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

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670 rows where party = "Republican", state = "FL" and year = 2021 sorted by date descending

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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://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-gets-another-win Buchanan Gets Another Win! 2021-12-27 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Congressman Vern Buchanan today announced that his proposal to implement a series of sweeping new military training reforms has been signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This marks Buchanan’s 24th legislative initiative to be signed into law since he first came to Congress in 2007. Buchanan has been a leading advocate in Congress for reforming our current training procedures and improving emergency response capabilities after the tragic death of Army Specialist Nicholas Panipinto of Bradenton. Panipinto died in a vehicle training accident in South Korea in 2019. “The death of Specialist Panipinto is a tragedy that never should have happened,” said Buchanan. “That’s why I’m committed to doing everything I can to make sure that no other family has to endure similar heartache. The greatest tribute we can pay to Nick is to ensure that future and entirely preventable military training accidents never happen again.” Specifically, the legislation requires the Pentagon to: Implement more realistic training practices Develop stricter enforcement standards And ensure better oversight to prevent future military training accidents and deaths. Buchanan introduced the legislation as a standalone bill (H.R. 5268) and as an amendment to the NDAA following a report from the government’s top watchdog office that found a lack of driver training and failures to properly oversee and implement key safety procedures were largely to blame for several fatal training accidents. Buchanan’s proposal closely mirrors a provision included in the final version of the NDAA, which President Biden signed into law on Monday. The NDAA overwhelmingly passed the U.S. House and Senate by votes of 363-70 and 88-11, respectively. According to Panipinto’s mother, Kimberly Weaver, Panipinto did not have a license, the required amount of driver training or any classroom instruction before beginning his road-test. “The devastating loss of Nicholas was compounded by the fact that it was totally preven… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-lauds-air-force-decision-designate-macdill-main-operation-base-kc-46 Bilirakis Lauds Air Force Decision to Designate MacDill as Main Operation Base for KC-46 Pegasus 2021-12-23 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Palm Harbor: U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis applauds the United States Air Force's recent decision to select MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa as its home base for 24 new KC-46 Pegasus tankers. MacDill Air Force Base is already home to 28 associate units from all branches of the military, including: U.S. Central Command, U.S. Special Operations Command and the 927th Air Refueling Wing. The diverse human and technological resources needed to support these vital operations uniquely benefits the Tampa Bay area, and the community recognizes the significance contributions the base makes to the region. According to the Air Force, the decision to place the Pegasus program at MacDill was made after conducting site surveys that evaluated a variety of factors associated with each potential base, including: mission, infrastructure capacity, community support, cost and environment considerations. "There is no where in the country that supports its military community more than Tampa Bay," said local Congressman Gus Bilirakis. "We recognize MacDill as a key community asset and support the men and women stationed there who bravely serve our nation. This new program will serve as an important catalyst for continued economic development and we welcome it to our area." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-joins-wwii-veteran-constituent-in-celebration-of-100th-birthday/ Rep. Steube Joins WWII Veteran Constituent In Celebration of 100th Birthday 2021-12-22 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Rep. Steube Joins WWII Veteran Constituent In Celebration of 100th Birthday PUNTA GORDA, FLA.— Yesterday, U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) recognized WWII veteran constituent, Walter Neef, in celebration of his 100th birthday. “Walter is a proud patriotic American of the Greatest Generation who I am honored to represent in Congress,” said Congressman Steube. “This district is blessed to have incredible veterans like Walter who have dedicated so much to this country. As we celebrate his 100th birthday, let us always remember the sacrifices Walter and his generation made to preserve the freedoms we enjoy today.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=283 Franklin Congratulates MacDill Air Force Base on Being Selected to Base KC-46 Tanker Aircraft 2021-12-21 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Scott Franklin F000472 franklin.house.gov franklin https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, congratulated MacDill Air Force Base on being selected by the Secretary of the Air Force as the next Main Operating Base (MOB) for 24 new KC-46 Pegasus tankers. The U.S Air Force previously identified MacDill and Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington state as the top two candidates for the new KC-46s. Rep. Franklin helped lead a letter in June with the entire bipartisan Florida Congressional Delegation urging Air Force Secretary John P. Roth to select MacDill as the next MOB for the tankers. “MacDill is the right choice for the KC-46’s new operating base,” said Rep. Franklin. “It is home to 33 mission partner units from all branches of service, including U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command, making it an ideal setting for these aircraft. The KC-135 Stratotanker has been a work horse in support of military aviation since the mid-1950’s, but its time had passed. When I was a young Naval Aviator over 30 years ago, we were already looking eagerly to its replacement. That time has finally arrived, and I’m proud to know that MacDill will be the new home for the KC-46. The Tampa Bay area is highly respected for its support of our servicemembers and their families. I look forward to welcoming more of them to our community with the selection.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammack-names-man-steel-duane-dewey-fl-03-2021-veteran-year Congresswoman Kat Cammack Names 'Man Of Steel' Duane Dewey FL-03 2021 Veteran Of The Year 2021-12-20 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Kat Cammack C001039 cammack.house.gov cammack https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper GAINESVILLE, FL – Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack announced this year's Veteran of the Year as Mr. Duane Dewey, a Medal of Honor recipient, for his courageous actions during the Korean War in 1952. Known as the "Man of Steel" in Florida's Third Congressional District, Corporal Duane Edgar Dewey received the Medal of Honor in March 1953 from President Dwight D. Eisenhower following his heroic actions near Panmunjom, Korea with the machine gun platoon of Company E of the United States Marine Corps. When an enemy grenade landed close to his position while he and his assistant gunner received medical attention for their wounds during a night attack, Corporal Dewey pulled his fellow corpsman to the ground, shouted a warning to the other Marines around him, and bravely smothered the deadly missile with his body, personally absorbing the full force of the explosion to save the lives of those around him. When accepting the Medal of Honor from President Eisenhower after significant months of recuperation, the president joked, "you must be made of steel," and the nickname stuck. Corporal Dewey was a fixture in the North Central Florida community, where he spent several months out of the year when not in his home state of Michigan. He was a member of the Korean War Veterans Association in Gainesville and known for his friendship, bravery, and support of his fellow veterans, often bashful about his service record to the point that few even knew they were in the presence of a recognized hero. "It is only fitting that the inaugural Veteran of the Year is one of the bravest men to have served our country," said Rep. Cammack. "During an incredibly harrowing time, Cpl. Dewey willingly sacrificed himself to save the lives of the men around him, setting a tremendous example for service and bravery. We were so lucky to have him in our part of Florida for many years, and I know we will continue to miss him dearly. Thank you, sir." Corporal Dewey passed away earlier this year in St. Augustine, Florida on October 11. He is surviv… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FC3EAB99-E882-42BE-A3C2-DC6DF6F3ABA1 Webster & Signs Amicus Brief in Support of Navy Service Members Seeking Religious Accommodations for the Department of Defense’s COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate 2021-12-20 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont joined Constitutional law litigator Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04) and 37 House Republicans today in filing an Amicus Brief before the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas in support of 35 Navy service members seeking religious accommodations for the Department of Defense’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. The brief states: “The very first clause of the very First Amendment explicitly states that ‘Congress shall make no law… prohibiting the free exercise’ of religion. This amendment, case law, and Congress’s decision to pass the Religious Freedom Restoration Act all testify to the fact that, without entrenched, generally applicable, and judicially enforceable protections for religious liberty, lawmakers and government bureaucrats are susceptible to override sincere religious beliefs in favor of what they mistakenly see as the greater good. That is what is happening with Defendants’ vaccine mandate.” The brief continues: “Plaintiffs’ religious liberty and the government’s asserted interest in protecting our service members from COVID-19 need not be in conflict, especially where, as here, the individuals seeking an exemption are willing to adopt non-vaccination measures to protect themselves and others from the spread of COVID-19.” The brief concludes: “Indeed, the impact on the military and our national security strongly counsels in favor of granting a preliminary injunction. The mandate is sidelining the deployment of soldiers on whose service our country relies. If this mandate (as currently being applied or threatened) is not enjoined, these Plaintiffs cannot fulfill their pledge to serve and defend our country, even though, based upon their training and experience, these Plaintiffs, as well as others similarly situated, are some of our most qualified, equipped, and fearless soldiers… Now they ask this Court to protect their religious freedom from encroachment by the very government they have sworn to protect with their … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-applauds-105-million-loan-sarasota-county-water-treatment Buchanan Applauds $105 Million Loan for Sarasota County Water Treatment Facility 2021-12-19 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper SARASOTA, Fla. – Congressman Vern Buchanan today applauded the approval of a $105 million low interest rate loan to the Bee Ridge Water Reclamation Facility (BRWRF) Expansion and Wastewater Treatment Conversion Project from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This loan will be used to upgrade existing infrastructure to state-of-the-art water treatment technology. “Clean water is critical to our economy and quality of life here on the Suncoast,” said Buchanan “These innovative upgrades to the BRWRF will be a significant improvement to our local water infrastructure and serve my constituents in the area with more sustainable, cleaner water.” Financing for the expansion and conversion project was provided by the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program. Funds will be used to construct new facilities, utilities and on-site infrastructure and to demolish existing facilities, including secondary clarifiers and deep bed filters. Upgrades of this caliber have not previously been developed in Florida. In December 2020, Buchanan sent a letter to EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler urging the EPA consider Sarasota County’s request for WIFIA financing to improve water quality at BRWRF. BRWRF is a 143-acre facility located solely in Florida’s 16th congressional district. Upgrades to the BRWRF will benefit 90,980 Sarasota County residents in Buchanan’s district. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-addresses-manasota-key-erosion-in-meeting-with-army-corps-of-engineers/ Rep. Steube Addresses Manasota Key Erosion in Meeting with Army Corps of Engineers 2021-12-19 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Rep. Steube Addresses Manasota Key Erosion in Meeting with Army Corps of Engineers Charlotte County, FL – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-FL) yesterday joined Charlotte County leaders in a meeting and site visit with the Army Corps of Engineers and Colonel James L. Booth to discuss rehabilitation solutions for Manasota Key’s deteriorating shoreline. “In recent years, Charlotte County has sustained significant shoreline erosion and other damage from various weather events,” Steube said.”On Dec 1, 2021, I sent a letter to the Corps expressing my concern for these worsening conditions and have requested the inclusion of the study and construction of a shoreline rehabilitation project currently being considered by the Army Corps.” The federal project will help protect critical infrastructure, including homes, condos, and hurricane evacuation routes. Charlotte County has declared several emergencies since 2014 due to the impact of the erosion on homes and infrastructure. The erosion, in some cases, has destabilized homes and condominium buildings to the point where they are no longer safe to enter. The beaches within the project area begin in Sarasota County, and the project extends for over 4.4 miles across the Sarasota County/Charlotte County line south to Stump Pass Beach State Park. Florida’s 17th Congressional District’s land area is over 6,300 square miles and is home to portions of Florida’s Gulf Coast, including shoreline in Sarasota and Charlotte County. To view Congressman Steube’s December 1 letter to the Army Corps, click here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-sits-down-community-leaders-identifies-next-steps-tackling-fentanyl Bilirakis Sits Down with Community Leaders, Identifies Next Steps in Tackling Fentanyl Crisis 2021-12-17 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper December 17, 2021 Congressman Gus Bilirakis held a roundtable discussion this week with local emergency room physicians, behavioral health clinicians, health department officials, law enforcement and other community leaders to learn more about how fentanyl is impacting the Tampa Bay area and identify ways Congress can provide more effective assistance. According to the CDC, 100,000 Americans have died from fentanyl-related overdoses in the past year. Pasco and Pinellas counties report approximately 800 fentanyl deaths in 2021 alone. The goal of the meeting was to identify specific policy recommendations that would assist local stakeholders who are on the front lines of this struggle. "This is a public health crisis. While law enforcement plays a key role in addressing these problems, as long as there is demand criminal elements will always find a way to create supply. Since we cannot arrest our way out of this situation, we must find ways to better treat addiction. These are our neighbors who are dying, often accidentally because the substances they are taking are laced with deadly fentanyl," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. "The time to act is now. We must expand access to treatment, enhance prevention strategies, remove barriers that keep providers from being able to implement best practices, crack down on China for supplying deadly drugs, secure our southern border, and give law enforcement the tools it needs to go after the suppliers who are profiting off those who are struggling with addiction." The following actions were suggested by the group of local experts, some of which have already been acted upon by Congressman Bilirakis: Increase enforcement for existing behavioral health parity laws because it is a serious barrier to getting people the help they need. Congressman Bilirakis has sponsored the Mental Health Parity Enforcement Act to address this issue. The Tampa Bay region has received significant federal funding in recent years however much of it can't be spent within the timeframes established b… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-bilirakis-frankel-dingell-introduce-bill-improve-public-health-programs Reps. Bilirakis, Frankel, Dingell Introduce Bill to Improve Public Health Programs for Older Adults 2021-12-16 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), Lois Frankel (D-FL-21), and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-12) introduced the Protecting the Health of America's Older Adults Act. This bipartisan legislation would create a program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to improve the health and well-being of older adults and provide grants to state and local health departments to implement age-friendly public health programs. "We owe it to our seniors to ensure they have access to the best possible health care," said Rep. Bilirakis. "As the population continues to age, it only makes sense that public health officials are working closely with senior advocacy organizations to identify and address unmet needs." "As people age, they face unique health challenges including dementia, food insecurity, balance, and isolation," said Rep. Frankel. "This bipartisan legislation will provide the CDC and state and local health departments with resources to address these, and other critical health issues older Americans confront every day." "The number of Americans ages 65 and older will more than double over the next 40 years. We have the power to prepare for this through strategic legislation that supports critical resources for older Americans," said Rep. Dingell. "I'm proud to work with my colleague Rep. Lois Frankel to introduce the Protecting the Health of America's Older Adults Act to create a Healthy Aging program at the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention. From lowering health care costs to improving health equity, this program will be a lifeline to the American people as they age." There are many issues faced by seniors across the public health spectrum, including: transportation and housing access, chronic disease, and mental health. Improving coordination of services for seniors will benefit our entire society. The CDC program created by this legislation will provide grants and technical assistance to state, local, territorial, and tribal health departments for: Improving the coor… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-recognizes-alex-meyer-as-december-fl-17-mvp/ Steube Recognizes Alex Meyer as December FL-17 MVP 2021-12-16 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Recognizes Alex Meyer as December FL-17 MVP FORT MYERS, FLA.— Today, U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) recognized Punta Gorda Local Alex Meyer as December‘s FL-17 MVP. “Alex Meyer embodies the qualities that make our community great. Alex is compassionate, generous, outgoing, dedicated, and he’s a fighter.” Steube said. “Despite battling his numerous medical obstacles, Alex persevered and continuously gave back to our community, and communities across the country, helping other children in need.” Alex undergoes chemotherapy and is currently a patient at John Hopkins All Children’s in St. Petersburg. He has received over 60 chemo infusions since his diagnosis and has since started oral chemo twice daily for four months. Throughout his treatment, Alex has lost over 75% of his vision, his sense of smell, the majority of his sense of taste, and has short-term memory loss. During a chemo appointment last year, here at Golisano, Alex asked his parents if they could do a family toy drive. They started going shopping every Sunday after church and ended up purchasing almost 600 toys from stores all over town. The Meyers Family then started the Ironman Alex’s Toy Drive. Alex’s goal was to collect a thousand toys. Through social media, local press, and community outreach, he started receiving packages from all over the world. Alex has collected and donated thousands of toys and continues his incredible charitable work. Rep. Steube presented Alex Meyer with a certificate and flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in his honor. Each month, Rep. Steube and his team recognize an MVP from the 17th Congressional District who has made outstanding and unique contributions to the community. The purpose of this award is to recognize the unsung heroes across the District as they display extraordinary dedication to making a difference. MVPs are presented with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to thank them for their work and are publicly recognized in Rep. Steube’s weekly newsletter. To submit deserving nominees, consti… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=271 Franklin Applauds House Passage of Annual Defense Bill 2021-12-15 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Scott Franklin F000472 franklin.house.gov franklin https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, today acted in support of our nation’s military service members by voting for passage of S. 1605, the National Defense Authorization Act of 2022, on Tuesday evening. “Our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Guardians, and Marines face ongoing global threats in defense of our nation,” said Rep. Franklin. “Passing this bill is a critical step to providing them with needed support and resources to continue their remarkable legacy of defending America. Tonight’s action continues a 61-year-long tradition of bipartisan action to strengthen our national security. I believe in peace through strength, and the provisions and funding in this bill will provide just that, especially as we continue to counter adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran. I look forward to quick Senate passage so President Biden can sign it into law.” “Rep. Franklin has been a leader on the House Armed Services Committee and has worked tirelessly to support our troops,” said Rep. Mike Rogers, Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee. “He has also been vital in the effort to hold the Biden administration accountable for the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. The NDAA is critical for strengthening our national security and giving our troops the funding and tools they need. I thank Rep. Franklin for his work on this important legislation.” The 2022 NDAA provides a total of $768 billion in funding for the U.S. Armed Forces. Included in the legislation is a 2.7 percent pay raise for service members, several provisions to counter the threat posed by China, funding to put the country back on track toward building a 355 ship Navy, provisions to increase readiness, unprecedented levels of funding in emerging technologies, modernization of the U.S. nuclear arsenal, and an end to investment in outdated weapons systems and programs. Additionally, Republican leadership successfully removed the troubling “Red Flag” provision that would infringe on the Second Amendm… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=319 Franklin Opposes Partisan, Political Attacks Disguised as Combating Bigotry 2021-12-15 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Scott Franklin F000472 franklin.house.gov franklin https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Rep. Franklin today voted against a partisan bill brought forth by the House majority to attack political opponents under the guise of combating Islamophobia. The bill H.R. 5665, would among other things, establish a Special Envoy to Counter Islamophobia at the Department of State and singles out a former president for his actions to ensure the safety and security of the United States. Many may not be aware that the State Department already has at least three officers specifically tasked with combating Islamophobia. They include the Special Representative for Muslim Communities, Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, and the Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Rights, and Labor. Furthermore, Democrat leadership on the House Rules Committee rejected Republican amendments to the bill, including Franklin’s amendment which would remove a partisan attack on former President Donald Trump. "Today, I voted against H.R. 5665. I condemn all forms of religious bigotry, but find it disappointing (though not surprising) that my Democrat colleagues are using a serious issue as a tool to engage in a partisan attack against former President Trump," said Rep. Franklin. "Their refusal to even discuss Republican amendments makes it clear that my Democrat colleagues are not serious about condemning religious bigotry across the globe." BACKGROUND Section 4 of H.R. 5665 includes a phrase which prevents funds made available by the act to be used “to promote or endorse a Muslim ban, such as the one instituted by former President Trump.” Traditionally, Congress has avoided specifically targeting politicians in the laws it drafts. The inclusion of former President Trump in the Act breaks this precedent. Rep. Franklin’s amendment would have struck this language from the bill. