url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403759,U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Announces Historic Federal Emergency Aid Delivered to Tampa Bay Families and Businesses in 2021,2021-12-29,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) announced today a breakdown of federal investments and assistance delivered to the Tampa Bay community: $2.9 billion in Covid19 grants to support small businesses and nonprofits, including $2.7 billion in Paycheck Protection small business loans, $74.6 million in Restaurant Revitalization Fund awards and $46.8 million in Shuttered Venue Operators Grant; A record $1.9 billion in federal grants secured for this Tampa/Hillsborough congressional district to create jobs, invest in education and infrastructure, and support the important work of local partners as Tampa Bay Builds Back Better; A record $3.4 million recovered for veterans, seniors, small businesses and families of this congressional district who were stuck in red tape before requesting assistance from U.S. Rep. Castor; Thanks to the American Rescue Plan and President Biden, Rep. Castor delivered ~$206M in tax cuts for most families with children (per the new expanded Child Tax Credit) which helped 86,000 Tampa area families at a time they needed it most with child care, groceries, diapers and school supplies. “I am enormously proud of my Tampa constituent services team led by Tery Sanchez, my aide since 2002 when we joined forces to serve our neighbors on the Hillsborough County Commission. Team Castor worked tirelessly to cut through red tape and bureaucracy on behalf of families, veterans and neighbors across the Tampa area at a record level in 2021. “The millions of dollars returned to our neighbors in our Tampa area District is a testament to the dedication and level of expertise with which Team Castor tackles complex cases on a daily basis to ensure that veterans receive the benefits they have earned and to guarantee that Social Security and Medicare are delivered on time to our older neighbors. Tampa families are facing unique and time-sensitive issues due to the coronavirus, and my team’s top priority remains serving our neighbors with respect and care.” In FY2021, Florida’s 14th Congressional district in Tampa and Hillsborough County saw 779 grant awards for a total of $1.9 billion. “The $1.9 billion in federal grants serve as a lifeline for our hospitals, small businesses, schools, renters and more as they work through ongoing challenges of the Covid19 pandemic. Through American Rescue Plan federal grants, we have kept children learning safely, met the urgent needs of our Tampa health heroes, allocated funds to connect Tampa and make our roadways safer, and much more. I will continue championing our local partners to ensure that I continue to work to secure federal grants that ensure the health, wellbeing and economic success of our neighbors and greater Tampa Bay community. “I am proud to continue delivering for our Tampa Bay community, especially as we build back from the pandemic era with President Biden signing the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act into law and House passage of the Build Back Better Act. Paired with the lifesaving American Rescue Plan, we are working to ensure a level playing field that provides opportunity for all of our neighbors.” Among the $1.9B in federal grants that U.S. Rep. Castor delivered for Tampa Bay are an $18 million Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability & Equity (RAISE) grant for Tampa Heights, $1.7 million American Rescue Plan Capital Improvements Award for Tampa Family Health Centers, and a $6.1 million Head Start Emergency Supplemental grant for Lutheran Services Florida. Thanks to federal Covid19 aid, Florida’s 14th Congressional District received over $2.9B in grants for local businesses, including $2.7 billion in Paycheck Protection Program loans, $74.6 million in Restaurant Revitalization Fund Awards and $46.8 million in Shuttered Venue Operators Grants. “These federal dollars have done exactly what we intended when crafting these aid packages in the Congress – they have helped our local businesses, the heart of our community, keep the lights on and employees paid over the past two years and will continue to aid them in bouncing back in the days ahead. “I am also incredibly heartened to know that over $200 million in Child Tax Credit boosted the bank accounts of 86,000 Tampa area families thanks to the American Rescue Plan. These payments have been lifelines for families across our community, providing food, diapers, clothes and other essentials when they needed it most. In 2022, I will continue to work with our incredible local and federal partners to ensure that all of our neighbors have the tools they need to succeed.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-gets-another-win,Buchanan Gets Another Win!,2021-12-27,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Vern Buchanan today announced that his proposal to implement a series of sweeping new military training reforms has been signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This marks Buchanan’s 24th legislative initiative to be signed into law since he first came to Congress in 2007. Buchanan has been a leading advocate in Congress for reforming our current training procedures and improving emergency response capabilities after the tragic death of Army Specialist Nicholas Panipinto of Bradenton. Panipinto died in a vehicle training accident in South Korea in 2019. “The death of Specialist Panipinto is a tragedy that never should have happened,” said Buchanan. “That’s why I’m committed to doing everything I can to make sure that no other family has to endure similar heartache. The greatest tribute we can pay to Nick is to ensure that future and entirely preventable military training accidents never happen again.” Specifically, the legislation requires the Pentagon to: Implement more realistic training practices Develop stricter enforcement standards And ensure better oversight to prevent future military training accidents and deaths. Buchanan introduced the legislation as a standalone bill (H.R. 5268) and as an amendment to the NDAA following a report from the government’s top watchdog office that found a lack of driver training and failures to properly oversee and implement key safety procedures were largely to blame for several fatal training accidents. Buchanan’s proposal closely mirrors a provision included in the final version of the NDAA, which President Biden signed into law on Monday. The NDAA overwhelmingly passed the U.S. House and Senate by votes of 363-70 and 88-11, respectively. According to Panipinto’s mother, Kimberly Weaver, Panipinto did not have a license, the required amount of driver training or any classroom instruction before beginning his road-test. “The devastating loss of Nicholas was compounded by the fact that it was totally preventable,"" said Weaver. ""I am hopeful that when implemented these reforms will help prevent another tragic loss. In the meantime, I am forever grateful to Congressman Buchanan for continuing to push for necessary military training reforms to protect service members.” This is the second Buchanan measure related to military training accidents that Buchanan has had signed into law. Last year, Buchanan successfully offered another amendment to the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act that required the Department of Defense to examine emergency response capabilities and services currently available at U.S. bases around the world, and to report to Congress on the potential benefits and feasibility of requiring bases to have properly functioning MedEvac helicopters and fully stocked military ambulances. Last Congress Buchanan had six of his legislative initiatives enacted into law, bringing the total number of legislative initiatives he has passed since taking office in 2007 to 24. Buchanan has also authored three amendments that successfully passed the U.S. House earlier this year that he will continue to push to be enacted into law. The three amendments would curb veteran suicides, examine surging manatee deaths and combat drug overdoses.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-lauds-air-force-decision-designate-macdill-main-operation-base-kc-46,Bilirakis Lauds Air Force Decision to Designate MacDill as Main Operation Base for KC-46 Pegasus,2021-12-23,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Palm Harbor: U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis applauds the United States Air Force's recent decision to select MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa as its home base for 24 new KC-46 Pegasus tankers. MacDill Air Force Base is already home to 28 associate units from all branches of the military, including: U.S. Central Command, U.S. Special Operations Command and the 927th Air Refueling Wing. The diverse human and technological resources needed to support these vital operations uniquely benefits the Tampa Bay area, and the community recognizes the significance contributions the base makes to the region. According to the Air Force, the decision to place the Pegasus program at MacDill was made after conducting site surveys that evaluated a variety of factors associated with each potential base, including: mission, infrastructure capacity, community support, cost and environment considerations. ""There is no where in the country that supports its military community more than Tampa Bay,"" said local Congressman Gus Bilirakis. ""We recognize MacDill as a key community asset and support the men and women stationed there who bravely serve our nation. This new program will serve as an important catalyst for continued economic development and we welcome it to our area.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403755,Rep. Castor Statement on MacDill AFB Being Chosen as Preferred Location to Host KC-46 Tanker Aircraft,2021-12-22,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released a statement following a press conference announcing that the Department of the Air Force selected Tampa’s MacDill Air Force Base as the preferred location to host 24 KC-46As, which will replace the base’s 24 KC-135s. The decision was made after conducting site surveys that assessed locations based on factors related to mission, infrastructure capacity, community support, environmental considerations and cost. “I am thrilled that MacDill was chosen to be the new main operating base for 24 KC-46s Pegasus aircraft. The patriotic Tampa Bay community embraces the mission and the outstanding men and women who serve here. Tampa is “tanker town,” and we are thrilled to upgrade our tankers and cement the air mobility mission at MacDill for decades to come,” said Rep. Castor. “MacDill Air Force Base is proud to be chosen to become the next preferred location to host the KC-46 Pegasus. The selection ensures that the 6th Air Refueling Wing will provide next generation aerial refueling support and AirPower for our nation’s defense for decades to come,” said Colonel Benjamin R. Jonsson, Commander, 6th Air Refueling Wing, MacDill Air Force Base. “On behalf of the MacDill Means Mobility Task Force, we are thrilled that the Air Force has chosen MacDill Air Force Base to host the KC-46. Tampa Bay and Florida's unrivalled support for military servicemembers, their families, and our veteran community makes MacDill the perfect home for this new squadron. With a premier location for global power projection and global reach, MacDill is ready for the KC-46,” said Kelly Flannery, President & CEO, South Tampa Chamber of Commerce. The announcement follows years of advocacy from Rep. Castor and local leaders on the placement of these next generation tanker aircraft. In 2012, when MacDill was considered by the Air Force for KC-46 tankers, Rep. Castor led a “MacDill Means Mobility” campaign with local and state leaders to highlight the strengths of the base to national policymakers. Castor convened community and business leaders for a meeting at the Pentagon to highlight MacDill’s strength and reputation as a “tanker town.” The next step is an environmental impact assessment, expected to be completed by fall 2023, then the Air Force will confirm the decision for its sixth and newest KC-46 Main Operating Base.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-meijer-bipartisan-members-congress-write-letter-urging-us-department-state,"Soto, Meijer, Bipartisan Members of Congress Write Letter Urging US Department of State to Restore Visa Processing Operations",2021-12-22,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Darren Soto,S001200,soto.house.gov,soto,https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"""Limited visa processing capacity and extended wait-times are a legacy of measures taken in the early days of the pandemic that are no longer appropriate or necessary as testing and vaccines become more widely available,"" wrote the Members. ""Furthermore, they disrupt the reopening of American businesses. According to the U.S. Travel Association, international visitor spending in the U.S. dropped by 76% in 2020, leading to the loss of $141 billion and 1.1 million American jobs. As international and domestic travel begin to recover, many travel businesses rely on H-2B and J1 visas to meet short-term and seasonal workforce demands that cannot otherwise be filled. With such a significant portion of U.S. visa processing sites fully or partially closed, travel businesses will not have the international visitors or the temporary workers they need to generate a speedy and robust recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic."" ""My constituents in Florida's Ninth Congressional District are feeling the negative effects of lowered visa processing operations more than ever,"" said Congressman Soto. ""Whether they're families waiting to reunite with loved ones or small business owners missing employees and customers, this issue is affecting our community greatly and needs to be addressed quickly. I hope the Department of State will consider our proposals, take the necessary steps to shorten wait times, and ease the tension felt by so many people in Central Florida and across the country."" ""Swift and efficient visa processing is critical to restoring the United States as a top destination for global travelers,"" said U.S. Travel Association Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy Tori Barnes. ""With 60% of U.S. embassies and consulates partially or completely closed for visa processing—and average appointment wait times climbing to more than a year in some locations—a commitment to restoring visa operations and reducing the appointment backlog is necessary to ensure the U.S. inbound travel market will recover more quickly to pre-pandemic levels. We applaud the letters' co-signers for their leadership on this issue and respectfully urge the State Department to fully resume visa processing operations worldwide, which will help sustain an even recovery across all sectors of travel.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-joins-wwii-veteran-constituent-in-celebration-of-100th-birthday/,Rep. Steube Joins WWII Veteran Constituent In Celebration of 100th Birthday,2021-12-22,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Steube Joins WWII Veteran Constituent In Celebration of 100th Birthday PUNTA GORDA, FLA.— Yesterday, U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) recognized WWII veteran constituent, Walter Neef, in celebration of his 100th birthday. “Walter is a proud patriotic American of the Greatest Generation who I am honored to represent in Congress,” said Congressman Steube. “This district is blessed to have incredible veterans like Walter who have dedicated so much to this country. As we celebrate his 100th birthday, let us always remember the sacrifices Walter and his generation made to preserve the freedoms we enjoy today.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=283,Franklin Congratulates MacDill Air Force Base on Being Selected to Base KC-46 Tanker Aircraft,2021-12-21,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, congratulated MacDill Air Force Base on being selected by the Secretary of the Air Force as the next Main Operating Base (MOB) for 24 new KC-46 Pegasus tankers. The U.S Air Force previously identified MacDill and Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington state as the top two candidates for the new KC-46s. Rep. Franklin helped lead a letter in June with the entire bipartisan Florida Congressional Delegation urging Air Force Secretary John P. Roth to select MacDill as the next MOB for the tankers. “MacDill is the right choice for the KC-46’s new operating base,” said Rep. Franklin. “It is home to 33 mission partner units from all branches of service, including U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command, making it an ideal setting for these aircraft. The KC-135 Stratotanker has been a work horse in support of military aviation since the mid-1950’s, but its time had passed. When I was a young Naval Aviator over 30 years ago, we were already looking eagerly to its replacement. That time has finally arrived, and I’m proud to know that MacDill will be the new home for the KC-46. The Tampa Bay area is highly respected for its support of our servicemembers and their families. I look forward to welcoming more of them to our community with the selection.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-menendez-introduce-bicameral-resolution-recognize-historical-significance,"Soto, Menendez Introduce Bicameral Resolution to Recognize the Historical Significance of Roberto Clemente’s Place of Death",2021-12-21,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Darren Soto,S001200,soto.house.gov,soto,https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) and U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) introduced a bicameral resolution which urges the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to recognize the historical significance of Roberto Clemente's place of death near Piñones in Loíza, Puerto Rico, by adding it to the National Register of Historic Places. ""In Central Florida, Roberto Clemente's legacy lives on in our renamed streets and schools, in little league field murals, as well as in the morals we teach our children to follow,"" said Congressman Soto. ""Clemente once said, 'Anytime you have an opportunity to make a difference in this world and you don't, then you are wasting your time on Earth.' From his efforts to reform American baseball to his humanitarian work, he demonstrated that he practiced what he preached and dedicated his life to helping others overcome adversity. Though his life was tragically cut short, we will keep fighting to keep his spirit alive."" ""Roberto Clemente not only made his mark on the game of baseball as a Puerto Rican professional baseball right fielder, but he also left behind a legacy for his advocacy and commitment to the equitable treatment of Latino and Black baseball players,"" said Senator Menendez. ""Clemente's story is a true American story, and that's why I am proud to be leading this resolution in the Senate. It is long overdue for the Interior Department to recognize the historical significance of his humanitarian efforts in his place of death near Piñones in Loíza, Puerto Rico, by adding it to the National Register of Historic Places."" Roberto Clemente began playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates of the National League in Major League Baseball in 1955 and went on to play for them for 18 seasons, becoming a baseball legend. Throughout his distinguished career, he won two Major League Baseball World Series Championships in 1960 and 1971, was named World Series Most Valuable Player in 1971, and was an All-Star for 15 seasons from 1960-1967 and from 1969-1972. Clemente also hit the only walk-off, inside-the-park grand slam home run in professional baseball history on July 25, 1956. Clemente enlisted into the United States Marine Corps in 1958 and served as an infantryman for six years until 1964 when he was honorably discharged. He embodied the values of a model citizen through his acts of service and humanitarian efforts toward those in need, regardless of their location. On December 31, 1972, he was on his way to provide humanitarian aid in Nicaragua after it was hit by a massive earthquake when the airplane he was on crashed into the ocean, leading to his tragic death. This resolution would honor one of baseball's greatest players and his legacy. In the House of Representatives, in addition to Rep. Soto, the resolution is co-sponsored by Reps. Jenniffer González-Colón (PR-At Large), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07). In the Senate, in addition to Sen. Menendez, it is co-sponsored by Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.). Click here for the full text of the resolution. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammack-names-man-steel-duane-dewey-fl-03-2021-veteran-year,Congresswoman Kat Cammack Names 'Man Of Steel' Duane Dewey FL-03 2021 Veteran Of The Year,2021-12-20,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GAINESVILLE, FL – Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack announced this year's Veteran of the Year as Mr. Duane Dewey, a Medal of Honor recipient, for his courageous actions during the Korean War in 1952. Known as the ""Man of Steel"" in Florida's Third Congressional District, Corporal Duane Edgar Dewey received the Medal of Honor in March 1953 from President Dwight D. Eisenhower following his heroic actions near Panmunjom, Korea with the machine gun platoon of Company E of the United States Marine Corps. When an enemy grenade landed close to his position while he and his assistant gunner received medical attention for their wounds during a night attack, Corporal Dewey pulled his fellow corpsman to the ground, shouted a warning to the other Marines around him, and bravely smothered the deadly missile with his body, personally absorbing the full force of the explosion to save the lives of those around him. When accepting the Medal of Honor from President Eisenhower after significant months of recuperation, the president joked, ""you must be made of steel,"" and the nickname stuck. Corporal Dewey was a fixture in the North Central Florida community, where he spent several months out of the year when not in his home state of Michigan. He was a member of the Korean War Veterans Association in Gainesville and known for his friendship, bravery, and support of his fellow veterans, often bashful about his service record to the point that few even knew they were in the presence of a recognized hero. ""It is only fitting that the inaugural Veteran of the Year is one of the bravest men to have served our country,"" said Rep. Cammack. ""During an incredibly harrowing time, Cpl. Dewey willingly sacrificed himself to save the lives of the men around him, setting a tremendous example for service and bravery. We were so lucky to have him in our part of Florida for many years, and I know we will continue to miss him dearly. Thank you, sir."" Corporal Dewey passed away earlier this year in St. Augustine, Florida on October 11. He is survived by two children, two grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and dozens of family members and friends. Congresswoman Cammack has flown a flag over the U.S. Capitol in Corporal Dewey's memory, entered his courageous story into the Congressional Record, and will honor him in a speech on the House Floor in January. Congresswoman Cammack thanks the community for submitting their entries for this year's Veteran of the Year award and looks forward to continuing this tradition for years to come. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FC3EAB99-E882-42BE-A3C2-DC6DF6F3ABA1,Webster & Signs Amicus Brief in Support of Navy Service Members Seeking Religious Accommodations for the Department of Defense’s COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate,2021-12-20,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont joined Constitutional law litigator Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04) and 37 House Republicans today in filing an Amicus Brief before the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas in support of 35 Navy service members seeking religious accommodations for the Department of Defense’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. The brief states: “The very first clause of the very First Amendment explicitly states that ‘Congress shall make no law… prohibiting the free exercise’ of religion. This amendment, case law, and Congress’s decision to pass the Religious Freedom Restoration Act all testify to the fact that, without entrenched, generally applicable, and judicially enforceable protections for religious liberty, lawmakers and government bureaucrats are susceptible to override sincere religious beliefs in favor of what they mistakenly see as the greater good. That is what is happening with Defendants’ vaccine mandate.” The brief continues: “Plaintiffs’ religious liberty and the government’s asserted interest in protecting our service members from COVID-19 need not be in conflict, especially where, as here, the individuals seeking an exemption are willing to adopt non-vaccination measures to protect themselves and others from the spread of COVID-19.” The brief concludes: “Indeed, the impact on the military and our national security strongly counsels in favor of granting a preliminary injunction. The mandate is sidelining the deployment of soldiers on whose service our country relies. If this mandate (as currently being applied or threatened) is not enjoined, these Plaintiffs cannot fulfill their pledge to serve and defend our country, even though, based upon their training and experience, these Plaintiffs, as well as others similarly situated, are some of our most qualified, equipped, and fearless soldiers… Now they ask this Court to protect their religious freedom from encroachment by the very government they have sworn to protect with their lives. “If the mandate stands, it is likely, then, that it will be more difficult for our military to recruit highly qualified individuals of faith to serve our country—a consequence that is wholly unnecessary, damaging to our military’s morale, and damaging to our national security.” The plaintiffs have sued the Department of Defense over the department’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate in a Texas federal court claiming that the mandate infringes upon their religious freedom rights. Click here to read the brief. Representative Mike Johnson (LA) led the brief and Representatives Rick Allen (GA), Brian Babin (TX), Jack Bergman (MI), Andy Biggs (AZ), Dan Bishop (NC), Mo Brooks (AL), Lauren Boebert (CO), Kat Cammack (FL), Andrew Clyde (GA), Warren Davidson (OH), Rodney Davis (IL), Jeff Duncan (SC), Bob Gibbs (OH), Louie Gohmert (TX), Bob Good (VA), Paul Gosar (AZ), Michael Guest (MS), Andy Harris (MD), Vicky Hartzler (MO), Jody Hice (GA), Clay Higgins (LA), Darrell Issa (CA), Ronny Jackson (TX), Doug LaMalfa (CA), Doug Lamborn (CO), Billy Long (MO), Thomas Massie (KY), Brian Mast (FL), Mary Miller (IL), Greg Murphy (NC), Ralph Norman (SC), Scott Perry (PA), Matt Rosendale (MT), Chip Roy (TX), Greg Steube (FL), and Randy Weber (TX) also signed. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-applauds-105-million-loan-sarasota-county-water-treatment,Buchanan Applauds $105 Million Loan for Sarasota County Water Treatment Facility,2021-12-19,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"SARASOTA, Fla. – Congressman Vern Buchanan today applauded the approval of a $105 million low interest rate loan to the Bee Ridge Water Reclamation Facility (BRWRF) Expansion and Wastewater Treatment Conversion Project from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This loan will be used to upgrade existing infrastructure to state-of-the-art water treatment technology. “Clean water is critical to our economy and quality of life here on the Suncoast,” said Buchanan “These innovative upgrades to the BRWRF will be a significant improvement to our local water infrastructure and serve my constituents in the area with more sustainable, cleaner water.” Financing for the expansion and conversion project was provided by the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program. Funds will be used to construct new facilities, utilities and on-site infrastructure and to demolish existing facilities, including secondary clarifiers and deep bed filters. Upgrades of this caliber have not previously been developed in Florida. In December 2020, Buchanan sent a letter to EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler urging the EPA consider Sarasota County’s request for WIFIA financing to improve water quality at BRWRF. BRWRF is a 143-acre facility located solely in Florida’s 16th congressional district. Upgrades to the BRWRF will benefit 90,980 Sarasota County residents in Buchanan’s district. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-addresses-manasota-key-erosion-in-meeting-with-army-corps-of-engineers/,Rep. Steube Addresses Manasota Key Erosion in Meeting with Army Corps of Engineers,2021-12-19,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Steube Addresses Manasota Key Erosion in Meeting with Army Corps of Engineers Charlotte County, FL – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-FL) yesterday joined Charlotte County leaders in a meeting and site visit with the Army Corps of Engineers and Colonel James L. Booth to discuss rehabilitation solutions for Manasota Key’s deteriorating shoreline. “In recent years, Charlotte County has sustained significant shoreline erosion and other damage from various weather events,” Steube said.”On Dec 1, 2021, I sent a letter to the Corps expressing my concern for these worsening conditions and have requested the inclusion of the study and construction of a shoreline rehabilitation project currently being considered by the Army Corps.” The federal project will help protect critical infrastructure, including homes, condos, and hurricane evacuation routes. Charlotte County has declared several emergencies since 2014 due to the impact of the erosion on homes and infrastructure. The erosion, in some cases, has destabilized homes and condominium buildings to the point where they are no longer safe to enter. The beaches within the project area begin in Sarasota County, and the project extends for over 4.4 miles across the Sarasota County/Charlotte County line south to Stump Pass Beach State Park. Florida’s 17th Congressional District’s land area is over 6,300 square miles and is home to portions of Florida’s Gulf Coast, including shoreline in Sarasota and Charlotte County. To view Congressman Steube’s December 1 letter to the Army Corps, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-sits-down-community-leaders-identifies-next-steps-tackling-fentanyl,"Bilirakis Sits Down with Community Leaders, Identifies Next Steps in Tackling Fentanyl Crisis",2021-12-17,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"December 17, 2021 Congressman Gus Bilirakis held a roundtable discussion this week with local emergency room physicians, behavioral health clinicians, health department officials, law enforcement and other community leaders to learn more about how fentanyl is impacting the Tampa Bay area and identify ways Congress can provide more effective assistance. According to the CDC, 100,000 Americans have died from fentanyl-related overdoses in the past year. Pasco and Pinellas counties report approximately 800 fentanyl deaths in 2021 alone. The goal of the meeting was to identify specific policy recommendations that would assist local stakeholders who are on the front lines of this struggle. ""This is a public health crisis. While law enforcement plays a key role in addressing these problems, as long as there is demand criminal elements will always find a way to create supply. Since we cannot arrest our way out of this situation, we must find ways to better treat addiction. These are our neighbors who are dying, often accidentally because the substances they are taking are laced with deadly fentanyl,"" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. ""The time to act is now. We must expand access to treatment, enhance prevention strategies, remove barriers that keep providers from being able to implement best practices, crack down on China for supplying deadly drugs, secure our southern border, and give law enforcement the tools it needs to go after the suppliers who are profiting off those who are struggling with addiction."" The following actions were suggested by the group of local experts, some of which have already been acted upon by Congressman Bilirakis: Increase enforcement for existing behavioral health parity laws because it is a serious barrier to getting people the help they need. Congressman Bilirakis has sponsored the Mental Health Parity Enforcement Act to address this issue. The Tampa Bay region has received significant federal funding in recent years however much of it can't be spent within the timeframes established by federal agencies. Another issue is that many providers do not have the staffing needed to address the demand for services. Providers need more flexibility with the federal funds and a longer period to spend the funding. Also, the funds need to be reoccurring to prevent a fiscal cliff that negatively impacts patients being served. To address staffing issues, there is a bill that would allow other trained mental health counselors to treat substance abuse patients and be reimbursed through Medicare. This would expand access to treatment. All other payers allow this expanded scope of practice due to the urgent need. The Congressman will review this legislation and discuss these funding issues with his colleagues. The co-responding model Pasco County is using with Baycare has been very effective. The agencies need more funding to expand and replicate this successful model. In this model, law enforcement calls related to overdoses or drug abuse are flagged. A Baycare clinician responds to the call with law enforcement and instead of incarceration, the patient is offered treatment options. There is a great deal of prevention happening in schools (as early as elementary levels) but it isn't sufficient. With so many pills being laced with fentanyl and even vaping pens being tainted with fentanyl, there are many accidental overdoses. There needs to be more education about these dangers. AdventHealth has engaged in putting research into practice regarding opioid-free surgeries. This work needs to be expanded. Congressman Bilirakis has cosponsored HR 3259 that would address a key aspect to this problem. ER doctors want to be able to write prescriptions for the first dose of Medical Assisted Treatment but are prevented due to the X-waiver (buprenorphine). This limitation should be removed. There is an education component that will be needed for some doctors to feel comfortable prescribing new drugs in an area they are less familiar with, but the professional organizations can help. And it will save lives. Congressman Bilirakis has cosponsored HR 1374 to achieve this goal. Lack of affordable housing is a significant problem. If people return to the same environment, successful recovery is virtually impossible. More focus on the social determinants of health will help. Congressman Bilirakis has authored HR 3894 and 4074 to address social determinants of health issues. Issues:Health Care",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403754,"Rep. Castor Touts Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Announces $2.5B in New Funding for Roads and Bridges Headed to Florida, First Round of Highway Funding Under Bipartisan Infrastructure Law",2021-12-17,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"On Wednesday, Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) updated Tampa Bay area residents on the details of projects and resources made available through the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act during an infrastructure telephone town hall. She also listened to constituent priorities and hosted experts to answer questions on the law. Castor was joined by Emily Feenstra, Managing Director of Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives for the American Society of Civil Engineers and Beth Alden, Executive Director of the Hillsborough Transportation Planning Organization. The telephone town hall can be found here. On Thursday, Rep. Castor and Port Tampa Bay president and CEO Paul Anderson underscored the significance of this investment for Port Tampa Bay – an economic engine that supports over 85,000 jobs annually and has an economic impact of $17.2 billion – and businesses that rely on this important economic engine. The law will help modernize the port, alleviating supply chain bottlenecks, lower costs for families and increase the flow of goods through Tampa Bay. More than many other ports, Port Tampa Bay will provide the bulk construction materials for infrastructure projects across Florida. A video of this event can be found here. Following this event, Rep. Castor announced that the State of Florida will receive $2,510,041,078 in new federal funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to create good-paying jobs for Floridians improving roads and bridges across the state. This is the first round of funding under the five years of federal investment in Florida highways authorized by this new law. “With this new infusion of funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we’re putting Floridians to work rebuilding roads and bridges in Tampa Bay communities,” said Rep. Castor. “These federal dollars are a strong first step toward strengthening our state’s essential infrastructure – and with them, we’ll cut down commute times, help small businesses get goods to market and keep travelers safe on our roads. This is how we Build Back Better for our community and future generations.” The historic and bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, signed into law by President Biden on November 15th, secured new federal funding for highway and bridge repair for communities across the nation. The funds, administered by the Federal-aid Highway Program, can be used for the construction, reconstruction or improvement.