Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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3,441 rows where state = "FL" and year = 2020 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 |
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| https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-releases-report-highlighting-wins-central-florida-116th-congress | Soto Releases Report Highlighting Wins for Central Florida in the 116th Congress | 2020-12-31 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Darren Soto | S001200 | soto.house.gov | soto | https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | KISSIMMEE, FL – Today, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) released a report highlighting his community and legislative accomplishments during the 116th Congress. "It's been a busy two years fighting for the issues that matter most to Central Florida's families," said Congressman Soto. "For many in Florida and across the country, 2020 has been an incredibly challenging year. We mourned the loss of over 21,000 Floridians who were taken by the deadly coronavirus. We prayed for the health and safety of our loved ones, neighbors and healthcare workers. We saw business after business forced to close for public safety concerns and suffer the devastating economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through it all, we did our best to step up during this crisis and serve our constituents. Going forward, I will work with the Biden Administration to ensure everyone in Central Florida has access to the COVID-19 vaccine and that our community builds back better than before. We are honored to have served the constituents of Florida's 9th Congressional District during the 116th Congress, and we look forward to continuing our commitment to deliver results for Central Florida." Over the course of 116th Congress, Congressman Soto held 100 town halls and roundtables, attended hundreds of community events, sent thousands of correspondence to constituents, helped over a thousand constituents with casework, secured billions of dollars for Central Florida, and passed numerous bills, policy amendments and appropriations requests into law. In the 117th Congress, Rep. Soto will continue to serve on the powerful Energy and Commerce Committee to fight for a strong pandemic response, higher-paying jobs and to protect our environment. He will also continue to serve on Natural Resources Committee to pursue his environmental efforts, work with Florida's tribes and bring Puerto Rico back to prosperity. In addition, he will serve as Chair of the Future Forum Caucus to assist the House Democratic Caucus to engage young people, and promote issues affe… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/el-senador-rick-scott-aplaude-la-distribucion-de-casi-20-millones-de-dosis-de-vacunas-los-estados | El Senador Rick Scott aplaude la distribución de casi 20 millones de dosis de vacunas a los estados | 2020-12-31 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Rick Scott | S001217 | www.rickscott.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. El Senador Rick Scott hizo hoy la siguiente declaracin aplaudiendo el esfuerzo del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de distribuir casi 20 millones de dosis de vacunas a los estados en solo cuatro semanas. A la Florida se le habrn asignado 1.28 millones de dosis de vacunas para la prxima semana. 175,000 floridanos recibieron la primera dosis de la vacuna al 30 de diciembre, segn inform el Departamento de Salud de la Florida. En noviembre, el Senador Scott escribi una carta al secretario del HHS, Alex Azar, solicitando informacin sobre los planes de los estados para asegurar una distribucin de vacunas rpida, confiable y equitativa. Una planificacin y coordinacin detallada en todos los niveles de gobierno es necesaria para asegurar que los estadounidenses reciban la vacuna de manera segura, eficiente y sin demoras. El Senador Rick Scott dijo: Estoy orgulloso del arduo trabajo de tantos en la Administracin para desarrollar y distribuir rpidamente esta vacuna a los estados. El HHS le ha enviado a nuestros estados millones de dosis de vacunas este mes. La prioridad ahora debe ser asegurarnos de que las personas mayores y las poblaciones en riesgo, as como nuestros trabajadores de la salud, tengan acceso a la vacuna primero. Es por eso que mi equipo y yo tomamos la decisin de esperar para recibir la vacuna en el momento apropiado, y he pedido que la asignacin de mi oficina se d a las poblaciones vulnerables que ms necesitan la vacuna. No tendremos xito hasta que todos los que quieran una vacuna puedan recibirla. Todos los estados necesitan un proceso ordenado y transparente para sacar estas vacunas, y deben hacerlo ya. No hay excusas. " ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-urges-ftc-investigation-zooms-relationship-communist-china | Sen. Rick Scott Urges FTC Investigation into Zoom’s Relationship with Communist China | 2020-12-31 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Rick Scott | S001217 | www.rickscott.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter urging the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to further investigate Zoom's relationship to Communist China and the risks it poses to Americans' security. This letter follows the Department of Justice's recent announcement that a former Zoom executive had been charged for coordinating with the Communist Party of China to target U.S.-based dissidents and disrupt video meetings commemorating the June 4, 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre. Read the Senator's letter HERE or below. December 30, 2020 Joseph J. Simons Chairman Federal Trade Commission 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20580 Dear Chairman Simons: As a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, I write today to urgently request a full investigation into Communist China's growing influence and interference in social telecommunications technology, including companies like Zoom, and what more can be done to protect Americans' personal identifying information. Earlier this month, the United States Department of Justice revealed that a former Zoom executive, Xinjiang Jin, had been charged for coordinating with the Communist Party of China (CCP) to target U.S.-based dissidents and disrupt video meetings commemorating the June 4, 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre. This is just the latest example of how Communist China uses personal identifying data collected by tech companies with a significant presence in China against American citizens. Communist China's efforts to silence anyone who dares to oppose the CCP is shameful, and it's even more alarming that it happened right here in the United States. This cannot be tolerated. For years, the CCP has done everything possible to become the dominant world power. Communist China has long been accused of forced technology transfers, data localization, and spying on U.S. citizens using Chinese-based companies like TikTok and WeChat, which are obligated by law to hand over data to the CCP. The American people deserve to know exactly how… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/senator-rick-scott-applauds-distribution-nearly-20-million-vaccine-doses-states | Senator Rick Scott Applauds the Distribution of Nearly 20 Million Vaccine Doses to States | 2020-12-31 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Rick Scott | S001217 | www.rickscott.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott released the below statement applauding the effort by Health and Human Services to get nearly 20 million doses of vaccines to states in four weeks. Florida will have been allocated 1.28 million doses of the vaccines by the end of next week. 175,000 Floridians received the first dose of the vaccine as of December 30, as reported by the Florida Department of Health. In November, Senator Scott wrote a letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar requesting information on the states' plans for fast, reliable and equitable vaccine distribution. Detailed planning and coordination at every level of government will be required to get the vaccine to Americans safely and efficiently without unnecessary delays. Senator Rick Scottsaid, I'm proud of the hard work by so many in the Administration to develop and quickly distribute this vaccine to the states. HHS has sent our states millions of doses of vaccines this month. The priority now must be to make sure the elderly and at-risk populations, as well as our healthcare workers, have access to thevaccinefirst. That's why my staff and I made the decision to wait to get thevaccineat the appropriate time, and I've asked that my office's allotment be given to vulnerable populations that need thevaccinemost. We aren't successful until everyone who wants a vaccine can get one. Everystate needs an orderly, transparent process for getting these vaccines out, and they need to do it now. There is no excuse. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403469 | Rep. Castor Announces $1.4M to Tampa Residents through 2020 Constituent Services, $1.5B Secured in Federal Grants, $2.7B in PPP Assistance | 2020-12-30 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Kathy Castor | C001066 | castor.house.gov | castor | https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) announced today her office worked to deliver nearly $1.6 million to veterans, seniors, small businesses and families in 2020; almost $1.5 billion in federal grants to create jobs, invest in education and infrastructure, mitigate impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and support the important work of local partners; and $2.7 billion in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for Tampa businesses. “Every day, my Tampa constituent services team, Tery Sanchez, Steven Angotti, Tania Fernandez and Damaris Gonzalez – with the help of the entire Castor Team – work tirelessly to cut through red tape and bureaucracy on behalf of families and neighbors across the Tampa area. During the COVID-19 pandemic, their expertise has been critical to ensuring that veterans receive the benefits they have earned and to guarantee that survival stimulus payments, Social Security, Medicare are delivered on time. Due to the unprecedented challenge accessing Florida’s flawed unemployment system, I am especially grateful for their efforts in coordinating with local and state representatives to ensure that everyone who needs support is connected to every available resource. “My team tackles complex cases and works diligently with agencies and non-profit partners to serve all of our neighbors. This year we handled more than 1,800 individual cases and recovered nearly $1.6 million in federal benefits. Tampa families are facing unique and time-sensitive issues due to the coronavirus, and my team’s top priority remains serving our neighbors with respect and care.” Grants In FY2020, Florida’s 14th Congressional District in Tampa and Hillsborough County received 727 grant awards totaling $1,497,650,722. “2020 brought unprecedented challenges to our community as workers in vital industries such as tourism, travel and hospitality took a hit from the virus and our frontline medical workers worked overtime to serve those who contracted COVID-19. The $1.5 billion in grant monies that came to Tampa this year have been a lif… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2555 | Wasserman Schultz on Reauthorization, Increased Funding of the EARLY Act | 2020-12-30 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Debbie Wasserman Schultz | W000797 | wassermanschultz.house.gov | wassermanschultz | https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Washington DC – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) released the following statement after her legislation, the Education and Awareness Requires Learning Young Act, or EARLY Act Reauthorization of 2020, became law this week with the President’s signing of the larger government spending and COVID-19 relief package: “For young women and those of certain ethnic and racial populations, breast cancer can be even more deadly because it is often more aggressive and too frequently caught later than it should be. The EARLY Act of 2020, which reauthorizes the law that I sponsored and passed in 2010 after overcoming my own battle with breast cancer, increases funding and ensures that young women’s breast health awareness, education and grant programs are funded through the EARLY Act at an increased level of $9 million annually from 2022 through 2026. This vital funding will expand the effective Bring Your Brave and Health Care Provider education and awareness programs implemented by the Centers for Disease Control and fund additional grants to young women’s and higher risk women’s breast cancer organizations. By reauthorizing the EARLY Act, we continue the vital work of educating young and higher risk women about their breast health and help focus their attention to this deadly disease. Among other things, this legislation will fund grants and support initiatives educate and provide help to young and high-risk women, collect family histories and educate health care providers. I know first-hand this law and funding is needed, because I was a young woman who was unaware of my risk and after my breast cancer diagnosis at 41, was diagnosed with the BRCA2 gene mutation. Today, I am still cancer-free because my cancer and my genetic risk were caught early and I am committed to helping high risk and young women acquire the knowledge and resources they need to not just survive, but thrive. The earlier that cancer cases are identified, the better the chances of survival. That is just what the EARLY Act will continue to do: s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://lawson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-lawson-returns-more-than-24-million-to-north-florida-families | Rep. Lawson Returns More than $2.4 Million to North Florida Families | 2020-12-29 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Al Lawson | L000586 | lawson.house.gov | legacy | December 29, 2020 Rep. Lawson Returns More than $2.4 Million to North Florida Families WASHINGTON DC U.S. Rep. Al Lawson (FL-05) announced that this year, his office has helped to return more than $2.4 million owed to the citizens of Florida's Fifth Congressional from the federal government. Since January 2020, his office worked to close more than 200 cases and ensured that North Florida residents receive their long-awaited financial reimbursement from several federal agencies. A few of the top agencies include the Social Security Administration, Internal Revenue Service, FEMA and Veterans Affairs. There are many reasons as to why a person's case may become stagnant, but my team and I have worked hard to break the federal logjam and help citizens of our community get their cases reactivated, back on track or even expedited, Rep. Lawson said. Jacksonville native Brian Salter was involuntarily separated from his job with the Navy after 14 years of service. He reached out to Rep. Lawson's office because after a year without separation pay, he was still not being helped. His staff placed multiple inquiries to the Navy, to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), and the Board of Corrections, and were able to get Salter's case reviewed and approved quickly. Salters was awarded 14 years' worth of back separation pay. Since I was involuntarily separated with an honorable discharge, I was entitled to Involuntary Separation Pay, Salter said. I was supposed to receive those funds immediately within a week or two after separation from active duty service. I turned to Congressman Al Lawson for help. Sherry, my caseworker, fought for me for 18 months. I don't think I would have been able to get this pay if it wasn't for her sheer tenacity and dedication to my case. I cannot express my gratitude enough. I am happy I turned to Congressman Lawson's office for help with my case. Individuals seeking help with a federal agency such as backlogged veterans' benefits, stalled tax refunds, issues with social s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases-es?ContentRecord_id=64671013-E220-4E46-B573-5F1D2E0668C4 | Rubio: Apoyo Los Pagos de $2000 Dlares a Los Necesitados | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Sala de Prensa Inicio Sala de Prensa Sala de Prensa Miami, FL El senador estadounidense Marco Rubio (R-FL) emiti el siguiente comunicado sobre su apoyo de aumentar el monto del Pago de Alivio por el Impacto Econmico (EIP, por sus siglas en ingls) a los estadounidenses de $600 dlares a $2,000 dlares:"Estoy de acuerdo con el presidente en que millones de familias de la clase trabajadora necesitan urgentemente ayuda adicional, razn por la cual apoyo el monto de $2,000 dlares en pagos directos a los estadounidenses que luchan durante la pandemia, Rubio dijo. Por meses, los republicanos intentaron aprobar un alivio adicional para los trabajadores, las familias y los pequeos comercios, solo para ser rechazados por los demcratas en todo momento. No podemos olvidar que hace meses la presidenta Pelosi y los demcratas rechazaron la oferta anterior de la Administracin Trump de $1,200 dlares por adulto y $1,000 dlares por nio. Afortunadamente, por fin, Pelosi deja de retener a las familias trabajadoras como sus rehenes".Comparto la preocupacin de muchos de mis colegas sobre los efectos a largo plazo del gasto adicional, pero no podemos ignorar el hecho que millones de familias de la clase trabajadora en todo EE.UU. todava necesitan ayuda con urgencia, continu Rubio. "El Congreso debera aprobar rpidamente una legislacin para aumentar los pagos directos a los estadounidenses a $2,000 dlares"."Tambin estoy listo para trabajar con mis colegas para realizar cambios muy necesarios a la Seccin 230 y tomar medidas para asegurarnos que el pueblo estadounidense pueda volver a tener confianza en nuestras elecciones", concluy Rubio.Rubio introducir una legislacin para mantener las protecciones de la … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=2ED5EDD7-1C6B-4041-B86B-96348A28D221 | Rubio Urges Department of the Interior to Address Supply Chain Reliance on Rare Earth Minerals From China | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) urged U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary David Bernhardt to take action addressing China's domination of the rare earth element supply chain in response to President Trump's September 30, 2020 Executive Order, Addressing the Threat to the Domestic Supply Chain from Reliance on Critical Minerals from Foreign Adversaries.In addition to Rubio, Representatives Jason Smith (R-MO), Paul Gosar (R-AZ), David McKinley (R-WV), Chris Stewart (R-UT), and Pete Stauber (R-MN) signed the letter.The President's Executive Order rightly recognizes that the United States now imports more than 80 percent of our rare earth elements (REE) from China, a marked shift from an earlier era in which the United States produced more REE than any other nation in the world, the lawmakers wrote. The United States has some of the highest quality and abundant rare earth element deposits in the world. However, China has intentionally underpriced usable REE metals to extinguish global competition in the REE metallurgy sector. China's strategy ensures that any REE ores mined and processed in the United States, or elsewhere, must be sent to China to be made into usable metals and materials. The President's Order recognizes this dynamic, and the great harm that this dependence on China for processing capacity does to American national security and economic resilience.The full text of the letter is below.Dear Secretary Bernhardt:We write to express our shared concern about America's dangerous reliance on foreign sources for critical minerals. We welcome the President's September 30, 2020, Executive Order Addressing the Threat to the Domestic Supply Chain from Reliance on Critical Min… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F2E570A9-9BF7-445E-B859-C2D3EF4EFD82 | English/ Espaol: Rubio: I Support $2000 Payments to Americans in Need | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Miami, FL U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement regarding his support for increasing the amount of Economic Impact Payments (EIP) to Americans in need from $600 to $2,000:I agree with the President that millions of working class families are in dire need of additional relief, which is why I support $2,000 in direct payments to Americans struggling due to the pandemic, Rubio said. For months, Republicans tried to pass additional relief for workers, families, and small businesses only to be rejected by Democrats at every turn. Remember, months ago Speaker Pelosi and Democrats rejected the Administration's previous offer of $1,200 per adult and $1,000 per child. Thankfully, she's finally stopped holding working families hostage.I share many of my colleagues' concern about the long-term effects of additional spending, but we cannot ignore the fact that millions of working class families across the nation are still in dire need of relief, Rubio continued. Congress should quickly pass legislation to increase direct payments to Americans to $2,000.I also stand ready to work with my colleagues to make much-needed changes to Section 230 and take steps to ensure the American people can once again have confidence in our elections, Rubio concluded.Rubio will introduce legislation to maintain Section 230 protections for small businesses and companies that protect free speech, but remove that blanket immunity for Big Tech companies that engage in certain moderation, selective distribution, or content development activities.In June 2020, Rubio, along with Senators Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Josh Hawley (R-MO) requested that the Federal Communication Commissi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://crist.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2232 | Crist Votes to Increase Stimulus Checks to $2,000 | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Charlie Crist | C001111 | crist.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC U.S. Representative Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) released a statement following House passage of the CASH Act (H.R.9051), legislation to increase the Economic Impact Payments, also known as stimulus checks,' from $600 to $2000, which were included in the new COVID relief law signed yesterday by the President. Last week, Crist voted for the bipartisan $900 billion coronavirus relief package to support American families and businesses struggling at the hands of the pandemic. At the time, Crist said, while this compromise could certainly do more to help struggling families and small businesses, it remains one of the largest relief packages in American history second only to the CARES Act. Crist has been calling for more stimulus checks sinceApril. Today, the People's House put the People first. Increasing the stimulus checks to $2,000 will provide a huge boost to people struggling, and help the economy recover more quickly from the pandemic, saidCongressman Crist. I am honored to be able to travel back to Washington to cast my vote for the people of Pinellas. With the support of President Trump and a bipartisan vote in the House, I am hopeful that Senate Republicans will do the right thing in delivering real relief to families in need. Let's get this done! | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://crist.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2233 | Crist Statement on House Veto Override of NDAA | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Charlie Crist | C001111 | crist.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC U.S. Representative Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) released a statement following the House vote to override the President's veto of H.R. 6395, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2021. The $732 billion national defense bill passed both the House and Senate earlier this month with an overwhelming veto-proof margin. The veto override vote passed today by a vote of 322-87. Trump's veto of the defense bill comes following reports of an unprecedented Russian cyberattack on the U.S. government and businesses, further endangering our national defense and readiness while simultaneously undermining the wellbeing of those serving our nation in uniform. America has passed a defense bill for 59 consecutive years, and this year will continue that streak as the House has spoken with an overwhelming, bipartisan voice, overriding the President's veto, said Congressman Crist. This strongly bipartisan defense bill puts our country, our national defense, and our troops, first. Congressman Crist has been a vocal supporter of this year's NDAA, fighting for inclusion of Crist-championed provisions putting local veterans, servicemembers and our military readiness first, such as: Protecting the hard-earned benefits of Coast Guard retirees from future government shutdowns through Crist's Coast Guard Retirement Parity Act; Helping veterans find jobs quicker after their service by studying the transferability of military certifications to civilian life; Exposing the unfair practice of using family medical records to deny enlistees from military families when they try to join the military as adults; Holding the pentagon accountable for delivering on the Crist effort to prepare and protect MacDill and other bases from sea level rise and climate change. The legislation also includes important policy to: Confront our adversaries like Russia and China by supporting our alliances, fully funding the European Deterrence Initiative, investigating… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://steube.house.gov/media/press-releases/steube-opposes-unnecessary-redistribution-wealth-covid-relief-legislation | Steube Opposes Unnecessary Redistribution of Wealth in COVID Relief Legislation | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Greg Steube | S001214 | steube.