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=370 Franklin Urges Action to Allow Florida to Cut Taxes Without Penalty 2021-12-15 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Scott Franklin F000472 franklin.house.gov franklin https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Representative Scott Franklin (R–FL) joined House Ways and Means Ranking Member Rep. Kevin Brady (R–TX) and House Oversight and Government Reform Republican Leader James Comer (R–KY) in cosponsoring the State Tax Freedom Act, H.R. 2189, which opposes an unconstitutional provision of the American Rescue Plan Act that restricts states’ autonomy to cut taxes and manage their own finances. "States that have helped workers, families, and Main Street businesses through tax relief need greater flexibility, not shackles from the federal government," said Rep. Brady. "Democrats rammed through an unconstitutional provision with no committee hearings or input from the states, and this bill [The State Tax and Freedom Act] will protect states’ freedom to make their own fiscal decisions." “The American Rescue Plan is not only a massive $1.9 trillion spending spree that has the potential to destroy our economy, but also dictates how states like Florida who have properly managed their budgets during the pandemic can utilize resources. We should be prioritizing efforts to lower taxes and grow our economy rather than offering bailouts to states with high unemployment rates and mishandled finances,” Rep. Franklin said. “The American Rescue Plan Act is an assault on state sovereignty, while the State Tax Freedom Act will restore states ability to help their residents by promoting pro-growth policies.” The State Tax Freedom Act revokes the ban on states’ freedom to decrease taxes if they receive money from the American Rescue Plan Act’s Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund. Furthermore, the bill requires the Treasury to return the state any money withheld due to the state cutting taxes. Florida’s Attorney General, Ashley Moody, and twenty additional state Attorneys General have also raised concerns about the issue in a March 16 letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=CCFF9D26-7A9E-4E8F-A4D2-FB662E09F084 Webster & Graves Introduce Bill to Ban Vaccine Passports for Travel 2021-12-14 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC - Congressman Daniel Webster (R-FL) and Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO) introduced the SAFER Travel Act, H.R. 6257, to ban federal vaccine passports and quarantine requirements for travel. "President Biden, his administration and Democrats in Congress are out of control as they continue to push more mandates and restrictions on the American people,” said Rep. Webster, who serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “This is not about science or public health; this is fearmongering to maintain control and it has to stop. This bill protects the privacy and personal freedoms of American citizens to make healthcare decisions in consultation with their doctor – not because of demands by Washington politicians or bureaucrats. I will continue to work with my colleagues to defend the freedoms of the American people.” “You shouldn’t need a vaccine passport to get on a train, board a plane, or travel home for the holidays,” said Rep. Sam Graves, Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “This bill would put that terrible idea to bed once and for all. The vaccines have proven to be the safest and most effective tool we have against preventing COVID-19, but the federal government has no business mandating them for travel, work, or anything else. It’s a personal decision and it needs to stay that way.” H.R. 6257 would prohibit COVID-19 vaccine mandates or quarantine requirements on Americans for the purposes of travel. The science and data are clear, the vast majority of Americans have received a COVID-19 vaccine or have natural immunity from previous infection. Those vaccinated can contract and spread COVID-19 making mandates completely nonsensical. Earlier this month, the CDC and White House officials announced additional restrictions on Americans traveling domestically and abroad were possible, including additional testing and quarantines. Travel restrictions and mandates continue to be considered without any consideration or accountability for the emotio… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/area-agency-aging-pasco-pinellas-announces-new-initiative-aims-enhance-senior AREA AGENCY ON AGING OF PASCO – PINELLAS ANNOUNCES NEW INITIATIVE THAT AIMS TO ENHANCE SENIOR SAFETY IN PASCO AND PINELLAS COUNTIES 2021-12-13 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Oldsmar, Florida, Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas (AAAPP), a nonprofit focused on coordinating services to keep seniors healthy and independent, today announced a community program in collaboration with Ring to support senior safety in Pasco and Pinellas counties. Attached are pictures from the Press Conference announcing this initiative. During the press conference, Ring also presented AAAPP with an additional $20,000 donation to support the work of this worthwhile senior advocacy organization. For almost fifty years, AAAPP has advocated, educated, and empowered seniors living throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties and promoted their independence. Through our network of community partners, AAAPP provides resources to seniors, adults with disabilities and caregivers needed to maintain independence, promote healthy aging and live an optimal quality of life. With AAAPP's support, Ring, whose mission is to make neighborhoods safer, is donating 1,000 Ring Video Doorbells, including free installation and a Ring Protect subscription, to local residents 60 years and older throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties, as defined by AAAPP. AAAPP believes that the donation will help promote the safety and stability of senior residents in Pasco and Pinellas counties. "Now that so many of the seniors we serve live independently, it's increasingly important to ensure that they're safe at home," said Ann Marie Winter, Executive Director of AAAPP. "We're grateful to share our work and services to educate and empower seniors in Pasco and Pinellas counties. With this initiative, we hope to help 1,000 seniors feel safe in their homes. That is priceless." "We have an obligation to support vulnerable members of our community and help protect them," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. "This exciting collaboration harnesses the technology available in the private sector and the existing infrastructure of an effective senior advocacy organization to help seniors and support AAAPP's comprehensive initiatives. Seniors using this product… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-leads-fla-delegation-letter-biden-supply-chain-crisis Buchanan Leads Fla. Delegation Letter to Biden on Supply Chain Crisis 2021-12-13 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Amid ongoing delays at West Coast seaports, Congressman Vern Buchanan today led a letter signed by 17 bipartisan members of the Florida congressional delegation advocating for increased use of Florida’s 15 deepwater ports. “As the holidays approach, American businesses and families are feeling the effects firsthand of the continued supply chain bottlenecks,” said Buchanan. “Given Florida’s unique geographic location, our 15 deepwater seaports can handle increased freight traffic and meet holiday demands for consumers around the country, and they are ready to get to work.” In a letter to President Biden, the members offered to work with the Biden administration to utilize Florida’s ports as an alternative to the West Coast that continues to see unprecedented delays in offloading cargo, leading to severe supply chain congestion. Recent reports state that almost 90 cargo ships were left idling off the Port of Long Beach or the Port of Los Angeles while waiting to offload their containers. At one point, this logjam led to 17-day delays for ships, further delaying the arrival of shipments to consumers. In just the last two years, the State of Florida has invested nearly $1 billion in projects to increase seaport capacity and plans to spend an additional $200 million over the next several years to improve the state’s roadways to handle increased freight movements. Additionally, unlike other ports across the country, many of Florida’s ports have been functioning at full capacity 24 hours-a-day, seven days a week, for quite some time. “Today, our ports stand ready to help alleviate current systemic freight backlogs all over the country and are well-equipped to handle additional capacity,” said the members in the letter. “In short, Florida is open for business.” Florida Ports Council President and CEO Mike Rubin praised the lawmakers and said, “The leadership and bipartisan efforts of Florida’s Congressional Delegation, is further demonstration that Florida’s seaports are open for business, and are a key… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D4FEDA59-2270-473C-857B-1CC44B113895 Webster and Florida Delegation Tell Biden to Use FL Seaports 2021-12-13 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, and 17 bipartisan members of the Florida congressional delegation advocates for increased use of Florida’s 15 deepwater ports. “I am a longtime supporter and advocate for Florida’s Ports, which have capacity to help alleviate the current backlog of cargo activity,” said Rep. Webster. “Thanks to our location and network of highways and railways, the Sunshine State can manage increased freight traffic and help make sure consumer demand is met during this holiday season.” In a letter to President Biden, the members offered to work with the Biden administration to utilize Florida’s ports as an alternative to the West Coast that continues to see unprecedented delays in offloading cargo, leading to severe supply chain congestion. Recent reports state that almost 90 cargo ships were left idling off the Port of Long Beach or the Port of Los Angeles while waiting to offload their containers. At one point, this logjam led to 17-day delays for ships, further delaying the arrival of shipments to consumers. In just the last two years, the State of Florida has invested nearly $1 billion in projects to increase seaport capacity and plans to spend an additional $200 million over the next several years to improve the state’s roadways to handle increased freight movements. Additionally, unlike other ports across the country, many of Florida’s ports have been functioning at full capacity 24 hours-a-day, seven days a week, for quite some time. “Today, our ports stand ready to help alleviate current systemic freight backlogs all over the country and are well-equipped to handle additional capacity,” said the members in the letter. “In short, Florida is open for business.” Florida Ports Council President and CEO Mike Rubin praised the lawmakers and said, “The leadership and bipartisan efforts of Florida’s Congressional Delegation, is further demonstration that Florida’s seaports are open for business, and are a key solution in helping to alleviate the nation’s supply… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=504 Reps. Donalds and Crow Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Empower Fintechs 2021-12-10 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Byron Donalds D000032 donalds.house.gov donalds https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper WASHINGTON—Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) and Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) announced the introduction of the Expanding Access to Affordable Credit for Small Businesses Act. This bill is the fourth bipartisan piece of legislation sponsored by Rep. Donalds. This bipartisan legislation optimizes the full capability of the free market by expanding the criteria of the Small Business Administration’s 7(a) loan program to allow fintech companies the opportunity to provide loans to America’s small businesses. “Fintech lending is the future of small business lending, and this legislation modernizes how small businesses access capital. Empowering and equipping the fintech sector of the economy to offer private loans creates more opportunities for American small enterprises to achieve prosperity,” said Rep. Donalds. “This is commonsense, bipartisan legislation that deploys a willing and ready private sector to meet the needs of our nation’s small businesses in a sustainable way and creates a pathway for entrepreneurs to pursue their American Dream.” “Small businesses are the backbone of the U.S. economy. A big part of our work on the Small Business Committee is ensuring that our small business owners have the resources they need to succeed,” said Rep. Crow. “It’s my pleasure to work on a bipartisan basis with Congressman Donalds to expand the 7(a) small business loan program to ensure funding for our new and growing small businesses.” The bill text can be read in its entirety here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F5C97A39-911F-4CDC-911F-B949D6F0F1C5 Webster and Bipartisan Florida, Texas Members Urge USDA to Reverse Decision that Harms American Grapefruit Growers 2021-12-10 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, joined U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Rick Scott (R-FL) and members of the Florida and Texas Congressional Delegations to urge the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Tom Vilsack to reverse the Department’s unjustified decision to administratively suspend juice content standards for imported grapefruits, and to request information regarding the circumstances of the suspension, which was made without a proper rulemaking process, and for which Congress was not notified. Following the suspension of grapefruit juice content standards, Texas A&M University found in November 2021, that more than 85 percent of grapefruits imported from Mexico in September and October would have “failed quality standards and been rejected,” if not for the suspension of juice content standards by Secretary Vilsack. “The suspension of grapefruit juice standards for imported grapefruits poses a serious threat to American growers and undermines their ability to compete in the American market at a pivotal time. In recent months and years, our grapefruit growers have been severely impacted by natural disasters and citrus diseases,” the members wrote. “Now, this suspension allows low quality grapefruit products to flood our market, and forces our growers to compete against low-cost, subsidized imports. This regulatory patch is discriminatory in nature, as substandard grapefruit products can now be imported, meanwhile, American-grown grapefruits must still meet juice content standards. Additionally, as these imported grapefruits are of poor quality due to their low juice content, American consumers may become averse to purchasing grapefruits, as the substandard imported products could adversely impact the entire market due to unmet consumer expectations.” “The core mission of USDA is to promote and support American agricultural producers, not to disadvantage them by creating unfair advantages for foreign growers. As such, we urge you to… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-speaks-house-floor-about-faces-fentanyl Bilirakis Speaks on the House Floor about the Faces of Fentanyl 2021-12-09 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC: Saddened by the overdose epidemic that is worsening throughout the nation, Congressman Bilirakis took to the House Floor late last night to spur much needed Congressional action as deaths involving synthetic opioids continue to skyrocket. "In Pasco County, 193 people have died from overdose since January. The vast majority of these cases involved fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances. I have also received hundreds of heartbreaking stories from constituents whose families have been devastated by addiction. One constituent, MaryAnne, said this: "I lost my adult son in June of 2021 to a fentanyl overdose. The system failed me in every single way. With open borders, enough fentanyl came pouring into our country's southern border to kill 70% of our population. My son is sadly one of those statistics." Parents like MaryAnne are the faces of the fentanyl crisis. The tragedies these families have experienced are the reason why we must fight back.The first step is to secure our border," said Congressman Bilirakis. "We must also hold China accountable for its continued role in this crisis." The U.S. Justice Department testified in September that Mexican criminal drug networks are mass-producing illicit fentanyl and fentanyl-laced fake pills, using chemicals sourced largely from China, and are distributing these pills through U.S. criminal networks. These fake pills are designed to appear nearly identical to legitimate prescriptions such as OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin, Adderall, Xanax and other medicines. Criminal drug networks are selling these pills through social media, e-commerce, the dark web, and existing distribution networks. As a result, these deadly fake pills are widely available. "If we've learned anything from the pandemic it's that we should be very skeptical of China," noted Bilirakis. "The Trump Administration was very tough on China and on border security. But since, we've seen a relaxing of these policies. As a result, we're seeing a surge of trafficking and subsequent overdoses in c… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bill-strengthen-us-hellenic-relations-passes-part-ndaa-poised-become-law Bill to Strengthen US-Hellenic Relations Passes as Part of the NDAA, Poised to Become Law 2021-12-09 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC: As members of the Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance (CHIA), Representatives Gus Bilirakis, Ted Deutch, and Nicole Malliotakis celebrate the inclusion of the US-Greece Defense and Interparliamentary Partnership Act in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bill, which was co-authored by CHIA Co-Chairs Rep. Bilirakis and Deutch, will strengthen the defense partnership between the United States and Greece, by supporting Greek military modernization and multilateral security efforts between Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States. The NDAA is poised for swift passage in the Senate, sending it to the President to be signed into law. "Greece has consistently proven itself to be a reliable ally in the Eastern Mediterranean. This critical legislation bolsters Greece's efforts to modernize its armed forces, while strengthening our strategic partnership among our Hellenic partners. It also enables continued security cooperation to help facilitate enduring stability throughout the region," Congressman Bilirakis remarked. "The inclusion of this legislation in the NDAA is a natural extension of the growing United States strategic security partnership with Greece and other eastern Mediterranean allies," Rep. Deutch said. "We are building on this mutually beneficial defense relationship by bolstering Greece's military capabilities and fostering interparliamentary engagement between the United States, Greece, Cyprus, and Israel." "I'm proud to join Representatives Bilirakis and Deutch in supporting legislation that strengthens the U.S.-Greek military partnership, supports the modernization of Greece's military along with a multilateral security cooperation between Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States," said Congresswoman Malliotakis. "This legislation is critical to ensuring stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and I'm pleased to see it pass the House in a bipartisan fashion." Key provisions of the legislation include: Support for Greek Military Modernization: Authorizes E… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/four-more-bilirakis-bills-pass-house-await-final-action-senate Four More Bilirakis Bills Pass the House, Await Final Action in the Senate 2021-12-09 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC: Continuing his strong record of legislative achievement, four more bills co-authored by Congressman Gus Bilirakis have passed out of the U.S. House of Representatives. Since the beginning of the year, three Bilirakis-authored bills have been signed into law, and nine more have passed out of the House Chamber (including these four). A summary of the newest Bilirakis bills to pass the House are included below. H.R. 3894– CARING for Social Determinants Act of 2021 will require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide guidance to states to address social determinants of health under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). There is growing recognition in the field of public health that reducing long-standing disparities in health outcomes is dependent on systemically addressing the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence overall health and wellness. Examples of social determinants of health include: socioeconomic status, education, physical environment, employment, social support networks and access to healthcare. The Bilirakis-Blunt Rochester bill will provide ongoing guidance to State Medicaid programs every three years regarding how to implement research-proven strategies to optimize social determinants of health under existing Medicaid authority or waivers, especially for pediatric populations. This legislation builds upon the success that some state Medicaid programs have already seen since testing innovative delivery and payment models designed to improve health outcomes while reducing costs. "This is commonsense, bipartisan legislation that employs the basic principles of hierarchical needs. We have to look at the big picture. It is impossible to improve the population health of communities without addressing the factors that contribute to poor health outcomes. This is especially true when examining programs for children. For example, efforts to combat childhood obesity in at-risk populations, which lead to excessive healthcare expendi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/breaking-cortez-post-office-announces-five-year-lease-extension BREAKING: Cortez Post Office Announces Five-Year Lease Extension 2021-12-09 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper BRADENTON, Fla. – Congressman Vern Buchanan today announced that the Cortez post office signed a lease extension through July 31, 2026 and will remain open in its current location. “I am pleased to see the Cortez post office reach a long-term solution and remain open for my constituents in the area,” said Buchanan. “The Postal Service has been incredibly responsive to my concerns about the undue burden closing this facility would place on residents, and I’m glad we were finally able to find a more permanent solution. I appreciate the Postal Service for following through on their commitment to keeping the Cortez post office open going forward.” Earlier this year, Buchanan wrote to the Postal Service to express his concern about the strain closing the Cortez post office would place on residents. Those who are serviced by the Cortez post office may have to travel more than 10 miles round trip in heavy seasonal traffic to receive their mail had the facility closed. There is no carrier delivery in the area served by this post office. Buchanan has been in close contact with the head of the Suncoast postal district, Stephen Hardin, to urge the postal service to maintain a post office in Cortez. Earlier this year, an eviction notice was filed against the postal service. