event that those companies are granted individual export licenses (IVLs), or if Huawei is removed from the Entity List. Accor… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-welcomes-florida-s-approval-to-implement-clean-water-act-cwa Diaz-Balart Welcomes Floridas Approval to Implement Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 program 2020-12-17 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) joined Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler, EPARegion 4 Administrator Mary S. Walker, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Secretary Noah Valenstein, and members of the Florida delegation as they announced that Florida is the first state in more than 25 years to apply for and receive approval to implement a Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 programformally transferring permitting authority from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to the State of Florida for a broad range of water resources within the State. Today's announcement is a tremendous accomplishment for Florida, especially as we continue our Everglades restoration efforts,said U.S. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25). Allowing the state to take over the 404 permitting process will significantly streamline restoration projects, while still protecting the greater environment. I thank Administrator Wheeler and Regional Administrator Walker, as well as all the other key players who worked diligently to make this happen. I have no doubt that we will see the benefits of this decision for years to come. A considerable amount of effort has gone into Florida's assumption of the Clean Water Act 404 program,said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler.Federal authorities don't delegate this type of permit often, but Florida has, beyond question one of the greatest environmental records of any state, and I couldn't be happier that Florida has shown it can meet the strict national standards EPA sets to protect human health and the environment. After a rigorous review, analysis and coordination process, EPA is pleased that the state of Florida will assume responsibility of its Clean Water Act Section 404 program,saidEPARegion 4 Administrator Mary S. Walker.This approval is truly a reflection of the high-level scientific and regulatory expertise of the environmental professionals at the state, federal and tribal levels who ensured a legally and technically sou… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-welcomes-floridas-approval-implement-clean-water-act-cwa Diaz-Balart Welcomes Florida’s Approval to Implement Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 program 2020-12-17 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­­–– Today, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) joined Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler, EPARegion 4 Administrator Mary S. Walker, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Secretary Noah Valenstein, and members of the Florida delegation as theyannounced that Florida is the first state in more than 25 years to apply for and receive approval to implement a Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 program—formally transferring permitting authority from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to the State of Florida for a broad range of water resources within the State. "Today's announcement is a tremendous accomplishment for Florida, especially as we continue our Everglades restoration efforts,"said U.S. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25). "Allowing the state to take over the 404 permitting process will significantly streamline restoration projects, while still protecting the greater environment. I thank Administrator Wheeler and Regional Administrator Walker, as well as all the other key players who worked diligently to make this happen. I have no doubt that we will see the benefits of this decision for years to come." "A considerable amount of effort has gone into Florida's assumption of the Clean Water Act 404 program,"said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler."Federal authorities don't delegate this type of permit often, but Florida has, beyond question one of the greatest environmental records of any state, and I couldn't be happier that Florida has shown it can meet the strict national standards EPA sets to protect human health and the environment." "After a rigorous review, analysis and coordination process, EPA is pleased that the state of Florida will assume responsibility of its Clean Water Act Section 404 program,"saidEPARegion 4 Administrator Mary S. Walker."This approval is truly a reflection of the high-level scientific and regulatory expertise of the environmental professionals at the state, federal and tribal levels who ensured a legally a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://steube.house.gov/media/press-releases/steube-celebrates-florida-clean-water-act-404-program-approval-epa Steube Celebrates Florida Clean Water Act Section 404 Approval with EPA Administrator Wheeler 2020-12-17 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Greg Steube S001214 steube.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today delivered remarks at the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) event celebrating the initiation of the Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 program in Florida. It was an honor to celebrate this tremendous victory for Florida's environment and infrastructure, Steube said. As the first state to receive approval to administer the CWA 404 program in over 25 years and only the third state in 43 years, this is a historic accomplishment. With this increased flexibility for permitting, Florida will now have new capabilities to build and maintain our infrastructure while protecting Florida's water quality and environmental interests. Currently, Section 404of the CWA requires a permit before dredged or fill material can be discharged into waters of the United States. However, this has been loosely defined and caused problems for decades which have not only affected Florida's water quality, but also progress on infrastructure projects. This rule change and program will allow projects of all sizes to be approved to begin faster without delays caused by the duplicative permitting processes from federal and state levels. This is a major accomplishment as 85% of review requests already overlap between state and federal requirements. Streamlined permitting processes will promote efficiency and benefit all sectors of Florida's vibrant economy, namely infrastructure and agriculture, all while protecting the state's environmental interests. Steube has taken many initiatives to protect Florida's environment in Congress. Recently, Steube's request formechanical harvesting languagewas included in this year's appropriations package. This includes the use of safe alternatives to spraying chemicals into Florida's lakes and waterways and will help Florida control invasive species without sacrificing the water quality of Lake Okeechobee and surrounding watersheds. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-celebrates-florida-clean-water-act-section-404-approval-with-epa-administrator-wheeler/ Steube Celebrates Florida Clean Water Act Section 404 Approval with EPA Administrator Wheeler 2020-12-17 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Celebrates Florida Clean Water Act Section 404 Approval with EPA Administrator Wheeler WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today delivered remarks at the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) event celebrating the initiation of the Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 program in Florida. “It was an honor to celebrate this tremendous victory for Florida’s environment and infrastructure,” Steube said. “As the first state to receive approval to administer the CWA 404 program in over 25 years and only the third state in 43 years, this is a historic accomplishment. With this increased flexibility for permitting, Florida will now have new capabilities to build and maintain our infrastructure while protecting Florida’s water quality and environmental interests.” Currently, Section 404 of the CWA requires a permit before dredged or fill material can be discharged into waters of the United States. However, this has been loosely defined and caused problems for decades which have not only affected Florida’s water quality, but also progress on infrastructure projects. This rule change and program will allow projects of all sizes to be approved to begin faster without delays caused by the duplicative permitting processes from federal and state levels. This is a major accomplishment as 85% of review requests already overlap between state and federal requirements. Streamlined permitting processes will promote efficiency and benefit all sectors of Florida’s vibrant economy, namely infrastructure and agriculture, all while protecting the state’s environmental interests. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=C731EDC3-0EDB-4AC5-8587-9ADCABD0FA75 Webster Applauds EPA Historic Approval of Florida’s Request to Administer the Clean Water Act Section 404 Program 2020-12-17 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, joined U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler, U.S. Department of Interior Secretary David Bernhardt, Florida Congressional Colleagues, FL DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein and others as EPA announced that Florida would assume administration of the Clean Water Act 404 program. “Today is a great day for Florida and everyone who cares about protecting our wetlands and clean water and streamlining government regulations. The Sunshine State has a strong track record of protecting our unique environment and Floridians care deeply about their environment and natural resources. Everglades restoration, key infrastructure projects, sustaining protections on wetlands and endangered species, and taxpayer dollars – are all beneficiaries of today’s announcement. I thank Administrator Wheeler and look forward to continuing to work with him, Secretary Bernhardt and Secretary Valenstein to protect and support Florida’s water, Floridians and our economy,” said Congressman Dan Webster (FL-11). Last month, Rep. Webster led a Congressional letter in support of Florida’s request to administer the Clean Water Section 404 program. Approximately 85% of current state and federal review requirements are duplicative. These duplicative requirements will be removed under Florida’s administration of the 404 program. Additional quotes from state and federal leaders and stakeholders “A considerable amount of effort has gone into Florida’s assumption of the Clean Water Act 404 program,” said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “Federal authorities don’t delegate this type of permit often, but Florida has, beyond question one of the greatest environmental records of any state, and I couldn’t be happier that Florida has shown it can meet the strict national standards EPA sets to protect human health and the environment.” “After a rigorous review, analysis and coordination process, EPA is pleased that the state of Florida will assume responsibility of … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8141B973-236F-46E1-BDE3-1B38C54F7D82 Rubio and Markey Applaud Senate Passage of Bill Awarding Congressional Gold Medal To American Heroes Killed in 2012 Benghazi Consulate Attack 2020-12-16 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Bill honors selfless sacrifice of Ambassador Christopher Stevens, Glen A. Doherty, Tyrone Woods, and Sean Smith Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA), along with Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), and Shelley Moore Capito (D-WV) applauded the Senate's passage of their bipartisan bill (S. 2054) to posthumously award the Congressional Gold Medal to J. Christopher Stevens, Glen A. Doherty, Tyrone Woods and Sean Smith in recognition of their service and defense of the United States of America. Stevens, Doherty, Woods, and Smith were killed in the attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya in September 2012. Ambassador Christopher Stevens, a member of the Career Foreign Service, was serving as U.S. Ambassador to Libya during the attack. Glen Doherty, a former combat-decorated Navy SEAL. Tyrone Woods, was also a former combat-decorated Navy SEAL. Sean Smith, a native of San Diego, had served in the Air Force where he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal. Honoring our fallen fellow Americans, who were murdered during a terrorist attack in our nation's consulate in Benghazi, commemorates not only their legacy but also their sacrifice, Rubio said. We owe Ambassador Stevens, Navy SEALS Doherty and Woods as well as Airman Smith a great debt of gratitude. I am proud to have joined Senator Markey in introducing this bipartisan bill and urge the members of the House to quickly pass it and send it to the President's desk for signature. The bravery of Glen Doherty, Tyrone Woods, Sean Smith and Ambassador Stevens' must be remembered and honored. Our diplomats, armed forces, and all who proudly serve our country overseas deserve our utmost respect, recognition, and gratitude. I am honored to have led the effort that will honor them as the American heroes we know them to be, Markey said. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor the legislative branch can bestow upon any individual, and I look … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=9A294805-1422-40A6-9D26-36E580C9FB9F Rubio Joins Menendez, Cruz, Colleagues for Respect for Nicaraguan Civil Society and Press Freedoms 2020-12-16 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Senators express solidarity with Nicaraguan people and call on the Ortega government to respect democratic ideals and fundamental human rights Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Ted Cruz (R-TX) and eight of their Senate colleagues in urging the U.S. Ambassador to Nicaragua Kevin K. Sullivan to leverage all diplomatic tools to ensure the safety of journalists, civil society, and political leaders in Nicaragua. In their letter to Ambassador Sullivan, the Senators expressed concern about recent actions to codify press censorship and further restrict activities of civil society and political opponents ahead of November 2021 presidential elections, including the recent passage of the so-called Foreign Agents Law and the Special Law on Cybercrimes. The Senators also raised concerns about the harassment of independent news media in Nicaragua, including the recent court seizure of assets belonging to the owner of Nicavision Canal 12 one of only two independent channels still on open air in the country. Senators Rubio, Menendez, and Cruz were joined by Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Chris Murphy (D-CT), and John Cornyn (R-TX). These efforts by the Ortega government represent a clear attempt to stifle political opponents and restrict citizen mobilization, wrote the Senators. We are deeply concerned that the recently enacted legislation constructed to silence voices critical of the Ortega government will lead to increased arrests and persecution of political opponents. Since April 2018, Nicaraguans have witnessed arbitrary detentions of journalists and censorship of outlets such as 100% Noticias and Nicavision Canal 12, while Ortega allies maintain control over the majority of domestic news media, added the Senators. Rubio is the Chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=ACB7A542-6B69-4182-877F-7DCF3FCD1751 Rubio Statement on MSCI Removing Chinese Military Companies From Its Indexes 2020-12-16 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a statement following MSCI, Inc.'s (MSCI) announcement that it would remove seven Chinese companies connected to the People's Liberation Army from its indexes. In June 2019, Rubio requested information from MSCI regarding the company's controversial decision to add Chinese companies in its equity indexes, including whether MSCI examined the potential for funding Chinese companies involved in the Chinese government and Communist Party's military, espionage, human rights violations, and Made in China 2025 industrial policy when it performed due diligence on the Chinese firms that it includes in its indexes.More than a year ago, I highlighted how index providers like MSCI funnel U.S. dollars, including from American mom and pop investors and Wall Street, to hostile Chinese companies that are involved in the Communist Party's military, espionage, human rights violations, and Made in China 2025 industrial policy, Rubio said. I was proud to work with the Trump Administration on their Executive Order to prohibit investment in Chinese military firms, and MSCI's decision to remove these dangerous companies from their indexes is a result of that good work.It is regrettable but unsurprising that nothing short of an Executive Order would move an American firm to eliminate from its indexes securities of companies classified by the U.S. government as Communist Chinese military companies' and human rights abusers, Rubio continued. MSCI's stated decision not to remove these firms' subsidiaries and affiliates underscores the need for Congress to take further action and further justifies the decision made by the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Boa… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=DC87A289-28D0-4A1C-BE12-0B01858AB6A4 Rubio, Gillibrand, Rosen Welcome Senate Passage of Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen State Dept Role in Combating Anti-Semitism 2020-12-16 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) applauded the Senate passage of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism Act of 2019 (S.238, H.R. 221), a bipartisan and bicameral bill that would enhance the State Department's role in combating and monitoring anti-Semitism around the world. The bill now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration. Senators Rubio and Gillibrand were joined by Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) as original co-sponsors of the bill. U.S. Representatives Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Eliot