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://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bean-another-great-year-fighting-northeast-floridians,Congressman Bean: Another Great Year of Fighting for Northeast Floridians,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Aaron Bean,B001314,bean.house.gov,bean,https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— U.S. Congressman Bean (FL-04) led the fight in the House this year to deliver pro‑growth, pro‑jobs, and pro‑freedom policies that strengthen the economy for working families and put America First.

Reflecting on the past year, Congressman Bean said, “2025 has been nothing short of historic, and it is the honor of my lifetime to serve as Northeast Florida’s Congressman in our nation’s capital. As we look toward the new year, rest assured I will continue working every day to grow our economy, defend our freedoms, lower costs for hardworking Northeast Floridians, and hold Crazy Town accountable. I’ll keep fighting to put the Fourth District first.”

Congressman Bean’s 2025 Highlights:

SIGNED INTO LAW: Working Families Tax Cut landmark legislation to lock in permanent tax cuts that shield families, seniors, and small businesses from rising costs.

SIGNED INTO LAW: Rescissions Act of 2025 to rescind $9 billion in unnecessary, wasteful federal funds identified by DOGE.

HOUSE PASSED: 404 Permitting Act Amendment to protect the ability of states, like Florida, to continue their state 404 Permitting Programs.

HOUSE PASSED: TRACE Act to ensure parents know how foreign funding is impacting their child’s classroom and to keep foreign nations from reaching America’s youth.

HOUSE PASSED: Claiming Age Clarity Act to clarify age-based eligibility rules for federal benefits, like Social Security, to reduce confusion and delays.

INTRODUCED: LEO K9 Protection Act to strengthen penalties for harming law‑enforcement K9s and enhance protections for police working dogs.

INTRODUCED: Apples to Apples Comparison Act to ensure consumers have accurate data when deciding between Medicare Advantage (MA) and Fee-for-Service (FFS) for their healthcare coverage.

INTRODUCED: FSA‑HRA Act to expand flexibility for families to use tax-advantaged savings accounts for health-related expenses.

INTRODUCED: PROMPT Act to ensure Medicare beneficiaries receive timely, clear information about their services and costs.

INTRODUCED: We Want Our Healthcare Money Back Act to require regular reporting on Medicare and Medicaid fraud to protect taxpayer dollars.

INTRODUCED: More Affordable Care (MACA) Act to expand access to lower‑cost health‑care options for families and small businesses.

In addition, Congressman Bean’s office returned $8,312,262 to constituents this year through casework and assistance with federal agencies — delivering real results for families across Northeast Florida.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-introduces-bill-to-designate-anti-communism-week-and-honor-victims-of-communist-regimes,Sen. Rick Scott Introduces Bill to Designate Anti-Communism Week and Honor Victims of Communist Regimes,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott announced the introduction of legislation to designate the first week of every November as Anti-Communism Week and request an annual presidential proclamation recognizing the victims of communist regimes worldwide. This bill builds on President Trump’s 2025 Anti-Communism Week proclamation and reinforces America’s commitment to freedom, liberty, and dignity across the globe. Senator Marsha Blackburn is a cosponsor in the Senate. Companion legislation is being led in the House of Representatives by Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Communism is one of the most destructive and deadly ideologies in human history, responsible for the suffering and deaths of millions while crushing freedom wherever it takes hold. As a nation founded on liberty and individual freedoms, we must never forget these horrors or allow dangerous ideals to be repackaged, idealized, or sold to future generations. Designating Anti-Communism Week serves as a reminder of this evil ideology and reaffirms America’s unwavering commitment to freedom and opportunity for all.”

Senator Marsha Blackburn said, “Communism has claimed over 100 million lives by suppressing freedom, erasing faith, and destroying the prosperity that comes from hard work. The Anti-Communism Week Act would designate November 2 through 8 as a time to honor those victims, stand firm for liberty, and ensure this destructive ideology ends up on the ash heap of history.”

Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar said, “Communism has left a trail of death, suffering, and shattered nations across the globe, from Cuba to China, from Venezuela to North Korea. Too many Americans, especially in our schools, are now dangerously unaware of the real history and real horrors behind these failed systems. That’s why I’m proud to lead the Anti-Communism Week bill, which formally designates a week when we will reaffirm America’s commitment to freedom, educate our youth about the deadly consequences of communist ideology, and honor the memory of the tens of millions who have died under it. If we lose sight of history, we risk repeating it. This week isn’t just symbolic, it’s a necessary stand for liberty and truth.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2025/12/buchanan-applauds-280-000-dot-grant-to-improve-pedestrian-safety-in-bradenton,"Buchanan Applauds $280,000 DOT Grant to Improve Pedestrian Safety in Bradenton",2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“Strong Communities Start with Safe Streets”

Combined with the City’s Match, the $350,000 Investment will Support a Citywide Safety Action Plan to Protect Pedestrians, Cyclists and Seniors.

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan applauded the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for awarding $280,000 to the City of Bradenton through the Safe Streets and Roads for All program to address longstanding pedestrian, bicycle and traffic safety challenges. With the City of Bradenton’s 20 percent match, the total investment will reach $350,000.

The funding will support Bradenton’s Safety Action Plan and Countermeasure Demonstration Project, a citywide effort to identify safety risks and test practical solutions to reduce crashes and make streets safer.

“Strong communities start with safe streets,” said Buchanan. “This grant will help Bradenton make targeted improvements that protect seniors, families and everyone who uses our roads by taking a closer look at traffic risks and testing real-world solutions that make it safer for people to walk, bike and drive.”

“We appreciate Congressman Vern Buchanan and his team for their support in securing this funding for Bradenton,” said Mayor Brown. “This grant gives us the opportunity to take a closer look at traffic safety across the city and test practical improvements to make our streets safer for everyone.”

Between 2018 and 2022, Bradenton recorded 27 roadway fatalities, underscoring the need for targeted, data-driven safety improvements. This equates to a fatality rate of 9.7 per 100,000 residents, highlighting ongoing risks for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists across the city.

To address these challenges, the funding will support a citywide Safety Action Plan and the testing of practical safety improvements. This effort will allow the city to better understand traffic risks, pilot proven countermeasures and use the results to guide long-term safety investments.

Buchanan is a respected leader in Florida’s business community and has created thousands of jobs over the course of his career. He previously chaired both the Florida Chamber of Commerce and the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce and currently serves as Vice Chairman of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405112,"U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Year-End Report: Fighting to Lower the Cost of Living, Delivering Hurricane Recovery Aid,  Answering the Call for Immigration Assistance, Serving Tampa Bay Neighbors Directly",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"TAMPA, Fla. – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) announced today that her team worked to deliver over $24.4 million in aid, benefits and refunds to veterans, seniors, small businesses, and families in 2025. Additionally, $1,604,681,095 in federal grants were secured for disaster assistance, veterans' support services, early childhood learning through Tinker K-8 and Head Start, and public transportation. Castor credits her team, local partners, and nonprofits for helping win significant federal investments for the Tampa Bay area in a year when the Trump Administration significantly altered the federal grant landscape.

“The success of the Tampa Bay area relies on strong collaboration with our local partners and nonprofits. From the University of South Florida to Moffitt Cancer Center to Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) to Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART), our community received 371 federal grants in 2025. In addition to securing these grants, we successfully contested the Trump Administration’s closure of the Pinellas Job Corps Center for hardworking students and its illegal federal funding freezes on many local organizations so they could continue their critical work.

“In the wake of Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton, our neighbors, small businesses, and local partners worked in tandem with the federal partners to recover and begin rebuilding across the Tampa Bay area. I am proud to have championed $965,630,000 in federal community development disaster recovery grants, including $158 million for the City of St. Petersburg and $709 million for Hillsborough County. Team Castor honored 30 Tampa Bay area Hurricane Heroes who selflessly served their neighbors after the hurricanes. The Tampa Bay area is resilient, and I am thankful for the generosity of our community as we continue our recovery.

“This year, I was proud to advocate for passage of legislation to save the Affordable Care Act tax credits, lower flood insurance costs, protect constituents’ personal identifiable information, lower electric bills, increase investments in lifesaving health research and protect our Florida coasts from offshore drilling. My 34 pieces of legislation introduced were informed by community needs and the best interests of Florida families.