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-bilirakis-frankel-dingell-introduce-bill-improve-public-health-programs,"Reps. Bilirakis, Frankel, Dingell Introduce Bill to Improve Public Health Programs for Older Adults",2021-12-16,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), Lois Frankel (D-FL-21), and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-12) introduced the Protecting the Health of America's Older Adults Act. This bipartisan legislation would create a program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to improve the health and well-being of older adults and provide grants to state and local health departments to implement age-friendly public health programs. ""We owe it to our seniors to ensure they have access to the best possible health care,"" said Rep. Bilirakis. ""As the population continues to age, it only makes sense that public health officials are working closely with senior advocacy organizations to identify and address unmet needs."" ""As people age, they face unique health challenges including dementia, food insecurity, balance, and isolation,"" said Rep. Frankel. ""This bipartisan legislation will provide the CDC and state and local health departments with resources to address these, and other critical health issues older Americans confront every day."" ""The number of Americans ages 65 and older will more than double over the next 40 years. We have the power to prepare for this through strategic legislation that supports critical resources for older Americans,"" said Rep. Dingell. ""I'm proud to work with my colleague Rep. Lois Frankel to introduce the Protecting the Health of America's Older Adults Act to create a Healthy Aging program at the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention. From lowering health care costs to improving health equity, this program will be a lifeline to the American people as they age."" There are many issues faced by seniors across the public health spectrum, including: transportation and housing access, chronic disease, and mental health. Improving coordination of services for seniors will benefit our entire society. The CDC program created by this legislation will provide grants and technical assistance to state, local, territorial, and tribal health departments for: Improving the coordination of public health interventions that improve the health and well-being of older adults; Disseminating and implementing evidence-based best practices and programs with respect to promoting the health and well-being of older adults; Coordinating multisectoral efforts to improve the health and well-being of older adults across governmental and nongovernmental health agencies; Improving coordination of interventions to identify gaps and reduce duplication of efforts at federal, local, and state agencies and with other aging services organizations.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403753,Tampa International Airport to receive $21M early dollars under Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,2021-12-16,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released the following statement today following the announcement that $21,711,252 in new federal funds under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is headed to Tampa International Airport: “The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will help ensure that Tampa International Airport remains one of the one best airports in the world. Tampa Airport is one of our most important economic engines and the gateway to the dynamic Tampa Bay region. These investments will help build a safer and more sustainable airport while creating jobs and connecting Tampa Bay to the world. “I am thrilled to deliver for our neighbors and businesses and I am more determined than ever to replace the outdated FAA air traffic control tower. Thanks to President Biden, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the FAA for announcing the good news today - a holiday gift for travelers and workers alike.” Tampa International Airport will receive a similar tranche of funding from the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law each year for the next five years, as part of a program for airport development. In addition to these guaranteed funds, Tampa Airport can compete with other airports across the country for grants from an additional $5 billion nationally for terminal and landside improvements. On Nov. 15, President Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which included $15 billion in formula funding to help redevelop airports across the country. Projects that qualify for funding include: improvements to runways and taxiways, terminal development and noise prevention. The law also includes an additional $5 billion nationally for FAA towers and facilities funding, which the FAA will distribute among airports in need. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3379,"Reps. Frankel, Bilirakis, Dingell Introduce Bill to Improve Public Health Programs for Older Adults",2021-12-16,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL-21), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-12) introduced the Protecting the Health of America’s Older Adults Act. This bipartisan legislation would create a program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to improve the health and well-being of older adults and provide grants to state and local health departments to implement age-friendly public health programs. “As people age, they face unique health challenges including dementia, food insecurity, balance, and isolation,” said Rep. Frankel. “This bipartisan legislation will provide the CDC and state and local health departments with resources to address these, and other critical health issues older Americans confront every day.” “We owe it to our seniors to ensure they have access to the best possible health care,” said Rep. Bilirakis. “As the population continues to age, it only makes sense that public health officials are working closely with senior advocacy organizations to identify and address unmet needs.” “The number of Americans ages 65 and older will more than double over the next 40 years. We have the power to prepare for this through strategic legislation that supports critical resources for older Americans,” said Rep Dingell. “I’m proud to work with my colleague Rep. Lois Frankel to introduce the Protecting the Health of America’s Older Adults Act to create a Healthy Aging program at the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention. From lowering health care costs to improving health equity, this program will be a lifeline to the American people as they age.” “The last year underscored how important it is for public health agencies to be at the table when it comes to promoting the health of older adults,” said Dr. J. Nadine Gracia, President and CEO of Trust for America’s Health. “While health departments have been critical to the COVID-19 pandemic response when it comes to older adults, their active engagement in addressing many other issues faced by the aging population across the public health spectrum, including transportation and housing access, chronic disease, and mental health will promote better aging outcomes and benefit our entire society. This new grant program would be a step in the right direction to ensure that state and local health departments have the resources to do exactly that.” This CDC program would provide grants and technical assistance to state, local, territorial, and tribal health departments for: Improving the coordination of public health interventions that improve the health and well-being of older adults; Disseminating and implementing evidence-based best practices and programs with respect to promoting the health and well-being of older adults; Coordinating multisectoral efforts to improve the health and well-being of older adults across governmental and nongovernmental health agencies; Improving coordination of interventions to identify gaps and reduce duplication of efforts at federal, local, and state agencies and with other aging services organizations. The Protecting the Health of America’s Older Adults Act has been endorsed by The Florida Public Health Association, Trust for America’s Health, Alliance for Aging Research, Society for Women’s Health Research, American Association on Health and Disability, American Public Health Association, Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health, Society for Public Health Education, Coalition of National Health Education Organizations, Association of State Public Health Nutritionists, Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, Center for Advocacy for the Rights and Interests of the Elderly (CARIE), National Network of Public Health Institutes, Society for Public Health Education, Florida Introduces Physical Activity and Nutrition to the Youth, National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs, Gerontological Partnership of America, Common Threads, Urban Health Partnerships, We All Rise, and more. Full text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-recognizes-alex-meyer-as-december-fl-17-mvp/,Steube Recognizes Alex Meyer as December FL-17 MVP,2021-12-16,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Steube Recognizes Alex Meyer as December FL-17 MVP FORT MYERS, FLA.— Today, U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) recognized Punta Gorda Local Alex Meyer as December‘s FL-17 MVP. “Alex Meyer embodies the qualities that make our community great. Alex is compassionate, generous, outgoing, dedicated, and he’s a fighter.” Steube said. “Despite battling his numerous medical obstacles, Alex persevered and continuously gave back to our community, and communities across the country, helping other children in need.” Alex undergoes chemotherapy and is currently a patient at John Hopkins All Children’s in St. Petersburg. He has received over 60 chemo infusions since his diagnosis and has since started oral chemo twice daily for four months. Throughout his treatment, Alex has lost over 75% of his vision, his sense of smell, the majority of his sense of taste, and has short-term memory loss. During a chemo appointment last year, here at Golisano, Alex asked his parents if they could do a family toy drive. They started going shopping every Sunday after church and ended up purchasing almost 600 toys from stores all over town. The Meyers Family then started the Ironman Alex’s Toy Drive. Alex’s goal was to collect a thousand toys. Through social media, local press, and community outreach, he started receiving packages from all over the world. Alex has collected and donated thousands of toys and continues his incredible charitable work. Rep. Steube presented Alex Meyer with a certificate and flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in his honor. Each month, Rep. Steube and his team recognize an MVP from the 17th Congressional District who has made outstanding and unique contributions to the community. The purpose of this award is to recognize the unsung heroes across the District as they display extraordinary dedication to making a difference. MVPs are presented with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to thank them for their work and are publicly recognized in Rep. Steube’s weekly newsletter. To submit deserving nominees, constituents are encouraged to visit Steube.House.Gov/FL17MVP. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3377,Rep. Frankel Statement on the Last Round of Monthly Child Tax Credit Payments Hitting Bank Accounts,2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"West Palm Beach, FL – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement as the last disbursement of 2021 Child Tax Credit (CTC) payments hit bank accounts. “I’ve heard from families all across Palm Beach County who tell me how these Child Tax Credit payments allowed them to put food on the table for their children,” said Rep. Frankel. “No parent should be working two jobs and still struggling to keep a roof over their family’s heads. That’s why the expanded Child Tax Credit—which has lifted more than 5 million children out of poverty and delivered over $188 million in assistance to more than 80,000 families in our community—is so critical. It’s time for the Senate to pass the Build Back Better Act so we can continue providing these monthly tax credits and give families the help they need in the new year.” Under President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, Congress increased Child Tax Credit payments up to $3,600 per year per child under 6, and $3,000 per year per child ages 6-17 and provided monthly installments. The Build Back Better Act would extend this increase and the monthly payments through the end of 2022. The bill is currently awaiting action in the Senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=271,Franklin Applauds House Passage of Annual Defense Bill,2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, today acted in support of our nation’s military service members by voting for passage of S. 1605, the National Defense Authorization Act of 2022, on Tuesday evening. “Our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Guardians, and Marines face ongoing global threats in defense of our nation,” said Rep. Franklin. “Passing this bill is a critical step to providing them with needed support and resources to continue their remarkable legacy of defending America. Tonight’s action continues a 61-year-long tradition of bipartisan action to strengthen our national security. I believe in peace through strength, and the provisions and funding in this bill will provide just that, especially as we continue to counter adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran. I look forward to quick Senate passage so President Biden can sign it into law.” “Rep. Franklin has been a leader on the House Armed Services Committee and has worked tirelessly to support our troops,” said Rep. Mike Rogers, Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee. “He has also been vital in the effort to hold the Biden administration accountable for the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. The NDAA is critical for strengthening our national security and giving our troops the funding and tools they need. I thank Rep. Franklin for his work on this important legislation.” The 2022 NDAA provides a total of $768 billion in funding for the U.S. Armed Forces. Included in the legislation is a 2.7 percent pay raise for service members, several provisions to counter the threat posed by China, funding to put the country back on track toward building a 355 ship Navy, provisions to increase readiness, unprecedented levels of funding in emerging technologies, modernization of the U.S. nuclear arsenal, and an end to investment in outdated weapons systems and programs. Additionally, Republican leadership successfully removed the troubling “Red Flag” provision that would infringe on the Second Amendment rights of our armed forces, and a requirement for women to register for the draft. Multiple other Democrat partisan provisions that distracted from national security readiness were removed prior to passage. The 2022 NDAA includes several provisions and amendments secured by Rep. Franklin, including:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=319,"Franklin Opposes Partisan, Political Attacks Disguised as Combating Bigotry",2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Franklin today voted against a partisan bill brought forth by the House majority to attack political opponents under the guise of combating Islamophobia. The bill H.R. 5665, would among other things, establish a Special Envoy to Counter Islamophobia at the Department of State and singles out a former president for his actions to ensure the safety and security of the United States. Many may not be aware that the State Department already has at least three officers specifically tasked with combating Islamophobia. They include the Special Representative for Muslim Communities, Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, and the Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Rights, and Labor. Furthermore, Democrat leadership on the House Rules Committee rejected Republican amendments to the bill, including Franklin’s amendment which would remove a partisan attack on former President Donald Trump. ""Today, I voted against H.R. 5665. I condemn all forms of religious bigotry, but find it disappointing (though not surprising) that my Democrat colleagues are using a serious issue as a tool to engage in a partisan attack against former President Trump,"" said Rep. Franklin. ""Their refusal to even discuss Republican amendments makes it clear that my Democrat colleagues are not serious about condemning religious bigotry across the globe."" BACKGROUND Section 4 of H.R. 5665 includes a phrase which prevents funds made available by the act to be used “to promote or endorse a Muslim ban, such as the one instituted by former President Trump.” Traditionally, Congress has avoided specifically targeting politicians in the laws it drafts. The inclusion of former President Trump in the Act breaks this precedent. Rep. Franklin’s amendment would have struck this language from the bill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=370,Franklin Urges Action to Allow Florida to Cut Taxes Without Penalty,2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Representative Scott Franklin (R–FL) joined House Ways and Means Ranking Member Rep. Kevin Brady (R–TX) and House Oversight and Government Reform Republican Leader James Comer (R–KY) in cosponsoring the State Tax Freedom Act, H.R. 2189, which opposes an unconstitutional provision of the American Rescue Plan Act that restricts states’ autonomy to cut taxes and manage their own finances. ""States that have helped workers, families, and Main Street businesses through tax relief need greater flexibility, not shackles from the federal government,"" said Rep. Brady. ""Democrats rammed through an unconstitutional provision with no committee hearings or input from the states, and this bill [The State Tax and Freedom Act] will protect states’ freedom to make their own fiscal decisions."" “The American Rescue Plan is not only a massive $1.9 trillion spending spree that has the potential to destroy our economy, but also dictates how states like Florida who have properly managed their budgets during the pandemic can utilize resources. We should be prioritizing efforts to lower taxes and grow our economy rather than offering bailouts to states with high unemployment rates and mishandled finances,” Rep. Franklin said. “The American Rescue Plan Act is an assault on state sovereignty, while the State Tax Freedom Act will restore states ability to help their residents by promoting pro-growth policies.” The State Tax Freedom Act revokes the ban on states’ freedom to decrease taxes if they receive money from the American Rescue Plan Act’s Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund. Furthermore, the bill requires the Treasury to return the state any money withheld due to the state cutting taxes. Florida’s Attorney General, Ashley Moody, and twenty additional state Attorneys General have also raised concerns about the issue in a March 16 letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2766,"Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Supports Port Everglades Expansion Plans, Supply Chain Relief and Job Creation",2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Debbie Wasserman Schultz,W000797,wassermanschultz.house.gov,wassermanschultz,https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"**MEDIA ADVISORY for Today, Dec. 15 at 10:15 AM** Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) will join Port Everglades and union officials to discuss how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law stands to help with the local port’s expansion plans, aid in relieving national supply chain issues, and generate quality new local jobs. The Biden Infrastructure Law invests $17 billion in America’s port infrastructure and waterways to address repair and maintenance backlogs, and reduce congestion and emissions near ports and airports, and Port Everglades will be at the forefront of applying for those funds. The new transformational law is part of a broader effort to support the middle class, grow the economy, create good-paying American jobs, and show the American people that good governance works. The legislation not only tackles the nation’s neglected infrastructure needs, but it also confronts supply-chain issues caused by the global pandemic, helping keep everyday costs down for all Americans. Today, Rep. Wasserman Schultz and other officials will discuss these solutions, and how South Florida’s international cruise and cargo hub is a key to unlocking them. WHO: Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) Representatives from: International Longshoremen's Association Local 1526 Port Everglades WHEN: Today, December 15, 2021 Arrive no later than 10:15 a.m. News conference starts at 10:30 a.m. WHERE: Media should meet in the parking lot at the Port Everglades Administration Building 1850 Eller Drive Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=CCFF9D26-7A9E-4E8F-A4D2-FB662E09F084,Webster & Graves Introduce Bill to Ban Vaccine Passports for Travel,2021-12-14,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - Congressman Daniel Webster (R-FL) and Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO) introduced the SAFER Travel Act, H.R. 6257, to ban federal vaccine passports and quarantine requirements for travel. ""President Biden, his administration and Democrats in Congress are out of control as they continue to push more mandates and restrictions on the American people,” said Rep. Webster, who serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “This is not about science or public health; this is fearmongering to maintain control and it has to stop. This bill protects the privacy and personal freedoms of American citizens to make healthcare decisions in consultation with their doctor – not because of demands by Washington politicians or bureaucrats. I will continue to work with my colleagues to defend the freedoms of the American people.” “You shouldn’t need a vaccine passport to get on a train, board a plane, or travel home for the holidays,” said Rep. Sam Graves, Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “This bill would put that terrible idea to bed once and for all. The vaccines have proven to be the safest and most effective tool we have against preventing COVID-19, but the federal government has no business mandating them for travel, work, or anything else. It’s a personal decision and it needs to stay that way.” H.R. 6257 would prohibit COVID-19 vaccine mandates or quarantine requirements on Americans for the purposes of travel. The science and data are clear, the vast majority of Americans have received a COVID-19 vaccine or have natural immunity from previous infection. Those vaccinated can contract and spread COVID-19 making mandates completely nonsensical. Earlier this month, the CDC and White House officials announced additional restrictions on Americans traveling domestically and abroad were possible, including additional testing and quarantines. Travel restrictions and mandates continue to be considered without any consideration or accountability for the emotional and physical ramifications on families and individuals’ mental health. Drug overdose deaths hit a record high from May 2020 – April 2021, which Michael Barnett, assistant professor of health policy and management at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health partially attributed to pandemic restrictions telling Newsweek, “People face enormous financial difficulties, mass unemployment, isolation… All of those things can test anyone’s resilience to addiction.” Congressman Webster has cosponsored legislation prohibiting President Biden’s COVID-19 mandate on private businesses, federal contractors and those who provide Medicare and Medicaid services. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/area-agency-aging-pasco-pinellas-announces-new-initiative-aims-enhance-senior,AREA AGENCY ON AGING OF PASCO – PINELLAS ANNOUNCES NEW INITIATIVE THAT AIMS TO ENHANCE SENIOR SAFETY IN PASCO AND PINELLAS COUNTIES,2021-12-13,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Oldsmar, Florida, Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas (AAAPP), a nonprofit focused on coordinating services to keep seniors healthy and independent, today announced a community program in collaboration with Ring to support senior safety in Pasco and Pinellas counties. Attached are pictures from the Press Conference announcing this initiative. During the press conference, Ring also presented AAAPP with an additional $20,000 donation to support the work of this worthwhile senior advocacy organization. For almost fifty years, AAAPP has advocated, educated, and empowered seniors living throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties and promoted their independence. Through our network of community partners, AAAPP provides resources to seniors, adults with disabilities and caregivers needed to maintain independence, promote healthy aging and live an optimal quality of life. With AAAPP's support, Ring, whose mission is to make neighborhoods safer, is donating 1,000 Ring Video Doorbells, including free installation and a Ring Protect subscription, to local residents 60 years and older throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties, as defined by AAAPP. AAAPP believes that the donation will help promote the safety and stability of senior residents in Pasco and Pinellas counties. ""Now that so many of the seniors we serve live independently, it's increasingly important to ensure that they're safe at home,"" said Ann Marie Winter, Executive Director of AAAPP. ""We're grateful to share our work and services to educate and empower seniors in Pasco and Pinellas counties. With this initiative, we hope to help 1,000 seniors feel safe in their homes. That is priceless."" ""We have an obligation to support vulnerable members of our community and help protect them,"" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. ""This exciting collaboration harnesses the technology available in the private sector and the existing infrastructure of an effective senior advocacy organization to help seniors and support AAAPP's comprehensive initiatives. Seniors using this product can feel more comfortable at home or when someone comes to their door, which inherently contributes to safety."" ""Ring is proud to support and learn from AAAPP, an organization that supports local elder communities with comprehensive programs and advocates for comfortably aging in place,"" said Leila Rouhi, President of Ring. ""We hope that this donation makes a difference for seniors throughout west central Florida in supplementing safety measures that are easy-to-use and convenient. We strive to help build safer neighborhoods for everyone and to extend AAAPP's community impact to support seniors' well-being, safety and independence."" Program Overview: Up to 1,000 Ring Video Doorbells will be donated at no cost to senior residents 60 years and older. Ring will cover the installation cost associated with the donated device. Ring will provide a Ring Protect Basic video recording subscription for the life of the donated device at no cost to senior residents. Ring will provide a Security Yard Sign with each donated device at no cost to senior residents. Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements will be selected to receive a donated device on a first come, first served basis. Residents interested in receiving a donated device can apply on Ring's website here starting December 13th. About the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas is a non-profit organization that has been serving seniors and individuals with disabilities in our community since 1974. We serve as the Aging and Disability Resource Center for the entire two county area, providing an initial entry point for all aging and disability social services and coordinating a network of partners and providers to better meet the needs of our aging population. Our mission is to be a trusted resource to advocate, educate and empower seniors, adults with disabilities and caregivers which promotes independence, in partnership with the community. Find out more at www.AgingCareFL.org.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-leads-fla-delegation-letter-biden-supply-chain-crisis,Buchanan Leads Fla. Delegation Letter to Biden on Supply Chain Crisis,2021-12-13,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Amid ongoing delays at West Coast seaports, Congressman Vern Buchanan today led a letter signed by 17 bipartisan members of the Florida congressional delegation advocating for increased use of Florida’s 15 deepwater ports. “As the holidays approach, American businesses and families are feeling the effects firsthand of the continued supply chain bottlenecks,” said Buchanan. “Given Florida’s unique geographic location, our 15 deepwater seaports can handle increased freight traffic and meet holiday demands for consumers around the country, and they are ready to get to work.” In a letter to President Biden, the members offered to work with the Biden administration to utilize Florida’s ports as an alternative to the West Coast that continues to see unprecedented delays in offloading cargo, leading to severe supply chain congestion. Recent reports state that almost 90 cargo ships were left idling off the Port of Long Beach or the Port of Los Angeles while waiting to offload their containers. At one point, this logjam led to 17-day delays for ships, further delaying the arrival of shipments to consumers. In just the last two years, the State of Florida has invested nearly $1 billion in projects to increase seaport capacity and plans to spend an additional $200 million over the next several years to improve the state’s roadways to handle increased freight movements. Additionally, unlike other ports across the country, many of Florida’s ports have been functioning at full capacity 24 hours-a-day, seven days a week, for quite some time. “Today, our ports stand ready to help alleviate current systemic freight backlogs all over the country and are well-equipped to handle additional capacity,” said the members in the letter. “In short, Florida is open for business.” Florida Ports Council President and CEO Mike Rubin praised the lawmakers and said, “The leadership and bipartisan efforts of Florida’s Congressional Delegation, is further demonstration that Florida’s seaports are open for business, and are a key solution in helping to alleviate the nation’s supply chain challenges … Special thanks to Congressman Vern Buchanan and Florida’s Congressional Delegation for his leadership on this important issue”.” Earlier this year, Governor Ron DeSantis also announced that Florida’s seaports can decrease congestion along shipping routes and welcomed businesses to reroute their cargo to a port along our coasts. You can read a full copy of the letter here or below. Dear Mr. President: As members of the Florida Congressional delegation representing our state’s world-class network of 15 deepwater seaports, we stand ready to work with you and your administration to help provide important and much-needed alternatives to congested shipping routes around the country. In successfully moving over 100 million tons of cargo and millions of cruise passengers annually, Florida’s seaports currently support a vast array of global commercial industries. Working together with the federal government, Florida’s seaports can save consumers money, support American jobs, grow our economy and offer near-term relief for our nation’s current supply chain bottleneck affecting many aspects of our daily lives. According to recent news reports, a back-up of almost 90 cargo ships waiting to enter either the Port of Long Beach or the Port of Los Angeles extended south almost to San Diego. This logjam meant cargo ships were waiting, on average, almost 17 days just to off-load their containers. We believe that our seaports are underutilized assets that can help reduce, if not eliminate, the delays plaguing our domestic supply chain and are asking you to work with us to help make this a reality. In Florida, there are currently no delays at our ports in large part because many of them have been operating 24 hours-a-day for quite some time, while other ports around the country are just now announcing around-the-clock operations. With the holiday season upon us and the United States struggling to solve crippling congestion in our supply chain, our 15 ports and unique geographical location offer a more efficient alternative to certain West Coast ports. Since 2019, the State of Florida has invested nearly $1 billion in capacity-building projects for our ports and plans to spend $200 million over the next few years to further enhance the state’s inland freight-handling capacity. Furthermore, our ports have matched these investments and are committed to using additional resources to expand their services to meet demand. Consequently, our transportation infrastructure can handle increased freight traffic immediately and that capacity will only continue to grow. Today, our ports stand ready to help alleviate current systemic freight backlogs all over the country and are well-equipped to handle additional capacity. In short, Florida is open for business. Again, we welcome the opportunity to work with your administration to help take further advantage of Florida’s 15 deepwater seaports and to serve as an important part of the solution to the ongoing supply chain crisis.