Engel (D-NY) introduced the companion bill in the House of Representatives. Anti-Semitism, unfortunately, is on the rise and we must do all we can to combat this ancient evil, Rubio said. I welcome the passage of this important bipartisan bill that will ensure that the U.S. remains a leader in the fight against anti-Semitism worldwide. I commend my Senate colleagues for passing this legislation, and look forward to the House quickly passing it and sending it to the President to be signed into law. As we have seen far too often, anti-Semitism is surging in New York state, our country, and across the world, Gillibrand said. We must do everything in our power to confront, and end, this growing threat. I am proud that we were able to pass this bipartisan bill to elevate the position of special envoy to the rank of ambassador in order to ensure that the State Department can monitor and help combat anti-Semitism across the globe. I will always stand with the Jewish community, and fight against hatred and prejudice in all its forms. Anti-Semitism continues to rise at an alarming rate across the globe. To equip the State Department to better address rising anti-Semitism, it is critical that we elevate the role of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism to Ambassador-at-Large, Rosen said. I am proud to see that this important bipartisan bill has passe… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/buchanan-applauds-deal-end-surprise-medical-billing Buchanan Applauds Deal to End Surprise Medical Billing 2020-12-16 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congressman Vern Buchanan today applauded a bipartisan agreement reached by congressional leaders on legislation to protect patients from receiving surprise medical bills. He called for the measure to be included in an end-of-the-year spending package. Every year millions of Americans are socked with exorbitant bills for services they discover theirinsurancedoesn't cover. This is an all-too-common practice known assurprisemedicalbilling, often stemming from emergency room visits. The bill would prohibit out-of-network providers from billing patients without receiving consent 72 hours prior to any appointments or procedures. No patient should ever walk out of a hospital and get blindsided by medical bills they never authorized, Buchanan said. The bill also sets up a process for doctors and hospitals to go to arbitration to resolve billing disputes, removing patients from the billing process. A study conducted earlier this year found that more than 20 percent of patients had received a surprise medical bill averaging $2,000 each. The newly-announced No Surprises Actwould ensure for the first time that patients receive a true and honest cost estimate in advance of any scheduled procedures, strengthen transparency requirements for emergency room procedures and reduce patients'healthcare costs. Specifically, the legislation will protect patients from surprise bills by ensuring they are only responsible for their health insurance plan's in-network costs. This includes preventing patients from being hit with a surprise bill for care from an out-of-network doctor at an in-network hospital, another common cause of surprise medical bills. The Kaiser Family Foundation found that 18 percent of emergency room visits and 16 percent of in-network hospital stays resulted in a surprise bill. The No Surprises Act is similar to the Consumer Protections Against Surprise Medical Bills Act which Buchanan co-sponsored and supported when it passed the House Ways and Means Committee in February of this year. This bipartisan p… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=C6112916-1EC8-4298-B593-1836578C3B17 Mast Provisions To Extend Benefits, Assist Veterans Passed by the House 2020-12-16 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Brian Mast M001199 mast.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020, which included a number of provisions Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) helped write to extend benefits and provide additional assistance for veterans. The men and women who put on the uniform to defend our nation made the decision to put country before self. We will never be able to repay them for their sacrifice, but ensuring those who served have access to the benefits they earned is the least we can do, Rep. Mast said. That's what these provisions are all about, and I'm glad we were able to come together and get the job done. Specifically, Rep. Mast helped write and secure the following provisions in the bill: Extending wartime veterans benefits, including the Veterans Pension and health care, to the U.S. Military Assistance Advisory Group (MAAG). The U.S. MAAG included more than 3,000 officers and enlisted individuals who served during the Vietnam War but are currently ineligible for many veterans benefits. This provision would fix this by changing the recognized start of the Vietnam War era from 1961 to 1955, covering the U.S. MAAG as Vietnam War veterans and making them eligible to begin receiving benefits. Helping veterans rebuild and recover in the wake of natural disasters. Veterans and servicemembers are currently eligible for VA home loans that are backed by the federal government and subject to lower interest rates than traditional mortgages. This provision would reduce loan fees for veterans who have been affected by presidentially-declared natural disasters by enabling them to qualify for a second home loan using the initial VA funding fee, instead of the higher subsequent-use fee. Assisting with the legal services of homeless veterans and veterans at risk for homelessness. This provision directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide grants to organizations that provide legal services to homeless veterans and veterans at ri… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2020/12/buchanan-applauds-deal-end-surprise-medical-billing Buchanan Applauds Deal to End Surprise Medical Billing 2020-12-15 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Congressman Vern Buchanan today applauded a bipartisan agreement reached by congressional leaders on legislation to protect patients from receiving surprise medical bills. He called for the measure to be included in an end-of-the-year spending package. Every year millions of Americans are socked with exorbitant bills for services they discover their insurance doesn’t cover. This is an all-too-common practice known as surprise medical billing, often stemming from emergency room visits. The bill would prohibit out-of-network providers from billing patients without receiving consent 72 hours prior to any appointments or procedures. “No patient should ever walk out of a hospital and get blindsided by medical bills they never authorized,” Buchanan said. The bill also sets up a process for doctors and hospitals to go to arbitration to resolve billing disputes, removing patients from the billing process. A study conducted earlier this year found that more than 20 percent of patients had received a surprise medical bill averaging $2,000 each. The newly-announced No Surprises Act would ensure for the first time that patients receive a true and honest cost estimate in advance of any scheduled procedures, strengthen transparency requirements for emergency room procedures and reduce patients’ health care costs. Specifically, the legislation will protect patients from surprise bills by ensuring they are only responsible for their health insurance plan’s in-network costs. This includes preventing patients from being hit with a surprise bill for care from an out-of-network doctor at an in-network hospital, another common cause of surprise medical bills. The Kaiser Family Foundation found that 18 percent of emergency room visits and 16 percent of in-network hospital stays resulted in a surprise bill. The No Surprises Act is similar to the Consumer Protections Against Surprise Medical Bills Act which Buchanan co-sponsored and supported when it passed the House Ways and Means Committee in February of this yea… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=233D8030-2784-405B-A394-6F10982EC40D Rubio Secures Provision in Defense Bill to Better Manage Coast Guard Assets 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) secured a provision in the Senate-passed Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act that will help the U.S. Coast Guard to reduce and better manage the maintenance backlog for its vast and aging shore infrastructure assets. The FY21 NDAA includes and builds upon Senator Rubio's Coast Guard Shore Infrastructure Improvement Act, which he first introduced in July 2019, and which seeks to implement recommendations from a Government Accountability Office report. Improvements are critical to the Coast Guard's operational mission, as shore infrastructure is unfortunately vulnerable due to past weather events, as well as planning for future natural disasters.Florida is proud to host critical Coast Guard personnel and infrastructure, including vital shore infrastructure assets, Rubio said. I am pleased that the FY21 NDAA conference report includes my provision to address the Coast Guard's maintenance backlog. The men and women of the Coast Guard constantly stand ready to protect our nation, and we must ensure the infrastructure they rely on is up to par.Related: 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3B794889-B528-4EED-90F0-9FF7E5C1DB68 Tomorrow: Rubio Staff to Host Virtual Hurricane Sally FEMA Appeals Clinic 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Pensacola, FL Starting tomorrow, the office of U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) will host a virtual Hurricane Sally FEMA Appeals Clinic for those individuals who have been denied by FEMA for Individual Assistance.December 15 and 16, 20209:00 AM to 3:30 PM CSTTo register for the clinic, click here.Individuals can make an appointment to speak with a member of Senator Rubio's staff regarding how to appeal the FEMA denial. Appeals can relate to initial eligibility decisions, the amount or type of assistance provided, late applications, requests to return money, or a denial of continued Temporary Housing Assistance.For questions regarding this event, please contact Senator Rubio's Orlando Regional Office via phone: 1-866-630-7106 or via email at: Recovery@rubio.senate.gov. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=EE3C89CA-DAAD-4B5B-A2FA-EC50A1341B07 ICYMI: Rubio says patriotic, pro-worker Republican Party is emerging 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy A Patriotic, Pro-Worker Republican Party Is EmergingBy U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL)December 2020The Ripon Forum Political coalitions have proven to be remarkably dynamic over the past twenty years, and November's historic turnout suggests the political coalitions that constitute our two-party system are once again shifting. As Republicans, we have many reasons for optimism. To seize the realignment, we cannot simply fall back on decades-old policy white papers. We must instead embrace a pro-American capitalism one that promotes the common good, as opposed to one that prioritizes Wall Street and Beijing and become a patriotic, pro-worker party that fights for dignified work, strong families, and vibrant communities. Over the last four years, the Republican Party has taken the lead in attempting to rebuild that capacity, and we cannot afford to let up. America's future prosperity requires that we recognize when market forces place our nation at a distinct disadvantage with our international competitors. And it will require federal policymakers to step in and create the conditions in which private investment and the vast power of American capitalism flow into critical industries for the good of our entire nation. Voters rejected the Democrats vision of America an irredeemably racist country that can only be saved by a revolution led by radical left-wing activists and funded by wealthy elites in the media, Silicon Valley, and Wall Street and are looking for a home. And these voters weren't just the white-working class Appalachians the media told us would alone shift red. They were my Cuban-American neighbors in my home state of Florida. They were Mexican-Americans in Texas. They were Native Americans in North Carolina and African-Americans all around the nation. The Democratic Party of 2020 has alienated all of them. Republicans need to compete for every voter it has left behind. Going forward, the GOP must be a multi-ethnic, multi-racial coalition of hard-working Americans who love their country. ... Rea… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=FEF59523-4E00-467F-9601-220F8B41BE74 ICYMI: Rubio: After Decades of Delay, Everglades Restoration Is Starting to Yield Real Results 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases After 20 years, progress on the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan is starting to yield resultsBy U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) December 11, 2020 Sun SentinelThis month, Floridians mark 20 years since Congress approved a federal-state framework to guide our efforts to restore the Everglades, a framework known as the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, or CERP.Unfortunately, in the early years, each CERP project required congressional approval, which meant initial progress was slow. As a result, headlines like the 2008 Sun Sentinel story Red tape, lack of money stall Everglades work regularly appeared on our doorsteps.That changed in 2016, after my good friend and then-chairman of the Senate Committee on Environmental and Public Works, Sen. James Inhofe (R-OK), became a proponent of Everglades restoration. In an op-ed supporting a package of CERP projects called the Central Everglades Planning Project (CEPP), Inhofe wrote, [m]y opposition to this important project has since changed, largely in part to my friend and colleague Sen. Marco Rubio.Securing passage of CEPP greenlit new projects in support of restoration goals and allowed us to make real progress over the past several years. Once complete, these components will be critical tools for directing more clean water south to the central Everglades, Everglades National Park, and ultimately, Florida Bay, where it's desperately needed.In 2018, Congress improved the CEPP and approved construction of the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Storage Reservoir. Not only will the reservoir assist with the distribution of clean water to Everglades National Park, it will also minimize the threat that harmful discharges from Lake Okeechob… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases-es?ContentRecord_id=B555F113-F099-4CD6-9837-B35D3D7F7F5F Una Administracin Biden No Debe Repetir Las Concesiones de Obama a Cuba 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Por el senador estadounidense Marco Rubio (R-FL) 10 de diciembre del 2020 El Nuevo Herald El rgimen cubano vuelve a tomar medidas severas al seguir arrestando a disidentes pacficos. Esta vez, la medida involucr el despliegue de oficiales vestidos con batas mdicas bajo el falso pretexto de las restricciones a raz del COVID-19. Este es un claro recordatorio del cinismo del rgimen y evidencia hasta dnde llegarn para acabar y censurar la protesta pacfica. La represin se produce cuando el rgimen de Castro y Daz-Canel enfrenta una mayor presin por parte del pueblo cubano, que exige que se respeten sus derechos a la libertad de expresin y otras libertades bsicas. A medida que la situacin en Cuba empeora, una administracin de Biden enfrentara una decisin crtica sobre cmo ser su poltica hacia la isla. Ser que Biden apoyar a los disidentes y continuar las reformas claves de la administracin Trump? No olvidemos que estas acciones han paralizado financieramente al rgimen y priorizado las demandas del pueblo cubano. O, volvera Biden a la fallida poltica de la administracin Obama de recompensar a Ral Castro y Miguel Daz-Canel limitando las sanciones y brindndole legitimidad poltica al rgimen por sus dcadas de comportamiento represivo? Ya sabemos cmo responde el rgimen cubano cuando cree que la ayuda puede estar en camino. En la actualidad, la dictadura se ha movido agresivamente para censurar a los artistas y los medios independientes, incluyendo los ataques continuos contra los miembros del Movimiento San Isidro. Sern ms los cubanos inocentes que pagarn el precio si volvemos a una poltica unilateral hacia Cuba y le brindamos un salvavidas al rgimen dictatorial de Ral Castro. ... Cualquier gobierno de EE.UU., especialmente uno liderado por Joe Biden, debe dejar explcitamente claro que comprende la desastrosa decisin que lider el presidente Obama de haber accedido a la liberacin e indulto del espa condenado por el rgimen por el asesinato de un residente de EE.UU. y a tres ciudadanos americanos, miembros de la organ… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=5882943B-B941-4367-8178-7EFC68C1E4BC Rubio Secures Provision in Defense Bill to Combat Financial Crime by Ending Anonymous Shell Companies 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) secured a provision in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021 (H.R. 6395) conference report that passed the Senate that will help stop criminals, including sophisticated criminal organizations, from using anonymous shell corporations to engage in illicit activities like money laundering, sex trafficking, fraud, and terrorist financing. The anti-money laundering provisions in the FY21 NDAA conference report includes and builds upon the Corporate Transparency Act (S. 1978), bipartisan legislation he reintroduced last year. The Senate's action sends the final conference report to the President.Senator Rubio first introduced the bipartisan Corporate Transparency Act with Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) in August 2017. In August 2018, Rubio, Wyden, and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) succeeded in passing bipartisan legislation to lay the groundwork to expand a U.S. Department of the Treasury initiative to curb foreign nationals laundering money through high-end real estate. The Miami Herald also published an in-depth report on Rubio's continued efforts to crackdown on dirty money