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today voted against H.R. 9051, the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help Act of 2020. We understand the economic hardship inflicted by COVID-19, but Americans don't need inadequate stimulus checks and forced government dependency to get them back on their feet, Steube said. Rather than prolonging economic suffering with failing, irresponsible legislation, our country needs to follow the lead of states like Florida and give Americans incentives and the opportunity to return to their jobs and normal lives. This legislation would raise the direct stimulus payments previously passed in COVID-19 relief legislation from $600 to $2,000. However, throughout the pandemic, Congress has already authorized $4.1 trillion in aid to offset the costly and non-scientific lockdown measures. This is coupled with the new debt all Americans have incurred due to historic fiscal irresponsibility. At current spending levels, Congress has already created $2.2 trillion in new debt, which means $18,000 in government debt per household. Stimulus checks have wastefully spent hard earned taxpayer dollars on nearly 150 million Americans who have been employed despite the COVID-19 pandemic. For those who are unemployed or have been forced to shut down their businesses, recent stimulus checks have been insufficient for living wages. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-opposes-unnecessary-redistribution-of-wealth-in-covid-relief-legislation/ | Steube Opposes Unnecessary Redistribution of Wealth in COVID Relief Legislation | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | W. Gregory Steube | S001214 | steube.house.gov | steube | https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ | scraper | Steube Opposes Unnecessary Redistribution of Wealth in COVID Relief Legislation WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today voted against H.R. 9051, the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help Act of 2020. “We understand the economic hardship inflicted by COVID-19, but Americans don’t need inadequate stimulus checks and forced government dependency to get them back on their feet,” Steube said. “Rather than prolonging economic suffering with failing, irresponsible legislation, our country needs to follow the lead of states like Florida and give Americans incentives and the opportunity to return to their jobs and normal lives.” This legislation would raise the direct stimulus payments previously passed in COVID-19 relief legislation from $600 to $2,000. However, throughout the pandemic, Congress has already authorized $4.1 trillion in aid to offset the costly and non-scientific lockdown measures. This is coupled with the new debt all Americans have incurred due to historic fiscal irresponsibility. At current spending levels, Congress has already created $2.2 trillion in new debt, which means $18,000 in government debt per household. Stimulus checks have wastefully spent hard earned taxpayer dollars on nearly 150 million Americans who have been employed despite the COVID-19 pandemic. For those who are unemployed or have been forced to shut down their businesses, recent stimulus checks have been insufficient for living wages. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2554 | Wasserman Schultz on CASH Act Passage, Trump Veto Override | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Debbie Wasserman Schultz | W000797 | wassermanschultz.house.gov | wassermanschultz | https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Washington DC – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) issues the following statement after this evening’s House vote to pass the CASH Act and to override President Trump’s veto of the National Defense Authorization Act: “Millions of struggling Americans are counting on Congress to deliver the level of assistance that this historic health and economic crisis demands, and I was proud to vote for the CASH Act, which would provide that vital, more robust $2,000 lifeline. There is so much more that needs to be done and Democrats will continue to champion the assistance that families and our states and local communities need, once a new Congress and President take office. I’m proud that the House did its job tonight. Now it’s up to Senators to finish the job and vote for the kind of real relief that families need at this dark, trying time in our history. I am also pleased that nearly every House Democrat banded together with a majority of Republicans to override President Trump’s irresponsible and cruel veto of the National Defense Authorization Act. For the President to prioritize honoring Confederate traitors over national security and a pay raise for our troops was reckless and repulsive. The improved housing, health and salary resources our servicemembers would receive in the NDAA should never have been endangered by Trump’s pathetic attempt to preserve the names on our military bases of those who fought to preserve slavery and betrayed America. It’s fitting this veto override honors those who would make the ultimate sacrifice to fashion a more perfect union today and tomorrow, and rejects the vestiges of those who once fought to destroy the United States of America.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://dunn.house.gov/2020/12/congressman-dunn-supports-the-military-with-veto-override | Congressman Dunn Supports the Military with Veto Override | 2020-12-24 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Neal Dunn | D000628 | dunn.house.gov | legacy | PANAMA CITY, FL Today, Representative Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02) issued the following statement ahead of a House vote to override the executive veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). On Monday, the House will vote to override the executive veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Following doctors' advice, who are currently treating me for issues related to my existing asthma and a case of pneumonia, I will not be traveling to Washington for that vote as my recovery continues. I fully support the NDAA bill. It is one of the most critical pieces of legislation that Congress must pass each year, supporting our men and women in uniform and the defense of our nation. This year's bill further cements the rebuild of Tyndall Air Force Base and secures its missions for decades to come while supporting the future growth of Naval Support Activity Panama City. For these reasons, I would vote to override the veto if conditions allowed me to be present. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=277 | Congressman Dunn Supports the Military with Veto Override | 2020-12-24 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Neal P. Dunn | D000628 | dunn.house.gov | dunn | https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 | scraper | PANAMA CITY, FL – Today, Representative Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02) issued the following statement ahead of a House vote to override the executive veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). “On Monday, the House will vote to override the executive veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Following doctors’ advice, who are currently treating me for issues related to my existing asthma and a case of pneumonia, I will not be traveling to Washington for that vote as my recovery continues. I fully support the NDAA bill. It is one of the most critical pieces of legislation that Congress must pass each year, supporting our men and women in uniform and the defense of our nation. This year’s bill further cements the rebuild of Tyndall Air Force Base and secures its missions for decades to come while supporting the future growth of Naval Support Activity Panama City. For these reasons, I would vote to override the veto if conditions allowed me to be present.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402901 | Deutch Bill Protecting Seniors with Alzheimer's, Dementia Signed into Law | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today, President Donald Trump signed into law the Promoting Alzheimer's Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act introduced by U.S. Representatives Ted Deutch (FL-22) and Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14) and Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), and Chuck Grassley (R-IA). The legislation directs the U.S. Department of Justice to develop best practices and training materials for assisting professionals law enforcement, firefighters, emergency personnel, social workers, court officials, and medical professionals who encounter and support people living with Alzheimer's and other dementia. This population is particularly vulnerable to scams as their condition makes it more difficult for them to communicate the crimes to law enforcement or to seek life-saving assistance from first responders. Particularly amid the coronavirus pandemic, having best practices will help first responders and other professionals effectively interact with people living with Alzheimer's and other dementia targeted by fraud and in need. "I'm proud that Congress acted to bring some assurance to the millions of Americans living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia and their families," Rep. Deutch said. "This Justice Department training program will help prepare first responders and other professionals in how to properly interact with this population. Whether a police officer is responding to an incident or mental health and medical professionals are treating patients, they will be better prepared with best practices for supporting people living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia." Too many of our seniors citizens, especially those with Alzheimer's and dementia, are at increased risk of falling victim to fraud and abuse, said Rep. Reschenthaler. I was proud to lead this bipartisan, bicameral effort to protect vulnerable members of our communities from exploitation by equipping first responders and caregivers with tools to prevent and respond to elder abuse. Thank you to President Trump for signing the Promoting Alzheim… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=12394498-DAA7-4B0B-98F1-1B31C5F1B0DB | Rubio Secures Key Provisions Related to China in Year-End Funding Package | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) continued to build upon his legislative record securing critical provisions and funding related to China in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 omnibus appropriations bill. Among the provisions were language from Rubio's bipartisan and bicameral Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (S.3744) that requires the Secretary of State to determine, within 90 days after enactment, whether the persecution of Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, and members of other Muslim minority groups in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) constitutes atrocities. Additionally, the package included Rubio's Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2019 (S.2539), telecommunications security funding to counter China's state-directed Huawei, and funding to counter malign Chinese influence.The 21st century will be defined by the U.S.-China relationship, and we must take action to address the imbalances in the relationship, as well as the systematic human rights abuses committed by the Chinese Communist Party, Rubio said. I am proud of the important work we've accomplished with both my Democrat and Republican colleagues, including the critical provisions that were included in the year-end funding bill, to hold the Chinese government and Communist Party accountable. Bringing reciprocity to our dealings with China and ending the crimes of the CCP is the geopolitical challenge of this century and is the responsibility of democracies worldwide. I look forward to building upon my record of enacting laws that do just that.As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Rubio secured a provision to prohibit any entity or owner of an entity in China, companies with PRC resid… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A02DB9FF-881F-42B9-8F34-89F33084A109 | WTAS: Key Rubio Provisions in COVID-19 Small Business Package Garner Praise | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases The U.S. Chamber applauds the work of Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship Chairman Marco Rubio and Ranking Member Ben Cardin to ensure struggling small business owners obtain the funds necessary to keep their teams employed and survive the pandemic, said Tom Sullivan, Vice President for Small Business Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The small business provisions in stimulus legislation awaiting the President's signature represent a truly bipartisan effort by Senate and House small business committees. The ability to break through partisan gridlock and provide aid to America's Main Street employers bodes well for an economic recovery in the new year.Small business owners and entrepreneurs desperately need capital and certainty right now, and the funding provisions in the relief package will help many of them tap into a pool of capital that will help to maintain jobs and bolster local economies, said Karen Kerrigan, President & CEO, SBE Council. We are grateful that PPP will resume with needed changes to provide small businesses with flexibility and support, additional capital for businesses that need it, and remove some of the uncertainties around PPP like deductibility of forgiven expenses.The action taken by Congress today will keep tens of thousands of restaurants from closing in the coming months, said Tom Ben, President & CEO of the National Restaurant Association. A second round of PPP, combined with unique enhancements for the restaurant sector, will provide critical access to capital.The legislation contains many of the provisions AHLA has advocated for, including a second round of Paycheck Protection Program loans, increasing the size of PPP loans to 3.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403468 | Rep. Castor Statement on President Trump Vetoing Bipartisan NDAA | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Kathy Castor | C001066 | castor.house.gov | castor | https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | In his latest callous, erratic decision, President Trump has vetoed the National Defense Authorization Act and nixed a 3 percent pay raise for military families at Christmas. Our military families at MacDill Air Force Base and around the world are the best and deserve the best. Vetoing these critical funds at the eleventh hour only hurts our troops and their families and endangers our national security. I will vote to override the president’s veto of this bipartisan legislation next week and remain committed to ensuring our service members and families at MacDill have the tools they need to carry out their missions and remain safe and healthy. Rep. Castor statement on NDAA passage (includes important priorities for MacDill Air Force Base and Tampa residents): https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403463 | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://crist.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2228 | Crist Calls on Congress to Overturn Presidential Veto of Defense Bill | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Charlie Crist | C001111 | crist.house.gov | legacy | Crist Calls on Congress to Overturn Presidential Veto of Defense Bill f t # e Washington, DC, December 23, 2020 Washington, DC U.S. Representative Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) released a statement calling on Congress to override President Trump's veto of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2021 as soon as possible. The $732 billion national defense bill which passed both the House and Senate earlier this month with an overwhelming veto-proof margin now requires one more 2/3 vote in both the House and Senate to make the bipartisan defense bill law. The United States Constitution was established in part to provide for the common defense. As the Representative from Florida's 13thCongressional District, I understand that my job is to do all I can to keep Pinellas families safe. That's why I was proud to join an overwhelming, bipartisan majority to pass this year's defense bill,said Rep. Crist. I struggle to make sense of why the Commander-in-Chief, in his final days in office, has taken this step which does not support our national defense or our troops during the holidays no less. It sends a dangerous message to our adversaries as our nation prepares for a presidential transition and grapples with the unprecedented Russian cyberattack on our government and our businesses. Congress must step up and override this veto for our troops, for our values, for our security, and for the people. The National Defense Authorization Act, which passed the House and the Senate earlier this month, includes: Confronting our adversaries like Russia and China by supporting our alliances, fully funding the European Deterrence Initiative, requiring reporting on Russian bounties on servicemembers being killed by terrorists, and authorizing a $2.2 billion Pacific Deterrence Init… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-diaz-balart-chabot-reschenthaler-spearhead-resolution-supporting | Reps. Diaz-Balart, Chabot, Reschenthaler Spearhead Resolution Supporting Free Trade with Taiwan | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | mariodiazbalart | https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –– Congressmen Mario Diaz-Balart, Steve Chabot (OH-1), and Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14) introduced H. Res. 1268, which expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should initiate negotiations to enter into a free trade agreement with Taiwan. This legislation is a critical step toward building a stronger diplomatic partnership with Taiwan, expanding economic growth and job creation through increased access to markets in the Indo-Pacific region, and countering the Chinese Communist Party's hostilities towards Taiwan. Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA), the author of the legislation, and 25 Senate Republicans introduced this resolution in the Senate. "Taiwan is a strong friend and democratic ally of the United States, and I support efforts to further strengthen that relationship with deepened economic ties,"said Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart."While the PRC continues to bully and threaten its neighbors, Taiwan has nonetheless thrived as an economic powerhouse and responsible partner on a variety of key priorities including public health, democracy promotion, and trade. Working toward a free trade agreement with Taiwan will strengthen this crucial relationship and enable Taiwan to better withstand the barrage of threats and hostility from the PRC." "As a longtime proponent of a U.S.-Taiwan free trade agreement, I am pleased to support this important legislation put forward by Congressman Reschenthaler,"said Congressman Chabot."Taiwan is one of our top trading partners, and consolidating our economic partnership will bring both economic and strategic benefits to both of our countries. Earlier this fall, President Tsai took bold action to address longstanding barriers to U.S. agricultural imports. It is critical that the United States Trade Representatives build on this gesture of goodwill before momentum is lost." "As a member of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, I am proud to introduce this critical legislation that supports expanding economic ties between the United States and … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://stephaniemurphy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1559 | President Signs into Law Murphy Bill to Strengthen Criminal Penalties for Adults Who Stalk Children | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Stephanie Murphy | M001202 | stephaniemurphy.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTONPresident Donald J. Trump signed into law a bipartisanbillauthored by U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy, D-Fla., alongside Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., and Senators Pat Toomey, R-Pa., and Bob Casey, D-Pa., to strengthen criminal penalties for adults who stalk or severely harass children, either online or in the community. TheCombat Online Predators Actpassed the Senate in October and the House passed it earlier this month. I'm proud to have worked with my colleagues to craft and pass legislation that will deter stalkers from harassing innocent children,said Murphy. As a mom, I know how important it is to protect our kids from dangerous criminals lurking online and in our communities. Now that the President has signed this bipartisan bill into law, those who commit this terrible crime should be prepared to face serious punishment for their actions. TheCombat Online PredatorsActwas inspired by the story of the Zezzo family of Bucks County, Pennsylvania whose teenage daughter was cyber-stalked by a friend's father on social media. Despite the stalking being sexual in nature, the then-51-year-old stalker pleaded guilty to only a misdemeanor stalking charge and was sentenced to probation and counseling. Three years later, the same stalker began making contact with the young girl again. This time, he was arrested in a sting by local police and sentenced to between 18 months and seven years in a state prison. Under current law, it is a federal crime for an individual to harass or intimidate another individual, in person or online, in a way that places them in fear of physical harm or causes them significant emotional distress. The maximum criminal penalty is 5 years in prison, and 10 years in prison if the defendant causes serious physical injury to the victim or uses a dangerous weapon. The Murphy-led bill will increase the maximum penalty by 5 years, to 10 years and 15 years respectively, when the defendant is an adult and the victim is under 18 years of age. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-first-priority-get-vaccine-vulnerable-populations-healthcare-workers | Sen. Rick Scott: First Priority is to Get Vaccine to Vulnerable Populations, Healthcare Workers | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Rick Scott | S001217 | www.rickscott.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after declining the offer by the Capitol Attending Physician to receive the vaccine for himself and select members of his staff. Senator Rick Scott said, I'm incredibly proud of the hard work by so many Americans that led to the development and distribution of the coronavirus vaccines this month. As we turn the corner on this pandemic, the priority must be to make sure the elderly and at-risk populations, as well as our healthcare workers, have access to the vaccine first. My staff and I will wait to get the vaccine at the appropriate time determined by our personal physicians. I've asked that my office's allotment be given to vulnerable populations that need the vaccine most. I served in the Navy and I learned that it's always important for leaders to put the troops first. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-introduces-stop-covid-19-act | Sen. Rick Scott Introduces STOP COVID-19 Act | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Rick Scott | S001217 | www.rickscott.