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://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-secures-over-20-million-federal-funding-local-projects,Bilirakis Secures Over $20 Million in Federal Funding for Local Projects,2022-12-29,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"December 29, 2022 Washington, DC: In keeping with his long-standing tradition of providing exceptional constituent service, Congressman Gus Bilirakis has worked tirelessly throughout the past year to ensure that his community received its fair share of federally allocated funds. In total, 12 of the 15 priority project proposals submitted by Congressman Gus Bilirakis this year have just been approved. These projects will bring a total $20,275,000 in federal funding to the Tampa Bay area. Each of the selected projects address substantial unmet needs within Florida's 12th Congressional District, including: $2 million to help prevent flooding in north Pinellas and south Pasco counties through stormwater and roadway improvements, $3 million for Moffitt’s Pasco County Expansion to build the Research and Life Science Facility that will serve as a regional hub for the delivery of high-quality healthcare, cancer research, education, and biotech business development. $800,000 for the Pasco County Alliance for Healthy Communities Substance Use Prevention Program to provide coordinated behavioral health services in an effort to combat the overdose crisis occurring throughout the community. In 2021, Pasco had a record high of 1,526 overdoses. $500,000 to support more than 300 at-risk middle and high school aged girls in Pasco and Hernando counties enrolled in the PACE Center for Girls program achieve long-term socio-economic independence by graduating from high school, entering higher education, attaining certification training, and gaining employment skills, $2.5 million to build a one-stop-shop senior center in Pasco County operated by CARES. The services provided through the center will help improve the quality of life and maintain independence for many of the most frail and vulnerable seniors within the community, $2 million for the Craig Park/Spring Bayou Seawall Repair in Tarpon Springs. These funds would be used to replace deteriorating historic seawalls and waterfront sidewalk, raising them to address sea level rise. Tarpon Springs is the lowest city land area in Pinellas County and is the greatest at risk to flooding. The sidewalks and City dock on Spring Bayou are frequently underwater which has caused structural problems. Access to the scenic Spring Bayou area is often barricaded to pedestrian access. $1.27 million for to build new units of housing at the Vincent House for those struggling with mental illness, $2 million for the Pasco Sheriff’s Department to upgrade technology at its regional Center for the Recovery of Missing Persons, $2.4 million to install ADA-compliant bus stops along Moon Lake Road in West Pasco, $600k for the Lighthouse for Visually impaired to assist older adults in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus, counties by empowering these adults with disabilities to live more independently in their home and communities with a focus on improved mental health, $2 million for renovation of the Children’s Crisis Stabilization Unit operated by Personal Enrichment through Mental Health Services, $1.225 million for a school readiness and early literacy program operated by the Pinellas County Education Foundation “While I am no proponent of big government spending, I have a duty to ensure my community receives its fair share of allocated federal resources and to be transparent about my efforts to prioritize these important projects. Each of these good projects will help strengthen our local infrastructure, benefit our community, and assist local residents, "" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. To learn more about these approved projects, click here. If Congress allows future community projects to be considered, Congressman Bilirakis will share application details on his website. Issues:Economic Policy",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-bill-honor-last-living-nuremberg-prosecutor-signed-law,Bipartisan Bill to Honor Last Living Nuremberg Prosecutor Signed Into Law,2022-12-29,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), Lois Frankel (D-FL-21), Joe Wilson (R-SC-02), Ted Deutch (D-FL-22), Jim McGovern (D-MA-02), and Chris Smith (R-NJ-04) released the following statements after their bipartisan bill to award Benjamin Ferencz—the last living Nuremberg prosecutor—a Congressional Gold Medal was signed into law. ""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. 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 help honor him,"" said Rep. Bilirakis. ""It is an honor to recognize the last living Nuremberg prosecutor, 102-year-old Benjamin Ferencz, with the Congressional Gold Medal—Congress's highest expression of civilian appreciation. Mr. Ferencz's lifelong commitment to justice, peace, and human dignity is an inspiration to all who value freedom and humanity,"" said Rep. Frankel. ""Now, the US Senate must get this bipartisan bill over the finish line so that we can give Mr. Ferencz the recognition he deserves."" ""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 international rule of law,"" said Rep. Wilson. ""Mr. Ferencz deserves our respect and appreciation. I am grateful to have co-led this bill to award him the Congressional Gold Medal and for the passage of this bill today. Thank you for your lifelong dedication to justice and integrity."" ""The Nuremberg Trials, the first international war crimes tribunal in human history, was a monumental milestone for the international community—a step toward true accountability for those who committed crimes against humanity during World War II. Ben Ferencz, who spent more than 50 years prosecuting the most horrific war crimes, is a living embodiment of the Nuremberg legacy,"" said Rep. Ted Deutch. ""Mr. Ferencz's lifetime of work carries particular significance today. At a time when there are fewer and fewer Holocaust survivors to share their experiences, Mr. Ferencz, the last remaining prosecutor from this tribunal, is a shining example to us all of the continued importance of speaking out, showing zero tolerance for war crimes, and ensuring what happened during the Holocaust never happens again. In honoring him, we commit to continuing his efforts."" ""Ben Ferencz has dedicated his life to standing up for human rights and justice,"" said Rules Committee Chairman James P. McGovern. ""As Co-Chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, I often hear how grave atrocities such as genocide happen because good people look the other way or fail to take action. Ben Ferencz has spent the last five decades ensuring that we do not look away—and that those who commit these heinous crimes are held accountable. Nuremberg is the model on how to investigate, how to interrogate, how to prosecute, and how to mete out justice. I am so proud that Congress came together in a bipartisan way to honor Mr. Ferencz with the Congressional Gold Medal. For ‘never again' to mean ‘enough is enough,' it is critically important for us to continue to honor and elevate the work of heroes like Mr. Ferencz."" During World War II, 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 battle stars for his service. Later, he was appointed Chief Prosecutor in the trial that convicted 22 former Nazi Schutzstaffel (SS) officials for their roles in the murder of over a million people.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 Congress' highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. The first Congressional Gold Medal was given to George Washington in 1776 and has been awarded just 179 times to our nation's heroes, activists, scientists, and other important figures in our society.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/two-more-bilirakis-bills-become-law-1,Two More Bilirakis Bills Become Law,2022-12-29,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Two bills authored by Congressman Bilirakis were signed into law as part of the end of year Omnibus spending package. While the Congressman could not, in good conscience, vote for the final spending package due to the damage that continued reckless spending will have on his constituents, he is pleased to see the consumer protection measures he has worked on over the past two years as the lead Republican on the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee finally become law. The first bill, ""Reporting Attacks from Nations Selected for Oversight and Monitoring Web Attacks and Ransomware from Enemies Act"" or the ""RANSOMWARE Act"" will strengthen the federal government's efforts to respond to recent ransomware and other cyber-attacks from foreign adversaries, such as China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. “We have seen an increase in cyber-crimes targeting Americans across the country, from hospitals, law enforcement entities, to even run-of-the-mill businesses in our communities. Congress should be better equipped with information that the Federal Trade Commission learns of by working with foreign law enforcement agencies, and as a result of receiving cross-border complaints that involve ransomware and cyber security threats, so that we may work to make America more resilient,” said Congressman Bilirakis. Specifically, Bilirakis's legislation will amend and update the U.S. SAFE WEB Act of 2006, which first enabled cooperation with foreign law enforcement agencies on international consumer protection issues and will require the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to report on cross-border complaints involving ransomware. The second Bilirakis measure included in the package is the Integrity, Notification, and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces for Consumers (INFORM Consumers) Act, which directs online marketplaces to verify the identity of high-volume third-party sellers of consumer products. Congressman Bilirakis led this legislation with his colleague, Chairman Jan Schakowsky. Requiring authentication of the identity of these online sellers will help deter organized retail crime rings who seek to sell stolen or counterfeit goods online. The bill will also benefit consumers by providing them with basic identification and contact information for the high-volume third-party sellers. Click here to listen to Bilirakis discussing this initiative when it was considered on the House Floor. ""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 Gus Bilirakis. ""This bill is a win-win for consumers and legitimate businesses in the online marketplace."" Along with the rise in popularity of online marketplaces like Amazon, Facebook, and eBay, there has been an increase of stolen, counterfeit, and dangerous consumer products offered for sale online to consumers. Currently, it is relatively easy for third-party sellers to go onto an online marketplace, create an account, sell high volumes of illicit goods to unwitting consumers, and then shut down the account and disappear before facing any accountability.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cammack-visits-us-troops-overseas-during-christmas-tour,Rep. Cammack Visits U.S. Troops Overseas During Christmas Tour,2022-12-29,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GAINESVILLE, FL — Over the last week, Congresswoman Kat Cammack visited with American servicemembers on military bases in the Middle East during a congressional delegation trip over the Christmas holiday. The delegation made stops in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Greece, visiting with U.S. servicemembers serving across Europe and the Middle East. While there, they served lunch to and ate with enlisted servicemembers from their home districts on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, hearing from them about their missions and their time in the U.S. Armed Forces. The members also visited with local children at an educational center at one of the stops. ""It's a special privilege to be with our troops during Christmas, and to thank them for all they do and sacrifice to keep our nation safe,"" said Cammack. ""It was great to spend time with our active-duty military, reservists, and National Guardsmen and women. Their families are thinking of them not just during Christmastime, but throughout the year, and as members of Congress, it's a rare opportunity to let these heroes just how much we appreciate and support them when they can't share the holidays with their families and friends back home."" Rep. David Cicilline (D-RI), who chairs the Subcommittee on Middle East, North Africa, and Global Counterterrorism with the House Foreign Affairs Committee led the congressional delegation trip. Reps. Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Aumua Amata (R-American Samoa), Joe Wilson (R-SC), and Susan Wild (D-PA) also joined. ""I met several constituents from Florida's Third, including a handful from Alachua, Clay, Marion, and Putnam Counties. One constituent from Orange Park is serving with the U.S. Space Force and shared a patch from her unit that I'll proudly display in my office to think of her and all the amazing people we met during our travels. On behalf of Florida's Third Congressional District, thank you to the men and women serving our nation around the world—we will work hard to continue honoring your service and sacrifice year-round."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=413,PHOTO RELEASE: Franklin Sworn in as Congressman for Floridas 15th Congressional District,2022-12-27,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Scott Franklin was sworn in as the U.S. representative for Florida’s 15th congressional district. Congressman Scott Franklin was joined by his wife, Amy. “I want to thank my constituents for trusting me to serve as their congressman in the 117th Congress,” said Congressman Scott Franklin. “My family and I are excited to be here in Washington, and I look forward to serving on behalf of Floridians in the 15th district. My office is here to assist you, and I can’t wait to meet you all in the district.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-greg-steube-s-statement-on-the-america-last-omnibus/,Rep. Greg Steube’s Statement on the “America Last” Omnibus,2022-12-24,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Greg Steube’s Statement on the “America Last” Omnibus WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today released the following statement on his opposition to the lame duck, “America Last” omnibus bill passing the U.S. House of Representatives:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-statement-fy23-spending-package,Diaz-Balart Statement on the FY23 Spending Package,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25), Ranking Member of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee on Appropriations, issued the following statement regarding the FY23 funding bill. “Despite having months to work on this bill in good faith with House Republicans, this 4,000+ page spending package was drafted behind closed doors and released less than a week before government funding expires. As the American people continue to suffer the consequences of this Administration’s reckless spending and wasteful economic policies, increasing non-defense discretionary spending on these radical left-wing policies will only further fuel and lengthen inflation.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=9572A32B-5554-4F00-93A0-D8EA4CDAFF0E,Webster: Congress Again Fails to Restore Fiscal Responsibility,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – A consistent advocate for cutting government spending who has also taken steps personally to set an example, today Florida Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) released the following statement regarding his opposition to the Senate’s omnibus government spending bill. H.R. 2617, the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Act restricts funding for border security and spends taxpayer dollars on dubious programs while making no attempt to seriously address the government spending problem. “I have continuously called on my colleagues – Democrat and Republican alike – to return to a responsible and thorough process for developing the federal budget. They have both failed to do so and instead, the U.S. Senate released a 4,000+ page budget that was developed by a handful of members on a timeline that doesn’t allow us to fully review before being required to cast our vote. It's a slap in face of Americans that this bill invests in other countries' security while specifically restricting it on our own border. “I have also consistently worked to reform Washington and oppose my colleagues’ exorbitant and dangerous spending habit. I also reject the Washington presumption that nothing can be cut in order to fund priorities without increasing the deficit. I hope next Congress, my colleagues will embrace their obligation to develop a thoughtful, fiscally responsible budget early and with an open process. “I am confident we can set our nation on a responsible fiscal path while investing in critical priorities, including border security, infrastructure projects, and our military. It starts with Congress rejecting the practice of last-minute funding deals and policies that restrict economic growth.” Webster annually returns funds allocated for his Congressional offices to the U.S. Treasury – saving more than $4 million taxpayer dollars. Additionally, every year Rep. Webster delivers a check to the Treasury to roll back his salary to 2008 amount. Although this may appear as a small action given the trillions of dollars the federal government spends, it is a step in the right direction. If all federal government spending was rolled back to 2008 amounts, we would no longer have a budget deficit and could begin to pay down our debts. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/12/buchanan-bill-help-student-veterans-passes-us-senate-0,Buchanan Bill to Help Student Veterans Passes U.S. Senate,2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,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 legislation, the Veterans Eligible to Transfer School (VETS) Credit Act, unanimously passed the U.S. Senate. The bill now heads to the president’s desk for signature and will be Buchanan’s 27th measure signed into law. The VETS Credit Act, H.R.6604, would help student veterans by ensuring they are able to quickly and easily transfer their course credits to another institution should their school close or program end suddenly. This legislation passed the U.S. House earlier this year with broad bipartisan support by a vote of 412-1. “The G.I. Bill’s promise of a college education is one of most important and effective tools we have to recruit and retain the very best and brightest to serve in the U.S. armed forces,” said Buchanan. “I’m pleased to see the U.S. Senate approve my bill, the VETS Credit Act, to ensure that no veteran loses access to the valuable G.I. Bill credits they earned and deserve by virtue of their service and look forward to this important measure being signed into law.” While current law requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to restore G.I. Bill benefits (up to 12 credits) to eligible student veterans whose schools close or program ends in the middle of a semester, the process can be very confusing and oftentimes leaves veterans unable to easily transfer their earned credits to a new school. Specifically, Buchanan’s bill would require the VA to work with students and explain the school credit transfer process and to provide them with a certificate of eligibility from the VA providing proof of their restored benefits. In their endorsement of Buchanan’s bill, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) said, “IAVA is committed to ensuring that every veteran can take full advantage of their earned education benefits and that no veteran loses valuable G.I. Bill credits if their school closes or program ends. The Veterans Eligible to Transfer School (VETS) Credit Act will guarantee that affected veterans can easily transfer their course credits to another institution if that happens thereby avoiding the unnecessary loss of benefits.” The VETS Credit Act has also been endorsed by Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Veterans Education Success (VES). Buchanan's bill also included a provision from Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-NC) that makes it easier for dependents of veterans or active-duty military to retain transferred Post-9/11 G.I. bill benefits. Rep. Murphy said, “Eastern North Carolina veterans earned their benefits with honorable military service to our country. With Rep. Buchanan’s VETS Credit Act headed to the president’s desk, these benefits are guaranteed so that our servicemen and women returning home have easy access to a college education. I’m proud that my commonsense bill is included in the VETS Credit Act to ensure clerical errors do not prevent dependents from receiving well-earned educational assistance. This is a tremendous step for our outstanding military families and I look forward to seeing how this legislation will help them obtain the benefits they deserve.” Buchanan has a strong record of fighting for veterans and military families. Last year, a Buchanan measure to reduce military training accidents following the death of Bradenton soldier Nicolas Panipinto was enacted into law. Buchanan has also introduced the Veterans Overmedication and Suicide Prevention Act, which requires the VA to study the link between addictive opioids and the alarmingly high rate of suicides among veterans.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-urges-senate-republicans-oppose-democrats-omnibus-wish-list,Rutherford Urges Senate Republicans to Oppose Democrats' Omnibus Wish List,2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,John H. Rutherford,R000609,rutherford.house.gov,rutherford,https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman John Rutherford (FL-04) released the following statement urging Republican Senators to oppose the Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2023: ""Over the last two years, Democrats have been on a reckless spending spree, culminating in this massive spending bill being pushed through Congress just days before Christmas. Instead of working with Republicans on the 12 annual appropriations bills through regular order, the Senate Majority ignored the committee process and dropped this colossal bill filled with riders at the last minute. On top of that, Democrats are at it again with their budget gimmicks. By shifting funding to supplemental funding for Ukraine and disaster response, more money is freed up in the base bill to go toward Democrat priorities. Democrats have already forced billions of dollars through this year in their so-called Inflation Reduction Act, which, instead of providing relief for the American people, has spent billions of dollars on Green New Deal initiatives, socialist bailouts, and a lengthy progressive wish list. This last minute 4,000-plus-page omnibus offers more of the same. It gives even more money to the IRS, plusses up renewable energy programs, and continues programs expanded through the COVID-19 public health emergency. This is all while failing to fund enhanced border security or provide offsets to new spending. Ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent to reflect the interests and values of the American people is one of Congress's most important responsibilities. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I am committed to being a good steward of taxpayer dollars and ensuring federal spending reflects our nation's priorities. That is why I urge my Republican colleagues in the Senate to oppose this bill. Next Congress, House Republicans will be able to develop a plan to cut wasteful spending and reduce inflation, while prioritizing border security and our national defense."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammack-announces-2022-congressional-app-challenge-winner,Congresswoman Kat Cammack Announces 2022 Congressional App Challenge Winner,2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GAINESVILLE, FL — Today Congresswoman Kat Cammack named Melissa Li, Hailey Lin, Katie He, and Una Kinbarovsky the winners of the 2022 Congressional App Challenge. Ms. Li created an app called ""PlanIt,"" which provides users with an integrated, customizable planner that uses a rewards system to incentivize and motivate users to track and complete their daily activities. ""I'm excited to name this team this year's Congressional App Challenge winner,"" said Rep. Cammack. ""It's truly incredible to see these talented high school students channel their creativity in such innovative ways, using sophisticated technology and coding software at such a young age. I'd like to congratulate all our applicants from the competition for being part of the next wave of young innovators, and of course, the winners of the challenge for their app, 'PlanIt.' We can’t wait to see what you do next!"" Winners of the Congressional App Challenge are eligible to have their app displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building and featured on the House of Representatives website. They are also invited to a reception on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. to celebrate their accomplishments. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammack-names-ansil-lewis-2022-veteran-year-floridas-third,Congresswoman Kat Cammack Names Ansil Lewis 2022 Veteran Of The Year In Florida's Third Congressional District,2022-12-19,2022,2022-12,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. Ansil Lewis, a 30-year United States Marine Corps veteran. Mr. Lewis served as a Sergeant Major in the United States Marine Corps from 1987 to 2017, where he received the Bronze Star; Legion of Merit; Meritorious Service Medal; Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal; Combat Action Ribbon; Joint Meritorious Unit Award; Navy Unit Commendation; and the Military Outstanding Volunteer Medal. After his decades-long service to our nation, Mr. Lewis has continued to demonstrate his dedication to our area's veterans as an involved member of the Clay County veteran community, serving as the past Commandant of the Roy S. Geiger Marine Corps League Detachment 1047, a member of the board for Operation Bambas, and the president of the Veterans Council of Clay County. ""I'm honored to announce Mr. Lewis as the 2022 Veteran of the Year,"" said Congresswoman Cammack. ""Sergeant Major Lewis served our nation honorably for three decades, committing his life's work to the Stars and Stripes. Upon his return, he's only increased his commitment to our veteran community, introducing more people to our region's vibrant history of service and leadership. From his presidency with the Veterans Council of Clay County to his organization of dozens of events for our nation's heroes, I can't think of anyone more deserving of this honor. I'm excited to celebrate this award with Mr. Lewis and his family in the new year."" Congresswoman Cammack has flown a flag over the U.S. Capitol in Sergeant Major Lewis' honor and has entered his service into the Congressional Record. A ceremony formally recognizing this honor will take place in January in Gainesville. Last year's inaugural Veteran of the Year Award honoree was the late Corporal Duane Dewey, a 1953 Medal of Honor recipient and Korean War veteran. Congresswoman Cammack thanks the community for submitting their entries for this year's Veteran of the Year and looks forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=C45E632D-1984-4159-98A1-96D57CF36289,Webster Bill to Prevent FEMA Clawbacks to Become Law,2022-12-19,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — On Thursday, December 15, 2022, the U.S. Senate passed legislation introduced by Congressman Webster - the Preventing Disaster Revictimization Act, to ensure innocent disaster victims won’t have their assistance clawed back by the federal government when it makes an error. The bill passed the House on December 8thas part of the National Defense Authorization Act and will now be sent to the President to be signed into law. “Florida is no stranger to the devastating effects of hurricanes and natural disasters,” said Rep. Webster. “Federal aid is crucial for many victims’ ability to recover and rebuild in the wake of disaster. FEMA should be focused on helping victims recover, not putting them on the hook for errors made by the government. This commonsense bill will help protect victims and bring further accountability to FEMA.” Originally introduced in the House of Representatives with Reps. Sam Graves (R-MO), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), and Jennifer Gonzalez-Colon (R-PR) the Preventing Disaster Revictimization Act stops the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) from taking back disaster assistance funds that it mistakenly awarded to victims who applied for assistance in good faith and utilized that money to help rebuild their lives. The bill requires FEMA to waive the debt of disaster relief recipients in cases where the agency later determined it mistakenly granted assistance, but no fraud was committed. Under current law, FEMA can come back weeks, months, or even years later to seek repayment of funds it awarded victims, even when the agency is at fault for making the error and the funds were appropriately used in the wake of a disaster. FEMA is also required to reports Congress on its efforts to minimize similar errors in the future. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/12/2022-app-challenge,Buchanan Honors Area Student Who Invented App to Help Foreign Language Students,2022-12-18,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"SARASOTA, Fla — Congressman Vern Buchanan recognized Jace Billingsley as the winner of the 2022 Congressional District App Challenge. Billingsley designed a software application to help foreign language students translate school lessons in real time. Buchanan hailed the ingenuity of Billingsley, saying “I can’t commend him enough for inventing such an important tool for international students. As a two-time winner of the Congressional App Challenge, Jace clearly has a bright future as an aspiring web applications developer.” Jace Billingsley is a 14-year-old 8th grade student at Buffalo Creek Middle School in Palmetto, Fla. He also won last year’s Congressional District App Challenge for his development of “The Code Blue App,” which helps 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.” “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 Jace.” The winning entry, “ClassTranslate” was developed to help international students in American schools translate their lessons from English to their native language. Unlike other translation apps, ClassTranslate is specifically made for classrooms, allows students to download their language transcripts, offers multi-language support and provides live clarification to ensure students are typing lessons and conversations accurately. 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. “Since I started participating in the Congressional App Challenge, I have learned so much about how to publish apps and speak about them,” said Billingsley. “I enjoy creating practical applications that have a real-world use. The idea for this year’s app came from a need I saw firsthand in my class. I had Ukrainian classmates that did not speak English, and I wanted to do something to help them communicate more efficiently in a classroom setting. So, I created ClassTranslate.” The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts overall employment in the economy to grow by 5.3 percent between 2021 and 2031, while jobs in STEM fields are expected to grow by 10.8 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,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://gimenez.house.gov/2022/12/gim-nez-calls-on-state-department-for-information-on-americans-stranded-in-per,GIMÉNEZ CALLS ON STATE DEPARTMENT FOR INFORMATION ON AMERICANS STRANDED IN PERÚ,2022-12-16,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"MIAMI, FL – Following the democratic impeachment of socialist President Pedro Castillo for attempting to dissolve the Congress of the Republic of Perú, a large group of American tourists, including several Floridians and residents of Miami-Dade County, have been stranded in-country as violent, anti-democratic forces fan the flames of social unrest in Perú. Today, Congressman Carlos Giménez (FL-26) sent a letter to the U.S. Department of State officials handling this case to call for the U.S. Department of State to provide information on the situation unfolding and guarantee the safety of U.S. citizens currently stranded in the Republic of Perú. The office of Congressman Giménez has also contacted the U.S. Embassy in Perú. Congressman Giménez looks forward to an immediate response and keeping an open line of communication with both the U.S. Embassy and the Department of State. The full text of Congressman Giménez’s letter is below. Honorable Antony Blinken, Secretary of State Honorable Brian Nichols, Assistant Secretary of State Honorable Lisa Kenna, Ambassador",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FF7E596D-8240-4B49-8E7C-AF17BDE1A7D5,Webster: The VA Needs More Accountability Not Less,2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, released the following statement regarding his opposition to the passage of H.R. 1948 the VA Employee Fairness Act, which reduces the ability to hold Veteran Administration (VA) employees accountable for serving our veterans. “More accountability not less is needed at the VA,” said Rep. Webster. “This bill hamstrings the VA Secretary’s ability to ensure the highest quality of care at the VA for America’s veterans. I opposed this legislation because Congress should not strip the Secretary of this responsibility and allow potentially non-medical unions to decide on issues impacting patient care and clinical competence. I am disappointed that Congress would attempt to transfer such a critical responsibility to unaccountable third-party arbitrators.” “Ensuring veterans are receiving the highest quality healthcare is the Secretary’s chief responsibility. We owe our veterans a debt we can never repay. I have and will continue to advocate to bring reform to the VA to ensure our veterans get the care they deserve.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/co-chairs-and-members-congressional-friends-egypt-caucus-meet-president,Co-Chairs and Members of the Congressional Friends of Egypt Caucus Meet with President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi,2022-12-14,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– This morning, Co-Chairs of the Congressional Friends of Egypt Caucus, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL-25) and Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD-2), along with nine other members, met with H.E. President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt. ""As co-chairs of the Congressional Friends of Egypt Caucus, we were honored to meet with Egypt's President, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, to discuss mutual national security interests and shared goals. For decades, Egypt has been a valued partner in forging peace, fighting against terrorism, and promoting global security. Like the United States, Egypt has suffered brutal acts of terrorism within its borders and knows firsthand the high stakes and sacrifice incurred in the struggle for peace and security. We are grateful for Egypt's friendship and look forward to working together toward our mutual goals. ""This year, we marked 100 years of U.S.