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D4FEDA59-2270-473C-857B-1CC44B113895,Webster and Florida Delegation Tell Biden to Use FL Seaports,2021-12-13,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, and 17 bipartisan members of the Florida congressional delegation advocates for increased use of Florida’s 15 deepwater ports. “I am a longtime supporter and advocate for Florida’s Ports, which have capacity to help alleviate the current backlog of cargo activity,” said Rep. Webster. “Thanks to our location and network of highways and railways, the Sunshine State can manage increased freight traffic and help make sure consumer demand is met during this holiday season.” In a letter to President Biden, the members offered to work with the Biden administration to utilize Florida’s ports as an alternative to the West Coast that continues to see unprecedented delays in offloading cargo, leading to severe supply chain congestion. Recent reports state that almost 90 cargo ships were left idling off the Port of Long Beach or the Port of Los Angeles while waiting to offload their containers. At one point, this logjam led to 17-day delays for ships, further delaying the arrival of shipments to consumers. In just the last two years, the State of Florida has invested nearly $1 billion in projects to increase seaport capacity and plans to spend an additional $200 million over the next several years to improve the state’s roadways to handle increased freight movements. Additionally, unlike other ports across the country, many of Florida’s ports have been functioning at full capacity 24 hours-a-day, seven days a week, for quite some time. “Today, our ports stand ready to help alleviate current systemic freight backlogs all over the country and are well-equipped to handle additional capacity,” said the members in the letter. “In short, Florida is open for business.” Florida Ports Council President and CEO Mike Rubin praised the lawmakers and said, “The leadership and bipartisan efforts of Florida’s Congressional Delegation, is further demonstration that Florida’s seaports are open for business, and are a key solution in helping to alleviate the nation’s supply chain challenges.” Earlier this year, Governor Ron DeSantis also announced that Florida’s seaports can decrease congestion along shipping routes and welcomed businesses to reroute their cargo to a port along our coasts. You can read a full copy of the letter here or below. Dear Mr. President: As members of the Florida Congressional delegation representing our state’s world-class network of 15 deepwater seaports, we stand ready to work with you and your administration to help provide important and much-needed alternatives to congested shipping routes around the country. In successfully moving over 100 million tons of cargo and millions of cruise passengers annually, Florida’s seaports currently support a vast array of global commercial industries. Working together with the federal government, Florida’s seaports can save consumers money, support American jobs, grow our economy and offer near-term relief for our nation’s current supply chain bottleneck affecting many aspects of our daily lives. According to recent news reports, a back-up of almost 90 cargo ships waiting to enter either the Port of Long Beach or the Port of Los Angeles extended south almost to San Diego. This logjam meant cargo ships were waiting, on average, almost 17 days just to off-load their containers. We believe that our seaports are underutilized assets that can help reduce, if not eliminate, the delays plaguing our domestic supply chain and are asking you to work with us to help make this a reality. In Florida, there are currently no delays at our ports in large part because many of them have been operating 24 hours-a-day for quite some time, while other ports around the country are just now announcing around-the-clock operations. With the holiday season upon us and the United States struggling to solve crippling congestion in our supply chain, our 15 ports and unique geographical location offer a more efficient alternative to certain West Coast ports. Since 2019, the State of Florida has invested nearly $1 billion in capacity-building projects for our ports and plans to spend $200 million over the next few years to further enhance the state’s inland freight-handling capacity. Furthermore, our ports have matched these investments and are committed to using additional resources to expand their services to meet demand. Consequently, our transportation infrastructure can handle increased freight traffic immediately and that capacity will only continue to grow. Today, our ports stand ready to help alleviate current systemic freight backlogs all over the country and are well-equipped to handle additional capacity. In short, Florida is open for business. Again, we welcome the opportunity to work with your administration to help take further advantage of Florida’s 15 deepwater seaports and to serve as an important part of the solution to the ongoing supply chain crisis. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=504,Reps. Donalds and Crow Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Empower Fintechs,2021-12-10,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Byron Donalds,D000032,donalds.house.gov,donalds,https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) and Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) announced the introduction of the Expanding Access to Affordable Credit for Small Businesses Act. This bill is the fourth bipartisan piece of legislation sponsored by Rep. Donalds. This bipartisan legislation optimizes the full capability of the free market by expanding the criteria of the Small Business Administration’s 7(a) loan program to allow fintech companies the opportunity to provide loans to America’s small businesses. “Fintech lending is the future of small business lending, and this legislation modernizes how small businesses access capital. Empowering and equipping the fintech sector of the economy to offer private loans creates more opportunities for American small enterprises to achieve prosperity,” said Rep. Donalds. “This is commonsense, bipartisan legislation that deploys a willing and ready private sector to meet the needs of our nation’s small businesses in a sustainable way and creates a pathway for entrepreneurs to pursue their American Dream.” “Small businesses are the backbone of the U.S. economy. A big part of our work on the Small Business Committee is ensuring that our small business owners have the resources they need to succeed,” said Rep. Crow. “It’s my pleasure to work on a bipartisan basis with Congressman Donalds to expand the 7(a) small business loan program to ensure funding for our new and growing small businesses.” The bill text can be read in its entirety here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F5C97A39-911F-4CDC-911F-B949D6F0F1C5,"Webster and Bipartisan Florida, Texas Members Urge USDA to Reverse Decision that Harms American Grapefruit Growers",2021-12-10,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, joined U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Rick Scott (R-FL) and members of the Florida and Texas Congressional Delegations to urge the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Tom Vilsack to reverse the Department’s unjustified decision to administratively suspend juice content standards for imported grapefruits, and to request information regarding the circumstances of the suspension, which was made without a proper rulemaking process, and for which Congress was not notified. Following the suspension of grapefruit juice content standards, Texas A&M University found in November 2021, that more than 85 percent of grapefruits imported from Mexico in September and October would have “failed quality standards and been rejected,” if not for the suspension of juice content standards by Secretary Vilsack. “The suspension of grapefruit juice standards for imported grapefruits poses a serious threat to American growers and undermines their ability to compete in the American market at a pivotal time. In recent months and years, our grapefruit growers have been severely impacted by natural disasters and citrus diseases,” the members wrote. “Now, this suspension allows low quality grapefruit products to flood our market, and forces our growers to compete against low-cost, subsidized imports. This regulatory patch is discriminatory in nature, as substandard grapefruit products can now be imported, meanwhile, American-grown grapefruits must still meet juice content standards. Additionally, as these imported grapefruits are of poor quality due to their low juice content, American consumers may become averse to purchasing grapefruits, as the substandard imported products could adversely impact the entire market due to unmet consumer expectations.” “The core mission of USDA is to promote and support American agricultural producers, not to disadvantage them by creating unfair advantages for foreign growers. As such, we urge you to immediately reinstate juice content standards for imported grapefruits,” the members added. Representatives Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Stephanie Murphy (D-FL), Al Lawson (D-FL), Greg Steube (R-FL), Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Tony Gonzales (R-TX), Michael Waltz (R-FL), Louie Gohmert (R-TX), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Michael Cloud (R-TX), Kat Cammack (R-FL), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), Darren Soto (D-FL), and Henry Cuellar (D-TX), and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) signed the letter. The full text of the letter is below. Dear Secretary Vilsack: We write to urge you to immediately reverse a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) decision to suspend Section 8e grapefruit juice content standards for imported grapefruits via marketing order “Patch #65.” Additionally, we seek to understand why the USDA implemented this regulatory patch without public notification or input. The suspension of grapefruit juice standards for imported grapefruits poses a serious threat to American growers and undermines their ability to compete in the American market at a pivotal time. In recent months and years, our grapefruit growers have been severely impacted by natural disasters and citrus diseases. Now, this suspension allows low quality grapefruit products to flood our market, and forces our growers to compete against low-cost, subsidized imports. This regulatory patch is discriminatory in nature, as substandard grapefruit products can now be imported, meanwhile, American-grown grapefruits must still meet juice content standards. Additionally, as these imported grapefruits are of poor quality due to their low juice content, American consumers may have become averse to purchasing grapefruits, as the substandard imported products could adversely impact the entire market due to unmet consumer expectations. In addition to immediately reinstating the juice content standards for imported grapefruits, we ask you to address each of the following questions in a written response: Why did USDA implement Patch #65? Which authority did the USDA use to suspend the Section 8e juice content standards for imported grapefruits? Was this patch implemented at the request of a federal government agency? If so, which agency? Why did the USDA implement Patch #65 without soliciting public comments or notifying Congress? Was this patch implemented as part of an agreement with, or an effort to secure an agreement with, a foreign government or entity? If so, please explain the context for the issuance of this patch. The core mission of USDA is to promote and support American agricultural producers, not to disadvantage them by creating unfair advantages for foreign growers. As such, we urge you to immediately reinstate juice content standards for imported grapefruits. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to receiving your response in a timely manner. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-speaks-house-floor-about-faces-fentanyl,Bilirakis Speaks on the House Floor about the Faces of Fentanyl,2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC: Saddened by the overdose epidemic that is worsening throughout the nation, Congressman Bilirakis took to the House Floor late last night to spur much needed Congressional action as deaths involving synthetic opioids continue to skyrocket. ""In Pasco County, 193 people have died from overdose since January. The vast majority of these cases involved fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances. I have also received hundreds of heartbreaking stories from constituents whose families have been devastated by addiction. One constituent, MaryAnne, said this: ""I lost my adult son in June of 2021 to a fentanyl overdose. The system failed me in every single way. With open borders, enough fentanyl came pouring into our country's southern border to kill 70% of our population. My son is sadly one of those statistics."" Parents like MaryAnne are the faces of the fentanyl crisis. The tragedies these families have experienced are the reason why we must fight back.The first step is to secure our border,"" said Congressman Bilirakis. ""We must also hold China accountable for its continued role in this crisis."" The U.S. Justice Department testified in September that Mexican criminal drug networks are mass-producing illicit fentanyl and fentanyl-laced fake pills, using chemicals sourced largely from China, and are distributing these pills through U.S. criminal networks. These fake pills are designed to appear nearly identical to legitimate prescriptions such as OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin, Adderall, Xanax and other medicines. Criminal drug networks are selling these pills through social media, e-commerce, the dark web, and existing distribution networks. As a result, these deadly fake pills are widely available. ""If we've learned anything from the pandemic it's that we should be very skeptical of China,"" noted Bilirakis. ""The Trump Administration was very tough on China and on border security. But since, we've seen a relaxing of these policies. As a result, we're seeing a surge of trafficking and subsequent overdoses in communities like mine. We must crack down on China and secure our southern border.We must also permanently place all fentanyl-related substances into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act and give law enforcement the tools it needs to seize these deadly substances as soon as they are found and thus keep them off our streets. To achieve that goal, I support the HALT Fentanyl Act authored by my colleagues, Representatives Latta and Griffith, which will permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I and save countless lives.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bill-strengthen-us-hellenic-relations-passes-part-ndaa-poised-become-law,"Bill to Strengthen US-Hellenic Relations Passes as Part of the NDAA, Poised to Become Law",2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC: As members of the Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance (CHIA), Representatives Gus Bilirakis, Ted Deutch, and Nicole Malliotakis celebrate the inclusion of the US-Greece Defense and Interparliamentary Partnership Act in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bill, which was co-authored by CHIA Co-Chairs Rep. Bilirakis and Deutch, will strengthen the defense partnership between the United States and Greece, by supporting Greek military modernization and multilateral security efforts between Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States. The NDAA is poised for swift passage in the Senate, sending it to the President to be signed into law. ""Greece has consistently proven itself to be a reliable ally in the Eastern Mediterranean. This critical legislation bolsters Greece's efforts to modernize its armed forces, while strengthening our strategic partnership among our Hellenic partners. It also enables continued security cooperation to help facilitate enduring stability throughout the region,"" Congressman Bilirakis remarked. ""The inclusion of this legislation in the NDAA is a natural extension of the growing United States strategic security partnership with Greece and other eastern Mediterranean allies,"" Rep. Deutch said. ""We are building on this mutually beneficial defense relationship by bolstering Greece's military capabilities and fostering interparliamentary engagement between the United States, Greece, Cyprus, and Israel."" ""I'm proud to join Representatives Bilirakis and Deutch in supporting legislation that strengthens the U.S.-Greek military partnership, supports the modernization of Greece's military along with a multilateral security cooperation between Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States,"" said Congresswoman Malliotakis. ""This legislation is critical to ensuring stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and I'm pleased to see it pass the House in a bipartisan fashion."" Key provisions of the legislation include: Support for Greek Military Modernization: Authorizes European Recapitalization Incentive Program (ERIP) assistance to Greece to support Greece's transition away from Russian-produced military equipment Authorizes $1.8 million per year in International Military Education and Training (IMET) assistance to Greece for FY2022 – 2026 Expresses the Sense of Congress that the U.S. should provide direct loans to Greece for the procurement of defense articles, defense services, and design and construction services pursuant to the further development of Greece's military force Transfer of American Military Equipment to Greece: Authorizes expedited delivery of any future F-35 aircraft ordered by Greece Requires the Secretary of Defense, with the concurrence of the Secretary of State, to submit a report to Congress on Greece's defense needs and how the United States will seek to address such needs through transfers of excess defense equipment to Greece Parliamentary Engagement within the 3+1 Framework:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/four-more-bilirakis-bills-pass-house-await-final-action-senate,"Four More Bilirakis Bills Pass the House, Await Final Action in the Senate",2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC: Continuing his strong record of legislative achievement, four more bills co-authored by Congressman Gus Bilirakis have passed out of the U.S. House of Representatives. Since the beginning of the year, three Bilirakis-authored bills have been signed into law, and nine more have passed out of the House Chamber (including these four). A summary of the newest Bilirakis bills to pass the House are included below. H.R. 3894– CARING for Social Determinants Act of 2021 will require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide guidance to states to address social determinants of health under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). There is growing recognition in the field of public health that reducing long-standing disparities in health outcomes is dependent on systemically addressing the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence overall health and wellness. Examples of social determinants of health include: socioeconomic status, education, physical environment, employment, social support networks and access to healthcare. The Bilirakis-Blunt Rochester bill will provide ongoing guidance to State Medicaid programs every three years regarding how to implement research-proven strategies to optimize social determinants of health under existing Medicaid authority or waivers, especially for pediatric populations. This legislation builds upon the success that some state Medicaid programs have already seen since testing innovative delivery and payment models designed to improve health outcomes while reducing costs. ""This is commonsense, bipartisan legislation that employs the basic principles of hierarchical needs. We have to look at the big picture. It is impossible to improve the population health of communities without addressing the factors that contribute to poor health outcomes. This is especially true when examining programs for children. For example, efforts to combat childhood obesity in at-risk populations, which lead to excessive healthcare expenditures, are most successful when combined with strategies designed to make sure low-income families have access to affordable, healthy food options. Prevention, education and improving access are essential components of effective public health programs. This isn't just a pragmatic approach, it is the right thing to do as we work to ensure all children have the best possible start in life,"" said Congressman Bilirakis. H.R. 4055– American Cybersecurity Literacy Actwill require the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to establish a cybersecurity literacy campaign to increase knowledge and awareness of cybersecurity risks among the American public, including best practices for preventing cyberattacks. ""In recent months we have seen disruptive cyberattacks on some of our nations' most critical infrastructure systems, such as the Colonial Pipeline. In my district, a hacker was recently able to penetrate a local government's security measures and temporarily change the chemical settings of the city's water supply to a potentially dangerous level. Fortunately, the breach was discovered before anyone was in danger. However, these incidents underscore the importance of fortifying and modernizing our critical infrastructure to prevent further attacks,"" Bilirakis said. """"Our bipartisan legislation will develop a national education campaign to raise awareness of attacks and the practical steps that can be taken to thwart future bad actors. This is a matter of national security and we must do everything we can to protect all Americans from those who wish to do us harm."" H.R. 2355– Opioid Prescription Verification Act of 2021 will strengthen electronic prescribing and verification practices at pharmacies and build off of work that Bilirakis did in the SUPPORT Act to improve the use of electronic Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs across the health care system. ""Many of my constituents are overdosing and dying at alarming rates. We have to take practical steps to put additional safeguards in place in order to reverse that troubling trend, curb opioid abuse, and save lives,"" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. H.R. 4555 - Oral Health Literacy and Awareness Act directs the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to develop an oral health literacy strategy to reach underserved communities. This bipartisan bill aims to curb the rise in oral disease and related illnesses by providing prevention education through a five-year oral health literacy campaign. ""Oral health is a vital component of overall wellness that is too often overlooked. As with many aspects of healthcare, prevention is key to long-term health. Lack of good oral hygiene has been proven to exacerbate chronic health conditions and contributes to costly, yet preventable, emergency care,"" said Congressman Bilirakis. ""I am proud to be a part of this initiative to raise awareness about the proactive steps that can be taken to improve oral healthcare as I believe it will improve patient outcomes."" The following are Bilirakis-bills that have been signed into law this Congress: The TRANSPLANT Act -reauthorizes the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program and the National Cord Blood Inventory. It will help tens of thousands of Americans of all ages who suffer with diseases like blood cancer, sickle cell anemia, inherited metabolic or immune system disorders and 70 otherwise fatal blood disorders. The Protecting Moms Who Served Act – improves maternal health care for Veterans The FAIR Crash Tests Act - improves the federal government's vehicle safety testing practices, specifically those involving the use of crash test dummies. Additionally, the following five Bilirakis bills passed the House earlier this year: The Emergency Reporting Act which will improve the resiliency of communications networks during emergencies. The Effective Suicide Screening and Assessment in the Emergency Department Act which standardized the suicide screening tool used in emergency rooms. The STAND-UP Act which promotes the use of evidence based practices to identify students who may be at-risk for mental health issues and link them to community resources. The Department of Defense (DOD) Burn Pits Health Provider Training Act, which implements mandatory training for all DOD medical providers on the potential health effects of burn pits. This legislative change will help ensure the early identification and treatment of health issues caused by burn pit exposure (will become law with expected Senate passage of NDAA,). The US-Greece Defense and Interparliamentary Partnership Act, which will strengthen the defense partnership between the United States and Greece, including by supporting Greek military modernization and multilateral security efforts between Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States (will become law with expected Senate passage of NDAA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/breaking-cortez-post-office-announces-five-year-lease-extension,BREAKING: Cortez Post Office Announces Five-Year Lease Extension,2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"BRADENTON, Fla. – Congressman Vern Buchanan today announced that the Cortez post office signed a lease extension through July 31, 2026 and will remain open in its current location. “I am pleased to see the Cortez post office reach a long-term solution and remain open for my constituents in the area,” said Buchanan. “The Postal Service has been incredibly responsive to my concerns about the undue burden closing this facility would place on residents, and I’m glad we were finally able to find a more permanent solution. I appreciate the Postal Service for following through on their commitment to keeping the Cortez post office open going forward.” Earlier this year, Buchanan wrote to the Postal Service to express his concern about the strain closing the Cortez post office would place on residents. Those who are serviced by the Cortez post office may have to travel more than 10 miles round trip in heavy seasonal traffic to receive their mail had the facility closed. There is no carrier delivery in the area served by this post office. Buchanan has been in close contact with the head of the Suncoast postal district, Stephen Hardin, to urge the postal service to maintain a post office in Cortez. Earlier this year, an eviction notice was filed against the postal service.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-kat-cammack-eddie-bernice-johnson-introduce-bipartisan-taiwan,"Reps. Kat Cammack, Eddie Bernice Johnson Introduce Bipartisan Taiwan Preclearance Act",2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) and Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX-30) introduced the Taiwan Preclearance Act. The bill expresses the importance of the United States' relationship with Taiwan and Taiwan's importance in the Indo-Pacific region. The bill also requires a report on establishing a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) preclearance facility at the Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). The Taipei Taoyuan International Airport offers dozens of flights a week to and from the United States, with connections throughout Asia. The establishment of a preclearance facility will create a seamless experience for U.S.-bound passengers and further encourage growth in travel between Taiwan and the U.S. ""I am excited to introduce this important measure in the House to ensure the United States' support of an airport preclearance facility at the Taipei International Airport in Taiwan,"" said Rep. Cammack. ""Taiwan is one of our most important allies and an essential economic partner with shared values and security priorities. This new facility will ensure easier, safer travel—something that is long overdue. I'm grateful to Rep. Johnson for her partnership in this effort."" ""Throughout my career, I have been a strong supporter of the Taiwanese people and the right to travel freely and safely between the United States and Taiwan,"" added Rep. Johnson. ""At a time when the United States and Taiwan are more connected than ever before, it is critical that we signal Taiwan’s importance as a geostrategic security partner. That is why I am proud to work with Rep. Cammack to increase security and convenience in the travel process through the establishment of a preclearance facility in Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)."" ""Taiwan is a longstanding ally and trusted Indo-Pacific partner,"" said Rep. Balderson (R-OH-12). ""This first step in establishing a preclearance facility at the Taipei Taoyuan International Airport further strengthens the enduring relationship between our two countries in the face of Chinese Community Party aggression and opens the door for increased commercial and tourism opportunities in the region."" ""Strengthening our economic and security partnership with Taiwan should continue to be of the utmost importance,"" said Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH-01). ""This bipartisan legislation to study the establishment of a customs preclearance location in Taiwan is a commonsense step in our diplomatic partnership, and I will continue to advocate for policies that will strengthen our relationship."" ""The United States and Taiwan share a commitment to democratic values and sound economic principles,"" said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01). ""Given our economic ties and security priorities, establishing a CBP preclearance facility in Taiwan is a logical way to increase collaboration with our strategic partner. Our bipartisan Taiwan Preclearance Act will also benefit American travelers by ensuring safe and efficient travel throughout the Indo-Pacific region."" Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) introduced the Senate companion last week. Bill cosponsors at the time of introduction include Reps. Eddie Bernice Johnson, Troy Balderson, Michael Burgess, Rodney Davis, Scott DesJarlais, Mario Diaz-Balart, Brian Fitzpatrick, Scott Franklin, Carlos Gimenez, Bill Johnson, Frank Lucas, Nancy Mace, Tracey Mann, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Chris Pappas, Donald Payne, Jr., and Kurt Schrader.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3376,Rep. Frankel Announces Nearly $1.4 million to Delray Beach for Hurricane Irma Expenses,2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) announced that Delray Beach will receive $1,395,121 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for protective measures in response to Hurricane Irma. The money will reimburse the city for costs relating to emergency sewage pumping, sandbagging at police stations, safety inspections, supplies and commodities to citizens, and the purchase of generators to supply temporary power to multiple areas citywide. “Four years ago, Hurricane Irma brought flood waters, strong winds, and deadly destruction to our state, and cities like Delray Beach spent millions of dollars to keep their communities safe and recover from the storm,” said Rep. Frankel. “Thankfully, Congress has been able to provide billions in relief to areas like ours, and this new round of funding will help Delray Beach continue to heal and prepare for future hurricane seasons.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-inserta-la-letra-de-patria-y-vida-en-el-diario-de-sesiones,Díaz-Balart inserta la letra de “Patria y Vida” en el Diario de Sesiones del Congreso,2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Hoy el Congresista Mario Díaz-Balart insertó la letra de Patria y Vida en el Diario de Sesiones del Congreso. Patria y Vida es más que una canción. Es un himno, un rayo de esperanza para el pueblo cubano. Al incluir esta letra en el Diario de Sesiones del Congreso, el congresista Díaz-Balart logra que este Himno de libertad sea inmortalizado y preservado para las generaciones futuras. “Señora Presidenta, me levanto hoy en honor al Himno de libertad, “Patria y Vida” que representa a todos los cubanos que anhelan la libertad de su patria. La canción “Patria y Vida” es una colaboración entre músicos cubanos en el exilio y en la isla que se han unido en oposición a la dictadura y que juntos reclaman la libertad de expresión y el respeto a los derechos humanos. Los autores son Yotuel Romero, Beatriz Luengo, Maykel Osorbo, Eliecer Márquez Duany “El Funky”, Descemer Bueno, Alexander Delgado y Randy Malcom. El 18 de noviembre de 2021, “Patria y Vida” recibió dos premios Grammy, Canción del año y Mejor Canción Urbana en la 22ª Entrega Anual de los Premios Grammy Latinos. Hoy, uno de los autores de “Patria y Vida”, Maykel Castillo Pérez (comúnmente conocido como Maykel Osorbo), y Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara del Movimiento San Isidro que aparece en el video musical, permanecen en cárceles de máxima seguridad en Cuba por simplemente colaborar en la creación de Patria y Vida y manifestarse en contra de la opresión. Otro autor, Eliecer Márquez Duany ""El Funky"", fue exiliado después de estar detenido en arresto domiciliario. Estos valientes artistas sufren simplemente por exigir las libertades fundamentales que son derechos inherentes a toda persona. Ellos, y tantos otros en Cuba, lo han arriesgado todo por la libertad. Señora Presidenta, el pueblo cubano será libre. Hacia ese fin, me honra resaltar la importancia de una canción que se ha convertido en el Himno de todos los cubanos que reclaman la libertad para Cuba. Insto a mis colegas a que se unan a mí para apoyar esta noble causa, exigiendo que todos los presos políticos sean liberados, que se respeten los derechos básicos de expresión, reunión y creencias, y que se celebren elecciones libres, justas y pluripartidistas para el pueblo cubano”. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-submits-lyrics-song-patria-y-vida-congressional-record,"Diaz-Balart Submits Lyrics of Song ""Patria y Vida"" to the Congressional Record",2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart submitted the lyrics of Patria y Vida to the Congressional Record. Patria y Vida is more than a song. It is an anthem, a beacon of hope for the Cuban people. By adding these lyrics to the Congressional Record, Congressman Diaz-Balart ensures that this anthem of freedom is immortalized and preserved for generations to come. Read the complete Congressional Record here. “Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the anthem of freedom, “Patria y Vida” (Homeland and Life), which became a mantra for thousands of Cubans who took to the streets to protest the brutal and murderous Cuban dictatorship. The song is a collaboration between Cuban musicians in exile and on the island who have come together in opposition to the regime, and who together are demanding freedom of expression and respect for human rights. The co-authors are Yotuel Romero, Beatriz Luengo, Maykel Osorbo, Eliecer Marquez Duany “El Funky”, Descemer Bueno, Alexander Delgado and Randy Malcom. On November 18, 2021, “Patria y Vida” received two Grammy awards, Song of the Year and Best Urban Song, at the 22nd Annual Latin Grammy Awards. Today, one of the co-authors of “Patria y Vida,” Maykel Castillo Pérez (commonly known as Maykel Osorbo), and Luis Manuel Otero Alcántara of the San Isidro Movement who appears in the music video, remain incarcerated in maximum security prisons in Cuba for simply participating in this song and speaking out against oppression. Another co-author, Eliecer Marquez Duany “El Funky,” was sent into exile after being held on house arrest. These courageous artists suffer simply for voicing the fundamental freedoms that are the inherent rights of every person. They, and so many others in Cuba, have risked everything for freedom. Madam Speaker, the Cuban people will be free. Toward that goal, I am honored to highlight the importance of a song that has become an anthem for a movement, and for so many Cubans who are demanding freedom on the island. I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting this noble cause, in demanding that all political prisoners are released, basic rights to expression, assembly, and belief are respected, and free, fair and multiparty elections are scheduled.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/three-bilirakis-bills-pass-part-ndaa-poised-become-law,"Three Bilirakis Bills Pass as Part of the NDAA, Poised to Become Law",2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC: Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) proudly cast a vote in favor of this year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which is now headed back to the Senate and then to the President to become law. The package robustly funds our national security, provides pay raises for troops, takes action to counter the growing threats posed by Russia, China, and Iran, enhances the allowable exemptions from vaccine mandates in the military (while allowing an honorable discharge for those who elect not to take the vaccine), and strengthens cybersecurity protections for our nation's critical infrastructure. The proposal also seeks accountability for President Biden's botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, including requiring a quarterly report to Congress of the Americans, allies, and assets left behind. It prohibits the Administration from providing payments or other resources to the Taliban regime. The bill also provides enhanced resources and development for military healthcare. In addition to these favorable measures, the Congressman worked hard and successfully ensured that the objectionable red flag provisions and military draft requirement for women, were stripped from the final package. Three bills the Congressman co-authored are also included as part of the final NDAA. The first two are provisions he co-authored with Congressman Raul Ruiz related to burn pits. The first measure, the Department of Defense (DoD) Burn Pits Health Provider Training Act, implements mandatory training for all DoD medical providers on the potential health effects of burn pits. This legislative change will help ensure the early identification and treatment of health issues caused by burn pit exposure. The second provision, the Reducing Exposure to Burn Pits Act, requires the DOD to provide Congress with an estimate of funding currently dedicated for incinerators and waste-to-energy disposal alternatives to burn pits. This is an important first step in stopping the use of burn pits. ""We still have a long way to go as it relates to ensuring Veterans exposed to burn pits have access to the care and benefits they have earned, and we must keep pushing our TEAM Act which will achieve that moral imperative. However, our two provisions included in this package are a huge step in the right direction,"" said Congressman Bilirakis. The third bill included in the package, The US-Greece Defense and Interparliamentary Partnership Act, was co-authored by Representatives Bilirakis and Deutch. This legislation will strengthen the defense partnership between the United States and Greece, by supporting Greek military modernization and multilateral security efforts between Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and the United States. ""Greece has consistently proven itself to be a reliable ally in the Eastern Mediterranean. This critical legislation bolsters Greece's efforts to modernize its armed forces, while strengthening our strategic partnership among our Hellenic partners. It also enables continued security cooperation to help facilitate enduring stability throughout the region,"" Congressman Bilirakis remarked.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-proposal-included-house-passed-annual-defense-bill,Buchanan Proposal Included in House-Passed Annual Defense Bill,2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Vern Buchanan announced today that a series of sweeping new military training reforms he has been fighting for were included in the final version of the House-passed FY22 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation, which Buchanan introduced as a standalone bill (H.R. 5268) and then offered as an amendment to the NDAA in September, requires the Pentagon to implement more realistic training practices, develop stricter enforcement standards and ensure better oversight to prevent future military training accidents and deaths. The language closely mirrors a provision included in the final version of the NDAA which passed the U.S. House last night by a vote of 363-70. Buchanan has been a leading advocate in Congress for reforming our current training procedures and improving emergency response capabilities after the tragic death of Army Specialist Nicholas Panipinto of Bradenton. Panipinto died in a vehicle training accident in South Korea in 2019. “Improving tactical vehicle safety and military training capabilities will reduce future accidents and help save lives,” said Buchanan. “After the heartbreaking death of my constituent, Nicholas Panipinto, preventing these accidents has become one of my top priorities. I am pleased to see the House take action on this bipartisan legislation and look forward to the president signing it into law.” In July, a report released from the federal government’s top watchdog, which investigated non-combat tactical vehicle accidents, found that a lack of driver training and failures to properly oversee and implement key safety procedures were largely to blame for several fatal training accidents. Following this report, Buchanan called on the Pentagon to immediately adopt these recommendations. “The serious deficiencies and failures in tactical vehicle training required immediate action,” said Buchanan. “The loss of a single American soldier is tragic and the continued loss of service members in training accidents is completely unacceptable.” According to a report by the Congressional Research Service, between 2006 and 2018 a staggering 32 percent of active-duty military deaths were the result of training accidents. During that same period, only 16 percent of service members were killed in action. And in 2017 alone, nearly four times as many service members died in training accidents than were killed in action. In sworn testimony from the master driver in Panipinto’s unit, who was responsible for training troops on vehicles and administering licenses, the unit’s driver training program was “nonexistent.” The unnamed individual went on to state, “when I took over the program there was nothing, I had no paperwork for any soldiers with licenses. Soldiers came up to me and informed me that the previous master driver just gave them licenses without a 40-hour block of instruction.” According to Panipinto’s mother, Kimberly Weaver, Panipinto did not have a license, the required amount of driver training or any classroom instruction before beginning his road-test. Last year, Buchanan offered an amendment to the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act that was successfully signed into law. His amendment required the Department of Defense (DoD) to examine emergency response capabilities and services currently available at U.S. bases around the world, and to report to Congress on the potential benefits and feasibility of requiring bases to have properly functioning MedEvac helicopters and fully stocked military ambulances. In August 2020, Buchanan called on the House Armed Services Committee to hold a public hearing on military training accidents. Buchanan also sent a letter to then-Secretary of Defense Mark Esper in June 2020 proposing several changes to the training and safety protocols to prevent future deaths.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-cammack-issues-statements-house-amendment-s-1605-house-amendment,Congresswoman Cammack Issues Statements On House Amendment To S. 1605 & House Amendment To S. 610,2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This morning, Congresswoman Cammack issued the following statement on last night's votes on the House Amendment to S. 1605—the FY22 NDAA—and the House Amendment to S. 610—Sequestration, PAYGO, and the Debt Limit Package. On The FY22 NDAA: ""I want to thank the lead Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Mike Rogers, for his leadership on this piece of legislation. I join dozens of my colleagues in celebrating our collective, constructive work to get it across the finish line,"" said Rep. Kat Cammack. ""Together we kept our promises and removed dangerous red flag laws and woke policies that would establish unnecessary programs at the Department of Defense. This bill counters China, holds the administration accountable on Afghanistan, and ensures we fund our military and Florida National Guard. I'm proud to support it."" ""Rep. Cammack has been an ally in Congress for our troops. The NDAA is critical for our nation’s security, which is why it continues to have bipartisan and bicameral support,"" said Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL), Ranking Member of House Armed Services Committee. ""The FY22 NDAA strengthens our national security and provides servicemembers with the funding and tools they need. I thank Rep. Cammack for her continued support for our servicemembers."" On The House Amendment To S. 610: ""No one should be surprised that congressional Democrats have done it again: they've attached a debt limit increase to possible cuts to Medicare. They know that there is broad support on both sides of the aisle for mitigating large portions of these cuts, but Democrats included partisan provisions regarding the Statutory PAYGO and debt limit in their text. Republicans have offered alternatives that protect seniors and other populations to avoid damage to Medicare, but the Democrats wouldn't go for it, instead deciding to play political games. We cannot vote for a debt limit increase and urge our colleagues to the right thing to ensure our seniors aren't affected by this partisan nonsense.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=500,Rep. Donalds Statement on Communist Comptroller Nominee Saule Omarova Withdrawing Her Nomination,2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Byron Donalds,D000032,donalds.house.gov,donalds,https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) issued the following statement regarding Saule Omarova withdrawing her nomination for the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). “Yesterday’s announcement that Saule Omarova withdrew her nomination for the OCC was a significant win for America—we must always reject Communism when it knocks at our doorstep. As a proud Capitalist and American, it deeply concerns me that the Biden administration found Omarova the appropriate nominee for such a role. I find it just as disturbing that a majority of the Democrats in the Senate stood ready to confirm her absurd nomination.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403747,Rep. Castor Statement on House Passage of FY22 NDAA,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released the following statement upon the House’s second passage of the bipartisan FY22 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “Our men and women in uniform risk their lives daily to protect our families, our nation and our interests across the globe. We owe them the support necessary to meet ever-changing national security threats, and that’s why I am pleased that we have a path forward to overcome Senate Republican obstruction of the passage of the NDAA. Republican inaction is costly to our ever-evolving national security missions and leaves the military unable to plan operations effectively and confidently. When Republicans block a pay raise for our troops and fuel economic turmoil, it impacts everyone, businesses large and small and our incredible military families. Doing so as we enter the holiday season simply to score political points is cynical and wrong. “This bipartisan defense bill will bolster our national security and invest in new, innovative technologies to maintain America’s competitive edge over our adversaries including Russia and China. The Senate must do everything in its power to send this bill to President Biden’s desk without delay. “Investments including a 2.7 percent pay raise for our troops and an air purification assessment for base housing and other on-base facilities will better the lives of service members and their families. This follows up on my work to ensure that housing is safe and free from mold and shoddy construction – Congress is committed to continuing to ensure that housing is improved for MacDill families. “This legislation will also help us make progress on some of our climate goals, as we do more to help military installations reach net-zero on energy, water, and waste by 2035. It also takes steps to boost climate resilience across our military installations, to advance military preparedness to the growing threat of wildfire, and to expand long-duration energy storage. “Funding that I championed for Special Operations Forces also is contained in the bill, including an increase in funding to mitigate undiagnosed, untreated traumatic brain injuries and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The NDAA will also invest in the Joint MISO WebOps Center (JMWC), which I visited earlier this year at MacDill AFB, to help modernize their work in the global information space. “Important for all members of our military, this package follows up on the establishment of new diversity requirements for the Department of Defense, including the creation of a Diversity and Inclusion Council, and direction to change the names of military bases named after Confederate soldiers last Congress, this year’s NDAA takes further action to meet this moment and ensure our military is reflective of our nation. This includes the establishment of a basic needs allowance for low-income service members to ensure their families are taken care of while they serve our nation. Importantly, we also increase the allowable parental leave for primary and secondary caregivers, including foster parents, and an expansion of the in-home child care pilot program and financial assistance for in-home child care. These are important steps to serving our service men and women as well as they serve us. I urge the Senate to swiftly pass this year’s NDAA in order to better serve our heroes at MacDill and around the globe.” The NDAA includes the following priorities for MacDill Air Force Base and Tampa residents:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3375,Rep. Frankel Statement on the House Passage of the National Defense Authorization Act,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21), released the following statement after the House passed the 61st consecutive National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2022. This bipartisan, bicameral negotiated bill includes key provisions to strengthen America’s security and meet the needs of our servicemembers. “This National Defense Authorization Act is a big win for our men and women in uniform,” said Rep. Frankel. “This bipartisan bill modernizes our defenses, strengthens our national security, and provides a pay raise for members of the military. It acknowledges the importance of family by improving paid leave and increasing access to child care. It takes the decision to prosecute a sexual assault case out of the chain of command, better protecting survivors and holding perpetrators accountable. This NDAA also includes a historic acknowledgement of the importance of women’s participation in peace and security efforts to advance gender equality around the world.” The National Defense Authorization Act passed the House by a vote of 363 to 70 and will go to the Senate for final approval. For Rep. Frankel’s previous statement on the NDAA, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=309,Franklin Leads Letter Demanding Answers on Justice Department Efforts to Combat COVID-19 Relief Fraud,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, and his colleagues sent a letter on Monday to Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco requesting information on the Justice Department’s efforts to investigate and prosecute instances of COVID-19 relief fraud. “The theft of up to $280 billion in unemployment benefits due to fraudulent activity by foreign adversaries and criminals is a major scandal and a breach of our national security,” said Rep. Franklin. “To put this number in perspective, the amount of pandemic relief money lost to fraud over the past 18 months is the same as we spent on the Apollo program over 13 years to put men on the moon. Where possible, the perpetrators of these crimes should be tracked down and prosecuted, and those who negligently allowed this fraud, waste, and abuse to happen must be held accountable for betraying American taxpayers’ trust. Our government simply must instill stronger oversight into distribution of tax dollars. This is unacceptable and the American people deserve better.” The U.S. government has spent approximately $700 billion on unemployment benefits as part of its pandemic relief efforts. According to reports, approximately 40 percent ($280 billion) has been lost to fraud. Of the $280 billion, reports indicate that $175 billion was lost to transnational actors with $140 billion of that amount going to state-sponsored entities. At a recent staff briefing, the Department of Justice informed the House Committee on Oversight and Reform that it has charged nearly $1 billion in intended loss, and hundreds of millions in actual loss, of COVID-19 relief to fraud. Based on estimates, this would mean there are still hundreds of billions in unidentified loss. Additionally, the Department refused to share how many active cases involve transnational or state-sponsored organizations. Congress has a Constitutional responsibility to provide oversight of the government, including government spending. As the House of Representatives’ principal oversight Committee, the House Committee on Oversight has broad authority to investigate instances of fraud. Accordingly, Rep. Franklin’s letter requests that the Department provide a staff-level briefing addressing the following:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-applauds-environmental-protection-agency-funding-florida-through,Soto Applauds Environmental Protection Agency Funding for Florida Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Darren Soto,S001200,soto.house.gov,soto,https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KISSIMMEE, FL – Last week, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael S. Regan announced that Florida will receive $275,420,000 from the recently passed Bipartisan Build Back Better Infrastructure Law to protect clean water, upgrade their aging water infrastructure, and address key challenges like lead, excess nutrients in drinking water, and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances contamination. Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) issued the following statement in response to the announcement: ""President Joe Biden and Congress are delivering results from Washington, D.C., to our home state of Florida. Through the funding provided by the Environmental Protection Agency, we will have the opportunity to make desperately needed upgrades to our water infrastructure and deliver results to the vulnerable populations who have been historically underserved in our community. My constituents in Florida's Ninth Congressional District are unfortunately too familiar with the dangers posed by unsafe drinking water. In the City of St. Cloud specifically, we have seen multiple issues over the years stemming from aging infrastructure and lack of maintenance. Additionally, toxic ""forever chemicals"" known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances have been found in our water, air, and soil around Florida, leading to serious health concerns. These conditions are unacceptable and do not live up to the promises made to Americans in the Clean Water Act. Sadly, while 32 Republicans voted ""yes,"" not a single Florida Republican voted for the bill. It is my hope that our state will use these funds to make safe drinking water a reality for every Floridian."" Over the following weeks and months, Florida will receive notice of more funds reaching the state as a result of the Bipartisan Build Back Better Infrastructure Law. To view a more detailed breakdown of EPA funds, please click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=24CE7639-9415-4F74-B291-23D375737188,Webster Slams Procedural Hijinks in Medicare Bill,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, released the following statement slamming the Democrats’ use of procedural hijinks in the House Amendment to S. 610. “I’m appalled that Democrats in Congress are holding seniors and their healthcare providers hostage as leverage to raise the nation’s debt limit and borrow more money for their spending spree. The House finally took up legislation that ensures Medicare benefits are not reduced in 2022. But, in further proof of how broken Washington is, Democrats added two other issues that have nothing to do with Medicare or our seniors! “Included in this bill is language that suspends the requirement for Democrats to identify funding to actually pay for their partisan spending bills. Further, the bill creates an unrelated, unprecedented procedural process to waive the Senate filibuster to increase the debt ceiling. I cannot vote for this because it suspends fiscal responsibility and allows the debt limit to be raised without any details or spending reform. The reckless spending of this Congress and Administration are driving up inflation – making everything in our lives more costly. The only reason these unrelated measures are combined is because they do not have the votes to borrow and spend more money without holding Medicare hostage as leverage. “I am committed to protecting the Medicare benefits that seniors in my district have earned and have introduced H.R. 6144 with my colleagues to do so. I have argued to my Republican and Democrat colleagues that the process for producing policy in Congress is deeply flawed and it has gotten exponentially worse in recent years. As a result, Congress is not passing good public policy. I am frustrated and I’m sure the American people are too. I will continue to advocate for a Member-driven process that tackles key issues early; allows real, thoughtful debate on each other’s policy ideas; ends the practice of waiting until the end of the year to tackle big issues; and stops combining several major policies into one bill.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D438EFAF-6343-4233-AEF8-4B4A6C00BB17,Webster Statement on Defense Bill Vote,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R – Clermont, released the following statement on his vote to pass the House Amendment to S. 1605, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 or FY22 NDAA. “By rejecting President Biden’s cuts to readiness and responsibly investing in our warfighters, training, maintenance, and critical capabilities this bill greatly improves our national defense. Further, it recognizes the threats posed by China and Iran and holds the Administration accountable for their disastrous and embarrassing withdrawal from Afghanistan. “I applaud Republican negotiators for removing poison pills from this legislation, including sections that could result in women being drafted and service members being unjustly deprived of their Second Amendment rights. Our negotiators also removed provisions that would create an Office of Extremism at the Department of Defense and establish policies or require troops to take training courses about so-called extremism. ""The bill also prohibits anything other than an Honorable Discharge for servicemembers who decline a COVID-19 vaccination and requires uniform procedures for vaccine exemptions, including recognizing natural immunity. This policy will retroactively apply to the date of the DoD COVID-19 vaccine order and be in place for at least 2 years.” The FY22 NDAA: Authorizes 2.7% pay increase for servicemembers and extends military recruitment and retention bonuses and special pay. Invests in service-member family housing. Focuses investment on new and emerging weapon systems capable of penetrating denied operating environments such as China. Puts the Navy back on track to building a 355 ship Navy. Includes unprecedented levels of investment in emerging technologies, including AI, quantum computing, hypersonic, and autonomous systems. Prevents Russian and Chinese officials from accessing U.S. missile defense sites. Prevents President Biden’s cuts to the military health program. Fully funds the modernization of our nuclear triad and modernization. Prohibits closing Guantanamo Bay terrorist prison or transferring of terrorists held there. Requires DoD to report to Congress on the costs and time wasted on training on topics like diversity, inclusion, and equity. On Afghanistan, the bill requires a series of immediate reports to Congress, including: Number of Americans left behind in Afghanistan. Personally, identifying information and biometrics of Americans now in the hands of the Taliban. Itemized lists of aircraft, combat vehicles and other U.S. military equipment left behind. Threats posed by Al Qaeda and other terrorists operating in Afghanistan. Strategic impacts of abandoning Bagram Air Base. Taliban relationship with foreign terrorist organizations. Security impacts on the Taliban release of terrorist prisoners. Financial assets and other resources available to the Taliban. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/new-senior-safety-focused-initiative-pasco-and-pinellas-counties,New Senior Safety-Focused Initiative for Pasco and Pinellas Counties,2021-12-06,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Oldsmar, FL,– The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas (AAAPP) will hold a press conference to announce a new initiative that aims to enhance senior safety in Pasco and Pinellas counties with Congressman Gus Bilirakis and a Ring representative in attendance. With AAAPP's support, Ring, whose mission is to make neighborhoods safer, is donating 1,000 Ring Video Doorbells, including free installation and a Ring Protect subscription, to local residents 60 years and older in select cities throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties. The agency is hopeful that the donations will help promote the safety and stability of senior residents in Pasco and Pinellas counties. WHAT: Press conference to announce Ring donation and discuss AAAPP's work to empower seniors living throughout Pasco and Pinellas counties and promote their independence. WHEN: Saturday, December 11 at 11:00 a.m. WHO: Congressman Gus Bilirakis, District 12 Ann Marie Winter, Executive Director of Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas Jaime Hjort, Ring Representative WHERE: TLC Adult Day Care and Recreation Center 3970 Tampa Rd. Unit J Oldsmar, FL 34677 About the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=499,Rep. Donalds' Statement Calling For a Complete Boycott of the 2022 Chinese Winter Olympic Games,2021-12-06,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Byron Donalds,D000032,donalds.house.gov,donalds,https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON –– Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) issued the following statement calling for a complete boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in China. ""As America finds itself at the forefront of several self-imposed domestic hurdles, the world is also taking advantage of our weakness on the international stage. Just four months ago, our nation and the rest of the world witnessed the derelict withdrawal from Afghanistan that left 13 of our service members dead and our integrity on the world stage in chaos. While many Americans continue to focus on the mounting issues at home, be it raising gas prices, the border crisis, skyrocketing inflation, and the resurgence of COVID-related mandates, our adversaries have been on the move––especially the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). ""As we rapidly approach the 2022 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, I think it was the correct call by the president to hold a diplomatic boycott of the games in response to China's human rights abuses and crimes against humanity. While this boycott is the right message to the CCP and the world, it does not go far enough. The Biden-Harris administration must stand even firmer and call for a complete boycott of the games and prohibit all American participation from the Olympic games. ""As we witness increased tensions in Taiwan, Ukraine, and Iran, it is abundantly clear our foes are testing Biden at every turn and capitalizing on his administration's weakness. It is time Biden and his counterparts intensify their message to the world; we will not tolerate China's brutal and inhumane actions against the Uyghurs. ""We must entirely boycott the 2022 Winter Games.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/12/buchanan-leads-letter-over-100-gop-colleagues-opposing-new-cms-vaccine,Buchanan Leads Letter with Over 100 GOP Colleagues Opposing New CMS Vaccine Mandate,2021-12-05,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressmen Vern Buchanan and Larry Bucshon, M.D. (R-IN) today led a letter signed by over 100 of their colleagues opposing the Biden administration’s vaccine mandate for Medicare and Medicaid service providers. In a letter to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, the members urged the administration to abandon the new federal mandate. CMS’s vaccine mandate, issued in November, requires health care workers whose employers participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs be fully vaccinated by January 4. There are approximately 76,000 providers that employ over 17 million health care workers that would be required to comply with the mandate. Many of America’s physicians also operate as small businesses and would be required to comply with these new rules and regulations, the same as large hospitals. Buchanan noted that this could have a disastrous effect on these small businesses and access to care, especially in rural areas where doctors’ offices can be few and far between. Specifically, if small doctors’ offices fail to comply with the mandate, offices may be required to lay off their unvaccinated employees, cover crippling fines from CMS for keeping those employees on the payroll or close their doors completely so as not to deal with the regulatory burden of this mandate. Amid a projected national physician shortage of more than 100,000 by 2034, the members highlight how a federal vaccine mandate will only make matters worse. “Ensuring continuity of quality care should be the primary goal for CMS, especially during this period of stress and uncertainty for patients and providers,” said Buchanan. “This mandate could eviscerate the size and strength of our health care system and lead to unintended consequences for America’s seniors, many of whom rely on Medicare as their only option for health care coverage.” There are 54 million Medicare-aged Americans, many of whom will directly feel the pressure of this mandate due to the inevitable loss of quality health care providers. Seniors could be on the hook for longer wait times for appointments, fewer available providers and adverse health outcomes as a result. “We fully support your agency’s goal of “[e]nsuring patient safety and protection,” but if seniors are unable to access care because their provider no longer participates in the Medicare program, this rule will undermine its stated goal,” said the members in the letter. “By subjecting providers to egregious federal overreach, our nation’s most vulnerable populations will be at risk and America’s seniors will bear the brunt of any provider loss due to non-compliance with this heavy-handed and constitutionally dubious vaccine mandate.” While the implementation of the final CMS rule is on hold until it works its way through the court system, fully abandoning this one-size-fits-all federal mandate will relieve any undue burden on America’s already-struggling health care providers. You can read a full copy of the letter here or below. Dear Administrator Brooks-LaSure: The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a significant toll on the American public both physically and emotionally for almost two years. In that time, though, multiple vaccines have become widely available for those wishing to be vaccinated. According to the Mayo Clinic, nearly 60 percent of the United States population over the age of 12 is fully vaccinated, including over 83 percent of the Medicare-aged population.[1] Thankfully, the United States has seen an overall decrease in new COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations and deaths since vaccines became readily available,[2] and while we are not yet out of the woods, many are saying the end of the pandemic is in sight. Former Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D. recently stated the pandemic “may well be over” by January 4,[3] which is the deadline the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) set for complying with either its vaccination mandate or enforcing the continued use of masks and weekly testing. At a time when we are facing a growing health care workforce shortage – including a projected physician shortage of more than 100,000 by 2034[4] – implementing a federal vaccine mandate will only serve to exacerbate the problem. By your own admission, “[t]hese requirements will apply to approximately 76,000 providers and cover over 17 million health care workers across the country.”