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott introduced the Set Testing and Objectives Plan (STOP) COVID-19 Act to create a program for cities and counties to increase testing, contact tracing and transparency efforts in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Senator Rick Scott said, The distribution of the coronavirus vaccine is great news, but we still haven't beaten the coronavirus and we can't let our guard down. As infections continue across the nation, all levels of government must work together on transparent, efficient and measurable ways to contain the spread. The STOP COVID-19 Act creates a program for cities and counties, using metrics-based incentives, to ensure communities are doing everything possible to keep residents safe. The program will be data-focused, so communities know what they are doing well and what they need to work on. We must keep working to end the coronavirus and give Americans as much information as possible, so we can get back to our new normal. The STOP COVID-19 Act would: Create a voluntary, data-driven COVID testing and contact tracing program for cities and counties to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Establish metrics, including positivity rate, contract tracing and test results, to measure the effectiveness of the program. Authorize an 100% federal share for the first two months, using unspent money in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund. That will continue after two months unless the city or county fails to attain the success metrics, then a 25% cost-share would apply. Increase transparency by requiring cities and counties to report testing metrics and community spread, as well as publish easily accessible information about testing locations and availability. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0004ECB0-5468-4E16-9924-6803543C6F59 | Rubio and McCaul Call for Strengthening of Entity List Rules for SMIC | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Representative Michael McCaul (R-TX) urged Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross to strengthen rules regarding the Entity Listing for Semiconductor Manufacturing International Company (SMIC)a company with strong ties to the military of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The lawmakers expressed concern that the current rules will not effectively cut SMIC off from U.S. technology and innovation, risking our national security.SMIC is a clear threat to U.S. national security, because of its integration into the defense establishment of the PRC and its national strategy for military-civil fusion, the lawmakers wrote. We are deeply concerned that SMIC's placement on the Entity List by the Bureau of Industry and Security was done for show and parochial commercial interests at the expense of U.S. national security The SMIC Entity List rule must be rewritten immediately to close these dangerous loopholes that would allow nearly all sales to SMIC to continue without restriction and support the CCP's stated goal of military preeminence.Rubio is Cochair of the bipartisan and bicameral Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee that oversees human rights, and a member of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. Representative McCaul is the Lead Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Chairman of the China Task Force.The full text of the letter is below.Dear Secretary Ross:We appreciate the Department of Commerce's designation of 77 companies, including 60 from the People's Republic of China (PRC), to its Entity List to restrict access of… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=26C31FF2-5B50-4B3A-ADC5-2AD537D04813 | Rubio Applauds Passage of Legislation to Combat Invasive Species in Conjunction With Everglades Restoration | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) applauded the passage of the Suppressing Looming Invasive Threats Harming Everglades Restoration (SLITHER) Act (S.3603), which was included in the Fiscal Year 2021 omnibus appropriations bill. The SLITHER Act authorizes and directs the South Florida Ecosystem Restoration Task Force to develop innovative technologies and approaches to identify, target, and eliminate invasive animal and plant species that threaten Everglades restoration. Native bird and mammal populations are indicators of whether Everglades restoration is effective. Invasive species, such as the Burmese python, are decimating native animal populations, obfuscating efforts to assess the success of restoration.Everglades restoration has an extraordinary impact on the State of Florida, Rubio said. Not only is the SLITHER Act a positive step forward in combating harmful species that threaten the ecological health of South Florida's ecosystem, but it will also make it easier to measure the progress of state and federal investment in Everglades restoration. I am proud that Congress has passed this legislation, and I remain committed to fighting for policies that protect, improve, and restore Florida's water quality and environment.Background on Rubio's efforts to fix Florida's water quality issues and restore the Everglades can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=33703E49-1A13-488C-8350-0B8EB8AF9281 | Rubio, Menendez, Leahy, Coons, Shaheen, Praise Passage of Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) in releasing the following statements after the passage of the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act (S.712), which was included in the Fiscal Year 2021 omnibus appropriations bill.Named in honor of former FBI agent and Floridian Robert Levinson, whose unlawful detention by the Iranian regime left him the longest held hostage in American history, the bipartisan legislation bolsters U.S. government resources to bring back Americans held hostage or unlawfully detained abroad. Levinson is presumed to have died in Iranian custody earlier this year.This bipartisan bill, named in honor of Floridian Bob Levinson, the longest held American hostage who is believed to have died while detained by the brutal regime in Tehran, strengthens our nation's resources to bring back American hostages, Rubio said. We must ensure that no American family will ever endure what the Levinson family went through. I am proud to have co-led this legislation and I look forward to it becoming law.Earlier this year, we learned that Bob Levinson, the longest-held hostage in American history, died while in Iranian custody, far from his loving family, friends and colleagues. In March 2007, after decades of service to the United States, Bob Levinson was cruelly and mysteriously taken from his family, who have spent the past 13 years tirelessly fighting for his safe return home. Their indefatigable dedication to Bob has inspired me and my colleagues over the years to pursue various leg… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3CF1C3DC-FD1D-4ABC-AB42-10BE3E61485A | Florida Wins Big in Year-End Spending Measure | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a list of provisions in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 omnibus appropriations bill that will be critical to the State of Florida in the months and years to come.Floridians are rightly frustrated by the gridlock, chaos, and partisanship in Washington, Rubio said. It took far too long for Congress to pass much-needed coronavirus relief and spending bills. But even with the dysfunction, we were able to secure dozens of critically important provisions for the State of Florida and our nation on issues ranging from small business relief and environmental protection to funding our military and combatting China.In addition to another $285 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program, which former Congressional Budget Office Director Doug Holtz-Eakin called the single most effective fiscal policy ever undertaken by the United States Government, the FY 2021 omnibus appropriations bill contained dozens of Rubio-led provisions related to China, the Western Hemisphere, our intelligence community, Florida water resources, and beyond.Critical provisions for the State of Florida in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending bill include:Military Readiness, Training, and Security $1.62 billion for P-8A Poseidon procurement $1.129 billion for F-35A aircraft and report language $525 million for F-35B $10 million in funding for Rapid Advanced Deposition (RAD) $73 million for Iron Dome missile defense funding $18 million for SOUTHCOM MMSV operations costs from their UFR $8.5 million for SOUTHCOM Overland Airborne ISR from their UFR $45 million for a SOF Special Tactics Ops Facility at Hurlburt Field $38 million for a SOF Combat Aircraft Parking Apron at H… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=4777B151-1919-4BDC-B6BC-BB9A464190AD | Rubio, Schatz, Scott, Hirono Applaud Passage of Restoring Resilient Reefs Act | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement after the Senate passed his bipartisan Restoring Resilient Reefs Act (S. 2429). First introduced in August 2019 with Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL) and Jenniffer Gonzlez-Coln (R-PR), the Restoring Resilient Reefs Act would reauthorize and modernize the Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2000, strengthen NOAA's Coral Reef program, and give innovative new tools and resources to the non-federal partners who are closest to the crisis in American coral reefs: states, territories, and local communities.The Coral Reef Conservation Act, which expired more than 15 years ago, was designed to promote the conservation of our nation's reefs. In recent years, the decline in the nation's coral reefs has only become more severe. The Restoring Resilient Reefs Act directs federal funding and technical assistance to states for the restoration and management of coral reef ecosystems, while incentivizing increased state and local investment in coral reef management capacity. The bill encourages innovative public-private Coral Reef Stewardship Partnerships among agencies, research centers, and community stakeholders; codifies and updates the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force; ensures that our national coral strategy is informed by a robust local stakeholder engagement process; and allows for emergency grants for coral disasters, among other measures.I saw the devastated condition of our coral reefs firsthand when touring the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, and I promised a comprehensive response, Rubio said. I am grateful the U.S. Senate came together to p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7AB71E63-0F70-4203-801A-340CF77D818D | Rubio and Merkley Applaud Inclusion of Their Provision to Require Administration to Determine Whether Crimes Against Uyghurs Constitute Atrocities | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) welcomed the inclusion of a critical provision in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending bill that requires the Secretary of State to determine, within 90 days after enactment, whether the persecution of Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, and members of other Muslim minority groups in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) constitutes atrocities. Similar language is also included in their bipartisan and bicameral Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (S.3744, H.R.6210). Evidence is mounting of the horrific and systematic human rights abuses and crimes against Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim minorities by the CCP in Xinjiang, Rubio said. It is time for the U.S. government to clearly assess the evidence and issue a formal determination of the atrocities. Yesterday, the U.S. Senate took a stand in support of justice, and I hope the Trump Administration and any future administrations will be clear about the nature of these crimes and hold those responsible accountable. I also urge free nations to do the same and recognize these atrocities for what they are. The Chinese Communist Party is committing crimes against humanity in Xinjiangand we can't stay silent in the face of those atrocities, Merkley said. You can't fix a problem without naming it, and it's a positive step that this legislation will require the U.S. government to assess this behavior for what it is. Now we must continue the fight, and do all that we can to hold the CCP accountable for its horrific actions. Forced labor, arbitrary detention, intrusive surveillance and policing, political indoctrination, and forced cultural assimilation of ethnic minorities should have no place anywhere in the world. Rubio is Co-Chair of the bipartisan and bicameral Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations' Subcommittee that oversees human rights, and is a member of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7E1537A5-F952-4814-98F0-B98FC6C27E32 | Rubio Applauds Inclusion of Western Hemisphere Initiatives in Year-End Spending Measure | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) welcomed the inclusion of multiple Western Hemisphere initiatives in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 omnibus appropriations bill. As Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations' Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere and as a member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Rubio has helped secure key funding to advance economic and rural development initiatives in Latin America, as well as secured funding for the support of democracy in Cuba and Venezuela, as well as for the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (OCB). It also included Rubio's required report language on Cuba's use of foreign medical missions, which constitute a form of modern day slavery.The United States remains a reliable partner to countries facing severe challenges in our hemisphere, Rubio said. Whether by providing security assistance and training, to funding initiatives that deter violence against women and children in El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala, or continuing to support the efforts of the Office of Cuba Broadcasting and democracy programs for Venezuela and Cuba, I remain committed to leading efforts and working with my colleagues in support of a safer and more democratic region.Critical Western Hemisphere provisions, supported by Rubio, included in the Fiscal Year 2021 omnibus appropriations bill: Compact language from the Central American Women and Children Protection Act of 2019. Latin America and the Caribbean: Requires the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to expand engagement in Latin America and the Caribbean that spurs private sector investment in initiatives to increase distributed energy generation systems and expands economic opportunities with… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=92E0E927-505B-4269-BB4B-09CEBD5A4D0D | Rubio Releases Critical Provisions for Florida in Additional COVID-19 Relief Package | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released a list of provisions in the $900 billion COVID-19 relief package that will be critical to the State of Florida during the coronavirus pandemic. These important provisions include relief to workers, families, and small businesses impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and state and local lockdowns, including Rubio's $325 billion small business relief package that includes nearly $285 billion for a second round of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help the hardest-hit small businesses.This past year, Americans all across the country have had their lives, jobs, and communities upended by a global pandemic that has claimed the lives of far too many, Rubio said. While I am confident that there are brighter days ahead and that Americans will persevere, it's clear that people need help right now. Although I believe Congress could have acted much sooner to provide additional relief to the American people, I am grateful that Congress was once again able to act in an overwhelmingly bipartisan manner to help workers, families, and small businesses.The package also extends a number of unemployment provisions in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act until March 14, 2021, that would otherwise expire at the end of the year. Additionally, the COVID-19 relief package includes Rubio and Senator Thom Tillis's (R-NC) American Citizen Coronavirus Relief Act (S.4071) to ensure that a U.S. citizen is eligible to receive an Economic Impact Payment (EIP) if he or she is married to a foreign national who is not currently a citizen of the United States.Critical provisions for the State of Florida in the COVID-19 relief package incl… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A66A0A1A-C6EF-46AA-8270-C7C6EED45A5E | Rubio Secures Record Everglades Funding, Critical Water Projects in Spending Bill | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement after Congress agreed to appropriate $250 million for South Florida Ecosystem Restoration, which funds a suite of Everglades projects, including the Central Everglades Planning Project, in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 omnibus appropriations bill. Rubio, a member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, previously secured $200 million in FY 2020 federal appropriations for Everglades restoration, a three-fold increase from the previous fiscal year. After decades of delays and underfunding, it is clear there is now an overwhelming bipartisan commitment to restoring our nation's Everglades, Rubio said. I am grateful to the President, the Governor, and all my colleagues in the House and Senate for their tireless efforts, and I look forward to working to further advance restoration efforts in the months and years to come so we can finally deliver on these long overdue promises of a healthy, thriving ecosystem in Florida. The FY 2021 omnibus appropriations bill also includes the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). Rubio secured numerous key provisions in WRDA 2020, including authorization and funding for critical U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects related to Everglades restoration, beach renourishment, flood control, and environmental protection. Not only does this bill authorize a number of projects that will benefit Florida, but it includes language to fix the bureaucratic mess that has caused unnecessary delays to the construction of the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Storage Reservoir, Rubio continued. The EAA reservoir is a critical piece of infrastructure that will move Everglades restoration forward and reduce the threat that harmful discharges from Lake Okeechobee pose to our coastal communities. Overall, the Water Resources Development Act takes significant steps to improve Florida's ecosystems, ports, flood-prevention infrastructure, reservoirs, and water systems. A detailed list of Florida-related WRDA 202… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=C349109B-9EFF-4964-AA42-FD2F6DEA05FC | Rubio Applauds House Passage of Bill to Extend Bankruptcy Judgeships | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) applauded the House passage of legislation to extend 25 temporary bankruptcy judgeships across the country including two in Florida for five years. Rubio joined Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Chris Coons (D-DE) in introducing the bill earlier this month. The bill previously passed in the Senate on December 9, 2020, and it will now head to the President for signature.In addition to Rubio, Coons, and Graham, Senators Tom Carper (D-DE), Ben Cardin (D-MD), and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) cosponsored the legislation.As America's businesses struggle with the challenges of operating during the COVID-19 pandemic, the ability for businesses to efficiently reorganize in bankruptcy is critical, Rubio said. Any obstacle to resolving these cases is an undue burden for both our judicial system and businesses. This legislation ensures that our courts have the resources necessary to manage these critical caseloads.This legislation will better equip our bankruptcy system, helping courts, businesses and consumers by allowing these cases to be addressed in a timely manner, Graham said. I'm glad to see these important changes passed into law.Businesses and individuals are facing profound financial stress as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and this bipartisan bill will ensure they can go through bankruptcy efficiently, Coons said. When they can't, jobs and revenue are lost. Delaware has earned its reputation for having one of the most highly regarded bankruptcy courts in the country, and this law ensures that our court has the resources it will need to manage pressing caseloads and provide relief to businesses and employees.In these challenging times, our leg… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=E72EBBDC-9F6F-46AA-9427-63AD6A679C51 | Rubio, Cardin, Risch, Feinstein Welcome Passage of Their Bipartisan Bill in Support of Tibet | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Jim Risch (R-ID), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), welcomed the passage of their bipartisan Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2019 (S.2539). The legislation, included in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending bill, seeks to update and strengthen the Tibetan Policy Act of 2002 to address emerging human rights, religious freedom, and other challenges faced by the Tibetan people. Representative Jim McGovern (D-MA) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives (H.R. 4331). Rubio is Co-Chair of the bipartisan and bicameral Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations' Subcommittee that oversees human rights, and is a member of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. Passage of the Tibetan Policy and Support Act sends an important message that the United States stands with the Tibetan people and against any effort by the Chinese Communist Party to interfere with the religious process of identifying Tibetan Buddhist leaders, such as the Dalai Lama, Rubio said. We must continue to shine a light on the grave assaults against the Tibetan people's religion, culture, and language by the Chinese Communist government, both inside Tibet and outside the PRC. I applaud the passage of this bipartisan legislation and urge the State Department to use the tools it provides to address escalating human rights abuses in Tibet. Bipartisan passage of the Tibet Policy and Support Act sends a strong message to Chinese officials that the U.S. will not stay silent in the face of inference in the Tibetan Buddhist practices, including the deeply spiritual process of selecting the next Dalai Lama. Such actions will be met with consequences, such as the possibility of targeted Global Magnitsky sanctions, Cardin said. Congress stands united in its support for the human rights, religious freedom and genuine autonom… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403467 | Rep. Castor Champions Wins for Tampa in FY21 Omnibus | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Kathy Castor | C001066 | castor.house.gov | castor | https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor released the following statement as the bipartisan FY21 omnibus and $900B in COVID-19 relief head to the president’s desk: “In addition to the immediate relief provided by the COVID-19 emergency aid in this package, the FY21 omnibus contains priorities that will support our economy and military, lower health care costs, strengthen our fight for clean energy and more. I’m pleased that we came to a bipartisan solution that meets the needs of our community and more. Several provisions that I championed were included in the final package will directly benefit Tampa. “The bill fully funds a 3 percent pay raise for the members of our military and shows a continued commitment to upgrade base housing for military families. It also provides $9.5B to fund SOCOM’s operations and ensures that the brave men and women who are the Tip of the Spear can continue to serve in the world’s most dangerous places to keep us all safe. “My language to direct the Department of Housing and Urban Development to survey public housing authorities to determine how many are known to be built on cemeteries or historical burial grounds was included in this bill and will hopefully provide clarity and peace of mind for families in Tampa and around the country. In identifying lost graves, we can show respect for the final resting place of countless individuals and provide long-awaited peace of mind for their families. The history of Tampa’s Zion Cemetery, the Black families buried there, and the imperative to do right by the families who live in Robles Park have brought us to a moment and this direction to HUD will help bring recognition and justice here in Tampa and across the nation at similar sites. "Today's legislation also includes several key provisions that will help reduce pollution, protect public health, and invest in resilience to keep Americans safe. From phasing down the use of superpollutant hydrofluorocarbons to investing in research that will expand our use of renewable energy, this legislation moves us in … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://lawson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-lawson-new-federal-budget-forgives-111-million-in-famu-federal-loans | Rep. Lawson: New Federal Budget Forgives $111 Million in FAMU Federal Loans | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Al Lawson | L000586 | lawson.house.gov | legacy | December 22, 2020 Rep. Lawson: New Federal Budget Forgives $111 Million in FAMU Federal Loans WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Rep. Al Lawson (FL-05), today announced that the FY 2020-21 federal spending deal that Congress passed on Monday includes good news for Florida A&M University, as it also cancels more than $111 million in FAMU federal debt held by the U.S. government. In 2019, FAMU borrowed $126 million from the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Capital Finance Program to construct new dorms, and refinance the debt on its residence halls.The HBCU Capital Finance Debt Relief Act, which discharges over $1.3 billion in debt held by HBCUs, was included in the omnibus spending deal. I'm proud to have worked with my colleagues in the House and the Senate to eliminate the federal debt, not only at FAMU, but all HBCUs that have been hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic, said Rep. Lawson. As COVID-19 has severely impacted the higher education community, particularly low-resourced HBCUs, we felt cancelling their debt would give them a fresh start and allow them to focus more resources on educating students. "This will mean a brighter future for thousands of young people as our communities will also benefit from their knowledge, skills and expertise for years to come, Rep. Lawson added. Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6B62A775-52AD-4DA2-934E-D813C775DFE4 | At Mast’s Urging, Congress Delivers Historic Funding For Everglades Restoration | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Brian Mast | M001199 | mast.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) today released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the FY2021 budget, which includes $250 million in funding for Everglades restoration: This is a historic vote for Everglades restoration and stopping harmful discharges, Rep. Mast said. This record-setting funding is exactly what we need to accelerate restoration projects and send more water south where Mother Nature intended it to go! In 2019, Rep. Mast convinced the White House and Congress to pass an appropriations package with $200 million in funding for Everglades restoration. Earlier this year, Rep. Mast sent a letter to President Trump urging his Administration to request $250 million for Everglades funding in his budget. This year's budget, which includes the additional $50 million, builds on Rep. Mast's track record of success and brings the total to a record-setting $250 million. A full timeline of Rep. Mast's efforts to secure Everglades funding during the 116th Congress is available here. This appropriations bill has also passed the Senate and is expected to be signed into law by President Donald Trump in the coming days. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://steube.house.gov/media/press-releases/steube-demands-investigation-swalwell-s-ties-chinese-spy | Steube Demands Investigation into Swalwell’s Ties with Chinese Spy | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Greg Steube | S001214 | steube.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) joined colleagues in sending a letter to Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray, inquiring if the Bureau has made any efforts to investigate the relationship between Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and suspected Chinese spy Fang Fang, or Christine Fang. We know that the threat from Communist China is dire as they attempt to infiltrate our universities, intelligence communities, and even our highest levels of government, Steube said. At a minimum, we need to remove Eric Swalwell from the Intelligence Committee and demand a thorough and immediate investigation into his ties with Fang Fang. Anything less would be a threat to our national security and complete failure on behalf of the American people. Swalwell currently serves on the House Intelligence Committee, and despite House Republicans'efforts, there have been no actions to suspend or remove him from the committee at this time. Ties between Swalwell and Fang date back to 2012, and she has a history of fundraising for his campaign. There are evenreportsof Fang having an intern hired to Swalwell's Congressional office after receiving her recommendation. The FBI alerted Swalwell of their investigation into Fang in 2015, shortly after she left the country. Strengthening our national security and countering the threat from Communist China has been a top priority for Steube. Earlier this Congress, he introduced theChinese Communist Party (CCP) Visa Disclosure Act of 2020,which would require aliens applying for certain United States visas to disclose if they receive funds from the Government of the People's Republic of China or the Chinese Communist Party. The full text of the letter can be found here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-demands-investigation-into-swalwell-s-ties-with-chinese-spy/ | Steube Demands Investigation into Swalwell’s Ties with Chinese Spy | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | W. Gregory Steube | S001214 | steube.house.gov | steube | https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ | scraper | Steube Demands Investigation into Swalwell’s Ties with Chinese Spy WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) joined colleagues in sending a letter to Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray, inquiring if the Bureau has made any efforts to investigate the relationship between Representative Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and suspected Chinese spy Fang Fang, or Christine Fang. “We know that the threat from Communist China is dire as they attempt to infiltrate our universities, intelligence communities, and even our highest levels of government,” Steube said. “At a minimum, we need to remove Eric Swalwell from the Intelligence Committee and demand a thorough and immediate investigation into his ties with Fang Fang. Anything less would be a threat to our national security and complete failure on behalf of the American people.” Swalwell currently serves on the House Intelligence Committee, and despite House Republicans’ efforts, there have been no actions to suspend or remove him from the committee at this time. Ties between Swalwell and Fang date back to 2012, and she has a history of fundraising for his campaign. There are even reports of Fang having an intern hired to Swalwell’s Congressional office after receiving her recommendation. The FBI alerted Swalwell of their investigation into Fang in 2015, shortly after she left the country. Strengthening our national security and countering the threat from Communist China has been a top priority for Steube. Earlier this Congress, he introduced the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) Visa Disclosure Act of 2020, which would require aliens applying for certain United States visas to disclose if they receive funds from the Government of the People’s Republic of China or the Chinese Communist Party. The full text of the letter can be found here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-votes-against-trillion-dollar-politicized-spending-bill/ | Steube Votes Against Trillion Dollar Politicized Spending Bill | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | W. Gregory Steube | S001214 | steube.house.gov | steube | https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ | scraper | Steube Votes Against Trillion Dollar Politicized Spending Bill WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube today released the following statement after voting against this year’s Consolidated Appropriations Act: “This so-called relief bill fails to target the needs of citizens in our District and fails to bring much-needed relief to our fellow countrymen. Instead of addressing the economic suffering of Americans, Democrats have run the clock down so debate and meaningful compromise is impossible. Their solution is to manipulate this process to include their radical agenda of defunding ICE, elements of the Green New Deal and to skyrocket unnecessary federal spending. We are left with a choice – give in again or reject this misguided legislation as a signal that we demand targeted aid for our citizens.” Instead of providing relief to those in need, this legislation would defund critical agencies like ICE, continue to incentivize keeping people home from work and students home from school, and would raise the deficit to the highest levels in history. The legislation included a $1.4 trillion omnibus spending package, along with an additional $900 billion COVID relief package, totaling as much as $2.3 trillion of taxpayer money. With the United States already facing $27.4 trillion of debt, this legislation would add to the problem, all while: Encouraging Americans to rely on unemployment insurance instead of returning to the workforce; Increasing dependency on SNAP monthly benefits; Defunding critical security agencies, like ICE; Allowing schools to receive extra funding while they remain closed and hamper the development of America’s children; Bailing out the failing U.S. Postal Service and allowing them to not repay the prior $10 billion loan from the CARES Act; Lacking any liability protections for businesses, schools, universities and churches, thus further encouraging ongoing COVID-19 closures; Giving concessions to the radical progressive climate change agenda; Extending tax credits solely de… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-applauds-senate-passage-his-buy-american-resolution | Sen. Rick Scott Applauds Senate Passage of His “Buy American” Resolution | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Rick Scott | S001217 | www.rickscott.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott applauded the Senate passage of his and Senator Tammy Baldwin's bipartisanresolution calling on Americans to buy products made in the U.S. whenever possible in order to support American jobs and manufacturing, and help build up the U.S. supply chain. Senator Rick Scott said, I'm glad my colleagues joined together to pass this resolution, which encourages all Americans to buy products made in the U.S. whenever possible. This outbreak has shown that we cannot continue to rely on our adversaries, like Communist China, who lied about the coronavirus and refused to be a partner in solving the crisis, for our critical supplies. I know it's not always easy, but buying American is an important step we can all take at home to support American jobs, American producers and American manufacturers, while helping build up the U.S. supply chain. I'm committed to supporting American businesses and jobs, and ensuring America remains strong as the undisputed leader of the global economy. Senator Tammy Baldwin said, I strongly believe that when we're using U.S. taxpayer dollars, we should be supporting American workers and American-made products. As our nation addresses supply chain shortages and works to keep our economy moving forward during this pandemic, we must boost our Made in America economy by prioritizing American manufacturers, workers and products over foreign workers and foreign-made goods. See more in Senator Scott's speech on the Senate floor HERE or below. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://posey.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=396854 | Rep. Poseys Statement on His Vote Against the $2.3 Trillion Omnibus Bill | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Bill Posey | P000599 | posey.house.gov | legacy | Rep. Posey's Statement on the $2.3 Trillion Omnibus Bill Washington, December 21, 2020- Congressman Bill Posey (R-Rockledge) released the following statement regarding his vote against the 5,500-page, $2.3 trillion omnibus bill: Tonight, the House considered two bills comprising over 5,500 pages of spending totaling $2.3 trillion, all of which was made public just four hours before the 1.1 million word bill was put to a vote on the House floor with little time to read the legislation. Congressional leaders put off what could have been done months earlier, instead waiting until the eleventh hour to bring forward important legislation to fund our government and provide economic relief that was saddled with thousands of pages in unrelated legislation. I'm pleased that there are some very good provisions in the bills including provisions I have voted for previous COVID relief bills - like the approval of additional relief to those suffering the economic and health effects of COVID, as well as the additional unemployment benefits. However, the real process of negotiating this legislation should have taken place long ago on the House floor through spirited, transparent debate and votes on amendments from both sides of the aisle, not written behind closed doors by a handful of people. We must end the practice that allows a small number of people in a back room to rewrite the laws of this nation and spend trillions of dollars with no transparency or oversight. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402899 | Rep. Ted Deutch Statement on COVID Relief Legislation | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Rep. Ted Deutch released the following statement after his vote in support of COVID relief and government funding legislation. Today I voted in favor of legislation to deliver desperately needed help to Americans struggling under the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. With the tragic number of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths rising across the nation, this legislation provides billions of dollars to help slow the spread of this virus and to accelerate equitable vaccine distribution that will finally bring this public health crisis to an end. The bill includes emergency economic relief to American families, including direct payments of $600 per adult and child, expanded federal unemployment benefits of $300 per week, a 15 percent boost to SNAP benefits and funding to restock food banks that have been heroically feeding our communities every day. The bill provides $25 billion in rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and expands low income housing tax credits, strengthens the earned income tax credit and child tax credit, and provides a tax credit to support paid sick leave. The legislation will include billions in funding for colleges, schools, and child care providers. The legislation also funds billions of dollars in assistance for struggling small businesses and other employers. The bill expands relief programs to include nonprofits, restaurants, and dedicated funding for struggling live venues, independent movie theaters and cultural institutions that are the backbone of South Florida's hospitality and tourism economy. So many Americans are sick, and many more are struggling economically and worried about losing their jobs or their homes. While this bill provides important emergency relief, the final product is far from perfect. I am extremely disappointed that Republicans blocked additional unemployment benefit increases and refused to provide emergency funding for states and municipalities whose budgets have been drained responding to the pandemic. In addition, I am upset t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402900 | Deutch, Bonamici, Young Bill to Strengthen Marine Energy Passes House | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today the House passed bipartisan legislation to increase federal investments in marine energy led by Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Congressman Don Young (R-AK), and Congressman Ted Deutch (D-FL). The Water Power Research and Development Act strengthens water power programs at the Department of Energy (DOE) and provides funding for research, development, demonstration, and commercialization of marine energy. The legislation passed the House as part of a funding and COVID relief package. It will authorize $186.6 million for the DOE Water Power Technologies Office over the next four years, including $137.4 million for federal investments in marine energy. Reducing the increasing impacts of climate change requires that our nation move toward renewable sources of energy, said Congressman Ted Deutch. Harnessing marine and hydrokinetic power from ocean currents, waves, tides, and other sources can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and decrease carbon emissions.This bill will invest in research, development, and deployment of marine and hydrokinetic power that is currently being conducted by research centers, such as Florida Atlantic University.This is an investment in the energy of the future and one that I strongly support. "Our ocean hols tremendous potential to mitigate the climate crisis, but for too long the power of waves, tides, and currents has been an untapped clean energy resource," saidCongresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. "We must expedite our transition to a 100 percent clean energy economy, and scaling up the development of marine energy technologies can help sustainablu power our homes, buildings, and communities, and also create good-paying jobs. I am thrilled that our Water Power Research and Development Act will be signed into law because it will accelerate innovative research and development, including the efforts of Oregon State University and the Pacific Marine Energy Center. I appreciate the support and collaboration of Rep. Don Young and Rep. Ted Deutch in moving this bill forward. "Hy… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases-es?ContentRecord_id=8EBD495A-31C0-4A9A-99AD-6E3D79D8570D | Rubio, Tillis Aplauden Correccin del CARES Act Para Permitirle Cheques de Estmulo a Ciudadanos de EE. UU. | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Los senadores estadounidenses Marco Rubio (R-FL) y Thom Tillis (R-NC) aplaudieron la inclusin de su legislacin, La Ley de Alivio al Ciudadano Americano por el Coronavirus (S.4071), en el paquete de ayuda federal por el coronavirus. Esta medida asegurar que un ciudadano de EE.UU. sea elegible para recibir un Pago de Alivio por el Impacto Econmico (EIP, por sus siglas en ingls) si l o ella est casado con un extranjero que actualmente no es un ciudadano de EE.UU. Esta inclusin se aplicar retroactivamente como una devolucin de impuestos reembolsable y la elegibilidad tambin se incluye para la prxima ronda de cheques de estmulo econmico. A principios de este ao, durante una entrevista con Telemundo Network, el senador Rubio expres su inters en remediar esta inelegibilidad en la Ley CARES. "Arreglar la provisin que le negaba a algunos ciudadanos de EE.UU. elegibles para recibir un cheque de estmulo econmico bajo la Ley CARES era una omisin que tena que ser corregida", Rubio dijo. "Ningn americano tuvo que ser bloqueado de recibir asistencia federal durante la pandemia global del COVID. Le agradezco al senador Tillis y a mis otros colegas en el senado por su liderazgo para lograr que esto fuese una realidad". Relacionado: | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8F002DEB-E4E9-49F3-9BAD-CE8930C384E0 | Rubio, Warner Applaud Passage of Intelligence Authorization Act in COVID-19 Package | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Acting Chairman Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Vice Chairman Mark Warner (D-VA) applauded the upcoming passage of the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (IAA) as part of the bipartisan, targeted COVID-19 relief package. The bill, which was approved by the Committee on a bipartisan 14 - 1 vote on June 8, 2020 and passed the Senate on July 23, 2020 as part of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, authorizes funding, provides legal authorities, and enhances Congressional oversight for the U.S. Intelligence Community.Recent events make it all too clear that our nation continues to face ever-expanding threats from hostile foreign actors, including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, Rubio said. It is vital that our Intelligence Community has the necessary resources, authorities, and personnel to protect America's national security, and the Senate Intelligence Committee's strong, bipartisan legislation does just that. Our bill also increases government efficiency and represents comprehensive Congressional oversight to ensure that these tools are executed responsibly and cost-effectively.I am happy to say that the Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) for Fiscal Year 2021 was included in the compromise legislation. The IAA ensures that the women and men of America's Intelligence Community have the tools and resources they need to keep our country safe, and to ensure that decision makers are presented with the best intelligence, regardless of fear or favor. Passage of the IAA also ensures that Congress fulfills its mission of providing robust oversight of the nation's intelligence agencies. This bipartisan bil… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=CFFE9FDB-3448-4349-8E05-1FC37C1FB367 | English/Espaol: Rubio, Tillis Applaud CARES Act Fix to Allow Stimulus Money for U.S. Citizens | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) applauded the inclusion of their legislation, The American Citizen Coronavirus Relief Act (S.4071), in the coronavirus relief package. This measure will ensure that a U.S. citizen is eligible to receive an Economic Impact Payment (EIP) if he or she is married to a foreign national who is not currently a citizen of the United States. This inclusion will apply retroactively as a refundable tax rebate and eligibility is also included for the next round of EIPs. Earlier this year, during an interview with Telemundo Network, Senator Rubio expressed his interest in remedying this ineligibility under the CARES Act. "Fixing the provision that denied some eligible American citizens from receiving a federal stimulus check under the CARES Act was an oversight that needed correction, Rubio said. No American should have been blocked from receiving federal assistance during a global pandemic because of who they married. I thank Senator Tillis and my other Senate colleagues for their leadership in getting this across the finish line. Every eligible American citizen should receive the direct economic stimulus payment from the CARES Act and this new COVID-19 relief package as we continue to battle this pandemic, Tillis said. I am proud this bipartisan legislation to fix this oversight will become law so hard-working North Carolinians receive the stimulus payment they deserve. Related: RUBIO, TILLIS APLAUDEN CORRECCIN DEL CARES ACT PARA PERMITIRLE CHEQUES DE ESTMULO A CIUDADANOS DE EE. UU. Washington, D.C. Los senadores estadounidenses Marco Rubio (R-FL) y Thom Tillis (R-NC) aplaudieron la inclusin de su legislacin, La Ley de Alivio al Ciudadano Americano por el Coronavirus (S.4071), en el paquete de ayuda federal por el coronavirus. Esta medida asegurar que un ciudadano de EE.UU. sea elegible para recibir un Pago de Alivio por el Impacto Econmico (EIP, por sus siglas en ingls) si l o ella est casado con un extranjero que actualmente no es un ciudadan… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=DA23B5EB-A1F8-4740-AD86-7896C9B58786 | Chairman Rubio: Help Is Finally on the Way | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, applauded the agreement of a $325 billion small business relief package, which includes nearly $285 billion for a second round of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help the hardest-hit small businesses. The package includes a higher PPP forgivable loan calculation for restaurants, hotels, and other businesses in related services, and increased assistance for live venues in order to aid industries that have been severely impacted by state and local restrictions. The legislation also includes enhancements and a direct infusion of working capital in SBA's lending programs, PPP set-asides for the smallest businesses and community lenders, and extension of debt forbearance in order to help minority-owned and underserved borrowers access grants and the working capital they need.Last week, former Congressional Budget Office Director Doug Holtz-Eakin called PPP the single most effective fiscal policy ever undertaken by the United States Government.A summary can be found here. A section by section can be found here.To all of the small business owners who have worked hard to make ends meet and to all the employees left in limbo: help is finally on the way, Chairman Rubio said. The Paycheck Protection Program was the single most effective relief program passed by Congress, and I am proud that this legislation will provide enough funds for a second round of PPP and additional relief measures to help the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses weather the second, and hopefully last, wave.Importantly, this package includes targeted assistance to aid restaurants and li… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403466 | Rep. Castor Statement on House Passage of COVID-19 Emergency Relief | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Kathy Castor | C001066 | castor.house.gov | castor | https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | “Help is on the way for American families and small businesses as the House just passed a fifth Covid-19 emergency aid bill. The landmark package will provide relief to individuals, small businesses, schools and hospitals - and a bridge to a day when the coronavirus vaccine is widely administered. Workers and families have been hurting for months and the bill will provide assistance for day-to-day realities like paying rent, taking care of children, and putting food on the table. This bill will take immediate steps to help. “While our communities have been grappling with the ongoing health and economic crises tied to the COVID-19 pandemic, I pressed for swift action and voted in May for emergency aid in the Heroes Act. Nevertheless, despite the delay, this aid package will provide a vital lifeline for many. “House Democrats fought for the inclusion of a second direct cash payments of $600 to many adults and children, averted the sudden expiration of Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits for millions and added a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work. This legislation includes over $280 billion in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, including funds that will be targeted for underserved communities, nonprofits, and the mom and pops shops we know and love here in Tampa. Many have shared that PPP has been a critical lifeline throughout the pandemic, and I’m confident that this infusion of new funds will be a shot in the arm to additional small business owners here in our community in the days ahead. “We all have seen that hope is on the horizon with the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, and Democrats pushed to ensure over $73 billion in public health investments to keep the foot on the gas and support the free, safe and equitable vaccine distribution that is necessary to crush the virus. The virus has had a disproportionate impact on communities of color, and $2.5 billion is allocated to expand access to testing and contract tracing in high-risk and underserved populations in the days ahead. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://crist.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2225 | Crist Statement as COVID Relief Bill Heads to House Floor | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Charlie Crist | C001111 | crist.house.gov | legacy | Crist Statement as COVID Relief Bill Heads to House Floor f t # e Washington, DC, December 21, 2020 Washington, DC U.S. Representative Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) released a statement ahead of House passage of H.R. 133, a $900 billion coronavirus relief legislative package to provide additional support to American families and businesses struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic, and secure the fast and efficient distribution of the novel vaccine to eradicate the virus. The legislation, which is expected to pass later today, comes following weeks of bicameral, bipartisan negotiations. The relief package will also include $1.4 trillion to keep the government open for fiscal year 2021, completing the fiscal work of the government and safeguarding the nation from the threat of a government shutdown. Notably featured in the COVID relief legislation are provisions: Providing another round of direct economic payments, $600 per individuals and dependents; Restoring federal unemployment assistance, with a $300 per week federal add-on and 11 additional weeks, through March 2021. Benefits for self-employed individuals, gig workers, and those who've exhausted state benefits have been extended; Providing a $325 billion lifeline for small businesses, including $284 billion for a second round of forgivable Paycheck Protection Program loans, $20 billion for Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advance Grants, including the full $10,000 for small businesses in low-income communities; $15 billion in Save Our Stages relief for live venues, theaters, and museums; Extending the federal moratorium on evictions through end of January 2021 and including $25 billion in rental assistance for families who owe back rent; Getting students safely back to school with $82 billion for K-12 public schools, a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://crist.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2227 | Funds for Veteran Treatment Courts and Red Tide Prevention Among Crist Priorities Included in Massive Government Appropriations Bill | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Charlie Crist | C001111 | crist.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC U.S. Representative Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) released the following statement after several Crist-championed priorities were included in H.R. 133, a $2.3 trillion legislative package consisting of all twelve FY' 2021 appropriations bills and additional measures. This completes the fiscal work of the 116th Congress, keeps the government working for you, and protects Pinellas residents from a government shutdown through September 30, 2021. The bill, which passed the House overwhelmingly tonight, also features $900 billion in bipartisan, bicameral COVID relief and is expected to pass the Senate later this evening. A member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Crist has been working since the spring on this funding package, which included the following key provisions for Pinellas families, veterans, and servicemembers: $25 million for Veteran Treatment Courts to give veterans in need access to treatment instead of jail time, supporting Crist's Veteran Treatment Court Act, which was signed into law in August. $13 million to research red tide and other harmful algae blooms, an increase of 30% from last year; $1 million for a new program aimed at detecting and monitoring harmful algae blooms like red tide in the Gulf of Mexico so we can better prepare for and respond to algae outbreaks; Continued funding for Community Health Centers like those Clearwater, Largo, and St. Pete through 2023, to provide low- and no-cost healthcare for neighbors in need; $12.84 billion to fully fund the United States Coast Guard, including a 3% pay raise for Coasties and investments in Coast Guard infrastructure and equipment; $15 billion for Save Our Stages grants for live venue, theatrical, museum, and performing arts organization operators, providing much need relief for the local live music and art venues that make our community so unique; $270 million in base funding plus a historic $3 billion emergency COVID allocation for the Community Development F… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://demings.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-demings-supports-new-covid-relief | Rep. Demings Supports New COVID Relief | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Val Demings | D000627 | demings.house.gov | legacy | ORLANDO, FL Today Rep. Demings will vote for new emergency COVID-19 relief legislation for struggling Americans, small businesses and communities. A summary is below. Said Rep. Demings, Today's COVID relief deal is long-overdue and much-needed. Americans are desperate for financial assistance, and hospitals and communities need immediate support. We have been fighting for additional COVID relief since March, only to see it delayed and reduced over and over by the Senate. $600 per American is important, but it won't cover rent or other major expenses. I am voting for this relief in the hopes that it can provide a short-term aid to struggling Americans, but I strongly believe that we must do more, and soon. Since last spring, House Democrats have offered multiple deals and compromises to get more assistance into the bank accounts of struggling families and small businesses. Our efforts have been denied at every turn, and the American people have paid the costs. Even in recent weeks, multiple bipartisan deals were torpedoed by Senate Republicans seeking to undermine President-Elect Biden's work to help our economy recover. It is impossible to justify why our Republican colleagues refused over and over to give help to people in crisis. As we move into the new year, I pray that they will remember why they are here: to help people, especially during times of crisis. Background In addition to the fiscal year 2021 appropriations bills, the spending package contains $900 billion in emergency coronavirus relief to protect the lives and livelihoods of the American people. Among its provisions, the bill provides: Funding to distribute safe vaccines to crush the virus; $13 billion in increased SNAP and child nutrition benefits to help relieve the COVID hunger crisis; A new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child; Extends the eviction moratorium through January 31 and provides $25 billion in rental assistance; A $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work; $82 billion in funding for coll… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3191 | Rep. Frankel Statement on Passage of Emergency Coronavirus Relief Package, Government Funding Agreement | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Lois Frankel | F000462 | frankel.house.gov | legacy | Today, Rep. Lois Frankel (FL-21) issued the following statement after voting for the bipartisan, bicameral emergency coronavirus relief and government funding package, which passed the House this evening. Once it passes the Senate it will go to the President's desk for signature. The COVID-19 pandemic and economic crisis have made this year painful for so many: over 315,000 families have lost loved ones, millions of workers have lost their jobs, and countless households are unable to make ends meet, said Rep. Frankel. This emergency relief package is critical to helping us crush this deadly virus and put money in the pockets of struggling families. I look forward to working with the new Biden-Harris Administration to meet the remaining needs of the American people and our local governments during this historic health and financial crisis. The emergency coronavirus relief package includes $900 billion in urgently needed funds to help save the lives and livelihoods of the American people. Provisions include: Accelerating Free Vaccine Distribution: Provides billions in urgently needed funds to accelerate the free and equitable distribution of safe vaccines to as many Americans as possible as soon as possible, to implement a strong national testing and tracing strategy with billions reserved specifically for combating the disparities facing communities of color, and to support our heroic health care workers and providers. Enhanced Unemployment Insurance Benefits: Averts the expiration of Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits for millions and adds a $300 per week UI enhancement for Americans out of work. Direct Payments to Families: A new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child, up to $2,400 per family. Strong Support for Small Business: Includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans, expanded PPP eligibility for nonprofits and local newspapers, TV and radio broadcasters, key modifications to PPP to serve the smallest businesses and struggling non-pr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://gaetz.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-matt-gaetz-issues-statement-following-house-omnibus-legislation | Congressman Matt Gaetz Issues Statement Following Stimulus Package and Omnibus Bill House Votes | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Matt Gaetz | G000578 | gaetz.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. Today, US Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) issued the following statement in response to the US House of Representatives' passage ofa government funding bill for fiscal year 2021 and a COVID-19 reliefpackage: "Democrats quietly acknowledged the outlandish provisions in their omnibus legislation tonight by splitting their original legislation into two separate votes. I voted yes on the half of the bill which funds our military and provides a pay raise for the brave men and women who serve America. I voted no on the second half of the spending bill, which provides windfalls to corporate special interests, while simultaneously shortchanging American citizens . While the Defense/Homeland Security/CJS/FSGG bill is not perfect, it provides crucial support for our servicemembers, and it gives America's armed forces the tools they need to succeed, both now and in the future. It also did not place arbitrary and unfair limits on the President's authority to withdraw troops and to draw down endless, unconstitutional wars. The other half of the Democrats' bill, however, denies a simple truth no amount of government-sponsored generational theft will do our people better than an open economy. It continues to subsidize the heartless, reactionary lockdown ideology of Speaker Pelosi and Leader Schumer's political allies. America's struggling workers should be prioritized over gender-specific programs in Pakistan or anti-narcotics programs in Bruma, or money for Ukraine (all of which are funded in this bill). It doubles down on many failed Democrat policies, giving special interests billions of dollars in perks, while giving our fellow Americans a paltry payment of only $600. America deserves better than this swamp sludge,"Congressman Gaetz said. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/covid-relief-bill-includes-diaz-balart-s-fix-to-a-cares-act-discrepancy | COVID Relief Bill Includes Diaz-Balarts Fix to a CARES Act Discrepancy | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement regarding his provision included in the new COVID relief bill that allows U.S. Citizens and Legal Permanent Residents to receive stimulus checks even if they are married to an undocumented immigrant. Under current law, the CARES Act specifies that taxpayers who file with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), rather than a Social Security Number (SSN), are ineligible for the Economic Impact Payment. The IRS assigns an ITIN to nonresident and resident aliens who are ineligible to receive Social Security Numbers or are in the process of applying for legal status. This provision in the CARES Act also applies to ITIN holders who file jointly with a U.S. Citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, but in this case, the U.S. Citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse is also ineligible to receive the Economic Impact Payment for themselves or their children. In June, Congressman Diaz-Balart introduced the Economic Impact Payment Fairness Act to address this discrepancy within the CARES Act by allowing all those with a valid SSN who meet the income requirements to receive the EIP and the child tax credit if their children meet the current criteria. As I have stated before, there is no reason to justify why a U.S. Citizen or Legal Permanent Resident should be excluded from receiving a benefit meant for Americans simply due to the legal status of a spouse. I am thrilled to see that this provision was taken into consideration in this new COVID relief bill, and I look forward to seeing the great impact this will make in helping the American people. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/covid-relief-bill-includes-diaz-balarts-fix-cares-act-discrepancy | COVID Relief Bill Includes Diaz-Balart’s Fix to a CARES Act Discrepancy | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | mariodiazbalart | https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement regarding his provision included in the new COVID relief bill that allows U.S. Citizens and Legal Permanent Residents to receive stimulus checks even if they are married to an undocumented immigrant. Under current law, the CARES Act specifies that taxpayers who file with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), rather than a Social Security Number (SSN), are ineligible for the Economic Impact Payment. The IRS assigns an ITIN to nonresident and resident aliens who are ineligible to receive Social Security Numbers or are in the process of applying for legal status. This provision in the CARES Act also applies to ITIN holders who file jointly with a U.S. Citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, but in this case, the U.S. Citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse is also ineligible to receive the Economic Impact Payment for themselves or their children. In June, Congressman Diaz-Balart introduced the Economic Impact Payment Fairness Act to address this discrepancy within the CARES Act by allowing all those with a valid SSN who meet the income requirements to receive the EIP and the child tax credit if their children meet the current criteria. "As I have stated before, there is no reason to justify why a U.S. Citizen or Legal Permanent Resident should be excluded from receiving a benefit meant for Americans simply due to the legal status of a spouse. I am thrilled to see that this provision was taken into consideration in this new COVID relief bill, and I look forward to seeing the great impact this will make in helping the American people." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-remarks-house-passage-critical-covid-relief | Diaz-Balart Remarks on the House Passage of Critical COVID Relief | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | mariodiazbalart | https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement regarding the House passage of approximately $900 billion in critical COVID relief. "This bill closely resembles proposals that Republicans tried to pass multiple times in the last few months to no avail or support from House Leadership. It is a shame that during all this time, the livelihoods of the American people were compromised because of Speaker Pelosi's partisan agenda. Every time a bipartisan proposal was shot down, a small business had to close its doors, an American worker was left unemployed, and thousands of families were left struggling. "Although this legislation could have been signed into law months ago, I am pleased that we have reached a COVID relief bill thatprovides critical assistance for small businesses, enhances funding for vaccine distribution, and delivers aid for families that need it." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-remarks-on-the-house-passage-of-critical-covid-relief | Diaz-Balart Remarks on the House Passage of Critical COVID Relief | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement regarding the House passage of approximately $900 billion in critical COVID relief. This bill closely resembles proposals that Republicans tried to pass multiple times in the last few months to no avail or support from House Leadership. It is a shame that during all this time, the livelihoods of the American people were compromised because of Speaker Pelosi's partisan agenda. Every time a bipartisan proposal was shot down, a small business had to close its doors, an American worker was left unemployed, and thousands of families were left struggling. Although this legislation could have been signed into law months ago, I am pleased that we have reached a COVID relief bill thatprovides critical assistance for small businesses, enhances funding for vaccine distribution, and delivers aid for families that need it. Click here for additional information on key provisions included in this bill. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-secures-critical-funding-fy2021-bill | Diaz-Balart Secures Critical Funding in FY2021 Bill | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | mariodiazbalart | https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement after the House passage of the FY2021 funding bill. "The FY2021 funding bill includes big wins for our nation and for Florida. This bill prioritizes funding to enhance our infrastructure, support our military and law enforcement, and strengthen our national security. In addition, school safety remains a top priority, Everglades Restoration receives a significant influx of funding, and programs that our farmers and growers rely on will continue. It also supports critical housing programs such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Homeless Assistance Grants. "Attached to this bill are several legislative priorities, including an end to surprise billing— patients will now know the real cost of a scheduled procedure before it takes place. Additionally, this bill includes the final version of WRDA 2020, thereby ensuring the Moore Haven Lock and Dam is renamed in honor of fallen FWC Officer Julian Keen, Jr. "We have already seen Florida capitalize on the programs these bills fund, and with its passage today, our state will continue to benefit from them moving forward." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-secures-critical-funding-in-fy2021-bill | Diaz-Balart Secures Critical Funding in FY2021 Bill | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement after the House passage of the FY2021 funding bill. The FY2021 funding bill includes big wins for our nation and for Florida. This bill prioritizes funding to enhance our infrastructure, support our military and law enforcement, and strengthen our national security. In addition, school safety remains a top priority, Everglades Restoration receives a significant influx of funding, and programs that our farmers and growers rely on will continue. It also supports critical housing programs such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Homeless Assistance Grants. Attached to this bill are several legislative priorities, including an end to surprise billing patients will now know the real cost of a scheduled procedure before it takes place. Additionally, this bill includes the final version of WRDA 2020, thereby ensuring the Moore Haven Lock and Dam is renamed in honor of fallen FWC Officer Julian Keen, Jr. We have already seen Florida capitalize on the programs these bills fund, and with its passage today, our state will continue to benefit from them moving forward. Congressman Diaz-Balart, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, was successful in including the following items in the 2021 appropriations omnibus. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/el-proyecto-de-ley-de-alivio-del-covid-19-incluye-la-soluci-n-de-d-az | El proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19 incluye la solucin de Daz-Balart a una discrepancia en la Ley CARES | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C.El congresista Mario Daz-Balart (FL-25) emiti la siguiente declaracin con respecto a su provision la cual fue incluida en el nuevo proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19 que permite a los ciudadanos estadounidenses y residentes legales permanentes recibir cheques de estmulo incluso si estn casados con un inmigrante indocumentado. La actual Ley CARES especifica que los contribuyentes que presenten un Nmero de Identificacin Personal de Contribuyente (ITIN), en lugar de un Nmero de Seguro Social (SSN), no son elegibles para el Pago de Impacto Econmico. El IRS asigna un ITIN a los extranjeros no residentes y residentes que no son elegibles para recibir Nmeros de Seguro Social o estn en proceso de solicitar estatus legal. Esta disposicin de la Ley CARES tambin se aplica a los titulares de ITIN que presenten sus impuestos conjuntamente con un ciudadano estadounidense o un cnyuge residente permanente legal; pero en este caso el ciudadano estadounidense o un cnyuge residente permanente legal tampoco es elegible para recibir el pago de impacto econmico, para ellos o sus hijos. En junio, el congresista Daz-Balart present laLey de Equidad de Pago por el Impacto Econmicopara abordar esta discrepancia dentro de la Ley CARES al permitir que todos aquellos con un SSN vlido y que cumplan con los requisitos de ingresos reciban el Pago de Impacto Econmico y el crdito tributario por hijos, si sus hijos cumplen con los criterios actuales. Como he dicho antes, no hay razn para justificar por qu un ciudadano estadounidense o un residente legal permanente debe ser excluido de recibir un beneficio destinado a los estadounidenses simplemente por el estado legal de un cnyuge. Estoy encantado de ver que esta provision se tom en consideracin en este nuevo proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19, y espero ver el gran impacto que esto tendr para ayudar al pueblo estadounidense. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/el-proyecto-de-ley-de-alivio-del-covid-19-incluye-la-solucion-de-diaz | El proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19 incluye la solución de Díaz-Balart a una discrepancia en la Ley CARES | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | mariodiazbalart | https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.––El congresista Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-25) emitió la siguiente declaración con respecto a su provision la cual fue incluida en el nuevo proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19 que permite a los ciudadanos estadounidenses y residentes legales permanentes recibir cheques de estímulo incluso si están casados con un inmigrante indocumentado. La actual Ley CARES especifica que los contribuyentes que presenten un Número de Identificación Personal de Contribuyente (ITIN), en lugar de un Número de Seguro Social (SSN), no son elegibles para el Pago de Impacto Económico. El IRS asigna un ITIN a los extranjeros no residentes y residentes que no son elegibles para recibir Números de Seguro Social o están en proceso de solicitar estatus legal. Esta disposición de la Ley CARES también se aplica a los titulares de ITIN que presenten sus impuestos conjuntamente con un ciudadano estadounidense o un cónyuge residente permanente legal; pero en este caso el ciudadano estadounidense o un cónyuge residente permanente legal tampoco es elegible para recibir el pago de impacto económico, para ellos o sus hijos. En junio, el congresista Díaz-Balart presentó la Ley de Equidad de Pago por el Impacto Económicopara abordar esta discrepancia dentro de la Ley CARES al permitir que todos aquellos con un SSN válido y que cumplan con los requisitos de ingresos reciban el Pago de Impacto Económico y el crédito tributario por hijos, si sus hijos cumplen con los criterios actuales. "Como he dicho antes, no hay razón para justificar por qué un ciudadano estadounidense o un residente legal permanente debe ser excluido de recibir un beneficio destinado a los estadounidenses simplemente por el estado legal de un cónyuge. Estoy encantado de ver que esta provision se tomó en consideración en este nuevo proyecto de ley de alivio del COVID-19, y espero ver el gran impacto que esto tendrá para ayudar al pueblo estadounidense". | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-votes-pass-emergency-covid-relief-bill | Soto Votes to Pass Emergency COVID Relief Bill | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Darren Soto | S001200 | soto.house.gov | soto | https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | Accelerated Vaccine Distribution: Democrats secured billions in urgently needed funds to accelerate the free and equitable distribution of safe vaccines to as many Americans as possible. Stimulus Payments: Democrats secured another round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult or child. Extended Unemployment Benefits: Democrats averted the sudden expiration of Unemployment Insurance benefits for millions and added a $300 per week UI and lengthened the number of weeks an unemployed worker can receive benefits by 11 weeks. Housing Assistance: Democrats secured emergency rental assistance and an eviction moratorium. Food Assistance: Democrats secured a 15 percent increase to SNAP and boosted child nutrition benefits to help relieve the historic hunger crisis that has left up to 17 million children food insecure. Relief for Small Businesses: Democrats secured critical funding and policy changes to help small businesses, including minority-owned businesses, and nonprofits recover from the pandemic. The agreement includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivable PPP loans, expanded PPP eligibility for nonprofits and local newspapers, TV and radio broadcasters, key modifications to PPP to serve the smallest businesses and struggling non-profits and better assist independent restaurants, and includes $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions. The agreement also includes $20 billion for targeted EIDL Grantswhich are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street. Key Tax Benefits for Struggling Families: The agreement helps ensure that families who faced unemployment or reduced wages during the pandemic are able to receive a strong tax credit based on their 2019 income, preserving these vital income supports for vulnerable families. Help for Education, Child Care & Students: The agreement provides $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including support for HVAC repair and replacement to mitigate virus transmission and reopen… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://stephaniemurphy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1558 | House Passes COVID Relief Bill that Includes Major Murphy Initiative to Keep Businesses Open and Save Jobs | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Stephanie Murphy | M001202 | stephaniemurphy.house.gov | legacy | House Passes COVID Relief Bill that Includes Major Murphy Initiative to Keep Businesses Open and Save Jobs Bipartisan bill also includes Murphy measures to help teachers, protect unemployed workers, and strengthen democracy and rule of law in Venezuela f t # e Washington, December 21, 2020 WASHINGTONThe U.S. House of Representatives today approved COVID-19 relief legislation that includes numerous bipartisan measures spearheaded by U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy of Winter Park, Fla. Most notably, it includes the core of Murphy's bill to extend and enhance the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC), which helps businesses retain and rehire workers. Murphy spent the last eight months leading this legislative initiative and building a broad bipartisan coalition behind ERTC expansion. While it took far too long and it is far from perfect, this bipartisan bill ensures American families, workers, and businesses receive immediate assistance after months of partisan bickering and inaction in Congress. I'm proud to have successfully included my bipartisan initiative to expand the employee retention tax credit, which has been proven to help workers and businesses, said Murphy. I'll keep fighting to provide additional support to help our country get through this pandemic. Other Murphy-led measures in the COVID relief bill, which also funds the federal government for the rest of the fiscal year, include: Murphy's bipartisanbill to empower states like Florida to allow workers who received overpayments of federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) to retain those payments, if the worker was not at fault for the overpayment and if making the worker repay would cause them severe economic hardship. Murphy's bipartisan bill to enable K through 12 educators to take a federal tax deduction, of up to $250, if they… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://steube.house.gov/media/press-releases/steube-votes-against-trillion-dollar-politicized-spending-bill | Steube Votes Against Trillion Dollar Politicized Spending Bill | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Greg Steube | S001214 | steube.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representative Greg Steube today released the following statement after voting against this year's Consolidated Appropriations Act: "This so-called relief bill fails to target the needs of citizens in our District and fails to bring much-needed reliefto our fellow countrymen. Instead of addressing the economic suffering of Americans, Democrats have run the clock down so debate and meaningfulcompromiseis impossible. Their solution is to manipulate this process to include their radical agenda of defunding ICE, elements of the Green New Deal and to skyrocket unnecessary federal spending. We are left with a choice - give in again or reject this misguided legislation as a signal that we demand targeted aid for our citizens." Instead of providing relief to those in need, this legislation would defund critical agencies like ICE, continue to incentivize keeping people home from work and students home from school, and would raise the deficit to the highest levels in history. The legislation included a $1.4 trillion omnibus spending package, along with an additional $900 billion COVID relief package, totaling as much as $2.3 trillion of taxpayer money. With the United States already facing $27.4 trillion of debt, this legislation would add to the problem, all while: Encouraging Americans to rely on unemployment insurance instead of returning to the workforce; Increasing dependency on SNAP monthly benefits; Defunding critical security agencies, like ICE; Allowing schools to receive extra funding while they remain closed and hamper the development of America's children; Bailing out the failing U.S. Postal Service and allowing them to not repay the prior $10 billion loan from the CARES Act; Lacking any liability protections for businesses, schools, universities and churches, thus further encouraging ongoing COVID-19 closures; Giving concessions to the radical progressive climate change agenda; Extending tax credits solely designed to benefit the wealthy; Further burdening future generations of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=023860C8-97E2-4CA9-9EB1-82F45E3D6268 | Webster: Targeted Assistance Is Coming | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Daniel Webster | W000806 | webster.house.gov | webster | https://webster.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | Washington, DC – Today, after months of delay, Speaker Pelosi finally agreed to, and allowed a vote on a COVID aid package that has bipartisan support, along with a FY2021 appropriations bill. The COVID Relief package provides about $900 billion in assistance but will cost $325 billion thanks to Republicans insisting that Congress use existing, unused federal funds. This is a huge accomplishment and an all-around win for COVID-19 impacted Americans and all taxpayers. “After spending months playing political games and trying to use the Coronavirus pandemic to push through their socialist agenda, last night Democrats finally caved and agreed to a COVID-19 relief bill that is not much different than proposals Republicans offered starting last summer,” Rep. Webster said. “While I am disappointed by the process and timeline that it took to get to this point, I am pleased it extends the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and allows small business owners to deduct PPP expenses. PPP has been a lifeline for countless small businesses and under this bill those still experiencing severe revenue reductions can apply for a second loan. It also includes money to get students back into the classroom and to ensure that the COVID-19 vaccine is available as soon as possible – to all who want it. “As a result of these and many other good provisions, I support this critical legislation. In addition to providing targeted relief to those impacted most severely by COVID-19, the package includes robust funding for the Departments of Defense and Veterans’ Affairs to ensure our men and women in uniform have the resources they need to protect and defend our great nation and our Veterans receive the best care possible. “When government blocks an American’s ability to work and earn a living it government has a responsibility to provide assistance to these individuals. This targeted relief aids businesses and hardworking Americans still trying to recover from government required lockdowns. I remain frustrated that Congress continuously emb… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-washington-broken | Sen. Rick Scott: Washington is Broken | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Rick Scott | S001217 | www.rickscott.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, Senator Rick Scott released the below statement on today's multi-trillion-dollar spending package. Senator Rick Scottsaid, Early this afternoon, we were finally provided the text of the combined $1.4 trillion omnibus spending bill and $900 billion COVID relief bill. It is almost 5,600 pages long and we're expected to vote on it tonight. Who in their right mind thinks that this is a responsible way of governing? This crisis has devastated American small businesses and American workers and I support many of the COVID-related provisions to boost small businesses, prevent further layoffs and enhance unemployment assistance provisions that are necessary because of the recklessness of the Chinese Communist Party and the overzealous shutdowns by politicians here in America who do not know what it is like to struggle for money or for work.I'm also glad this package does not include state bailouts, which I've been fighting for months, and makes reforms to the Federal Reserve,which provides further protections to ensure taxpayer dollars are not wasted. But, in classic Washington style, vital programs are being attached to an omnibus spending bill that mortgages our children and grandchildren's futures without even giving members a chance to read it.We are not spending money we have in the bank or anticipate we will collect in taxes.Washington doesn't seem to understand that new spending todaywill be paid for by increased federal debt and result ina tax increase on families down the road. We have to stop operating this way; there is no excuse for the way Washington treats the American taxpayers.I've repeatedly voted against enormous and wasteful spending bills. The easy route is simply to go along as Congress continues to do harm to future generations of Americans, but I will not be a part of it. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=B88F56EC-543D-41C1-97C9-5BC810E4C199 | Rubio Condemns CCPs Broken Promises on Anniversary of Signing of the Sino-British Joint Declaration | 2020-12-19 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) released the following statement on the 36th anniversary of the signing of the Sino-British Joint Declaration on the Question of Hong Kong in Beijing. This United Nations-registered treaty committed the People's Republic of China (PRC) to afford Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy, allow local elections, and provide legal protections for the rights and freedoms of all residents.In 1984, Beijing promised that the social, economic, and political conditions that made Hong Kong far freer than mainland China would remain unchanged for 50 years, but after only 23 years, the Chinese Communist Party has crushed Hong Kong's long-cherished freedom and autonomy, Rubio said. On the anniversary of the signing of the Sino-British Joint Declaration, we should remember the long trail of Beijing's broken promises. The CCP will continue to violate any agreement, treaty, or law necessary to maintain or expand its power. Any future administration should be clear-eyed about the futility of entering into future agreements with the CCP. The U.S. must continue to stand with Hong Kongers and advance policies that counter the CCP's aggression and promote Hong Kong's autonomy.Rubio is the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations' Subcommittee that oversees human rights and is a member of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0498277E-353F-44BE-8D60-A617DB3EEAC0 | Rubio on The Ingraham Angle | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined The Ingraham Angle to discuss Chinese espionage, Chinese interference in the presidential election, and the cyber attacks against the U.S. government. See below for highlights and watch the full interview here. On Chinese espionage: We've been talking about this for a long time. I remember four years ago when I started going after the Confucius Institutes we now have none left in Florida we got a lot of pushback because universities would say this is just a group that teaches Chinese language, or these are just people that sponsor trips. And when you explain to people that the Chinese are the most holistic, whole of society threat this country has ever faced in terms of espionage they will try to create relationships with a small town mayor who they think may one day grow up to be a governor or senator, a U.S. member of Congress, they will cultivate business relationships. They use businesspeople, they take them to China, they let them make some money, then they unleash them back in the U.S. and use them as lobbyists here in this country for their interests and against our national interest. They are in academia. You talked about students, especially at the graduate level, a lot of these students that are spying don't consider themselves spies. They're here. They're serving their country. Many are even linked to the military. Their researchers. They steal secrets and take them back. And then you've got American researchers who have openly sold their research, and oftentimes leaving to China with it, other times just selling it to them. And in many cases, it wasn't illegal or wasn't prosecuted. This is a big, big challenge. We have a lot of work ahead of us. On China's interference in the 2020 presidential election: "Months ago we started saying the fact that China wanted to or had intentions to at least be in a position to interfere in elections ... We also know that they had people out there trying to work and inject things in the publ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0F7E79C9-A5FB-4ED1-B64C-B5631EBD4926 | Rubio Joins Scott, Colleagues in Resolution Defending Right to Freely Exercise Religion | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined Rick Scott (R-FL) and Senate colleagues in introducing a resolution defending the right to freely exercise one's religion, as protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. In addition to Rubio and Scott, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Roger Wicker (R-MS), John Boozman (R-AR), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), David Perdue (R-GA), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Tom Cotton (R-AR), John Hoeven (R-ND), Mike Braun (R-IN), Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), and James Lankford (R-OK) cosponsored the resolution, which is supported by the Family Research Council and Alliance Defending Freedom. The full text of the resolution is below. Whereas the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States clearly, plainly, and unequivocally states that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof''; Whereas the constitutional protection of this bedrock principle of religious liberty was extended to the actions of the several States through the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States; Whereas, despite the clear prohibition against laws infringing upon the free exercise of religion, houses of worship and religious organizations have been frequent targets of asymmetric restrictions by State and local government officials during the coronavirus pandemic; Whereas irrespective of compliance with mask mandates, social distancing, and other protective measures to limit the spread of the coronavirus, houses of worship and religious organizations have been subjected to size restrictions or outright bans on in-person gatherings which severely infringe upon the right of their members to freely exercise their religion; Whereas, while houses of worship and religious organizations are subjected to severe restrictions under the guise of limiting the transmission of the coronavirus, businesses and secular activities enjoy substant… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=172A093E-1C92-4A54-993F-01499B335DFF | Rubio Names Aunt Catfishs on the River of Florida as the Senate Small Business of the Week | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, named Aunt Catfish's On the River of Port Orange, Florida as the U.S. Senate Small Business of the Week.Rubio released the following video message to congratulate Aunt Catfish's on the Riveras the Senate Small Business of the Week. A broadcast quality version can be found here.Hello, I'm Senator Marco Rubio, the Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.And today, it is my honor to recognize Aunt Catfish's On the River of Port Orange, Florida as the Senate Small Business of the Week.Jim Galbreath founded Aunt Catfish's in 1979, following in his mother's footsteps into the restaurant industry.Today, this family-owned small business is run by his son Brandon, who started working there as a teenager.Through his service with the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Port Orange COVID-19 Reopening Task Force, Brandon has proven himself to be a tireless advocate for his local small business community.Like many of Florida's small businesses, especially those in the restaurant industry, Aunt Catfish's experienced a drop in revenue due to the coronavirus shutdowns.But the restaurant was approved for a Paycheck Protection Program loan, a small business relief program I was proud to be the author of.And as a result, they were able to keep their employees paid while maintaining the highest health and safety standards for their customers.So congratulations to the entire team at Aunt Catfish's On the RIver on being named the Senate Small Business of the Week! I look forward to your continued success and your community leadership!As Chairman of the… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6C5A9E83-E052-4643-B2D7-540617C92809 | Rubio, Peters, Tillis Applaud House Passage of Bipartisan FACE Act | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) applauded the House passage of S. 979, which he introduced in April 2019 with Senators Ron Johnson (R-WI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Thom Tillis (R-NC). The Federal Advance Contracts Enhancement (FACE) Act passed the Senate unanimously on November 7, 2019. With today's action by the House of Representatives, where the bill passed 386-1, the legislation now heads to the President for signature.The FACE Act will require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to ensure more effective use and management of its advance contracts for goods and services. The bill requires federal preparedness actions to be coordinated with states and localities to prevent gaps in recovery efforts from occurring. A one-pager of the bill is available here.After the past few hurricane seasons, which produced devastation in Florida, and its neighboring states, I thank my colleagues in the House for passing this important bill that will better assist in responding to future storms, Rubio said. The FACE Act will ensure that federal response will be more effective and efficient, and I urge President Trump to swiftly sign it into law.Planning ahead to respond to natural disasters can help streamline recovery efforts and save taxpayers in Michigan and across the country millions of dollars in the long run, Peters, Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, said. I was proud to work with my colleagues on these bipartisan and commonsense reforms to help communities be better prepared to respond when disaster strikes and ensure they can quickly access the resources they need for a speedy recovery.North Carolina has faced extensive recovery … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=D9CA5B3F-385C-4D41-9F43-4D38E4EEC4AA | Rubio, Duckworth, Durbin Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Fix Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Overpayment Issue | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced bipartisan legislation that would help fix an error that caused individuals receiving Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) to forcibly repay, while potentially unemployed, overpayments they received unknowingly. The Relief for Working Families Act would provide states discretion to waive PUA overpayments for individuals who acted in good faith and played no role in securing surplus benefits. U.S. Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and Stephanie Murphy (D-FL) introduced companion legislation in the House.American families are struggling with lost jobs, home schooling, and more amid a global pandemic, and the last thing they need is to find out they owe money to their state because of a bureaucratic error, Rubio said. This legislation gives states the necessary flexibility to ensure individuals will not be forced to repay unemployment overpayments that are not their fault. It will be one less worry for hardworking families during these uncertain times.Hardworking Americans already struggling during this pandemic shouldn't be forced to pay for a bureaucratic error they had nothing to do with, Duckworth said. I'm proud to introduce this legislation that will ensure working families don't bear this additional burden of financial distress and states have the tools and flexibility they need to remedy this problem for thousands of Americans across the country.No one should have to pay back thousands of dollars they thought they were getting in good faith, Durbin said. Our bill gives States flexibility to provide relief to families that are in need and fixes this error for countles… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://crist.