in real estate.In my home State of Florida, including in Miami, our law enforcement professionals know all too well that criminals readily use shell companies to remain anonymous and hide nefarious activity, Rubio said. I was proud to help secure this important provision in the NDAA that targets criminals hiding behind shell companies to engage in illicit activities like human trafficking, healthcare fraud, transnational corruption, and terrorist financing. It is imperative that law enforcement has the basic information, tools, and authorities at its… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=B9620B5C-716E-44FF-9E98-226A3D161D0A Rubio, Warner Secure Critical 5G Provisions in Defense Bill 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Mark Warner (D-VA) secured a provision (Sec. 9202) in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021 (H.R. 6395) conference report that passed the Senate to support the development of a 5G wireless network by establishing the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund and the Multilateral Telecommunications Security Fund. The Senate's action sends the final conference report to the President. It is in our national security interests to support American competition in the 5G market and take action to counter efforts by Chinese state-directed telecommunications companies to dominate wireless technology supply chains, Rubio said. I was proud to secure this critical provision in the FY21 NDAA conference report that will support the development of an innovative 5G wireless network that leverages American strengths and creates American jobs in the industries of the future without relying on malign Chinese state-directed actors like Huawei and ZTE. For too long we've called for our allies and trading partners to reject Huawei digital infrastructure without providing competitively-priced, innovative alternatives that address their needs. I'm pleased to see my bipartisan, bicameral legislation included in this year's defense funding bill, Warner said. I look forward to working with Senate Appropriators next year to ensure that these programs which advance major national security priorities receive full funding in the coming year. Rubio and Warner's provision builds upon the bipartisan legislation they introduced earlier this year to encourage and support U.S. innovation in the race for 5G by providing more than $1 billion to invest in Western-based alternatives to Chinese equipment providers Huawei and ZTE, malign state-directed telecommunications companies that pose a clear and growing threat to the economic and national security of the U.S. and our allies. In July, Rubio and Warner supported an amendment that was adopted to the S… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D7CC4262-A5C7-4F1A-B71E-149C417265FE ICYMI: Rubio: A Biden Administration Must Not Repeat Obamas Concessions to Cubas Regime 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases A Biden Administration must not repeat Obama's concessions to Cuba's regimeBy U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL)December 10, 2020The Miami HeraldThe Cuban regime is once again cracking down and arresting peaceful dissidents. This time, the move involved deploying officers dressed in medical gowns under the false pretext of COVID-19 restrictions. It is a stark reminder of the cynical lengths the fledgling regime will go to stamp out and censor nonviolent protest.The ongoing crackdown comes as the Castro-Daz-Canel regime is facing increased pressure from the Cuban people, who are demanding that their rights to free speech and other basic liberties be respected.As the situation in Cuba worsens, a Biden Administration would face a critical decision when it comes to its policy toward the island. Would Biden stand with the dissidents and continue the Trump Administration's key reforms, which have financially crippled the regime and prioritized the demands of the Cuban people? Or would he return to the failed Obama Administration policy of rewarding Ral Castro and Miguel Daz-Canel with sanctions relief and political legitimacy for decades of repressive behavior?...We can already see how the Cuban regime responds when it thinks relief may be on the way.It has aggressively moved to censor artists and independent media, including its ongoing assault against members of the San Isidro movement. More innocent Cubans will pay the price if we return to a one-sided Cuba policy -- and throw a life-line to Ral Castro's dictatorial regime....Any U.S. administration especially one led by Joe Biden must make explicitly clear that it understands what a disastrous decision it was for President Obama to accede to the… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=E249ED77-E194-4BC7-838E-AFCABAC238AA Rubio, Coons Praise Passage Of Their Bipartisan Bill To Strengthen U.S.-Israel Strategic Alliance 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Chris Coons (D-DE) applauded the passage of their bipartisan United States-Israel Security Assistance Authorization Act (S.3176), which was included in the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bipartisan bill will strengthen the U.S.-Israel strategic alliance by authorizing $3.3 billion in annual security assistance consistent with the U.S.-Israel Memorandum of Understanding and ensures that Israel has what it needs to defend itself and is able to address both conventional and emerging threats.This bipartisan legislation has now overwhelmingly passed the Senate on a couple of occasions. The Senators previously introduced this legislation in 2018, and it was then included in the Senate-passed Strengthening America's Security in the Middle East Act of 2019 (S.1).The inclusion of this important and bipartisan bill in this year's NDAA reaffirms our nation's unwavering support to our strongest ally in the Middle East: the Jewish State of Israel, Rubio said. As Israel faces unprecedented threats from Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and other malign actors, we must continue to advance initiatives that protect and support our mutual security interests.A strong U.S.-Israel relationship remains a bipartisan priority, Coons said. The $3.3 billion in annual security assistance codified today was agreed to in a Memorandum of Understanding negotiated and signed by President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu in 2016. Tensions in the region continue to threaten Israeli security, and I'm proud that Congress is deepening the strategic U.S.-Israel alliance and bilateral non-security cooperation in the face of these challenges.Related: … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/five-more-bilirakis-authored-provisions-pass-house Five More Bilirakis-Authored Provisions Pass the House 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Florida's Most Effective Lawmaker keeps adding to his legislative successes, with five more provisions co-authored by Congressman Bilirakis passing the House this week. This now means that Bilirakis has 14 bills that have the passed the House this Congress and await final approval in the Senate. A total of eleven Bilirakis-authored bills have already been signed into law this since 2019, while he served as a Member of the minority party. This is a testament to Bilirakis's ability to work across party lines and is a contributing factor to Bilirakis recently being ranked as Florida's Most Bipartisan Member in the U.S. House of Representatives. "I look forward to getting these initiatives across the finish line before the end of the year," said Bilirakis. "They will help seniors, our military, their families and Veterans. I urge my Senate colleagues to expedite their passage so they can be signed into law." The Beneficiary Enrollment Notification and Eligibility Act of 2019 or the BENES Act, which Bilirakis co-authored, passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support earlier this week. Complex and confusing Medicare enrollment rules combined with a lack of sufficient notification cause tens of thousands of seniors and people with disabilities to incur lifetime fines, coverage gaps, and other harmful consequences. The BENES Act will provide advance notification to individuals approaching Medicare eligibility about basic enrollment rules while directing HHS to provide guidance to Congress on how best to align Medicare enrollment periods to help seniors avoid adverse consequences. A second bill co-authored by Bilirakis, the Provide Accurate Information Directly Act or PAID Act, also garnered bipartisan support when passing the House this week. The PAID Act addresses a problem with Medicare billing. Medicare secondary payer laws enacted in the 1980s have failed to stay current with the needs of today's beneficiaries, and the PAID Act requires improved information sharing and coordination by the Centers for Medic… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/buchanan-measure-headed-president-s-desk Buchanan Measure Headed to Presidents Desk 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON The U.S. Senate today passed the final version of a sweeping defense bill that includes Congressman