-Egypt diplomatic relations. As we reflect on our joint successes of the past century, we look forward to fostering this essential relationship and meeting our challenges together for many more years to come."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-we-re-going-to-impeach-secretary-mayorkas/,Rep. Steube: We’re Going to Impeach Secretary Mayorkas,2022-12-14,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Steube: We’re Going to Impeach Secretary Mayorkas WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) joined his House GOP colleagues and Trump Administration Immigration officials at a press conference held in support of impeaching U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas in the 118th Congress. Click here to view Rep. Steube’s remarks. “I know a little something about fighting terrorism…I can’t think of a higher crime than releasing known terrorists into our country.” – U.S. Representative Greg Steube",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://gimenez.house.gov/2022/12/gim-nez-encourages-musk-to-relocate-twitter-to-miami-dade-florida,"GIMÉNEZ ENCOURAGES MUSK TO RELOCATE TWITTER TO MIAMI-DADE, FLORIDA",2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"GIMÉNEZ ENCOURAGES MUSK TO RELOCATE TWITTER TO MIAMI-DADE, FLORIDA WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Carlos A. Giménez (FL-26) sent a letter to Elon Musk, new CEO of Twitter, proposing to relocate Twitter’s Head Quarter from San Francisco, California, to Miami, Florida. Both as Mayor of Miami-Dade County and as a Member of Congress, Rep. Giménez has spearheaded efforts to create good-paying jobs in our community and strengthen Miami-Dade’s tech ecosystem. “I am writing to you as the former Mayor of Miami-Dade County who now has the distinct honor of representing my community in Congress. We want to encourage you to explore our Free State of Florida and make the move to relocate Twitter to Miami-Dade County.” Giménez said in the letter to Musk. “As Mayor of Miami-Dade County, I worked tirelessly to transform our world-class city into a global technology hub. Early on, we identified the tech sector as one with limitless potential and dreamed of creating a Tech Beach, right in the heart of South Florida,” continued Giménez. Additionally, with revelations on Twitter’s previous censorship and Musk’s transparency, the hope that Twitter will continue to remain a beacon of free speech and First Amendment freedoms on the web falls in line with Florida’s values.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-cammack-soto-lead-bipartisan-letter-house-senate-appropriators-requesting,"Reps. Cammack, Soto Lead Bipartisan Letter To House & Senate Appropriators Requesting Relief For Specialty Crop Insurance Providers",2022-12-12,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— Reps. Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) and Darren Soto (D-FL-09) led the Florida congressional delegation in sending a bipartisan letter to House and Senate appropriators, urging them to provide relief for specialty crop insurance providers who are facing steep Administrative and Operating (A&O) costs. In 2011, a cap on the administrative and operating (A&O) expense reimbursement was established to ensure that, when the prices of crops like corn, wheat, soybeans, or cotton increase, A&O costs associated with these crops' policies do not also significantly rise. Unfortunately, specialty crops have not seen the same price increase as row crops but have been subject to the same A&O caps, resulting in steep decreases to specialty crop insurance funding. Thus, the downward pressure on specialty crop funding has made it more difficult for crop insurance providers to deliver specialty crop insurance policies to producers in Florida and elsewhere, which in turn threatens the long-term survival of our nation’s specialty crop producers The letter is a follow-up to one sent by Rep. Cammack and Rep. Soto in June of this year, and asks the House Appropriations Committee to provide relief in the FY23 Agriculture appropriations bill to ensure that specialty crop insurance policies are not tied to this A&O cap ""Florida has experienced immense hardship in the last few months, and our producers have been struggling to keep up with all the hurdles being thrown their way,"" said Rep. Cammack. ""My colleague Rep. Soto and I have been working to tackle these inefficiencies within the specialty crop industry by ensuring fair and equitable access to insurance for our farmers, and with the FY2023 Agricultural appropriations budget still underway, there is no better time than now to deliver relief to our producers who so desperately need it."" The letter earned the support of the Florida Farm Bureau (FFB), Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA), and the Crop Insurance Professionals Association (CIPA) Original signees of the letter include Reps. Cammack, Al Lawson, Bill Posey, Darren Soto, Gregory Steube, Gus Bilirakis, Maria Elvira Salazar, Michael Waltz, Neal Dunn, Scott Franklin, and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick The full text of the letter may be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-votes-against-fueling-inflation-and-eroding-2nd-amendment-rights,Bilirakis Votes Against Fueling Inflation and Eroding 2nd Amendment Rights,2022-12-09,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"After voting against this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Congressman Gus Bilirakis issued the following statement: “While there were provisions within the NDAA that I have personally championed, such as the long-overdue repeal of the Biden Administration’s unconscionable military vaccine mandate, increased pay and housing allowances for active duty military, and a condemnation of unauthorized territorial overflights of a NATO ally’s airspace, such as Turkey’s overflights of Greek airspace, other provisions in the bill prompted my no vote. Poison pills contained within the package include: increased funding for Ukraine without strong measures to ensure transparency or accountability, further erosion of Americans’ 2nd Amendment rights, and overall increased spending levels without appropriate offsets. Americans are suffering from devastating inflation and Congress cannot keep writing checks that fuel this problem. In many instances the NDAA simply didn’t go far enough. For example, to fully rectify the harm that originated from the military COVID vaccine mandate, we must correct the military records and allow re-enlistment of the 3,300 Marines, 1,800 soldiers, 1,800 sailors, and 900 airmen who were terminated simply for exercising their right to make individual healthcare decisions. Additionally, despite concerns about military readiness and staffing levels, this year’s NDAA did not address this important issue,” said Congressman Gus Bilirakis.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://gimenez.house.gov/2022/12/gim-nez-scores-win-for-homestead-air-reserve-base-south-dade-in-national-defense-authorization-act-ndaa,"GIMÉNEZ SCORES WIN FOR HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, SOUTH DADE IN NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT (NDAA)",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Carlos A. Giménez (FL-26) scored a major win for Homestead Air Reserve Base in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA, which passed today, will include a provision that would prohibit the Secretary of the Air Force from entering into an agreement that would “provide for or permit the joint use of Homestead Air Reserve Base by the Air Force and civil aircraft.” “Preserving the Homestead Air Reserve Base (HARB) for its original intent and purpose is critical to protecting our national security interests,” Giménez said. “I am encouraged that our efforts to preserve HARB were included in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and will ensure the base’s functionality and main objective as stated by law, remain as such. Allowing aircrafts not affiliated with our military or armed services to utilize an air reserve facility would only compromise our country's national security. Prohibiting the joint use of the Homestead Air Reserve Base ensures the protection of our strategic interests and protects the precious South Florida ecosystem caught in between Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park. I thank Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott for their leadership on this issue and look forward to continuing working together to deliver results for our community.” Rep. Giménez introduced The Protecting Critical Ecosystems and Military Readiness in Florida Act, earlier this year to prohibit civil aviation operations at Homestead Air Reserve Base (HARB) in Homestead, Florida. U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Rick Scott (R-FL) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. For years, Homestead Air Reserve Base (HARB) has been a central focus of special interests that wish to secure commercial passenger and cargo operations to expand the urban development boundary in southern Miami-Dade County. Those proposals have the potential to impact military readiness and diminish efforts to conserve and restore critical habitat near HARB and Biscayne Bay. The inclusion of this provision as part of the NDAA guarantees the protection of our South Dade ecosystem and ensures that Homestead Air Reserve Base (HARB) will continue to operate for its original intended purpose. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E4F6E2DF-7A21-4212-A011-2CE5E790E0EB,Webster Supports Passage of Key Defense Bill,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, released the following statement on his vote to pass H.Res. 1512, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23 NDAA), which rescinds the Covid vaccine mandate, invests in servicemembers, increases accountability and strengthens security to deter Chinese aggression. “Today, I voted in support of the FY23 NDAA, which provides our men and women in uniform with the tools, support, and financial resources necessary to protect our nation. A big win in this bill is that it rescinds the COVID-19 vaccine mandate imposed on our service members. I have opposed and fought to repeal this mandate since day one and will continue to work to restore our men and women to the positions they should have never lost. It also includes important policies to deter Chinese aggression, including prohibitions on DOD and its contractors from procuring Chinese made goods and materials as well as improved tracking of Chinese companies and universities that are working with the Chinese military. Oversight and accountability of aid provided to Ukraine is also strengthened in this bill. “The U.S. Constitution states that providing for the ‘common defense’ is one of our fundamental responsibilities. Thanks to Republican negotiators, this bill is a step in the right direction to provide our military training and resources they need to continue being the world’s finest fighting force. By reversing President Biden’s proposed budget cuts to defense spending, the NDAA strengthens our national security, affirms relations with our allies like Taiwan, and ensures the United States can effectively counter adversaries like China. Our freedom, our families, and our way of life would not exist if not for our military.” The FY23 NDAA: Provides a 4.6% pay raise for service members and other financial assistance to help offset record inflation. Includes essential provisions to help counter adversaries such as China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea. Supports key partners, such as Israel and Taiwan. Ensures oversight and accountability by requiring the DoD, State Department and USAID Inspector Generals to routinely conduct comprehensive reviews and audits of aid provided to Ukraine. Reverses cuts in President Biden’s request to combat ships and set the U.S. back on track for a 355-ship navy. Reinforces parents’ rights over the education of their children who are attending DoD schools ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/cammack-joins-rep-murphy-colleagues-annual-campus-free-speech-roundtable,"Cammack Joins Rep. Murphy, Colleagues At Annual Campus Free Speech Roundtable",2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Reps. Greg Murphy, M.D., Virginia Foxx, Kat Cammack, Burgess Owens, and Mariannette Miller-Meeks held the second annual Congressional Campus Free Speech Roundtable in the U.S. Capitol. The event brought together leaders from the Young America’s Foundation (YAF), the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE), current college students, and members of the Alumni Free Speech Alliance (AFSA) to discuss First Amendment concerns in post-secondary education. Video playback of the event can be found HERE. “Thanks to Dr. Murphy and my colleagues and other attendees for their participation this morning,” said Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL). “The issue of free speech on college campuses is one of the most important of our time, and something that should be at the forefront of lawmakers’ minds as we head into the 118th Congress. As one of the co-chairs of the Campus Free Speech Caucus, we’re taking this mission to the next level and encouraging colleagues to have the important discussions with the schools in their districts about what they’re doing to defend and protect this First Amendment Right.” “Now that the American people have entrusted Republicans with the House majority, it’s more important than ever that we make First Amendment protections a top priority,” said Rep. Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-NC). “I was proud to lead today’s roundtable event to outline free speech concerns among students, faculty, stakeholders, and alumni in higher education, and discuss how Congress can help safeguard students’ First Amendment rights on college and university campuses. The free exchange of ideas is the hallmark of a post-secondary education, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to protect the freedom of speech for generations of students to come.” “It was an honor to join Rep. Murphy for his second Campus Free Speech Roundtable and I appreciate his dedication to protecting our First Amendment rights,” said Education and Labor Committee Republican Leader Virginia Foxx (R-NC). “As a former educator, I made it a point to help students learn how to think—not what to think. Unfortunately, too many colleges and universities now care more about creating conformity of thought instead of promoting freedom of thought. However, I was encouraged to hear from the brave students and others on the frontlines of this fight and I look forward to working with these free-speech warriors in the coming Congress.” “The freedom of speech is a fundamental Constitutional right,” said Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT). “Open and intellectually stimulating dialogue in education is essential for fostering an environment where students can learn and thrive. I was proud to join my colleagues for a Campus Free Speech roundtable to hear directly from students and alumni as we work hand-in-hand to protect the First Amendment on America's college and university campuses.” ""As the principal outreach organization of the conservative movement, Young America's Foundation is proud to continue partnership with our allies in Congress in the fight for campus free speech,"" said Karalee Geis, Director of Capitol Hill Outreach (YAF). ""Hearing from YAF student activists firsthand, both past and present, was instrumental in today's conversation."" “Young America’s Foundation is grateful for the leadership of Congressman Murphy and the Campus Free Speech Caucus in defending the First Amendment rights of students nationwide,” said Raj Kannappan, Vice President (YAF). “Unless people in power hold them accountable, universities have little incentive to change their often unconstitutional behavior.” “FIRE is glad to continue to participate in this important conversation on protecting free speech and fighting back against campus censorship,” said Greg Gonzalez, Legislative Fellow (FIRE). “We thank Representative Murphy for leading the Campus Free Speech Roundtable — and for Congress's continued attention to the ongoing threats to the First Amendment at our nation's colleges and universities."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-cammacks-legislation-rename-middleburg-va-clinic-signed,Congresswoman Cammack's Legislation To Rename Middleburg VA Clinic Signed By President,2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, S.2159, the bill to rename the VA Clinic in Middleburg, Florida after Andrew Kenneth Baker, was signed into law by President Biden at the White House. After the bill passed the House and Senate earlier this fall, the president's signature was the final step before the formal designation and name change ceremony in Middleburg. ""It's an amazing day in Florida's Third Congressional District,"" said Cammack.""To have this bill across the finish line during my freshman term is a major accomplishment, and to do it in memory of Chief Baker and his service and sacrifice is truly an honor. I look forward to seeing the new name go up on the building in the new year, and to celebrate this project's completion. Thank you to Senators Rubio and Scott and all of my Florida colleagues for your support of this effort."" “I am grateful that President Biden has signed my bill to honor U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Andrew Kenneth Baker’s legacy into law. The VA clinic in Clay County provides quality care to our veterans who have dedicated their lives to service, just like Chief Petty Officer Baker,” said Senator Rubio. ""Our veterans have made countless sacrifices to defend our nation. We must do everything possible to provide them with the support and care they need. I'm proud the president signed this bill into law and that the Veterans Affairs Clinic in Clay County will pay. homage to U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Andrew Kenneth Baker,"" said Senator Scott. The clinic's new name honors Antisubmarine Warfare Chief Andrew Kenneth Baker of Middleburg, Florida who was killed during a SEAL training event when the Trident 615, an H-60 Seahawk, crashed at sea on March 13, 1997. Chief Baker served on the USS Carl Vinson and USS Coral Sea as a Ship's Serviceman and completed training in Search and Rescue Swimmer School in Pensacola and Fleet Replacement Aircrewman training at NAS Jacksonville, earning his ""Wings of Gold."" Chief Baker then reported to HS-9, serving on the USS Nimitz, then in HS-3, assigned as the Training and Operations Chief. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kat-cammack-co-leads-bipartisan-resolution-honor-women-veterans-military,Rep. Kat Cammack Co-Leads Bipartisan Resolution To Honor Women Veterans & Military Women's Memorial,2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03), in coordination with the former Bipartisan Women’s Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Brenda Lawrence (D-MI-14), introduced H. Res. 1497, a resolution recognizing the contributions of the Women in Military Service for America (Military Women’s Memorial) for its 25 years of service. The Military Women’s Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery tells the stories of more than three million women who have served the U.S. since the American Revolution and is the only historical repository to document the service of America’s military women. Each year, the Women's Caucus hosts a memorial event during the week preceding Memorial Day at the memorial, honoring those we've lost and inviting one outstanding servicewoman from each of the six military branches to be recognized for her contributions and service. event is the Women's Caucus's longest consecutive annual event, celebrating more than 20 years this decade. “I'm proud to join Rep. Lawrence in co-leading this resolution commemorating the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Military Women’s Memorial,"" said Rep. Cammack. ""As one of the vice chairs of the Congressional Women's Caucus, I’ve been proud to support and pay tribute to our female servicemembers at the memorial in Arlington National Cemetery each year around Memorial Day. To our women in uniform, a grateful nation thanks you for your service and stands with you every step of the way."" ""Our nation’s women servicemembers and veterans deserve to be seen, heard, and recognized,"" said Rep. Lawrence. ""The Memorial has exhibited an unwavering dedication to solidifying the place of women servicemembers in history. It has served as a touchstone destination for hundreds of annual Honor Flights, military ceremonies, and retirements and a gathering point for military and service organizations from across the country. I strongly urge my colleagues to rise in support of this resolution."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-religious-liberties-must-always-be-vigorously-protected,Diaz-Balart: Religious Liberties Must Always be Vigorously Protected,2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement regarding the ""Respect for Marriage Act,"" being voted on this week in the House of Representatives. ""The concept of all states respecting other states' decisions on marriage laws is deeply rooted in American jurisprudence and tradition. Similarly, our Founders understood that religious liberties are sacred and vulnerable, and must always be vigorously protected. ""My record shows that I am a long-standing advocate against discrimination of all types. I, however, cannot support any effort that undermines religious liberties by failing to provide legitimate safeguards for Faith-Based organizations that object based on their deeply-held religious beliefs. ""It is unfortunate that the Senate missed an opportunity to protect marriage equality while also guaranteeing religious freedom. After multiple efforts by my colleagues to offer amendments, Senate Democrats rejected each amendment and doubled down on a bill that fails to uphold the religious liberties which are sacred to our nation."" The Senate Amendments consisted of the following: Senator Rubio's Amendment Senator Mike Lee's Amendment Senator Lankford Amendment ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://gimenez.house.gov/2022/12/congressman-gimenez-diaz-balart-salazar-sent-a-letter-to-secretary-mayorkas-regarding-cuban-migrants,"CONGRESSMAN GIMENEZ, DIAZ-BALART, SALAZAR SENT A LETTER TO SECRETARY MAYORKAS REGARDING CUBAN MIGRANTS",2022-12-02,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representatives Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26), Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25), and Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27) sent a letter to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, once again expressing their concern regarding the apparent shift in U.S.-Cuba policy and requesting that the Administration implement a system where family members and legal representatives can find the whereabouts and information of Cuban migrants interdicted at sea. Read the complete letter here or below. ""Dear Secretary, Mayorkas, As I have expressed several times, I am profoundly concerned by the Biden Administration’s apparent shift in U.S.-Cuba policy, including the agreement with the regime in Cuba to increase repatriations of Cuban nationals to totalitarian Cuba. One unfortunate consequence of the administration’s increase in repatriations has been a corresponding increase in family members seeking information regarding their loved ones interdicted at sea. Currently, there is no efficient and timely way for family members or their legal representatives to verify their location and basic details of their cases. This is a fixable problem. The United States government has addressed this issue for individuals in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody through the Online Detainee Locator System (ODLS). ODLS is a publicly available online system that allows the public to search for persons to determine whether they are detained by ICE and if so, at which facility they are located. By making the information available in this way, family members and legal representatives are able to find basic information without draining crucial resources or manpower from already strained and overworked agencies. The administration’s apparent agreement with the Cuban regime to ramp up deportations of Cuban nationals seeking freedom has many unfortunate repercussions. At the very least, as interdictions and repatriations increase, I believe that it would be beneficial to those fleeing Cubans, their family members, and their legal representatives to have timely, accurate information on whether they have been interdicted, their location, and other basic facts of their case. For these reasons I request, within all applicable rules and regulations, that you consider implementing a system similar to ODLS for Cuban nationals interdicted at sea, or otherwise in U.S. custody through situations not currently covered by the ODLS. Thank you for your attention to this matter of utmost importance. Sincerely,""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-salazar-gimenez-envian-carta-al-secretario-mayorkas-sobre,"Díaz-Balart, Salazar, Giménez envían carta al secretario Mayorkas sobre migrantes cubanos",2022-12-02,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Los representantes Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25), Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27) y Carlos A. Giménez (FL-26) enviaron una carta al secretario del Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS, por sus siglas en inglès), Alejandro Mayorkas, expresando una vez más su preocupación por el aparente cambio en la política de Estados Unidos hacia Cuba y solicitando que la Administración implemente un sistema donde familiares y representantes legales puedan encontrar el paradero e información de migrantes cubanos interceptados en el mar. Lea la carta completa en Inglés aquí. ""Estimado Secretario Mayorkas, Como hemos expresado varias veces, estamos profundamente preocupados por el aparente cambio de la Administración Biden en la política de Estados Unidos hacia Cuba, incluido el acuerdo con el régimen en Cuba para aumentar las repatriaciones de cubanos que escapan de la dictadura. Una lamentable consecuencia del aumento de las repatriaciones por parte de la administración ha sido el aumento correspondiente de familiares que buscan información sobre sus seres queridos interceptados en el mar. Actualmente no existe una forma eficaz y oportuna para que los familiares o sus representantes legales verifiquen su ubicación y detalles básicos de sus casos. Este es un problema reparable. El gobierno de Estados Unidos ha abordado este problema para las personas bajo la custodia del Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE, por sus siglas en inglès) de EE.UU. a través del Sistema Localizador de Detenidos en Línea (ODLS, por sus siglas en inglès). ODLS es un sistema electrónico disponible públicamente que permite al público buscar personas para determinar si están detenidas por ICE y de ser así, en qué instalación se encuentran. Al hacer que la información esté disponible de esta manera, los miembros de la familia y los representantes legales pueden encontrar información básica sin agotar los cruciales recursos o la mano de obra de agencias ya sobrecargadas de trabajo. El aparente acuerdo de la administración con el régimen cubano para aumentar las deportaciones de cubanos que buscan la libertad tiene muchas repercusiones desafortunadas. Como mínimo, a medida que aumentan las interdicciones y repatriaciones, creo que sería beneficioso para los cubanos que huyen, sus seres queridos y representantes legales tener información oportuna y precisa sobre si han sido interceptados, su ubicación y otros datos básicos y hechos de su caso. Por estas razones, solicitamos dentro de todas las normas y reglamentos aplicables, que considere implementar un sistema similar al ODLS para los ciudadanos cubanos interdictos en el mar o bajo custodia en EE.UU., que actualmente no están cubiertas por el ODLS. Gracias por su atención a este asunto de gran importancia. Cordialmente,"" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-salazar-gimenez-sent-letter-secretary-mayorkas-regarding,"Diaz-Balart, Salazar, Gimenez Sent a Letter to Secretary Mayorkas Regarding Cuban Migrants",2022-12-02,2022,2022-12,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 (FL-25), Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27), and Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) sent a letter to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, once again expressing their concern regarding the apparent shift in U.S.-Cuba policy and requesting that the Administration implement a system where family members and legal representatives can find the whereabouts and information of Cuban migrants interdicted at sea. Read the complete letter here or below. ""Dear Secretary Mayorkas, As I have expressed several times, I am profoundly concerned by the Biden Administration’s apparent shift in U.S.-Cuba policy, including the agreement with the regime in Cuba to increase repatriations of Cuban nationals to totalitarian Cuba. One unfortunate consequence of the administration’s increase in repatriations has been a corresponding increase in family members seeking information regarding their loved ones interdicted at sea. Currently, there is no efficient and timely way for family members or their legal representatives to verify their location and basic details of their cases. This is a fixable problem. The United States government has addressed this issue for individuals in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody through the Online Detainee Locator System (ODLS). ODLS is a publicly available online system that allows the public to search for persons to determine whether they are detained by ICE and if so, at which facility they are located. By making the information available in this way, family members and legal representatives are able to find basic information without draining crucial resources or manpower from already strained and overworked agencies. The administration’s apparent agreement with the Cuban regime to ramp up deportations of Cuban nationals seeking freedom has many unfortunate repercussions. At the very least, as interdictions and repatriations increase, I believe that it would be beneficial to those fleeing Cubans, their family members, and their legal representatives to have timely, accurate information on whether they have been interdicted, their location, and other basic facts of their case. For these reasons I request, within all applicable rules and regulations, that you consider implementing a system similar to ODLS for Cuban nationals interdicted at sea, or otherwise in U.S. custody through situations not currently covered by the ODLS. Thank you for your attention to this matter of utmost importance. Sincerely,"" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-murphy-introduce-bipartisan-red-snapper-act,"Rutherford, Murphy Introduce Bipartisan Red Snapper Act",2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,FL,John H. Rutherford,R000609,rutherford.house.gov,rutherford,https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman John Rutherford (FL-04), Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy (FL-07), and 14 of their colleagues introduced H.R. 9373, the Red Snapper Act. This bipartisan legislation would prevent the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) from implementing area closures in the South Atlantic until the South Atlantic Great Red Snapper Count study is complete and the findings are integrated into the fishery's stock assessment. Recreational fishing in Florida is a major economic driver that produced $9.2 billion in economic output and supported 88,501 jobs in 2020. Over the last 10 years, the South Atlantic fishing community has worked hard to rebuild the red snapper stock. However, due to a lack of good data, seasons remain short and fail to reflect the real number of red snapper in the region. To fix this, Congress appropriated $5.1 million over the last three years to fund the South Atlantic Great Red Snapper Count, which will deliver reliable data on abundance, genomics, and mortality and improve access to red snapper fishing for anglers. Earlier this year, NOAA proposed closures for all bottom fishing in the South Atlantic in an effort to decrease the red snapper caught outside of the two-day recreational season. While the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council ultimately rejected NOAA's proposal, the threat of future closures persists. The Red Snapper Act would prevent NOAA from making future sweeping management decisions until the ongoing South Atlantic Great Red Snapper Count is complete. ""For too long, Florida's anglers have been forced to put up with bad science and short red snapper seasons. The sweeping closures proposed by NOAA would have devastated our economy right here in Northeast Florida,"" said Rep. Rutherford. ""Our bipartisan Red Snapper Act will stop NOAA from closing fisheries and force them to use better data. Florida anglers deserve dependable access to red snapper fishing now and for years to come."" ""Fishing is not only a key part of the Florida way of life, but it is also essential for the survival of our coastal economies and the small businesses that depend on robust fishing seasons,"" said Rep. Stephanie Murphy. ""I was proud to spearhead the Great Red Snapper Count, along with Congressman Rutherford, to get a more accurate picture of the number of fish in the South Atlantic, but proposed closures from NOAA could threaten access to bottom fishing before the study is complete. With this new legislation, we are pushing back to ensure our fisheries are not shut down and that NOAA uses the best data available moving forward."" The Red Snapper Act is supported by 14 original cosponsors, including: Reps. Ted Budd (NC-13), Greg Murphy (NC-03), Austin Scott (GA-08), Mike Waltz (FL-06), Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25), Garret Graves (LA-06), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Nancy Mace (SC-01), Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27), Neal Dunn (FL-02), Brian Mast (FL-18), Jeff Duncan (SC-03), Richard Hudson (NC-08), and Daniel Webster (FL-11). The Red Snapper Act has also been endorsed by the Center for Sportfishing Policy, the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation, the Coastal Conservation Association, and the American Sportsfishing Association (ASA): ""Before moving forward with drastic measures like area closures, the results of the South Atlantic Great Red Snapper Count should be considered and incorporated into the next stock assessment to ensure management decisions are based on the best science and fishing communities are not harmed unnecessarily,"" said Martha Guyas, ASA Southeast Fisheries Policy Director. ""We applaud Congressman Rutherford for his leadership on South Atlantic red snapper and for introducing this commonsense bill."" Read the full bill text here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-leads-colleagues-in-demanding-transparency-from-us-naval-academy-on-denial-of-diplomas-to-unvaccinated-midshipmen/,Rep. Steube Leads Colleagues in Demanding Transparency from U.S. Naval Academy on Denial of Diplomas to Unvaccinated Midshipmen,2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Steube Leads Colleagues in Demanding Transparency from U.S. Naval Academy on Denial of Diplomas to Unvaccinated Midshipmen WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) led with seven of his colleagues in demanding transparency from the U.S. Naval Academy on the denial of diplomas to unvaccinated Midshipmen. In a letter to Vice Admiral Sean S. Buck, Superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy, the members demanded answers regarding the U.S. Naval Academy denying Midshipmen from graduating and asked for an explanation on their authority or ability to influence the approval of Midshipmen religious exemption requests relating to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. “Denying diplomas to otherwise qualified Midshipmen based solely on COVID-19 vaccination status would not only be a waste of our country’s four-year investment in Midshipmen who are eager to serve our nation, but could disrupt military readiness in a year that every branch had trouble recruiting. The U.S. Naval Academy must provide full transparency of their process to deny diplomas due to the absurd COVID-19 vaccination mandate, including details of cases where Midshipmen’s religious exemption requests were also denied,” said U.S. Rep. Greg Steube. The following members of the U.S. House joined Rep. Steube in demanding answers from the U.S. Naval Academy: Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.), Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.), Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), Michael Waltz (R-Fla.), Scott Franklin (R-Fla.), Ronny Jackson (R-Texas). Read the letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cammack-meets-university-florida-agriculture-scientists-discuss-how,Rep. Cammack Meets With University of Florida Agriculture Scientists To Discuss How Research Supports Global Food Security & Nutrition,2022-11-28,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GAINESVILLE, FL – Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack met with agricultural scientists at the University of Florida and leaders from Farm Journal Foundation to discuss how public support for agricultural research and development (R&D) can help alleviate global hunger and malnutrition. The event, which included a tour of agricultural research facilities at the university and a roundtable discussion, highlighted how innovations can strengthen global food supply chains, prevent animal disease outbreaks, and enable farmers to increase production with fewer resources. Today, the global food system is under significant pressure from challenges including the conflict in Ukraine, the COVID-19 pandemic, and extreme weather events. However, new technologies and practices generated from agricultural R&D can help make food systems more resilient, driving efforts to increase production of healthy foods, preserve natural resources, and enable farmers to adapt to different weather patterns. “Food security is national security, which is why it’s so important to work together in support of necessary sustainable and innovative solutions to the problems our food supply chains face,” said Rep. Cammack. “Our farmers, ranchers, and producers work tirelessly to feed our nation and the world, and I’m grateful to the University of Florida and its Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) for their critical investments into research and development on these fronts. We’re always looking for better ways to best support the folks who feed, clothe, and fuel our country, and I’m grateful to the Farm Journal Foundation and the University of Florida for making today’s event possible.” “UF/IFAS continues to innovate the way to increase food production globally with less environmental impact,” said Scott Angle, UF’s senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources and leader of UF/IFAS. “That challenge is getting steeper, but so is the UF/IFAS commitment with the recent launch of our Global Food Systems Institute and our historic investment in artificial intelligence to revolutionize agriculture. Our solutions to the challenges of producing food in a subtropical/tropical climate make our science directly applicable in large regions of the world that face food insecurity. At the same time, what we learn abroad helps Florida farmers and ranchers.” Agricultural research has one of the highest returns of any public investment, returning on average $20 in benefits for every $1 invested. Agricultural research undertaken in the public sector, such as that being conducted at the University of Florida, has an important role to play in strengthening global food security. While private sector research investments have had a significant impact, particularly on yields for large commodity crops such as corn and soybeans, the public sector can support early stage research to pave the way for significant long-term innovations. Public investment can also support comparatively underexplored areas such as animal health, environmental, and food safety research, and unlock innovations for smallholder farmers overseas, helping developing countries feed themselves. “Agricultural research investments are absolutely vital, especially as we look toward a future with rising global food demand – including demand for nutritious animal-sourced foods – and increasing pressure on natural resources,” said Katie Lee, Vice President of Government Affairs at Farm Journal Foundation. “Agricultural innovations benefit farmers and consumers both in the U.S. and abroad, helping to sustainably increase production and ensure that there will continue to be enough safe, affordable, and nutritious food for everyone.