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2224 | Crist Receives First Dose of COVID Vaccine, Thanks Healthcare Heroes | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Charlie Crist | C001111 | crist.house.gov | legacy | Crist Receives First Dose of COVID Vaccine, Thanks Healthcare Heroes f t # e Washington, DC, December 18, 2020 Washington, DC U.S. Representative Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) released a statement announcing that per the recommendation of Congress' Office of the Attending Physician, he received the COVID-19 vaccine this afternoon. As the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine begins across the country, I am grateful to be able to do my part to stop the spread of this terrible disease by receiving the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine today,said Rep. Crist. This vaccine is a true medical miracle that signals the light at the end of the tunnel we have all been desperately praying for since March. Part of my job as Representative involves flying back and forth from Tampa Bay and Washington D.C. and gathering on the Floor of the House to cast votes on your behalf. Getting vaccinated helps me perform this essential government duty. Even so I will continue to follow CDC guidelines to curb the spread of the virus and will continue wearing a mask and practicing social distancing, as I encourage all Americans to do. I am eternally grateful to our frontline doctors, nurses, and scientists who made this possible, and I remain as optimistic as ever as vaccine doses get rolled out across America. f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E1F1BAE7-C017-445C-B9C8-7E04BD91DADD | Mast Statement On Congress Receiving The COVID-19 Vaccine Before The American People | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Brian Mast | M001199 | mast.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) released the following statement after Speaker Pelosi stated that she and the rest of Congress would receive the COVID-19 vaccine before the vast majority of the American people: Leaders eat last; it's one of the first lessons a soldier learns as early as basic training. Speaker Pelosi apparently never learned this lessonasking Americans to wait to get vaccinated while Congress cuts the line is the opposite of leadership. Congress needs to stop treating itself as a special political class, and the mere suggestion that Members of Congress are in any way more important than the very people who gave us the privilege of serving in Congress is appalling. Being for the people must always mean putting the people before ourselves, which is why every single American should be able to access the coronavirus vaccine before any Member of Congress. You can read the full announcement about the availability of the COVID-19 vaccine for Members of Congress here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-urges-committee-energy-and-commerce-investigate-florida-covid-reporting | Soto Urges Committee on Energy and Commerce to Investigate Florida COVID Reporting | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Darren Soto | S001200 | soto.house.gov | soto | https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) co-led a letter with Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) to Chairman Frank Pallone requesting the House Committee on Energy and Commerce investigate possible irregularities in the State of Florida's daily COVID-19 death tally. The letter comes after it was reported that a possible inconsistent pattern in the calculation of deaths emerged before the general election. "To maintain the highest level of safety, the residents of Florida must have complete transparency on the methodology and calculation of the daily COVID death tally," wrote the Members. "As cases surge nationwide, Floridians must be assured of truthful reporting by their Department of Health." Changes to the system came within three days of Governor DeSantis's announcement of audits of all COVID suspected deaths before inclusion in the daily numbers. It appears the State of Florida Health Department excluded the long-backlogged deaths in daily death counts during election season beginning October 24, only to resume inclusion of these deaths on November 17, 2020. The letter was signed by Reps. Alcee L. Hastings, Ted Deutch, Charlie Crist, Kathy Castor, Debbie Mucarsel-Powell and Al Lawson, Jr.. The full letter can be read here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://stephaniemurphy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1553 | Murphy Urges House Leadership to Request House-wide Intelligence Briefing on Suspected Russian Hack | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Stephanie Murphy | M001202 | stephaniemurphy.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTONToday, U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy, a former national security specialist at the Pentagon, sent a letter urging House leadership to schedule a classified, bipartisan briefing for Members of Congress regarding the recently-revealed cyberattack on the networks of the federal government and much of corporate America. The attack is widely believed to have been the work of a Russian intelligence agency. Public reports about the consequences of this attack for U.S. national security paint a very grim picture, wrote Murphy in her letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer. A classified briefing by the relevant federal agencies would enable Members to better understand the nature and extent of the attack, the precise parties responsible, whether more could have been done to prevent this attack and can be done to prevent future attacks, and the range of options that are available to the United States to appropriately respond to the attack." Murphyhas called for increased transparency in the event of election interferenceby a foreign adversary and is the author ofbipartisan legislation, theALERTS Act, that would require notification to appropriate members of Congress, relevant state and local officials, and potentially affected voters when an election system is breached and voter information may have been compromised. Full text of the letter can be found here and below. Dear Speaker Pelosi, Leader McCarthy, and Leader Hoyer: I write to respectfully request that you schedule a classified, bipartisan briefing for Members of Congress regarding the recently-revealed cyberattack on the networks of the federal government and much of corporate America, an attack that is widely believed to have been the work of a Russian intelligence agency. Public reports about the consequences of this attack for U.S. national security paint a very grim picture. A classified briefing by the relevant federal agencies would enable Members to better understand the nature an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://steube.house.gov/media/press-releases/steube-resume-fl-17-mvp-program-honor-outstanding-service-community | Steube to Resume FL-17 “MVP” Program to Honor Outstanding Service in the Community | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Greg Steube | S001214 | steube.house.gov | legacy | OKEECHOBEE, FLA. U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced that he will resume the FL-17 MVP program to recognize and honor outstanding service around the community. The volunteers and community heroes here in the 17th District are what makes our community and the state of Florida so special, Steube said. As we begin to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to bring our neighbors together and recognize the heroes who dedicate themselves to bettering our community. The purpose of this award is to recognize the unsung heroes across our district as they display extraordinary dedication to make a difference in our community. To thank them for their work, MVPs will be presented with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol and publicly recognized in Steube's weekly newsletter. To be eligible for the award, the recipient must have engaged in an outstanding act of service and be a resident of the 17th Congressional District. Those wishing to submit a nomination can do so at Steube.House.gov/FL17MVP. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-to-resume-fl-17-mvp-program-to-honor-outstanding-service-in-the-community/ | Steube to Resume FL-17 “MVP” Program to Honor Outstanding Service in the Community | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | W. Gregory Steube | S001214 | steube.house.gov | steube | https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ | scraper | Steube to Resume FL-17 “MVP” Program to Honor Outstanding Service in the Community OKEECHOBEE, FLA. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced that he will resume the FL-17 MVP program to recognize and honor outstanding service around the community. “The volunteers and community heroes here in the 17th District are what makes our community and the state of Florida so special,” Steube said. “As we begin to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to bring our neighbors together and recognize the heroes who dedicate themselves to bettering our community.” The purpose of this award is to recognize the unsung heroes across our district as they display extraordinary dedication to make a difference in our community. To thank them for their work, MVPs will be presented with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol and publicly recognized in Steube’s weekly newsletter. To be eligible for the award, the recipient must have engaged in an outstanding act of service and be a resident of the 17th Congressional District. Those wishing to submit a nomination can do so at Steube.House.gov/FL17MVP. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2552 | Fla. Cong. Democrats Demand DeSantis Disclose COVID Task Force Reports, Stop Suppressing Public Health Info | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Debbie Wasserman Schultz | W000797 | wassermanschultz.house.gov | wassermanschultz | https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Washington DC – Florida Congressional Democrats today called on Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to release undisclosed weekly White House Coronavirus Task Force Reports and quit ignoring the urgent health recommendations they call for, and once again, they demanded that the governor stop manipulating COVID-19 health data – all of which compromises public safety and undermines the vital credibility needed to aggressively confront this deadly pandemic. Florida media have continued to uncover a long-running pattern by DeSantis of withholding and manipulating COVID-19 data. The Orlando Sentinel recently sued DeSantis to release all the weekly reports, and after relenting to make two of them public, the Orlando newspaper reported that the governor had largely ignored the report’s recommendations. In an equally troubling report, the South Florida Sun Sentinel reported that the state suddenly and temporarily paused reporting data concerning backlogged COVID-related death totals around the presidential election. “By failing to publicly disclose the Task Force reports in a timely manner, and purposefully creating a reporting gap in Florida's coronavirus death data, your Administration continues to demonstrate a lack of transparency without reason or justification,” the Florida Democratic Members of Congress wrote in a letter co-led by Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) and Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09). “These actions continue to erode the public’s trust in your ability to ensure the health and safety of Floridians.” Signers on the letter also include Reps.: Reps. Alcee Hastings, FL-20, Kathy Castor (FL-14), Ted Deutch (FL-22), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Lois Frankel (FL-21), Charlie Crist (FL-13), Al Lawson (FL-05), Stephanie Murphy (FL-07) and Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (FL-26). See the entire letter below: The Honorable Ron DeSantis Office of Governor State of Florida, The Capitol 400 S. Monroe St. Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001 Governor DeSantis: We write out of concern with the ongoing and purposeful lack o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-menendez-senate-dems-block-sen-rick-scotts-resolution-reaffirming-commitment-first-amendment | Sen. Menendez, Senate Dems Block Sen. Rick Scott’s Resolution Reaffirming Commitment to the First Amendment and Religious Freedom | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Rick Scott | S001217 | www.rickscott.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor to ask unanimous consent for hisresolution defending the First Amendment to the United States Constitution the right to freely exercise one's religion. This resolution, also sponsored by Senators Tillis, Wicker, Boozman, Cramer, Perdue, Rounds, Rubio, Blackburn, Cotton, Hoeven, Braun, Loeffler, Cruz, Hyde-Smith, Lankford, Barrasso, Paul, and Daines, was blocked by Senator Menendez. Senator Rick Scottsaid, Religious liberty is our first freedom under the Constitution of the United States. Every elected official takes an oath to support and defend our Constitution and the rights enshrined within it. We've seen liberal governors and mayors across the nation go after religious institutions throughout the pandemic, so my resolution simply reaffirms the right to freely practice religion. It is absolutely shameful that Senator Menendez would not only lie about what is happening in his state, but also refuse to stand with houses of worship, who are entitled to the Constitutional right to freely exercise their religion, by blocking my resolution today. I take my oath of office seriously, and I urge each of my colleagues to do the same. We know many Democrats don't respect the religious freedoms of Americans, but this is a new low. We won't let them chip away at our rights, and we will never stop fighting for the liberties of all Americans. FACT CHECK: Senator Menendez claimed the part of Senator Scott's resolution that states New Jersey prohibited or severely restricted indoor services by houses of worship because they were not deemed essential,' but commercial establishments like marijuana dispensaries and liquor stores were permitted to remain open was inaccurate. That's a lie. Watch the exchange HERE or below. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-applauds-commerce-department-decision-add-chinese-drone-company-entity-list | Sen. Rick Scott Applauds Commerce Department Decision to Add Chinese Drone Company to Entity List | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Rick Scott | S001217 | www.rickscott.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement applauding the decision by the U.S. Department of Commerce to add 77 entities, including Chinese-made drone company DJI, to the Entity List for actions deemed contrary to the national security or foreign policy interest of the United States. These include entities in China involved in military-civil fusion and destabilizing military modernization activities, including entities that supported the militarization and unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea, entities that enable human rights abuses, and entities that engaged in the theft of U.S. trade secrets. For more than a year, Senator Scott has been warning about the threat Chinese-made drones may have on national security. Senator Scott and colleagues introduced the American Security Drone Act to prohibit the U.S. Government from purchasing drones manufactured in countries identified as national security threats, like Iran and China. Senator Rick Scott said, For more than a year, I've fought to prevent the U.S. Government from purchasing technology, like drones, with American tax dollars from Chinese companies backed by their government. I've had countless discussions with the Administration and my colleagues on the risks of buying drones from DJI and other Chinese-backed companies, and the threat these drones pose to our national security. I'm glad the Commerce Department made the decision today to include DJI in its Entity List. We can no longer turn a blind eye to Communist China and allow their technology into some of the most critical operations of the U.S. Government. Now more than ever, we must pass my American Security Drone Act to protect our national security. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/sen-rick-scott-australian-prime-minister-us-and-australia-must-work-together-combat-communist | Sen. Rick Scott to Australian Prime Minister: U.S. and Australia Must Work Together to Combat Communist China’s Aggression | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Rick Scott | S001217 | www.rickscott.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison thanking him for Australia's efforts to fight against Communist China's quest for world domination, and affirming the United States' support as the two nations continue to stand strong against Communist China. Read the Senator's letter HERE or below. December 18, 2020 The Honorable Scott Morrison Prime Minister of Australia Parliament House Canberra ACT 2600 Dear Prime Minister Morrison: I want to thank you for your strong, ongoing efforts to stand against Communist China and General Secretary Xi. I support your decision to fight against their unfair and manipulative trade practices, and to condemn the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) vile, online attacks against Australians. The United States stands with Australia as you continue to fight against Communist China's aggression. We must work together to curb the threat Beijing poses regionally and globally. We know the CCP is committing a genocide against the Uyghurs, harvesting organs of the Falun Gong, and forcing hundreds of thousands into mass labor camps in Tibet. They steal technology and refuse to open their markets to foreign goods as required by their agreement with the World Trade Organization. We've seen them imprison peaceful protestors in Hong Kong and label Hong Kongers who advocate for basic civil liberties as national security threats. The CCP continues to militarize the South China Sea and is eager to expand its territorial claims in the region. I appreciate your support of an international inquiry into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic. Beijing must be held accountable for the lies and misinformation that led to the spread of the coronavirus, which devastated the world economy and killed millions of people. I also appreciate your decision to ban the rollout of Huawei's 5G networks into Australia, as well as your continued condemnation of human rights abuses in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, and the CCP's threatening behavior toward Taiwan. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402478 | Hastings Fights to Put a Stop to Imminent Offshore Drilling Project | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | (Fort Lauderdale, FL) Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) led a letter to Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Bahamas, Dr. Hubert Alexander Minnis and the Minister of the Environment and Housing, Romauld Sotario Ferreira, expressing opposition to theBahamas Petroleum Company's (BPC) offshore drilling project, the Perseverance No. 1 oil well, off the coast of The Bahamas, a mere 150 miles from South Florida. The letter urges the government of The Bahamas to reconsider allowing the BPC drilling project to continue, given the immediate and long-term impacts an oil spill and carbon emissions have on natural ecosystems, local economies, and the global climate crisis. This letter has been endorsed by Oceana. Joining Hastings in sending the letter include: Representatives Ted Deutch (D-FL), Gerald E. Connolly (D-VA), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Darren Soto (D-FL), Charlie Crist (D-FL), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Lois Frankel (D-FL), Nydia M. Velzquez (D-NY), Francis Rooney (R-FL), A. Donald McEachin (D-VA), Al Lawson (D-FL), Alan Lowenthal (D-CA), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Abigail D. Spanberger (D-VA), David Scott (D-GA), Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D-FL), and Donna E. Shalala (D-FL). (Please find the letter below and attached): December 17, 2020 The Honorable Dr. Hubert Alexander Minnis, ON, M.P. Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas Office of the Prime Minister Sir Cecil Wallace Whitfield Centre Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas The Honorable Romauld Sotario Ferreira Minister of the Environment and Housing Charlotte House, Second Floor Shirley & Charlotte St. Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas Via electronic correspondence. Dear Prime Minister Minnis and Minister Ferreira, We write regarding the Bahamas Petroleum Company's (BPC) offshore drilling project, the Perseverance No. 1 oil well, off the coast of The Bahamas. We believe you should reconsider the agreement established between your government and BPC to protect the beauty and longevity of our fragile and shared ecosystems, the economies… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://alceehastings.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402479 | Hastings, Lee, McGovern, Frankel, and Deutch Call for an Immediate Boost to Hunger Relief for Struggling Families in COVID Relief Package | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | Senate | FL | Alcee Hastings | H000324 | alceehastings.house.gov | legacy | (Washington, D.C.) Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL), along with Representatives Barbara Lee (D-CA), James McGovern (D-MA), Lois Frankel (D-FL), and Ted Deutch (D-FL), led 62 of their colleagues in sending a letter urging House and Senate Leadership to include a funding increase for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other nutritional programs in the upcoming COVID-19 relief package under negotiation. As our nation faces a hunger crisis worsened by the growing toll this pandemic has taken, $5.5 billion in emergency food aid is dwindling despite the increasing number of families struggling to put food on the table. Bolstering federal nutrition programs like SNAP will provide short-term hunger relief, while preventing long-term health and economic harm to our most vulnerable. (Please find the letter below and attached). The letter was endorsed by: Feeding America, Food Research and Action Center (FRAC), MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, Feeding South Florida, California Association of Food Banks, United Way of Palm Beach County, Alameda County Community Food Banks. December 17, 2020 The Honorable Nancy Pelosi Speaker of the House of Representatives H-232, U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. 20515 The Honorable Mitch McConnell Senate Majority Leader S-230, U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. 20510 The Honorable Steny Hoyer House Majority Leader H-107, U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. 20515 The Honorable Chuck Schumer Senate Minority Leader S-221, U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. 20510 The Honorable Kevin McCarthy House Majority Leader H-204, U.S. Capitol Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader McConnell, Majority Leader Hoyer, Minority Leader Schumer, and Minority Leader McCarthy: As we navigate simultaneous health and economic crises, we respectfully urge you to increase the maximum Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit by 15 percent for all participants as part of future funding and COVID19 relief legislation. D… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://teddeutch.