Vern Buchanan's measure to reduce training accidentsfollowing the death of a Bradenton soldier The bill cleared the U.S. House Tuesday and is now on its way to President Trump's desk. Buchanan filed the measure to this year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in July as a part of his push for military training reforms after Army Specialist Nicholas Panipinto of Bradenton died in a vehicle training accident in South Korea last year. A lack of emergency services on base and delays in medical response was cited in his death. The highest tribute that can be paid to the life of Specialist Panipinto is for the Defense Department to ensure that future military personnel who are injured during training exercises can quickly receive high-quality medical treatment that might help save their lives, Buchanan said. I am deeply humbled that Nick's mother came to me with their tragic story and has allowed me to help. I know that these reforms will save lives and prevent future heartache felt by families like hers across the country. Buchanan's amendment requires the Department of Defense to examine emergency response capabilities and services currently available at U.S. military bases around the world and to report toCongress on the potential benefits and feasibility of requiringbases to have properly functioning MedEvac helicopters and fully-stocked military ambulances. The U.S. House initially passed its version of the NDAA in July, with Buchanan's amendment included, and the Senate later followed suit passing its own separate version. The U.S. House and Senate then had to reconcile their competing versions and produce a final conference report. Specialist Panipinto's mother, Kimberly Weaver, praised Buchanan saying, This isn't just a win for our family, but for every military family. We are so thankful to Congressman Buchanan for all of his help in getting these necessary changes one step closer to being s… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dunn.house.gov/2020/12/congressman-dunn-credits-operation-warp-speed-with-rapid-vaccine-development Congressman Dunn Credits Operation Warp Speed with Rapid Vaccine Development 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Neal Dunn D000628 dunn.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Representative Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02) made the following statement following the Food & Drug Administration (FDA)'s emergency use authorization approval of the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer Inc. and partner BioNTech SE. This is a monumental step in our fight against COVID-19. The Trump Administration's Operation Warp Speed played an instrumental role in supporting the development of this safe and effective vaccine. Pfizer and BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine has a 95% efficacy rate and will entail two doses that are administered 21 days apart. The company plans to distribute about 25 million doses in the U.S. by the end of the year if you do not receive a vaccine immediately following its release, there are more on the way. I've been in close communication with the Governor's Office regarding distribution and will continue working with the state and my district to ensure my constituents receive the most updated information on the vaccines. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=208 Congressman Dunn Credits Operation Warp Speed with Rapid Vaccine Development 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Neal P. Dunn D000628 dunn.house.gov dunn https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Today, Representative Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02) made the following statement following the Food & Drug Administration (FDA)’s emergency use authorization approval of the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer Inc. and partner BioNTech SE. “This is a monumental step in our fight against COVID-19. The Trump Administration’s Operation Warp Speed played an instrumental role in supporting the development of this safe and effective vaccine. Pfizer and BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine has a 95% efficacy rate and will entail two doses that are administered 21 days apart. The company plans to distribute about 25 million doses in the U.S. by the end of the year – if you do not receive a vaccine immediately following its release, there are more on the way. I’ve been in close communication with the Governor’s Office regarding distribution and will continue working with the state and my district to ensure my constituents receive the most updated information on the vaccines.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-applauds-pfizer-vaccine-approval Diaz-Balart Applauds Pfizer Vaccine Approval 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. ­­–– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement following the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) announcement approving the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. "This year, we have witnessed the largest scientific, government, and private sector mobilization in recent history. In just a few months, we have made historic progress with the development of COVID-19 treatments and even developed multiple vaccines with proven effectiveness. The Trump Administration has worked hand in hand with our military,medical experts, and the private sector to develop and manufacture a safe and effectivevaccinein record time, and now, thanks to Operation Warp Speed, we can begin distributing this vaccine as quickly and reliably as possible. I am proud of our nation's unprecedented efforts to treat this virus, and I commend this Administration's diligent work in prioritizing the health and safety of the American people." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=13C87504-E7F1-48A1-8E3D-055285B90AA9 Mast Bill To Honor Fallen Florida Trooper Joseph Bullock Passes House 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Brian Mast M001199 mast.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18)'s legislation to designate the United States Post Office in Port Salerno, Fla. as the Joseph Bullock Post Office Building passed the House of Representatives today. This legislation would change the name of this facility to honor the life and sacrifice of Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Joseph Bullock, who was fatally shot in the line of duty on February 5, 2020. There are no words or actions that can pay the debt we each owe heroes like Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Joseph Bullock, Rep. Mast said. But today, the House of Representatives helped me honor a hero by passing this legislation, preserving his legacy in our community for generations to come. Trooper Bullock was fatally shot on February 5, 2020 while assisting a disabled vehicle in Martin County, Fla. Trooper Bullock spent his career protecting the people of Florida, serving as a member of the Florida Highway Patrol for 19 years. Prior to serving on the Florida Highway Patrol, Trooper Bullock served our nation in the United States Air Force. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://steube.house.gov/media/press-releases/steube-joins-colleagues-letter-president-trump-urging-doj-investigation Steube Joins Colleagues in Letter to President Trump Urging a DOJ Investigation into Irregularities in the 2020 Election 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Greg Steube S001214 steube.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) joined colleagues in sending a letter to President Trump urging him to direct Attorney General Barr to appoint a Special Counsel to investigate irregularities in the 2020 election. Every single allegation of fraud should be thoroughly investigated, and anyone found unlawfully interfering in our electoral process should be held criminally accountable. Steube said. From potentially thousands of uncounted ballots being found in Georgia, to instances of deceased people voting in New York City, it is clear that the integrity of our elections and even our system of government is at stake. Despite dozens of accounts of voter fraud, an investigation has not yet been opened at the Department of Justice. Many instances of suspicious activity have been reported, including almost 2,600 that were not tallied on election night in Floyd County, Georgia, and reports showing that ballots were mailed into the New York City Board of Elections in the name of dead voters. You can read the full text of the letter here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-joins-colleagues-in-letter-to-president-trump-urging-a-doj-investigation-into-irregularities-in-the-2020-election/ Steube Joins Colleagues in Letter to President Trump Urging a DOJ Investigation into Irregularities in the 2020 Election 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Joins Colleagues in Letter to President Trump Urging a DOJ Investigation into Irregularities in the 2020 Election WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) joined colleagues in sending a letter to President Trump urging him to direct Attorney General Barr