[5] It is difficult, if not impossible, to reconcile the rationale for implementing a mandate like this at the tail end of the pandemic while we, as a nation, are struggling to staff hospitals, physician offices and other ancillary providers. We fully support your agency’s goal of “[e]nsuring patient safety and protection,” but if seniors are unable to access care because their provider no longer participates in the Medicare program, this rule will undermine its stated goal. By subjecting providers to egregious federal overreach, our nation’s most vulnerable populations will be at risk and America’s seniors will bear the brunt of any provider loss due to non-compliance with this heavy-handed and constitutionally dubious vaccine mandate. Americans are quitting their jobs at a record pace, and this new federal mandate will only make matters worse and keep more Americans out of the workforce.[6] There are over 54 million Medicare-aged Americans,[7] and it is our duty as Members of Congress representing those seniors to ensure they maintain access to their preferred health care provider. This is especially true when that means opposing an administrative agency’s actions that will lead to fewer options for our constituents; longer wait times; and the inevitability of adverse health outcomes due to fewer available providers. We strongly urge you to abandon implementing this onerous new rule and instead heed current statistics that show seniors are vaccinated at a higher rate than the rest of the population of vaccinated Americans while also uniquely vulnerable to disruptions in the health care system and consider the potentially negative consequences this mandate will have on the size and strength of our health care workforce. To truly ensure patient safety and protection, we must preserve Americans’ access to their preferred providers rather than impose a new one-size-fits-all federal mandate on our nation’s health care providers at a time when they can least afford it. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=498,Rep. Donalds Statement Regarding the Abysmal Jobs Report and American Economy,2021-12-03,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Byron Donalds,D000032,donalds.house.gov,donalds,https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) issued the following statement on the abysmal November jobs report and the overall failing American economy. “Today’s jobs report that missed Wall Street’s expectations by more than 360,000 jobs is another glaring example of the failed policies coming from President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and the Democrats that control the House and Senate. While Democrats continue to look for the root causes of the disastrous economy and continue to blame the ongoing COVID pandemic, all roads lead back to the economic illiteracy of Democrats in power. “American families just faced the most expensive Thanksgiving on record, and now, three weeks away from Christmas, the American people continue to struggle due to Biden’s ineptitude. Gas prices are up nearly 60%, fuel for heating homes has more than doubled, and shelves are running bare due to the ongoing supply chain crisis. “While families in Florida’s 19th Congressional District and across the nation face unimaginable economic difficulties, Democrats are shrugging off these mounting issues and proceeding with their radical agenda. Amid rising gas prices, the Secretary of Energy laughed, and Secretary Buttigieg told Americans to buy an electric vehicle to avoid the rise in prices. Coupled with their offensive and flat-out tone-deaf messaging, Democrats on Capitol Hill continue jamming through Biden’s multi-trill-dollar socialist tax and spending plan. “The state of the American economy is in peril at the hands of the Democrats, who have one goal in mind to systematically transform America and hand over our exceptionalism to the rest of the world. We cannot afford to allow them to succeed in this mission.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-brings-attention-supply-chain-woes,Bilirakis Brings Attention to Supply Chain Woes,2021-12-02,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC: Every American has noticed empty shelves and experienced delivery delays for many products, including: new vehicles, toilet paper, toys, and smartphones. Supermarkets, restaurants, and school cafeterias also report missing shipments. Experts are also predicting that the supply chain crisis will lead to a less than merry Christmas for many American children as toys are expected to be in short supply this season, according to the Toy Association. Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis took to the House Floor to discuss the urgent need to prioritize and address our nation's current supply chain problems which have led to these costly and inconvenient disruptions. ""I refuse to stand by and watch as America's ability to ensure the safe and efficient movement of goods, people, and services throughout our transportation network continues to be diluted,"" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. ""Our priority focus right now should be strengthening our nation's economy and increasing our global competitiveness. The policies of this President and Democrat party leaders in Congress are exacerbating or simply ignoring the underlying supply chain crisis. These policies include the mishandling of the COVID response in ways that are prolonging unemployment and worker shortages across the economy and pushing for a multi-trillion-dollar spending spree that is driving up prices of everything from gas to groceries. These efforts only serve to weaken American competitiveness and shrink our economy."" The supply chain problem is a complex one that boils down to the fact that America relies heavily on the import of goods. About 90% of all goods are shipped across an ocean. China has been implementing partial shutdowns due to new COVID cases and has forced power cutbacks amid an energy shortage. In fact, factories across Asia are shipping fewer goods. To make matters worse, there are not enough workers to process, move, sell, and deliver all the goods coming into U.S. ports across the country fast enough. A national shortage of truck drivers is also making it harder for goods to quickly reach warehouses, which themselves are understaffed. Once goods do arrive in the U.S., there can still be big backups. For example, in LA, a record 70 cargo ships were waiting to get into the LA and Long Beach ports in mid-September. Together, these two ports handle roughly 40% of the nation's imported goods. Moreover, the cost to ship those goods skyrocketed as containers filled up faster than China — where most containers are made could produce them. That is causing additional delays. The current supply chain crisis exposes the country's dependence on imports and how close to its limit its transportation system operates. There is little redundant capacity. Once bottlenecks develop, cargo gridlocks, and remains stranded offshore on ships that overcrowd the coastline, creating additional safety and environmental risks. For example, clustering many container ships waiting to be unloaded increases the risk of large anchors damaging our underwater infrastructure, such as pipelines. This unfortunately was likely the case with the recent Huntington Beach oil spill. Rather than responding to an oil spill, prevention is the best way to avoid environmental damage. This environmental and economic harm could have been avoided in the first place had this Congress and the Biden Administration remained focused on our core transportation network assets, instead of the green and social infrastructure fantasy they have advanced after months of infighting. Despite calls from the private sector for help addressing growing supply chain issues, like expanding capacity, the Biden Administration has only further fueled the crisis by increasing energy costs, triggering significant inflation through reckless unchecked spending, and attacking American businesses. Ironically, it is now the private sector that the Administration is calling on to ""step up"" and fix the supply chain problems.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403742,Rep. Castor Statement on House Passage of Continuing Resolution,2021-12-02,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"“Today, the House of Representatives passed legislation to fund the government following months of Senate Republican obstruction and inaction. CRs are no way to govern, but today’s vote was necessary to avoid a needless government shutdown – caused by Congressional Republicans - that would harm Floridians and our ongoing economic recovery from Covid19 as Americans return to work in higher numbers and we look forward to the holidays. The Congressional GOP’s refusal to negotiate on a routine annual appropriations adversely impacts our armed forces’ ability to effectively and confidently plan for military operations, and throws a wrench into improving American economy. Today, I wrote Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell underscoring the harm that the GOP Senate’s obstruction will wreak on Florida families and the men and women who serve at MacDill Air Force Base and around the globe. “It is time for Senate Republicans to stop playing politics with the lives of our neighbors, increasing costs on families, and complicating the safety of our nation. Congressional Democrats and President Biden stand ready to work with them to make meaningful investments that create jobs, lower costs on consumers, strengthen our schools, protect our air and water and advance environmental justice, and much more.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-honor-our,"Diaz-Balart, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Honor our Nation's Veterans and Fallen Heroes",2021-12-02,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, Representatives Mario Diaz-Balart, Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28), Kay Granger (R-TX-12), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-20), and John Rutherford (R-FL-4) introduced the 13 Folds of Honor Act, a bill that provides a script to be read during official or burial flag-folding ceremonies. A flag-folding presentation honors the service and sacrifice of veterans or deceased servicemembers. The ceremonial folding and presentation of the flag is a moving tribute of lasting importance to a veteran's family. This script emphasizes the meaning of each of the 13 folds that symbolize our nation's unity and immeasurable respect for veterans and their families. “This legislation honors the 13 servicemembers who courageously gave their last full measure of devotion and sacrifice to our country,"" said Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart. ""It also serves as a sobering reminder that for every fallen servicemember, there is a story of a Gold Star Family who stands boldly in their legacy. While there are no words to ease their loss, we hope the 13 Folds of Honor script symbolizes our immense gratitude, respect, and appreciation for their service to our nation. A special thank you to Commander Dr. J.B. Holmes of the Golden Gate VFW Post 7721 for his dedicated service to the veteran community and for bringing this important tribute to light.” This legislation commemorates our 13 fallen servicemembers including my own constituent, Lance Corporal David Lee Espinoza. Mr. Espinoza, a Laredo native Marine, will always be remembered,"" said Congressman Cuellar. ""He embodied the values of America: grit, dedication, service, and valor. May the language shared with the official flag folding ceremony continue to reflect the symbol of respect, honor and freedom that our brave servicemembers and their families do every day.” “Our brave service members devote their lives to defending the flag and the sacred institution she represents,"" said Congresswoman Granger. ""The 13 Folds of Honor is a fitting tribute to our fallen heroes and commemorates a life dedicated to freedom and liberty.” ""As a veteran of the Afghanistan War, I saw firsthand how the 13 Folds of Honor ceremony has become an integral part of paying tribute and respect to those who have served and sacrificed for America,” said Congressman Panetta. “This bipartisan legislation would codify those words by providing the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs with official language for ceremonial flag foldings. Those few words that would be said during the 13 folds of our nation’s flag during such ceremonies are much deserved for the many deeds of the men and women who served us.” “We owe a debt of gratitude to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms,” said Congressman Rutherford. “This bill will codify the meaningful tribute said while folding a burial or ceremonial flag in memory of the fallen."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-lawson-introduce-keep-children-and-families-safe-lead-hazards-act,"Rutherford, Lawson Introduce the Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act",2021-12-02,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,John H. Rutherford,R000609,rutherford.house.gov,rutherford,https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C – Today, U.S. Representatives John Rutherford (FL-04) and Al Lawson (FL-05) introduced the Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act. This legislation requires that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) assess annually the risks of lead-based hazards on housing properties receiving federal rental assistance. It also directs HUD to develop an action plan that outlines necessary changes for properties at risk for lead exposure hazards. ""It is inexcusable that some living in public housing have experienced dangerous levels of lead exposure, threatening their health and safety,"" said Rutherford. ""I am proud to join a bipartisan coalition working to hold HUD accountable for any lead-based hazards in their facilities. Thank you to Rep. Lawson for leading this important effort."" ""Every family deserves to live in a home that is free of danger, yet far too many households are detrimentally impacted by lead poisoning,"" said Lawson. ""Our residents should not have to worry about the risk of lead exposure and the harmful impact this hazardous toxin can cause. The Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act will raise the standard of federally-assisted housing by enforcing accountability and improving the living conditions for our most vulnerable citizens. I am pleased to work with Rep. Rutherford on this critical legislation to protect the safety and health of North Florida's children and families."" Many properties in Florida and nationwide were built before the 1978 ban on lead paint in residential buildings. According to the CDC, 3.6 million American families are at risk of lead-based paint contamination in their homes, including 340,000 children living in Section 8 housing. The Keep Children and Families Safe From Lead Hazards Act improves conditions and protects the health and well-being of millions of Americans living in Section 8 properties. The risk assessment portion of this legislation will identify properties with the greatest risk of exposing children under age six to lead-based hazards. The action plan will include remediation steps and safeguards that address the lead-based hazards, and priority for executing these plans will be given to properties with children under the age of six years old. The legislation also directs HUD to submit a report to Congress regarding the at-risk properties and the number of children impacted by lead-based hazards, which will be included as a graded factor in uniform physical condition inspections. In doing so, hazards will be regularly tracked and owners of properties will be held accountable for methods of reformation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-takes-stand-life,Bilirakis Takes A Stand for Life,2021-12-01,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC: Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis spoke on the House Floor about the need to defend life. His speech was delivered on the same day the United States Supreme Court heard opening arguments in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. This Supreme Court case, which reflects the most significant legal challenge on the issue of abortion since Roe vs. Wade, has the ability to set new precedent with regard to individual states' abilities to protect unborn children. It will also better establish the rights states have to legislate on the matter of abortion. In the years following Roe vs. Wade, more than 60 million unborn children have lost their lives to abortion. During that time, medical advances have also made remarkable strides and offer new insight into the stages of human development. ""As this landmark case progresses, I am mindful that modern science confirms that every unborn child is a human life,"" said Congressman Bilirakis. ""As early as 5 weeks, unborn babies have a heartbeat, and the brain and spinal cord are developing. By week 10, babies have arms and legs, fingers, and toes. They can kick and jump if startled. At week 15, babies have fully developed hearts that pump 26 quarts of blood per day. They can taste and make facial expressions. We know at this stage, they yawn, hiccup, swallow, and suck their thumbs. During this time period, painful procedures trigger a hormonal stress response. And, due to advances in technology, an unborn child is now viable outside the womb at 22 weeks or earlier. Federal abortion laws are stuck in the past. Now that we have the benefit of scientific knowledge on the stages of human development, our laws must reflect these realities and be realigned to protect the unborn!"" At the center of this legal battle is a Mississippi law passed in 2018 which limits abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy. There are statutory exceptions to save the life and preserve the physical health of the mother, or in cases of severe fetal abnormality. The law was passed by overwhelming majorities in the state legislature and signed by then-Governor Phil Bryant. In a direct challenge to Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, the Supreme Court announced in May 2021 it would review the Mississippi law and will specifically consider the question of whether or not all pre-viability bans on abortion are unconstitutional. It is important to note that the United States is one of only four countries that allows abortion-on-demand throughout all nine months of pregnancy. In fact, more than 75% of countries throughout the world do not permit elective abortion past the 12th week of gestation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3374,Rep. Frankel Statement on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Arguments at U.S. Supreme Court,2021-12-01,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement as the Supreme Court began hearing oral arguments for Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, a case that will provide a major test for whether the U.S. Supreme Court will continue to uphold 50 years of precedent defending the constitutional right to abortion. “Everyone deserves the freedom to make personal decisions about their bodies without politicians trying to control them” said Rep. Frankel. “The Mississippi case before the Supreme Court today poses the most direct threat to Roe v. Wade in decades and jeopardizes access to abortion across the country. The personal decision of whether and when to become a parent should be in the hands of people, not politicians. And, regardless of the Court’s action, this is a clarion call for the Senate to follow the House’s lead and pass the Women’s Health Protection Act.” The State of Mississippi explicitly, and repeatedly, asked the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade and rule there is no right to abortion in the United States in its opening brief. If upheld, this law would enable states across the country to ban abortion care, even though the Supreme Court ruled in favor of upholding Roe as recently as 2020 in June Medical Services v Russo. A final decision is not expected until at least the spring of 2022. In September, the House passed the Women’s Health Protection Act to push back on dangerous state laws such as this one. This bill would prohibit states from enacting medically unnecessary restrictions that unfairly target abortion providers and prevent patients from getting the care they need.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-office-to-host-mobile-office-hours-in-sarasota-county/,Steube Office to Host Mobile Office Hours in Sarasota County,2021-12-01,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Steube Office to Host Mobile Office Hours in Sarasota County NORTH PORT, FLA. – The office of U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) is hosting mobile office hours tomorrow, Thursday, December 2, 2021, from 11am-1pm in North Port, Fla. “My office can be a resource to you if you have any issues with federal agencies like the VA or the IRS,” Steube said. “While we cannot guarantee you a favorable outcome, we will do our best to help you receive a timely response to your problem.” Mobile Office Hours Location: City of North Port, Conference Room 302, 4790 City Hall Blvd North Port, FL 34286. Residents of the 17th Congressional District of Florida can contact Steube’s office for assistance in dealing with Federal agencies. In order to get assistance, individuals will need to fill out a Privacy Act Release Form. The letter must be signed by the person directly affected. If you cannot attend, please visit here for information on how to get help with a federal agency.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403739,U.S. Rep. Castor announces her 2021 nominations to U.S. military academies,2021-11-30,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) announced 26 students representing more than ten local high schools received nominations for admission into our nation’s military academies: Air Force (USAFA), Navy (USNA), Army (USMA) and Merchant Marine (USMMA). “I am proud to nominate a diverse, impressive group of students from the Tampa Bay area to attend our nation’s prestigious service academies,” said Castor. “These dedicated students are the leaders of tomorrow, and I’m grateful for their commitment to serving our nation. “My dedicated Nomination Committee puts in careful thought and time every year to thoroughly review each application and meet with each interested student individually, and I appreciate their important contribution,” Castor continued. “Tampa Bay is a patriotic community, and our committee members are devoted to developing bright young leaders that will shape the future of America’s armed forces and our nation.” Photos of the nominees can be found here. Receiving a nomination to one of our nation’s military academies is an essential step towards receiving an appointment to the academies. Nominations are earned based upon each student’s interview with Castor’s Nomination Committee, their academic record, participation in extracurricular activities and demonstrated leadership qualities. Because of the stringent application requirements, many students begin working on what it takes to apply as early as their first year of high school. Based upon the process established by federal law, all U.S. military academies, except the Coast Guard Academy, require either a service-connected or Congressional nomination (from their member of Congress, U.S. Senator or the Vice President of the United States). Parents and students interested in the nomination process can work with their school guidance counselors and find more information at https://castor.house.gov/constituentservices/serviceacademynominations.htm. Castor will announce official appointments at a later date after being notified of appointments by the academies. Today’s announcement is the conclusion of Castor’s 2021 competitive nomination process. The nominees who receive an appointment from a U.S. military academy will attend their respective academies in the 2022-2023 school year. U.S. Rep. Castor granted her nomination to the following students for one or more of the U.S. military academies: Scott Larguier, Berkeley Prep – USMA Amani Haskins, Robinson High School – USMA Archie Dennis, The Lays School, Cambridge, UK – USMA Ryan Maney, Plant High School – USMA John Overton, King High School – USMA Gabriel Slater, Carrollwood Day School – USMA + USAFA Maxwell Fuller, Robinson High School – USMA Madison Lawrence, Plant High School – USNA + USMA Gabrielle Hernandez, Middleton High School (Georgia Military College) – USMA Jacob Ellis, Hillsborough High School – USAFA Madeline Frank, Robinson High School – USNA Adrianna Cook, Ramstein High School – USNA + USAFA Lauren McCain, Wharton High School – USNA Conrad DuFault, Steinbrenner High School – USNA Sara Arroyave, Robinson High School – USAFA David Switzer, Freedom High School – USNA + USAFA Pate Griffey, Cambridge Christian School – USNA Alexis Baez, Leto High School – USNA Richard Gonzalez, Steinbrenner High School – USNA Jamison Ringvelski, homeschooled – USMMA Katherine Dingwall, Robinson High School – USAFA Solei Montalvo, Gaither High School – USAFA Michael Watson, Cocoa Beach High School – USMMA Dante Des Rosier, Berkeley Prep – USAFA Joseph Pleinis, Plant High School – USAFA Camilla Quintero, Steinbrenner High School – USAFA",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403740,"Reps. Castor, Schrier Legislation to Prevent HPV Cancers Passes House",2021-11-30,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representatives Kathy Castor (FL14) and Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA08) celebrated House passage of the Promoting Resources to Expand Vaccination, Education and New Treatments for HPV Cancers Act (PREVENT HPV Cancers Act). The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes six types of cancers, which leads to nearly 36,000 cases of cancer each year in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The World Health Organization established a goal last year of total eradication of cervical cancer due to the highly effective HPV vaccine and commitment by countries around the world. HPV vaccinations help prevent cancers and save lives, yet many families remain unaware of the important cancer-preventing vaccine. The aim of the PREVENT HPV Cancers Act is to increase vaccination rates with an eye to populations that lag far behind in vaccination rates. Rep. Castor’s speech on the House Floor can be viewed here. “If Dr. Francis Collins, the head of the NIH, called a press conference today and announced that we had found a cure for cancer, there would be cause for celebration. Well, since 2006, there's been a safe and effective vaccine that prevents six types of cancer, including cervical cancer and throat cancer. It's been a remarkable development, and with today’s passage of the PREVENT HPV Cancers Act, we will equip communities across the country will the tools they need to vaccinate, educate and empower our neighbors to receive these lifesaving vaccinations. According to data from the CDC, more than one million doses of HPV vaccinations were missed last year. This falling off is worrisome, but we can tackle this problem by helping educate families and parents all across America to avoid these catastrophic diagnoses and save lives in doing it. “The PREVENT HPV Cancers Act builds on work the CDC is already doing to raise awareness about gynecologic cancers through Johanna's Law, and includes HPV and HPV-related cancers in a national public awareness campaign to educate providers, parents, and the general public about the life saving HPV vaccine. This is especially important in rural areas where there's also been a very dramatic drop off. I want to thank my friends back home at the Moffitt Cancer Center, including, Dr. Anna Giuliano, for educating me and for bringing together advocates across the country, and Rep. Schrier, a pediatrician, for her support for this legislation. I’m confident we can increase health equity and positive outcomes through public education and research, and I’m now calling on my Senate colleagues to take up and pass this critical legislation,” said Rep. Castor. “As a parent and pediatrician, I want to keep my child and my patients safe and healthy. The HPV vaccine prevents cancer! My son has gotten his HPV vaccine, as have my patients; and I know that the most important factor in whether a parent chooses to immunize their child is a conversation with their healthcare provider. There is so much mistrust and vaccine hesitancy out there, and while immunizations are one of the greatest public health tools we have, they work best when there is widespread use. That’s why I’m excited that this bill passed the House and is hopefully on its way to getting signed into law. It will help spread awareness so more people get vaccinated, and also fund research to prevent death from HPV related cancers. I am proud to support Rep. Castor in this effort,” said Rep. Kim Schrier, M.D. “Moffitt Cancer Center celebrates this important step toward passage of the PREVENT HPV Cancers Act. The science has been clear for years – we have the tools to eliminate HPV related cancers globally, starting with cervical cancer. Rep Castor has had a long standing collaboration with us at the Moffitt Cancer Center in promoting interventions to prevent HPV cancers. We applaud Rep Castor for her leadership on PREVENT HPV Cancers Act, which could save tens of thousands lives among U.S. men and women per year,” said Anna Giuliano, PhD, Professor and Director, Center for Immunization and Infection Research in Cancer (CIIRC) at the Moffitt Cancer Center, American Cancer Society Clinical Research Professor. “The passing of the PREVENT HPV Cancers Act is great for HPV-related cancers that have gone so long without a major spotlight for awareness and prevention. This is especially beneficial in closing the health disparities gap and ensuring that patients have resources, access to care, and ultimately ending cancer diagnoses,” said Tamika Felder, founder of Cervivor, Inc. and a cervical cancer survivor. H.R. 1550, the PREVENT HPV Cancers Act will: Create a CDC-run national public awareness campaign to increase HPV vaccination rates (especially among males and communities most impacted by HPV cancers) and increase Americans understanding of HPV-associated cancers",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=206,Congressman Dunn Fights for Medicare Patients,2021-11-30,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Neal P. Dunn,D000628,dunn.house.gov,dunn,https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (Florida-02) released the following statement ahead of the fiscal deadline for 2022. ""Patients in my district could lose their doctors unless Congress takes immediate action. Beginning January 1st, 2022, medical providers will endure a 10% cut in their Medicare reimbursement payments. This is bad news for my constituents and the rest of America, especially our seniors. If you have Medicare today, will you have a doctor tomorrow? Many providers may be forced to close their doors or stop accepting Medicare entirely, thus limiting access to care when patients need it most. That’s my focus heading into 2022. I will vote NO on any legislation that extends government funding beyond December 31st without protecting my constituents’ relationships with their doctors.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-honors-area-student-who-invented-potentially-life-saving-app,Buchanan Honors Area Student Who Invented Potentially Life-saving App,2021-11-29,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"SARASOTA, Fla — Congressman Vern Buchanan on Monday recognized Jace Billingsley as the winner of the 2021 Congressional District App Challenge. Billingsley designed a software application to help health care workers administer the American Heart Association’s recommended interventions used to resuscitate patients experiencing cardiac or respiratory failure, also known as a “code blue.” Buchanan hailed the ingenuity of Billingsley, saying “I can’t commend him enough for inventing such an important and potentially life-saving tool. I’m proud to name Jace this year’s winner of the 16th Congressional District App Challenge, part of a national competition to encourage interest in science, technology, engineering and math.” Jace Billingsley is 13-years-old and a 7th grade student at Buffalo Creek Middle School in Palmetto, Fla. “STEM education gives students the tools they need to succeed and help the U.S. compete in an increasingly global 21st century economy,” Buchanan continued. “Children are 25 percent of the population, but 100 percent of the future, and the future is in good hands with students like Jacob.” The winning entry, “The Code Blue App” is made for hospital staff and other health care workers to help accurately time the various and simultaneous physical, electrical and chemical interventions used to resuscitate a patient when they experience cardiac or respiratory failure. The American Heart Association regularly updates the sequence and timing of these actions, which are built into The Code Blue App to assist the health care worker save lives during a code blue emergency. The app also records the necessary data needed for the patient’s medical records and downloads the file to a computer. The app will be featured on CongressionalAppChallenge.us and will also be eligible to have photos of its interface displayed in the U.S. Capitol. “I enjoy working with practical applications and I cannot think of anything more practical than an app that could be used by hospitals to help save someone’s life,” said Billingsley. “My dad works in healthcare and participates in code blues regularly. The Code Blue App can help healthcare workers in the event of a code blue, where timing is most critical."" The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts overall employment in the economy to grow by 7.7 percent between 2020 and 2030, while jobs in STEM fields are expected to grow by 10.5 percent. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, college-educated STEM job holders earn between 29 percent and 39 percent more per hour than non-STEM employees with equivalent educational attainment. The Congressional App Challenge was created by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015 and allows students to compete against their peers across the country by creating an app for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, raspberry Pi or other devices. The challenge is designed to promote innovation and engagement in computer science.