""I am grateful for my incredible teams – in Tampa, St. Pete and in the Nation’s Capital – for their work on behalf of Tampa Bay families. I am particularly proud of the casework assistance we provided to neighbors who continue to grapple with higher costs, unprecedented cruelty and illegal actions of the Trump Administration. My team assisted with over 700 immigration-related cases to ensure our neighbors have the guidance and assistance they need to navigate the Trump Administration’s chaotic policy changes. My team is always available to take neighbors' calls and respond to their emails. We responded to over 110,000 constituent emails regarding food assistance, concerns about the cost of living, the Republican government shutdown, the Republican Health Care Crisis and the concerning actions of the Trump Administration. I also enjoyed hosting four telephone town halls, two in-person town halls, four virtual town halls and listening sessions.

“Neighbor engagement with my office is paramount to my work. I am grateful for their voices. Thank you to my team, my partners and our neighbors for illustrating why the 14th District of Florida is the best in the nation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/new-study-finds-us-immigration-enforcement-hurting-american-citizens,"New Study Finds U.S. Immigration Enforcement Is Hurting American Citizens, Identifies the Dignity Act as the Solution",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Maria Elvira Salazar,S000168,salazar.house.gov,salazar,https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — A newly released national survey finds that current U.S. immigration enforcement policies are increasingly harming American citizens and putting their families at risk.

The report, Collateral Damage: How Immigration Policy Harms U.S. Citizens in Mixed-Status Marriages, released by American Families United, is the first comprehensive, data-driven examination of U.S. citizens married to non-citizens. Based on the 2025 AFU National Survey of Mixed-Status Couples, the study documents widespread emotional, financial, medical, and spiritual hardship caused by an immigration system that offers no viable legal pathway for these families, and explicitly identifies the Dignity Act of 2025 as the solution.

“This report exposes a system that is failing American citizens,” said Rep. María Elvira Salazar. “The Dignity Act puts American families first, restores order and common sense to immigration enforcement, and ensures U.S. citizens are no longer separated from their loved ones and treated as collateral damage.”

American Families Are Becoming Collateral Damage:

The study finds that long-established, law-abiding mixed-status families are being swept up in an enforcement surge that forces U.S. citizens to choose between separation or leaving the country together. Since January 2025, the share of families discussing departure has jumped from 45% to 81%.

Key Findings:

Current immigration enforcement is harming American citizens and destabilizing families.

Most mixed-status families have lived in the U.S. for more than a decade, and over half are raising three or more U.S. citizen children.

Nearly 60% of non-citizen spouses are primary caregivers, meaning deportation would strip families of essential care and stability.

Hardship is nearly universal: 97.5% reported emotional hardship; 78% reported financial hardship; over half reported medical or spiritual hardship.

Dignity Puts American Families First:

The study makes clear that Congress has a solution. The Dignity Act of 2025 (H.R. 4393), which includes the American Families United Act, allows non-citizen spouses to regularize their status without the threat of prolonged separation.

The Dignity Act of 2025 will:

Protect U.S. citizens first by keeping families together

Promote family unity while strengthening the rule of law

Exclude anyone with a criminal record or national security risk

More than 2.6 million Americans live in mixed-status families. The Dignity Act ensures immigration policy works in the best interest of American families—keeping them together, restoring common sense, and putting U.S. citizens first. You can read the full study here.

Dignity Act of 2025 Endorsements:

The Dignity Act of 2025 (H.R. 4393) now has support from dozens of Members of Congress and more than 50 national stakeholder groups.

The groups and organizations include:

A-1 Global Holdings, American Business Immigration Council, American Families United, American Legion, Americans for Prosperity, American Seniors Housing Association, Asian American Christian Collaborative, Brick Industry Association, Evangelical Immigration Table, FWD.us, IEEE-USA, Jewish Federation of North America, National Association of Evangelicals, National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, National Retail Federation, Niskanen Center, Small Business Majority, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, World Relief, and many others.