to appoint a Special Counsel to investigate irregularities in the 2020 election. “Every single allegation of fraud should be thoroughly investigated, and anyone found unlawfully interfering in our electoral process should be held criminally accountable.” Steube said. “From potentially thousands of uncounted ballots being found in Georgia, to instances of deceased people voting in New York City, it is clear that the integrity of our elections and even our system of government is at stake.” Despite dozens of accounts of voter fraud, an investigation has not yet been opened at the Department of Justice. Many instances of suspicious activity have been reported, including almost 2,600 that were not tallied on election night in Floyd County, Georgia, and reports showing that ballots were mailed into the New York City Board of Elections in the name of dead voters. You can read the full text of the letter here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases-es?ContentRecord_id=85D330B4-9FBA-4F9A-B484-32B194543D7B Rubio Junto a Menndez Presentan Ley en Apoyo al aumento de Capital del BID 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Sala de Prensa Inicio Sala de Prensa Sala de Prensa Washington, DC - El senador estadounidense Marco Rubio (R-FL) junto a Bob Menendez (D-NJ), el miembro de ms alto rango del Comit de Relaciones Exteriores, presentaron una nueva legislacin que autoriza el dcimo aumento general de capital para el Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo (BID, por sus siglas en espaol), la institucin financiera lder en el hemisferio. En un momento en que los pases de la regin han sufrido el impacto econmico causado por la pandemia del COVID-19 y tras los devastadores huracanes en la regin, el histrico proyecto de ley destaca los esfuerzos del Congreso de EE.UU. para priorizar y asegurar un aumento en el capital del BID.La legislacin aumentara los prstamos anuales del BID en $20 mil millones de dlares y fortalecera su capacidad para liderar los esfuerzos financieros en Amrica Latina y el Caribe. Como parte del aumento del capital, el proyecto de ley fomenta el apoyo a la creacin del primer fondo ambiental y servicio crediticio del BID, una iniciativa pionera que posicionara al Banco para ampliar los esfuerzos para mejorar la sostenibilidad ambiental y la preparacin para los desastres naturales en el hemisferio.Rubio es la presidente del Subcomit de Relaciones Exteriores para el Hemisferio Occidental, Delincuencia Transnacional, Seguridad Civil, Democracia, Derechos Humanos y Asuntos Globales de la Mujer.Con las crecientes adversidades econmicas que enfrenta nuestra regin, causadas por la pandemia del COVID-19 o la destruccin tras el paso de los desastres naturales, me enorgullece unirme al senador Menndez en presentar este importante proyecto de ley, Rubio dijo. Al apoyar el avance del aumento del capit… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6E456EEA-7CAC-4724-95EC-9661FBA7533D Now: Rubio Chairs Hearing on the Paycheck Protection Program and Its Future 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, convened a hearing titled, Small Business in Crisis: The 2020 Paycheck Protection Program and its Future.A live-stream of the hearing can be found on the committee's website here.Chairman Rubio's opening remarks as prepared can be found below.Chairman Rubio: I would like to thank everyone for joining us, both in person and virtually, and welcome our witnesses before the Committee.The coronavirus pandemic has affected virtually every part of our lives; our health, our education, our jobs, our communities, our families, and our economy.The pandemic and nationwide lockdowns were thenand remain nowa crisis for America's small businesses.In March, as the pandemic and mandatory lockdowns began crushing small businesses, the Senate and bipartisan members of this Committee responded by coming together and enacting historic support for small businesses in the CARES Act.One of those lifelines was an entirely new program, built upon the network of community banks that the SBA has worked with for many years, to deliver capital to small businesses.That support was the Paycheck Protection Program. And, in this crisis, we called upon every inch of America's financial infrastructure to deliver the help it brought to small businesses.Now, in retrospective, it is clear that the PPP has been the most effective piece from the bipartisan CARES Act.PPP is arguably the largest singular federal fiscal relief program enacted in recent history, delivering more than $525 billion to small businesses and nonprofits across the country.PPP had two main goals: help workers keep their jobs, and protect s… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8E761307-B38B-482E-B7E6-36DF891442B6 English/ Espaol: Rubio Joins Menendez in Unveiling Legislation in Support of Capital Increase for IDB 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, in introducing new legislation authorizing the tenth general capital increase for the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the hemisphere's leading international financial institution. At a moment when countries in the region have suffered from the widespread economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and devastating hurricanes in the region, the historic bill highlights efforts by the U.S. Congress to prioritize and secure an IDB capital increase.The legislation would increase the IDB's annual lending by $20 billion and strengthen its ability to lead financial efforts across Latin America and the Caribbean. As part of the capital increase, the bill encourages support for the creation of the IDB's first environmental fund and lending facilitya groundbreaking initiative that would position the Bank to expand efforts to improve environmental sustainability and disaster preparedness in the hemisphere.Rubio is the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian Security, Democracy, Human Rights, and Global Women's Issues.With the growing economic adversities our region is confronting, caused by the COVID-19 pandemic or the destruction left behind after previous natural disasters, I'm proud to join Senator Menendez in introducing this important bill, Rubio said. By supporting the advancement of the Inter-American Development Bank's capital increase, we are reaffirming America's leadership in our hemisphere through the IDB's financial initiatives. We must do all we can to counter China's predatory scheme… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=950CEEAE-9B55-479D-BE2E-0831176E8F95 Rubio: McKinsey Remains Silent on Its Work for Chinese Communist Party 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) following McKinsey & Company's long overdue apology for its role in fueling America's opioid crisis.McKinsey's weakly worded apology for its work on behalf of the opioid industry is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to issues the American people ought to be concerned about, Rubio said. Many of my concerns stem from the fact that the company has been less than forthcoming to put it mildly when it comes to their relationship with the Chinese Communist Party.In fact, despite working on key CCP projects like the Belt and Road Initiative' and consulting for the state-owned client that built artificial reefs the Chinese military uses in the South China Sea, McKinsey continues to maintain that it does not perform work that benefits the CCP, Rubio continued. McKinsey's inability to provide clear, direct answers about its relations with the CCP, any work it may have done for the Central Military Commission of China, its work on areas of critical national interest to the United States, its involvement in the detention of ethnic minorities, the presence of Communist Party branches within the company's very own offices in China, and many other topics should concern to all Americans.On November 13, Rubio sent a follow-up letter to McKinsey & Company's Global Managing Partner Kevin Sneader after receiving inadequate responses and, in some instances, no response to the senator's initial July 17, 2020 letter requesting information regarding McKinsey & Company's relationship with the Chinese Government and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), including state-owned and state-run companies in China, and what impact those relationships have … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=C8FBAAE3-1402-4A20-A270-632141D03294 Chairman Rubio and Ranking Member Cardin Issue Joint Statement on Human Rights Day 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Ben Cardin (D-MD), Chairman and Ranking Member, respectively, of the Foreign Relations' Subcommittee overseeing Human Rights, on the observance of Human Rights Day, issued the following joint statement: Today, on Human Rights Day, which marks the adoption of the U.N. Universal Declaration on Human Rights, we celebrate the fundamental rights of all people that no government or individual has the authority to take away. Tragically, millions of people around the world are denied their most basic freedoms and dignity daily. As authoritarianism is on the rise in many corners of