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=279,Franklin Calls on Biden Administration to Keep FARC on Designated Terrorist List,2021-11-26,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement in response to a report that the Biden Administration plans to remove the FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) from the list of designated foreign terrorist organizations: Once again, the Biden Administration is signaling weakness to our enemies and allies through its plan to remove the FARC as a designated terrorist group. The FARC are a ruthless terrorist group responsible for the deaths of countless innocent people. For decades it has used extortion, kidnapping, murder, terrorism, and drug trafficking to threaten regional security. The FARC has allied itself with the worst actors in our hemisphere, including the Maduro regime in Venezuela, and has proven to be an international menace. Thousands of Colombian Americans living in Florida know all too well the terrible crimes this group has committed. It is on their behalf that I call on the Biden Administration to cease its plans to remove the FARC from the list of designated foreign terrorist organizations. Related News Franklin Supports Passage of 2023 National Defense Authorization Act March 29, 2023 | Posted in Press Releases Franklin and Colleagues Demand Answers from Pentagon Regarding Senior Official’s Racially Divisive Statements January 11, 2023 | Posted in Press Releases Franklin Applauds House Passage of Critical Defense Bill July 20, 2022 | Posted in Press Releases Franklin Secures Key Provisions in 2023 House Defense Spending Bill June 24, 2022 | Posted in Press Releases Franklin, Bacon, Lamb, and Carbajal Introduce Bill to Establish the Technology Competitiveness Council June 22, 2022 | Posted in Press Releases",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-and-members-florida-congressional-delegation-urge-cms-protect,Bilirakis and Members of the Florida Congressional Delegation Urge CMS to Protect Patient Access to Advanced Cancer Treatment,2021-11-23,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Gus Bilirakis and a bipartisan/bicameral group of Florida Congressional members wrote a letter to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure urging the agency to exclude low-volume modalities such as proton beam therapy (PBT) from the Radiation Oncology (RO) Model, which is set to begin January 2022 and threatens to cut up to 50 percent in Medicare reimbursements to providers of this high-quality radiation treatment. Florida-based PBT centers are some of the most advanced in the nation, treating more than 14,000 cancer patients including thousands of pediatric patients to date. Joining Bilirakis were Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), U.S. Representatives Kat Cammack (R-FL), John Rutherford (R-FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Gregory Steube (R-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), and Al Lawson (D-FL). ""It [proton beam therapy] is a more effective, precise, and safer alternative to conventional radiation therapies widely available today,"" the lawmakers wrote. ""While traditional radiation therapies often harm healthy tissues and organs, PBT limits radiation exposure, thus reducing side effects, and lowering the risk of secondary cancers. Florida's pediatrics population particularly benefits from PBT as it reduces the risk of developmental, hormonal, muscular, and skeletal deficiencies, including hearing loss. Florida is proud to call the nation's leading PBT center home, which opened in 2006 and treats patients of all ages, including more than 2,000 children. Furthermore, PBT centers across the state are effectively treating patients who are diagnosed with localized tumors such as brain, breast, head and neck, eye, gastrointestinal, lung, prostate, esophageal, and other cancers. While this RO Model would only impact Medicare beneficiaries, the reimbursement cuts threaten to disrupt care for all PBT patients as these centers treat a significant amount of Medicare patients. The cut to Medicare for cancer modalities continues to negatively impact the most vulnerable in our country, creating further health inequities."" The full text of the letter is below. Dear Administrator Brooks-LaSure: We write with regard to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed Radiation Oncology Model (RO Model) that threatens to cut funding to radiation therapy services that thousands of Floridians rely on to fight cancer. While we appreciate CMS' efforts to develop an Alternative Payment Model (APM) with the goal of improving cancer care and reducing provider burden, we are concerned that the proposed rule will disproportionally impact innovative cancer therapies, especially Proton Beam Therapy (PBT). Under the RO Model, PBT faces a possible base payment reduction of up to 50 percent compared to other modalities that will see a significantly less reduction. To date, more than 14,000 cancer patients have benefited from PBT provided at Florida-based centers. It is a more effective, precise, and safer alternative to conventional radiation therapies widely available today. While traditional radiation therapies often harm healthy tissues and organs, PBT limits radiation exposure, thus reducing side effects, and lowering the risk of secondary cancers. Florida's pediatrics population particularly benefits from PBT as it reduces the risk of developmental, hormonal, muscular, and skeletal deficiencies, including hearing loss. Florida is proud to call the nation's leading PBT center home, which opened in 2006 and treats patients of all ages, including more than 2,000 children. Furthermore, PBT centers across the state are effectively treating patients who are diagnosed with localized tumors such as brain, breast, head and neck, eye, gastrointestinal, lung, prostate, esophageal, and other cancers. While this RO Model would only impact Medicare beneficiaries, the reimbursement cuts threaten to disrupt care for all PBT patients as these centers treat a significant amount of Medicare patients. The cut to Medicare for cancer modalities continues to negatively impact the most vulnerable in our country, creating further health inequities. Last year, Congress recognized the importance of protecting innovative RO modalities by delaying the implementation of the RO Model until January 1, 2022. With this deadline fast approaching, we urge CMS to exclude low-volume modalities such as PBT from the RO Model as it did for brachytherapy in the latest final rule. We note that CMS reviewed hospital outpatient episodes of care, of which PBT only made up less than one percent.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B0488CFA-54E3-4ACE-8589-6D0A9A8F1E80,Webster Joins Colleagues to Defend Rights of Healthcare Providers,2021-11-22,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) joined Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) and 98 colleagues to introduce the Conscience Protection Act, which would strengthen the rights of healthcare providers to object to medical procedures, namely abortion, that they hold serious moral or religious objections to. “Life is our most precious gift and an unalienable right promised to every American in our Declaration of Independence. Sadly, my Democratic colleagues and the current administration are now pushing policies and abandoning bipartisan provisions that protect the right to life,“ said Congressman Webster. “I have fought to defend the rights of the unborn and to protect the religious liberties of thousands of healthcare professionals opposed to abortion. I will not waver in this fight.“ Currently, enforcement of existing federal conscience statutes relies on action from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and recent moves by the Biden Administration have made clear that they have little interest in protecting employees from discrimination should they morally or religiously object to participating in certain medical procedures. The Conscience Protection Act would, among other provisions, provide a private right of action for employees to defend their conscience rights in court by suing their employer if punished or terminated for registering moral or religious objections. For the full bill text, click here. An identical version was introduced by Senator Lankford (R-OK) in February 2021. What others are saying about the bill: “It is hard to imagine a more blatant civil rights violation that being forced to abandon your beliefs and take part in ending an innocent human life. HHS found that the University of Vermont Medical Center forced a nurse, against her known religious beliefs, to do just that. This is not only fundamentally wrong, but a direct violation of federal law. Yet the Department of Justice voluntarily dismissed the case against UVMC,” said William E. Lori, Archbishop of Baltimore and Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Pro-Life Activities. “We have said before that the need for the Conscience Protection Act cannot be questioned. The need is more vital now than ever. The Department of Justice is clearly signaling that conscience rights violations in health care can be violated with impunity. We call on Congress to stand up for the basic dignity of our nation’s health care workers and pass the Conscience Protection Act so that doctors and nurses can defend their own rights in court.” “We are proud to stand with Congressman Harris – a staunch defender of unborn life and pro-life Americans – as he reintroduces the Conscience Protection Act,” said the Honorable Marilyn Musgrave, Vice President of Government Affairs for Susan B. Anthony List. “We’re thankful that the bill has been fortified and now includes pharmacists in its definition of ‘health care providers.’ This is a welcome, necessary response to the Biden administration’s reckless attempts to turn every post office and pharmacy into an abortion center by forcing dangerous chemical abortion drugs on innocent women who need help and care – not a prescription for a toxic abortion cocktail. This bill rightfully empowers medical professionals to protect life, not destroy it.” “Conscience rights for medical professionals are under threat like never before under the Biden administration,” said Connor Semelsberger, Director of Federal Affairs for Life and Human Dignity at Family Research Council. “No health care practitioner, no matter who is president, should be forced to perform abortions or sterilization procedures against their conscience. Thank you to Representative Harris for introducing legislation to ensure medical professionals are protected regardless of who is in charge of enforcing conscience laws.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-and-members-florida-delegation-demand-answers,Bilirakis and Members of the Florida Delegation Demand Answers,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Gus Bilirakis and a group of his Florida Congressional Delegation Colleagues sent a letter to U.S Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland requesting a full accounting of the administration's actions followingreportsthat more than 70 flights carrying illegal immigrants have secretly landed in Jacksonville, FL over the past six months. ""Floridians deserve answers about who is being brought into our state and what safeguards are in place to ensure our communities remain safe,"" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. Specifically, the lawmakers demanded to know ""who is being transported, their immigration status, whether they have been tested for COVID-19 or have shown proof of vaccination, final destinations and any applicable security reviews performed. Information should also include when the transportation first took place, the number of migrants transported to date, as well as future planned or estimated travel, whether state, county or local government entities were alerted prior to arrival and any federal resources provided to assist with the migrants, and any follow-up actions, including whether a notice to appear was issued.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-takes-strong-stance-against-socialism-votes-against-leftist-tax-and,Bilirakis Takes a Strong Stance Against Socialism - Votes Against Leftist Tax and Spending Spree,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"November 19, 2021 Washington, DC: Earlier today, Speaker Pelosi pushed through a more than 2,100-page tax and spending bill that contains wasteful spending that will fuel already record-high inflation. The bill also contains many far-left socialist policies that Americans have already rejected. Contrary to claims made by President Biden about this bill costing the American tax payers nothing, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office indicates that this bill will add at least $367 billion to the deficit over the next ten years. ""My constituents and countless small businesses in my district are already suffering due to the reckless behavior of this Administration and Congressional Democrats. They are grappling with government intrusion into all aspects of their lives, spending more on everything due to skyrocketing inflation, and seeing unnecessary delays due to the national supply chain shortage,"" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. ""The items funded in this bill do not reflect the priorities and values of my constituents. This package also does not offer the solutions American families need to the real challenges they are facing. In fact, many of its provisions will only make their situations worse, which is why I voted no!"" In a bill plagued with irresponsible spending and radical policies, Congressman Bilirakis has identified the Top 16 most objectionable portions of the spending bill below. Includes new incentives for illegal immigration: Illegal immigrants would be eligible for federal student aid (page 78) and the enhanced child tax credit (page 1647) Drives up costs on Americans' utility bills: Includes a tax on natural gas, up to $1,500 per ton, that could cost the American economy an estimated $9.1 billion and eliminate 90,000 American jobs (page 361). This will have a negative impact on all Americans who consume electricity, not just those making over $400,000 annually as the White House claims. Additionally, 9% of people making between $0 and $50,000 will see a tax increase under this bill, while 22% of those who make between $50,000-$100,000 will see their taxes increase. Tax benefits for the top 1%: Increases the cap on state and local tax deductibility, meaning many of the wealthiest Americans would pay less in taxes. (page 1729) Since 90% of Americans don't itemize their taxes, the increased SALT deductions won't benefit them. It is estimated however, that 2/3 millionaires in the U.S. will see a significant tax reduction due to this provision. Makes it easier for the IRS to target taxpayers: Creates an $80 billion slush fund to hire an 87,000-IRS-agent army that would be used to carry out the Biden administration's plan to review every account with more than $10,000 worth of transactions in a year (This applies to all Americans who spend at least $30 per day on average). The plan includes hiring 5,000 new armed criminal agents (page 1923). Also makes it easier for the IRS to issue penalties against taxpayers by removing the IRS supervisor approval requirement for each audit (page 1934). Increases out of pocket costs for those who rely on prescription drugs: The bill will repeal the Trump-era Rebate Rule which passes through drug rebates directly to consumers at the point of sale (page 2114). Pushes Green New Deal in our universities: Democrats include a $10 billion ""environmental justice"" higher education credit program to indoctrinate college students and advance Green New Deal policies (page 1571). It also includes kickbacks for the Left's green energy special interest network with $3 billion for ""environmental and climate justice block grants"" (page 373) and tens of billions more for green energy special interest subsidies, loans and other carve outs. Perpetuates labor shortage: Continues welfare benefits without work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents at a time where there are 10.4 million job openings—more openings than there are people looking for work. Billions for ""Tree Equity"": Includes a $2.5 billion slush fund, sending tax dollars to radical environmental groups to plant trees and advance ""tree equity."" (page 18) Gives wealthy Americans tax credits: Includes hundreds of billions of dollars in ""green energy"" tax credits for those who can afford expensive electric vehicles and other ""green"" innovative products (page 1434). For example, a tax credit worth up to $900 will be offered when someone purchases an electric bicycle. The credit wouldn't start to phase out until a family makes at least $150,000 a year. (page 1527) Pushes Democrats' wasteful and confusing school lunch agenda: Allocates $250 million for, among other things, ""procuring…culturally appropriate foods"" (page 275) Innovation-killing Socialist Price Controls: Institutes a government price-setting of prescription drugs which has shown to be likely to lead to significantly decreased private investment in new cures. (page 1977) Subjects small business to reckless tax penalties: Subjects small businesses with over $600 in transactions to backup tax withholding requirements if they fail to comply with IRS regulations (page 1932). Hammers small businesses that file as individual tax earners with Obamacare's 3.8% tax on net investment income(page 1883). Money for Gun Control: Spends $2.5 billion for ""Community-based Violence Intervention initiatives"" which could be used to deny the individual exercise of the 2nd Amendment without due process. (page 876). Includes legislative hull for Biden's vaccine mandate: Increases OSHA penalties on businesses that fail to implement the vaccine mandate up to $700,000 per violation (page 105) and includes nearly a billion dollars in funding for the Department of Labor to increase enforcement of these penalties (page 103). Increases energy dependence on OPEC, Russia and China: The bill includes mineral and energy withdrawals on federal lands (page 912) and overturns provisions included in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that authorized energy production in the Arctic. Allows taxpayer money to fund elective abortions and subsidizes healthcare plans that cover them by removing the Hyde Amendment. This bill is so toxic for the American people that Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy spent over 8 hours slamming how this 2,000+ page monstrosity is bad for our nation, bad for American families, and bad for our future. Congressman Bilirakis will keep fighting against enactment of this harmful legislation by working with his Senate colleagues.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammack-issues-statement-hell-no-vote-against-hr-5376-build,"Congresswoman Kat Cammack Issues Statement On ""Hell No"" Vote Against H.R. 5376, The ""Build Back Better Act""",2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Kat Cammack issued the following statement about her ""hell no"" vote against H.R. 5376, the ""Build Back Better Act:"" ""Since this bill's inception, and throughout its many changes, iterations, versions, and revisions, I've maintained that this bill is a heaping pile of garbage,"" said Rep. Cammack. ""It's an American dream killer, sells future generations down the river, and utterly changes the moral fabric of our nation for the worse. From the very beginning, we've known that this bill would cost the American people trillions of dollars, yet even without a CBO score, congressional Democrats wanted to forge ahead with a vote on this disastrous piece of legislation, ignoring the dangerous implications it will have on already-soaring inflation and our economy. ""To say I'm disappointed is an understatement. This bill is full of radical, liberal wish list priorities, including amnesty for millions of illegal immigrants, 87,000 new IRS agents to target the working-class Americans, higher taxes for the American middle class, regulations that will crush American businesses, and the list goes on. ""One thing I can say with extreme certainty: the House's passage of this dumpster fire of a bill just solidified an overwhelming Republican majority in 2022. Now we sit back and wait for the record number of retirements by House Democrats; they know they won't survive this, but they voted for it anyway. Shame on them."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3373,Rep. Frankel Statement on House Passage of Build Back Better Act,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21), released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the Build Back Better Act. “Today is a historic and exciting day for families across America,” said Rep. Frankel. “Now that this transformational bill has passed the House, we are one step closer to delivering on the President’s promise to Build Back Better. This bill is a once-in-a-generation investment in the care economy, universal pre-K education, paid leave, clean energy, and lower health care costs, all being fully paid for by making sure big corporations & the wealthiest pay their fair share of taxes. I urge the Senate to take up and pass this bill immediately.” The Build Back Better Act will: Lower health care costs by allowing Medicare to negotiate lower drug costs for seniors, halting Big Pharma’s outrageous price hikes above inflation, and expanding the Affordable Care Act to make coverage more affordable for those who buy insurance on their own; Lower child care & family care costs by expanding the basic promise of free schooling in America for the first time in 100 years with universal pre-school for all 3- and 4-year-olds, cutting families’ child care costs, extending the landmark Biden Child Tax Credit, and expanding access to affordable home care for older adults and those with disabilities; Secure the largest investment to combat climate crisis in history by cutting pollution, reducing energy costs, creating good paying jobs with a transformational investment to ensure America leads the clean energy economy, and; Fight inflation, as it is fully paid for by making sure that big corporations and the wealthiest pay their fair share, and ensuring no one making under $400,000 will pay a penny more in taxes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=377,Franklin Votes Against President Biden's Disastrous Spending Plan,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15) issued the following statement after voting against H.R. 5376, the so-called Build Back Better Act: This morning, I voted against irresponsible government spending and in favor of putting our country back on the path to economic prosperity. President Biden’s $1.75 trillion spending plan will further escalate inflation, add to our national debt, and expand government control over our daily lives. Democrats claim this bill will help address our economic woes, but all they’ve managed to do is ram through the largest taxing and spending bill in United States history.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases/soto-votes-pass-historic-build-back-better-act,Soto Votes to Pass Historic Build Back Better Act,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Darren Soto,S001200,soto.house.gov,soto,https://soto.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) voted to pass H.R. 5376, the Build Back Better Act. This historic investment in America's future lowers prescription drug prices and caps costs for seniors, extends the Child Tax Credit, creates paid family leave, expands the ACA exchange to nearly one million Floridians, closing the Medicaid gap, boosts affordable housing, includes immigration reform, and works to combat climate change, among other things. During a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives last night, Congressman Soto gave the following remarks: ""HEADLINE: Democrats deliver for the American people… again. Democrats deliver for Central Florida… again. Lowering prescription drug prices and capping costs for seniors, extending Child Tax Credit payments, paid family leave, and lower childcare costs for Central Florida families. Providing nearly one million Floridians with an expansion of the ACA, boosting affordable housing, immigration reform, the largest effort to combat climate change in history. And unlike the GOP tax scam that busted the deficit by $400 billion and $4 trillion in debt, we pay for ours with major corporations and the wealthy paying their fair share. The Republicans are doing nothing but divide, the Democrats are delivering for America. I yield back."" Click here for a video of his remarks.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-legislation-to-waive-burdensome-fees-for-veterans-introduced-in-the-senate/,Steube Legislation to Waive Burdensome Fees for Veterans Introduced in the Senate,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Steube Legislation to Waive Burdensome Fees for Veterans Introduced in the Senate WASHINGTON, D.C.— The Senate companion bill to U.S. Representative Greg Steube’s (R-Fla.) legislation, the Free Veterans from Fees Act, was introduced by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). “Our veterans have made countless sacrifices to protect our freedoms, and the least we can do is ensure that they are not subjected to burdensome fees when visiting memorials built in their honor,” Steube said. “I am honored that Senator Rubio is championing this effort in the Senate to free our veterans from these unnecessary fees and make their lives a little easier.” The Free Veterans from Fees Act passed the House of Representatives earlier this Congress with bipartisan support. This legislation waives special-use permit fees for veterans’ demonstrations and special events at war memorials administered by the National Park Service in the District of Columbia. “This legislation is simple: veterans should not have to pay fees to hold special events at memorials that are meant to honor them,” Rubio said. “Veterans sacrificed so much to serve our country, and waiving these administrative fees is the least we can do to thank them for their service.” Veterans’ groups and Gold Star Families visit national war memorials arranged through various veterans’ organizations throughout the year. To obtain a permit for their visit, these veterans’ groups must often pay burdensome administrative fees and other processing costs related to visiting memorials. The Free Veterans from Fees Act passed the Natural Resources Committee with unanimous consent and passed the U.S. House of Representatives during both the 115th and the 116th Congress. This legislation received bipartisan support and was endorsed by American Veterans (AMVETS), a veteran organization that represents 250,000 members nationwide. The full text of the legislation can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2763,Wasserman Schultz Joins Democrats to Pass Historic Build Back Better Legislation,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Debbie Wasserman Schultz,W000797,wassermanschultz.house.gov,wassermanschultz,https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) proudly joined her Democratic colleagues in passing the Build Back Better Act (H.R. 5376), historic legislation that will transform the American economy and put the United States on the path towards shared future prosperity. This once-in-a-generation legislation will make immediate and sizable positive impacts on the lives of Florida’s seniors, families and businesses. Listen to the Congresswoman’s floor remarks on this historic legislation: (click on the image above to watch the video) The key BBB provisions that will make life dramatically better for Florida’s families include: • Negotiating lower drug costs for seniors by curbing Big Pharma’s obscene price hikes, and ensure Americans with diabetes don’t pay more than $35 per month for insulin; • Create a new, out-of-pocket cap of $2,000 on what seniors pay for Medicare Part D drugs; • Expand coverage and lower premiums in the ACA Marketplace, and help cover those in the states like Florida that refused to adopt the Medicaid expansion; • Help older Americans access affordable hearing care by expanding Medicare. • Expand free schooling in America with universal pre-school for all 3- and 4-year olds; • Slash child care costs so families pay no more than half what their current spending levels are, and ensure the vast majority pay no more than 7 percent of their income on child care; • Extend the landmark Biden Child Tax Credit, and deliver real financial help to millions of working families every month to pay for the groceries, gas and utilities that parents face; • Expand access to affordable home care for older adults and those with disabilities; • Steers billions in funding into green energy and resiliency programs, including clean vehicle and carbon-reduction efforts, as well as improvements to the energy grid. • Other funding priorities include clean-pipe water programs, broadband expansion and The costs of this legislation are offset by making corporations and the wealthy finally pay their fair share. The BBB legislation will now go to the U.S. Senate. ####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-bilirakis-frankel-wilson-deutch-mcgovern-introduce-legislation-award-101,"Reps. Bilirakis, Frankel, Wilson, Deutch & McGovern Introduce Legislation to Award 101-Year-Old Nuremberg Prosecutor the Congressional Gold Medal",2021-11-18,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL012), Lois Frankel (D-FL-21), Joe Wilson (R-SC-02), Ted Deutch (D-FL-22), and Jim McGovern (D-MA-02) introduced a bipartisan bill to award Benjamin Ferencz—the last living Nuremberg prosecutor— with a Congressional Gold Medal on the anniversary of the Nuremberg Trials. During WWII, Ferencz served in the U.S. Army and helped collect evidence of Nazi war crimes. After the war, he was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant of Infantry and was awarded five medals for his service. Over the course of his life, Ferencz has been a tireless advocate for the rule of law and international justice. This remarkable centenarian embodies the best of what the United States—and the American people—offer to the world. ""The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. Certainly Ben Ferencz, who has spent more than 50 years prosecuting war crimes and genocide, qualifies for this prestigious honor. He has spent his entire, distinguished career pursuing justice for victims of horrific, unthinkable crimes against humanity. And he has succeeded, over and over again. In one instance, he secured justice for 20 Nazi Schutzstaffel (SS) officers responsible for killing more than one million people in towns and villages across Eastern Europe. These officers never would have been brought to justice if it weren't for his efforts. Throughout history, humanity has encountered many faces of evil. Our brightest moments as an international community have been those in which we present a united front in our efforts to identify and eradicate its presence. Mr. Ferencz has been at the helm leading that important work, and I am humbled to honor him,"" said Rep. Bilirakis. ""From his military service during World War II, to his role as chief prosecutor in a trial that brought 22 Nazi officials to justice, Ben Ferencz has led a remarkable life dedicated to the pursuit of justice,"" said Rep. Frankel. ""He is a treasure to the Palm Beach County and hero to our global Jewish community, and it is an honor to be introducing a bill to award him the Congressional Gold Medal."" ""Ben Ferencz is a true champion of human rights. Beginning with his time as an investigator in World War II and chief U.S. Army prosecutor during the Nuremberg Trials, through his long, outstanding career as an advocate of the international rule of law. Mr. Ferencz deserves our respect and appreciation. The Congressional Gold Medal would be a fitting honor and I'm grateful to co-lead this bill. Thank you for all you have done in the name of global justice,"" said Rep. Joe Wilson.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403736,Rep. Castor Statement on House Passage of the Historic Build Back Better Act,2021-11-18,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"“We made a promise to our neighbors that we would Build Back Better in the wake of the Covid19 pandemic. The past two years have underscored the urgent, tangible needs of Florida families and small business owners – access to quality, affordable health care and child care, good-paying jobs, clean air to breathe and clean water to drink, and affordable housing. Today’s passage of the Build Back Better Act is a historic step towards bolstering our economy and making our government work for all Americans once more. The benefits will be felt across the Tampa Bay area. “This means providing universal, high-quality pre-kindergarten to three- and four-year-olds, expanding affordable health care and lowering costs to millions of Floridians, lowering the costs of prescription drugs, improving Medicare, making the single largest and most comprehensive investment in affordable housing in history, extending the tax cut for most families with children, and much more. While making monumental progress for families and working Americans, the Build Back Better Act lowers costs and fights inflation because it is fully paid for by making big corporations and the wealthiest pay their fair share. No one making under $400,000 will pay a penny more in taxes. “We are aiming to help parents get back to work and bring the United States in line with other nations through paid family and medical leave. No one should have to grapple with the impossible questions that American men and women have been asking for years. Do I quit my job to care for an ailing loved one? Will I have to leave my job to care for my newborn child? Through our plan, all workers will be eligible for up to four weeks of paid leave for new parents, workers dealing with their own serious medical conditions, and workers who need leave to care for a loved one with a serious medical issue. This commonsense provision is long overdue and will help ensure we can keep American workers on the job with comprehensive paid leave policies. “This plan invests in our veterans through the VA, which will allow us to restore veterans’ faith by literally rebuilding the outdated physical infrastructure of the VA system, investing in VA’s workforce, and providing much-needed updates to the support structures that serve our proud veteran community in Tampa. “The Affordable Care Act remains popular in Florida, and as we begin another open enrollment period, Congress is making meaningful strides towards getting even more uninsured Floridians covered and lowering the cost of care for Americans of all ages. “After two years that have shown us the importance of health care and popularity of the Affordable Care Act in Florida, we lower costs and improve coverage for our neighbors in life-saving ways. In Florida, Republicans at the state level have refused to expand Medicaid, costing the state billions of dollars while leaving almost 1 million of our neighbors without affordable health care coverage. The Build Back Better Act will reduce health inequalities by expanding Medicaid in states like Florida where governors have refused to act, lower health care costs by investing in programs that reduce health care premiums and deductibles for all Americans, and permanently extend the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which will ensure that low-income children will always have access to quality, affordable health insurance. “New comprehensive hearing benefits for Medicare beneficiaries including coverage of hearing aids will put more money in the pocketbooks of many Florida seniors and improve their overall health. We also invest $150 billion to expand access to quality home-based services and care for millions of older adults and people with disabilities, strengthening our nation’s care infrastructure and workforce. “In a response to the concerns across the political spectrum, this bill will also finally allow for the Secretary of Health and Human Services to negotiate for lower prescription drug prices and stop Big Pharma from ripping off American families and seniors. This bill also enacts a new, out-of-pocket cap in Medicare on prescription drug costs at $2,000, adding important financial protection for Medicare beneficiaries. For years, I have heard from my neighbors about the high cost of insulin. Good news – Build Back Better lowers insulin prices so that Americans with diabetes don’t pay more than $35 per month for their insulin. This is a long-overdue, all-American proposition that makes sure everyone can afford the cost of their prescription drugs and have access to the care they need. “Important for Floridians, our economy and our way of life, I have fought to ensure that a provision permanently banning oil drilling off of Florida’s coast was included in this bill. Florida’s beautiful beaches and our economy are tied to clean water and clean air, and this ban is an incredible victory for our state and environment. “Paired with the bipartisan infrastructure package passed by Congress and signed into law by President Biden on Monday, we are enacting the most significant clean energy, infrastructure and resilience package in the history of America. By cutting greenhouse gas pollution by well over one gigaton in 2030, we will reduce consumer energy costs, give our kids cleaner air and water, create hundreds of thousands of high-quality jobs, and advance environmental justice by investing in a 21st century clean energy economy. “I am especially inspired to see large investments in children and families through high quality universal Pre-K (UPK) and child care. UPK will give children a strong start and put them on a path to succeed in school and in life. More affordable child care will help women return to the workforce at a critical time as well. “We Build Back Better by ensuring a level playing field that provides opportunity for ALL of our neighbors – this historic legislation does just that. I urge my Senate colleagues to pass this bill quickly – our nation and neighbors can’t wait.