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-announces-veteran-history-project-interview-featuring-army-veteran-bob-ruybal/,Rep. Steube Announces Veteran History Project Interview Featuring Army Veteran Bob Ruybal,2022-11-18,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Steube Announces Veteran History Project Interview Featuring Army Veteran Bob Ruybal Click here to view the interview. NORTH PORT, Fla. — Congressman Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced a new interview in the Veterans History Project Series – a way to feature the accomplishments and military careers of Florida’s 17th District veterans. This interview features U.S. Army Veteran, Bob Ruybal of North Port, Florida. “America is grateful to all of our veterans for their service. Personal accounts like Specialist 5 Ruybal’s prove the strength of America during difficult times of conflict. America will always be a beacon of liberty. We thank Specialist 5 Ruybal for fighting to secure our cherished freedoms,” said Congressman Greg Steube. “The military taught me a tremendous amount. It made me a better man,” Specialist 5 Bob Ruybal said. “I believe everybody should serve their country and learn respect and the chain of command…There is so much to learn and so much to know. The service has changed my life for the better.” Please click here to watch the interview. Be sure to check Congressman Steube’s YouTube channel in the future for upcoming interviews. The Office of Congressman Greg Steube will submit the interview to the Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans. Initially started in 2000, the Veterans History Project aims to collect, preserve, and make accessible the personal accounts of the United States military veterans and Gold Star Families so that future generations may hear directly from the veterans and better understand their service. Researchers, scholars, and educators rely upon VHP collections as a primary source. The oral histories, photographs, manuscripts, and other original materials supplement historical texts and valued cultural resources. Veterans from all branches and ranks of the United States military who served in World War I through the more recent conflicts are eligible to participate. For more information on the VHP, please visit https://www.loc.gov/vets/.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-schakowsky-applaud-house-passage-bill-protecting-consumers,"Bilirakis & Schakowsky Applaud House Passage of Bill Protecting Consumers from Counterfeit, Stolen Products Online",2022-11-17,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Ranking Member and Chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, are celebrating the House passage of their bill, the Integrity, Notification, and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces for Consumers (INFORM Consumers) Act, which directs online marketplaces to verify the identity of high-volume third-party sellers of consumer products. Requiring authentication of the identity of these online sellers will help deter organized retail crime rings who seek to sell stolen or counterfeit goods online. The bill will also benefit consumers by providing them with basic identification and contact information for the high-volume third-party sellers. ""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 Gus Bilirakis. ""This bill is a win-win for consumers and legitimate businesses in the online marketplace."" “For too long, criminals have raked in profits by selling dangerous, counterfeit, and stolen products online. Consumers deserve to shop with the peace of mind that they get what they pay for. Today, we took a stand for consumers and said enough is enough,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “The INFORM Consumers Act, which I introduced with my friend Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), passed the House with bipartisan support, and will protect consumers and legitimate businesses by holding online marketplaces accountable. We must protect Americans online. I urge the Senate to swiftly pass this bill.” Along with the rise in popularity of online marketplaces like Amazon, Facebook, and eBay, there has been an increase of stolen, counterfeit, and dangerous consumer products offered for sale online to consumers. Currently, it is relatively easy for third-party sellers to go onto an online marketplace, create an account, sell high volumes of illicit goods to unwitting consumers, and then shut down the account and disappear before facing any accountability. The INFORM Consumers Act would require online marketplaces to verify the identity of their high-volume third-party sellers of consumer products by obtaining and verifying information including the seller’s name, tax ID, bank account information, and contact information. The bill would also direct online marketplaces to ensure that consumers have sufficient information so they can identify and contact a high-volume third-party seller who has sold them consumer products. The online marketplace would also have to provide a way for customers to report to the marketplace suspicious marketplace activity such as the selling of stolen or counterfeit goods. Supporters of the INFORM Consumers Act include: the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Manufacturers, AFL-CIO, the Fraternal Order of Police, Consumer groups including Consumer Reports and U.S. PIRG, the Buy Safe America Coalition (which includes the Retail Industry Leaders Association, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores, the Toy Association, the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributers, the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, the International Council of Shopping Centers, the American Apparel & Footwear Association, The Home Depot, Walgreens, 3M, CVS Health, Nordstrom, Ulta Beauty, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Gap Inc., HP, Levi Strauss & Co., Phillips, Rite Aid, and more), the Coalition to Protect America’s Small Sellers, including eBay, Etsy, Poshmark, Pinterest, OfferUp, Redbubble, and more. The American people have made it clear that they want basic protections online, now it is the Senate’s turn to deliver.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/11/tcjapa100,More Than 100 Members of Congress Cosponsor Buchanan Tax Cut Bill,2022-11-14,2022,2022-11,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 legislation to make permanent Republican tax cuts has received the support from more than 100 members of Congress and several leading conservative and business organizations. In September, Buchanan introduced the TCJA Permanency Act, legislation to make permanent 23 different tax cuts for individuals, families and small businesses originally enacted as part of the 2017 Republican tax law. “Inflation is a tax on all Americans, pure and simple. Under President Biden’s cruel economy, inflation is still raging at a 40-year high and Americans are paying the price in the form of increased costs on everything from gas to groceries,” said Buchanan. ""The last thing families and Main Street businesses need are more tax hikes, which is exactly what will happen unless Congress takes action to make these tax cuts permanent.” According to the Tax Foundation, “most taxpayers will see a tax hike unless some or all provisions are extended.” In fact, according to its initial estimates, a single mother of two earning $52,000 would face a $1,500 tax hike in 2026. For a married couple with two children and $85,000 in income, the additional tax bill would be over $1,700 per year. Cosponsors of Buchanan’s bill include House Republican Whip Steve Scalise, Republican Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik, Ways and Means Republican Leader Kevin Brady, House Freedom Caucus Chairman Scott Perry, Republican Study Committee Chairman Jim Banks, Republican Governance Group Chairman David Joyce and 99 other members of the House Republican conference. The TCJA Permanency Act has also received the support of Americans for Tax Reform, America First Policy Institute, the National Federation of Independent Businesses, Heritage Action, the National Association of Manufacturers, the S-Corp Association, the National Taxpayers Union (NTU) and the American Farm Bureau Federation. Grover Norquist, founder and president of Americans for Tax Reform said, “This bill makes it clear that protecting the pro-growth tax cuts passed in 2017 remains a top priority for Republicans when they take back Congress… The TCJA Permanency Act will help right the ship and get the American economy growing again.” Brooke Rollins, president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, said, “By incentivizing Americans to work, save, and invest, TCJA delivered non-inflationary economic growth benefitting all Americans. AFPI applauds Congressman Vern Buchanan for introducing legislation to extend TCJA fully and permanently. . . This legislation is a key America First priority in the 118th Congress, and we are committed to working with Congressman Buchanan to get this bill across the finish line.” Kevin Kuhlman, vice president of federal government relations of the National Federation of Independent Businesses, said, “After the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the NFIB Small Business Optimism Index soared, providing the highest reading in the survey’s then 45-year history. Small business owners utilized tax savings to expand business operations and increase employee compensation. Unfortunately, the bulk of this tax relief – especially the Small Business Deduction and the lowered individual rates – is scheduled to expire after 2025. As a result, small business owners are heading for substantial tax increases without Congressional action. NFIB thanks Rep. Buchanan for introducing the TCJA Permanency Act, H.R. 8913, making this critical tax relief permanent.” Chris Netram, managing vice president, tax and domestic economic policy, of the National Association of Manufacturers, said, “After the passage of tax reform, there was a surge in hiring, investment and wage growth in the manufacturing sector. More than 98% of manufacturers are small and medium businesses, many of which are organized as pass-through entities. Making permanent the lower rates and pass-through deduction from tax reform will give manufacturers around the country the certainty they need to continue to drive our economy forward.” Brian Reardon, president of the S Corp Association, said, “Over the past year, tens of millions of Main Street businesses have been living under the threat of the largest tax hikes in our nation’s history. Now more than ever, American employers need certainty from Washington. By making permanent several tax provisions relied upon by the Main Street business community, the TCJA Permanency Act provides that certainty, and helps ensure these employers have the tools they need to reinvest in their employees and their communities.” Brandon Arnold, executive vice president of NTU, said, “The TCJA Permanency Act, introduced by Rep. Vern Buchanan with the strong backing of a host of GOP leaders, would ensure that American families and small businesses do not experience a huge tax hike in coming years. NTU is proud to support this important bill and hopes that this will be the centerpiece of a comprehensive approach to improving our tax code, balancing the federal budget, and making it easier for American taxpayers to thrive.” Buchanan has led five of the six Ways and Means Subcommittees, including as Chairman of the Tax Policy Subcommittee where he oversaw the successful and smooth implementation of the largest overhaul of our tax code in more than 30 years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kat-cammacks-legislation-rename-middleburg-va-clinic-ak-baker-va,"Congresswoman Kat Cammack's Legislation To Rename Middleburg VA Clinic ""A.K. Baker VA Clinic"" Passes U.S. House Of Representatives",2022-11-14,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, S.2159, the bill to rename the VA Clinic in Middleburg, Florida after Andrew Kenneth Baker, unanimously passed the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill passed the Senate earlier this year, and the legislation now heads to President Biden's desk for a signature before the clinic's name will be formally changed. ""It is so special to see this bill across the finish line during the 117th Congress,"" said Cammack. ""I worked on this project during my time as Deputy Chief of Staff for the district, and to see it finally pass both chambers and head to the president's desk is an honor. I've come to know Ms. Tina Baker, Andrew's widow, over the last decade, and it's surreal to soon see her husband's name in huge letters on the front of the building in Middleburg. His distinguished legacy will live on in the community that was such a huge part of who he was. Thank you to Senators Rubio and Scott and all of my Florida colleagues for your support of this effort."" The clinic's new name honors Antisubmarine Warfare Chief Andrew Kenneth Baker of Middleburg, Florida who was killed during a SEAL training event when the Trident 615, an H-60 Seahawk, crashed at sea on March 13, 1997. The House version of the bill—H.R. 1960—honors Chief Baker's birth year and his decorated career. Chief Baker served on the USS Carl Vinson and USS Coral Sea as a Ship's Serviceman and completed training in Search and Rescue Swimmer School in Pensacola and Fleet Replacement Aircrewman training at NAS Jacksonville, earning his ""Wings of Gold."" Chief Baker then reported to HS-9, serving on the USS Nimitz, then in HS-3, assigned as the Training and Operations Chief. ""Honoring U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Andrew Kenneth Baker’s legacy of bravery and service to our country is the right thing to do,"" said Senator Rubio. ""The new VA clinic in Clay County provides quality care to our veterans who have dedicated their lives to serve, just like Chief Petty Officer Baker."" ""Our veterans make countless sacrifices to defend our nation. We must do everything possible to provide them with the support and care they need. I'm proud that this legislation honoring the legacy of U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Andrew Kenneth Baker has passed the House and is now headed to the president's desk,"" said Senator Scott. ""The clinic is a tremendous beacon for our veterans' community, offering lab work, primary care, telehealth services, and mental health counseling,"" Cammack added. ""I can think of no better way to honor Chief Baker and his family than to ensure he will always be remembered."" At home in Middleburg, Chief Baker was an avid fisherman, scouring the waters of Black Creek and the St. Johns as much as he could. He coached his son's little league baseball team and served as troop leader for the local Cub Scouts. He was a devoted husband to his wife Tina and to sons Andrew K Baker II and Jacob Baker. The link to the congresswoman's remarks on the House Floor are available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/a-veterans-day-message-from-us-representative-greg-steube/,A Veterans Day Message from U.S. Representative Greg Steube,2022-11-11,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"A Veterans Day Message from U.S. Representative Greg Steube Watch the full video message here SARASOTA, Fla. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today released the following statement in honor of Veterans Day. “I’d like to take a moment to thank all the men and women who raised their right hand and took an oath to defend our country. On Veterans Day each year, I think first and foremost of those I served alongside of in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It was an incredible honor and opportunity to serve our country as the U.S. worked to counter the threat of terrorism around the world. Veterans are at the forefront of my work in Congress and I’ll never stop working on behalf of those who served our great nation. Please take a moment today to say thank you to all the veterans in your life. Our country is a beacon of freedom and liberty. We owe that to the men and women who voluntarily put their lives on hold for the betterment of our country.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-greg-steube-announces-us-service-academy-nominations/,Rep. Greg Steube Announces U.S. Service Academy Nominations,2022-11-10,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Greg Steube Announces U.S. Service Academy Nominations SARASOTA, Fla. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced the nomination of seventeen students in Florida’s 17th Congressional District to the U.S. Service Academies: the U.S. Military Academy (USMA) in West Point, NY, the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, MD, the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, CO, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, NY. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) in New London, CT, is the fifth service academy and does not require a congressional nomination. “One of my highest honors as a Member of Congress is nominating students from Florida’s 17th Congressional District to our U.S. Service Academies. Today, I’m nominating seventeen talented students who will represent our district well should they be selected to serve our country in this way,” said U.S. Representative Greg Steube. Charlotte County Brian O’Leary, Jesuit High School — USNA and USMA Carl Rambo, Charlotte High School and South Florida State College — USMA, USAFA and USMMA Sarasota County Gabriel Dickerson, Lemon Bay High School — USNA, USAFA and USMMA Blake Lagerholm, North Port High School — USAFA Galen Crusan, Venice High School — USMA Kai Cameron, Venice High School — USMA and USAFA Darwin Hale, Pine View High School — USNA Dominic Deniro, Venice High School — USNA and USMA Joshua Castro, Sarasota Military Academy — USNA and USAFA Locklann Fourquine, Venice High School — USNA, USMA, USAFA and USMMA Hardee County John Cornell, Hardee High School — USMA Polk County Ashlyn Schober, IB at Bartow High School and Virginia Polytechnical Institute — USAFA and USNA Elliott Chamberland, Bartow High School — USMMA and USNA Mycah Armes, IB at Bartow High School — USNA, USAFA and USMMA Highlands County Alex Musselman, Avon Park High School and South Florida State College — USNA and USMA Isabelle Viollette, Avon Park High School — USAFA Coral Covert, Avon Park High School — USNA and USAFA You can learn more about the Service Academy nomination process here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-greg-steube-announces-fema-approval-of-debris-removal-in-sarasota-county-mobile-home-parks/,Rep. Greg Steube Announces FEMA Approval of Debris Removal in Sarasota County Mobile Home Parks,2022-11-06,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Greg Steube Announces FEMA Approval of Debris Removal in Sarasota County Mobile Home Parks SARASOTA, Fla. – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved Sarasota County’s request for removal of debris from commercial mobile home or manufactured housing parks as a result of Hurricane Ian. “After advocacy from the county and my office, I’m pleased that FEMA recognized the serious challenges Sarasota County is facing as they work to remove a great volume of debris from Hurricane Ian on commercial properties. The approval of several policy waivers will have a big impact in helping our mobile home communities recover from the hurricane,” said Rep. Greg Steube. “My office stands ready to advocate to FEMA for requests made by any municipality or county in Florida’s 17th Congressional District.” Six mobile home parks in Sarasota County are now approved for debris removal: Alameda Isles Mobile Home Park Lazy River Mobile Home Park Polynesian Mobile Home Park Harbor Isles Mobile Home Park Harbor Cove Mobile Home Park La Casa Mobile Home Park The remaining mobile home parks and other commercial properties requested for debris removal by Sarasota County will be inspected and eligibility determined.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-mario-diaz-balart-honors-fl-25-veterans-0,Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart Honors FL-25 Veterans,2022-11-04,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"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.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-leads-local-sheriffs-arizona-border-visit-discuss-how-fentanyl,Bilirakis Leads Local Sheriffs in Arizona Border Visit to Discuss How Fentanyl Crisis is Impacting Communities throughout Florida,2022-11-02,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Mariposa Port of Entry, Arizona: U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis led a delegation of members from the Florida Sheriff’s Association and other local enforcement officials on a tour of the border in Arizona this week. The Congressman was joined by Hernando County Sheriff and Florida Sheriff’s Association President Al Nienhuis, Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper, Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast, Major Phil Kapusta from the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, and Colonel Justin Ferrara from the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office. During this week’s visit, the group heard directly from the DEA, Customs and Border Protection Services, U.S. Border Patrol Agents, and border county sheriffs about how fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are being trafficked across the border and fueling the addiction crisis plaguing the country. More than 107,000 Americans died of a drug overdose during the past year, with Florida ranking 2nd in the nation in opioid-related deaths. Fentanyl overdose is now the number one cause of death in the nation for individuals ages 18 to 45. Law enforcement officials also report that most of the synthetic opioids found on streets throughout the country have been manufactured in China and then trafficked across unsecured areas along the southern border. The exact amount of fentanyl and related substances that have been trafficked into our country is impossible to precisely pinpoint, but law enforcement officials have seen a dramatic spike in the amount seized and report only being able to stop a fraction of the true amount flowing in due to limited resources. “From speaking with those on the front lines at the border, it is clear that the crisis is worsening by the day and that our brave men and women who are trying to keep our country safe have not been given the manpower, equipment and other resources needed to do their jobs effectively. They are overwhelmed and need immediate assistance. The dangerous situation at the border has enriched and emboldened criminal cartels and fueled record fentanyl overdoses throughout the country. As part of our commitment to ensuring a country that is safe, we must first properly fund all levels of law enforcement. Congress must also pass the HALT Fentanyl Act to ensure fentanyl and its related analogues are permanently listed as a Schedule 1 substance. In addition to stopping the supply for these illegal substances, we must also provide resources to reduce the demand side of the equation- focusing on education, prevention and ensuring access to quality behavioral health treatment. It is obvious that the drugs trafficked through do not remain in border states, like Arizona. There is an intricate and elaborate delivery system in place to quickly transport these deadly drugs to communities throughout the country; in effect making every state a border state. It will take a collaborative approach to truly turn the tides in the epidemic that is ravaging communities, like ours,” said Congressman Bilirakis. Fentanyl is highly addictive and inexpensive to produce, leading criminal drug networks to increasingly mix it with other illicit drugs—in powder and pill form—in an effort to drive addiction and attract repeat buyers. Often, the user is unaware that they are taking a product laced with a lethal substance. The DEA has determined that just 2 milligrams of fentanyl is considered a lethal dose. In 2021 alone, DEA seized enough fentanyl to provide a lethal dose to every American, 7 times over.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/11/buchanan-calls-permanent-tax-cuts-individuals-small-businesses-latest-op,"Buchanan Calls for Permanent Tax Cuts for Individuals, Small Businesses in Latest Op-Ed",2022-11-02,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Vern Buchanan today penned an op-ed in Townhall highlighting his legislation to permanently lock-in low taxes for individuals and small businesses originally enacted as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2017. “The radical left wants to keep taxes high to fuel the Washington spending machine,” said Buchanan in the op-ed. “They oppose my bill to let people keep more of their own hard-earned money. If we do nothing, taxes for families and small businesses will go up in 2026. These are not new, immediate tax cuts. Rather, the TCJA Permanency Act assures families and small businesses that we will not raise their taxes amid 40-year high inflation and a recession.” You can read the full op-ed here or below. The Republican Plan to Stop Democrats' Looming Tax Hikes By Rep. Vern Buchanan President Biden’s incompetent handling of the economy has produced historic levels of inflation, including high food prices, unaffordable housing and soaring energy costs. Rising prices are outpacing wage growth, forcing many people to take on second jobs and tap their retirement savings. Democrats’ reckless multi-trillion-dollar, deficit-financed Washington spending spree has fueled inflation and harmed families. Americans need help. Republicans have a strong record of bringing relief to American families and businesses. In 2017, we passed the most comprehensive overhaul of our tax code in more than three decades. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) reduced taxes on middle-class families and small businesses nationwide and created nearly five million jobs in two years. It also delivered the lowest unemployment rate in 50 years, all-time low unemployment for African American and Hispanic workers and the fastest wage growth in a decade. House Republicans are ready to build upon that success. Under the leadership of Kevin McCarthy, we recently unveiled our “Commitment to America,” which includes a plan to reverse the economic misery caused by Democrats and get our country back on track. This plan fights inflation, lowers the cost of living, creates good-paying jobs and brings stability to the economy through pro-growth tax policies. It’s the kind of certainty Americans need and deserve now more than ever. As part of this effort, I recently introduced the TCJA Permanency Act, a bill that makes permanent many of the key provisions of the historic 2017 tax reform measure that are scheduled to expire after 2025. Most importantly, the TCJA Permanency Act keeps in place today’s tax rates for individuals and families and preserves the 20 percent deduction for small businesses. Together, these provisions ensure that taxes won’t go up for middle-class Americans – allowing people to keep more of their hard-earned money. If we fail to pass my bill, the Child Tax Credit would be cut in half in 2026. This bill also locks in the higher standard deduction, which increases the amount of tax-free income a middle-class family can earn while simplifying the tax filing process for 9 out of 10 Americans. Notably, this bill reflects the depth and breadth of the Republican commitment to American families and small businesses. More than 80 of my colleagues have joined me in cosponsoring this important legislation, which builds upon many different individual provisions they have championed. The radical left wants to keep taxes high to fuel the Washington spending machine. They oppose my bill to let people keep more of their own hard-earned money. If we do nothing, taxes for families and small businesses will go up in 2026. These are not new, immediate tax cuts. Rather, the TCJA Permanency Act assures families and small businesses that we will not raise their taxes amid 40-year high inflation and a recession. For families already struggling to get by thanks to Bidenflation, it means not having to worry about looming tax hikes. According to the Tax Foundation, a single mom of two earning $52,000 a year would face a $1,500 tax increase and a married couple with two children and $85,000 in income, would be hit with an additional $1,700 in taxes if these provisions expire. For small businesses, the TCJA Permanency Act provides the tax certainty needed to make costly investments in items with long productive lives, like equipment and machinery. That will help tame inflation by giving manufacturers the ability to increase production to meet soaring demand. Outside experts agree on the need for this legislation. Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform, has endorsed the TCJA Permanency Act saying, “This bill makes it clear that protecting the pro-growth tax cuts passed in 2017 remains a top priority for Republicans when they take back Congress… The TCJA Permanency Act will help right the ship and get the American economy growing again.” Democrat inflation is hurting Americans. The TCJA Permanency Act is a real, tangible plan to restore economic sanity for millions of families and small businesses across the country. As my colleague House Ways and Means Committee Republican Leader Kevin Brady (TX) recently said, this legislation will “lock in low taxes for families and small businesses struggling with record inflation.” That’s a much-needed change from the disastrous policies of the last two years. Vern Buchanan represents Florida’s 16th District in the United States House of Representatives and is the co-chairman of the bipartisan Florida delegation. Buchanan is second in seniority on the Ways and Means Committee, where he serves as the lead Republican of the Health Subcommittee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://gimenez.house.gov/2022/11/congressman-gimenez-golden-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-reauthorize-essential-firefighter-programs-and-help-struggling-local-fire-departments,"Congressman Gimenez, Golden Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Reauthorize Essential Firefighter Programs and Help Struggling Local Fire Departments",2022-11-02,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressmen Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Jared Golden (D-ME), Dan Kildee (D-MI), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) announced today the introduction of the Fire Grants and Safety Act, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and increase federal resources for local fire departments across the nation. The legislation would boost critical federal funds for local fire departments to address staffing shortages, purchase new equipment, and improve training and emergency services. Fire departments in rural areas are experiencing significant losses in staffing and slowing interest in the volunteer fire fighting work that is critical to smaller communities. In 2021, Monroe County was awarded over $5.6 million through the grants to assist in the hiring of firefighters. In 2021-2022, Miami-Dade County was awarded over $2.3 million for operations and safety. “As a former firefighter and Chief of the City of Miami Fire Rescue Department, I know firsthand how crucial these vital programs and resources are to adequately prepare firefighters to respond to emergencies and protect our communities,” said Congressman Gimenez. “In the past, both Monroe County and Miami-Dade County have benefited immensely from such initiatives. In Congress, it is our responsibility to support firemen as they make every effort to keep communities in South Florida and across the country safe.” The Fire Grants and Safety Act would reauthorize funding for three key initiatives: the United States Fire Administration (USFA), the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program. Since 2021, Maine fire departments have been awarded over $4 million in SAFER grants to assist in hiring new staff and more than $14 million in AFG grants. Without Congressional intervention, all three programs are set to expire starting in 2023 – endangering future recruitment, training, retention, and outfitting efforts. The bill is companion legislation to a bipartisan bill introduced in the Senate by Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Rob Portman (R-OH). “The Mainers who make up our fire departments put their lives on the line to protect their neighbors,” said Congressman Golden. “The federal government has a responsibility to ensure they have what they need to do their job and do it well. Increasing access to these resources – especially at a time of staff shortages throughout Maine – is just common sense. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to help advance this funding for departments in the Second District and across the country.” “Our fire fighters keep us safe, and we must ensure they have the resources necessary to protect our communities,” said Congressman Kildee. “That’s why I’m working with Republicans and Democrats to provide critical federal funding for local fire departments. This bipartisan legislation will support mid-Michigan fire departments and fire fighters so they can be ready when our community needs them.” “Communities across our country rely on local fire departments to keep residents safe in the event of a life-threatening crisis,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “I am proud to co-lead bipartisan legislation that will support volunteer fire departments and assist with volunteer recruitment and retention.” Advocates and members of the national and Maine firefighting community voiced their support for the bill: “I thank Representatives Golden and Gimenez for introducing the Fire Grants and Safety Act,” said Chief Donna Black, the President, and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. “This bill is a companion to Senate legislation, which we hope will pass this year. The Assistance to Firefighters and SAFER grant programs provide peer-reviewed matching grants directly to local fire departments. They help fund critical training, equipment, and staffing to ensure the safety of our fire and EMS personnel and our citizens. The bill also would authorize more funding for the U.S. Fire Administration, empowering it to better serve the needs of local fire chiefs.” “The IAFF is grateful to Representatives Golden, Kildee, Gimenez, and Fitzpatrick for introducing the Fire Grants and Safety Act, legislation that would reauthorize the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, and the United States Fire Administration (USFA),” said International Association of Fire Fighters General President Edward Kelly. “These programs are vital to ensuring fire departments are fully staffed by trained and equipped fire fighters to respond to any emergency that threatens our communities. Studies and our own experiences have proven that proper staffing levels are key to safe and effective emergency responses. ""The IAFF also applauds these members of Congress for advancing legislation that would strengthen the USFA’s role in educating the fire service and gathering the data we need to better protect our communities. The IAFF urges Congress to pass this critical legislation at the first opportunity.” “NFPA is pleased to support the bipartisan efforts to reauthorize the U.S. Fire Administration as well as the AFG and SAFER grant programs that are so critical to first responders across our country,” said Jim Pauley, President and CEO of the National Fire Protection Association. “Many fire departments across the State of Maine and our Nation are struggling to maintain basic response capabilities,” wrote Darrell White, President of the Maine Fire Chiefs Association, in a letter of support. “This program has been extremely beneficial to many communities here in Maine who have received grants for much needed equipment, apparatus, staffing and training that would not have been possible without the AFG funding.” “These grants are critical to public safety agencies across the country,” said Darren Woods Director of the Aroostook County Emergency Management and Fire Chief of the North Lakes Fire and Rescue. “These programs have done a lot of good in ensuring that public safety officials have the proper equipment to protect citizens at the community level across the United States.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/help-local-dentists-bilirakis-arranges-free-dental-treatment-veterans-need,"With the Help of Local Dentists, Bilirakis Arranges Free Dental Treatment for Veterans in Need as Part of Veterans Day Tribute",2022-11-01,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"New Port Richey: The office of Congressman Gus Bilirakis, Pasco-Hernando State College, and the West Pasco Dental Association are once again partnering to provide free dental services to Veterans in need at this year’s Stars, Stripes, and Smiles event, which will take place at Pasco Hernando State College on November 4th. As part of this exciting initiative, dentists within the community will provide urgent dental care to military Veterans living in Tampa Bay who have been suffering with untreated dental pain and infection- all at no cost to Veterans. Participating Veterans must have an appointment and can register by calling Congressman Bilirakis's office at 727-232-2921. Oral health is an integral part of overall well-being and a vital component of preventative medicine. When left untreated, dental infection often exacerbates underlying health conditions and can increase the cost of care. However, dental care through the VA is currently limited to those Veterans who are 100% disabled or have a direct service-connected injury impacting their oral health. “Veterans have sacrificed so much to defend our freedom and they deserve access to high quality health care, including dental treatment. I have filed legislation, the VET CARE Act, which would expand Veterans' access to dental care. However, I am very grateful for the generosity of the dentists from the West Pasco Dental Association who are not waiting for a change in law. They are ensuring our heroes receive immediate care, and I am honored to help organize this important event again this year,"" stated Congressman Gus Bilirakis. Services offered through this special event will include: professional dental cleanings, tooth extractions and dental fillings. ""These heroes deserve a system of care to ensure their oral health care needs are met. Until that can become a reality, it is our professional privilege to serve this special segment of our community,"" said Dr. Zacharias Kalarickal of the West Pasco Dental Association. Event information is below. The press is welcome to attend. For additional information, please contact Summer Blevins at Summer.Blevins@mail.house.govor visit https://www.usaveteransmiles.org/",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/fema-disaster-recovery-center-opens-putnam-county,FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens In Putnam County,2022-10-27,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GAINESVILLE, FL — Today, the State of Florida and FEMA have opened an additional Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Putnam County, Florida. The center is located at the Putnam County Fairgrounds (117 Yelvington Road, East Palatka, FL 32131) and will be open from 8am to 7pm daily. Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applications, and learn about other resources available. It is not necessary to visit a center to apply. Survivors can go to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, or call 800-621-3362. The line is available each day from 7am to 11pm ET. In addition to the centers, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are canvassing neighborhoods in areas impacted by Hurricane Ian to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and answer questions about federal assistance. DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service. FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs. For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov/disaster/4673. The Office of Congresswoman Kat Cammack remains available to assist constituents of Florida's Third Congressional District with recovery efforts. The Orange Park office (904-276-9626) and Gainesville office (352-505-0838) stand ready to help. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/10/taxcutspermanentroundtable,Buchanan Bill Featured in Ways & Means GOP Roundtable,2022-10-25,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Vern Buchanan today participated in a Ways and Means Republican roundtable focused on extending key elements of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). Last month, Buchanan introduced the TCJA Permanency Act, legislation to make permanent 23 different tax cuts for individuals and small businesses originally enacted as part of the 2017 Republican tax law. “Republicans delivered the most comprehensive overhaul of the U.S. tax code in more than three decades and helped our country achieve historic economic growth. We delivered significant tax relief for low and middle-income families and small businesses across all income levels,” said Buchanan during the roundtable. “Today, as we look forward to the strong probability of an upcoming recession, there is new urgency to preserve these pro-growth policies.” The TCJA Permanency Act has garnered the support of several of the nation’s leading conservative economic policy organizations and has attracted 70 cosponsors since introduction. CEO of Reynolds Services, Inc., John Frangakis, served as the witness for today’s roundtable and said, “We are very concerned about the effects of raising taxes, or even letting provisions of this act dwindle or expire could have, not only our market, but on the economy in general.” Expanding on TCJA’s benefits for small businesses, Frangakis also said, “From my perspective some of the greatest benefits of this legislation ... are the effects it has on the growth of jobs, enhancing productivity and increasing paychecks for our employees.” Ways and Means Republican Leader Kevin Brady has endorsed Buchanan’s bill, saying, “Making the historic Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent will lock in low taxes for families and small businesses struggling with record inflation, and create certainty for the pro-growth provisions that leapfrogged America to the most competitive economy in the world.” Initial estimates from the nonpartisan Tax Foundation show that a single mother of two earning $52,000 would face a $1,500 tax hike in 2026. For a married couple with two children and $85,000 in income, the additional tax bill would be over $1,700 per year. Buchanan’s full remarks as prepared are below: “Thank you, Leader Brady and Mr. Kelly, for hosting this important roundtable today. I was pleased to be able to work so closely with you and many of our colleagues here today to help pass the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act back in 2017. “In doing so, Republicans delivered the most comprehensive overhaul of the U.S. tax code in more than three decades and helped our country achieve historic economic growth. We delivered significant tax relief for low and middle-income families and small businesses across all income levels. “Today, as we look forward to the strong probability of an upcoming recession, there is new urgency to preserve these pro-growth policies. At the end of this year, 100 percent expensing will begin to phase out—a huge hit to industries like farming and manufacturing at a time when they need capital the most. I’d like to highlight Rep. Jodey Arrington’s ALIGN Act, which would make expensing permanent. “Further, without Congressional action, 23 different provisions of TCJA are set to expire after 2025, imposing significant tax hikes on middle-income families and Main Street businesses across the country “In fact, according to initial estimates from the nonpartisan Tax Foundation, a single mother of two earning $52,000 would face a $1,500 tax hike and a married couple with two children and $85,000 in income would face a $1,700 tax hike in 2026 if we allowed these important provisions to expire. “That’s income that isn’t going towards everyday staples like food, diapers, or school supplies. “That’s why I introduced the TCJA Permanency Act to make the individual and small business tax cuts permanent. “I was pleased to be joined by Leader Brady, RSC Chairman Jim Banks, Freedom Caucus Chairman Scott Perry and Republican Governance Group chairman Dave Joyce as original cosponsors, as well as over 60 of my other colleagues, including many of you here today, as cosponsors. “I’ve also introduced the American Innovation Act to assist our entrepreneurs. This bill would quadruple the amounts small business start-ups can deduct from their tax bill, lowering the barrier-to-entry and driving capital formation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kat-cammack-presents-purple-heart-national-defense-service-medal-formal,"Rep. Kat Cammack Presents Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Formal Honors To Korean War Veteran",2022-10-25,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GAINESVILLE, FL — Yesterday, Congresswoman Kat Cammack presented Mr. James Lewis Wilkerson of Lawtey, Florida with recovered medals earned during his service in the Korean War. Mr. Wilkerson received the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal with four bronze stars, the combat infantryman badge, and the United Nations Service Medal. He also received a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of his service and sacrifice while surrounded by his friends and family in a formal ceremony. Wilkerson, now 93 years old, enlisted in the U.S. Army on January 11, 1951. After basic training, he deployed to Korea where he was wounded in action on August 6, 1951. He was released from active duty in 1953 after recovering from injuries he sustained in Korea. The Purple Heart is a distinct honor presented to U.S. service members who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. Military. ""It's an honor and a privilege to present Mr. Wilkerson with the medals he earned during his distinguished service in the Forgotten War in Korea,"" said Rep. Cammack. ""He earned each and every one of his distinctions and I'm so proud that our office could help him and his family recover his service medals after all these years. Our team works hard on behalf of our heroes and I'm grateful for their work to make this long overdue ceremony possible."" Wilkerson shared a few words with the attendees of the ceremony, noting how special the day was to him as he reflected on his lifetime of service following his time in Korea. The full ceremony is available here with more photos here. The office assists veterans with claims of all kinds, including recovering service records and decorations, filing claims with the VA, VA disability evaluations, and more. Contact the Gainesville office at 352-505-0838 or visit cammack.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cammack-joins-sen-rubio-florida-delegation-letter-calling-navy-provide,"Rep. Cammack Joins Sen. Rubio, Florida Delegation In Letter Calling On Navy To Provide Timely Records For Retiring Sailors In Florida",2022-10-24,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) joined Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) in sending a letter to Secretary of the U.S. Navy Carlos Del Toro regarding sailors retiring in Florida struggling to access hard-earned benefits due to unjustified U.S. Navy paperwork delays. The letter states, “Sailors should be able to count on consistent payment and timely benefits. While the Navy has stated that operations to consolidate personnel for efficiency may have caused the delays, the practical outcome is delayed receipt of a key document and associated benefits that are building blocks for sailors establishing a new foundation for life after active duty...Failing to live up to the government’s end of the bargain on taking care of service members also exacerbates the existing recruitment crisis the Navy and other branches are facing.” Original signees of the letter include U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (FL) and U.S. Representatives Kat Cammack (FL), Bill Posey (FL), Brian Mast (FL), Carlos Giménez (FL), Greg Steube (FL), Gus Bilirakis (FL), John Rutherford (FL), María Elvira Salazar (FL), Mario Díaz-Balart (FL), Mike Waltz (FL), Neal Dunn (FL), and Scott Franklin (FL).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-salazar-gimenez-expresan-preocupacion-por-aparente-cambios,"Díaz-Balart, Salazar, Giménez expresan preocupación por aparente cambios en la política de Estados Unidos hacia Cuba",2022-10-24,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Los representantes Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25), Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27) y Carlos A. Giménez (FL-26) enviaron una carta hoy a la Administración Biden expresando preocupaciones y solicitando respuestas a una serie de preguntas sobre el aparente cambio de la Administración en la política de Estados Unidos hacia el régimen en Cuba. En la carta, los representantes solicitan aclaraciones sobre el anuncio de la Administración Biden de enviar ayuda humanitaria a Cuba tras el paso del huracán Ian y qué está haciendo la administración para asegurar que esta ayuda no caiga en manos del régimen de Cuba. Igualmente, los representantes expresaron su preocupación por la reciente decisión de la Administración Biden de iniciar vuelos mensuales para repatriar a cubanos que escapan de la dictadura Cubana. Lea la carta completa en Inglés aquí.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-salazar-gimenez-express-concern-regarding-shift-us-cuba,"Diaz-Balart, Salazar, Gimenez Express Concern Regarding Shift in U.S.-Cuba Policy",2022-10-24,2022,2022-10,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 (FL-25), Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27), and Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) sent a letter to the Biden Administration expressing concerns, and requesting answers to a series of questions regarding the Administration's seeming shift in U.S. policy toward the regime in Cuba. Read the complete letter here or below. ""Dear Secretaries Blinken and Mayorkas, We write to express our concerns regarding recent decisions that indicate marked shifts in U.S.-Cuba policy, and to respectfully request, within all applicable rules and regulations, information to specific questions pertaining to these decisions. On October 18, 2022, the State Department and USAID announced “$2 million in humanitarian assistance to support shelter needs for the most vulnerable communities who have been affected by the devastating impacts of Hurricane Ian in Cuba,” to be funded from the International Disaster Assistance (IDA) account. According to the announcement, the “humanitarian assistance will be delivered directly to the Cuban people – not through the Cuban government – through trusted, independent organizations operating in the country with a long presence in hurricane-affected communities.” The justification cited for providing this aid was attributed to Hurricane Ian damaging “an estimated 68,370 homes, of which 15,705 have completely or partially collapsed, and another 17,866 have completely lost their roofs. Additionally, the hurricane damaged or destroyed an estimated 9,000 hectares of crops in Artemisa, decreasing already limited food supplies.” Additionally, USAID stated that 43 sets of “firefighting equipment” were provided to a training station in Havana, and an additional 57 sets will be delivered at an unspecified date. According to reports, the Matanzas fire, the disaster for which IDA-funded firefighting equipment was provided, was extinguished by August 9, 2022. USAID explained that the IDA-funded firefighting equipment would replenish supplies that were damaged in combating the Matanzas fire, as none of it would be delivered in time to address that disaster. In the meantime, we are deeply troubled that the Biden Administration has informed us that it will begin immediately returning Cuban nationals who escaped totalitarian Cuba, and that it is initiating monthly flights for the purpose. This decision seems to be a reversal from President Biden’s statement a month ago, that “there are fewer and fewer immigrants coming from Central America than from Mexico. It’s a totally different circumstance… What's on my watch now is Venezuela, Cuba and Nicaragua, and the ability to send them back to those states is not rational.” The Cuban people endure severe oppression and egregious human rights abuses. Hundreds of activists, including children, remain imprisoned for daring to speak out against the regime. Certainly the situation in Cuba has not improved in the intervening month since the President’s comment, especially in the wake of the devastation from Hurricane Ian that prompted the announcement of $2 million in humanitarian aid. In fact, returning Cuban nationals to Cuba at this time would seem to be even less “rational” today. The malignant nature of the Cuban dictatorship has not changed in sixty years. Accordingly, we are concerned that the announced aid will benefit the Cuban dictatorship, which for decades has stolen from the Cuban people and deprived them of their most basic needs. As President Biden said last year in regard to money sent to Cubans from abroad, ""It is highly likely that the regime would confiscate those remittances or a big chunk of it."" We are concerned that this assistance, even if well intentioned, will serve to prop up a brutal dictatorship that will use U.S. taxpayer dollars to further imprison, censor, and oppress the Cuban people. We have no doubt that the regime will attempt to use these resources to tighten its grip on power, and we hope that you have significant and thorough safeguards in place to ensure that does not happen. Given our concerns, and these shifts in U.S. policy toward the regime in Cuba and the Cuban people, we respectfully request answers to the following questions: How will the U.S. government ensure that taxpayer dollars, used for the donated firefighting equipment and the $2 million in humanitarian aid, will benefit the Cuban people and not the regime? What was the cost to the U.S. taxpayer of the 100 sets of firefighting equipment to be given to the Cuban regime? Does the Biden Administration have plans to further replenish the regime’s supplies for future emergencies? What measures were taken to ensure that the firefighter assistance will not benefit the Cuban military, as firefighting stations often are under the direction and supervision of the Cuban military? Given that the firefighting equipment was delivered after the Matanzas fire was extinguished, and to a different region, to replenish the Cuban regime’s firefighting supplies, was it appropriately provided as “disaster” assistance pursuant to the rules governing IDA? What are the terms of the agreement with the Cuban regime to provide firefighting equipment? Under what conditions will the remaining 57 equipment sets be delivered? USAID informed us that IDA assistance was used in response to Hurricane Gustav in 2008. How was the $1.6 million in humanitarian aid used? What NGOs implemented the funding? What NGOs will implement the $2 million in humanitarian assistance in 2022? Do they have experience in Cuba? Do they have experience in totalitarian dictatorships with closed economies? Do they have experience adhering to U.S. law pertaining to sanctions on Cuba, in addition to working in a designated state sponsor of terrorism? What are the terms of the agreement with the Cuban regime in providing the $2 million in humanitarian assistance? How will the U.S. government monitor the delivery of aid to ensure that it helps the Cuban people, and does not end up benefitting the regime or sold in military-run stores as has happened in the past? (For a recent example, see They denounce sale in MLC stores of alleged products donated by Mexico | Cuba DNA (adncuba.com).) How is the U.S. government determining the most urgent needs on the island? Is it relying on independent sources, press reports, or direct observation? Or is it determining needs on the island based on the regime’s requests and data that it provides to the U.S.? What factors will be considered in determining whether to provide further assistance? Has the Cuban dictatorship requested additional assistance? Has the United States received anything in exchange? Will the vessels carrying humanitarian donations be subject to the regime’s landing fees, or port taxes? In migration talks earlier this year, which party(s) requested the repatriation of Cuban nationals to totalitarian Cuba? How will the U.S. government monitor repatriated Cubans who might face retribution, as required under the Migration Accords? How is it more “rational” today to return Cubans to oppression and human rights abuses of totalitarian Cuba, in the wake of Hurricane Ian’s devastation, than it was one month ago? Why are Cuban nationals who are attempting to enter the U.S. being provided with I-220a forms, potentially depriving them of a status that would allow them to adjust under the Cuban Adjustment Act? Thank you for your attention to this matter of utmost importance, and we look forward to your response. Sincerely,""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6343A787-34CB-45A5-AE67-6AA5467199F1,Rep. Webster and Colleagues Condemn President Biden for Draining Our Strategic Petroleum Reserve,2022-10-24,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, along Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX) and 29 other members introduced a resolution condemning President Biden’s irresponsible withdrawal or petroleum products from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). The Energy Policy and Conservative Act of 1975 was enacted on December 22, 1975, creating the SPR to respond to the global oil crisis. There have only been three emergency drawdowns from the SPR in its history—during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and, in coordination with the International Energy Agency, responding to instability in the Middle East and North Africa in 2011. President Biden has drained more than a third of the U.S. SPR to help quell gas prices. “Energy independence is a national security issue,” said Rep. Webster. “Rather than embrace American energy production, Biden chose to put our national security at risk by further tapping into the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). This Administration must reverse course, replenish the SPR, and stop blocking U.S. energy production.” “We are 639 days into Joe Biden's disastrous presidency, and it has been an all-out assault against American energy,"" said Rep. Randy Weber. “One of the most alarming offensives is Biden's abuse of America’s invaluable Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). This resolution calls for President Biden to halt the sale of petroleum products from the SPR and to begin replenishing this critical emergency resource immediately. This is no longer about reducing gas prices for political gain; now he’s recklessly gutting our energy defense."" Cosponsored by Reps. David Valadao (CA-21), Chip Roy (TX-21), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Brian Babin (TX-36), Bill Posey (FL-08), Michael Burgess (TX-26), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Tony Gonzales (TX-23), Mayra Flores (TX-34), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Yvette Herrell (NM-02), Steve Chabot (OH-1), Mary Miller (IL-15), Tom McClintock (CA-04), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Drew Ferguson (GA-03), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Louie Gohmert (TX-01), Julia Letlow (LA-05), Roger Williams (TX-25), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Buddy Carter (GA-1), August Pfluger (TX-11), Madison Cawthorn (NC-11), Van Taylor (TX-03) and Troy Nehls (TX-22). Read the bill here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-gottheimer-urge-senate-vote-bipartisan-invest-protect-act,"Rutherford, Gottheimer Urge Senate Vote on Bipartisan Invest to Protect Act",2022-10-21,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,John H. Rutherford,R000609,rutherford.house.gov,rutherford,https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Representatives John Rutherford (FL-04) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) sent a letter to Senate leaders requesting their House-passed Invest to Protect Act be brought to the Senate floor for a vote when the Senate reconvenes in November. This bipartisan bill creates a grant program for small local law enforcement agencies that will help them recruit and retain the finest officers, expand training, and invest in mental health resources. Last month, the Invest to Protect Act passed the House with the bipartisan support of 153 Republicans and 207 Democrats. ""Nearly every Democrat and more than 150 Republicans came together to vote our legislation out of the House to ensure small law enforcement agencies across the United States have access to the tools and resources they need,"" the bill sponsors wrote in a letter to Senate leaders. ""This vital legislation was developed through many conversations with Republicans and Democrats in both chambers, and with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including the Congressional Black Caucus, National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), and the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). We urge you to take swift action on this matter by bringing the Invest to Protect Act to the Senate floor for a vote next month so that the President can sign this bipartisan bill into law immediately."" Full text of the letter can be found here and below: Dear Majority Leader Schumer and Minority Leader McConnell: Last month, the House of Representatives passed the Invest to Protect Act with sweeping bipartisan support. Nearly every Democrat and more than 150 Republicans came together to vote our legislation out of the House, to ensure small law enforcement agencies across the United States have access to the tools and resources they need. We request that you bring the Invest to Protect Act to the Senate floor for a vote as soon as possible in November. The Invest to Protect Act will make critical, targeted investments in small and midsize police departments with fewer than 125 sworn officers - which make up more than 96% of all local police departments nationwide. This legislation will invest in recruitment, retention, officer safety and de-escalation training, education, and mental health resources, giving officers the tools they need to keep themselves and our communities safe. This vital legislation was developed through many conversations with Republicans and Democrats in both chambers, and with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including the Congressional Black Caucus, National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), and the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). Across our country, we have seen a rise in crime. This is also at a time when it is harder than ever to hire, recruit, and retain officers. We must ensure that our local police departments have what they need to recruit and retain the finest officers, to provide necessary training, and to invest in providing mental health resources for our officers. We urge you to take swift action on this matter by bringing the Invest to Protect Act to the Senate floor for a vote next month so that the President can sign this bipartisan bill into law immediately. Sincerely, John Rutherford, Member of Congress Josh Gottheimer, Member of Congress ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/10/cvc2022,Buchanan Honors Six Local Veterans with Congressional Commendation,2022-10-20,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"BRADENTON, Fla. – In an awards ceremony last night at the Manatee Players Theatre, Congressman Vern Buchanan honored the recipients of his inaugural Congressional Veteran Commendation. Buchanan established the awards to honor the wartime sacrifices and peacetime community involvement of veterans residing in Florida's 16th Congressional District. “I established these awards to recognize our local heroes that have valiantly served both our country in uniform and our community,” said Buchanan. “While we will never be able to fully repay the honorees for their selfless sacrifices, I hope the Congressional Veteran Commendation helps express how grateful our community truly is for their service.” An independent panel of veterans reviewed nominations and chose the following six veterans for their wartime and post-military service: Edward J. Mahoney of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Marine Corp during World War II John V. Skeen of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Army during World War II John J. Brill of Longboat Key who served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War Richard J. Petrucci of Lakewood Ranch who served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War Richard M. Swier of Sarasota who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War David W. Daily of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Army during the Gulf War [[{""fid"":""1424"",""view_mode"":""default"",""fields"":{""format"":""default"",""field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]"":false},""link_text"":null,""type"":""media"",""field_deltas"":{""2"":{""format"":""default"",""field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]"":false}},""attributes"":{""class"":""media-element file-default"",""data-delta"":""2""}}]] Florida’s 16th Congressional District is home to over 70,000 veterans. Buchanan has a strong record of fighting for veterans and military families. Last year, a Buchanan measure to reduce military training accidents following the death of Bradenton soldier Nicolas Panipinto was enacted into law. Buchanan also re-introduced the Veterans Overmedication and Suicide Prevention Act, which requires the VA to study the link between addictive opioids and the alarmingly high rate of suicides among veterans, and the Veterans Eligible to Transfer School (VETS) Credit Act, which helps student veterans by ensuring they are able to quickly and easily transfer their course credits to another institution should their school close or program end suddenly. The VETS Credit Act was passed by the U.S. House with broad bipartisan support earlier this year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cammack-joins-sen-rubio-florida-delegation-bipartisan-letter-urging,"Rep. Cammack Joins Sen. Rubio, Florida Delegation In Bipartisan Letter Urging Commerce Dept. To Declare Disaster In Response To Hurricane Ian",2022-10-19,2022,2022-10,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 joined Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott and members of the Florida congressional delegation in sending a bipartisan letter to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in support of the State of Florida’s request to declare a federal fishery resource disaster. This would provide assistance to fishing and seafood businesses that have been disrupted and/or destroyed by the storm. Florida’s iconic fisheries are foundational to the economy and way of life in many of the communities that have been devastated by Hurricane Ian. A timely and robust response by the Department of Commerce through the declaration of a fishery disaster in support of Florida’s fishing industries is required to help these communities recover. Original signees of the letter include U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (FL) and Rick Scott (FL), and U.S. Representatives Kat Cammack (FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Brian Mast (R-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Carlos Giménez (R-FL), Daniel Webster (R-FL), Darren Soto (D-FL), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Greg Steube (R-FL), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), John Rutherford (R-FL), Kathy Castor (D-FL), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL), Matt Gaetz (R-FL), Michael Waltz (R-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Stephanie Murphy (D-FL), Val Demings (D-FL), and Vern Buchanan (R-FL).