the world, the legitimate demands for freedom have increased. We have witnessed citizens take to the streets to exercise their right to protest and demand accountability and change from corrupt regimes. We have also heard the stories of horrific human rights abuses taking place across the globe. The Chinese Communist Party is rounding up Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities and committing unspeakable crimes, which potentially amount to genocide, repressing the rights of Tibetans, crushing freedom in Hong Kong, and attempting to silence dissent inside of China and increasingly outside of China. In Burma, a campaign of violence unleashed against the Rohingya by military forces continues. In Venezuela, the Maduro regime has pressed on with sham legislative elections that were neither free nor fair and has continued its deadly crackdowns. Cuba's attacks against peaceful protestors and members of the press persists. The terror-sponsoring regime in Iran this year executed an Olympic wrestler, Navid Afkari, solely for exercising his fundamental right to expression. In Russia, critics of Putin are poisoned or arbitrarily detained. The Belarusian people have faced repression, detentions, and violent crackdowns for simply calling for legitimate and free elections. Women remain locked up in Saudi Arabia for advocating the rights of all Saudi women. The list sadly goes on. The United States must cont… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D7DA43A3-26A4-452E-A2F1-10E842B1598F Rubio Details Historic Success of the Paycheck Protection Program 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, detailed the historic success of the Paycheck Protection Program in a CNBC op-ed and a detailed analysis posted on Medium. This morning at 10:00 a.m. EST, he will convene a hearing titled, Small Business in Crisis: The 2020 Paycheck Protection Program and its Future. Writing in CNBC, Rubio says PPP is the single largest federal fiscal policy program enacted in recent history and the single most effective relief program passed by Congress. He continues: Across the United States, the PPP helped support up to 55 million jobs, including up to 4.5 million in manufacturing, with an average firm size of just 20 employees. Even before the pandemic, manufacturing was experiencing a widening skills gap. An inability to retain skilled employees through the downturn would have exacerbated that gap and further degraded American global competitiveness. The PPP acted as an emergency brake on further decline. Despite cynical attacks, the program's benefits swept across businesses in every industry and corner of our nation.And while many in the media and cynical politicians have tried to make a claim of massive fraud, the evidence appears to point otherwise. As Democrat Chairman of the House Select Committee on the Coronavirus Crisis Jim Clyburn found this September, the PPP fraud rate of 0.76 percent is actually lower than estimates for the private mortgage market and other CARES Act programs. And thanks to the work of mission-oriented lenders and community development financial institutions, minority-owned small businesses -- long among the most vulnerable to exogenous shocks -- benefited especially. Black and Hispanic-owned firms account for 7.8 percent of all small businesses in America, but they received 10.6 percent of total PPP loans distributed, resulting in 10 percent of the total jobs retained. In a separate, 2,900-word Medium piece, Rubio details the program's historic success with data, analy… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D94DEB9A-9BD4-480D-BB79-8447128C5662 Rubio Names Bayshore Fit of Florida as the Senate Small Business of the Week 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, named Bayshore Fit of Tampa, Florida as the U.S. Senate Small Business of the Week.Rubio released the following video message to congratulate Bayshore Fit as the Senate Small Business of the Week. A broadcast quality version can be found here.Hello, I'm Senator Marco Rubio, the Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.And today, it's my honor to recognize Bayshore Fit of Tampa, Florida as the Senate Small Business of the Week.When Beth Scanlan and Jeff Fink founded Bayshore Fit in 2012, they set out not only to create a gym, but a community.As they have grown, Bayshore Fit has kept their focus on helping each client attain their unique goals and lead healthier lives.Jeff and Beth are committed to their local business community, and are members of both the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce and the Westshore Alliance.Like many of Florida's small businesses, Bayshore Fit needed to close its gyms due to the public health closures earlier this year.Bayshore Fit was approved for a Paycheck Protection Program loan, a small business relief program that I was proud to be the author of.As a result, they were able to keep their employees paid until gyms across Florida reopened.Thanks to the PPP Program, Bayshore Fit is able to once again open its doors, taking the health precautions necessary to keep their community of clients and employees safe.So Congratulations to Beth, Jeff, and the entire team at Bayshore Fit for being named the Senate Small Business of the Week!I look forward to seeing your continued success.As Chairman of the Senate Com… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=DBAE23ED-059A-4E95-967A-47A3992361E1 Rubio Welcomes Drug Free Community Grants for Florida 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Republican Senate FL Marco Rubio R000595 www.rubio.senate.gov     legacy Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) welcomed the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy's (ONDCP) announcement that communities in Florida will receive a total of $1,875,000 to prevent youth substance abuse through its Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program. The DFC Support Program provides grants to community coalitions to strengthen the infrastructure among local partners to create and sustain a reduction in local youth substance use.Ensuring that Florida is a safe and drug-free place to raise a family has long been a priority of mine, Rubio said. I am grateful that the Administration is investing in substance use prevention, and I remain committed to working toward solutions that will lead to better outcomes and brighter futures for our children and communities.Below is a list of the grant recipients and amounts: The Martin County Drug Free Youth Coalition: $125,000 The Baker Prevention Coalition: $ 625,000 The Drug Free Punta Gorda Coalition: $125,000 The Safe and Healthy Duval Coalition, Inc dba Drug Free Duval: $125,000 The Urban Partnership of Miami-Dade County Coalition: $125,000 The Drug Free Sarasota Coalition: $125,000 The Brevard Prevention Coalition: $625,000 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2020/12/buchanan-measure-headed-president-s-desk Buchanan Measure Headed to President’s Desk 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate today passed the final version of a sweeping defense bill that includes Congressman Vern Buchanan’s measure to reduce training accidents following the death of a Bradenton soldier The bill cleared the U.S. House Tuesday and is now on its way to President Trump’s desk. Buchanan filed the measure to this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in July as a part of his push for military training reforms after Army Specialist Nicholas Panipinto of Bradenton died in a vehicle training accident in South Korea last year. A lack of emergency services on base and delays in medical response was cited in his death. “The highest tribute that can be paid to the life of Specialist Panipinto is for the Defense Department to ensure that future military personnel who are injured during training exercises can quickly receive high-quality medical treatment that might help save their lives,” Buchanan said. “I am deeply humbled that Nick’s mother came to me with their tragic story and has allowed me to help. I know that these reforms will save lives and prevent future heartache felt by families like hers across the country.” Buchanan’s amendment requires the Department of Defense to examine emergency response capabilities and services currently available at U.S. military bases around the world and to report to Congress on the potential benefits and feasibility of requiring bases to have properly functioning MedEvac helicopters and fully-stocked military ambulances. The U.S. House initially passed its version of the NDAA in July, with Buchanan’s amendment included, and the Senate later followed suit passing its own separate version. The U.S. House and Senate then had to reconcile their competing versions and produce a final conference report. Specialist Panipinto’s mother, Kimberly Weaver, praised Buchanan saying, “This isn’t just a win for our family, but for every military family. We are so thankful to Congressman Buchanan for all of his help in getting these necessary changes one step clo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z

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