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-kat-cammack-eddie-bernice-johnson-introduce-bipartisan-taiwan Reps. Kat Cammack, Eddie Bernice Johnson Introduce Bipartisan Taiwan Preclearance Act 2021-12-09 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Kat Cammack C001039 cammack.house.gov cammack https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) and Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX-30) introduced the Taiwan Preclearance Act. The bill expresses the importance of the United States' relationship with Taiwan and Taiwan's importance in the Indo-Pacific region. The bill also requires a report on establishing a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) preclearance facility at the Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). The Taipei Taoyuan International Airport offers dozens of flights a week to and from the United States, with connections throughout Asia. The establishment of a preclearance facility will create a seamless experience for U.S.-bound passengers and further encourage growth in travel between Taiwan and the U.S. "I am excited to introduce this important measure in the House to ensure the United States' support of an airport preclearance facility at the Taipei International Airport in Taiwan," said Rep. Cammack. "Taiwan is one of our most important allies and an essential economic partner with shared values and security priorities. This new facility will ensure easier, safer travel—something that is long overdue. I'm grateful to Rep. Johnson for her partnership in this effort." "Throughout my career, I have been a strong supporter of the Taiwanese people and the right to travel freely and safely between the United States and Taiwan," added Rep. Johnson. "At a time when the United States and Taiwan are more connected than ever before, it is critical that we signal Taiwan’s importance as a geostrategic security partner. That is why I am proud to work with Rep. Cammack to increase security and convenience in the travel process through the establishment of a preclearance facility in Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)." "Taiwan is a longstanding ally and trusted Indo-Pacific partner," said Rep. Balderson (R-OH-12). "This first step in establishing a preclearance facility at the Taipei Taoyuan International Airport further strengthens the enduring relationship between our two countries… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-inserta-la-letra-de-patria-y-vida-en-el-diario-de-sesiones Díaz-Balart inserta la letra de “Patria y Vida” en el Diario de Sesiones del Congreso 2021-12-09 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.– Hoy el Congresista Mario Díaz-Balart insertó la letra de Patria y Vida en el Diario de Sesiones del Congreso. Patria y Vida es más que una canción. Es un himno, un rayo de esperanza para el pueblo cubano. Al incluir esta letra en el Diario de Sesiones del Congreso, el congresista Díaz-Balart logra que este Himno de libertad sea inmortalizado y preservado para las generaciones futuras. “Señora Presidenta, me levanto hoy en honor al Himno de libertad, “Patria y Vida” que representa a todos los cubanos que anhelan la libertad de su patria. La canción “Patria y Vida” es una colaboración entre músicos cubanos en el exilio y en la isla que se han unido en oposición a la dictadura y que juntos reclaman la libertad de expresión y el respeto a los derechos humanos. Los autores son Yotuel Romero, Beatriz Luengo, Maykel Osorbo, Eliecer Márquez Duany “El Funky”, Descemer Bueno, Alexander Delgado y Randy Malcom. El 18 de noviembre de 2021, “Patria y Vida” recibió dos premios Grammy, Canción del año y Mejor Canción Urbana en la 22ª Entrega Anual de los Premios Grammy Latinos. Hoy, uno de los autores de “Patria y Vida”, Maykel Castillo Pérez (comúnmente conocido como Maykel Osorbo), y Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara del Movimiento San Isidro que aparece en el video musical, permanecen en cárceles de máxima seguridad en Cuba por simplemente colaborar en la creación de Patria y Vida y manifestarse en contra de la opresión. Otro autor, Eliecer Márquez Duany "El Funky", fue exiliado después de estar detenido en arresto domiciliario. Estos valientes artistas sufren simplemente por exigir las libertades fundamentales que son derechos inherentes a toda persona. Ellos, y tantos otros en Cuba, lo han arriesgado todo por la libertad. Señora Presidenta, el pueblo cubano será libre. Hacia ese fin, me honra resaltar la importancia de una canción que se ha convertido en el Himno de todos los cubanos que reclaman la libertad para Cuba. Insto a mis colegas a que se unan a mí para apoyar esta noble causa, exigiendo que todos l… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-submits-lyrics-song-patria-y-vida-congressional-record Diaz-Balart Submits Lyrics of Song "Patria y Vida" to the Congressional Record 2021-12-09 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart submitted the lyrics of Patria y Vida to the Congressional Record. Patria y Vida is more than a song. It is an anthem, a beacon of hope for the Cuban people. By adding these lyrics to the Congressional Record, Congressman Diaz-Balart ensures that this anthem of freedom is immortalized and preserved for generations to come. Read the complete Congressional Record here. “Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the anthem of freedom, “Patria y Vida” (Homeland and Life), which became a mantra for thousands of Cubans who took to the streets to protest the brutal and murderous Cuban dictatorship. The song is a collaboration between Cuban musicians in exile and on the island who have come together in opposition to the regime, and who together are demanding freedom of expression and respect for human rights. The co-authors are Yotuel Romero, Beatriz Luengo, Maykel Osorbo, Eliecer Marquez Duany “El Funky”, Descemer Bueno, Alexander Delgado and Randy Malcom. On November 18, 2021, “Patria y Vida” received two Grammy awards, Song of the Year and Best Urban Song, at the 22nd Annual Latin Grammy Awards. Today, one of the co-authors of “Patria y Vida,” Maykel Castillo Pérez (commonly known as Maykel Osorbo), and Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara of the San Isidro Movement who appears in the music video, remain incarcerated in maximum security prisons in Cuba for simply participating in this song and speaking out against oppression. Another co-author, Eliecer Marquez Duany “El Funky,” was sent into exile after being held on house arrest. These courageous artists suffer simply for voicing the fundamental freedoms that are the inherent rights of every person. They, and so many others in Cuba, have risked everything for freedom. Madam Speaker, the Cuban people will be free. Toward that goal, I am honored to highlight the importance of a song that has become an anthem for a movement, and for so many Cubans who are demanding freedom on the island. I ask my colleagues to join me in … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/three-bilirakis-bills-pass-part-ndaa-poised-become-law Three Bilirakis Bills Pass as Part of the NDAA, Poised to Become Law 2021-12-08 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC: Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) proudly cast a vote in favor of this year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which is now headed back to the Senate and then to the President to become law. The package robustly funds our national security, provides pay raises for troops, takes action to counter the growing threats posed by Russia, China, and Iran, enhances the allowable exemptions from vaccine mandates in the military (while allowing an honorable discharge for those who elect not to take the vaccine), and strengthens cybersecurity protections for our nation's critical infrastructure. The proposal also seeks accountability for President Biden's botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, including requiring a quarterly report to Congress of the Americans, allies, and assets left behind. It prohibits the Administration from providing payments or other resources to the Taliban regime. The bill also provides enhanced resources and development for military healthcare. In addition to these favorable measures, the Congressman worked hard and successfully ensured that the objectionable red flag provisions and military draft requirement for women, were stripped from the final package. Three bills the Congressman co-authored are also included as part of the final NDAA. The first two are provisions he co-authored with Congressman Raul Ruiz related to burn pits. The first measure, the Department of Defense (DoD) Burn Pits Health Provider Training Act, implements mandatory training for all DoD medical providers on the potential health effects of burn pits. This legislative change will help ensure the early identification and treatment of health issues caused by burn pit exposure. The second provision, the Reducing Exposure to Burn Pits Act, requires the DOD to provide Congress with an estimate of funding currently dedicated for incinerators and waste-to-energy disposal alternatives to burn pits. This is an important first step in stopping the use of burn pits. "We still have a long way to go as it relat… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-proposal-included-house-passed-annual-defense-bill Buchanan Proposal Included in House-Passed Annual Defense Bill 2021-12-08 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Congressman Vern Buchanan announced today that a series of sweeping new military training reforms he has been fighting for were included in the final version of the House-passed FY22 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation, which Buchanan introduced as a standalone bill (H.R. 5268) and then offered as an amendment to the NDAA in September, requires the Pentagon to implement more realistic training practices, develop stricter enforcement standards and ensure better oversight to prevent future military training accidents and deaths. The language closely mirrors a provision included in the final version of the NDAA which passed the U.S. House last night by a vote of 363-70. Buchanan has been a leading advocate in Congress for reforming our current training procedures and improving emergency response capabilities after the tragic death of Army Specialist Nicholas Panipinto of Bradenton. Panipinto died in a vehicle training accident in South Korea in 2019. “Improving tactical vehicle safety and military training capabilities will reduce future accidents and help save lives,” said Buchanan. “After the heartbreaking death of my constituent, Nicholas Panipinto, preventing these accidents has become one of my top priorities. I am pleased to see the House take action on this bipartisan legislation and look forward to the president signing it into law.” In July, a report released from the federal government’s top watchdog, which investigated non-combat tactical vehicle accidents, found that a lack of driver training and failures to properly oversee and implement key safety procedures were largely to blame for several fatal training accidents. Following this report, Buchanan called on the Pentagon to immediately adopt these recommendations. “The serious deficiencies and failures in tactical vehicle training required immediate action,” said Buchanan. “The loss of a single American soldier is tragic and the continued loss of service members in training accidents is completely unacceptable.”… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-cammack-issues-statements-house-amendment-s-1605-house-amendment Congresswoman Cammack Issues Statements On House Amendment To S. 1605 & House Amendment To S. 610 2021-12-08 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Kat Cammack C001039 cammack.house.gov cammack https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – This morning, Congresswoman Cammack issued the following statement on last night's votes on the House Amendment to S. 1605—the FY22 NDAA—and the House Amendment to S. 610—Sequestration, PAYGO, and the Debt Limit Package. On The FY22 NDAA: "I want to thank the lead Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Mike Rogers, for his leadership on this piece of legislation. I join dozens of my colleagues in celebrating our collective, constructive work to get it across the finish line," said Rep. Kat Cammack. "Together we kept our promises and removed dangerous red flag laws and woke policies that would establish unnecessary programs at the Department of Defense. This bill counters China, holds the administration accountable on Afghanistan, and ensures we fund our military and Florida National Guard. I'm proud to support it." "Rep. Cammack has been an ally in Congress for our troops. The NDAA is critical for our nation’s security, which is why it continues to have bipartisan and bicameral support," said Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL), Ranking Member of House Armed Services Committee. "The FY22 NDAA strengthens our national security and provides servicemembers with the funding and tools they need. I thank Rep. Cammack for her continued support for our servicemembers." On The House Amendment To S. 610: "No one should be surprised that congressional Democrats have done it again: they've attached a debt limit increase to possible cuts to Medicare. They know that there is broad support on both sides of the aisle for mitigating large portions of these cuts, but Democrats included partisan provisions regarding the Statutory PAYGO and debt limit in their text. Republicans have offered alternatives that protect seniors and other populations to avoid damage to Medicare, but the Democrats wouldn't go for it, instead deciding to play political games. We cannot vote for a debt limit increase and urge our colleagues to the right thing to ensure our seniors aren't affected by this partisan nonsense.… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=500 Rep. Donalds Statement on Communist Comptroller Nominee Saule Omarova Withdrawing Her Nomination 2021-12-08 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Byron Donalds D000032 donalds.house.gov donalds https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper WASHINGTON - Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) issued the following statement regarding Saule Omarova withdrawing her nomination for the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). “Yesterday’s announcement that Saule Omarova withdrew her nomination for the OCC was a significant win for America—we must always reject Communism when it knocks at our doorstep. As a proud Capitalist and American, it deeply concerns me that the Biden administration found Omarova the appropriate nominee for such a role. I find it just as disturbing that a majority of the Democrats in the Senate stood ready to confirm her absurd nomination. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=309 Franklin Leads Letter Demanding Answers on Justice Department Efforts to Combat COVID-19 Relief Fraud 2021-12-07 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Scott Franklin F000472 franklin.house.gov franklin https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, and his colleagues sent a letter on Monday to Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco requesting information on the Justice Department’s efforts to investigate and prosecute instances of COVID-19 relief fraud. “The theft of up to $280 billion in unemployment benefits due to fraudulent activity by foreign adversaries and criminals is a major scandal and a breach of our national security,” said Rep. Franklin. “To put this number in perspective, the amount of pandemic relief money lost to fraud over the past 18 months is the same as we spent on the Apollo program over 13 years to put men on the moon. Where possible, the perpetrators of these crimes should be tracked down and prosecuted, and those who negligently allowed this fraud, waste, and abuse to happen must be held accountable for betraying American taxpayers’ trust. Our government simply must instill stronger oversight into distribution of tax dollars. This is unacceptable and the American people deserve better.” The U.S. government has spent approximately $700 billion on unemployment benefits as part of its pandemic relief efforts. According to reports, approximately 40 percent ($280 billion) has been lost to fraud. Of the $280 billion, reports indicate that $175 billion was lost to transnational actors with $140 billion of that amount going to state-sponsored entities. At a recent staff briefing, the Department of Justice informed the House Committee on Oversight and Reform that it has charged nearly $1 billion in intended loss, and hundreds of millions in actual loss, of COVID-19 relief to fraud. Based on estimates, this would mean there are still hundreds of billions in unidentified loss. Additionally, the Department refused to share how many active cases involve transnational or state-sponsored organizations. Congress has a Constitutional responsibility to provide oversight of the government, including government spending. As the House of Representatives’ prin… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=24CE7639-9415-4F74-B291-23D375737188 Webster Slams Procedural Hijinks in Medicare Bill 2021-12-07 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, released the following statement slamming the Democrats’ use of procedural hijinks in the House Amendment to S. 610. “I’m appalled that Democrats in Congress are holding seniors and their healthcare providers hostage as leverage to raise the nation’s debt limit and borrow more money for their spending spree. The House finally took up legislation that ensures Medicare benefits are not reduced in 2022. But, in further proof of how broken Washington is, Democrats added two other issues that have nothing to do with Medicare or our seniors! “Included in this bill is language that suspends the requirement for Democrats to identify funding to actually pay for their partisan spending bills. Further, the bill creates an unrelated, unprecedented procedural process to waive the Senate filibuster to increase the debt ceiling. I cannot vote for this because it suspends fiscal responsibility and allows the debt limit to be raised without any details or spending reform. The reckless spending of this Congress and Administration are driving up inflation – making everything in our lives more costly. The only reason these unrelated measures are combined is because they do not have the votes to borrow and spend more money without holding Medicare hostage as leverage. “I am committed to protecting the Medicare benefits that seniors in my district have earned and have introduced H.R. 6144 with my colleagues to do so. I have argued to my Republican and Democrat colleagues that the process for producing policy in Congress is deeply flawed and it has gotten exponentially worse in recent years. As a result, Congress is not passing good public policy. I am frustrated and I’m sure the American people are too. I will continue to advocate for a Member-driven process that tackles key issues early; allows real, thoughtful debate on each other’s policy ideas; ends the practice of waiting until the end of the year to tackle big issues; and stops combining several major policies i… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D438EFAF-6343-4233-AEF8-4B4A6C00BB17 Webster Statement on Defense Bill Vote 2021-12-07 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R – Clermont, released the following statement on his vote to pass the House Amendment to S. 1605, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 or FY22 NDAA. “By rejecting President Biden’s cuts to readiness and responsibly investing in our warfighters, training, maintenance, and critical capabilities this bill greatly improves our national defense. Further, it recognizes the threats posed by China and Iran and holds the Administration accountable for their disastrous and embarrassing withdrawal from Afghanistan. “I applaud Republican negotiators for removing poison pills from this legislation, including sections that could result in women being drafted and service members being unjustly deprived of their Second Amendment rights. Our negotiators also removed provisions that would create an Office of Extremism at the Department of Defense and establish policies or require troops to take training courses about so-called extremism. "The bill also prohibits anything other than an Honorable Discharge for servicemembers who decline a COVID-19 vaccination and requires uniform procedures for vaccine exemptions, including recognizing natural immunity. This policy will retroactively apply to the date of the DoD COVID-19 vaccine order and be in place for at least 2 years.” The FY22 NDAA: Authorizes 2.7% pay increase for servicemembers and extends military recruitment and retention bonuses and special pay. Invests in service-member family housing. Focuses investment on new and emerging weapon systems capable of penetrating denied operating environments such as China. Puts the Navy back on track to building a 355 ship Navy. Includes unprecedented levels of investment in emerging technologies, including AI, quantum computing, hypersonic, and autonomous systems. Prevents Russian and Chinese officials from accessing U.S. missile defense sites. Prevents President Biden’s cuts to the military health program. Fully funds the modernization of our nuclear… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/new-senior-safety-focused-initiative-pasco-and-pinellas-counties New Senior Safety-Focused Initiative for Pasco and Pinellas Counties 2021-12-06 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Oldsmar, FL,– The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas (AAAPP) will hold a press conference to announce a new initiative that aims to enhance senior safety in Pasco and Pinellas counties with Congressman Gus Bilirakis and a Ring representative in attendance. With AAAPP's support, Ring, whose mission is to make neighborhoods safer, is donating 1,000 Ring Video Doorbells, including free installation and a Ring Protect subscription, to local residents 60 years and older in select cities throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties. The agency is hopeful that the donations will help promote the safety and stability of senior residents in Pasco and Pinellas counties. WHAT: Press conference to announce Ring donation and discuss AAAPP's work to empower seniors living throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties and promote their independence. WHEN: Saturday, December 11 at 11:00 a.m. WHO: Congressman Gus Bilirakis, District 12 Ann Marie Winter, Executive Director of Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas Jaime Hjort, Ring Representative WHERE: TLC Adult Day Care and Recreation Center 3970 Tampa Rd. Unit J Oldsmar, FL 34677 About the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=499 Rep. Donalds' Statement Calling For a Complete Boycott of the 2022 Chinese Winter Olympic Games 2021-12-06 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Byron Donalds D000032 donalds.house.gov donalds https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper WASHINGTON –– Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) issued the following statement calling for a complete boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in China. "As America finds itself at the forefront of several self-imposed domestic hurdles, the world is also taking advantage of our weakness on the international stage. Just four months ago, our nation and the rest of the world witnessed the derelict withdrawal from Afghanistan that left 13 of our service members dead and our integrity on the world stage in chaos. While many Americans continue to focus on the mounting issues at home, be it raising gas prices, the border crisis, skyrocketing inflation, and the resurgence of COVID-related mandates, our adversaries have been on the move––especially the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). "As we rapidly approach the 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, I think it was the correct call by the president to hold a diplomatic boycott of the games in response to China's human rights abuses and crimes against humanity. While this boycott is the right message to the CCP and the world, it does not go far enough. The Biden-Harris administration must stand even firmer and call for a complete boycott of the games and prohibit all American participation from the Olympic games. "As we witness increased tensions in Taiwan, Ukraine, and Iran, it is abundantly clear our foes are testing Biden at every turn and capitalizing on his administration's weakness. It is time Biden and his counterparts intensify their message to the world; we will not tolerate China's brutal and inhumane actions against the Uyghurs. "We must entirely boycott the 2022 Winter Games." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-leads-letter-over-100-gop-colleagues-opposing-new-cms-vaccine Buchanan Leads Letter with Over 100 GOP Colleagues Opposing New CMS Vaccine Mandate 2021-12-05 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Congressmen Vern Buchanan and Larry Bucshon, M.D. (R-IN) today led a letter signed by over 100 of their colleagues opposing the Biden administration’s vaccine mandate for Medicare and Medicaid service providers. In a letter to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, the members urged the administration to abandon the new federal mandate. CMS’s vaccine mandate, issued in November, requires health care workers whose employers participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs be fully vaccinated by January 4. There are approximately 76,000 providers that employ over 17 million health care workers that would be required to comply with the mandate. Many of America’s physicians also operate as small businesses and would be required to comply with these new rules and regulations, the same as large hospitals. Buchanan noted that this could have a disastrous effect on these small businesses and access to care, especially in rural areas where doctors’ offices can be few and far between. Specifically, if small doctors’ offices fail to comply with the mandate, offices may be required to lay off their unvaccinated employees, cover crippling fines from CMS for keeping those employees on the payroll or close their doors completely so as not to deal with the regulatory burden of this mandate. Amid a projected national physician shortage of more than 100,000 by 2034, the members highlight how a federal vaccine mandate will only make matters worse. “Ensuring continuity of quality care should be the primary goal for CMS, especially during this period of stress and uncertainty for patients and providers,” said Buchanan. “This mandate could eviscerate the size and strength of our health care system and lead to unintended consequences for America’s seniors, many of whom rely on Medicare as their only option for health care coverage.” There are 54 million Medicare-aged Americans, many of whom will directly feel the pressure of this mandate due to the inevitable loss of qua… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=498 Rep. Donalds Statement Regarding the Abysmal Jobs Report and American Economy 2021-12-03 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Byron Donalds D000032 donalds.house.gov donalds https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper WASHINGTON - Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) issued the following statement on the abysmal November jobs report and the overall failing American economy. “Today’s jobs report that missed Wall Street’s expectations by more than 360,000 jobs is another glaring example of the failed policies coming from President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and the Democrats that control the House and Senate. While Democrats continue to look for the root causes of the disastrous economy and continue to blame the ongoing COVID pandemic, all roads lead back to the economic illiteracy of Democrats in power. “American families just faced the most expensive Thanksgiving on record, and now, three weeks away from Christmas, the American people continue to struggle due to Biden’s ineptitude. Gas prices are up nearly 60%, fuel for heating homes has more than doubled, and shelves are running bare due to the ongoing supply chain crisis. “While families in Florida’s 19th Congressional District and across the nation face unimaginable economic difficulties, Democrats are shrugging off these mounting issues and proceeding with their radical agenda. Amid rising gas prices, the Secretary of Energy laughed, and Secretary Buttigieg told Americans to buy an electric vehicle to avoid the rise in prices. Coupled with their offensive and flat-out tone-deaf messaging, Democrats on Capitol Hill continue jamming through Biden’s multi-trill-dollar socialist tax and spending plan. “The state of the American economy is in peril at the hands of the Democrats, who have one goal in mind to systematically transform America and hand over our exceptionalism to the rest of the world. We cannot afford to allow them to succeed in this mission.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-brings-attention-supply-chain-woes Bilirakis Brings Attention to Supply Chain Woes 2021-12-02 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC: Every American has noticed empty shelves and experienced delivery delays for many products, including: new vehicles, toilet paper, toys, and smartphones. Supermarkets, restaurants, and school cafeterias also report missing shipments. Experts are also predicting that the supply chain crisis will lead to a less than merry Christmas for many American children as toys are expected to be in short supply this season, according to the Toy Association. Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis took to the House Floor to discuss the urgent need to prioritize and address our nation's current supply chain problems which have led to these costly and inconvenient disruptions. "I refuse to stand by and watch as America's ability to ensure the safe and efficient movement of goods, people, and services throughout our transportation network continues to be diluted," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. "Our priority focus right now should be strengthening our nation's economy and increasing our global competitiveness. The policies of this President and Democrat party leaders in Congress are exacerbating or simply ignoring the underlying supply chain crisis. These policies include the mishandling of the COVID response in ways that are prolonging unemployment and worker shortages across the economy and pushing for a multi-trillion-dollar spending spree that is driving up prices of everything from gas to groceries. These efforts only serve to weaken American competitiveness and shrink our economy." The supply chain problem is a complex one that boils down to the fact that America relies heavily on the import of goods. About 90% of all goods are shipped across an ocean. China has been implementing partial shutdowns due to new COVID cases and has forced power cutbacks amid an energy shortage. In fact, factories across Asia are shipping fewer goods. To make matters worse, there are not enough workers to process, move, sell, and deliver all the goods coming into U.S. ports across the country fast enough. A national shortage … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-honor-our Diaz-Balart, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Honor our Nation's Veterans and Fallen Heroes 2021-12-02 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, Representatives Mario Diaz-Balart, Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28), Kay Granger (R-TX-12), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-20), and John Rutherford (R-FL-4) introduced the 13 Folds of Honor Act, a bill that provides a script to be read during official or burial flag-folding ceremonies. A flag-folding presentation honors the service and sacrifice of veterans or deceased servicemembers. The ceremonial folding and presentation of the flag is a moving tribute of lasting importance to a veteran's family. This script emphasizes the meaning of each of the 13 folds that symbolize our nation's unity and immeasurable respect for veterans and their families. “This legislation honors the 13 servicemembers who courageously gave their last full measure of devotion and sacrifice to our country," said Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart. "It also serves as a sobering reminder that for every fallen servicemember, there is a story of a Gold Star Family who stands boldly in their legacy. While there are no words to ease their loss, we hope the 13 Folds of Honor script symbolizes our immense gratitude, respect, and appreciation for their service to our nation. A special thank you to Commander Dr. J.B. Holmes of the Golden Gate VFW Post 7721 for his dedicated service to the veteran community and for bringing this important tribute to light.” This legislation commemorates our 13 fallen servicemembers including my own constituent, Lance Corporal David Lee Espinoza. Mr. Espinoza, a Laredo native Marine, will always be remembered," said Congressman Cuellar. "He embodied the values of America: grit, dedication, service, and valor. May the language shared with the official flag folding ceremony continue to reflect the symbol of respect, honor and freedom that our brave servicemembers and their families do every day.” “Our brave service members devote their lives to defending the flag and the sacred institution she represents," said Congresswoman Granger. "The 13 Folds of Honor is a fitting tribute to our fallen heroes and commemorates a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-lawson-introduce-keep-children-and-families-safe-lead-hazards-act Rutherford, Lawson Introduce the Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act 2021-12-02 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL John H. Rutherford R000609 rutherford.house.gov rutherford https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C – Today, U.S. Representatives John Rutherford (FL-04) and Al Lawson (FL-05) introduced the Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act. This legislation requires that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) assess annually the risks of lead-based hazards on housing properties receiving federal rental assistance. It also directs HUD to develop an action plan that outlines necessary changes for properties at risk for lead exposure hazards. "It is inexcusable that some living in public housing have experienced dangerous levels of lead exposure, threatening their health and safety," said Rutherford. "I am proud to join a bipartisan coalition working to hold HUD accountable for any lead-based hazards in their facilities. Thank you to Rep. Lawson for leading this important effort." "Every family deserves to live in a home that is free of danger, yet far too many households are detrimentally impacted by lead poisoning," said Lawson. "Our residents should not have to worry about the risk of lead exposure and the harmful impact this hazardous toxin can cause. The Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act will raise the standard of federally-assisted housing by enforcing accountability and improving the living conditions for our most vulnerable citizens. I am pleased to work with Rep. Rutherford on this critical legislation to protect the safety and health of North Florida's children and families." Many properties in Florida and nationwide were built before the 1978 ban on lead paint in residential buildings. According to the CDC, 3.6 million American families are at risk of lead-based paint contamination in their homes, including 340,000 children living in Section 8 housing. The Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act improves conditions and protects the health and well-being of millions of Americans living in Section 8 properties. The risk assessment portion of this legislation will identify properties with the greatest risk of exposing children u… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-takes-stand-life Bilirakis Takes A Stand for Life 2021-12-01 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC: Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis spoke on the House Floor about the need to defend life. His speech was delivered on the same day the United States Supreme Court heard opening arguments in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. This Supreme Court case, which reflects the most significant legal challenge on the issue of abortion since Roe vs. Wade, has the ability to set new precedent with regard to individual states' abilities to protect unborn children. It will also better establish the rights states have to legislate on the matter of abortion. In the years following Roe vs. Wade, more than 60 million unborn children have lost their lives to abortion. During that time, medical advances have also made remarkable strides and offer new insight into the stages of human development. "As this landmark case progresses, I am mindful that modern science confirms that every unborn child is a human life," said Congressman Bilirakis. "As early as 5 weeks, unborn babies have a heartbeat, and the brain and spinal cord are developing. By week 10, babies have arms and legs, fingers, and toes. They can kick and jump if startled. At week 15, babies have fully developed hearts that pump 26 quarts of blood per day. They can taste and make facial expressions. We know at this stage, they yawn, hiccup, swallow, and suck their thumbs. During this time period, painful procedures trigger a hormonal stress response. And, due to advances in technology, an unborn child is now viable outside the womb at 22 weeks or earlier. Federal abortion laws are stuck in the past. Now that we have the benefit of scientific knowledge on the stages of human development, our laws must reflect these realities and be realigned to protect the unborn!" At the center of this legal battle is a Mississippi law passed in 2018 which limits abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy. There are statutory exceptions to save the life and preserve the physical health of the mother, or in cases of severe fetal abnormality. The law w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-office-to-host-mobile-office-hours-in-sarasota-county/ Steube Office to Host Mobile Office Hours in Sarasota County 2021-12-01 2021 2021-12 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Office to Host Mobile Office Hours in Sarasota County NORTH PORT, FLA. – The office of U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) is hosting mobile office hours tomorrow, Thursday, December 2, 2021, from 11am-1pm in North Port, Fla. “My office can be a resource to you if you have any issues with federal agencies like the VA or the IRS,” Steube said. “While we cannot guarantee you a favorable outcome, we will do our best to help you receive a timely response to your problem.” Mobile Office Hours Location: City of North Port, Conference Room 302, 4790 City Hall Blvd North Port, FL 34286. Residents of the 17th Congressional District of Florida can contact Steube’s office for assistance in dealing with Federal agencies. In order to get assistance, individuals will need to fill out a Privacy Act Release Form. The letter must be signed by the person directly affected. If you cannot attend, please visit here for information on how to get help with a federal agency. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=206 Congressman Dunn Fights for Medicare Patients 2021-11-30 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Neal P. Dunn D000628 dunn.house.gov dunn https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (Florida-02) released the following statement ahead of the fiscal deadline for 2022. "Patients in my district could lose their doctors unless Congress takes immediate action. Beginning January 1st, 2022, medical providers will endure a 10% cut in their Medicare reimbursement payments. This is bad news for my constituents and the rest of America, especially our seniors. If you have Medicare today, will you have a doctor tomorrow? Many providers may be forced to close their doors or stop accepting Medicare entirely, thus limiting access to care when patients need it most. That’s my focus heading into 2022. I will vote NO on any legislation that extends government funding beyond December 31st without protecting my constituents’ relationships with their doctors.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-honors-area-student-who-invented-potentially-life-saving-app Buchanan Honors Area Student Who Invented Potentially Life-saving App 2021-11-29 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper SARASOTA, Fla — Congressman Vern Buchanan on Monday recognized Jace Billingsley as the winner of the 2021 Congressional District App Challenge. Billingsley designed a software application to help health care workers administer the American Heart Association’s recommended interventions used to resuscitate patients experiencing cardiac or respiratory failure, also known as a “code blue.” Buchanan hailed the ingenuity of Billingsley, saying “I can’t commend him enough for inventing such an important and potentially life-saving tool. I’m proud to name Jace this year’s winner of the 16th Congressional District App Challenge, part of a national competition to encourage interest in science, technology, engineering and math.” Jace Billingsley is 13-years-old and a 7th grade student at Buffalo Creek Middle School in Palmetto, Fla. “STEM education gives students the tools they need to succeed and help the U.S. compete in an increasingly global 21st century economy,” Buchanan continued. “Children are 25 percent of the population, but 100 percent of the future, and the future is in good hands with students like Jacob.” The winning entry, “The Code Blue App” is made for hospital staff and other health care workers to help accurately time the various and simultaneous physical, electrical and chemical interventions used to resuscitate a patient when they experience cardiac or respiratory failure. The American Heart Association regularly updates the sequence and timing of these actions, which are built into The Code Blue App to assist the health care worker save lives during a code blue emergency. The app also records the necessary data needed for the patient’s medical records and downloads the file to a computer. The app will be featured on CongressionalAppChallenge.us and will also be eligible to have photos of its interface displayed in the U.S. Capitol. “I enjoy working with practical applications and I cannot think of anything more practical than an app that could be used by hospitals to help save someone’s life,” sai… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=279 Franklin Calls on Biden Administration to Keep FARC on Designated Terrorist List 2021-11-26 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Scott Franklin F000472 franklin.house.gov franklin https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement in response to a report that the Biden Administration plans to remove the FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) from the list of designated foreign terrorist organizations: Once again, the Biden Administration is signaling weakness to our enemies and allies through its plan to remove the FARC as a designated terrorist group. The FARC are a ruthless terrorist group responsible for the deaths of countless innocent people. For decades it has used extortion, kidnapping, murder, terrorism, and drug trafficking to threaten regional security. The FARC has allied itself with the worst actors in our hemisphere, including the Maduro regime in Venezuela, and has proven to be an international menace. Thousands of Colombian Americans living in Florida know all too well the terrible crimes this group has committed. It is on their behalf that I call on the Biden Administration to cease its plans to remove the FARC from the list of designated foreign terrorist organizations. Related News Franklin Supports Passage of 2023 National Defense Authorization Act March 29, 2023 | Posted in Press Releases Franklin and Colleagues Demand Answers from Pentagon Regarding Senior Official’s Racially Divisive Statements January 11, 2023 | Posted in Press Releases Franklin Applauds House Passage of Critical Defense Bill July 20, 2022 | Posted in Press Releases Franklin Secures Key Provisions in 2023 House Defense Spending Bill June 24, 2022 | Posted in Press Releases Franklin, Bacon, Lamb, and Carbajal Introduce Bill to Establish the Technology Competitiveness Council June 22, 2022 | Posted in Press Releases 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-and-members-florida-congressional-delegation-urge-cms-protect Bilirakis and Members of the Florida Congressional Delegation Urge CMS to Protect Patient Access to Advanced Cancer Treatment 2021-11-23 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. — Congressman Gus Bilirakis and a bipartisan/bicameral group of Florida Congressional members wrote a letter to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure urging the agency to exclude low-volume modalities such as proton beam therapy (PBT) from the Radiation Oncology (RO) Model, which is set to begin January 2022 and threatens to cut up to 50 percent in Medicare reimbursements to providers of this high-quality radiation treatment. Florida-based PBT centers are some of the most advanced in the nation, treating more than 14,000 cancer patients including thousands of pediatric patients to date. Joining Bilirakis were Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), U.S. Representatives Kat Cammack (R-FL), John Rutherford (R-FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Gregory Steube (R-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), and Al Lawson (D-FL). "It [proton beam therapy] is a more effective, precise, and safer alternative to conventional radiation therapies widely available today," the lawmakers wrote. "While traditional radiation therapies often harm healthy tissues and organs, PBT limits radiation exposure, thus reducing side effects, and lowering the risk of secondary cancers. Florida's pediatrics population particularly benefits from PBT as it reduces the risk of developmental, hormonal, muscular, and skeletal deficiencies, including hearing loss. Florida is proud to call the nation's leading PBT center home, which opened in 2006 and treats patients of all ages, including more than 2,000 children. Furthermore, PBT centers across the state are effectively treating patients who are diagnosed with localized tumors such as brain, breast, head and neck, eye, gastrointestinal, lung, prostate, esophageal, and other cancers. While this RO Model would only impact Medicare beneficiaries, the reimbursement cuts threaten to disrupt care for all PBT patients as these centers treat a significant amount of Medicare patients. The cut to Medicare f… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B0488CFA-54E3-4ACE-8589-6D0A9A8F1E80 Webster Joins Colleagues to Defend Rights of Healthcare Providers 2021-11-22 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) joined Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) and 98 colleagues to introduce the Conscience Protection Act, which would strengthen the rights of healthcare providers to object to medical procedures, namely abortion, that they hold serious moral or religious objections to. “Life is our most precious gift and an unalienable right promised to every American in our Declaration of Independence. Sadly, my Democratic colleagues and the current administration are now pushing policies and abandoning bipartisan provisions that protect the right to life,“ said Congressman Webster. “I have fought to defend the rights of the unborn and to protect the religious liberties of thousands of healthcare professionals opposed to abortion. I will not waver in this fight.