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402896 | Rep. Deutch, Sen. Cardin Introduce Bill Directing Sec. of State to Address Global Climate Change Crisis | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Ted Deutch | D000610 | teddeutch.house.gov | legacy | Today, U.S. Representative Ted Deutch (FL-22) and U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) introduced legislation requiring the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), to report to Congress on efforts to address the global climate change crisis and improve the agency's energy and resource efficiency. Specifically, the legislation will require the Secretary to report to Congress on the Department's plan underlining the strategic use of the full power of U.S. diplomacy and development tools to address the global climate crisis. This would include an assessment of the global threat of climate change; articulation of the guidelines for international finance flows via public and private sector to promote sustainable development; and the integration of adaption, mitigation, and resiliency activities into climate security, conflict mitigation, economic policy, and geographic policy parameters with a particular focus on the countries and communities most vulnerable to climate change, including women and girls. "Climate change is a global crisis that demands a united global response," saidCongressman Deutch. "The United States must use all of our foreign policy and diplomatic tools, from the State Department to USAID, to confront the global challenges of climate change. This will help ensure President-elect Biden's success in executing foreign policy that leads the global effort to protect our planet. Congress must play an active role in helping to advance these efforts." "As President-elect Biden Prepares to restore U.S. leadership in the fight against climate change, we must ensure that the State Department and USAID implement a coordinated campaign. Developing and implementing a joint strategy, as required by this legislation, will ensure that America's diplomatic corps has a clear game plan to respond to the grave national security threat of climate change," saidSenator Cardin. Text of the legislation can beaccessed here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases-es?ContentRecord_id=1434F550-61A3-4B37-867F-61EDDF22A5A4 | Rubio Habla con Alex Otaola | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Sala de Prensa Inicio Sala de Prensa Sala de Prensa Washington, D.C. El senador estadounidense Marco Rubio (R-FL) habl con Alex Otaola de Cubanos por el Mundo sobre diversos temas de actualidad. Durante su charla, abordaron como la dictadura de Cuba activamente culpa a EE.UU. por la realidad de la isla y sobre cmo una administracin Biden cambiara la poltica del presidente Trump hacia Cuba.Una transcripcin parcial de la entrevista est a continuacin:Con el tema de Cuba y es importante hablar de esto porque yo creo que dentro de Cuba obviamente [hay] un bombardeo constante de parte del rgimen hablando de nosotros. Mira, mi deseo siempre ha sido lo siguiente: poner en manos del pueblo dentro de Cuba, no de la gente en Washington, de ninguna otra parte del mundo, del pueblo dentro de Cuba su propio destino.Y es por eso que el presidente Trump, a nuestra sugerencia, simplemente hizo el siguiente cambio: si eres una compaa controlada por militares cubanos como GAESA-que controla todos los hoteles y todas las grandes empresas que hacen todo el dinero en Cuba, bueno pues no puedes hacer negocios con EE.UU. Si eres alguien independiente, pues entonces s. Y es el gobierno cubano que ha decidido no permitir eso.Y en fin, [el rgimen] no lo quieren permitir obviamente porque la independencia econmica trae independencia poltica, ese es el control..Entonces el pueblo cubano puede decidir qu modelo de gobierno y qu modelo econmico quiere tener. Ese siempre ha sido nuestro inters y siempre lo seguir siendo y estamos buscando la manera de cmo podemos de nuestra parte poder apoyar eso y tratar de llevar eso a cabo.Me alegra mucho ver que se est despertando de nuevo el joven cubano que entiende y … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F5EAA643-8B81-4C4D-9165-121864FAD119 | Rubio Asks Department of Commerce to Answer Questions About Huawei Business Dealings With U.S. Companies | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Press Releases Home Newsroom Press Releases Washington, D.C. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross requesting information concerning Huawei's orders of semiconductors from American companies.I strongly support the actions taken by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) on August 17, 2020, which closed certain loopholes to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) related to Huawei, Rubio wrote. These actions were meant to prevent U.S.-developed technology from being used to undermine our own national security. It has been brought to my attention that Huawei is ordering semiconductors from certain U.S.-based chip companies, or through others stockpiling them, with the intent to ship them in the event that those companies are granted individual export licenses (IVLs), or if Huawei is removed from the Entity List.The full text of the letter is below.Dear Secretary Ross:As you are well versed, due to its ties to the Chinese Communist Party, Huawei continues to pose a significant threat to the U.S. economy, national security, and our critical infrastructure. I strongly support the actions taken by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) on August 17, 2020, which closed certain loopholes to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) related to Huawei. These actions were meant to prevent U.S.-developed technology from being used to undermine our own national security.It has been brought to my attention that Huawei is ordering semiconductors from certain U.S.-based chip companies, or through others stockpiling them, with the intent to ship them in the event that those companies are granted individual export licenses (IVLs), or if Huawei is removed from the Entity List. Accor… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3189 | Democratic Women’s Caucus, Equality Caucus Lead Letter Denouncing Proposed EEOC Title VII Exemption | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Lois Frankel | F000462 | frankel.house.gov | legacy | Today, Democratic Women's Caucus (DWC) Co-Chairs Representatives Jackie Speier (CA-14), Lois Frankel (FL-21), and Brenda Lawrence (MI-14), and Vice Chairs Congresswomen Veronica Escobar (TX-16) and Deb Haaland (NM-01), were joined by Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives David Cicilline (RI-01), Angie Craig (MN-02), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), and Mark Takano (CA-41) in leading 24 members and 2 members-elect on a letter to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Chair Janet Dhillon opposing the recently proposed Updated Compliance Manual on Religious Discrimination and demanding its withdrawal. The letter states in part, The proposed changes would embolden discrimination against women and LGBTQ+ individuals by allowing for-profit entities to ambiguously claim the religious organization exemption to Title VII protections. Specifically, we have strong concerns that these changes will open the doors for employment discrimination based on sex, reproductive health and marital choices, sexual orientation, and gender identity. The letter continues, We are alarmed at this apparent attempt to rush through complex, dangerous changes in the final days of an administration that has spent four years attacking protections for women and the LGBTQ+ community. The EEOC has released a 114-page document with 320 footnotes, governing a very complex area of the law with merely 30 days to comment. In drafting the updated manual, the EEOC failed to engage with minority faith leaders, civil rights organizations, and many other relevant stakeholders. Given the immense harm this update will cause, we urge the EEOC and this administration to immediately withdraw the proposed change in its entirety. The administration should be working to end discrimination in employment, not embolden it. The full text of the letter is available here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3190 | Hastings, Lee, McGovern, Frankel, and Deutch Call for an Immediate Boost to Hunger Relief for Struggling Families in COVID Relief Package | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Lois Frankel | F000462 | frankel.house.gov | legacy | Hastings, Lee, McGovern, Frankel, and Deutch Call for an Immediate Boost to Hunger Relief for Struggling Families in COVID Relief Package f t # e Washington, December 17, 2020 Representative Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL), along with Representatives Barbara Lee (D-CA), James P. McGovern (D-MA), Lois Frankel (D-FL), and Ted Deutch (D-FL), led 62 of their colleagues in sending a letter urging House and Senate Leadership to include a funding increase for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other nutritional programs in the upcoming COVID-19 relief package under negotiation. As our nation faces a hunger crisis worsened by the growing toll this pandemic has taken, $5.5 billion in emergency food aid is dwindling despite the increasing number of families struggling to put food on the table. Bolstering federal nutrition programs like SNAP will provide short-term hunger relief, while preventing long-term health and economic harm to our most vulnerable. (Please find the letter below and attached). The letter was endorsed by: Feeding America, Food Research and Action Center (FRAC), MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, Feeding South Florida, California Association of Food Banks, United Way of Palm Beach County, Alameda County Community Food Banks. ### f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-welcomes-florida-s-approval-to-implement-clean-water-act-cwa | Diaz-Balart Welcomes Floridas Approval to Implement Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 program | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) joined Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler, EPARegion 4 Administrator Mary S. Walker, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Secretary Noah Valenstein, and members of the Florida delegation as they announced that Florida is the first state in more than 25 years to apply for and receive approval to implement a Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 programformally transferring permitting authority from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to the State of Florida for a broad range of water resources within the State. Today's announcement is a tremendous accomplishment for Florida, especially as we continue our Everglades restoration efforts,said U.S. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25). Allowing the state to take over the 404 permitting process will significantly streamline restoration projects, while still protecting the greater environment. I thank Administrator Wheeler and Regional Administrator Walker, as well as all the other key players who worked diligently to make this happen. I have no doubt that we will see the benefits of this decision for years to come. A considerable amount of effort has gone into Florida's assumption of the Clean Water Act 404 program,said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler.Federal authorities don't delegate this type of permit often, but Florida has, beyond question one of the greatest environmental records of any state, and I couldn't be happier that Florida has shown it can meet the strict national standards EPA sets to protect human health and the environment. After a rigorous review, analysis and coordination process, EPA is pleased that the state of Florida will assume responsibility of its Clean Water Act Section 404 program,saidEPARegion 4 Administrator Mary S. Walker.This approval is truly a reflection of the high-level scientific and regulatory expertise of the environmental professionals at the state, federal and tribal levels who ensured a legally and technically sou… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-welcomes-floridas-approval-implement-clean-water-act-cwa | Diaz-Balart Welcomes Florida’s Approval to Implement Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 program | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Mario Diaz-Balart | D000600 | mariodiazbalart.house.gov | mariodiazbalart | https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –– Today, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) joined Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler, EPARegion 4 Administrator Mary S. Walker, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Secretary Noah Valenstein, and members of the Florida delegation as theyannounced that Florida is the first state in more than 25 years to apply for and receive approval to implement a Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 program—formally transferring permitting authority from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to the State of Florida for a broad range of water resources within the State. "Today's announcement is a tremendous accomplishment for Florida, especially as we continue our Everglades restoration efforts,"said U.S. Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25). "Allowing the state to take over the 404 permitting process will significantly streamline restoration projects, while still protecting the greater environment. I thank Administrator Wheeler and Regional Administrator Walker, as well as all the other key players who worked diligently to make this happen. I have no doubt that we will see the benefits of this decision for years to come." "A considerable amount of effort has gone into Florida's assumption of the Clean Water Act 404 program,"said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler."Federal authorities don't delegate this type of permit often, but Florida has, beyond question one of the greatest environmental records of any state, and I couldn't be happier that Florida has shown it can meet the strict national standards EPA sets to protect human health and the environment." "After a rigorous review, analysis and coordination process, EPA is pleased that the state of Florida will assume responsibility of its Clean Water Act Section 404 program,"saidEPARegion 4 Administrator Mary S. Walker."This approval is truly a reflection of the high-level scientific and regulatory expertise of the environmental professionals at the state, federal and tribal levels who ensured a legally a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://stephaniemurphy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1551 | Murphy Announces 2020 Congressional App Challenge Winner | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | FL | Stephanie Murphy | M001202 | stephaniemurphy.house.gov | legacy | ORLANDOU.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy of Winter Park, Fla., announced the winner of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge for Florida's Seventh Congressional District. Dylan Harte, a senior at Lake Mary Preparatory School in Seminole County, created the winning app, Pre-Calculus Buddy, to help students study the various topics covered in their pre-calculus curriculum. The Congressional App Challenge is part of a national effort tosupport and encourage education in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math). Dylan's app uses formulas to help students calculate solutions or check answers on a given problem. Dylan will now have the opportunity to attend a virtual coding academy, referred to as #HouseofCode, this spring to connect with other app challenge winners and the broader tech community. I am so excited that I am able to blend my love of math and programming in the 2020 Congressional App Challenge with Pre-Calculus Buddy, Dylan said. My app brings innovation in the precalculus learning process that will help students learn from their errors and offer them a better overall learning experience. I am very proud of Dylan for creating an app that is focused on helping his peers. As Chair Emeritus of Future Forum, I'm excited to see young people utilizing their talents to improve the lives of others, said Murphy. I also want to thank all the parents, teachers, and mentors who encourage students like Dylan to use their skills to make a difference. I will continue to support STEAM development in our schools so that more students have the opportunity to contribute to their communities. Since it launched in 2015, nearly 9,000 high school students have participated in the Congressional App Challenge.Through this nationwide competition, the Internet Education Foundation seeks to foster a youth appreciation for computer science and STEAM-based education. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://steube.house.gov/media/press-releases/steube-celebrates-florida-clean-water-act-404-program-approval-epa | Steube Celebrates Florida Clean Water Act Section 404 Approval with EPA Administrator Wheeler | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Greg Steube | S001214 | steube.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today delivered remarks at the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) event celebrating the initiation of the Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 program in Florida. It was an honor to celebrate this tremendous victory for Florida's environment and infrastructure, Steube said. As the first state to receive approval to administer the CWA 404 program in over 25 years and only the third state in 43 years, this is a historic accomplishment. With this increased flexibility for permitting, Florida will now have new capabilities to build and maintain our infrastructure while protecting Florida's water quality and environmental interests. Currently, Section 404of the CWA requires a permit before dredged or fill material can be discharged into waters of the United States. However, this has been loosely defined and caused problems for decades which have not only affected Florida's water quality, but also progress on infrastructure projects. This rule change and program will allow projects of all sizes to be approved to begin faster without delays caused by the duplicative permitting processes from federal and state levels. This is a major accomplishment as 85% of review requests already overlap between state and federal requirements. Streamlined permitting processes will promote efficiency and benefit all sectors of Florida's vibrant economy, namely infrastructure and agriculture, all while protecting the state's environmental interests. Steube has taken many initiatives to protect Florida's environment in Congress. Recently, Steube's request formechanical harvesting languagewas included in this year's appropriations package. This includes the use of safe alternatives to spraying chemicals into Florida's lakes and waterways and will help Florida control invasive species without sacrificing the water quality of Lake Okeechobee and surrounding watersheds. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-celebrates-florida-clean-water-act-section-404-approval-with-epa-administrator-wheeler/ | Steube Celebrates Florida Clean Water Act Section 404 Approval with EPA Administrator Wheeler | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | W. Gregory Steube | S001214 | steube.house.gov | steube | https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/ | scraper | Steube Celebrates Florida Clean Water Act Section 404 Approval with EPA Administrator Wheeler WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today delivered remarks at the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) event celebrating the initiation of the Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 program in Florida. “It was an honor to celebrate this tremendous victory for Florida’s environment and infrastructure,” Steube said. “As the first state to receive approval to administer the CWA 404 program in over 25 years and only the third state in 43 years, this is a historic accomplishment. With this increased flexibility for permitting, Florida will now have new capabilities to build and maintain our infrastructure while protecting Florida’s water quality and environmental interests.” Currently, Section 404 of the CWA requires a permit before dredged or fill material can be discharged into waters of the United States. However, this has been loosely defined and caused problems for decades which have not only affected Florida’s water quality, but also progress on infrastructure projects. This rule change and program will allow projects of all sizes to be approved to begin faster without delays caused by the duplicative permitting processes from federal and state levels. This is a major accomplishment as 85% of review requests already overlap between state and federal requirements. Streamlined permitting processes will promote efficiency and benefit all sectors of Florida’s vibrant economy, namely infrastructure and agriculture, all while protecting the state’s environmental interests. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=C731EDC3-0EDB-4AC5-8587-9ADCABD0FA75 | Webster Applauds EPA Historic Approval of Florida’s Request to Administer the Clean Water Act Section 404 Program | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | FL | Daniel Webster | W000806 | webster.house.gov | webster | https://webster.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, joined U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler, U.S. Department of Interior Secretary David Bernhardt, Florida Congressional Colleagues, FL DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein and others as EPA announced that Florida would assume administration of the Clean Water Act 404 program. “Today is a great day for Florida and everyone who cares about protecting our wetlands and clean water and streamlining government regulations. The Sunshine State has a strong track record of protecting our unique environment and Floridians care deeply about their environment and natural resources. Everglades restoration, key infrastructure projects, sustaining protections on wetlands and endangered species, and taxpayer dollars – are all beneficiaries of today’s announcement. I thank Administrator Wheeler and look forward to continuing to work with him, Secretary Bernhardt and Secretary Valenstein to protect and support Florida’s water, Floridians and our economy,” said Congressman Dan Webster (FL-11). Last month, Rep. Webster led a Congressional letter in support of Florida’s request to administer the Clean Water Section 404 program. Approximately 85% of current state and federal review requirements are duplicative. These duplicative requirements will be removed under Florida’s administration of the 404 program. Additional quotes from state and federal leaders and stakeholders “A considerable amount of effort has gone into Florida’s assumption of the Clean Water Act 404 program,” said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “Federal authorities don’t delegate this type of permit often, but Florida has, beyond question one of the greatest environmental records of any state, and I couldn’t be happier that Florida has shown it can meet the strict national standards EPA sets to protect human health and the environment.” “After a rigorous review, analysis and coordination process, EPA is pleased that the state of Florida will assume responsibility of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| http://www.rubio.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8141B973-236F-46E1-BDE3-1B38C54F7D82 | Rubio and Markey Applaud Senate Passage of Bill Awarding Congressional Gold Medal To American Heroes Killed in 2012 Benghazi Consulate Attack | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | Senate | FL | Marco Rubio | R000595 | www.rubio.senate.gov | legacy | Bill honors selfless sacrifice of Ambassador Christopher Stevens, Glen A. Doherty, Tyrone Woods, and Sean Smith Washington, D.C. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA), along with Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), and Shelley Moore Capito (D-WV) applauded the Senate's passage of their bipartisan bill (S. 2054) to posthumously award the Congressional Gold Medal to J. Christopher Stevens, Glen A. Doherty, Tyrone Woods and Sean Smith in recognition of their service and defense of the United States of America. Stevens, Doherty, Woods, and Smith were killed in the attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya in September 2012. Ambassador Christopher Stevens, a member of the Career Foreign Service, was serving as U.S. Ambassador to Libya during the attack. Glen Doherty, a former combat-decorated Navy SEAL. Tyrone Woods, was also a former combat-decorated Navy SEAL. Sean Smith, a native of San Diego, had served in the Air Force where he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal. Honoring our fallen fellow Americans, who were murdered during a terrorist attack in our nation's consulate in Benghazi, commemorates not only their legacy but also their sacrifice, Rubio said. We owe Ambassador Stevens, Navy SEALS Doherty and Woods as well as Airman Smith a great debt of gratitude. I am proud to have joined Senator Markey in introducing this bipartisan bill and urge the members of the House to quickly pass it and send it to the President's desk for signature. The bravery of Glen Doherty, Tyrone Woods, Sean Smith and Ambassador Stevens' must be remembered and honored. Our diplomats, armed forces, and all who proudly serve our country overseas deserve our utmost respect, recognition, and gratitude. I am honored to have led the effort that will honor them as the American heroes we know them to be, Markey said. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor the legislative branch can bestow upon any individual, and I look … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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