Resources:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-wilson-s-statement-on-the-white-house-threats-to-withhold-smithsonian-funding,Rep. Wilson’s Statement on the White House Threats to Withhold Smithsonian Funding,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Frederica S. Wilson,W000808,wilson.house.gov,wilson,https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson issued a statement regarding the White House’s threats to withhold Smithsonian funding:

“This White House is advancing a vision of America rooted in white supremacy and exclusion. This administration has shown nothing but contempt for immigrants, diversity, and Black people. And all these threats to withhold funding are just about whitewashing our history. But America was built on the backs of immigrants! Black immigrants were brought here in chains as slaves to build this nation. We can never forget that, and today, we’re an immigrant-rich country. So, as this White House goes after all the museums, we must stand up and protect the truth. All Americans must unite to protect our history and protect the Smithsonian’s independence to ensure unbiased content across its institutions. When we lose our history, we lose our democracy. And we must fight back and stand up for our history and democracy. The soul of our nation is on the line!”",1,2026-04-16T05:48:36Z,2026-04-16T05:50:08Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-applauds-trump-administration-actions-to-protect-america-s-roadways-crack-down-on-cdls-issued-to-illegal-aliens,Sen. Rick Scott Applauds Trump Administration Actions to Protect America’s Roadways & Crack Down on CDLs Issued to Illegal Aliens,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem praising their leadership and the Trump administration’s actions to improve roadway safety by cracking down on the reckless issuance of commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) to illegal aliens after the deadly crash in Florida caused by an illegal alien who was issued a CDL license in California. The administration’s life-saving actions to keep our roadways safe and ensure only qualified drivers operate commercial vehicles on America’s roadways as federal audits and enforcement operations uncovered widespread safety failures by states issuing CDLs to illegal and unqualified drivers.

Read the letter HERE or below:

Dear Secretary Duffy and Secretary Noem:

Thank you for the leadership you, your agencies, and President Trump have shown in advancing policies to make American roadways safe again. I appreciate your efforts to restore safety to our roads following the dangerous Obama-era policy that allowed drivers lacking English proficiency to operate commercial motor vehicles without the ability to comprehend basic traffic signs or speak our language.

Earlier this year, three innocent people in my state of Florida were killed by an illegal alien who was granted a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in the state of California. This gut-wrenching tragedy should never have happened, and I appreciate you both taking swift action to ensure this can never happen again.

One vital action in preventing the recurrence of this tragedy was the Department of Transportation’s emergency action this September, restricting eligibility for nondomiciled learner’s permits and CDLs in response to the ongoing nationwide audit by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This much-needed audit has already uncovered blatant disregard for public safety by certain states – especially California, which improperly issued more than 25% of its non-domiciled CDLs.

I was also grateful to see the Department of Homeland Security partner with state and local law enforcement to actively address the threat posed by these illegal and unqualified drivers. During September’s joint operation between Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, not only were 91 illegal aliens found to be operating a commercial vehicle with a CDL, but one illegal alien possessed a Real ID-compliant CDL issued by the state of New York to “No Name Given.” The New York Department of Motor Vehicles confirmed that this license was authentic.

The reckless issuance of these CDLs during the previous administrations is clearly a widespread problem. This licensing failure was further highlighted by Operation Midway Blitz, a joint ICE-Indiana State Police operation. As of October 30, this operation resulted in the arrest of 223 illegal aliens on Indiana highways, 40 of whom possessed CDLs.

Thankfully, your agencies and the current administration are working hard to address these very real safety issues and protect American drivers by getting unsafe and unqualified drivers off our roadways.

However, it is deeply concerning that the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) reportedly uses the very same drivers that your agencies have worked to keep off our country’s roads in order to protect American lives. These reports indicate the USPS has become dependent on a CDL workforce made up of illegal aliens, and, as a result, it is now rescinding its temporary ban on these same employees after only a few short days, despite guidance from the administration.

Your agencies have shown a commitment to addressing this threat, and I look forward to hearing how you plan to hold USPS and other agencies accountable for this negligence. I am also proud to support your efforts to protect citizens on our roadways by joining my colleague, Senator Ashley Moody, in advancing the Safer Truckers Act, which protects drivers by establishing lawful U.S. residency requirements for CDLs and requiring states to report their adherence to English proficiency standards.

I am also proud to have joined Senator Tom Cotton in advancing the Secure Commercial Driver Licensing Act, which requires all testing relating to the issuance of driver’s licenses to be conducted in English only. These bills are critical steps to build on your action to prevent further tragedies and prioritize the safety of Americans.