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=337,Franklin Stands with Cuban People Seeking Liberty,2021-11-18,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Representative Scott Franklin (FL-15) issued the following statement to express solidarity with the Cuban people in their fight for freedom: “Once again, Cuba’s Communist regime showed the world that it will do whatever it takes to silence dissent and suppress the rights of the Cuban people. This summer, thousands of brave Cubans took to the streets to protest more than 60 years of human rights abuses by the Castro regime. After a brutal crackdown, these brave souls again attempted to take to the streets on November 15th to demand their freedom. Sadly, the regime decided to stop these efforts ahead of time by pre-emptively targeting leaders and organizers of the protest movement. As freedom-loving Americans, we cannot stand idly by as the Communist regime continues to deprive our Cuban friends of their God-given liberties. In response to the regime’s actions, I co-sponsored the FORCE act, which prevents the Castro dictatorship from being removed from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list until they meet certain conditions regarding human rights. I join my Florida colleague Rep. Maria Elvira-Salazar in calling for the Biden Administration to work with technology companies to provide internet access to Cubans so that they can tell the world about their struggle for freedom. I stand in solidarity with the Cuban people who are bravely fighting against tyranny and oppression. The time for freedom and democracy is now.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/five-bilirakis-bills-move-forward,Five Bilirakis Bills Move Forward,2021-11-17,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. Earlier today, five Bilirakis-authored bills were reported favorably out of the Energy and Commerce Committee. These bills now head to the House Floor for final passage. ""With so much dysfunction taking place in Washington lately, it is refreshing to see commonsense bipartisan solutions moving forward,"" said Congressman Bilirakis. ""These bills will make a positive impact on the lives of millions of Americans and I urge my colleagues to join me in pushing them across the finish line."" The Integrity, Notification, and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces for Consumers (INFORM Consumers) Act by Bilirakis and Schakowsky combats the online sale of stolen, counterfeit, and dangerous consumer products by directing online platforms that allow for third-party sellers of consumer products to verify the identity of high-volume third-party sellers, which will prevent organized retail crime. The bill will also ensure that consumers can verify basic identification and contact information for high-volume third-party sellers of consumer products on online marketplaces. ""This pro-consumer legislation enacts uniform, nationwide rules to promote safety, increase transparency, and provide greater accountability for online sales. It will provide a layer of enhanced protections for consumers from stolen and counterfeit goods without adding undue burdens on small mom-and-pop businesses,"" said Congressman Bilirakis. ""This bill is a win-win for consumers and legitimate businesses in the online marketplace."" The second Bilirakis bill to pass out of committee today is the Restoring Brand USA Act. Brand USA—which is funded by international visitors and private contributions—has generated $56 billion to our economy since 2013 and has historically supported more than 45,000 jobs each year. However, the partnership has lost significant funding as a result of the drop in international visitors due to pandemic travel restrictions. The Restoring Brand USA Act will help Brand USA promote the U.S. to international visitors by directing the Treasury Department to allow this program to access critical resources, funded by foreign traveler visa fees, for the next few years. ""The travel and tourism industry was one of the hardest hit sectors during the pandemic. As we seek to restore our way of life and fully recover, we cannot overlook the work that must be done to renew this powerful engine of economic growth for communities across the nation. Brand USA has proven itself as a successful catalyst for spurring tourism to the United States. We need that catalyst now more than ever to help rebuild the industry and spur job growth. Common sense solutions like this will help boost the economy and help get us moving in the right direction. The advancement of this initiative is quite timely, given the new Department of State guidelines for travelers from the European Union and UK. We look forward to welcoming these tourists back to our country, and to the job creation it will bring,"" Bilirakis said. The Data Mapping to Save Moms' Lives Act will use data mapping to identify areas of the country where poor maternal health rates overlap with a lack of broadband access in order to deploy telehealth services most effectively. The United States is one of the only countries in the developed world with a rising maternal mortality rate. Around 700 women die each year in pregnancy related deaths—though 3 in 5 of those deaths are preventable. The problem is especially prevalent in rural communities and amongst women of color who continue to experience disproportionately high rates of maternal and infant mortality. ""We need to use every tool at our disposal to improve health outcomes for moms and babies. Including this information into our broadband mapping will help us achieve this goal and ensure these moms get the prenatal care they deserve,"" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. The fourth Bilirakis bill that passed today involves the issue of spectrum, the highly sought-after radio frequencies that make wireless communications possible, which has revolutionized the world's way of communicating. Congressman Gus Bilirakis has been working to bring federal laws up to speed with the technological advances of the 21st century for the past six years. Currently, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) hold shared jurisdiction over the management of spectrum policies. However, these agencies have not created a system to coordinate usage of spectrum policies since their 2003 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Finding solutions to create a consistent and efficient use of spectrum that helps to foster innovation is key to promoting America's economic growth, universal service goals, and technological leadership. In recognition of this fact, Congressman Bilirakis introduced the Spectrum Coordination Act that would require the NTIA and FCC to revisit and update their 18 year-old policies. Since the Congressman originally filed this legislation last year, the agencies have begun to improve coordination, but this bill will formalize the process and ensure its completion. ""Consumers benefit when government entities work together to modernize processes and improve efficiency. The agreement governing cooperation between NTIA and the FCC has remained unchanged for 18 years. In the world of technology, that is an eternity and spectrum usage, management, and sharing have grown and evolved,"" said Congressman Bilirakis. ""I want to solidify what has been learned under the original MOU and build upon it to benefit all federal agencies, licensees, and consumers. We have the opportunity to improve effectiveness of government systems and encourage innovation as we continue to work with stakeholders and experts in the field."" The Oral Health Literacy and Awareness Act is another legislative victory for Bilirakis today. This bill directs the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to develop an oral health literacy strategy to reach underserved communities. This bipartisan bill aims to curb the rise in oral disease and related illnesses by providing prevention education through a five-year oral health literacy campaign. ""Oral health is a vital component of overall wellness that is too often overlooked. As with many aspects of healthcare, prevention is key to long-term health. Lack of good oral hygiene has been proven to exacerbate chronic health conditions and contributes to costly, yet preventable, emergency care,"" said Congressman Bilirakis. ""I am proud to be a part of this initiative to raise awareness about the proactive steps that can be taken to improve oral healthcare as I believe it will improve patient outcomes.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammack-issues-statement-vote-censure-rep-paul-gosar-az-04,Congresswoman Kat Cammack Issues Statement On Vote To Censure Rep. Paul Gosar (AZ-04),2021-11-17,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack issued the following statement on the resolution to censure Rep. Paul Gosar (AZ-04): ""I have and will always condemn violence and have reiterated repeatedly that it has no place in our country and our society. The vote to censure Rep. Gosar defies procedural precedent when Democrats decided to circumvent the complaint process by taking the vote directly to the Floor instead of through the House Ethics Committee,"" said Cammack. ""The Democrats made the decision to pursue removing a duly-elected member of the opposite party from serving on his House committees, which furthers the damaging the precedent they established earlier this Congress. ""Right now, we have got to be focused on the issues directly facing our country, including rising prices, extreme inflation, the border crisis, and more."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3368,Rep. Frankel Votes to Pass 13 Bipartisan Bills to Support Veterans,2021-11-17,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, DC – This week, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after the House passed 13 bipartisan bills that will support veterans. “Service members returning to civilian life should have an opportunity for success,” said Rep. Frankel. “The bills passed this week will expand access for veterans, and their families, to quality education and health care.” As a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Rep. Frankel helped advance many of these bills out of committee before voting for them on the floor. A full list is available here and includes Rep. Frankel’s priorities such as: H.R. 5671, which authorizes the VA to provide seasonal influenza vaccines to all veterans who want one, even if they don’t ordinarily receive care through the VA. H.R. 2433, the Burn Pit Registry Enhancement Act, which strengthens and enhances the VA registry of service members and veterans who were exposed to toxic chemicals and fumes from open-air burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan. H.R. 958, the Protecting Moms Who Served Act, which strengthens the VA’s maternity care programs to ensure veterans receive high-quality maternal health care and support. H.R. 4626, the VA AIM Act, which assesses VA health care services, operations, budget, and delivery to uphold the highest standards for the veterans who rely on them. H.R. 5603, the Protections for Student Veterans Act, which ensures that veterans in every state can continue their education without penalty if they are called to serve. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3369,Rep. Frankel Statement on Dangerous DeSantis Bills Advancing in Florida State Legislature,2021-11-17,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement in response to the steps taken by the Florida State Legislature to advance Governor DeSantis’ dangerous proposals to limit the use of masks and vaccines during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “By ignoring CDC guidance from public health experts and reputable scientists, Governor DeSantis is putting politics over the health and safety of Floridians,” said Rep. Frankel. Earlier this month, Rep. Frankel was joined by colleagues representing Florida, Texas, Georgia, and Arizona to introduce the LOCAL HEALTH Act, to give local governments, agencies, and businesses the freedom to follow CDC guidance—including requiring vaccines or mask mandates—in order to keep workers, students, and the broader community healthy and safe, and combat these dangerous political tactics by Governors like DeSantis. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=06E9A093-6148-4713-98FC-EB2C5F8118D5,Webster and Colleagues Introduce Resolution to Nullify Biden's Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandate,2021-11-17,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) joined Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) and 160 colleagues to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to formally disapprove of and nullify President Joe Biden's unconstitutional vaccine mandate imposed on America's job creators and workers. The Biden Administration recently released details on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Emergency Temporary Standard mandating vaccination requirements for employees at private businesses with more than 100 employees. The rule will affect more than 80 million Americans and impose $14,000 fines for persons who do not comply. ""I am opposed to vaccine mandates; healthcare decisions should be between an individual and their health care provider - not the result of demands by Washington politicians,"" Congressman Webster said. ""President Biden's dystopian vaccine mandate defies science and goes far beyond the role of the federal government by strong-arming employers and threatening the right of millions of Americans to earn a living. I will continue to work with my colleagues to defend the freedoms of the American people."" ""The broad support that our Congressional Review Act resolution has garnered sends a clear message to President Biden: The American people are fed up with the mandates and government control,"" Congressman Keller said. ""Our nation faces a host of crises created by this administration, including supply chain challenges and skyrocketing costs for everyday goods and services. President Biden's illegal vaccine mandate is crippling for Main Street job creators and workers. We will continue to do everything we can to oppose this authoritarian rule."" Full bill text can be found here. Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) also introduced a companion bill in the Senate, garnering support of all 50 Republican Senators. Additional House co-sponsors include: Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23), Whip Steve Scalise (LA-01), Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (NY-21), and Representatives Scott Perry (PA-10), Bob Latta (OH-05), Jackie Walorski (IN-02), August Pfluger (TX-11), Chip Roy (TX-21), Dan Meuser (PA-09), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Jeff Duncan (SC-03), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Mike Gallagher(WI-08), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Jason Smith(MO-08), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Tom McClintock (CA-04), Mike Bost (IL-12), Garret Graves (LA-06), David Rouzer (NC-07), Jay Obernolte (CA-08), Mike Garcia (CA-25), John Rutherford (FL-04), Kat Cammack (FL-03), Rick Crawford (AR-01), Mike Johnson (LA-04), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Tom Tiffany (WI-07), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), French Hill (AR-02), Barry Moore (AL-02), Lauren Boebert (CO-03), Pete Sessions (TX-17), Kevin Hern (OK-01), Michael Guest (MS-03), Troy Balderson (OH-12), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Greg Steube (FL-17), Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), Mike Simpson (ID-02), Steve Womack (AR-03), Tom Emmer (MN-06), Alex Mooney (WV-02), Blake Moore (UT-01), Trey Hollingsworth (IN-09), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Tom Cole (OK-04), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Frank Lucas (OK-03), Jake LaTurner (KS-02), Greg Pence (IN-06), Ted Budd (NC-13), Bill Huizenga (MI-02), Vicky Hartzler (MO-04), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Roger Williams (TX-25), Bruce Westerman (AR-04), Gary Palmer (AL-06), Steve Chabot (OH-1), David McKinley (WV-01), Tracey Mann (KS-01), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Dan Bishop (NC-09), John Joyce (PA-13), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Darrell Issa (CA-50), Earl ""Buddy"" Carter (GA-01), Yvette Herrell (NM-02), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Mike Burgess (TX-26), Matt Rosendale (MT-AL), Sam Graves (MO-06), Brian Babin (TX-36), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Mark Amodei (NV-02), Jim Hagedorn (MN-01), John Moolenaar (MI-04), Claudia Tenney (NY-22), Brian Mast (FL-18), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Jody Hice (GA-10), Patrick McHenry (NC-10), Ben Cline (VA-06), Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Dusty Johnson (SD-AL), Chris Jacobs (NY-27), Vern Buchanan (FL-16), Lee Zeldin (NY-01), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Scott Franklin (FL-15), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Virginia Foxx (NC-05), Joe Wilson (SC-02), GT Thompson (PA-15), Tim Walberg (MI-07), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Rick Allen (GA-12), Jim Banks (IN-03), James Comer (KY-01), Russ Fulcher (ID-01), Greg Murphy (NC-03), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-02), Burgess Owens (UT-04), Bob Good (VA-05), Lisa McClain (MI-10), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Mary Miller (IL-15), Victoria Spartz (IN-05), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Madison Cawthorn (NC-11), Michelle Steel (CA-48), Julia Letlow (LA-05), Neal Dunn (FL-02), Ron Estes (KS-04), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Drew Ferguson (GA-03), Don Bacon (NE-02), Jerry Carl (AL-01), William Timmons (SC-04), Bryan Steil (WI-01), Matt Gaetz (FL-01), Kelly Armstrong (ND-AL), Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03), Larry Buschon (IN-08), Andy Barr (KY-06), Van Taylor (TX-03), Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Mo Brooks (AL-05), Anthony Gonzalez (OH-16), Chris Smith (NJ-04), Andy Harris (MD-01), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Debbie Lesko (AZ-08), Thomas Massie (KY-04), Richard Hudson (NC-08), Ashley Hinson (IA-01), John Rose (TN-06), Devin Nunes (CA-22), Peter Meijer (MI-03), Bill Posey (FL-08), Mike Rogers (AL-03), Nancy Mace (SC-01), Rob Wittman (VA-01), Mike Turner (OH-10), Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Kay Granger (TX-12), Adam Kinzinger (IL-16), David Kustoff (TN-08), Andrew Clyde (GA-09), Randy Weber (TX-14), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), Liz Cheney (WY-AL), Jim Baird (IN-04), Kevin Brady (TX-08), David Schweikert (AZ-06), Carol Miller (WV-03), and Jeff Fortenberry (NE-01). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-bill-improve-maternal-health-care-veterans-headed-president,Bilirakis Bill to Improve Maternal Health Care for Veterans Headed to the President,2021-11-16,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Representatives Gus Bilirakis (FL-R) and Lauren Underwood(IL-D)'s bipartisan legislation to improve maternal health care for Veterans passed the House today, after already clearing the Senate last month with bipartisan support. The Senate version of the legislation is led by Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME). The Protecting Moms Who Served Act seeks to eliminate maternal mortality, morbidity, and disparities among Veterans. ""These critical investments in the maternal healthcare all female Veterans receive will help save lives and lead to healthier outcomes for moms and babies,"" said Representative Bilirakis. ""Our nation's heroes deserve the best possible care, and our legislation gets us one step closer to achieving that goal.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-condemns-biden-border-crisis-urges-immediate-action,"Bilirakis Condemns Biden Border Crisis, Urges Immediate Action",2021-11-16,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC: Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis took to the House Floor to condemn the Biden Border Crisis and to urge his colleagues to abandon the radical policies that are fueling the historic onslaught of illegal border crossings. Since President Biden took office, there have been over 1.4 million illegal border crossings. These record-high apprehensions keep increasing, with no end in sight. The Biden Administration has not responded to requests for detailed information about how it plans to stop the newest expected surge with a caravan of migrants currently headed through Mexico to the U.S. southern border. ""The problem is actually much worse than these already staggering numbers suggest,"" warned Congressman Bilirakis. ""When I spoke with Border Patrol Agents during my recent visit to the southern border, they confirmed that they are only able to apprehend a fraction of the people, drugs, and weapons illegally entering the country as they are simply overwhelmed by the dramatic increases. These brave public servants noted the extreme difficulties associated with trying to keep our country secure without a physical barrier along portions of the border. Out of the 1.4 million people who have been apprehended while trying to illegally gain access to the country, more than 283,000 have been released into the United States. Approximately 95,000 illegal immigrants were released with a ""Notice to Report."" Based upon previous patterns of behavior, it is reasonable to assume that many of these individuals will fail to comply with their order to report back later and will simply disappear within the country. This represents a significant security risk. Instead of addressing what has become a humanitarian, health and national security problem, the Biden Administration and Congressional Democrats keep announcing plans that will only exacerbate the problem, Bilirakis cautioned. For example, the Administration has discussed paying illegal immigrants settlement payments of up to $450,000. These individuals broke the law by entering the country. If they are compensated for doing so, it will encourage even more people to break the law. ""I am also extremely concerned that while it does not contain one dollar to add additional Border Security Agents, the proposed tax and spending bill currently being pushed through the House contains includes amnesty for up to 10 million illegal immigrants and $100 billion in tax-payer funded benefits for them,"" Bilirakis added.""These irresponsible proposals and dangerous open border policies will continue to fuel the crisis and encourage more illegal activity at the border. We must secure our borders and ensure that the rule of law applies to everyone.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-gus-bilirakis-receives-national-award,Congressman Gus Bilirakis Receives National Award,2021-11-16,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. —Congressman Gus Bilirakis has accepted The Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) American PATRIOT Award for standing up against harmful policies currently being advanced in Washington, D.C. and for consistently promoting the American values of faith, family, and freedom. AMAC CEO Rebecca Weber, surrounded by AMAC staff and supporters, welcomed Members of Congress to the awards event and personally presented Congressman Bilirakis with a custom AMAC American PATRIOT Award. During the award ceremony, AMAC Action President Bob Carlstrom pointed out the increasingly radical policies of current Congressional leadership. He then said: ""Congressman Gus Bilirakis has consistently defended the free enterprise system and the American values of faith, family, and freedom while pushing back against government overreach. As this administration doubles down on legislation that will dramatically expand that welfare state and hike taxes on the middle class, Congressman Gus Bilirakis continues to lock arms with AMAC and our 2.3 million members nationwide against these destructive ideas."" ""I am honored to receive the American Patriot Award from AMAC,"" said Congressman Bilirakis. ""AMAC is an advocacy organization committed to protecting American values, freedoms, equality of opportunity, sanctity of life, and the rule of law. AMAC has proven itself to be a strong champion for American seniors and I will continue to stand alongside its members as we fight to protect and preserve our way of life for future generations.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403735,Rep. Castor Announces $18M Infrastructure Grant for Tampa Heights,2021-11-16,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) announced a major new infrastructure investment in the heart of Tampa. The Florida Department of Transportation received an $18M FY21 Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability & Equity (RAISE) grant from the Biden Administration for the Tampa Heights Mobility Corridor. This funding will assist the City of Tampa in its “complete streets” initiative, while leading to more jobs and boosting local businesses. “This $18M grant is important for the growing, dynamic neighborhoods of Tampa Heights and Seminole Heights. We are connecting Tampa neighborhoods, decreasing vehicle traffic and improving safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. I championed this grant, with Mayor Castor, to lift our neighborhoods, increase equity, create jobs, build mobility, and provide needed revitalization to our streets. We are united in our commitment to Build Back Better for our neighbors, for our environment, and for future generations,” said U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor. “This is huge news for Tampa and our ability to better connect historic neighborhoods just north of downtown and to improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. We’re so grateful to Rep. Kathy Castor for championing the federal funding, which will tangibly improve residents’ quality of life,” said Mayor Jane Castor. The Tampa Heights Mobility Corridor aims to make multimodal safety improvements focusing on creating a community asset that will connect downtown Tampa to the Tampa Heights and Seminole Heights neighborhoods and businesses. This includes widening sidewalks, creating two-way bicycle paths, making a dedicated rapid bus lane between USF and downtown, and more. The RAISE grant was previously known as the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant and the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Discretionary grant. Last year, Rep. Castor announced over $50 million in BUILD grants for the City of Tampa and Hillsborough County. The Tampa Heights Mobility grant is separate and apart from the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal passed by Rep. Castor and signed by President Biden yesterday, but it is a hopeful sign of more to come for the Tampa Bay area.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=882E9D18-82F6-422D-BEFF-73AE9DF4A9C6,AMAC Presents Webster with American PATRIOT Award,2021-11-16,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – The Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC) recently presented the American PATRIOT Award to Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, for standing up against harmful policies currently being advanced in Washington, D.C. and consistently promoting the American values of faith, family, and freedom. ""Congressman Dan Webster has consistently defended the free enterprise system and the American values of faith, family, and freedom while pushing back against government overreach,"" said AMAC Action President Bob Carlstrom. ""As this administration doubles down on legislation that will dramatically expand that welfare state and hike taxes on the middle class, Congressman Dan Webster continues to lock arms with AMAC and our 2.3 million members nationwide against these destructive ideas."" ""I serve the oldest district, per-capita, in the nation and many AMAC members call my district home,"" said Rep. Webster. ""As a senior myself, I know what many of my constituents face on a day-to-day basis as they see costs of basic goods rising, American values being disrespected, and our freedoms being challenged. I will keep fighting for our seniors and to restore fiscal responsibility, while pushing forward policies that empower families and small businesses and uphold American values and ideals. AMAC is a strong voice for safeguarding seniors and I am honored to receive this award."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-responds-report-confirming-biden-administrations-overreach,Bilirakis Responds to Report Confirming Biden Administration’s Overreach,2021-11-15,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC: Earlier today, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) confirmed that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) does not have legal authority to permanently extend enhanced Medicaid funding in Puerto Rico, as the Biden Administration has recently asserted. In its legal opinion, the GAO notes ""HHS's FY 2022 allotment of $2,943,000,000 for Puerto Rico was not authorized,"" and ""the plain meaning of the language of the statute is clear."" In response to this opinion, Congressman Gus Bilirakis, who has spearheaded bipartisan legislation on this important topic, released the statement below. ""We have an obligation to ensure a continued safety net for our most vulnerable patient populations while putting safeguards in place to strengthen accountability for the wise use of taxpayer dollars. We must also incentivize best practices in the Medicaid program. Prior to the Biden Administration incorrectly asserting that it did not need specific statutory authority to extend enhanced funding, Congressman Soto and I worked together in good faith to craft language that achieved these goals. Our bill ensured continued funding access to healthcare for America's seniors, children, and those with disabilities in Puerto Rico and U.S. territories while strengthening accountability and program integrity to prevent fraud and abuse. Now that an independent entity has corroborated that the Biden Administration overstepped its authority, Democrats in Congress need to insist that we use the proper legislative procedure. We must advance our bipartisan agreement to avoid further confusion and uncertainty,"" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-announces-2021-congressional-fire-and-rescueems-award-winners,Buchanan Announces 2021 Congressional Fire and Rescue/EMS Award Winners,2021-11-15,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"BRADENTON, Fla. – Congressman Vern Buchanan today announced the winners of the 16th Congressional District Fire and Rescue and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Awards. Buchanan established the awards to give special recognition to fire and rescue and EMS personnel who have provided distinguished service to his constituents back in 2010. “As first responders, fire departments and emergency medical service teams are summoned on short notice to serve their communities,” said Buchanan. “Oftentimes, they arrive at scenes of great adversity and trauma, to which they reliably bring strength and composure. These brave men and women spend hundreds of hours in training so that they are prepared when they get `the call.’ I believe these awards are a fitting tribute to our first responders and a reminder of the important role they play in our communities.” This year’s award recipients were selected by an independent committee comprised of a cross section of current and retired fire and rescue personnel living in the district. Buchanan presented awards to the following outstanding fire and rescue and EMS personnel: Dedication and Professionalism Award: Hillsborough County Fire and Rescue Lieutenant Kimberlee Rogers and Deputy Chief Jason Dougherty Manatee Search Nicholas Reis Manatee County EMS Social Worker Sonia Shuhart Career Service Award: Parrish Fire District Division Chief Michael Williamson Preservation of Life Award Hillsborough County Fire and Rescue Captain John Shirah and Driver Engineer Peter Dziubinski Sarasota County Fire Department Lieutenant Randy Allen and Fire Medics Miriam Troyer, Andrew Moler and Michael Alberti Associate Service Award: Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant Terri Adams; Corporals William Barnes and Carlos Brito; Deputies Keaton Bruce and Andrew Fleming; and Civilians Trexley and Bradley Cleophat Unit Citation: Hillsborough County Fire and Rescue Chief Morris Lopez; Captains Derek Butler, Michael Bugg, Erik Sawyer, and Brian Visnovec; Acting Captains Charles Bridges and Adam Brown; Firefighters Travis Poirier and Edward Kofler; Fire Medics Colin Tracey, Gilad Maimoni, Brandon Gadberry, Adam Schwer, Violet Anderson, Juanita Benjamin, Brian Johnson, and Ryan VanBuskirk; Lieutenants Joseph Blackwelder and Joshua Veeck; Driver Engineers Ralph Mascaro, Derek Wendt, Ayron Burden, Jerome Mancillas, Jeffrey Hartzner, Patrick Geiger; and Acting Driver Engineers Marc Dieth, Joshua Thompson, and Ryan Fritz; and Manatee Search and Rescue Deputy Chief John Elwood and K9 Karma, and Captain Michael Dvorak and K9 Max",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3365,Rep. Frankel Celebrates Signing of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,2021-11-15,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement after attending President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act signing ceremony at the White House. “The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is a historic win for Florida and for all Americans,” said Rep. Frankel. “I was honored to be in attendance as President Joe Biden signed this legislation into law to create millions of good paying jobs, modernize our bridges, roads, and public transportation systems, and make historic investments in broadband, electric vehicles, green infrastructure and clean drinking water. I look forward to working to pass the rest of the Biden Administration’s Build Back Better Agenda soon.” The bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework: Makes the largest federal investment in public transit ever; Makes the largest federal investment in passenger rail since the creation of Amtrak; Makes the single largest dedicated bridge investment since the construction of the interstate highway system; Makes the largest investment in clean drinking water and waste water infrastructure in American history, delivering clean water to millions of families; Makes high-speed internet accessible to all Americans; Makes the largest investment in clean energy transmission and electric vehicle infrastructure in history; electrifying thousands of school and transit buses across the country; and creating a new Grid Deployment Authority to build a resilient, clean, 21st century electric grid; Includes at least $19 billion for Florida. Click here to see all the ways the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework will impact the nation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3366,Rep. Frankel Announces Next Round of Payments for Families with Children,2021-11-15,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (FL-21) released the following statement as the next payments of the Child Tax Credit hit the bank accounts of families across America. “The Child Tax Credit payments have been life-changing for parents across Palm Beach County and for millions of other parents around the country,” said Rep. Frankel. “In Florida alone, more than two million payments were sent last month, putting money directly in the pockets of working families to help pay for food, child care, school supplies, and more. This is a middle-class tax cut and every eligible parent in Palm Beach County should make sure they are getting these critical payments.” The American Rescue Plan increased the maximum Child Tax Credit for eligible families to $3,600 annually per child ages 0-5, and $3,000 annually per child ages 6-17. This expanded credit is being delivered in monthly installments of up to $300 per child on the 15th of every month, through the end of the calendar year, with a final lump sum of up to $1,800 per child on families’ 2021 tax returns. The Build Back Better Act would extend these increased payments for American families through 2022 and ensure that the families most in need would receive the maximum benefits. Please click here for more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Child Tax Credit. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403734,Statement from U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor in Support of the Cuban People’s Fundamental Rights Ahead of Planned November 15th Peaceful Protests,2021-11-14,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"As Cubans and Cuban Americans gather in peaceful protest, I stand with them in solidarity – for freedom and fundamental human rights in the face of worsening oppression from the communist regime. Autocratic Cuba has failed its people. It is time for the Cuban people to be able to freely choose their leadership and their future, and for a peaceful transfer of power. Cuban citizens must be allowed to demonstrate peacefully for fundamental freedoms. I condemn the Cuban regime’s acts of repression and call for the immediate release of arbitrarily detained Cuban citizens. The Tampa community has been central and supportive of human rights and Cuban independence since the days when freedom fighter Jose Marti rallied cigar workers in Tampa for support for Cuban independence over one hundred years ago. It is no different now. My neighbors are lending their voices and rallying in the streets in support of their families and friends who are in living in desperation on the island.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-mario-diaz-balart-honors-fl-25-veterans,Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart Honors FL-25 Veterans,2021-11-12,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Miami, FL – This week, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) recognized a group of local veterans with the Congressional Veteran Commendation. The Congressional Veteran Commendation is a nominations-based program designed to recognize the wartime sacrifices and peacetime community involvement of veterans residing in Florida's 25th Congressional District. The honorees listed below will be interviewed, and their wartime collections will be added to the Veterans History Project, sponsored by the Library of Congress. Colonel William G. Perez– United States Marine Corps Miami Lakes, FL Lieutenant Colonel Duilia Mora Turner– United States Air Force Doral, FL Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Barry Walters– United States Marine Corps Naples, FL Captain Robert Francis Merkel– United States Marine Corps Hialeah, FL Sergeant First Class Heriberto Alvarado Hartnack– United States Army Naples, FL ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-leads-letter-asking-president-biden-support-cuban-people,Diaz-Balart Leads Letter Asking President Biden to Support the Cuban People,2021-11-12,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) led a letter to President Biden, urging that he take decisive and expeditious action to support the Cuban people in their demands for freedom in the wake of the regime's increasing repression leading up to the planned protests on November 15. ""With the Cuban regime’s increasing repression and the planned November 15 protests, I sent a letter to President Biden urging that he take decisive and expeditious action, including through democracy programming, broadcasting, global diplomacy, internet access, and sanctions, to support the longsuffering Cuban people in their pleas for freedom."" Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart was joined by Reps. Maria Elvira Salazar, Carlos A. Gimenez, Nicole Malliotakis, Byron Donalds, Victoria Spartz, and Jenniffer González-Colón. Read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-lidera-carta-pidiendo-al-presidente-biden-que-apoye-al,Díaz-Balart lidera carta pidiendo al presidente Biden que apoye al pueblo Cubano,2021-11-12,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC - Hoy, el congresista Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-25) dirigió una carta al presidente Biden, instando a que tome medidas decisivas y rápidas para apoyar al pueblo cubano en sus demandas por libertad a raíz de la creciente represión del régimen ante las protestas previstas para el 15 de noviembre. ""Con la creciente represión del régimen en Cuba y las protestas planeadas para el 15 de noviembre, envié una carta al presidente Biden instando a que tomara medidas decisivas y rápidas, incluso a través de la programación democrática, la radiodifusión, la diplomacia global, el acceso a Internet y sanciones, para apoyar al sufrido pueblo cubano en sus súplicas por libertad"". Junto al congresista Mario Díaz-Balart firmaron la carta los Representantes Maria Elvira Salazar, Carlos A. Gimenez, Nicole Malliotakis, Byron Donalds, Victoria Spartz, and Jenniffer González-Colón. El texto de la carta en inglés está aquí. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2760,"Wasserman Schultz, Bice Join House Members, Breast Cancer Advocates to Press CDC to Address Decline in COVID-era Screenings",2021-11-12,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Debbie Wasserman Schultz,W000797,wassermanschultz.house.gov,wassermanschultz,https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) and Stephanie Bice (OK-05) and more than forty House Members joined in urging the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to address the pandemic-era decline in routine breast exam screenings and collaborate with Congress to develop solutions to reverse the troubling drop-off in these life-saving procedures. Various public health, economic and advocacy groups have documented that the COVID-19 virus disproportionately affected women. Often, it forced women from the labor force or resulted in them taking on more family and childcare responsibilities as daycares and schools closed for in-person instruction. These responsibilities, along with other health and economic factors, have caused women to forego necessary routine preventative and diagnostic medical testing. “Early detection, more than anything, saves lives. Any decline in breast cancer screenings means more suffering and heartache for the women and families who battle this deadly disease, and tragically dwindling mammography rates means more of them will die,” said Wasserman Schultz. “That is why I am calling on the CDC to pro-actively take action to reverse this drop-off and lessen the emotional, health, and financial toll it will take on millions of women.” “It is critical that we address this alarming decline in breast cancer screenings,” said Bice. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to find solutions to end this life-threatening trend.” The onset of the pandemic saw a drastic drop of more 80 percent in breast cancer screenings, with rates among women of color declining even more. When detected early, breast cancer survival rates are over 95 percent– but when detected in later stages, survival rates can be as low as 66 percent. The Protecting Access to Lifesaving Screening (PALS) Act Coalition members worry that the 84% drop in breast cancer screening due to the pandemic will have a significant impact on early detection. In July, Carolyn Aldigé, Founder and CEO of the Prevent Cancer Foundation stated: ""If diagnosed early, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer is 99%—that's why breast cancer screening is so critical."" “Knowing that screenings save lives, we can’t let down our guard and we urge the CDC to double its efforts collect screening data, improve education and awareness, and to find better ways to reduce barriers to breast cancer screening – all are critically important priorities to reverse the drop in screening rates,” Marilyn Yager, PALS Act Coalition Coordinator. “We thank Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Stephanie Bice for leading this time sensitive congressional message to the CDC.” “Early cancer detection saves lives. Getting more American’s screened for cancer means earlier detection, better quality of life, and much better outcomes” said Kashyap Patel, MD, president of the Community Oncology Alliance (COA) and a practicing medical oncologist in Rock Hill, South Carolina. “Unfortunately, access to cancer screenings is not equitable for our nation’s minority or underserved populations, creating unacceptable disparities in cancer outcomes. We can, and must, do better.” Among the House Members who signed on to today’s CDC letter were U.S. Reps.: Fred Upton (MI-6), Carolyn Maloney (NY-12), Bobby Rush (IL-1), Ron Kind (WI-3), Tom Cole (OK-4), Vern Buchanan (FL-16), Doug Lamborn (CO-5), Jackie Speier (CA-14), Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-3), Cheri Bustos (IL-17), Lois Frankel (FL-21), Derek Kilmer (WA-6), Grace Meng (NY-6), Markwayne Mullin (OK-2), Buddy Carter (GA-1), John Katko (NY-24), David Valadao (CA-21), Don Bacon (NE-2), Anthony G. Brown (MD-4), Liz Cheney (WY-At-Large), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), Al Lawson (FL-5), Tom O’Halleran (AZ-1), Kevin Hern (OK-1), Kelly Armstrong (ND- At-Large), Cindy Axne (IA-3), Jason Crow (CO-6), Antonio Delgado (NY-19), Elaine Luria (VA-2), Elissa Slotkin (MI-8), Abigail Spanberger (VA-7), Bryan Steil (WI-1), Haley Stevens (MI-11), Jeff Van Drew (NJ-2), Andrew Garbarino (NY-2), Kathy Manning (NC-6), Deborah K. Ross (NC-2), Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27), Michelle Steel (CA-48), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24). Read the entire letter below: Dr. Rochelle P. Walensky Director Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1600 Clifton Road, NE Atlanta, GA 30333 Director Walensky, We write to express our concern regarding the decline in routine breast cancer screenings throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This is especially troublesome because early detection, preventive care, and treatment are critical to improving patient outcomes and the chances that they will survive the disease. As such, we urge the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide an update on and address this concerning trend, as well as work with members of Congress on immediate solutions. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers for women in the United States. The average risk of a woman in the U.S. developing breast cancer sometime in her life is about 13%, or a 1 in 8 chance she will develop breast cancer. It is concerning to see data from an October 2020 study from the Community Oncology Alliance, which examined the billing frequencies before and after the onset of the pandemic, showing a nearly 85% drop in breast cancer screenings. Furthermore, the same study found a corresponding decline in mastectomies over the same period, of up to 56% of pre-pandemic levels. Further, we are especially concerned about the lack of screenings available in underserved and minority communities, as data from the CDC’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program showed breast cancer screening declined by 84% among Hispanic women and 98% among American Indian/Alaskan Native women. It is clear that the pandemic has had a disproportionate effect on women, forcing many of them to leave jobs to care for children and family members, and forego routine health screenings, such as those for breast cancer. Many women are faced with difficult choices, and factors like cost, access, and education must be addressed. In addition, preventative health screenings were reduced due to screening site closures, temporary suspension of breast cancer screening services, and health departments shifting resources to fight COVID-19, as well as families needing to stay home to tend to their own health and safety. These trends are reflective of what has been happening across the country and it is critical that we address this backlog in screenings and treatment moving forward to protect the millions of women across the country who are at risk of developing breast cancer. Therefore, we write to inquire about the CDC’s actions to date in response to this concerning trend. Further, to reverse these trends, we urge the CDC to take the following actions: first, continue tracking and frequently provide data and updates on breast cancer screenings; second, focus on improving the number of breast cancer screenings through the Early Detection Program by continuing to encourage health care professionals to conduct routine cancer screenings; third, develop a plan to address barriers preventing women from accessing breast cancer screenings from their healthcare providers, and inform Congress of this plan; And fourth, work with Congress to determine whether legislation or additional funding are necessary to ensure not only that breast cancer screenings resume to pre-pandemic levels, but that health inequities preventing women from accessing these screenings are also addressed. As the pandemic continues to impact communities and the healthcare system across the country, it is critical that routine breast cancer screenings are available to all women who need them to improve outcomes and save lives. ####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-cammack-announces-veteran-year-award-seeks-nominations-years,"Congresswoman Cammack Announces ""Veteran Of The Year Award,"" Seeks Nominations For This Year's Recipient",2021-11-11,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GAINESVILLE, FL – Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack announced the open nomination process for Florida's Third Congressional District's Veteran of the Year Award. The award is an opportunity for local veterans to be honored for their service and contributions to North Central Florida. ""The Veteran of the Year Award recognizes the work of veterans who have served our country and continue to serve the community in Florida's Third Congressional District. Our veteran community is incredibly strong and we're looking forward to honoring one deserving hero for their contributions,"" said Rep. Cammack. ""We're asking for the community's help in finding and nominating these veterans worthy of our gratitude and recognition."" Nominations can be submitted online here and will be accepted until November 30, 2021. Criteria For Honorees: Nominated veterans must be a veteran of one of the five Armed Forces of the U.S. including Reserve or National Guard, or United States Merchant Marines. Nominated veterans must live within the Third Congressional District, which encompasses Alachua County, Bradford County, Clay County, Putnam County, Union County, and parts of Marion County. Veterans must be able to supply a DD-214. Veteran Of The Year Honoree Will Be Selected Based On: Service: Demonstrate a commitment to service in the community through advocacy, community projects, an act of heroism, and/or other actions. Excellence: Provide an example of how this veteran exudes a spirit of excellence. Dedication: Demonstrate dedication to supporting fellow veterans and building bridges between veterans and the North Central Florida community. Nominees will be evaluated by a panel with the winner announced in early December. With questions, please contact the Gainesville office at 352-505-0838 or email Adeline Sandridge. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-commemorates-20th-anniversary-911-attacks,Diaz-Balart Commemorates the 20th Anniversary of 9/11 Attacks,2021-11-11,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement on the 20th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. ""Twenty years after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, we honor the memories of those who perished as a result of an evil plan hatched thousands of miles from our shores. We also remember the heroism of so many Americans on that day and the days after. First responders rushed into the twin towers to save those who were trapped, and brave passengers on Flight 93 rushed the cockpit and thwarted what would have been an even more disastrous attack. In the days and weeks that followed, hundreds combed through the smoking debris to find victims, and many who survived continue to suffer emotional trauma and severe health consequences as a result. Americans came together in response to that horror, and we vowed to combat terrorism, prevent another attack, and deliver those terrorists to the gates of hell. ""The United States did not seek the war on terror; it sought us. Yet America was blessed to have a president with the moral clarity and unshakeable resolve to pursue the terrorists and those who harbored them and to take whatever measures were necessary to keep Americans safe. With a broad coalition of military forces, we and our allies spent the next twenty years fulfilling that promise. ""Today, we remember the heroism, goodness, and resilience of Americans in the face of evil. We also honor the soldiers and Afghan allies who gave it all to successfully defeat terrorists, including the Taliban, and whose mission and legacy were betrayed by an Administration that handed back Afghanistan to the Taliban. ""We must never forget the lessons learned of that horrific attack, which is that we must stand with our friends, remain resolute in our opposition to terrorism, and keep Americans safe."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-recognizes-north-port-artist-and-veteran-sgt-phillip-moore-as-november-fl-17-mvp/,Steube Recognizes North Port Artist and Veteran Sgt Phillip Moore as November FL-17 MVP,2021-11-11,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Steube Recognizes North Port Artist and Veteran Sgt Phillip Moore as November FL-17 MVP NORTH PORT, FLA.— U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today recognized local North Port artist and Army Veteran, Sgt Phillip Moore, as the November FL-17 MVP. “Sgt Moore is a shining example of dedication, patriotism, and service and represents the best that our district has to offer,” Steube said. “He has used his unique talent to not only help manage his own PTSD, but to help his community by showing his art as a form of rehabilitation for fellow veterans.” Sgt Moore served 8 years in the 1st Cavalry Division with the United States Army and later did 3 combat deployments in Iraq from 2004-2010 before leaving the military. He moved to North Port in 2014, and is now a prized local artist, having created the “Art of War,” an 18-piece collection that is on display at the North Port Art Center. Sgt Moore’s art is influenced by his colorblindness. His vision physically shakes when looking at certain colors next to each other, a phenomenon called “Color Vibration.” Proceeds from paintings sold from his “The Art of War” collection will go to the Sgt Phillip S. Moore Veteran’s Art Scholarship, which will offer veterans the opportunity to attend classes at the North Port Art Center free of charge. Steube presented Sgt Moore with a certificate and flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in his honor. Each month, Steube and his team recognize an MVP from the 17th Congressional District who has made outstanding and unique contributions to the community. The purpose of this award is to recognize the unsung heroes across the District as they display extraordinary dedication to making a difference. MVPs are presented with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to thank them for their work and are publicly recognized in Steube’s weekly newsletter. To submit deserving nominees, constituents are encouraged to visit Steube.House.Gov/FL17MVP.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2021/11/buchanan-calls-action-his-bill-combat-veteran-suicides,Buchanan Calls for Action on His Bill to Combat Veteran Suicides,2021-11-10,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Ahead of Veterans Day, Congressman Vern Buchanan today sent a letter to the leaders of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee urging consideration of his bipartisan legislation to investigate the link between addictive opioids and the alarmingly high rate of suicides among veterans. Buchanan’s Veteran Overmedication and Suicide Prevention Act (H.R. 67) would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to review the deaths of all veterans it treated who died by suicide or from a drug overdose in the last five years. The new data generated by the bill will be used to better treat veterans suffering from both mental and physical injuries. “The high rate of suicide and drug overdose deaths among veterans is unacceptable,"" Buchanan said. “This legislation is critical to learning if prescription drugs, particularly opioid painkillers, are a contributing factor in veteran suicides. I encourage my colleagues on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee to pass this bill to further address these untimely deaths.” According to the VA, at least 60,000 veterans died by suicide between 2008 and 2017 – nearly 17 per day. Veteran suicides account for nearly 15 percent of all suicides in the United States. Joining Buchanan on the letter was Congressman Gerald Connolly, D-VA, the bill’s main Democratic co-sponsor. “It is clear we must do more to end this crisis and help reduce this needless and preventable loss of life,” said Buchanan and Connolly. This legislation is endorsed by three Veterans Service Organizations: the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) and AMVETS. “Understanding the impact of overmedication and veteran suicide begins with data,” said a representative for the VFW. “This legislation will help illuminate the seriousness and scope of this causation. Reducing the number of service members and veterans who die by suicide has been a priority for the VFW and will remain so until it is no longer needed. We must do whatever it takes to save the almost 20 service members and veterans who die by suicide every day.” Earlier this year, a Buchanan measure passed the House to provide $2 million to the VA to study the link between veteran suicides and highly addictive opioids. Buchanan has a strong record of fighting for veterans and military families. He is a past recipient of the VFW Legislative Achievement Award. Last Congress, a Buchanan measure to reduce military training accidents following the death of Bradenton soldier Nicolas Panipinto was enacted into law. In 2015, Buchanan’s bill allowing all veterans in America to receive an official identification card, the Veterans ID Card Act was signed into law. Buchanan also introduced an amendment enacted in 2007 to study the feasibility of a standard soldier-patient tracking system. You can read the letter here or below. Dear Chairman Takano and Ranking Member Bost, We write today as the lead sponsors of H.R. 67, the Veteran Overmedication and Suicide Prevention Act, to request the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs take action on our bipartisan bill to study the link between addictive opioids and the alarmingly high rate of suicide among veterans. As you know, nearly 17 veterans die by suicide each day, a rate nearly twice as high as civilians. Due in part to this troubling statistic, we believe this bill is not only commonsense, but entirely necessary to help combat this tragic epidemic Our legislation, endorsed by three of the nation’s major veterans service organizations, would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to review the deaths of all veterans it treated who died by suicide or from a drug overdose in the last five years. This important new information will be used to better treat veterans suffering from both mental and physical injuries and is critical to learning if prescription drugs, particularly opioid painkillers, are a contributing factor in suicide-related veteran deaths. The VFW, which endorsed our legislation, stated that “[u]nderstanding the impact of overmedication and veteran suicide begins with data. This legislation will help illuminate the seriousness and scope of this causation. Reducing the number of service members and veterans who die by suicide has been a priority for the VFW and will remain so until it is no longer needed. We must do whatever it takes to save the almost 20 service members and veterans who die by suicide every day.” According to a September 2019 VA report: At least 60,000 veterans died by suicide between 2008 and 2017. Veteran suicides account for about 15 percent of all suicides in the United States, with a veteran committing suicide every 72 minutes. The VA has a history of freely prescribing opioid pain medication to veterans, reaching its highest level in 2012 with more than 438,000 long-term opioid patients. Unfortunately, despite the VA taking steps to reduce the number of opioid prescriptions it dispenses by 70 percent between 2012 and 2020, veterans are still committing suicide at a startling rate. Given the recent call by seven former VA secretaries to create a National Warrior Call Day to raise awareness about military and veteran suicides, and the fact that more than 93,000 Americans died from an overdose last year, it is clear we must do more to end this crisis and help reduce this needless and preventable loss of life. Furthermore, earlier this year, the U.S. House passed legislation that included our bipartisan amendment to fund the review called for in our bill and to provide a report to Congress. Thank you for your service and commitment to our nation’s many veterans and I look forward to your prompt reply to this critically important issue. Sincerely, Vern Buchanan Member of Congress Gerald E. Connolly",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=403733,"Chair Castor, Committee Members Highlight U.S. Climate Action at COP26, Bolster Speaker's Congressional Delegation",2021-11-09,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Chair Kathy Castor of the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis released the following statement on Tuesday after arriving in Glasgow, Scotland, for the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, alongside Speaker Nancy Pelosi, other members of the Select Committee, and the rest of the Speaker's congressional delegation: “The United States is increasing its commitment to clean energy and climate action - and we are sharing our plan with the world. It's such an honor to attend this historic climate summit alongside Speaker Pelosi, who has cemented her legacy as the most ambitious climate leader in the history of the House of Representatives,” said Chair Castor. “Thanks to the Speaker's leadership and tenacious vision, we are poised to pass nearly a trillion dollars in investments to start solving the climate crisis - the largest single investment in climate and clean energy in our history. And over the next few days, we will proudly join President Biden's team here in Glasgow to show the world that we're ready to partner on solutions and unleash the clean energy economy.” The Select Committee Members on the delegation are: Chair Kathy Castor (D-FL), Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA), Congressman Jared Huffman (D-CA), Congressman Mike Levin (D-CA), Congressman Sean Casten (D-IL), Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO), and Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (D-TX). In Glasgow, the delegation will participate in bilateral meetings, panel discussions and other engagements with global leaders on top climate priorities, including the recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, gender equity and public-private sector coordination on climate action. “The climate crisis is the existential threat of our time, and America must continue to bring our boldest ambitions to the table to meet and beat our climate action goals,” said Speaker Nancy Pelosi. “Together with this outstanding, experienced and diverse delegation including Committee Chairs, Members of the House Select Committee on Climate Crisis and respected Members of Congress, I am honored to once again return to the United Nations Climate Change Conference to convey the strong commitment of the U.S. Congress in addressing this crisis and doing so in a way that puts justice and equity – particularly for indigenous communities – first.” The Members will highlight the work done in Congress to help President Biden meet his goal of slashing emissions in half by 2030, including recent passage of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), as well as progress on moving forward with the Build Back Better Act. Chair Castor lauded the historic passage of the IIJA last week, saying: “With this vote, the House of Representatives has delivered a historic investment in America’s infrastructure. This bipartisan bill makes progress on recommendations in our Climate Crisis Action Plan and takes steps to strengthen the grid, support electric vehicles, advance environmental justice, and prepare communities for costly weather disasters. Now it’s time to finish the job by passing the Build Back Better Act.” The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act advances a number of priorities in the Select Committee’s Climate Crisis Action Plan, including: New investments in Electric Grid Resilience and Expansion, including grid hardening ($5 billion), grid reliability and resilience research, development, and demonstration ($5 billion), a revolving loan fund to facilitate the construction of transmission lines ($2.5 billion), and the deployment of technologies to enhance grid flexibility ($3 billion). The IIJA also improves inter-state transmission siting so more Americans can access clean energy, creates a new Grid Deployment Authority to help build a resilient and clean electric grid, and increases the borrowing authority of the Bonneville Power Administration by $10 billion which could help build new transmission lines. Historic investments in Transportation Infrastructure, including rail ($66 billion), transit ($39 billion), and a carbon reduction program to reduce transportation emissions ($6.4 billion). Investing in our Children, including $7.5 billion for clean school buses and ferries, grants for energy efficiency, renewable energy, and clean vehicles at public schools ($500 million), and historic investments in broadband ($65 billion). Investments in Environmental Justice (EJ) Communities, including historic funding for cleaning up legacy pollution ($21 billion), funding for Tribal Climate Resilience ($216 million), and a $1 billion program to reconnect EJ communities divided by highways. Doubling down on Electric Vehicles (EV), including the largest Federal investment ever in EV charging ($7.5 billion), funding for the Low or No Emission Vehicle (“Low-No Bus”) program ($5.25 billion), and support for developing a U.S. battery processing industry and EV battery recycling ($6.3 billion). The IIJA also requires states to consider establishing rates that promote transportation electrification and affordable and equitable EV charging. Reducing Emissions through Energy Efficiency, including by renewing the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program (EECBG) ($550 million), funding an energy efficiency revolving loan fund within the State Energy Program ($250 million), funding for the Department of Energy (DOE) to support implementation of updated building energy codes ($225 million), and enhanced funding for the Weatherization Assistance Program ($3.5 billion). The IIJA also requires states to consider promoting demand response to reduce electricity consumption during peak times. Resilience to Climate-Fueled Disasters, including enhanced funding for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) coastal resilience programs ($1.5 billion), funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program ($1 billion), $3.5 billion for FEMA Flood Mitigation Assistance, and $17 billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers including funding for ecosystem restoration and coastal resilience. Reducing Wildfire Risk, including funding for hazardous fuels reduction, controlled burning, and community defense resources ($3.3 billion), ecosystem restoration on public and private lands ($2 billion), and burying power lines and building microgrids ($5 billion). Critical Water Infrastructure investments, including funding for water storage, recycling, and desalination ($2.5 billion), environmental programs for Western water ($980 million), and funding for the Twenty-First Century Dams Act ($2.5 billion). Clean Drinking Water for All, including the largest investment in clean drinking water in American history, including $23.4 billion for the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds (SRF), $15 billion to replace lead service lines, $10 billion to address dangerous PFAS chemicals, and $3.5 billion for Indian Health Service water and sewer infrastructure and resilience. ### Background: In June of 2020, the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis Democrats released the majority staff report Solving the Climate Crisis: The Congressional Action Plan for a Clean Energy Economy and a Healthy, Resilient, and Just America. This report provides a roadmap for Congress—a Climate Crisis Action Plan—to build a prosperous, clean energy economy that values workers, advances environmental justice, and is prepared to meet the challenges of the climate crisis. House Democrats have already passed more than 250 of the recommendations in the Climate Crisis Action Plan, and have successfully worked to turn over 100 of them into law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z