“ Currently, enforcement of existing federal conscience statutes relies on action from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and recent moves by the Biden Administration have made clear that they have little interest in protecting employees from discrimination should they morally or religiously object to participating in certain medical procedures. The Conscience Protection Act would, among other provisions, provide a private right of action for employees to defend their conscience rights in court by suing their employer if punished or terminated for registering moral or religious objections. For the full bill text, click here. An identical version was introduced by Senator Lankford (R-OK) in February 2021. What others are saying about the bill: “It is hard to imagine a more blatant civil rights violation that being forced to abandon your beliefs and take part in ending an innocent human life. HHS found that the University of Vermont Medical Center forced a nurse, against her known religious beliefs, to do just that. This is not only fundamentally wrong, but a direct violation of federal law. Yet the Department of Justice voluntarily dismissed the case against UVMC,” said William E. L… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-and-members-florida-delegation-demand-answers Bilirakis and Members of the Florida Delegation Demand Answers 2021-11-19 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. — Congressman Gus Bilirakis and a group of his Florida Congressional Delegation Colleagues sent a letter to U.S Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland requesting a full accounting of the administration's actions followingreportsthat more than 70 flights carrying illegal immigrants have secretly landed in Jacksonville, FL over the past six months. "Floridians deserve answers about who is being brought into our state and what safeguards are in place to ensure our communities remain safe," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. Specifically, the lawmakers demanded to know "who is being transported, their immigration status, whether they have been tested for COVID-19 or have shown proof of vaccination, final destinations and any applicable security reviews performed. Information should also include when the transportation first took place, the number of migrants transported to date, as well as future planned or estimated travel, whether state, county or local government entities were alerted prior to arrival and any federal resources provided to assist with the migrants, and any follow-up actions, including whether a notice to appear was issued." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-takes-strong-stance-against-socialism-votes-against-leftist-tax-and Bilirakis Takes a Strong Stance Against Socialism - Votes Against Leftist Tax and Spending Spree 2021-11-19 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper November 19, 2021 Washington, DC: Earlier today, Speaker Pelosi pushed through a more than 2,100-page tax and spending bill that contains wasteful spending that will fuel already record-high inflation. The bill also contains many far-left socialist policies that Americans have already rejected. Contrary to claims made by President Biden about this bill costing the American tax payers nothing, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office indicates that this bill will add at least $367 billion to the deficit over the next ten years. "My constituents and countless small businesses in my district are already suffering due to the reckless behavior of this Administration and Congressional Democrats. They are grappling with government intrusion into all aspects of their lives, spending more on everything due to skyrocketing inflation, and seeing unnecessary delays due to the national supply chain shortage," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. "The items funded in this bill do not reflect the priorities and values of my constituents. This package also does not offer the solutions American families need to the real challenges they are facing. In fact, many of its provisions will only make their situations worse, which is why I voted no!" In a bill plagued with irresponsible spending and radical policies, Congressman Bilirakis has identified the Top 16 most objectionable portions of the spending bill below. Includes new incentives for illegal immigration: Illegal immigrants would be eligible for federal student aid (page 78) and the enhanced child tax credit (page 1647) Drives up costs on Americans' utility bills: Includes a tax on natural gas, up to $1,500 per ton, that could cost the American economy an estimated $9.1 billion and eliminate 90,000 American jobs (page 361). This will have a negative impact on all Americans who consume electricity, not just those making over $400,000 annually as the White House claims. Additionally, 9% of people making between $0 and $50,000 will see a tax increase under this bill, while 2… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammack-issues-statement-hell-no-vote-against-hr-5376-build Congresswoman Kat Cammack Issues Statement On "Hell No" Vote Against H.R. 5376, The "Build Back Better Act" 2021-11-19 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Kat Cammack C001039 cammack.house.gov cammack https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Kat Cammack issued the following statement about her "hell no" vote against H.R. 5376, the "Build Back Better Act:" "Since this bill's inception, and throughout its many changes, iterations, versions, and revisions, I've maintained that this bill is a heaping pile of garbage," said Rep. Cammack. "It's an American dream killer, sells future generations down the river, and utterly changes the moral fabric of our nation for the worse. From the very beginning, we've known that this bill would cost the American people trillions of dollars, yet even without a CBO score, congressional Democrats wanted to forge ahead with a vote on this disastrous piece of legislation, ignoring the dangerous implications it will have on already-soaring inflation and our economy. "To say I'm disappointed is an understatement. This bill is full of radical, liberal wish list priorities, including amnesty for millions of illegal immigrants, 87,000 new IRS agents to target the working-class Americans, higher taxes for the American middle class, regulations that will crush American businesses, and the list goes on. "One thing I can say with extreme certainty: the House's passage of this dumpster fire of a bill just solidified an overwhelming Republican majority in 2022. Now we sit back and wait for the record number of retirements by House Democrats; they know they won't survive this, but they voted for it anyway. Shame on them." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=377 Franklin Votes Against President Biden's Disastrous Spending Plan 2021-11-19 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Scott Franklin F000472 franklin.house.gov franklin https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15) issued the following statement after voting against H.R. 5376, the so-called Build Back Better Act: This morning, I voted against irresponsible government spending and in favor of putting our country back on the path to economic prosperity. President Biden’s $1.75 trillion spending plan will further escalate inflation, add to our national debt, and expand government control over our daily lives. Democrats claim this bill will help address our economic woes, but all they’ve managed to do is ram through the largest taxing and spending bill in United States history. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-legislation-to-waive-burdensome-fees-for-veterans-introduced-in-the-senate/ Steube Legislation to Waive Burdensome Fees for Veterans Introduced in the Senate 2021-11-19 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Legislation to Waive Burdensome Fees for Veterans Introduced in the Senate WASHINGTON, D.C.— The Senate companion bill to U.S. Representative Greg Steube’s (R-Fla.) legislation, the Free Veterans from Fees Act, was introduced by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). “Our veterans have made countless sacrifices to protect our freedoms, and the least we can do is ensure that they are not subjected to burdensome fees when visiting memorials built in their honor,” Steube said. “I am honored that Senator Rubio is championing this effort in the Senate to free our veterans from these unnecessary fees and make their lives a little easier.” The Free Veterans from Fees Act passed the House of Representatives earlier this Congress with bipartisan support. This legislation waives special-use permit fees for veterans’ demonstrations and special events at war memorials administered by the National Park Service in the District of Columbia. “This legislation is simple: veterans should not have to pay fees to hold special events at memorials that are meant to honor them,” Rubio said. “Veterans sacrificed so much to serve our country, and waiving these administrative fees is the least we can do to thank them for their service.” Veterans’ groups and Gold Star Families visit national war memorials arranged through various veterans’ organizations throughout the year. To obtain a permit for their visit, these veterans’ groups must often pay burdensome administrative fees and other processing costs related to visiting memorials. The Free Veterans from Fees Act passed the Natural Resources Committee with unanimous consent and passed the U.S. House of Representatives during both the 115th and the 116th Congress. This legislation received bipartisan support and was endorsed by American Veterans (AMVETS), a veteran organization that represents 250,000 members nationwide. The full text of the legislation can be found here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-bilirakis-frankel-wilson-deutch-mcgovern-introduce-legislation-award-101 Reps. Bilirakis, Frankel, Wilson, Deutch & McGovern Introduce Legislation to Award 101-Year-Old Nuremberg Prosecutor the Congressional Gold Medal 2021-11-18 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL012), Lois Frankel (D-FL-21), Joe Wilson (R-SC-02), Ted Deutch (D-FL-22), and Jim McGovern (D-MA-02) introduced a bipartisan bill to award Benjamin Ferencz—the last living Nuremberg prosecutor— with a Congressional Gold Medal on the anniversary of the Nuremberg Trials. During WWII, Ferencz served in the U.S. Army and helped collect evidence of Nazi war crimes. After the war, he was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant of Infantry and was awarded five medals for his service. Over the course of his life, Ferencz has been a tireless advocate for the rule of law and international justice. This remarkable centenarian embodies the best of what the United States—and the American people—offer to the world. "The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. Certainly Ben Ferencz, who has spent more than 50 years prosecuting war crimes and genocide, qualifies for this prestigious honor. He has spent his entire, distinguished career pursuing justice for victims of horrific, unthinkable crimes against humanity. And he has succeeded, over and over again. In one instance, he secured justice for 20 Nazi Schutzstaffel (SS) officers responsible for killing more than one million people in towns and villages across Eastern Europe. These officers never would have been brought to justice if it weren't for his efforts. Throughout history, humanity has encountered many faces of evil. Our brightest moments as an international community have been those in which we present a united front in our efforts to identify and eradicate its presence. Mr. Ferencz has been at the helm leading that important work, and I am humbled to honor him," said Rep. Bilirakis. "From his military service during World War II, to his role as chief prosecutor in a trial that brought 22 Nazi officials to justice, Ben Ferencz has led a remarkable life dedicated to the pursuit of justice," said Rep. Frankel. "He is a tr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=337 Franklin Stands with Cuban People Seeking Liberty 2021-11-18 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Scott Franklin F000472 franklin.house.gov franklin https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15) issued the following statement to express solidarity with the Cuban people in their fight for freedom: “Once again, Cuba’s Communist regime showed the world that it will do whatever it takes to silence dissent and suppress the rights of the Cuban people. This summer, thousands of brave Cubans took to the streets to protest more than 60 years of human rights abuses by the Castro regime. After a brutal crackdown, these brave souls again attempted to take to the streets on November 15th to demand their freedom. Sadly, the regime decided to stop these efforts ahead of time by pre-emptively targeting leaders and organizers of the protest movement. As freedom-loving Americans, we cannot stand idly by as the Communist regime continues to deprive our Cuban friends of their God-given liberties. In response to the regime’s actions, I co-sponsored the FORCE act, which prevents the Castro dictatorship from being removed from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list until they meet certain conditions regarding human rights. I join my Florida colleague Rep. Maria Elvira-Salazar in calling for the Biden Administration to work with technology companies to provide internet access to Cubans so that they can tell the world about their struggle for freedom. I stand in solidarity with the Cuban people who are bravely fighting against tyranny and oppression. The time for freedom and democracy is now.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/five-bilirakis-bills-move-forward Five Bilirakis Bills Move Forward 2021-11-17 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. Earlier today, five Bilirakis-authored bills were reported favorably out of the Energy and Commerce Committee. These bills now head to the House Floor for final passage. "With so much dysfunction taking place in Washington lately, it is refreshing to see commonsense bipartisan solutions moving forward," said Congressman Bilirakis. "These bills will make a positive impact on the lives of millions of Americans and I urge my colleagues to join me in pushing them across the finish line." The Integrity, Notification, and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces for Consumers (INFORM Consumers) Act by Bilirakis and Schakowsky combats the online sale of stolen, counterfeit, and dangerous consumer products by directing online platforms that allow for third-party sellers of consumer products to verify the identity of high-volume third-party sellers, which will prevent organized retail crime. The bill will also ensure that consumers can verify basic identification and contact information for high-volume third-party sellers of consumer products on online marketplaces. "This pro-consumer legislation enacts uniform, nationwide rules to promote safety, increase transparency, and provide greater accountability for online sales. It will provide a layer of enhanced protections for consumers from stolen and counterfeit goods without adding undue burdens on small mom-and-pop businesses," said Congressman Bilirakis. "This bill is a win-win for consumers and legitimate businesses in the online marketplace." The second Bilirakis bill to pass out of committee today is the Restoring Brand USA Act. Brand USA—which is funded by international visitors and private contributions—has generated $56 billion to our economy since 2013 and has historically supported more than 45,000 jobs each year. However, the partnership has lost significant funding as a result of the drop in international visitors due to pandemic travel restrictions. The Restoring Brand USA Act will help Brand USA promote the U.S. to international visitors by d… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammack-issues-statement-vote-censure-rep-paul-gosar-az-04 Congresswoman Kat Cammack Issues Statement On Vote To Censure Rep. Paul Gosar (AZ-04) 2021-11-17 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Kat Cammack C001039 cammack.house.gov cammack https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack issued the following statement on the resolution to censure Rep. Paul Gosar (AZ-04): "I have and will always condemn violence and have reiterated repeatedly that it has no place in our country and our society. The vote to censure Rep. Gosar defies procedural precedent when Democrats decided to circumvent the complaint process by taking the vote directly to the Floor instead of through the House Ethics Committee," said Cammack. "The Democrats made the decision to pursue removing a duly-elected member of the opposite party from serving on his House committees, which furthers the damaging the precedent they established earlier this Congress. "Right now, we have got to be focused on the issues directly facing our country, including rising prices, extreme inflation, the border crisis, and more." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=06E9A093-6148-4713-98FC-EB2C5F8118D5 Webster and Colleagues Introduce Resolution to Nullify Biden's Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandate 2021-11-17 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) joined Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) and 160 colleagues to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to formally disapprove of and nullify President Joe Biden's unconstitutional vaccine mandate imposed on America's job creators and workers. The Biden Administration recently released details on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Emergency Temporary Standard mandating vaccination requirements for employees at private businesses with more than 100 employees. The rule will affect more than 80 million Americans and impose $14,000 fines for persons who do not comply. "I am opposed to vaccine mandates; healthcare decisions should be between an individual and their health care provider - not the result of demands by Washington politicians," Congressman Webster said. "President Biden's dystopian vaccine mandate defies science and goes far beyond the role of the federal government by strong-arming employers and threatening the right of millions of Americans to earn a living. I will continue to work with my colleagues to defend the freedoms of the American people." "The broad support that our Congressional Review Act resolution has garnered sends a clear message to President Biden: The American people are fed up with the mandates and government control," Congressman Keller said. "Our nation faces a host of crises created by this administration, including supply chain challenges and skyrocketing costs for everyday goods and services. President Biden's illegal vaccine mandate is crippling for Main Street job creators and workers. We will continue to do everything we can to oppose this authoritarian rule." Full bill text can be found here. Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) also introduced a companion bill in the Senate, garnering support of all 50 Republican Senators. Additional House co-sponsors include: Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23), Whip Steve Scalise (LA-01), Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (NY-21), and Representati… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-bill-improve-maternal-health-care-veterans-headed-president Bilirakis Bill to Improve Maternal Health Care for Veterans Headed to the President 2021-11-16 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Representatives Gus Bilirakis (FL-R) and Lauren Underwood(IL-D)'s bipartisan legislation to improve maternal health care for Veterans passed the House today, after already clearing the Senate last month with bipartisan support. The Senate version of the legislation is led by Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME). The Protecting Moms Who Served Act seeks to eliminate maternal mortality, morbidity, and disparities among Veterans. "These critical investments in the maternal healthcare all female Veterans receive will help save lives and lead to healthier outcomes for moms and babies," said Representative Bilirakis. "Our nation's heroes deserve the best possible care, and our legislation gets us one step closer to achieving that goal." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-condemns-biden-border-crisis-urges-immediate-action Bilirakis Condemns Biden Border Crisis, Urges Immediate Action 2021-11-16 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC: Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis took to the House Floor to condemn the Biden Border Crisis and to urge his colleagues to abandon the radical policies that are fueling the historic onslaught of illegal border crossings. Since President Biden took office, there have been over 1.4 million illegal border crossings. These record-high apprehensions keep increasing, with no end in sight. The Biden Administration has not responded to requests for detailed information about how it plans to stop the newest expected surge with a caravan of migrants currently headed through Mexico to the U.S. southern border. "The problem is actually much worse than these already staggering numbers suggest," warned Congressman Bilirakis. "When I spoke with Border Patrol Agents during my recent visit to the southern border, they confirmed that they are only able to apprehend a fraction of the people, drugs, and weapons illegally entering the country as they are simply overwhelmed by the dramatic increases. These brave public servants noted the extreme difficulties associated with trying to keep our country secure without a physical barrier along portions of the border. Out of the 1.4 million people who have been apprehended while trying to illegally gain access to the country, more than 283,000 have been released into the United States. Approximately 95,000 illegal immigrants were released with a "Notice to Report." Based upon previous patterns of behavior, it is reasonable to assume that many of these individuals will fail to comply with their order to report back later and will simply disappear within the country. This represents a significant security risk. Instead of addressing what has become a humanitarian, health and national security problem, the Biden Administration and Congressional Democrats keep announcing plans that will only exacerbate the problem, Bilirakis cautioned. For example, the Administration has discussed paying illegal immigrants settlement payments of up to $450,000. These individuals broke… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gus-bilirakis-receives-national-award Congressman Gus Bilirakis Receives National Award 2021-11-16 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. —Congressman Gus Bilirakis has accepted The Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) American PATRIOT Award for standing up against harmful policies currently being advanced in Washington, D.C. and for consistently promoting the American values of faith, family, and freedom. AMAC CEO Rebecca Weber, surrounded by AMAC staff and supporters, welcomed Members of Congress to the awards event and personally presented Congressman Bilirakis with a custom AMAC American PATRIOT Award. During the award ceremony, AMAC Action President Bob Carlstrom pointed out the increasingly radical policies of current Congressional leadership. He then said: "Congressman Gus Bilirakis has consistently defended the free enterprise system and the American values of faith, family, and freedom while pushing back against government overreach. As this administration doubles down on legislation that will dramatically expand that welfare state and hike taxes on the middle class, Congressman Gus Bilirakis continues to lock arms with AMAC and our 2.3 million members nationwide against these destructive ideas." "I am honored to receive the American Patriot Award from AMAC," said Congressman Bilirakis. "AMAC is an advocacy organization committed to protecting American values, freedoms, equality of opportunity, sanctity of life, and the rule of law. AMAC has proven itself to be a strong champion for American seniors and I will continue to stand alongside its members as we fight to protect and preserve our way of life for future generations." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=882E9D18-82F6-422D-BEFF-73AE9DF4A9C6 AMAC Presents Webster with American PATRIOT Award 2021-11-16 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – The Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) recently presented the American PATRIOT Award to Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, for standing up against harmful policies currently being advanced in Washington, D.C. and consistently promoting the American values of faith, family, and freedom. "Congressman Dan Webster has consistently defended the free enterprise system and the American values of faith, family, and freedom while pushing back against government overreach," said AMAC Action President Bob Carlstrom. "As this administration doubles down on legislation that will dramatically expand that welfare state and hike taxes on the middle class, Congressman Dan Webster continues to lock arms with AMAC and our 2.3 million members nationwide against these destructive ideas." "I serve the oldest district, per-capita, in the nation and many AMAC members call my district home," said Rep. Webster. "As a senior myself, I know what many of my constituents face on a day-to-day basis as they see costs of basic goods rising, American values being disrespected, and our freedoms being challenged. I will keep fighting for our seniors and to restore fiscal responsibility, while pushing forward policies that empower families and small businesses and uphold American values and ideals. AMAC is a strong voice for safeguarding seniors and I am honored to receive this award." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-responds-report-confirming-biden-administrations-overreach Bilirakis Responds to Report Confirming Biden Administration’s Overreach 2021-11-15 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC: Earlier today, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) confirmed that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) does not have legal authority to permanently extend enhanced Medicaid funding in Puerto Rico, as the Biden Administration has recently asserted. In its legal opinion, the GAO notes "HHS's FY 2022 allotment of $2,943,000,000 for Puerto Rico was not authorized," and "the plain meaning of the language of the statute is clear." In response to this opinion, Congressman Gus Bilirakis, who has spearheaded bipartisan legislation on this important topic, released the statement below. "We have an obligation to ensure a continued safety net for our most vulnerable patient populations while putting safeguards in place to strengthen accountability for the wise use of taxpayer dollars. We must also incentivize best practices in the Medicaid program. Prior to the Biden Administration incorrectly asserting that it did not need specific statutory authority to extend enhanced funding, Congressman Soto and I worked together in good faith to craft language that achieved these goals. Our bill ensured continued funding access to healthcare for America's seniors, children, and those with disabilities in Puerto Rico and U.S. territories while strengthening accountability and program integrity to prevent fraud and abuse. Now that an independent entity has corroborated that the Biden Administration overstepped its authority, Democrats in Congress need to insist that we use the proper legislative procedure. We must advance our bipartisan agreement to avoid further confusion and uncertainty," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-announces-2021-congressional-fire-and-rescueems-award-winners Buchanan Announces 2021 Congressional Fire and Rescue/EMS Award Winners 2021-11-15 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper BRADENTON, Fla. – Congressman Vern Buchanan today announced the winners of the 16th Congressional District Fire and Rescue and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Awards. Buchanan established the awards to give special recognition to fire and rescue and EMS personnel who have provided distinguished service to his constituents back in 2010. “As first responders, fire departments and emergency medical service teams are summoned on short notice to serve their communities,” said Buchanan. “Oftentimes, they arrive at scenes of great adversity and trauma, to which they reliably bring strength and composure. These brave men and women spend hundreds of hours in training so that they are prepared when they get `the call.’ I believe these awards are a fitting tribute to our first responders and a reminder of the important role they play in our communities.” This year’s award recipients were selected by an independent committee comprised of a cross section of current and retired fire and rescue personnel living in the district. Buchanan presented awards to the following outstanding fire and rescue and EMS personnel: Dedication and Professionalism Award: Hillsborough County Fire and Rescue Lieutenant Kimberlee Rogers and Deputy Chief Jason Dougherty Manatee Search Nicholas Reis Manatee County EMS Social Worker Sonia Shuhart Career Service Award: Parrish Fire District Division Chief Michael Williamson Preservation of Life Award Hillsborough County Fire and Rescue Captain John Shirah and Driver Engineer Peter Dziubinski Sarasota County Fire Department Lieutenant Randy Allen and Fire Medics Miriam Troyer, Andrew Moler and Michael Alberti Associate Service Award: Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant Terri Adams; Corporals William Barnes and Carlos Brito; Deputies Keaton Bruce and Andrew Fleming; and Civilians Trexley and Bradley Cleophat Unit Citation: Hillsborough County Fire and Rescue Chief Morris Lopez; Captains Derek Butler, Michael Bugg, Erik Sawyer, and Brian Visnovec; Acting Captains Charles Brid… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-mario-diaz-balart-honors-fl-25-veterans Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart Honors FL-25 Veterans 2021-11-12 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper Miami, FL – This week, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) recognized a group of local veterans with the Congressional Veteran Commendation. The Congressional Veteran Commendation is a nominations-based program designed to recognize the wartime sacrifices and peacetime community involvement of veterans residing in Florida's 25th Congressional District. The honorees listed below will be interviewed, and their wartime collections will be added to the Veterans History Project, sponsored by the Library of Congress. Colonel William G. Perez– United States Marine Corps Miami Lakes, FL Lieutenant Colonel Duilia Mora Turner– United States Air Force Doral, FL Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Barry Walters– United States Marine Corps Naples, FL Captain Robert Francis Merkel– United States Marine Corps Hialeah, FL Sergeant First Class Heriberto Alvarado Hartnack– United States Army Naples, FL ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-leads-letter-asking-president-biden-support-cuban-people Diaz-Balart Leads Letter Asking President Biden to Support the Cuban People 2021-11-12 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) led a letter to President Biden, urging that he take decisive and expeditious action to support the Cuban people in their demands for freedom in the wake of the regime's increasing repression leading up to the planned protests on November 15. "With the Cuban regime’s increasing repression and the planned November 15 protests, I sent a letter to President Biden urging that he take decisive and expeditious action, including through democracy programming, broadcasting, global diplomacy, internet access, and sanctions, to support the longsuffering Cuban people in their pleas for freedom." Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart was joined by Reps. Maria Elvira Salazar, Carlos A. Gimenez, Nicole Malliotakis, Byron Donalds, Victoria Spartz, and Jenniffer González-Colón. Read the full letter here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-lidera-carta-pidiendo-al-presidente-biden-que-apoye-al Díaz-Balart lidera carta pidiendo al presidente Biden que apoye al pueblo Cubano 2021-11-12 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC - Hoy, el congresista Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-25) dirigió una carta al presidente Biden, instando a que tome medidas decisivas y rápidas para apoyar al pueblo cubano en sus demandas por libertad a raíz de la creciente represión del régimen ante las protestas previstas para el 15 de noviembre. "Con la creciente represión del régimen en Cuba y las protestas planeadas para el 15 de noviembre, envié una carta al presidente Biden instando a que tomara medidas decisivas y rápidas, incluso a través de la programación democrática, la radiodifusión, la diplomacia global, el acceso a Internet y sanciones, para apoyar al sufrido pueblo cubano en sus súplicas por libertad". Junto al congresista Mario Díaz-Balart firmaron la carta los Representantes Maria Elvira Salazar, Carlos A. Gimenez, Nicole Malliotakis, Byron Donalds, Victoria Spartz, and Jenniffer González-Colón. El texto de la carta en inglés está aquí. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-cammack-announces-veteran-year-award-seeks-nominations-years Congresswoman Cammack Announces "Veteran Of The Year Award," Seeks Nominations For This Year's Recipient 2021-11-11 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Kat Cammack C001039 cammack.house.gov cammack https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper GAINESVILLE, FL – Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack announced the open nomination process for Florida's Third Congressional District's Veteran of the Year Award. The award is an opportunity for local veterans to be honored for their service and contributions to North Central Florida. "The Veteran of the Year Award recognizes the work of veterans who have served our country and continue to serve the community in Florida's Third Congressional District. Our veteran community is incredibly strong and we're looking forward to honoring one deserving hero for their contributions," said Rep. Cammack. "We're asking for the community's help in finding and nominating these veterans worthy of our gratitude and recognition." Nominations can be submitted online here and will be accepted until November 30, 2021. Criteria For Honorees: Nominated veterans must be a veteran of one of the five Armed Forces of the U.S. including Reserve or National Guard, or United States Merchant Marines. Nominated veterans must live within the Third Congressional District, which encompasses Alachua County, Bradford County, Clay County, Putnam County, Union County, and parts of Marion County. Veterans must be able to supply a DD-214. Veteran Of The Year Honoree Will Be Selected Based On: Service: Demonstrate a commitment to service in the community through advocacy, community projects, an act of heroism, and/or other actions. Excellence: Provide an example of how this veteran exudes a spirit of excellence. Dedication: Demonstrate dedication to supporting fellow veterans and building bridges between veterans and the North Central Florida community. Nominees will be evaluated by a panel with the winner announced in early December. With questions, please contact the Gainesville office at 352-505-0838 or email Adeline Sandridge. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-commemorates-20th-anniversary-911-attacks Diaz-Balart Commemorates the 20th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks 2021-11-11 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Mario Diaz-Balart D000600 mariodiazbalart.house.gov mariodiazbalart https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement on the 20th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. "Twenty years after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, we honor the memories of those who perished as a result of an evil plan hatched thousands of miles from our shores. We also remember the heroism of so many Americans on that day and the days after. First responders rushed into the twin towers to save those who were trapped, and brave passengers on Flight 93 rushed the cockpit and thwarted what would have been an even more disastrous attack. In the days and weeks that followed, hundreds combed through the smoking debris to find victims, and many who survived continue to suffer emotional trauma and severe health consequences as a result. Americans came together in response to that horror, and we vowed to combat terrorism, prevent another attack, and deliver those terrorists to the gates of hell. "The United States did not seek the war on terror; it sought us. Yet America was blessed to have a president with the moral clarity and unshakeable resolve to pursue the terrorists and those who harbored them and to take whatever measures were necessary to keep Americans safe. With a broad coalition of military forces, we and our allies spent the next twenty years fulfilling that promise. "Today, we remember the heroism, goodness, and resilience of Americans in the face of evil. We also honor the soldiers and Afghan allies who gave it all to successfully defeat terrorists, including the Taliban, and whose mission and legacy were betrayed by an Administration that handed back Afghanistan to the Taliban. "We must never forget the lessons learned of that horrific attack, which is that we must stand with our friends, remain resolute in our opposition to terrorism, and keep Americans safe." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-recognizes-north-port-artist-and-veteran-sgt-phillip-moore-as-november-fl-17-mvp/ Steube Recognizes North Port Artist and Veteran Sgt Phillip Moore as November FL-17 MVP 2021-11-11 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Recognizes North Port Artist and Veteran Sgt Phillip Moore as November FL-17 MVP NORTH PORT, FLA.— U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today recognized local North Port artist and Army Veteran, Sgt Phillip Moore, as the November FL-17 MVP. “Sgt Moore is a shining example of dedication, patriotism, and service and represents the best that our district has to offer,” Steube said. “He has used his unique talent to not only help manage his own PTSD, but to help his community by showing his art as a form of rehabilitation for fellow veterans.” Sgt Moore served 8 years in the 1st Cavalry Division with the United States Army and later did 3 combat deployments in Iraq from 2004-2010 before leaving the military. He moved to North Port in 2014, and is now a prized local artist, having created the “Art of War,” an 18-piece collection that is on display at the North Port Art Center. Sgt Moore’s art is influenced by his colorblindness. His vision physically shakes when looking at certain colors next to each other, a phenomenon called “Color Vibration.” Proceeds from paintings sold from his “The Art of War” collection will go to the Sgt Phillip S. Moore Veteran’s Art Scholarship, which will offer veterans the opportunity to attend classes at the North Port Art Center free of charge. Steube presented Sgt Moore with a certificate and flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in his honor. Each month, Steube and his team recognize an MVP from the 17th Congressional District who has made outstanding and unique contributions to the community. The purpose of this award is to recognize the unsung heroes across the District as they display extraordinary dedication to making a difference. MVPs are presented with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to thank them for their work and are publicly recognized in Steube’s weekly newsletter. To submit deserving nominees, constituents are encouraged to visit Steube.House.Gov/FL17MVP. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-calls-action-his-bill-combat-veteran-suicides Buchanan Calls for Action on His Bill to Combat Veteran Suicides 2021-11-10 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Ahead of Veterans Day, Congressman Vern Buchanan today sent a letter to the leaders of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee urging consideration of his bipartisan legislation to investigate the link between addictive opioids and the alarmingly high rate of suicides among veterans. Buchanan’s Veteran Overmedication and Suicide Prevention Act (H.R. 67) would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to review the deaths of all veterans it treated who died by suicide or from a drug overdose in the last five years. The new data generated by the bill will be used to better treat veterans suffering from both mental and physical injuries. “The high rate of suicide and drug overdose deaths among veterans is unacceptable," Buchanan said. “This legislation is critical to learning if prescription drugs, particularly opioid painkillers, are a contributing factor in veteran suicides. I encourage my colleagues on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee to pass this bill to further address these untimely deaths.” According to the VA, at least 60,000 veterans died by suicide between 2008 and 2017 – nearly 17 per day. Veteran suicides account for nearly 15 percent of all suicides in the United States. Joining Buchanan on the letter was Congressman Gerald Connolly, D-VA, the bill’s main Democratic co-sponsor. “It is clear we must do more to end this crisis and help reduce this needless and preventable loss of life,” said Buchanan and Connolly. This legislation is endorsed by three Veterans Service Organizations: the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) and AMVETS. “Understanding the impact of overmedication and veteran suicide begins with data,” said a representative for the VFW. “This legislation will help illuminate the seriousness and scope of this causation. Reducing the number of service members and veterans who die by suicide has been a priority for the VFW and will remain so until it is no longer needed. We must do whatever it takes to save the almost 20… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-pens-op-ed-in-sarasota-herald-tribune-criticizing-fauci-s-animal-abuse/ Steube Pens Op-Ed in Sarasota Herald-Tribune Criticizing Fauci’s Animal Abuse 2021-11-09 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Pens Op-Ed in Sarasota Herald-Tribune Criticizing Fauci’s Animal Abuse SARASOTA, FLA.– U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) penned an op-ed in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune calling out Dr. Anthony Fauci for authorizing cruel and unethical medical experimentation on animals. “Long before Fauci was obsessed with caging Americans in their homes in the name of ‘science,’ he directed the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to cage thousands of beagles in laboratories for cruel and unethical medical experimentation.” Steube wrote. In documents obtained by the White Coat Waste Project, it was revealed that Fauci’s division at the NIH ordered cruel and unnecessary drug toxicity tests on dogs, many of which were beagles and other animals that cost taxpayers over $1.68 million. “As the proud owner of four rescue dogs, I am appalled at the actions taken by our government under the direction of Dr. Fauci. Between his mishandling of COVID-19 and unconscionably cruel animal experiments, this man must be held accountable and resign immediately.” Steube continued. The full op-ed can be found here or below. OPINION: Fauci must be held accountable for cruel animal research Rep. Greg Steube “Long before Anthony Fauci, the chief medical adviser to the president, was obsessed with caging Americans in their homes – in the name of ‘science’ – he directed the National Institutes of Health to cage thousands of beagles in laboratories for cruel and unethical medical experimentation. According to the Beagle Freedom Project, beagles are often selected as the breed of choice for animal testing because they are ‘docile, people-pleasing and very forgiving. They are easy to ‘maintain’ in cages and do not have a tendency to bite when being hurt.’ In a report from the United States Department of Agriculture for fiscal year 2019, 797,546 animals were used in laboratory research in the United States. The government is only required to publicly report the treatment of animals listed in the Animal Welfare Act of 1996. Most species… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://gimenez.house.gov/2021/11/gimenez-scott-introduce-supply-chain-emergency-response-act Gimenez, Scott, Introduce the Supply Chain Emergency Response Act 2021-11-08 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Carlos A. Gimenez G000593 gimenez.house.gov gimenez https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) introduced this week The Supply Chain Emergency Response Act. The bill redirects $125 million of unspent, unobligated CARES Act funds to facilitate cargo vessels currently on hold along the West Coast to cross the Panama Canal and dock in the East. The legislation also allows state governors to use unspent, unobligated CARES Act funds to help offset port fees and other related state-level expenses. After the bill’s introduction, Gimenez said: “It is a grave failure of the Biden Administration that our store shelves are empty, and that Americans cannot find basic goods and products. From the beginning of this supply chain dilemma, Florida’s ports have clamored for more cargo vessels to reroute from their original port call to California and come to the East. Like Florida, several states in the Gulf and the eastern seaboard have both the port capacity and the logistical capabilities to ensure goods reach our shelves in a timely and efficient manner. Getting these cargo vessels to Florida and other eastern states also alleviates the shipping container shortage, which has made it difficult for American producers – from our farmers and ranchers to our domestic manufacturers – to ship their goods and products abroad. I thank Senator Rick Scott for introducing this bill in the Senate and joining this fight with me to help fix this supply chain issue with a commonsense approach. Senator Scott has always stood on the side of Florida’s workers. I also want to thank Governor Ron DeSantis for his steadfast leadership at the state-level in working to bring more cargo vessels to Florida’s ports – a move that will result in sizable economic activity for places such as PortMiami.” Florida Senator Rick Scott will be introducing the bill in the Senate, saying: “As empty shelves grow more and more common, prices are surging higher and small businesses can’t access the goods they need to serve their customers. Joe Biden’s supply chain and inflation crises are devastating… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-introduces-legislation-to-combat-rising-food-prices-for-american-families/ Steube Introduces Legislation to Combat Rising Food Prices for American Families 2021-11-07 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Introduces Legislation to Combat Rising Food Prices for American Families WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) introduced the Keep Food Local & Affordable Act to combat the recent rise in food prices experienced across the country due to historic labor shortages and inflation. This legislation would implement a temporary stay on the H-2A Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) for states struggling to find domestic workers to help stabilize U.S. food prices and ensure food production stays in the U.S. “Inflation has risen rapidly over the past year, increasing food and labor costs for Americans and farmers,” Steube said. “Biden’s inept leadership and reckless economic policies have created historic inflation and an unemployment and supply chain disaster that is leaving our grocery store shelves and wallets empty. The temporary stay placed on the H-2A AEWR will help address the rising input costs crippling our farmers and consumers.” According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, food prices increased 4.6% from September 2020 to September 2021, impacting the ability of Americans, particularly low to moderate income earners, to put food on the table. Americans have also seen their fuel prices rise by as much as 100%, and producers have seen their fertilizer prices increase by roughly 60% in Florida. Due to widespread inflation, the 2022 AEWR is expected to rise significantly, increasing U.S. food production costs and exacerbating the ongoing labor crisis. For reference, the AEWR increased over 20% over the last 5 years when inflation remained below 2.5%. The Keep Food Local & Affordable Act would implement a temporary stay on AEWR increases, which will maintain more reasonable input costs for farmers and keep food costs lower for Americans. “AFBF appreciates the leadership of Rep. Steube to address concerns with the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) for the H-2A program,” said American Farm Bureau Federation President, Zippy Duvall. “The Keep Food Local and Affordable Act is a targeted resp… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=375 Franklin Votes Against Expensive and Unnecessary Infrastructure Spending Bill 2021-11-06 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Scott Franklin F000472 franklin.house.gov franklin https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Rep. Scott Franklin (FL-15) issued the below statement after voting against H.R. 3684, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework): “Last night, I voted against the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act because it does not provide the infrastructure investment our economy needs and because it will set our country on the path to financial ruin. From the start, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi made clear that this infrastructure bill was tied to the so-called Build Back Better plan. While the infrastructure bill has some good aspects wrapped in a lot of bad, the Build Back Better plan is disastrous. Had the vote on the infrastructure bill failed, we could have stopped the BBB in its tracks. Now, I’m concerned that it has a stronger chance of becoming law. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-oral-health-bill-advances Bilirakis Oral Health Bill Advances 2021-11-05 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Today, the Oral Health Literacy and Awareness Act by Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12) andTony Cárdenas (D-CA-29) was voted favorably out of the Health Subcommittee. This bill directs the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to develop an oral health literacy strategy to reach underserved communities. This bipartisan bill aims to curb the rise in oral disease and related illnesses by providing prevention education through a five-year oral health literacy campaign. "Oral health is a vital component of overall wellness that is too often overlooked. As with many aspects of healthcare, prevention is key to long-term health. Lack of good oral hygiene has been proven to exacerbate chronic health conditions and contributes to costly, yet preventable, emergency care," said Congressman Bilirakis. "I am proud to be a part of this initiative to raise awareness about the proactive steps that can be taken to improve oral healthcare as I believe it will improve patient outcomes." "Millions of Americans often neglect their oral health without understanding the long-term effects on their overall physical health," said Congressman Cárdenas. "This is not just a public health issue, it's an economic one as well. Oral health illness result in tens of millions of lost workdays each year. Our bill focuses on educating vulnerable communities that often have higher than average oral health disease. By educating them on the importance of dental and oral hygiene, we hope to increase oral disease prevention and overall oral health care." According to findings from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), fewer than 49% of people used the oral health care system in 2020. Further, only 43.3% of children, adolescents and adults visited the dentist in 2016, which is less than the baseline set in 2007 (44.5%). Illnesses related to oral health have resulted in 6.1 million days of bed disability, 12.7 million days of restricted activity, and 20.5 million lost workdays each year, significantly impacting children,… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-rubio-introduce-bill-help-victims-domestic-abuse-perpetrated Buchanan, Rubio Introduce Bill to Help Victims of Domestic Abuse Perpetrated by Service Members 2021-11-05 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON —Congressman Vern Buchanan and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) today introduced the Rachel Booth Act, legislation to fix a gap in current law that prevents some individuals who suffer domestic abuse at the hands at a service member from receiving much-needed financial assistance. Buchanan introduced the legislation in the House with Congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-CA) and Rubio introduced the companion bill in the Senate with Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Maggie Hassan (D-NJ). The bill is named after Rachel Booth, a constituent of Congressman Buchanan’s from Lithia, FL, who found herself unable to access the financial assistance she should have been eligible for when her husband was convicted of domestic abuse in a civilian court and then discharged from the military on an unrelated offense. “Just as our men and women in the Armed Forces sacrifice for their country, so too do military spouses. In times of crisis, it’s critical that they are able to access these benefits in a timely and efficient manner,” Buchanan said. “I’m pleased to introduce this important legislation alongside Congresswoman Speier and Sens. Rubio, Gillibrand and Hassan to help domestic abuse victims get back on their feet as soon as possible.” Currently, dependents of service members are eligible to apply for Transitional Compensation (TC) to help them transition to financial independence after the service member has been discharged from the military for a domestic abuse offense. However, there are cases in which the service member is convicted of a domestic abuse offense in a civilian court but is discharged from the military for another offense. Current law requires a dependent in this situation to request “exceptional eligibility” from the member’s service secretary to be awarded TC, a process which could last as long as four years to be resolved. The Rachel Booth Act would fix this error by ensuring standard eligibility for TC for dependents of service members who are convicted of domestic abuse in civilian court, even if t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-pens-op-ed-in-washington-examiner-exposing-so-called-biden-tax-credit-actually-welfare-to-illegal-immigrants/ Steube Pens Op-Ed in Washington Examiner Exposing So-Called Biden Tax Credit, Actually Welfare to Illegal Immigrants 2021-11-05 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Pens Op-Ed in Washington Examiner Exposing So-Called Biden Tax Credit, Actually Welfare to Illegal Immigrants WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) penned an op-ed in the Washington Examiner highlighting the misleading aspects of President Biden’s so-called “child tax credit” that includes benefits to nontaxpayers, including illegal immigrants. “The Biden Administration and Democrats in Congress have now begun to use the IRS and tax code to circumvent this common-sense policy under the guise of a ‘child tax credit.'” Steube wrote. “Passed through the American Rescue Plan Act, the Democrats boasted about the credit all year, declaring a victory for taxpaying families. What they failed to mention, however, is the program also gives direct cash payments to so-called ‘taxpayers’ who don’t file or pay taxes, including illegal immigrants.” To qualify for Biden’s “child tax credit,” an individual simply needs to have a Taxpayer ID Number and a child who has a Social Security Number. There is no requirement that the individual works or has filed taxes. “American taxpaying families have been duped into believing they are actually benefitting from this misguided program, when in fact they have fallen victim to a larger scheme aiming to expand America’s welfare state.” Steube continued. “This program should not be extended until it can be implemented without giving payments to ‘taxpayers’ who don’t actually pay taxes or to illegal immigrants. Until these changes are made, this thinly veiled benefit scheme will only hurt hardworking American families who will be left to pay the bill.” The full op-ed can be found here or below. So-called Biden ‘tax credit’ is actually welfare for illegal immigrants By Congressman Greg Steube “In the 1990s, Congress prohibited illegal immigrants from receiving taxpayer-funded welfare benefits. The bipartisan Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996, signed into law by Bill Clinton, ensured that American tax dollars would not be used to subsidi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=9FD50F8D-2A92-4EE7-82F2-43E13F16A67B Webster Asks President Biden for Information on Secret Flights of Illegal Immigrants 2021-11-05 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont), Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL), and members of the Florida Delegation sent a letter to President Biden requesting information on the taxpayer-funded secret flights that transported illegal immigrants to the State of Florida. "President Biden's policies have created a humanitarian and national security crisis at our border. Instead of tackling this crisis, reversing his failed policies, supporting our hardworking border agents and securing our border, Biden's administration is transporting illegal migrants to other states in the dead of the night," said Rep. Webster. "We know that gang members and traffickers are exploiting our open borders, but what we don't know is whether these individuals are among those being resettled in our state. President Biden needs to provide these answers quickly and secure our border." "In further dismissal of the ongoing crisis on our southern border, this administration deciding to transport throughout the country in the middle of the night proves just how inept Joe Biden is at leading the nation," said Rep. Donalds. "Due to Biden's inaction, every state is now a border state. For the protection of our constituents and our state, my Florida colleagues and I demand answers on the covert resettlement of these illegal immigrants. The American people deserve clarity." "This administration must be more open and transparent about the crisis at our southern border," said Rep. Bill Posey. "Americans have every right to know how the influx of immigrants entering our country illegally will affect their communities." Click here for a copy of the letter. Full text is below. Dear President Biden, The state of the ongoing humanitarian crisis occurring at our southern border has reached dire levels. The surge of illegal immigrants seeking to migrate into the United States is at an all-time high, with the Washington Post reporting that authorities have detained more than 1.7 million migrants during the 2021 Fiscal Year. The flights… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=AFA6B0CA-DE9C-418D-AD6A-5E096B1D743F House Passes Webster Bargain-Price Bill 2021-11-05 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Last night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 2220 to allow General Services Administration (GSA) to enter into bargain price purchasing agreements. Introduced by Representatives Daniel Webster (R-FL), Michael Guest (R-MS) and Greg Pence (R-IN) the bill passed with broad bipartisan support. H.R. 2220 ensures that the General Services Administration (GSA) is able to negotiate discounted purchase options in situations when the buying of federal property is the cheaper alternative to a long-term lease. "Every dollar spent in Washington is a dollar taken out of a hardworking American's pocket," said Congressman Webster, R-Clermont. "I ran for Congress pledging to eliminate waste and improve efficiencies, so we are better investing taxpayer dollars. With today's action, we are one step closer to removing unnecessary obstacles that increase costs and replacing them with common sense practices that will save money. I thank my House colleagues for their support for this commonsense bill and encourage my colleagues in the U.S. Senate to pass it in a timely manner." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kat-cammack-leads-members-florida-house-delegation-letter-us-department Rep. Kat Cammack Leads Members Of Florida House Delegation Letter To U.S. Department Of Education Over Mask Mandates In Florida Schools 2021-11-04 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Kat Cammack C001039 cammack.house.gov cammack https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Cammack and six members of the Florida House delegation sent a letter to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Programs at the Department of Education in response to threatened "enforcement actions" against the Florida Department of Education for its decision to limit state funding for school boards in Alachua and Broward Counties. The letter raises questions over the politicization of school funding to subsidize the salaries of school board officials who defied Governor Ron DeSantis' orders prohibiting state mask mandates. Funds for the school boards in the aforementioned counties are derived from a federal program designed to improve and enhance school safety, prompting lawmakers' questions about the grant's proper use. "Not only have the funds for these Florida counties been misappropriated, but the federal Department of Education cannot be used as a political tool to punish decisions that are clearly under the state of Florida's purview," said Rep. Cammack. "We urge the Biden Administration and the Department of Education to end their retaliation against the Sunshine State and get back to its mandate: educating American students." Letter co-signers include Reps. Gus Bilirakis, Byron Donalds, Scott Franklin, Bill Posey, Greg Steube, and Daniel Webster. The full text of the letter can be found below. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The Honorable Ian Rosenblum Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Programs U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202 Dear Mr. Rosenblum, We write in response to your October 25th letter threatening "enforcement actions" against the Florida Department of Education for its decision to limit state education funding to the school boards of Alachua County and Broward County. It is unconscionable that the U.S. Department of Education is attempting to further poli… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=205 Congressman Dunn Cautions That President Bidens Vaccine Mandate Will Hurt Hardworking Americans 2021-11-04 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Neal P. Dunn D000628 dunn.house.gov dunn https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (Florida-02) released a statement following the Biden Administration’s announcement of a new COVID-19 vaccination rule that would require private businesses with 100 or more employees, health care workers, and federal contractors to be fully vaccinated by January 4, 2022. “The Biden Administration’s aggressive push to vaccinate all Americans by force is making an already devastating workforce shortage even worse. While I recommend getting the COVID-19 vaccine, I also believe that this is a decision to be made by you and your doctor – not the federal government,” said Congressman Dunn. “Thousands of hardworking Americans are at risk of losing their jobs thanks to this unnecessary mandate. The unnecessary strain on our health care industry is horribly shortsighted and will result in reduced access to care, which is the last thing we need right now. Currently, 70% of adult Americans are now fully vaccinated and COVID-19 cases are decreasing. If President Biden wants this trend to continue, he must focus on an expanded strategy incorporating natural immunity research and effective treatments.” The Biden Administration’s new vaccination policies include the following: An Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirement for employers with 100 or more employees to ensure each of their workers are fully vaccinated or tests for COVID-19 on at least a weekly basis. The OSHA rule will also require that these employers provide paid time for employees to get vaccinated, and ensure all unvaccinated workers wear a face mask in the workplace. A Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requirement that health care workers at facilities participating in Medicare and Medicaid are fully vaccinated. The rule applies to more than 17 million workers at approximately 76,000 health care facilities, including hospitals and long-term care facilities. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://gimenez.house.gov/2021/11/gimenez-statement-new-osha-guidelines Gimenez Statement on New OSHA Guidelines 2021-11-04 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Carlos A. Gimenez G000593 gimenez.house.gov gimenez https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) issued the following statement after today’s emergency temporary standard issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): President Biden, who has a habit of following political science instead of real science, continues to insist that federal employees, including our brave servicemembers who put their lives on the line every day in service to our country, must be vaccinated or else they face termination. Even the Biden Administration’s own OSHA guidelines say there is no need for full vaccine mandates in the workplace, allowing unvaccinated workers to continue their line of work with proper testing and mask requirements. It is time for President Biden and the bureaucrats in Washington, D.C. to admit that their push for vaccine mandates is not rooted in science. The President has publicly stated his desire for servicemembers, police offices, firefighters, and doctors who choose to not vaccinate to callously have their livelihoods ripped out from under them. We must do everything in our power to ensure our first responders and frontline workers remain protected now, and in the future, regardless of their vaccination status or the state in which they live. \r\n 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=56E0C38A-2BE4-4FE4-BCE8-A80D287303CB House Passes Webster Bill that Eliminates Barriers to Rural Internet Development 2021-11-04 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Today. the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3193, the E-Bridge Act, co-sponsored by Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, with broad bipartisan support. This bill removes hurdles for broadband projects under Economic Development Administration (EDA) grants, including difficult last-mile efforts that often delay rural broadband deployment. "We know broadband impacts the ability of distressed communities to attract jobs and businesses across a host of other industries, including the healthcare and energy sectors," said Congressman Webster. "I thank my House colleagues for their support for this commonsense bill, which removes unnecessary hurdles and helps more Americans get connected. I want to make sure that efforts to achieve this goal do not harm existing rural broadband providers which are often small businesses themselves that have spent capital and time trying to reach these communities - often in creative ways. I encourage our colleagues in the U.S. Senate to pass H.R. 3193 in a timely manner." H.R. 3193 also ensures that local communities can partner with the private sector in carrying out broadband projects and gives communities more flexibility in complying with their funding match requirements. By helping to increase the reach of broadband to rural and economically distressed communities, the E-BRIDGE Act will help: Attract new businesses and support current businesses in distressed regions of the country, Strengthen healthcare systems and delivery of medical care to vulnerable populations, Lay the groundwork for economic recovery in these areas, and Better prepare these communities for future disasters or epidemics. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=73FAC261-FC13-4286-AA1F-BA6CC7212739 Webster & Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Bar Taxation of Unrealized Capital Gains 2021-11-04 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) joined Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) in introducing legislation that bars the federal government from imposing or implementing taxation on unrealized capital gains from any taxable asset. "Under the guise of making sure the rich pay their fair share, President Biden and House Democrats are pushing tax policies that take more money out of the pockets of the Middle Class and Main Street businesses," Rep. Webster said. "Taxpayer dollars do not belong to Washington. They belong to hardworking Americans, who best know how to spend their hard-earned dollars. This bill allows small business owners to keep more of the fruits of their labor to re-invest in their business and in their employees, which empowers Americans with more money to buy a home, save for their children's education, and invest for retirement." "Democrats have become so desperate to find the means to fund their multi-trillion-dollar spending spree, they've now resorted to taxing wealth that technically doesn't exist," Rep. Donalds said. "An unrealized capital gains tax will empower the federal government to access the private transactions of Americans, needlessly expand bureaucracy in Washington, and will stifle economic prosperity for Americans." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-discusses-difficult-holiday-outlook-americans-while-warning-economy Bilirakis Discusses Difficult Holiday Outlook for Americans While Warning Economy is Headed in the Wrong Direction 2021-11-03 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. This Thanksgiving is expected to be the most expensive in history due to skyrocketing inflation. Americans have also been warned that their Christmas presents will cost more and might not arrive on time due to the supply chain disruptions. Representative Gus Bilirakis discussed these bleak projections earlier today on the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. "President Biden and House Democrats' out-of-control spending policies are to blame for both the economic and supply chain woes, said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. "To make matters worse, they are now pushing a "Made in America" tax, which will only drive businesses and jobs overseas and further devastate our troubled economy." There are plenty of signs that our economy is significantly struggling. Most recently, GDP growth decelerated to 2% in the third quarter. This is the slowest growth rate since the start of the pandemic-era recovery. Real disposable personal income also decreased another 5.6% in the third quarter after decreasing a staggering 30.2% in the second. "We must reverse course and abandon these irresponsible policies rather than continuing to compound the economic pain," Bilirakis lamented. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-hold-15th-annual-veterans-resource-fair Bilirakis to Hold 15th Annual Veterans’ Resource Fair 2021-11-03 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC: As part of Veterans and Military Families Month Congressman, Gus Bilirakis is hosting his 15th Annual Veterans Resource Fair on Saturday, November 13, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The event will take place on the Pasco Hernando State College Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch. Local Veterans and their families are encouraged to attend to learn more about available resources in the community, including: healthcare, education, benefits, employment services, mental health treatments, housing, and other social services. "Throughout my tenure in Congress, I've made advocating for Veterans and their families a top priority," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. "Each year, through the Veterans Resource Fair, we help link Veterans in need with available services provided through government agencies and non-profit organizations. My casework team will be on hand to help Veterans who're experiencing difficulty with a federal agency." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/rodgers-and-bilirakis-unveil-comprehensive-strategy-create-national-privacy Rodgers and Bilirakis Unveil Comprehensive Strategy to Create National Privacy Standard 2021-11-03 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. — Today, House Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Republican Leader for Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee Gus Bilirakis issued the following statement on a comprehensive legislative draft that establishes a national privacy standard to protect Americans and sets clear rules for consumer privacy and data security in the U.S. "We now share more of our personal information online than ever before. Everything from information about where we bank, what we buy at the grocery store, to where we drive, and how well we sleep. In order to ensure that our information is protected, we need one national privacy law that supports small businesses and innovation, promotes transparency, and incentivizes solutions for data security. Guided by these principles, Energy and Commerce Republicans are building on our privacy leadership with a new framework to establish a national privacy standard. "This national standard will provide clear rules of the road and give Americans the same data protections wherever they go. Privacy does not end at state lines and Americans deserve better than a patchwork of different and conflicting state laws. Every Republican Member of our Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee will be leading on our solutions to protect people's privacy. By building a comprehensive, forward-thinking national privacy standard, we will secure American economic leadership and ensure that we win the future." Every Member on the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee will lead on framework solutions in this comprehensive package: · Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) will focus on the creation of a Bureau of Consumer Privacy and Data Security, and how the FTC will implement transparency requirements. · Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI) will focus on how "legitimate purpose" is defined for companies, and how companies handle the retention of information so as not to be a cybersecurity target. · Rep. Bob Latta (OH) will focus on the need for one national standa… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/two-bilirakis-bills-advance Two Bilirakis Bills Advance 2021-11-03 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC: Earlier today, two bills authored by Congressman Gus Bilirakis were passed favorably out of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee. The Data Mapping to Save Moms' Lives Act will use data mapping to identify areas of the country where poor maternal health rates overlap with a lack of broadband access in order to deploy telehealth services most effectively. The United States is one of the only countries in the developed world with a rising maternal mortality rate. Around 700 women die each year in pregnancy related deaths—though 3 in 5 of those deaths are preventable. The problem is especially prevalent in rural communities and amongst women of color who continue to experience disproportionately high rates of maternal and infant mortality. "We need to use every tool at our disposal to improve health outcomes for moms and babies. Including this information into our broadband mapping will help us achieve this goal and ensure these moms get the prenatal care they deserve," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. The second Bilirakis bill that passed today involves the issue of spectrum, the highly sought-after radio frequencies that make wireless communications possible, which has revolutionized the world's way of communicating. Congressman Gus Bilirakis has been working to bring federal laws up to speed with the technological advances of the 21st century for the past six years. Currently, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) hold shared jurisdiction over the management of spectrum policies. However, these agencies have not created a system to coordinate usage of spectrum policies since their 2003 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Finding solutions to create a consistent and efficient use of spectrum that helps to foster innovation is key to promoting America's economic growth, universal service goals, and technological leadership. In recognition of this fact, Congressman Bilirakis introduced the Spectrum Coordination Ac… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=466 Rep. Donalds Announces Legislation Prohibiting the Implementation of Unrealized Capital Gains Taxation 2021-11-03 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Byron Donalds D000032 donalds.house.gov donalds https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper WASHINGTON – Yesterday, Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) introduced legislation that bars the federal government from imposing or implementing taxation on unrealized capital gains from any taxable asset. “Democrats have become so desperate to find the means to fund their multi-trillion-dollar spending spree, they’ve now resorted to taxing wealth that technically doesn’t exist,” said Rep. Donalds. “An unrealized capital gains tax will empower the federal government to access the private transactions of Americans, needlessly expand bureaucracy in Washington, and will stifle economic prosperity for Americans.” “Congressional Democrats will stop at nothing to fund their socialist agenda. The idea of taxing unrealized gains makes zero sense. How can you tax something that is admittedly… unrealized? Their boondoggle of a bill is filled with gimmicky pay-for after gimmicky pay-for and this is no exception,” said Rep. Timmons. “I thank my friend Rep. Donalds for introducing this bill and am proud to join him in this effort.” “With inflation at a 30-year high, now is the worst time to raise taxes on American families and businesses,” said Rep. Rose. “The proposed capital gains tax would lead to fewer jobs and lower wages. Rather than pushing tax increases, the Biden administration should be introducing policies that promote economic growth so that our economy can continue to grow. Businesses are flocking to Tennessee because of our pro-business and pro-family tax code. Take note, Mr. President.” “Democrats are pitching several dangerous ideas to pay for their multi-trillion-dollar spending package, all of which will hurt our economy and pass increased costs onto consumers,” said Rep. Fitzgerald. “I’m joining Rep. Donalds on this bill to ensure a tax on unrealized capital gains does not take effect. Studies have found implementing a capital gains tax would shrink our economy, and this is an outcome our country simply cannot afford on top of skyrocketing inflation.” “Under the guise of making sure the rich pay their fa… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-and-colleagues-oppose-sale-f-16s-turkey-demand-information-state Bilirakis and Colleagues Oppose Sale of F-16s to Turkey, Demand Information from State Department 2021-11-02 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. - Congressman Gus Bilirakis, alongside his Hellenic Caucus Co-Chair Carolyn Maloney (NY-12) and Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), led a group of colleagues in a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken opposing US plans to sell Turkey F-16s and demanding information from the State Department following recent reports of a request from Turkey to purchase 40 F-16 fighter jets and dozens of modernization kits for its existing warplanes from the United States. In the letter the lawmakers wrote, "In October it was reported that Turkey requested to purchase ‘40 Lockheed Martin-made F-16 fighter jets and nearly 80 modernization kits for its existing warplanes.' On October 17, Turkish President Erdogan told reporters that the United States ‘has proposed the sale of a batch of F-16 fighter jets' but the reported sale has yet to be confirmed. We have noted that your Department has declined to answer questions about the LOR, citing policy of not commenting before Congress has been notified of the LOR. We believe that the widespread reporting on Turkey's request, as well as President Erdogan's own statements, provide us sufficient basis to declare our opposition to this potential sale." "We share your goal of a Turkey that is rooted to the West, but we will not achieve that goal if the Erdogan government escapes accountability for violating U.S. law and the standards of the NATO alliance," continued the lawmakers. "We request a formal notification of any Turkish LOR, the specifics of such an LOR, the Administration's position on such an LOR, and responses to our specific objections. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter, and we look forward to your response." The effort to prevent the sale of F-16s to Turkey is supported by the Hellenic American Leadership Council, the Armenian National Committee of America, the American Friends of Kurdistan, the Hindu American Foundation, the Middle East Forum, the American Jewish Committee, PSEKA, the American Hellenic Institute, the Coordinated Effort of… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-wasserman-schultz-hold-florida-delegation-meeting-water-quality Buchanan, Wasserman Schultz Hold Florida Delegation Meeting on Water Quality 2021-11-02 2021 2021-11 Republican House FL Vern Buchanan B001260 buchanan.house.gov buchanan https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Reps. Vern Buchanan and Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla., today hosted the first official meeting of Florida’s 29-member congressional delegation since February 2020. The bipartisan delegation discussed some of the most pressing water quality issues affecting the Sunshine State, including harmful algal blooms, the Everglades, offshore drilling and wildlife conservation. Buchanan and Wasserman Schultz were joined by U.S. Reps. Gus Bilirakis, Kathy Castor, Mario Diaz-Balart, Neal Dunn, Lois Frankel, Scott Franklin, Carlos Gimenez, Brian Mast, Stephanie Murphy, John Rutherford, Darren Soto and Michael Waltz. “Florida’s oceans and pristine waterways are essential to our state’s economy and way of life,” said Buchanan. “I appreciate our distinguished panelists for their participation and thoughtful insight into water quality issues and for their suggestions about how we can work together as a delegation to combat some of the challenges we’re facing.” The members began the meeting with a moment of silence in memory of the late Rep. Alcee Hastings, former co-chair of the Florida delegation with Buchanan. Hastings tragically lost his battle with cancer earlier this year. [[{"fid":"1286","view_mode":"teaser","fields":{"class":"media-element file-teaser","data-delta":"1","format":"teaser","field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]":false},"link_text":"see more","type":"media","field_deltas":{"1":{"class":"media-element file-teaser","data-delta":"1","format":"teaser","field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]":false}},"attributes":{"class":"media-element file-teaser","data-delta":"1"}}]] The Florida delegation heard from a diverse panel of subject matter experts including Dr. Michael P. Crosby, president and CEO of Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota. Buchanan has worked with Dr. Crosby on water quality issues for many years and personally invited him to speak at today’s meeting. During his testimony, Dr. Crosby stressed the need for a new science-based seagrass restoration project. Seagra… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bilirakis-commemorates-oxi-day Congressman Bilirakis Commemorates Oxi Day 2021-10-28 2021 2021-10 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper "Today we celebrate the fact that 81 years ago Greece stood up against the powers of evil by replying "OXI!" or "NO!" to Fascist subjugation. The Greek people could not idly stand by and allow the evils of Fascism to consume Europe. Greece decided to fight for democracy, liberty, and justice, or otherwise see these treasured virtues—originally fostered in Ancient Greece—extinguished under the darkness of Fascism. As Greek Americans, we remember the bravery of our fellow Greeks and we remain committed to protecting these same values," said Congressman Bilirakis. Click here to watch the Congressman's remarks on this important subject. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=204 Congressman Dunn Fights for Increased Access to T-Cell Immunity Testing and Research 2021-10-28 2021 2021-10 Republican House FL Neal P. Dunn D000628 dunn.house.gov dunn https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 scraper Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (Florida-02) recently introduced the COVID-19 Access to Testing and Support for Immune Response Research Act of 2021 (H.R. 5745), a bill that would increase access to T-cell immunity testing. H.R. 5745 directs the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to coordinate scientific and clinical research related to the cellular immune response to COVID-19. The bill also directs the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to cover T-cell immunity tests. “We have overwhelming scientific evidence indicating that prior infection with SARS-CoV-2 does result in substantial immunity. The Biden Administration, CDC, CMS, and NIH have refused to embrace this invaluable evidence and continue to push unnecessary mandates,” said Congressman Dunn. “This should not be a partisan issue. If we are to truly ‘follow the science,’ it’s time to acknowledge the evidence and increase access to immunity testing while also continuing to encourage vaccinations among those who do not have natural immunity.” In addition to being an advocate for the COVID-19 vaccine, Congressman Dunn has been a strong voice in the fight for recognizing T-cell and infection mediated immunity. Most recently, Congressman Dunn penned a letter to CMS encouraging them to cover T-Cell immunity tests. Additionally, the congressman joined Congressman Daniel Webster (Florida-11) and colleagues in a letter to the White House and CDC urging them to recognize the overwhelming data and evidence that COVID-19 natural immunity confers protection at least equal to that from vaccination. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-seeks-clarity-illegal-immigrants-coming-jacksonville Rutherford Seeks Clarity on Illegal Immigrants Coming to Jacksonville 2021-10-28 2021 2021-10 Republican House FL John H. Rutherford R000609 rutherford.house.gov rutherford https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Rutherford (FL-04) led a letter with 51 congressional colleagues to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. Rutherford is seeking answers regarding chartered flights of illegal immigrants landing in Jacksonville, Florida. The full text of the letter is below: "Dear Secretary Mayorkas and Secretary Becerra, We are deeply concerned by reports of flights with illegal immigrants being flown from the southwest border to communities across the country with no notification. The lack of transparency from the Biden Administration is unacceptable. Since January, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has encountered 1.5 million migrants at our southwest border. This humanitarian and national security crisis has stretched our immigration system to a breaking point. Border Patrol agents work day and night to process large groups of illegal immigrants crossing our border, and the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) has taken in over 13,000 unaccompanied minors (UAC) every month for the last seven months. In this year alone, over 640,000 people have been processed under Title 8 and are awaiting immigration proceedings in the United States, which could take years. As people are relocated from the border to the interior of the country while they await proceedings, the Administration must be transparent with state and local agencies about how many illegal immigrants are being moved into their communities. We are closely following recent news reports that the Biden Administration is chartering flights to transport illegal immigrants to New York and Jacksonville, Florida. However, this administration has not confirmed how many of these flights have taken place, who is on these flights, and where they are going. In an effort to better understand the current situation, we ask for your prompt reply to the below questions: · What agencies are moving illegal immigrants from the border to the interior… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-announces-us-service-academy-nominees-0/ Steube Announces U.S. Service Academy Nominees 2021-10-28 2021 2021-10 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Announces U.S. Service Academy Nominees WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced the following students’ nominations into the four United States Service Academies. “It is a true honor to nominate 18 highly talented young Americans to attend our nation’s service academies,” Steube said. “Our community would be lucky to have any of these students representing us in service of our country.” You can learn more about the service academy process here. Charlotte County Carl Rambo of Charlotte High School – United States Military Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy Christian Kreegel of Charlotte High School — United States Military Academy, United States Naval Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy Iker Perez-Calderon of Lemon Bay High School — United States Air Force Academy, United States Naval Academy Travis Hicks of Florida Southwestern High School — United States Naval Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy Highlands County Ashley Bible of Sebring High School — United States Air Force Academy Polk County Andrew Gurrero of George Jenkins High School — United States Naval Academy Ashlyn Schober of Bartow High School — United States Military Academy, United States Naval Academy Sarasota County Anya Kratz of Venice High School — United States Merchant Marine Academy Gavin Edwards of Sarasota Military Academy — United States Naval Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy Gregory Heenan of Venice High School — United States Air Force Academy Isabella Evans of Sarasota Military Academy — United States Naval Academy, United States Merchant Marine Academy John Busha of USAFA Preparatory School — United States Air Force Academy Joseph Oliver of Pine View High School — United States Military Academy Kaytlyn Paul of Venice High School — United States Air Force Academy, United States Naval Academy Lucca Iacopetti of Venice High School — United States Air Force Academy, United States Naval Academy Michael Raney Jr. of Venice High Schoo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-denounces-bidens-self-made-energy-crisis Bilirakis Denounces Biden’s Self-Made Energy Crisis 2021-10-27 2021 2021-10 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC:President Biden's radical policies have stymied America's energy independence and created a crisis. The national average price for a gallon of gas has climbed to its highest level since 2014 and is 66% higher than this time last year. Worse yet, home heating costs are projected to rise by as much as 54% for some American households this winter. "This is not a fluke," stated Congressman Gus Bilirakis, "But rather, a deliberate consequence resulting from the disastrous policies and actions of the Biden Administration." On his first day in office, President Biden destroyed 11,000 American jobs by canceling the Keystone Pipeline. He also paused new domestic oil and gas leases, which will cost 1 million American jobs and decrease GDP by $700 billion. These actions put America's energy security at risk, as U.S. oil imports from foreign sources are now expected to increase by 2 million barrels a day. In fact, through 2030, the U.S. is now expected to spend $500 billion more on energy from foreign suppliers. Instead of allowing American companies to increase domestic production and hire more U.S. workers, President Biden has embarrassed the U.S. by pleading with OPEC and Russia to increase global output to ease rising fuel prices. "The catastrophic path this administration has set us on must be reversed now! America needs to once again be in the driver's seat when it comes to our energy production. Just one year ago when fuel prices were the lowest they'd been in years, we were a net exporter of energy. The greatest nation on the face of the earth should never have to rely on Saudi Arabia or other nations hostile to us. We can unleash American energy, create American jobs, and lower prices at the pump by implementing the pro-growth, common sense polices of the previous administration," Bilirakis noted. Instead of reversing course, Democrats in Congress are now doubling down on these crisis-causing strategies by pushing a multi-trillion dollar spending package, which includes a tax hike on fuel. The "Heat … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-stands-up-for-second-amendment-opposes-red-flag-laws/ Steube Stands Up for Second Amendment, Opposes Red Flag Laws 2021-10-27 2021 2021-10 Republican House FL W. Gregory Steube S001214 steube.house.gov steube https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ scraper Steube Stands Up for Second Amendment, Opposes Red Flag Laws WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today opposed H.R. 2377, the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, in the House Judiciary Committee. This legislation imposes unconstitutional red flag laws, allowing an individual to petition a court to have an individual’s firearms and ammunition confiscated without alleging any criminal activity. “Red flag laws do nothing to prevent crime, and implementing them unconstitutionally strips law-abiding citizens of their firearms,” Steube said. “I will never support any legislation that enables the government to trample on our Second Amendment rights.” According to a 2018 study, “red flag laws had no significant effect on murder, suicide, the number of people killed in mass public shootings, robbery, aggravated assault, or burglary. These laws apparently do not save lives.” Steube has been a strong defender of the Second Amendment and opposed red flag laws during his time in the Florida legislature. Earlier this Congress, Steube voted against House Democrat’s gun-grabbing bills, H.R. 8 and H.R. 1446. H.R. 8 sought to impose unnecessary and redundant background checks that already occur on all gun sales, and H.R. 1446 could allow the FBI to delay firearm transfers indefinitely. The full text of the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act can be found here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F197D982-C179-4221-A7B8-BE18C28F0ABE Rep. Daniel Webster & Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Communities Prepare for and Respond to Disasters 2021-10-27 2021 2021-10 Republican House FL Daniel Webster W000806 webster.house.gov webster https://webster.house.gov/press-releases scraper Webster & Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Communities Prepare for and Respond to Disasters Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) along with Chair of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Ranking Member Sam Graves (R-MO), and Chair of the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Dina Titus (D-NV) today introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen disaster mitigation and resilience programs administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The Resilient Assistance for Mitigation for Environmentally Resilient Infrastructure and Construction by Americans Act, or Resilient AMERICA Act, will: Return unspent funds from the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF), which ensures that these expiring and unspent funds will still help our communities prepare for and respond to disasters. Double the funding stream dedicated to FEMA's Pre-Disaster Mitigation program. Extend eligibility for Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) to include private non-profits (PNPs), which ultimately will reduce the impact and damage from a disaster. Expand the reach of the post-disaster Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) to prevent utility outages in the face of extreme wildfire, wind, tsunami, and ice events. Fund residential resilience retrofit block grants to states, tribes, and territories to strengthen homes for maximum protection and safety. "Florida is no stranger to natural disasters. Our communities face unique challenges when it comes to mitigation and maintaining resilient infrastructure. The Resilient AMERICA Act builds upon reforms and lessons learned to ensure smarter funding for pre-disaster mitigation. By investing in common sense mitigation activities, this bill will save taxpayer money, protect our communities by proactively mitigating risk, and saving lives," Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Subcommittee Ranking Member Web… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-fighting-protect-students-first-amendment-rights Bilirakis Fighting to Protect Students’ First Amendment Rights 2021-10-26 2021 2021-10 Republican House FL Gus M. Bilirakis B001257 bilirakis.house.gov bilirakis https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases scraper Washington, DC: Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) is proud to join his colleagues on the Congressional Campus Free Speech Caucus by becoming a member of this important group. Together, the Caucus will work to ensure all students have the freedom to express their points of view without fear of retribution by university leadership, professors, or fellow students. Bilirakis also recently joined several colleagues in cosponsoring H.R. 4007, the Campus Free Speech Restoration Act, which will help ensure that the First Amendment is protected on all university campuses. "In Florida, our local school boards and Legislature have worked tirelessly to protect our children from woke progressive indoctrination; however, college campuses have long been a breeding ground for this type of propaganda, and the situation has only gotten worse in recent years," said Bilirakis. "Now, more than ever, it is important that our leaders stand up and protect the fundamental rights protected under the First Amendment." 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T20:24:51Z

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