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cammack-joins-sen-rubio-florida-delegation-bipartisan-letter-urging-usda,"Rep. Cammack Joins Sen. Rubio, Florida Delegation In Bipartisan Letter Urging USDA To Declare Disaster For Florida Agriculture",2022-10-19,2022,2022-10,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 joined Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott and members of the Florida congressional delegation in sending a bipartisan letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack in support of the State of Florida’s request to declare a Disaster for Florida counties that were impacted by Hurricane Ian, and to make assistance available to growers whose crops were damaged or destroyed. Florida’s growers have a unique role in the American food economy, as Florida is one of the only locations in the United States where major agricultural production can occur in the winter and spring months. In order to support the growers who were affected by Hurricane Ian, and to ensure that they can recover from losses and continue their important service of feeding America, the expeditious approval of a disaster declaration is warranted and necessary in order to have a successful winter and spring harvest season. Rep. Cammack, Rep. Franklin, and Senator Rubio toured the damage to Florida's citrus crop with Florida Citrus Mutual following the hurricane. Original signees of the letter include U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (FL) and Rick Scott (FL), and U.S. Representatives Kat Cammack (FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Brian Mast (R-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Darren Soto (D-FL), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Greg Steube (R-FL), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Lois Frankel (D-FL), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL), Matt Gaetz (R-FL), Michael Waltz (R-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), Val Demings (D-FL), and Vern Buchanan (R-FL).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cammack-joins-sen-rubio-scott-rep-waltz-letter-urging-congressional,"Rep. Cammack Joins Sen. Rubio, Scott, Rep. Waltz In Letter Urging Congressional Leadership To Protect Florida’s Waters & Gulf Test Range",2022-10-19,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, Rep. Kat Cammack joined Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott, and Rep. Michael Waltz in sending a letter to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), urging them to prohibit energy exploration and the development east of the Military Mission Line in the upcoming Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Florida’s Gulf Test Range, located in the Gulf of Mexico, is one of the United States military’s most important testing and training areas. The area has been protected by various policies and regulations since 1983, and Congress codified protections in 2006, but Democrats want to change that. Buried in their $749 billion reckless climate and tax bill was a provision to strip previous protections and open the door to the construction of offshore wind turbines in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico. Original signees of the letter include U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (FL) and Rick Scott (FL), and U.S. Representatives Kat Cammack (FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Brian Mast (R-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Carlos Giménez (R-FL), Daniel Webster (R-FL), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), John Rutherford (R-FL), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Mario Díaz Balart (R-FL), Matt Gaetz (R-FL), Michael Waltz (FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), and Scott Franklin (R-FL).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-applauds-861716-collier-countys-homeless-assistance,"Diaz-Balart Applauds $861,716 for Collier County's Homeless Assistance Programs",2022-10-19,2022,2022-10,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 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)'s decision to grant Collier County $861,716 in Emergency Solutions Grants–Disaster Recovery. This authority was given to HUD through the 2020 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Bill. ""I am thrilled that HUD is allocating $861,716 in HUD Emergency Solutions Grants–Disaster Recovery (ESG-DR) to support homeless providers in Collier County as our community continues to recover from Hurricane Ian. ""In 2020, I fought for and supported granting HUD the additional authority to make available Homeless Assistance Grants for ESG-DR, to ensure states and localities have the resources they need following a natural disaster. This marks the first time that HUD is using this additional authority to offer such funds. This grant will significantly benefit individuals and families in Collier County whose needs may not be fully met by FEMA or other Federal disaster relief programs. ""I look forward to the positive impact this grant will have on our community, and I will ensure FL-25 continues to have and obtain adequate resources for hurricane mitigation and recovery."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=959D77EC-CD91-4792-B6B1-670930F96719,"Rep. Webster Joins Senator Rubio, Florida Delegation in Urging Commerce Department to Declare Disaster in Response to Hurricane Ian",2022-10-19,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, joined U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Rick Scott (R-FL) and members of the Florida congressional delegation in sending a bipartisan letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in support of the State of Florida’s request to declare a federal fishery resource disaster. This would provide assistance to fishing and seafood businesses that have been disrupted and/or destroyed by the storm. “Florida’s iconic fisheries are foundational to the economy and way of life in many of the communities that have been devasted by Hurricane Ian. A timely and robust response by the Department of Commerce through the declaration of a fishery disaster in support of Florida’s fishing industries is required to help these communities recover,” the members wrote. U.S. Representatives Kat Cammack (R-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL), John Rutherford (R-FL), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Mike Waltz (R-FL), Matt Gaetz (R-FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Stephanie Murphy (D-FL), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Brian Mast (R-FL), Val Demings (D-FL), Darren Soto (D-FL), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Carlos Giménez (R-FL), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Greg Steube (R-FL), and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) also signed the letter. The full text of the letter is below. Dear Secretary Raimondo: We write to express our support for the State of Florida’s request for the declaration of a federal fishery resource disaster in response to the severe impacts of Hurricane Ian. We respectfully urge you to expeditiously consider the State of Florida’s request, and approve the disbursal of disaster assistance to fishing and seafood businesses that have been disrupted and/or destroyed by the storm. On October 15, 2022, the State of Florida submitted a request to the U.S. Department of Commerce to declare a federal fishery resource disaster pursuant to the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation Act and the Interjurisdictional Fisheries Act, including clauses to initiate support from the Economic Development Administration, to support fishery businesses in response to Hurricane Ian. As noted in the initial request, Florida’s recreational fishing industry has an annual $9.2 billion economic impact, and commercial fisheries produce seafood totaling $244 million in dockside value. Florida’s iconic fisheries are foundational to the economy and way of life in many of the communities that have been devastated by Hurricane Ian. A timely and robust response by the Department of Commerce through the declaration of a fishery disaster in support of Florida’s fishing industries is required to help these communities recover. We urge you to approve the declaration without delay. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=292A4375-860E-4EC6-BA90-A6B00F506FF4,Webster and Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Ensure Taxpayers Dollars Cannot Fund Sexually Explicit Material for Children,2022-10-18,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, along with House Republican Conference Vice Chairman Mike Johnson (R-LA) and over 30 Republican Members of Congress to introduce legislation that prohibits federal, state, local governments, and private organizations from using federal tax dollars to expose children under 10 to sexually explicit material. “It is the role of parents, not schools or taxpayer funded organizations to decide when their children are ready to be introduced to these topics,” said Rep. Webster. This commonsense legislation will empower parents and ensure that taxpayer dollars are not funding programs that deliberately expose children under 10 years of age to sexually explicit material.” “The Democrat Party and their cultural allies are on a misguided crusade to immerse young children in sexual imagery and radical gender ideology,” Rep. Johnson said. “This commonsense bill is straightforward. No federal tax dollars should go to any federal, state, or local government agencies, or private organizations that intentionally expose children under 10 years of age to sexually-oriented material.” Background on the legislation: The Stop the Sexualization of Children Act of 2022 prohibits the use of federal funds to develop, implement, facilitate, or fund any sexually-oriented program, event, or literature for children under the age of 10. The bill prohibits federal funds from being used to host or promote events where adults dance salaciously or strip for children. “Sexually-oriented” is defined as any depiction, description, or simulation of sexual activity, any lewd or lascivious depiction or description of human genitals, or any topic involving sexual orientation, gender identity, gender dysphoria, or related subjects. Planned Parenthood, for example, is encouraging legislatures and school boards around the country to implement sexual education curricula that teaches radical gender theory to children under 10. Children should be learning about reading, writing, and mathematics, not radical gender theory. Federal grants from the Department of Health and Human Services were recently used to fund an event in Alaska where a drag queen performed for children. The Department of Defense is funding drag shows for families on military bases and incorporating radical gender ideology into curricula at DOD schools. HHS and DOD funding should be used to keep our country healthy and safe, not to stage burlesque shows for children. The legislation allows parents to file a lawsuit against any public or private entity that uses federal dollars to expose their young children to sexually explicit materials or programs. Any organization that violates the law more than once in a five-year period, would lose access to federal funds for three years. Cosponsored by Representatives Bob Good (VA), Brian Babin (TX), Jeff Duncan (SC), Vicky Hartzler (MO), Doug Lamborn (CO), Markwayne Mullin (OK), Lauren Boebert (CO), Gregory Steube (FL), Debbie Lesko (AZ), Ralph Norman (SC), Randy Weber (TX), Van Taylor (TX), Mary Miller (IL), Lance Gooden (TX), Louie Gohmert (TX), Glenn Grothman (WI), William Timmons (SC), Clay Higgins (LA), Steve Womack (AR), Tracey Mann (KS), John Joyce (PA), Scott Franklin (FL), Burgess Owens (UT), Matt Rosendale (MT), Russ Fulcher (ID), Tom Tiffany (WI), Nicole Malliotakis (NY), Doug LaMalfa (CA), Andrew Clyde (GA), Michael Guest (MS), and Dan Bishop (NC). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=9D24D790-6219-4F7E-B151-279C0B0E2CFD,Webster and Colleagues Urge Congressional Leadership to Protect Florida’s Waters,2022-10-18,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, joined U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Rick Scott (R-FL) and U.S. Representative Mike Waltz (R-FL) in urging Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) to prohibit energy exploration and development east of the Military Mission Line in the upcoming Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Florida’s Gulf Test Range, located in the Gulf of Mexico, is a vital testing and training area for the United States Military. The Gulf Test Range has been protected by policies and regulations since 1983, with Congress codifying protections in 2006. “We write with the gravest possible concern about the national security implications of allowing offshore energy leasing and development east of the Military Mission Line in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico (EGOM),” the lawmakers wrote. “In 2020, President Trump extended the protections for the Gulf Test Range…, providing certainty that the range would continue to serve U.S. national security needs. Unfortunately, the Inflation Reduction Act stripped that protection and opens the door to offshore wind development in the Gulf Test Range.” U.S. Representatives Scott Franklin (R-FL), Matt Gaetz (R-FL), Brian Mast (R-FL), Carlos Giménez (R-FL), John Rutherford (R-FL), Mario Díaz Balart (R-FL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), and Kat Cammack (R-FL) also signed the letter. The full text of the letter is below. Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Republican Leader McConnell, Speaker Pelosi, and Minority Leader McCarthy: We write with the gravest possible concern about the national security implications of allowing offshore energy leasing and development east of the Military Mission Line in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico (EGOM). In 2006, Congress passed the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) which prohibited oil and gas exploration and development, among other places, east of the Military Mission Line in the EGOM. In 2020, President Trump extended the protections for the Gulf Test Range by using his authority under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to withdraw the submerged lands of the test range from consideration for energy leasing or development, providing certainty that the range would continue to serve U.S. national security needs. Unfortunately, the Inflation Reduction Act stripped that protection and opens the door to offshore wind development in the Gulf Test Range. Energy development in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico would catastrophically jeopardize the Gulf Test Range, which is crucial to our readiness for a fight in the Indo-Pacific. According to a report required by the Fiscal Year 2018 National Defense Authorization Act: The eastern Gulf of Mexico is an irreplaceable national asset… the unique capabilities present in the region have been developed over decades through the investment of billions of taxpayer dollars and countless hours of effort by federal, state, and private organizations and local citizens. No other area in the world provides the U.S. military with ready access to a highly instrumented, network-connected, surrogate environment for military operations in the… Indo-Pacific Theater. … No other area offers the DoD a comparable combination of air space, water space, and existing infrastructure to support military activities. In discussions with experts in the Air Force on what allowing wind development in the Gulf Test Range would do to our testing capabilities, one individual stated that this was a “break-glass-in-case-of-emergency situation.” The immediate and long-lasting national security impact of allowing exploration and development of wind energy inside the Gulf Test Range demands immediate Congressional action to protect the Gulf Test Range. We must reinstate the moratorium on energy leasing and development east of the Military Mission Line in the Gulf of Mexico. As such, we introduced legislation and will seek to include language to protect our military asset in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act. We urge you to join us in protecting the critical capabilities the Gulf Test Range provides. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-named-legislator-year-his-support-veterans,Bilirakis Named Legislator of Year for His Support of Veterans,2022-10-14,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC: This week, Congressman Gus Bilirakis was honored to be one of four federal lawmakers to receive the inaugural Legislator of the Year award from the Wounded Warrior Program for his tireless advocacy on behalf of the nation’s most severely injured Veterans. “This wonderful organization does a tremendous job advocating for our nation’s heroes who have already sacrificed so much for our country and with providing direct support to those in need, said Bilirakis. “I have had the great honor of employing three wounded warrior fellows in my Congressional office and the experience has been outstanding for my team, my constituents, and I believe for the fellows themselves. In fact, I am currently seeking to hire another Veteran who has recently separated from the military. Congressman Bilirakis is currently partnering with the Wounded Warrior Program in support of his Major Richard Star Act which would remedy the injustice of concurrent receipt for more than 50k medically retired Veterans. “We are optimistic that our tireless efforts, which have yielded more than 319 co-sponsors, will catapult the bill across the finish line by the end of the year. I think our chances of getting the bill in the Senate version of the National Defense Authorization Act look very promising. You can be assured that I won’t stop fighting until this issue is fixed for all Veterans. Continued advocacy on behalf of our nation’s heroes will always be my top priority in Congress,” added Bilirakis.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/10/tfanalysistcjapa,New Analysis: Middle Class Will Face Major Tax Hikes if Republican Tax Cuts Expire,2022-10-12,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – New data from the nonpartisan Tax Foundation highlights the need for the passage of Congressman Buchanan’s TCJA Permanency Act, legislation to make permanent tax cuts for individuals and small businesses originally enacted as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. Initial estimates from the nonpartisan Tax Foundation show that a single mother of two earning $52,000 would face a $1,500 tax hike in 2026. For a married couple with two children and $85,000 in income, the additional tax bill would be over $1,700 per year. “This startling new information from the Tax Foundation makes crystal clear the need to permanently lock in these low tax rates,” said Buchanan. “As American families and businesses across the country are struggling to make ends meet in Biden’s cruel economy, the last thing they need is a looming tax hike.” Earlier this month, Buchanan’s bill was endorsed by Grover Norquist’s Americans for Tax Reform. Norquist praised Buchanan’s legislation, saying “This bill makes it clear that protecting the pro-growth tax cuts passed in 2017 remains a top priority for Republicans when they take back Congress… The TCJA Permanency Act will help right the ship and get the American economy growing again.” Without Congressional action, 23 different provisions of the 2017 Republican tax law are set to expire after 2025. Specifically, Buchanan’s bill will: Permanently lower tax rates for individuals and families, allowing Americans at every income level to keep more of their hard-earned money Preserve the 20 percent deduction for small businesses, ensuring taxes won’t go up on Main Street businesses, which employ nearly half of the U.S. workforce Maintain the higher standard deduction, increasing the amount of tax-free income a middle-class family can earn Lock in the doubled child tax credit, further encouraging workforce participation Permanently simplify the tax filing process, allowing 9 out of 10 Americans to get the full benefit of tax deductions without the headache of tracking receipts or itemizing The legislation also includes a number of important updates to a previous iteration of this bill, including several technical fixes and expanded eligible uses of 529 savings plans to help parents and students. Buchanan’s bill has been endorsed by several of the nation’s leading conservative economic policy organizations and has attracted more than 40 Republican cosponsors since introduction three weeks ago. Buchanan has led five of the six Ways and Means Subcommittees, including as Chairman of the Tax Policy Subcommittee where he oversaw the successful and smooth implementation of the largest overhaul of our tax code in more than 30 years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-receives-top-award-constituent-communication-during-august-recess,Bilirakis Receives Top Award for Constituent Communication During August Recess Listening Tour,2022-10-07,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC: When Members of Congress returned to their district for the month of August and two weeks in September, Congressman Gus Bilirakis embarked upon a listening tour to gauge the interest and priorities of his constituents. In total, the Congressman held 31 events throughout Tampa Bay within that six-week period, and met with countless parents, teachers, students, Veterans, seniors, small business owners and other stakeholders. “In each of these sessions, the message I consistently heard loud and clear is that our neighbors and businesses are hurting, said Bilirakis. “Raging inflation caused by reckless government spending has caused the price of gas and groceries to skyrocket. People simply can’t keep pace, and they need help, especially those who are on fixed incomes, like our seniors.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-latta-and-joyce-lead-opposition-california-gas-powered-vehicle-ban,"Bilirakis, Latta and Joyce Lead Opposition to California Gas-Powered Vehicle Ban",2022-10-06,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, U.S. Reps. Gus Bilirakis, Bob Latta, John Joyce, and 155 of their House colleagues, including Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA23), House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA1), Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-NY21), and House Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA5), sent a letter to President Biden in opposition to a forthcoming waiver request from the state of California that will ban the sale of new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, or gas- and diesel-powered vehicles. This ban raises serious questions regarding the reliability of an already-stressed electric grid, the need to generate additional power, the accessibility of critical minerals needed for increased electrification, and the role of the government in consumer choice. “California’s proposal is another example of liberal elitists being detached from the real constraints on the energy grid and the average American consumer,” said Bilirakis. “This summer we already saw California’s energy grid struggle to meet growing energy demands, and these proposed regulations would only exacerbate that strain. With the higher-than-average cost of an EV vehicle, the average Californian might find themselves not only unable to afford a new EV vehicle, but even if they are, potentially unable to keep it reliably charged due to brown or black outs. All Americans should have the freedom to choose which vehicle makes the most sense for their particular circumstances and budgets, and the EPA should not enable the Californian elite to set a precedent that could have negative impacts on all Americans.” “Earlier this year, America’s energy regulators warned states about elevated risks to the reliability of our electric grid and the increased threat of brown and black outs,” said Latta. “Instead of heeding those warnings, California politicians are pursuing stifling new regulations to ban gas- and diesel-powered cars by 2035. This effort will extend far beyond California’s borders and will make it more difficult for Americans to get to work, drop their kids off at school, and travel to visit loved ones. We cannot forget, California recently alerted residents to substantially reduce their energy consumption, and now, they are contradicting themselves by forcing folks to become more reliant on the electric grid through the mandatory transition from traditional vehicles to electric-only vehicles. These actions are misguided and will further exacerbate the strain on our grid. California’s proposal is wrong; we must stand up now to preserve the reliability of our nation’s electric grid and the rights of Americans to choose the vehicles they want to drive.” “California’s discriminatory waiver request would set a costly and dangerous precedent”, said Joyce. “Americans should not be coerced into making purchases they cannot afford, and they should be free to drive the roads built with their tax dollars in the vehicles they otherwise would choose to drive. This heavy-handed proposal picks winners and losers, and I am proud to stand with my colleagues in urging the EPA to deny this outrageous request.” Background",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-kat-cammack-ed-case-steven-palazzo-jimmy-panetta-announce-establishment,"Reps. Kat Cammack, Ed Case, Steven Palazzo & Jimmy Panetta Announce Establishment Of Bipartisan Aquaculture Caucus",2022-10-06,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Reps. Kat Cammack (R-FL-03), Ed Case (D-HI-01), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-20), and Steven Palazzo (R-MS-04) announced the establishment of the Aquaculture Caucus, for which the four representatives will serve as inaugural co-chairs. The caucus will serve as a resource and forum to educate and share the potential for growing sustainable, innovative domestic aquaculture. It will also provide policy updates and share initiatives in Congress that support U.S. aquaculture and work to make it more competitive at the global level. ""Aquaculture should be one of the United States' priorities as we grow our focus on food security. In Florida, we've seen the benefits of aquaculture firsthand, breeding, raising, and harvesting shellfish, fish, and aquatic plants in our waters. We've demonstrated that it's possible to provide healthy, fresh food that's produced sustainably at home to support our growing population,"" said Congresswoman Cammack. ""The Aquaculture Caucus shares our enthusiasm for pushing these industries and their innovations forward while growing our infrastructure and market domestically."" ""Aquaculture has always held great promise to help us achieve our broader goals of creating sustainable food systems and responsibly managing our marine resources,"" said Congressman Case. ""Congress should focus more directly on how best to mold federal policy to realize the full potential of American aquaculture. Our new Aquaculture Caucus will provide that focus as we clarify often confusing and contradicting regulatory schemes while ensuring that we protect our marine environment."" ""Since first introducing the Advancing the Quality and Understanding of American Aquaculture Act (AQUAA) in 2018, the conversation on expanding our nation's aquaculture industry has only grown,"" said Congressman Palazzo. ""The fact of the matter is, the United States is missing out on an incredible economic and sustainable opportunity to grow aquaculture on our own shores, creating more American jobs. I’m proud to be a part of the new Aquaculture Caucus and look forward to the conversations and ideas this caucus moves forward."" ""It is reported that we import well over three-quarters of the seafood that we consume in the United States. Aquaculture can play an important role in reducing our reliance on other countries for fish and increase our consumption as well as our domestic production of sustainable seafood,"" said Congressman Panetta. ""The bipartisan Congressional Aquaculture Caucus will work to create policies to support not just a sustainable source of food that can create jobs, but also ensure that it's economically feasible and environmentally friendly."" ""Stronger America Through Seafood (SATS) thanks Reps. Cammack, Case, Palazzo, and Panetta for establishing a congressional caucus for lawmakers to learn about the benefits that a robust aquaculture industry would provide communities nationwide,"" said Horace Dawson, III, General Counsel of Red Lobster and Member of SATS. ""The growth of American aquaculture would create new jobs across the seafood supply chain while supplying our communities with local, sustainable seafood. For the U.S. to realize the full economic potential of aquaculture, federal legislation is needed."" ""The leadership to create bipartisan participation in an Aquaculture Caucus is strongly supported by the aquaculture community,"" commented Sebastian Belle, President, National Aquaculture Association. President Belle continued,""Creating a caucus to advocate for fish, shellfish, crustaceans and aquatic plant farms supporting thousands of jobs throughout the nation is important to effectively communicate the nationwide economic impact of aquaculture farms and their ancillary businesses to rural inland and coastal communities. Organizing an Aquaculture Caucus is very timely as the nation is experiencing food supply shocks and rising prices. We believe U.S. aquaculture is under appreciated for the diversity of freshwater and saltwater animals and plants farmed and sold live, fresh and processed to the American consumer; complexity and cost of federal and state regulations; lack of therapeutants to insure animal care, and the value and benefits of federal research to advance sustainable production. The new Aquaculture Caucus creates an exciting focal point for national dialogue. We look forward to working with the caucus members."" The introductory caucus members include Reps. Cammack, Case, Palazzo, Panetta, Salud Carbajal, Jerry Carl, Buddy Carter, Rick Crawford, Scott Franklin, French Hill, Barry Moore, Maria Salazar, Abigail Spanberger, and Rob Wittman. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://gimenez.house.gov/2022/10/gimenez-announces-fema-grant-funding-for-key-west,Gimenez Announces FEMA Grant Funding for Key West,2022-10-06,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"MIAMI, FL – Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) announced today a round of funding disbursed by FEMA to the Utility Board of the City of Key West Electric Resilient Infrastructure Project. The nearly-$4.5 million grant comes in addition to the $2.4 million disbursed in 2020. According to FEMA, this grant will fund the strengthening of overhead power distribution lines by replacing 423 wood distribution poles with ductile iron poles. The existing wood poles support main electrical feeders fed from utility substations. This project will help protect the ductile poles from winds north of 145 mph, making Key West’s electrical infrastructure much more resilient to natural disasters common in the area. “This is a huge win for Key West. Monroe County remains a high-risk area for tropical storm and hurricane damage. This project will undoubtedly help keep South Florida the greatest place to live, work, and raise a family. In Congress, I’ll keep fighting for more resources and assistance for Monroe County in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. This includes fighting to secure Category A designation from FEMA and Monroe County’s inclusion on President Biden’s list of counties set to receive full individual and public assistance from FEMA,” Gimenez said after announcing the grant.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-leads-letter-to-house-appropriations-committee-urging-emergency-funding-in-response-to-hurricane-ian/,Rep. Steube Leads Letter to House Appropriations Committee Urging Emergency Funding in Response to Hurricane Ian,2022-10-05,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Steube Leads Letter to House Appropriations Committee Urging Emergency Funding in Response to Hurricane Ian WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) yesterday led a letter to the leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee urging prioritization of an emergency supplemental appropriations package in response to the destruction of Hurricane Ian. The lawmakers wrote that Hurricane Ian left a devastating impact on their constituents saying, “As you know, this category four hurricane is one of the most catastrophic and deadly hurricanes to make landfall in Florida in the last 50 years. It has left many communities without basic needs, such as food, water, power, and shelter.” The lawmakers continued, “We ask the House Committee on Appropriations to urgently work with the Florida delegation in drafting an emergency supplemental appropriations package as we accumulate damage assessments. We ask that you exclusively focus on recent hurricane disasters in this package, and free from any language that is not directly related to the hurricane relief and recovery efforts.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=88274825-FDC8-4BD1-9DE0-15EA3936031A,Webster Gets $3 Million to Constituents,2022-10-05,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Leesburg, FL – Today, Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, announced that from January – September 2022, his office has gotten federal agencies to return over $3.7 million owed to constituents. These are constituents who contacted his office for help with issues before the IRS, VA, Social Security and more. “Providing my constituents with first-class assistance with issues involving federal agencies is one of my top priorities,”said Rep. Webster. “Too often, Americans attempting to secure the veteran benefits, IRS or Social Security payments they have earned are met with delays. I am pleased that we have been able to intercede on behalf of so many constituents to ensure they receive the services and compensation they have earned.” Webster’s constituent services staff work diligently with agency liaisons on a constituent’s behalf to answer questions, find solutions, or simply attempt to cut through the red tape. Webster’s office recently helped a veteran in the Villages with his VA claim relating to Agent Orange exposure. After Webster’s involvement, the claim was resolved and included a retro payment of more than $80,000. Since January 2017, working on behalf of voters in his district, Rep. Webster’s office has gotten more than $18 million returned to constituents from owed tax returns, pension benefits or other retroactive payments. Webster added, “I am committed to continuing to work to improve the quality, effectivity and efficiency of our federal agencies.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/10/meritact,Buchanan Introduces Bill to Improve Access to New Drugs and Treatments for Seniors,2022-10-04,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Vern Buchanan today announced that he has introduced legislation to help ensure coverage of potentially life-saving drugs and new treatments for Medicare beneficiaries. In an unprecedented move, earlier this year unelected bureaucrats at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) unilaterally restricted coverage for the first new treatment for Alzheimer’s disease (Aduhelm) in nearly two decades, despite prior approval from scientists at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In doing so, CMS cast a very wide net by restricting coverage of any similar drugs in its class. “The federal government should make it easier for seniors to access breakthrough treatments, not unreasonably restrict potentially life-changing drugs for our nation’s most vulnerable patients,” said Buchanan. “Unfortunately, the Biden administration and Democrats in Washington have continuously pursued policies that will stifle innovation, halt progress toward revolutionary cures and move manufacturing overseas – particularly to China.” To protect similar drugs from future bureaucratic overreach, Buchanan’s Mandating Exclusive Review of Individual Treatments (MERIT) Act requires the CMS to evaluate treatments and cures individually and based on their own merits, rather than as a broad class of drugs. Buchanan introduced this legislation with Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (D-Ca.) and penned an op-ed in the Bradenton Herald on CMS’s restriction of Aduhelm earlier this year. By requiring CMS to review each drug individually, the MERIT Act will undo the actions taken by CMS that would otherwise unnecessarily limit access to drugs like Aduhelm for seniors. With additional drugs to treat Alzheimer’s preparing to come to market soon, this bill will ensure those drugs receive fair and accurate consideration for coverage, rather than requiring onerous additional steps before CMS will make them available to Medicare beneficiaries. For example, just this week, preliminary data for a second drug to treat Alzheimer’s in the same way as Aduhelm was released and showed promise in slowing the progression of this horrible disease. Buchanan’s bill is supported by the Alzheimer’s Association, UsAgainstAlzheimer’s and the Global Alzheimer’s Platform Foundation. Robert Egge, Alzheimer’s Association chief public policy officer and Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM) executive director said, “No two treatments are the same, even if they are in the same class of drug, and CMS should not determine coverage based on type of treatment. Thank you to Representatives Buchanan and Barragan for introducing this critical, bipartisan legislation and supporting people living with Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.” George Vradenburg, chair and co-founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, said, “This bill corrects a massive injustice by CMS against people with Alzheimer’s. The decision by CMS to deny coverage for the first class of disease-modifying Alzheimer’s treatments, including those still in clinical trials, was cruel and unconscionable. Further, for the first time in history, CMS refused to cover an FDA-approved drug, discriminating against millions of people living with this disease. This bill will help ensure CMS reviews each drug based on its own merits and prevent the agency from making uninformed blanket coverage decisions in the future.” John Dwyer, president of the Global Alzheimer’s Platform Foundation said, “We strongly support Congressman Buchanan's proposed changes to Medicare's NCD process. The changes are needed to avoid unwarranted bureaucratic delays and ensure access to new therapies for patients with Alzheimer's or other life-threatening diseases.” Similarly, the FDA just approved a new drug to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, the third drug available to treat ALS symptoms available in the United States. Without legislation like the MERIT Act requiring consideration of each drug on its own merits, CMS could implement another overly restrictive decision for any new ALS drugs based on just this one, which would inhibit access to new treatments for the nearly 30,000 ALS patients across America. In addition to being second in seniority on the Ways and Means Committee after Leader Kevin Brady, Buchanan is the lead Republican on the Health Subcommittee. He also co-chairs the 17-member Republican Healthy Future Task Force, which was created to develop solutions to modernize the American health care system to lower costs, keep Americans healthy, develop better therapies and cures and provide Americans with more choices.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://gimenez.house.gov/2022/10/congressman-gimenez-urges-president-biden-to-approve-federal-individual-assistance-for-monroe-county,Congressman Gimenez Urges President Biden to Approve Federal Individual Assistance for Monroe County,2022-10-03,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"MIAMI, FL – Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) urged President Biden to approve federal emergency Individual Assistance (IA) for Monroe County by designating it as a Category A region under FEMA. In the letter sent to the White House, Gimenez underscored the importance for Monroe to receive assistance with debris removal and eligibility for IA after significant damage to homes and businesses. Additionally, Congressman Gimenez joined a letter to President Joe Biden, led by Representative Darren Soto (FL-9), along with members of the Florida congressional delegation, in urging President Biden to approve Individual Assistance for all 67 counties in Florida in the wake of Hurricane Ian. Currently, Monroe County is designated Category B, making the county eligible for only partial assistance for emergency protective measures. The Category A designation would make Monroe County a priority for emergency work, including debris removal and qualify individuals for assistance. By getting the ground cleared, we can quickly eliminate immediate threats of significant damage to properties in the Florida Keys, and lay the groundwork for safe rebuild of local infrastructure. As of October 3rd, Monroe County has not been included in President Biden’s list of major disaster declaration areas in Florida. This declaration triggers the crucial federal funds and resources for counties most impacted by Hurricane Ian. The full text of Congressman Gimenez’s letter is below. Dear President Biden, Thank you for working with the Florida Governor and state and local officials in declaring a state of emergency in Florida due to Hurricane Ian. The full-encompassing damage caused by this historic natural disaster remains to be assessed. Hurricane Ian's profound impact has affected a vast majority of our residents who have already experienced power outages, destruction to their properties, flooding, and other widespread damage. Additionally, the Key West International Airport suffered destructive damage to the EMAS on Runway 27 and this damage is estimated to be $7 Million. Regular commercial airline operations will be severely impacted if repairs are not done very soon. As we enter the recovery phase, I urge your administration to add Monroe County to the list of counties set to receive federal emergency assistance by designating Monroe as a Category A assisting with debris removal and allowing eligibility for Individual Assistance (IA). The Florida Keys in Monroe County experienced significant damage as it relates to extensive flood and property damage to homes and businesses. Further, in addition to damage to Key West International Airport, preliminary assessments indicate significant damage to other critical infrastructure including public housing facilities, transmission lines and piers. Providing the county with the necessary tools and resources is crucial to assisting individuals and businesses impacted by flooding and to restoring the functions of local government and utility operations. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you on this issue and welcome any opportunity to discuss this matter. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-along-entire-florida-federal-delegation-urges-president-issue-major,"Bilirakis, Along with Entire Florida Federal Delegation, Urges President to Issue Major Disaster Declaration",2022-09-30,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Hurricane Ian made landfall near Cayo Costa, Florida as a Category 4 major hurricane, resulting in ongoing, catastrophic damage and life-threatening conditions in the southwestern part of the state, including Tampa Bay. As it continues across the peninsula, the storm is expected to cause extreme storm surge, damaging winds, widespread rainfall, power outages, and other severe damage throughout Florida. The entire Florida Federal delegation sent a letter to President Joe Biden in support of Governor Ron DeSantis’ request to approve a Major Disaster Declaration in response to the historic hurricane. “Floridians are resilient, said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. “However, they deserve the full, proactive cooperation of all levels of government to ensure a coordinated and timely response to this widespread emergency. My colleagues and I are working together to ensure that happens.” For several days, Bilirakis has been meeting with federal, state and local stakeholders to ensure residents throughout Tampa Bay were properly prepared to stay safe during the hurricane while minimizing property damage. He also has been in touch with officials to ensure all Floridians have the resources they need to recover as quickly as possible. The full text of the letter is below. Dear Mr. President: We write in support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ request for a Major Disaster Declaration due to Hurricane Ian, which is currently causing catastrophic conditions as a Category 4 major hurricane. Hurricane Ian’s historic size, sustained winds and dangerously slow pace, which stand to affect virtually the entire state, will produce significant flooding, massive power outages and widespread damage throughout Florida. As such, we request that you promptly approve Governor DeSantis’ request for a Major Disaster Declaration for all of Florida’s 67 counties. This historic hurricane will continue to impact the state for some time, and the full extent of damage will not be known for days. However, approving this declaration request will allow Floridians to be better prepared for the recovery phase. As such, we urge you to approve the State of Florida’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration, which will provide the assistance necessary for our constituents to recover and rebuild. Floridians are incredibly resilient, and with cooperation at all levels of government, we will rebuild stronger than ever. Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://gimenez.house.gov/2022/9/congressman-gimenez-joins-entire-florida-delegation-in-urging-president-to-approve-assistance-for-all-67-counties,Congressman Gimenez joins Entire Florida Delegation in Urging President to Approve Assistance for All 67 Counties,2022-09-30,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"MIAMI, FL. - Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) joined a letter to President Joe Biden, led by Representative Darren Soto (FL-9), along with members of the Florida congressional delegation, in urging the President to approve individual assistance for all 67 counties in Florida in the wake of Hurricane Ian. The full text of the letter is below. Dear Mr. President: We write to request that you favorably consider the designation of Individual Assistance (IA) for Florida’s 67 counties. Thank you for making federal funding available to affected individuals in the counties of Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pinellas, and Sarasota counties. However, with Hurricane Ian’s historic size, sustained winds, and dangerously slow pace, affecting virtually the entire state, it is imperative that we move quickly to provide support to all individuals whose lives have been affected by this hurricane. The damage from Hurricane Ian is set to be devastating to the people of Florida, and they need relief as fast as possible. With preliminary damage reports already coming in, we must act quickly. The state sustained 150 mile an hour wind speeds with 190 mile an hour gusts, with more than a 2.6 million clients without power, widespread damage, and flooded roads and bridges, and a forecasted 20 inches of rain across the state. We must move swiftly as a government to ensure that the residents of Florida can recover. As such, we respectfully ask that you favorably consider the designation of Individual Assistance (IA) for all of Florida’s 67 counties. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://gimenez.house.gov/2022/9/congressman-gimenez-joins-rubio-scott-and-entire-florida-delegation-in-urging-president-to-declare-major-disaster-declaration,"Congressman Gimenez Joins Rubio, Scott, and Entire Florida Delegation in Urging President to Declare Major Disaster Declaration",2022-09-29,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"MIAMI, FL - Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) joined a letter to President Joe Biden led by U.S. Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio, along with the Florida congressional delegation, in support of Governor Ron DeSantis’s request to approve a Major Disaster Declaration in response to Hurricane Ian. The full letter of the text is below. Dear Mr. President: We write in support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ request for a Major Disaster Declaration due to Hurricane Ian, which is currently causing catastrophic conditions as a Category 4 major hurricane. Hurricane Ian’s historic size, sustained winds and dangerously slow pace, which stand to affect virtually the entire state, will produce significant flooding, massive power outages and widespread damage throughout Florida. As such, we request that you promptly approve Governor DeSantis’ request for a Major Disaster Declaration for all of Florida’s 67 counties. This historic hurricane will continue to impact the state for some time, and the full extent of damage will not be known for days. However, approving this declaration request will allow Floridians to be better prepared for the recovery phase. As such, we urge you to approve the State of Florida’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration, which will provide the assistance necessary for our constituents to recover and rebuild. Floridians are incredibly resilient, and with cooperation at all levels of government, we will rebuild stronger than ever. Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter. Sincerely, ICYMI… Congressman Gimenez joined Fox Business’s Cavuto to discuss Hurricane Ian Congressman Gimenez joined Spicer & Co. to discuss Hurricane Ian after landfall Congressman Gimenez joined Fox Business’s Evening Edit to discuss Hurricane Ian and the plan after landfall Congressman Gimenez joined Newsmax to discuss Hurricane Ian’s damage",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=7D74BF47-00EC-4087-BDFD-F335DE7AD790,Webster's SPEED Recovery Act Passes in Congress,2022-09-29,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5641, the Small Project Efficient and Effective Disaster (SPEED) Recovery Act. This legislation was first introduced by Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, with Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO) and bipartisan leaders on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. This bipartisan bill cuts red tape and helps expedite disaster recovery efforts, especially in small and rural areas. “The passage of this legislation could not come at a more critical time,” said Rep Webster. “I’ve heard from communities in my district about the paperwork burdens and increasing denials over technicalities, and I hope the commonsense adjustments in this bill will improve the process. With Hurricane Ian making landfall in Florida, it’s vital that our disaster recovery efforts deliver expedited relief to communities in need.” “The SPEED Recovery Act will streamline the process to provide Floridians, particularly those in rural communities with small projects, with speedier disaster recovery assistance.” Background Information H.R. 5641 updates what the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) considers a “small project” under the Stafford Act to $1 million. This is the first adjustment in nearly three decades and reflects inflation and rising repair costs. Increasing the small project threshold allows communities to recover faster and allows FEMA to focus more of their time and resources on larger, more complex projects that represent 90% of disaster costs. The SPEED Recovery Act is supported by the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM), the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA), and the Big City Emergency Managers (BCEM). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-joins-colleagues-raising-concerns-over-chinese-owned-farmland-near,Rutherford Joins Colleagues in Raising Concerns Over Chinese-Owned Farmland Near U.S. Military Installations,2022-09-28,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,John H. Rutherford,R000609,rutherford.house.gov,rutherford,https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman John Rutherford (FL-04) joined Representative Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) and 49 of his colleagues in raising concerns over the recent acquisition of farmland near a U.S. military installation by a Chinese-based manufacturer with close links to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The letter was sent to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. ""At a time when the United States is engaged in great power competition with China, we must utilize every tool at our disposal to protect and defend the integrity of our military and national security, maintain military dominance, and maximize our global military readiness,"" the members wrote. The letter comes after a recent land acquisition near Grand Forks, North Dakota, by the Fufeng Group. The land is in close proximity to Grand Forks Air Force Base, which is a military installation with intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. The move raises concerns about the CCP's desire to conduct espionage operations on U.S. military installations, potentially jeopardizing U.S. strategic interests. Read the full letter here and below. Dear Secretary Austin, Yellen, and Vilsack, The recent acquisition of property north of Grand Forks, North Dakota, by the Fufeng Group, a Chinese-based manufacturer with close links to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), is an alarming development for our national security. According to the United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission, the Grand Forks Air Force Base has exceptional intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities, making the recently purchased land the ideal location to closely monitor and intercept military activity. The presence of a CCP-affiliated corporation near a military installation potentially undermines the integrity of our high-capability military bases, jeopardizing our strategic interests. This CCP-tied entity will have potential advantageous opportunities to perpetuate espionage, including actions and activities carried out under commercial cover or auspices. We are concerned about the precedent this land purchase will set and its ability to serve as the model for our adversaries to encroach on American security, particularly through purchases of farmland in our congressional districts housing several military installations, such as mine - Homestead Air Force Base (HARB). HARB currently houses Special Operations Command South in South Florida and is home to the 482nd Fighter Wing with combat-ready capabilities, supporting operations for the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Maritime Safety and Security Team, and the air and maritime branch under U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). At a time when the United States is engaged in great power competition with China, we must utilize every tool at our disposal to protect and defend the integrity of our military and national security, maintain military dominance, and maximize our global military readiness. Acquisitions of this magnitude pose a threat not only to our national security but also to our food security. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), at the beginning of 2021 foreign investors held a stake in approximately 37.6 million acres of U.S. agricultural land. This trend is expected to increase over the next few years, raising concerns about the negative potential implications it will have on domestic food production and national food security. This, coupled with USDA's absence from permanent membership on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), is concerning, as the Department should have some jurisdiction over the review of agricultural land acquisitions that raise national security concerns. In light of these concerns to U.S. national security, we urge your department to take effective action in addressing the potential national security risks that appear to arise from this transaction and what it means for the future of our national security. We appreciate your response to the specific questions and concerns raised below as they will guide oversight of this pending matter. 1. Are there any areas identified by the Department of the Treasury (Treasury), USDA, or the Department of Defense (DoD) in which the CFIUS statute, regulations, or agency interpretations are overly prescribed in ways that prevent U.S. national security agencies from effectively protecting U.S. national security and addressing risks that arise from farmland and real estate transactions? 2. How is the DoD addressing the potential national security risks and vulnerabilities of this acquisition and future ones by CCP-affilitiated entities so close to a sensative military base? 3. Has Treasury and other agency co-leads established jurisdiction to act on this transaction and address the national security risks it poses? Has CFIUS prioritized the review of this transaction? 4. Increasing public examples of Chinese-based companies' acquisition of farmland, including land close to military facilities, are merit for USDA to be added to CFIUS as a full member rather than only joining certain cases on an ad hoc basis. Was USDA requested to participate in an initial review? If not, what was the jurisdiction? 5. What actions are being taken by the DoD in cooperation with the U.S. military services and military base commands to understand and assess potential risks with foreign investments in close proximity to U.S. military bases and other facilities? Please submit responses to the following questions within 60 days of receiving this letter. We look forward to hearing from you on this issue and working with each of your departments. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=BB8A1753-0290-4BBE-AF92-D72871F60570,Webster and Entire Florida Delegation Urge Biden to Declare Major Disaster Declaration,2022-09-28,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, along with U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Rick Scott (R-FL) and the entire Florida delegation sent a letter to President Biden in support of Governor Ron DeSantis’ request to approve a Major Disaster Declaration in response to the historic hurricane. Hurricane Ian made landfall near Cayo Costa, Florida as a Category 4 major hurricane, resulting in ongoing, catastrophic damage and life-threatening conditions in the southwestern part of the state. As it continues across the peninsula, the storm is expected to cause extreme storm surge, damaging winds, widespread rainfall, power outages, and other severe damage throughout Florida. The full text of the letter is below. Dear Mr. President: We write in support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ request for a Major Disaster Declaration due to Hurricane Ian, which is currently causing catastrophic conditions as a Category 4 major hurricane. Hurricane Ian’s historic size, sustained winds and dangerously slow pace, which stand to affect virtually the entire state, will produce significant flooding, massive power outages and widespread damage throughout Florida. As such, we request that you promptly approve Governor DeSantis’ request for a Major Disaster Declaration for all of Florida’s 67 counties. This historic hurricane will continue to impact the state for some time, and the full extent of damage will not be known for days. However, approving this declaration request will allow Floridians to be better prepared for the recovery phase. As such, we urge you to approve the State of Florida’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration, which will provide the assistance necessary for our constituents to recover and rebuild. Floridians are incredibly resilient, and with cooperation at all levels of government, we will rebuild stronger than ever. Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://gimenez.house.gov/2022/9/gimenez-leads-colleagues-in-letter-over-chinese-owned-farmland-near-u-s-military-installations,GIMENEZ LEADS COLLEAGUES IN LETTER OVER CHINESE-OWNED FARMLAND NEAR U.S. MILITARY INSTALLATIONS,2022-09-27,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-26) led a letter of 50 of his colleagues raising concerns over the recent acquisition of farmland near a U.S. military installation by a Chinese-based manufacturer with close links to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The letter was sent to Defense Secretary Austin Lloyd, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. The letter comes after a recent land acquisition near Grand Forks, North Dakota, by the Fefung Group, a Chinese-based manufacturer with close links to the CCP. The area houses the Grand Forks Air Force Base, which the members point out is a military installation incredibly important for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. The move raises concerns about the CCP’s ability to conduct espionage operations on U.S. military installations and jeopardizing U.S. strategic interests. “At a time when the United States is engaged in great power competition with China, we must utilize every tool at our disposal to protect and defend the integrity of our military and national security, maintain military dominance, and maximize our global military readiness,” the members wrote in the letter led by Gimenez. The members are expecting answers to the following questions from each of the Departments: 1. Are there any areas identified by the Department of the Treasury (Treasury), USDA, or the Department of Defense (DoD) in which the CFIUS statute, regulations, or agency interpretations are overly prescribed in ways that prevent U.S. national security agencies from effectively protecting U.S. national security and addressing risks that arise from farmland and real estate transactions? 2. How is the DoD addressing the potential national security risks and vulnerabilities of this acquisition and future ones by a CCP-affiliated entities so close to a sensitive military base? 3. Has Treasury and other agency co-leads established jurisdiction to act on this transaction and address the national security risks it poses? Has CFIUS prioritized the review of this transaction? 4. Increasing public examples of Chinese-based companies’ acquisition of farmland, including land close to military facilities, are merit for USDA to be added to CFIUS as a full member rather than only joining certain cases on an ad hoc basis. Was USDA requested to participate in an initial review? If not, what was the justification? 5. What actions are being taken by the DoD in cooperation with the U.S. military services and military base commands to understand and assess potential risks with foreign investments in close proximity to U.S. military bases and other facilities? The Farmland Acquisition letter has been endorsed by Heritage Action, a conservative advocacy organization. “The threat from the Chinese Communist Party is the most critical and consequential international threat that the U.S. faces, and CCP acquisition of land, particularly near U.S. military installations, is an immediate risk to America’s national security. Eliminating this risk requires an aggressive plan to prevent and punish malicious land use that threatens U.S. interests. We applaud Representative Gimenez for asking the Biden administration tough questions and pushing them to adopt a more aggressive posture against the CCP,” Heritage Action's Vice President Garrett Bess said after endorsing the letter. View the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-and-house-republicans-introduce-the-commitment-to-america/,Rep. Steube and House Republicans Introduce the Commitment to America,2022-09-23,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Steube and House Republicans Introduce the Commitment to America WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) and House Republican Leadership today announced the Commitment to America, a policy platform to get America back on track. Americans deserve an economy that’s strong, a nation that’s safe, a future that’s built on freedom, and a government that’s accountable. “Joe Biden and the Democrat Party have hurt American families through one disastrous decision after the next. Floridians are fed up, America deserves better, and Republicans have a plan to get the greatest country in the world back on track. Through our Commitment to America, the Republican Party will restore our faith in this country and reestablish America as a beacon of freedom and liberty for all,” said Rep. Greg Steube. The Commitment to America platform includes: An Economy That’s Strong Fight Inflation and Lower the Cost of Living Make America Energy Independent and Reduce Gas Prices Strengthen the Supply Chain and End Dependence on China A Nation That’s Safe Secure the Border and Combat Illegal Immigration Reduce Crime and Protect Public Safety Defend America’s National Security A Future That’s Built on Freedom Make Sure Every Student Can Succeed and Give Parents a Voice Achieve Longer, Healthier Lives for Americans Confront Big Tech and Demand Fairness A Government That’s Accountable Preserve Our Constitutional Freedoms Hold Washington Accountable Restore the People’s Voice Learn more about the Commitment to America here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-leads-letter-to-fda-commissioner-requesting-disclosure-of-covid-19-vaccine-adverse-effects-data/,Rep. Steube Leads Letter to FDA Commissioner Requesting Disclosure of COVID-19 Vaccine Adverse Events Data,2022-09-23,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Steube Leads Letter to FDA Commissioner Requesting Disclosure of COVID-19 Vaccine Adverse Events Data WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) yesterday led a letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Robert M. Califf to request full agency compliance with their obligation under law to disclose Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting (VAERS) data for the COVID-19 vaccine. The letter was cosigned by two other Members of the House of Representatives, Rep. Michael Cloud (R-Texas) and Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.). “Since the COVID-19 vaccine received an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), VAERS has received over 1.4 million reports of adverse events following the administration of the vaccine,” wrote the lawmakers. “If an adverse reaction to a vaccine is identified through VAERS, scientists at the FDA should perform further tests to determine if the vaccine presents an actual risk to public health.” The Members continued, “Ever since the first COVID-19 vaccine received an EUA, the FDA has been noncompliant in releasing relevant data regarding the safety of the vaccine…The information contained within a VAERS report could be lifesaving. It is unacceptable that the FDA would withhold such important material from the public eye.” You can read the full letter here or below: The Honorable Robert M. Califf Commissioner U.S. Food and Drug Administration 10903 New Hampshire Avenue Silver Spring, MD 20993 Dear Commissioner Califf: We write concerned about the reports that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is refusing to provide records and analyses from the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), which your agency is obligated to disclose under 5 U.S.C. § 552(a)(3). As you know, VAERS is the early warning database that monitors the safety of vaccines after they are authorized for use by the FDA. Since the COVID-19 vaccine received an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), VAERS has received over 1.4 million reports of adverse events following the administration of the vaccine. If an adverse reaction to a vaccine is identified through VAERS, scientists at the FDA should perform further tests to determine if the vaccine presents an actual risk to public health. The database has helped researchers establish that those who receive the COVID-19 vaccine may be at a higher risk for developing the following conditions: Anaphylaxis, which is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, from the first Pfizer/BioNTech vaccinations Thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) after Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen Biotech COVID-19 vaccination Myocarditis (inflammation of heart muscle) or pericarditis (inflammation of the outer lining of the heart) after COVID-19 vaccination Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) after Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen Biotech COVID-19 vaccination VAERS has received over 30,700 reports of death among recipients of the COVID-19 vaccine, although no causal link between the vaccine and death has been determined Additionally, the system has been able to identify populations that may experience a more severe adverse event after receiving the vaccine based on their medical history. Ever since the first COVID-19 vaccine received an EUA, the FDA has been noncompliant in releasing relevant data regarding the safety of the vaccine. In 2021, a group of medical researchers sued the FDA, stating the agency denied a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to expedite the release of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine review documents. In response to the lawsuit, the FDA proposed releasing around 500 pages of the review documents each month, which would fulfill the organization’s FOIA request in around 55 to 75 years. In January 2022, a federal judge ordered the FDA to release at least 55,000 pages of material every month. However, the FDA is still refusing to release their analyses of VAERS data following a FOIA request for the records. The information contained within a VAERS report could be lifesaving. It is unacceptable that the FDA would withhold such important material from the public eye. Americans depend on the information provided in VAERS to be able to make conscious decisions about their health and well-being. It is critical that the FDA be transparent and release important sets of data to the public. We look forward to receiving your response within 30 days. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/9/lmrpasseshouse,Buchanan Bill to Protect Little Manatee River Passes U.S. House,2022-09-22,2022,2022-09,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 legislation, the Little Manatee Wild and Scenic River Act, has passed the U.S. House with broad bipartisan support. Buchanan’s Little Manatee Wild and Scenic River Act (HR 4358) aims to designate the approximately 51-mile-long segment of the river, beginning at its source in southeastern Hillsborough County flowing downstream to the point at which the river enters Tampa Bay, as a scenic river. In January, the House Natural Resources Committee amended Buchanan’s bill to authorize a formal National Park Service (NPS) study of the river before an official designation can occur. “Protecting Florida’s beautiful lands and pristine waterways is one of my top priorities,” said Buchanan. “Designating the Little Manatee River as ‘scenic’ will ensure that it is kept in its current, pristine condition for future generations to enjoy. I’m hopeful the U.S. Senate will approve this bill promptly and send this important legislation to the president’s desk for signature.” Designating the river as scenic would add Little Manatee River to the National Park Service’s Wild and Scenic River System, whose primary goal is to conserve free-flowing rivers across the United States. The designation will protect this river for public enjoyment without the fear of intrusive development. The designation ensures the river remains available for a full range of recreational activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, boating and fishing. Hillsborough County Commissioner Stacy White said, “From canoeing and fishing for bass or panfish upriver to skiing and fishing for various saltwater species downriver, this natural treasure has much to offer in terms of recreation and scenic beauty. I have spent a lifetime enjoying all that this river has to offer and my hope is to see it preserved for many more generations of Hillsborough County residents to enjoy. We are blessed to have such a beautiful river right in our own backyard.” Chairman of the Manatee County Board of Commissioners Kevin Van Ostenbridge said, “Manatee County is home to some of the most beautiful waterways in the state of Florida. I commend Congressman Buchanan for fighting to protect the Little Manatee River so that everyone can enjoy its wildlife, recreation and beautiful scenery for years to come.” Once formally added to the National Park Service’s Wild and Scenic River System, the NPS would collaborate with local government officials in Florida to develop a management plan for the Little Manatee River. The management plan must include how the existing natural environment will be preserved including allowing for continued public use. The plan is designed to achieve the “goal of protecting and enhancing the values that caused it to be designated.” The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System was created by Congress in 1968 to safeguard rivers and encourage robust river management that promotes public participation in developing goals for river protection. The Loxahatchee River and the Wekiva River are the only rivers in Florida currently recognized under the federal program. The Little Manatee River is also recognized at the state level as an ‘Outstanding Florida Water’ and is one of the most pristine blackwater rivers in the state. Buchanan has a long history fighting to protect water quality and the environment in Florida and elsewhere, including leading efforts in Congress to increase federal funding into red tide research and reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). Buchanan has also chaired hearings of Florida’s 29-member congressional delegation to discuss some of the most pressing water quality issues affecting the Sunshine State, including harmful algal blooms, the Everglades, offshore drilling and wildlife conservation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cammack-introduces-justified-action-securing-our-nation-jason-act,"Rep. Cammack Introduces ""Justified Action for Securing Our Nation (JASON) Act""",2022-09-22,2022,2022-09,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), a member of the House Homeland Security Committee, introduced the Justified Action for Securing Our Nation (JASON) Act. The bill is named after a Customs and Border Protection agent who inspired the legislation and has dealt with the influx of migrants at the southern border for the last 21 months. The bill would explicitly provide the Secretary of Homeland Security with the authority to prevent the entry of aliens in the event of a surge in apprehensions at U.S. land borders; a public health emergency in the U.S. due to any outbreak that could qualify as a pandemic; the dissolution or failure of a national government in the western hemisphere; or an imminent foreign terror threat to the security of the U.S. The JASON Act amends Section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to provide the DHS Secretary with the authority to suspend entry and requires the Secretary to submit a written notice prior to the action to leadership of the House, Senate, the House and Senate Judiciary Committees, and the House Homeland Security Committee and Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. ""Over the last 21 months, we've experienced a national security, humanitarian, and public health crisis at the southern border. Joe Biden refuses to act on the crisis that he created, Kamala Harris has not visited the border as the so-called 'Border Czar,' and DHS Sec. Mayorkas believes there's no crisis occurring in the first place,"" said Cammack. ""This bill holds the Secretary accountable by providing him with the authority to shut down the border to protect our national security and deliver relief to the hundreds of CBP agents who are doing their best to hold the line in California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas."" ""The Biden administration has enabled a surge of illegal immigration at the southern border the likes of which we have never seen before. This has brought dangerous drugs, terrorist threats, and criminal activity into American communities. Now more than ever, we need to suspend entry into the country in order to gain control of our border. Current law already gives the President the power to institute such a restriction, without Congressional approval, for as long as he/she deems necessary. However, we have no confidence this President, given his open-borders agenda, will take such a step. Congresswoman Kat Cammack, meanwhile, has visited the southern border several times and understands the crisis we face,"" said Dan Stein, president of the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR). ""Our Border Patrol agents are facing an unprecedented crisis at the southern border with almost 3.6 million encounters and over 900,000 known gotaways since this administration took office. Narco-terrorist cartels have taken advantage of the situation and ramped up their drug and human smuggling efforts. This has to end,"" said National Border Patrol Council (NBPC) President Brandon Judd. ""I thank Rep. Cammack for working with Border Patrol agents and understanding the situation we face. The JASON Act will give the Secretary of Homeland Security the authority to prevent entry into the country when there are border surges and for other situations concerning national security. This is a brilliant and commonsense tool that will hold the Secretary accountable while giving our agents on the line a much-needed policy to secure the border."" ""We applaud her for introducing legislation to explicitly prescribe conditions when a suspension may be declared and extend this power to the Secretary of Homeland Security, which could help overcome an obstinate President. This would be a step in the right direction for protecting American families and alleviating the burden on our heroic Border Patrol, and we urge swift passage,"" Stein added. The bill's cosponsors at the time of introduction include Reps. Byron Donalds, Brian Babin, Jim Banks, Ken Buck, Dan Crenshaw, Glenn Grothman, Yvette Herrell, Clay Higgins, Nicole Malliotakis, Beth Van Duyne, and Randy Weber. The Fox News exclusive on the bill is available here. The full text of the legislation may be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-statement-house-passage-invest-protect-act,Rutherford Statement on House Passage of Invest to Protect Act,2022-09-22,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,John H. Rutherford,R000609,rutherford.house.gov,rutherford,https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman John Rutherford (FL-04) released the following statement in support of the passage of H.R. 6448, the Invest to Protect Act of 2022, by a vote of 360-64: ""Attacks against law enforcement over the last two and a half years have left officers demoralized, causing them to leave the profession in droves. I am pleased that the House passed the Invest to Protect Act which will provide small police departments with the resources they need to hire and retain the best officers, provide necessary training, and improve officer well-being. It has been an honor to work with Representative Gottheimer on this bipartisan bill that will make an impact on smaller communities."" The bipartisan, bicameral Invest to Protect Act was introduced by Representatives Gottheimer (NJ-05) and Rutherford to make targeted investments in small police departments with fewer than 125 sworn officers to support critical recruitment, retention, and training. These law enforcement departments make up more than 96% of local U.S. police departments. The Invest to Protect Act simplifies the grant process and gives departments the flexibility to make meaningful investments in their officers and communities, through: Creating grants for small departments to recruit and retain new officers with signing and retention bonuses; Funding officer safety, de-escalation, and domestic violence response training and; Investing in mental health resources for their officers. The Invest to Protect Act has been endorsed by the National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) and the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=159B26E1-500B-472D-8986-C9DEB6AB2591,Webster: Pelosi's Hypocrisy Knows No Bounds,2022-09-22,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, released the following statement regarding Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats’ forcing last minute votes on H.R. 8542, H.R. 6448, H.R.4118, and H.R. 5768. “Today’s actions by Speaker Pelosi and her congressional leaders further proves their hypocrisy knows no bounds. After more than 2 years of turning a blind eye to mob violence, ignoring attacks on law enforcement and even encouraging lawless behavior, less than 2 months before an election Democrat leaders in Congress are bringing partisan bills to the floor attempting to prove they support police and law and order. Except H.R 6448, at best these bills are window dressing and at worse redirect resources law enforcement use to other agencies or come with so much red-tape they’re not helpful. I have and will continue working to ensure our law enforcement officers have the training, tools and resources needed to keep our neighborhoods and communities safe.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cammack-joins-rep-roy-colleagues-calling-house-republicans-block-massive,"Rep. Cammack Joins Rep. Roy, Colleagues In Calling On House Republicans To Block Massive Democrat Spending Bill",2022-09-21,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) joined Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX-21) and 41 of their Republican colleagues in sending a letter to House Republicans, expressing their opposition to any continuing resolution that empowers Democrats to pass a massive spending package in the upcoming lame duck session of Congress. ""As the September 30th federal funding deadline approaches, Republicans must do what is necessary to ensure that not one additional penny will go toward this administration’s radical, inflationary agenda,"" said the Members. ""Therefore, we, the undersigned, will oppose any continuing resolution that expires prior to the first day of the 118th Congress, or any appropriations package put forward in the remaining months of this Democrat-led Congress."" Current signees of the letter include Reps. Cammack, Alex Mooney (R-MD), Andrew Clyde (R-GA), Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Barry Moore (R-AL), Bill Posey (R-FL), Bob Good (R-VA), Brian Mast (R-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Clay Higgins (R-LA), Dan Bishop (R-NC), David Schweikert (R-AZ), Gregory Steube (R-FL), Jim Banks (R-IN), Jim Jordan (R-OH), Jodey Arrington (R-TX), Jody Hice (R-GA), Ken Buck (R-CO), Kevin Hern (R-OK), Lance Gooden (R-TX), Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Louie Gohmert (R-TX), Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), Mark Green (R-TN), Mary Miller (R-IL), Matt Gaetz (R-FL), Matt Rosendale (R-MT), Michael Cloud (R-TX), Morgan Griffith (R-VA), Paul Gosar (R-AZ), Ralph Norman (R-SC), Randy Weber (R-TX), Roger Williams (R-TX), Russ Fulcher (R-ID), Scott DesJarlais (R-TN), Scott Perry (R-PA), Thomas Massie (R-KY), Tim Burchett (R-TN), Tom Tiffany (R-WI), Troy Nehls (R-TX), and Warren Davidson (R-OH). Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) led a Senate version of the letter, which has 14 total signers. The full text of the letter may be found below. ### Dear Colleague, Federal dollars are fueling rampant inflation and funding the Biden administration’s radical agenda. This includes empowering authoritarian bureaucrats at agencies like the IRS and FBI, implementing open-border policies that are threatening our communities, imposing COVID-19 mandates that shut down schools and are forcing our military servicemembers out of their jobs, and advancing self-destructive energy policies. As the September 30th federal funding deadline approaches, Republicans must do what is necessary to ensure that not one additional penny will go toward this administration’s radical, inflationary agenda. Any legislation that sets the stage for a “lame duck” fight on government funding gives Democrats one final opportunity to pass that agenda. Therefore, we, the undersigned, will oppose any continuing resolution that expires prior to the first day of the 118th Congress, or any appropriations package put forward in the remaining months of this Democrat-led Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/9/tcjapermanency,Buchanan Introduces Legislation to Make Republican Tax Cuts Permanent,2022-09-20,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Vern Buchanan announced today that he has introduced the TCJA Permanency Act (H.R.8913), legislation to make permanent tax cuts for individuals and small businesses originally enacted as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. Buchanan worked closely with the Ways and Means Committee Republican staff to introduce the signature tax cut legislation that top committee Republican Leader Kevin Brady says will “lock in low taxes for families and small businesses struggling with record inflation.” Without Congressional action, 23 different provisions of the 2017 Republican tax law are set to expire after 2025. “In 2017, Republicans delivered the most comprehensive overhaul of the U.S. tax code in more than three decades and achieved historic economic growth,” said Buchanan, second in seniority on the Ways and Means Committee. “Under the leadership of Leader Brady, we delivered historic tax relief to low and middle-income families and small businesses across all income levels. With Americans continuing to suffer under the weight of record-high inflation and an uncertain economic future, we need to provide some much-needed relief and certainty to hardworking families and ensure these tax cuts do not expire.” Buchanan is joined by Leader Brady; Congressman Jim Banks, chairman of the Republican Study Committee; Congressman Scott Perry, chairman of the House Freedom Caucus; and Congressman David Joyce, chairman of the Republican Governance Group as original cosponsors. Previously serving as chairman of the Ways and Means Tax Policy Subcommittee, Buchanan helped oversee the successful and smooth implementation of TCJA. During the 2017 tax reform debate, he focused on lowering tax rates for individuals and small businesses and on simplifying the tax code. According to the Tax Foundation, “most taxpayers will see a tax hike unless some or all provisions are extended.” Key Components of Buchanan’s Bill: Permanently lowers tax rates for individuals and families, allowing Americans at every income level to keep more of their hard-earned money Preserves the 20 percent deduction for small businesses, ensuring taxes won’t go up on Main Street businesses, which employ nearly half of the U.S. workforce Maintains the higher standard deduction, increasing the amount of tax-free income a middle-class family can earn Locks in the doubled child tax credit, further encouraging workforce participation Permanently simplifies the tax filing process, allowing 9 out of 10 Americans to get the full benefit of tax deductions without the headache of tracking receipts or itemizing Buchanan’s legislation also includes a number of important updates to a previous iteration of this bill, including several technical fixes and expanded eligible uses of 529 savings plans to help parents and students. Leader Kevin Brady said, “Unlike the cruel economy of President Biden, under the modernized Republican tax code of 2017 America’s economy was growing, paychecks were rising twice as fast as inflation, jobs were coming back from overseas, millions of Americans were lifted out of poverty and communities enjoyed record business investment here in America. Making the historic Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent will lock in low taxes for families and small businesses struggling with record inflation, and create certainty for the pro-growth provisions that leapfrogged America to the most competitive economy in the world.” TCJA reduced taxes on middle-class families and small businesses across the country and created nearly 5 million jobs in the two years following its passage. It also delivered the lowest unemployment rate in 50 years (3.5 percent), all-time low unemployment for African American and Hispanic workers and the fastest wage growth in a decade. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office also found that TCJA reduced federal tax rates for families across every income level while actually increasing the share of taxes paid by the top 1 percent of American households. According to the Tax Foundation, making TCJA’s individual tax provisions permanent will lead to 2.2 percent higher GDP in the long-term. “The results of TCJA were nothing short of stunning, but not surprising,” said Buchanan. “As someone who spent 30 years doing business, I know from experience that making our tax code more competitive means greater prosperity for small businesses and families.” As noted by the former president and CEO of the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), ""[Buchanan’s] sponsorship of the Main Street Fairness Act established the principle that tax reform should start with small business. That principal became one of the pillars of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act."" Buchanan has led five of the six Ways and Means Subcommittees and currently sits on the Joint Committee on Taxation, a small group of the most senior tax-writers in Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cammack-joins-rep-franklin-colleagues-letter-demanding-answers-pentagon,"Rep. Cammack Joins Rep. Franklin, Colleagues In Letter Demanding Answers From Pentagon Regarding Senior Official’s Racially Divisive Statements",2022-09-20,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) joined Rep. Scott Franklin (R-FL-15) in sending a letter to the Department of Defense, demanding answers from the Pentagon regarding troubling statements made by Kelisa Wing, the Department of Defense Education Activity’s Chief of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. A recent Fox News article uncovered a June 2020 tweet by Ms. Wing where she stated: ""I'm exhausted with these white folx in these [professional development] sessions this lady had the CAUdacity [Caucasian audacity] to say black people can be racist too."" Ms. Wing, who oversees curriculum at DoDEA, helped write children's books on defunding the police, Black Lives Matter, and White Privilege. In ""What is White Privilege?” she includes lines such as, ""If you are White you might feel bad about hurting others or you might feel afraid to lose this privilege."" The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) provides K-12 education for the military community in the U.S. and across the globe. In her role as Chief of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Ms. Wing has significant influence over what is taught to children in the DoD community, making her comments particularly concerning. ""These statements made by Ms. Wing, a senior official within the largest government agency, are truly disturbing,"" said Rep. Cammack. ""In a role that promotes the equitable treatment of all people, using language that creates divisiveness between races and weaponizes law enforcement is a serious offense that the DoDEA must take seriously. This egregious show of bias by Ms. Wing is antithetical to democracy at its core, and must be investigated by Secretary Austin immediately."" ""Kelisa Wing’s racially motivated statements are divisive and toxic,"" said Rep. Franklin. ""It's disappointing that the Pentagon failed to perform a thorough vetting of Ms. Wing's views and rhetoric before placing her in a leadership role involving education curriculum. It's yet another example of how the Biden administration has sought to politicize our military. Secretary Austin should investigate and take immediate action."" Original signees of the letter include Reps. Cammack, Austin Scott (R-GA), Bob Gibbs (R-OH), Chip Roy (R-TX), Dan Crenshaw (R-TX), Debbie Lesko (R-AZ), Doug Lamborn (R-CO), Gus M. Bilirakis (R-FL), Louie Gohmert (R-TX), Mary E. Miller (R-IL), Matt Gaetz (R-FL), Michael Waltz (R-FL), Mike Gallagher (R-WI), Neal P. Dunn, M.D. (R-FL), Pat Fallon (R-TX), Ralph Norman (R-SC), Ronny L. Jackson (R-TX), Scott DesJarlais (R-TN), Tom McClintock (R-CA), and Vicky Hartzler (R-MO). The full text of the letter may be found below. ### Dear Secretary Austin, We write you today to express concerns with Kelisa Wing, the Department of Defense Education Activity’s (DoDEA) Chief of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (CDEI). Recent news reports revealed racially divisive statements made by Wing. The role of the CDEI is to ensure military schools are an inclusive place for service members’ children, regardless of race. We are concerned that the comments made by Ms. Wing demonstrate an egregious bias which is contrary to the goals of DoDEA. In a tweet from July 23, 2020, Ms. Wing stated on Twitter “I’m so exhausted at these white folx in these PD [professional development] sessions this lady actually had the CAUdacity [Caucasian audacity] to say black people can be racist too.” Ms. Wing is listed as an author on several progressive children's books in a series called “Racial Justice In America.” One book is called “What Is White Privilege?” while another is “What Does it Mean To Defund the Police?’ The former has lines such as: “If you are White you might feel bad about hurting others or you might feel afraid to lose this privilege.” These racially divisive comments are directly counterproductive to the goal of a professional and diverse military. We must oppose racism wherever it occurs, but an approach that singles out one group or race is at odds with the military’s proud history of racial integration. For these reasons, we are concerned that Ms. Wing’s rhetoric is not in line with the values and standards of the DoD. Furthermore, we have reservations of the judgment of DoDEA Director Thomas Brady. Director Brady once stated, “Kelisa Wing is exactly the right person to lead our efforts in building on the foundational work done to support meaningful change in our organization,"" which shows either poor judgment or willful ignorance. Considering the statements made by Ms. Wing, we submit to you the following questions: Is the ideology expressed by Ms. Wing in “What is White Privilege?” and her subsequent statements consistent with the educational curriculum of the DoDEA? Does DoD endorse the ideologies shared by Ms. Wing on her Twitter posts regarding racial issues? Was DoDEA aware of the divisive statements made by Ms. Wing prior to her appointment to the position of CDEI in December of 2021? Has Ms. Wing’s radical ideology been integrated into the curriculum proposed by DoDEA? We look forward to your timely response to these questions.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/icymi-steube-pens-op-ed-in-the-herald-tribune-on-sarasotans-helping-to-defund-government-dog-abuse/,ICYMI: Steube Pens Op-Ed in The Herald Tribune on Sarasotans Helping to Defund Government Dog Abuse,2022-09-20,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"ICYMI: Steube Pens Op-Ed in The Herald Tribune on Sarasotans Helping to Defund Government Dog Abuse WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) penned an opinion piece on Sarasotans helping in the fight to defund government dog abuse. Read the Op-Ed in The Herald Tribune here or below. Rep. Steube recently introduced the Protecting Dogs Subjected to Experiments Act to prohibit taxpayer funding of any biological, medical, or behavioral research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that involves the use of a dog. Sarasotans help in the fight to defund government dog abuse The Herald Tribune I recently had the pleasure of meeting Huckleberry Finn, a 10-month-old beagle puppy rescued from the infamous government breeding facility, Envigo. Huck is Sarasota’s newest resident thanks to the kindness of his adopted owner, Jennifer, and the work of the Humane Society of Sarasota County. Our federal government, through the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has used Envigo beagles for cruel lab experiments. Disturbingly, NIH researchers prefer beagles because of their “convenient size and docile nature,” according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Research Integrity. In other words, because beagles are people-pleasing and forgiving, they’re easy to abuse. Reports of horrific NIH experiments include repeated cocaine injections, septic shock tests, releasing hundreds of hungry biting flies and infectious ticks on the dogs, cutting vocal cords out to prevent barking in the lab and forcing the dogs to inhale and ingest massive doses of experimental drugs. What’s more, the American taxpayer foots the bill for these shocking practices. Huck was destined to live a torturous life in a lab cage where he would have been subjected to these endless taxpayer-funded experiments until death. Fortunately, federal authorities shut Envigo down for widescale abuses and violations of law, which allowed Huck and 3,999 other Envigo beagle puppies to begin a new journey to safe, loving homes all across the United States. But Envigo is just one mass-breeding facility, and taxpayer-funded dog abuse is still alive and well in this country. Americans do not want our dogs abused, and they certainly don’t want their tax dollars paying for such experiments. Nearly half of the National Institutes of Health’s $40 billion budget is wasted on inefficient government animal experiments, many of which involve cruel, expensive and unnecessary testing on dogs. In fact, $2 million of its budget alone was spent on the experiments involving cocaine injections. The vast majority of Americans are opposed to dog testing, with a July 2022 poll finding that 73% of taxpayers across the political spectrum support efforts to reduce NIH dog experiments. And you know it’s a no-brainer when everyone from the Freedom Caucus to “The Squad” can come together on an issue. That’s why last month I introduced “The Protecting Dogs Subjected to Experiments Act.” The only way to be sure these cruel practices stop is to defund every dime of the National Institutes of Health’s dog testing program. My legislation will end the demand for mass-breeding facilities like the one Huck came from. It’s heartwarming to see how much love our community has given to the rescued Envigo puppies. The Humane Society of Sarasota County received 18 of the 4,000 beagles under a court-approved transfer plan for the United States Humane Society to secure placement for the dogs – and Sarasotans couldn’t have adopted them any faster! Hundreds of applications poured into the Humane Society of Sarasota County, and all 18 beagles were adopted within days. I’d like to thank each and every Floridian who sent in an application, and especially the 18 families who were selected to provide homes for the beagle puppies. Huck’s story had a happy ending, but there are thousands of puppies left in government breeding facilities just like Envigo. We must stop the money to stop the madness. I’m working to pass this legislation through the U.S. House, and I will continue to fight until all government dog abuse is completely defunded. U.S. Rep. Greg Steube represents Florida’s 17th Congressional District. He serves on the House Judiciary Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/9/buchanan-and-guthrie-we-will-commit-healthier-future,Buchanan and Guthrie: We Will Commit to a Healthier Future,2022-09-19,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Republican Healthy Future Task Force co-chairs, Congressman Vern Buchanan (FL-16) and Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), penned an op-ed for the September edition of The Ripon Forum providing an overview of the Task Force’s proposed solutions ahead of the House GOP’s Commitment to America rollout this Friday. “Democrats’ plans for socialized medicine and government-run health care will ultimately lead to fewer cures, worse care and limited choices. Republicans are prepared to improve the American health care system by getting policies signed into law that will lead to more cures and choices, better care and lower out-of-pocket costs for patients,” wrote the co-chairs in the op-ed. After spending more than a year engaging with patients, doctors and companies developing medical technologies and therapies, members of the Healthy Future Task Force released their solutions to modernize, personalize and improve health care to help Americans live healthier and longer lives. House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy established the 17-member Healthy Future Task Force as part of the “Commitment to America” legislative and oversight plan. Below are links to an overview of solutions from each Healthy Future Task Force subcommittee: Click HERE to view the Modernization Subcommittee solutions. Click HERE to view the Treatment Subcommittee solutions. Click HERE to view the Security Subcommittee solutions. Click HERE to view the Doctor-Patient Relationship Subcommittee solutions. Click HERE to view the Affordability Subcommittee solutions. You can read the full op-ed HERE or below. The Ripon Forum We Will Commit to a Healthier Future By Congressmen Vern Buchanan and Brett Guthrie Democrats’ attempts to “fix” problems in health care with a top-down, Washington-knows-best approach leave too many Americans without access to adequate care. After more than a year and a half of Democrat control in Washington, we have seen Democrats push for one-size-fits all, government-run health care that gives more power over patients’ health care to bureaucrats and enact laws that result in fewer medical cures for patients, higher launch prices for drugs, and subsidized health care for wealthy Americans. Republicans’ Healthy Future Task Force, which we co-chair, has a different vision that involves modernizing, personalizing, and improving the health care system to help Americans live healthier, longer lives. The Task Force has spent over a year engaging the American people and listening to their experiences with the health care system. Our members hosted roundtables and heard directly from doctors, patients, and companies working on cutting-edge technologies and therapies. With this information, we developed solutions to improve the health of all Americans by expanding choices, lowering costs, and modernizing treatment options. This approach is in stark contrast to Democrats’ big government health care failures. When looking at ways to improve treatment, the Task Force’s proposals focus on promoting and supercharging the availability of lifesaving cures and therapies. To increase access, we are working on lowering costs of these new treatments and promoting American-made medicines to prevent patients from being held hostage by the global supply chain crisis. Increasing choice, competition, and transparency is at the center of the Task Force’s solutions to make health care more affordable. Patients deserve to know the price they will pay before they receive care, which is why the Task Force is focused on unlocking a new, revolutionary wave of health care price transparency. Further, the Task Force has developed solutions to give businesses and employees more flexibility, including through association health plans and Health Savings Accounts, to offer or purchase, respectively, the most affordable health insurance policy that best meets employees’ needs. In addition to expanding access to innovative health care technologies, we want to safeguard and maintain expanded telehealth access that patients, especially seniors, benefitted greatly from during the pandemic. Our solutions also aim to improve our nation’s fiscal health by cracking down on taxpayer dollars wasted on improper payments in government health care programs. The Task Force believes public health security is national security. America learned a costly lesson regarding significant shortcomings within our public health system during the COVID-19 pandemic. We developed solutions to tackle future health crises by channeling the power of the private sector; using effective, transparent, accurate, and timely communications from government leaders to the American people during future pandemics; and ensuring our supply chains are secured. The Task Force also wants to see thorough investigations into COVID-19’s origins, policies that build upon the success of Operation Warp Speed, and accountability for the National Institutes of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While Democrats want to put bureaucrats in charge of patients’ health care, Republicans know the doctor-patient relationship is foundational to quality care. The Task Force wants to get Washington out of the doctor’s office and remove federal mandates to ensure patients remain the focus of visits. We also want to ensure patients have access to quality care by promoting programs that bolster our health care workforce and improve access to real-time care. Democrats’ plans for socialized medicine and government-run health care will ultimately lead to fewer cures, worse care, and limited choices. Republicans are prepared to improve the American health care system by getting policies signed into law that will lead to more cures and choices, better care, and lower out-of-pocket costs for patients.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://buchanan.house.gov/2022/9/buchanan-announces-2022-congressional-fire-and-rescueems-award-winners,Buchanan Announces 2022 Congressional Fire and Rescue/EMS Award Winners,2022-09-18,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"SARASOTA, 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 2012. “As first responders, fire departments and EMS 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. 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: Manatee County EMS District Chief Jason Evans Cedar Hammock Fire Inspector Adam Chrisman Hillsborough County Fire Captain Kevin Kahmeyer Career Service Award: Parrish Assistant Fire Chief Wayne Ownbey Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Shift Commander Gil Reyes Manatee County EMS Operations Chief Larry Luh Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Deputy Fire Marshall Ray Hansen Preservation of Life Award: Manatee County EMS Paramedic Lydia Wilkinson Manatee County EMS Charge Paramedic Karleigh Alday Manatee County EMS Charge Paramedic Joe Savasta Manatee County EMS Paramedic Carlos Santos Above & Beyond the Call of Duty Award: Manatee County EMS Charge Paramedic Joe Savasta Manatee County EMS Paramedic Carlos Santos Unit Citation: East Manatee Fire Lieutenant Steve Baker, East Manatee Firefighter Larry White and East Manatee Firefighter Michael Guard",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-receives-national-award-support-small-business,Bilirakis Receives National Award for Support of Small Business,2022-09-16,2022,2022-09,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 received the Advocate for American Business Award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for his bipartisan efforts to support small businesses throughout the nation. This prestigious award was presented to the lawmaker by Moore Hallmark, Vice President & Managing Director for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. ""Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, employing almost half of all Americans,"" said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. ""Right now, they are struggling with raging inflation, workforce shortages, supply chain disruptions and excessive government regulation. I will keep fighting to address these challenges while working to create an environment in which innovation, competition, and opportunity can thrive.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-colleagues-demand-answers-president-biden-regarding-impact-student,"Rutherford, Colleagues Demand Answers from President Biden Regarding the Impact of Student Loan Cancellation on Military Recruitment Levels",2022-09-16,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,John H. Rutherford,R000609,rutherford.house.gov,rutherford,https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman John Rutherford (FL-04) joined Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04), along with 18 colleagues, to demand answers from President Biden and Secretary Austin regarding the impact of the president's student loan cancellation program will have on the military's ability to effectively recruit. ""Providing servicemembers the opportunity to further their education at little to no cost is one of the primary ways we thank those who have served their nation,"" said Congressman Rutherford. ""President Biden's student loan forgiveness plan not only delegitimizes the efforts of hardworking Americans to pay off their loans, it undermines the effectiveness of this education benefit as a recruiting tool for our military at a time when recruitment levels are already dangerously low. I am proud to join my colleagues in demanding accountability for the harm these handouts will cause across all branches of our armed forces."" ""Military recruitment is hard enough. With Joe Biden's recent announcement to cancel up to $20,000 in student loan debt, I fear what may come next. The Armed Services have often used educational benefits as a top incentive in the recruitment process, and now that is gone,"" said Congressman Fallon. ""We deserve answers. It is imperative that we understand why this decision was made, who was consulted in the process, and what effects this will have on all branches of our military. I want to thank all my colleagues for joining me in this effort. We look forward to the Administration's response."" Co-signers include: Reps. Michael Waltz (FL-06), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Mike Gallagher (WI-08), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Mike Turner (OH-10), Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Don Bacon (NE-02), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Richard Hudson (NC-08), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Steve Womack (AR-03), Ben Cline (VA-06), Joe Wilson (SC-02), Rob Wittman (VA-01), Vicky Hartzler (MO-04), Van Taylor (TX-03), and Madison Cawthorn (NC-11). Read the full text of the letter here and below. Dear President Biden, We write you to share our concerns about the unintended consequences of your decision to cancel up to $20,000 of student loan debt per borrower. We are particularly concerned about the negative impact this will surely have on our nation's military and their ability to recruit and retain top talent. As you know, some of the most successful recruiting incentives for the military are the GI Bill and student loan forgiveness programs. The idea that the military will pay for schooling during or after completion of a service obligation is a driving factor in many individuals' decision to join one of the services. A recent estimate showed that as many as 178,000 servicemembers were eligible for some type of forgiveness. By forgiving such a wide swath of loans for borrowers, you are removing any leverage the Department of Defense maintained as one of the fastest and easiest ways to pay for higher education. We recognize the loan forgiveness programs have issues of their own, but this remains a top recruiting incentive. Currently, a mere 23 percent of the population is eligible to serve in the military. Even fewer of those have a propensity to serve. At the end of the month, the Army had only reached 66 percent of its recruiting goal for the year. The Navy, only 89 percent. It is no secret that each of the services continues to battle hardships in recruiting and now these problems will be exacerbated by removing the uniqueness of this benefit. As the services try to adopt unique approaches to tackle their recruiting challenges, including historic bonuses, it feels like their legs are being cut out from underneath them. With this in mind, we ask for you to provide us answers to the following questions: 1. Was the effect on military service considered in the development of the recent student loan forgiveness decision? 2. What is the administration's plan to develop incentives to augment the loss of those who might join the military to help pay off student loans? 3. What improvements are being made to ensure timely payments to those currently enrolled in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs for both active duty and reserve components? Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-greg-steube-announces-veteran-history-project-interview-featuring-army-veteran-phillip-moore/,Rep. Greg Steube Announces Veteran History Project Interview Featuring Army Veteran Phillip Moore,2022-09-16,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Greg Steube Announces Veteran History Project Interview Featuring Army Veteran Phillip Moore View the full interview here. NORTH PORT, Fla. — Congressman Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced a new interview in the Veterans History Project Series – a way to feature the accomplishments and military careers of Florida’s 17th District veterans. This interview features U.S. Army Veteran, Sgt. Phillip Moore of North Port, Florida. “As a fellow U.S. Army veteran who also served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, I thank Sgt. Moore for being part of the Veterans History Project. Operation Iraqi Freedom is an important part of American history, and our country is grateful for his first-hand account of serving in extremely high-risk situations in Iraq,” said Congressman Greg Steube. “I developed this relationship with this one particular guy who was the gunner in the Humvee I was driving,” Sgt. Moore recalled in his interview. “Day in and day out, at the beginning and end of every mission it was just him and I. He was my roommate. The second deployment, at the end of it, he ended up getting blown up and I had to carry him to a helicopter in the middle of the night. He could have got out on a medical disability, but he decided, when he found out that our unit was going again, he re-enlisted, to go again, so that I didn’t have to go without him.” “We have it really, really good here and it’s unfortunate that so many people squabble over many minute things, when there’s so many bigger issues in the entire world,” said Sgt. Moore. Please click here to watch the interview. Be sure to check Congressman Steube’s YouTube channel in the future for upcoming interviews. The Office of Congressman Greg Steube will submit the interview to the Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans. Initially started in 2000, the Veterans History Project aims to collect, preserve, and make accessible the personal accounts of the United States military veterans and Gold Star Families so that future generations may hear directly from the veterans and better understand their service. Researchers, scholars, and educators rely upon VHP collections as a primary source. The oral histories, photographs, manuscripts, and other original materials supplement historical texts and valued cultural resources. Veterans from all branches and ranks of the United States military who served in World War I through the more recent conflicts are eligible to participate. For more information on the VHP, please visit https://www.loc.gov/vets/. If you live in Florida’s 17th congressional district, please visit https://steube.house.gov/services/vhp to participate. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=2F57E5B9-F979-4BE0-BCFF-C3840889E420,Webster and Colleagues Introduce the Protect the UNBORN Act,2022-09-16,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Yesterday, Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, joined Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA), and nearly 90 members of Congress to introduce the “Protect the UNBORN (Undo the Negligent Biden Orders Right Now) Act. This bill would prohibit the implementation of and funding for President Biden’s pro-abortion Executive Orders. “Life is our most precious gift, something national leaders should work to protect, not undermine,” said Rep. Webster. “President Biden’s Pro-Abortion Executive Orders are another attempt by Democrat leaders to circumvent state laws and promote abortion up until birth. “I will continue to defend the rights of the unborn, to stand for life and oppose attempts to remove nearly all pro-life protections for the unborn at both the state and federal levels. I have helped create programs proven to equip at-risk families to establish safe, stable, and nurturing homes. I will keep fighting to protect the lives of the unborn, pregnant moms, children in the foster care system and young families, while also fighting against executive overreach.” Additional sponsors include: Representatives Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Rick Allen (GA-12), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Brian Babin (TX-36), Don Bacon (NE-02), Jim Baird (IN-04), Troy Balderson (OH-12), Jim Banks (IN-03), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Dan Bishop (NC-09), Lauren Boebert (CO-03), Mike Bost (IL-12), Ken Buck (CO-04), Kat Cammack (FL-03), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Madison Cawthorn (NC-11), Ben Cline (VA-06), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Rick Crawford (AR-01), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Jeff Duncan (SC-03), Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Ron Estes (KS-04), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Scott Franklin (FL-15), Matt Gaetz (FL-01), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Louie Gohmert (TX-01), Bob Good (VA-05), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Michael Guest (MS-03), Andy Harris (MD-01), Vicky Hartzler (MO-04), Jody Hice (GA-10), Bill Huizenga (MI-02), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Dusty Johnson (SD-At Large), Mike Johnson (LA-04), Jim Jordan (OH-04), Fred Keller (PA-12), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Trent Kelly (MS-01), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Jake LaTurner (KS-02), Debbie Lesko (AZ-08), Billy Long (MO-07), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Tracey Mann (KS-01), Brian Mast (FL-18), Lisa McClain (MI-10), David McKinley (WV-01), Carol Miller (WV-03), Mary Miller (IL-15), John Moolenaar (MI-4), Alex Mooney (WV-02), Barry Moore (AL-02), Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), Greg Murphy (NC-03), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Steven Palazzo (MS-04), August Pfluger (TX-11), Bill Posey (FL-08), Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), John Rose (TN-06), Matt Rosendale (MT-At-large), Chip Roy (TX-21), Austin Scott (GA-08), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Jason Smith (MO-08), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Greg Steube (FL-17), Glenn Thompson (PA-15), William Timmons (SC-04), Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02), Mike Waltz (FL-06), Randy Weber (TX-14), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), and Roger Williams (TX-25). Bill text can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=39B79FF8-050A-4CA9-9412-EE2C3523006C,"PHOTO RELEASE: Rep. Daniel Webster Earns ""A"" Grade from Moms for America",2022-09-16,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — This week, U.S. Representative Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, made the “Moms List” by earning an “A” grade on the Moms for America Action’s legislative report card. “Families are the foundational building blocks of our communities and our society,” said Webster. “I am honored to receive this recognition of my record of fighting to ensure parents are fully empowered to make the best decisions for their son or daughter. I will continue to champion policies that protect the parents’ role in making healthcare and education decisions on behalf of their minor children, expand parental choice in education, and help parents establish a strong, safe family environment.” “We are excited to give an A to Rep. Daniel A. Webster (R-FL) as we release our first-ever Congressional Report Card,” said Kimberly Fletcher, President of Moms for America. “Our Report Card pulled no punches. From Medical Mandates to Mask Mandates, from radical Critical Race Theory to Gender Equality, from the right to keep and bear arms, to School Choice—our 2022 Report Card finds both political parties lacking the will to take necessary steps to protect the interests of America’s moms.” Moms for America Action Report Card The Moms for America Action Report Card examined 20 votes taken by the 116th Congress and ranked members of the House and Senate based on 10 key votes. The goal of the report card is to assign a letter grade so that constituents know what actions their legislators have taken on critical issues facing mothers in America. For information on actions taken by Rep. Daniel Webster visit www.mfaaction.com/congressional-report-card/. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FFA18382-0020-4A92-8B16-D250DDE9558A,Webster Bill to Help Seniors Passes House,2022-09-16,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3173, the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2021, cosponsored by Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, with broad bipartisan support. This bill streamlines and modernizes the authorization process for Medicare Advantage plans – including establishing an electronic process. Currently, physicians and health practitioners must get prior authorization before a Medicare Advantage patient can receive certain health services, including surgery and medications. “Strengthening and modernizing the Medicare program is one of my priorities, I serve the oldest district in the country with the highest number of seniors” said Rep. Webster. “Patients need timely care, and the burdensome prior authorization process can take weeks with no accountability, putting seniors’ health at risk. This bill removes bureaucratic red-tape and ensures our seniors don’t spend unnecessary times waiting on authorization for their care. I hope the Senate takes swift action on this bill to bring it one step closer to becoming law for our seniors.” H.R. 3173 also increases accountability by requiring an annual reporting on the response time the prior authorization process takes so Congress can better monitor and make changes if timeliness isn’t improving. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cammack-joins-rep-stefanik-colleagues-sending-letter-ceos-visa-amex,"Rep. Cammack Joins Rep. Stefanik, Colleagues In Sending Letter To CEOs of Visa, Amex & Mastercard Regarding Classification Of Gun Sales",2022-09-15,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) joined House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) and 101 Republican colleagues in sending a letter to the CEOs of Visa, American Express, and Mastercard regarding their implementation of a classification of gun sales. The letter seeks to ensure that this is not used to track law-abiding gun owners or infringe on their constitutional rights. The letter points out that previous attempts to create firearm-specific codes have been denied, even on appeal, and warnings suggest a new code would unduly burden smaller firearm retailers. As credit card companies implement these codes, the letter requests answers to multiple questions, including whether Amex, MasterCard, and Visa support lawful purchases and protect the privacy and legal decisions of their consumers regarding this implementation. ""To say it’s concerning that these major credit card companies are now tracking the lawful sale of guns through their customers' transactions would be a massive understatement,"" said Rep. Cammack. ""Visa, American Express, and Mastercard are used by nearly every debit and credit cardholder in the U.S, and the American people deserve answers about the new merchant codes and the companies' roles in reviewing Americans' purchase decisions. I’m proud to defend Floridians’ and Americans’ Second Amendment rights."" ""I am adamantly opposed to this attempt to track the information of law-abiding gun owners and am calling out this attempt to infringe on our Constitutional, Second Amendment rights,"" said Rep. Stefanik. ""As Far-Left gun grabbing politicians seek to further erode our Constitution, I’m working to ensure credit card companies are not aiding in their anti-Second Amendment agenda. I am demanding immediate answers to protect American citizens' ability to exercise their Constitutional right to bear arms without fear that the Far Left is tracking their information or that this information will be used against them. In the face of the unconstitutional anti-gun agenda, I will always stand up for New Yorkers and all Americans’ rights.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-joins-senator-scott-colleagues-and-hispanic-democracy,"Diaz-Balart Joins Senator Scott, Colleagues, and Hispanic Democracy Activists Demanding that President Biden Support Freedom, Democracy & Security in Latin America",2022-09-15,2022,2022-09,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 (R-FL-25) joined Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio, Representatives María Elvira Salazar and Carlos A. Giménez, as well as Hispanic community leaders from Florida in a press conference in front of the White House calling on President Joe Biden to abandon his policy of appeasement and support the movements for freedom, democracy, and security in Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Colombia. Watch the full press conference HERE. Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart said, “The Biden Administration continues to fail those who courageously struggle for freedom, human rights, and democracy in some of the world's most oppressive environments of Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. In the wake of the historic July 11 protests in Cuba, and as hundreds of political prisoners still languish in prison, the administration is planning to fire as many as 30 people at the Office of Cuba Broadcasting. Additionally, for a full year, the administration has failed to allow unfettered internet access to the Cuban people to counter the regime's internet blackouts, and the administration has weakened sanctions by expanding travel, remittances, and charter flights to Cuba. The Biden Administration should cease appeasing the world's worst actors in our hemisphere, and instead stand in strong, unequivocal solidarity with the heroes risking everything to be free.” Senator Rick Scott said, “Joe Biden has abandoned Latin America and has chosen to appease dictators in Cuba and Venezuela. He’s supported socialist candidates in Colombia and done the bare minimum to confront Daniel Ortega in Nicaragua. Today, as our nation marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month, I am proud to stand beside my colleagues in Congress and these brave Floridians as we renew our urgent calls for President Biden to reverse course and finally stand for freedom, democracy and security in the Western Hemisphere. “If Joe Biden is serious about supporting freedom and democracy in Latin America, he can show that today by calling for the immediate passage of my DEMOCRACIA Act, closing the Cuban embassy in Washington D.C., re-designating FARC as a terrorist organization, blocking access to U.S. assets to anyone involved or complicit in human rights violations or corruption in Venezuela and Nicaragua, and revoking licenses to U.S. companies operating in Cuba and Venezuela. If President Biden did all five of these things today, then our hemisphere would be a safer place and the freedom movements in Latin America would be emboldened. The fight for freedom and democracy in Latin America demands the support of the United States and we won’t stop fighting to reverse Biden’s failed appeasement agenda that is standing in the way of progress and stability in our hemisphere.” Senator Marco Rubio said, “The Biden Administration’s policy of appeasement with far-left tyrants and would-be tyrants in Latin America emboldens their grip on power, encourages drug trafficking in our region, and promotes illegal mass migration across our unsecured border. The United States, and democracies in our region, are less safe because of this administration’s desire to turn a blind eye to the needs of our hemisphere. We need real leadership and real solutions, not left-leaning policies from Marxist apologists.” Congressman Carlos A. Giménez said, “Biden has abandoned Latin America and with devastating effect. The lack of Biden’s leadership in the hemisphere is worsening our border crisis, plummeting the regional economy, and making Latin America vulnerable to nefarious actors such as China, Russia, and Iran. When our regional partners don’t find a reliable ally in the United States, one that actively works to defend freedom, democracy, and capitalism, Latin America is left with no choice but to shift leftward. We’re already seeing this dangerous shift happen in several key partners. Biden is failing Latin America. Biden is failing our hemisphere. America is less safe because of his abdication of leadership. It’s time for America to lead again in the hemisphere.” Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar said, “President Biden is absent, weak, and refuses to lead in Latin America. He has failed to prevent the breakdown of democracy in Nicaragua, has returned to Obama’s disastrous Cuba policy, has no strategy to restore democracy to Venezuela, and is applauding the rise of a Marxist terrorist in Colombia.” Sylvia Iriondo said, “As long as the Cuban communist regime remains in power, there will be no peace, security and stability in our hemisphere.” Rosa Maria Payá said, “We call upon President Biden to take sides with Cuban citizens who are held captive by the communist dictatorship. The failure to act has contributed to the ongoing largest migratory crisis in the regime’s history. Appeasement hasn’t stopped this threat to US national security it is time to support freedom for the Cuba People.” Orlando Gutiérrez-Boronat said, “The Cuban people are rising and they must not be abandoned!” Ernesto Ackerman said, “For years, our organization IVAC has been sounding the alarm that just 1,600 miles from our borders in Venezuela, a union of countries that detest the United States of America, our values, Democracy and freedom, are being united. I want to thank Senator Rick Scott for organizing this important press conference at a turbulent time for the United States.” Norma Reno said, “I want to thank Senator Scott for supporting the Venezuelan people and fighting for freedom and democracy. The Maduro regime has become more and more dangerous to the region especially now that Russia and Iran have opened operations in Venezuela.” Muñeca Fuentes said, “The longest and darkest night of human rights violations and heinous crimes in Nicaragua started back in 1979 when the Sandinistas took over with the help of the Carter administration. Since then, thousands have died and disappeared. The Sandinistas-FSLN are a narco-terrorist organization and should be included in the list of terrorists for they are a danger to our national security.” Fabio Andrade said, “As an American born in Colombia, we speak very loud together with Senator Scott to have FARC, a criminal group, back on the terrorist watch list.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-se-une-al-senador-scott-colegas-y-activistas-hispanos-por,"Díaz-Balart se une al senador Scott, colegas y activistas hispanos por la democracia para exigir que el presidente Biden apoye la libertad, la democracia y la seguridad en América Latina",2022-09-15,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– El congresista Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL-25) se unió a los senadores Rick Scott y Marco Rubio, los representantes María Elvira Salazar y Carlos A. Giménez, así como a líderes de la comunidad hispana de Florida en una conferencia de prensa frente la Casa Blanca donde le piden al presidente Joe Biden que abandone su política de apaciguamiento y apoye los movimientos por la libertad, la democracia y la seguridad en Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua y Colombia. Vea la conferencia de prensa completa AQUÍ. El Congresista Mario Díaz-Balart dijo: “La Administración Biden sigue fallando a quienes valientemente luchan por la libertad, los derechos humanos y la democracia en algunos de los entornos más opresivos del mundo, como Cuba, Venezuela y Nicaragua. A raíz de las históricas protestas del 11 de julio en Cuba, y mientras cientos de presos políticos aún languidecen en prisión, la administración planea despedir hasta 30 personas de la Oficina de Transmisiones a Cuba. Además, durante un año completo, la administración no ha permitido el acceso ilimitado a Internet al pueblo cubano para contrarrestar los apagones de Internet del régimen, y la administración ha debilitado las sanciones al expandir los viajes, las remesas y los vuelos chárter a Cuba. La Administración Biden debería dejar de apaciguar a los peores actores del mundo en nuestro hemisferio y, en cambio, mostrar una solidaridad fuerte e inequívoca con los héroes que arriesgan todo para ser libres”. El Senador Rick Scott dijo: “Joe Biden ha abandonado América Latina y ha optado por apaciguar a los dictadores de Cuba y Venezuela. Ha apoyado a candidatos socialistas en Colombia y no ha hecho nada para enfrentar a Daniel Ortega en Nicaragua. Hoy, cuando nuestra nación marca el comienzo del Mes de la Herencia Hispana, me enorgullece estar junto a mis colegas del Congreso y estos valientes floridanos mientras renovamos nuestros llamados urgentes para que el Presidente Biden cambie de rumbo y finalmente defienda la libertad, la democracia y la seguridad en el Hemisferio oeste. “Si Joe Biden se toma en serio el apoyo a la libertad y la democracia en América Latina, puede demostrarlo hoy al pedir la aprobación inmediata de mi Ley DEMOCRACIA, cerrar la embajada de Cuba en Washington D.C., volver a designar a las FARC como organización terrorista, bloquear el acceso a activos estadounidenses a cualquier persona involucrada o cómplice en violaciones de derechos humanos o corrupción en Venezuela y Nicaragua, y revocar licencias a empresas estadounidenses que operan en Cuba y Venezuela. Si el Presidente Biden hiciera las cinco cosas hoy, entonces nuestro hemisferio sería un lugar más seguro y los movimientos por la libertad en América Latina se fortalecerían. La lucha por la libertad y la democracia en América Latina exige el apoyo de Estados Unidos y no dejaremos de luchar para revertir la fallida agenda de apaciguamiento de Biden que se interpone en el camino del progreso y la estabilidad en nuestro hemisferio”. El Senador Marco Rubio dijo: “La política de apaciguamiento de la Administración Biden hacia tiranos de la extrema izquierda y también hacia posibles tiranos en Latinoamérica alientan su control del poder, fomenta el narcotráfico en nuestra región y promueve la migración masiva ilegal a través de nuestra frontera, la cual no es segura. EE.UU. y las democracias de nuestra región están menos seguros debido al deseo de esta administración de hacerse los de la vista gorda ante las necesidades en nuestro hemisferio. Necesitamos un liderazgo real y soluciones reales, no políticas de izquierda de apologistas marxistas”. El Congresista Carlos A. Giménez dijo: ““Biden ha abandonado a Latinoamérica de una manera devastadora. La falta de liderazgo de Biden en el hemisferio está empeorando la crisis fronteriza, desplomando la economía regional y haciendo a América Latina vulnerable a actores nefarios como la China, Rusia, e Irán. Cuando nuestros aliados regionales no encuentran en los Estados Unidos un aliado que defienda la libertad, la democracia y el capitalismo, la América Latina no tiene ninguna otra opción que girarse hacia la izquierda. Ya estamos viendo este cambio en varios de nuestros aliados claves en la región. Biden está fallando a Latinoamérica. Biden está fallando nuestro hemisferio. Los Estados Unidos está menos seguro por la abdicación de su liderazgo. Es tiempo para los Estados Unidos volver a ser líder en el hemisferio”. La Congresista María Elvira Salazar dijo: “El presidente Biden está ausente, es débil y se niega a liderar en América Latina. No ha logrado evitar el colapso de la democracia en Nicaragua, ha vuelto a la desastrosa política hacia Cuba de Obama, no tiene una estrategia para restaurar la democracia en Venezuela y está aplaudiendo el ascenso a la presidencia de un terrorista marxista en Colombia”. Sylvia Iriondo dijo: “Mientras el régimen comunista cubano permanezca en el poder, no habrá paz, seguridad y estabilidad en nuestro hemisferio”. Rosa María Payá dijo: “Hacemos un llamado al Presidente Biden para que tome partido por los ciudadanos cubanos que están cautivos por la dictadura comunista. La falta de acción ha contribuido a la mayor crisis migratoria en curso en la historia del régimen. El apaciguamiento no ha detenido esta amenaza a la seguridad nacional de los Estados Unidos, es hora de apoyar la libertad del pueblo cubano”. Orlando Gutiérrez-Boronat dijo: “¡El pueblo cubano se está levantando y no debe ser abandonado!” Ernesto Ackerman dijo: “Durante años, nuestra organización IVAC ha estado haciendo sonar la alarma de que a solo 1,600 millas de nuestras fronteras en Venezuela, una unión de países que detesta a los Estados Unidos de América, nuestros valores, la democracia y la libertad, se están uniendo. Quiero agradecer al Senador Rick Scott por organizar esta importante conferencia de prensa en un momento turbulento para los Estados Unidos”. Norma Reno dijo: “Quiero agradecer al Senador Scott por apoyar al pueblo venezolano y luchar por la libertad y la democracia. El régimen de Maduro se ha vuelto cada vez más peligroso para la región, especialmente ahora que Rusia e Irán han abierto operaciones en Venezuela”. Muñeca Fuentes dijo: “La noche más larga y oscura de violaciones de derechos humanos y crímenes atroces en Nicaragua comenzó en 1979 cuando los sandinistas tomaron el poder con la ayuda de la administración Carter. Desde entonces, miles han muerto y desaparecido. Los Sandinistas-FSLN son una organización narcoterrorista y deben ser incluidos en la lista de terroristas porque son un peligro para nuestra seguridad nacional”. Fabio Andrade dijo: “Como estadounidense nacido en Colombia, hablamos muy alto junto con el Senador Scott para que las FARC, un grupo criminal, vuelvan a estar en la lista de organizaciones terroristas” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-earns-a-from-moms-for-america/,Rep. Steube Earns A+ from Moms for America,2022-09-15,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Steube Earns A+ from Moms for America WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced he earned an A+ on the Moms for America Action Congressional Ratings Report Card. The report card graded all 535 Members of Congress on critical issues facing the mothers in America. “The Democrats will stop at nothing to attack our family values. House Democrat leadership has proven time and time again that the issues affecting America’s moms rank last. In Congress, I’ve pushed back on the Democrats’ anti-family agenda and supported policies that protect the interests of America’s moms – school choice, the right to keep and bear arms, and women’s sports,” said Rep. Greg Steube. Kimberly Fletcher, president of Moms for America, said, “We are excited to give an A+ to Rep. Greg Steube as we release our first-ever Congressional Report Card. The hundreds of thousands of moms across Florida and the nation will be glad to know that Rep. Steube is committed to protecting mothers. Moms are typically responsible for providing for their children’s education, their diets, their healthcare, and their safety. Rep. Steube has a strong record of supporting legislation that fights for America’s moms.” The Moms for America Action Report Card examined votes taken and ranked U.S. Congressmen and Senators based on key votes. Passing HR 1319, what Moms for America refers to as the “Crippling Inflation Act,” is killing the pocketbooks of mothers of all economic status. Another vote against Moms was HR 7691, which sent billions of dollars to Ukraine, while America’s moms are struggling to put food on the table and gas in their minivans. Rep. Greg Steube made the right call and earned a place among the “A+ List” for votes this year. To view the 2022 Congressional Report Card in its entirety, please click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z