Thank you both again for your leadership on this critical public safety issue. Please do not hesitate to contact my office if there are additional ways Congress can support your efforts to make America's roadways safe again.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2025/12/icymi-buchanan-reflects-on-year-of-service-and-results-for-florida-families-in-sarasota-herald-tribune-op-ed,ICYMI: Buchanan Reflects on Year of Service and Results for Florida Families in Sarasota Herald-Tribune Op-Ed,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“To My Constituents: Thank You for Placing Your Faith in Me to Strengthen Our Community.”

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan penned an op-ed in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune reflecting on a year of service, leadership and results delivered for the people of Florida’s 16th District. Buchanan highlights his work in Washington and Florida, including returning more than $12 million to constituents, delivering historic tax relief for working families and seniors, passing bipartisan health care reforms, and demonstrating support for law enforcement and public safety.

“As 2025 comes to a close, I’m proud to share the work I’ve done for the people of Florida’s 16th District,” writes Buchanan in the op-ed. “This year was defined by service to our veterans and first responders, our seniors, our small businesses and the families who call our community home.”

Read the full op-ed here or below:

A Year of Service, Strength and Results for Florida Families

Vern Buchanan

As 2025 comes to a close, I’m proud to share the work I’ve done for the people of Florida’s 16th District. This year was defined by service to our veterans and first responders, our seniors, our small businesses and the families who call our community home. ls he led,

Over the past year, my team and I returned more than $12 million to my constituents from federal agencies, including the Social Security Administration, the IRS, the VA and FEMA. Behind every dollar recovered is a real person: a senior who received earned benefits, a veteran who finally got the care they deserve or a small business owner able to expand and keep their doors open. Ensuring the federal government works for the people it serves is one of the top priorities of my public service.

In Washington, I focused on advancing policies that lower costs and strengthen our economy, including codifying key elements of President Trump’s agenda into law. Working closely with President Trump, I partnered with my Republican colleagues to deliver the Working Families Tax Cuts, the largest tax relief package for American families in history. As Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, I led efforts to make the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Actpermanent and eliminate taxes on tips and overtime, so workers keep more of what they earn. We put families first by strengthening the Child Tax Credit and creating Trump Accounts that give children a stronger financial foundation. Americans will see real relief from the lasting impact of Bidenflation when they file their tax returns next year.

Letting Americans keep more of what they earn has been especially important for Florida’s seniors. Representing one of the largest senior populations in the country, I often hear from people living on fixed incomes who worry about expenses. Now, thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts, nearly 88 percent of our seniors will pay no tax on their Social Security benefits, providing real relief and peace of mind.

Helping job creators have more capital to grow and hire is just as important. As a small business owner for more than 30 years, I know what it takes to meet payroll and keep the lights on. That’s why I fought to strengthen the small business deduction and restore bonus depreciation, giving millions of entrepreneurs more certainty to hire, expand and invest in their workers. When small businesses succeed, our communities grow stronger.

Delivering results for seniors and families also includes advancing commonsense health care reforms. As Chair of the Health Subcommittee on the Ways and Means Committee, I saw two of my bipartisan health bills unanimously pass the House: the Hospital Inpatient Services Modernization Act and the Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage Act. Both reduce costs, expand access and improve care for Florida seniors. I also worked to advance President Trump’s Make America Healthy Again agenda by prioritizing obesity prevention, Medicare modernization, telehealth and a commonsense Food is Medicine approach focused on prevention and innovation.

That same commitment to turning strong leadership into lasting policy also guided my work to restore the rule of law. I worked with House Republicans to curb illegal immigration, secure the border and support the men and women on the front lines. I stood with ICE, Customs and Border Protection, and local law enforcement, and I fought to build support for my Thin Blue Line Act to defend our law enforcement community from those who would cause them harm.

Supporting those who put their lives on the line is at the heart of why I serve. This year, I was proud to honor over 320 firefighters, EMTs, law enforcement officers, educators and veterans through Congressional awards and commendations. These men and women protect our communities, educate our children and strengthen Florida’s 16th District. Their commitment to our community inspires the work I do in Congress on behalf of Florida families.

None of this progress happens without the trust of the people I represent. To my constituents: Thank you for placing your faith in me to strengthen our community. As we look ahead to 2026, I am committed to fighting for Florida values and delivering results for the families, seniors and small businesses who call our district home.

Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.) is the Vice Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee and the Chair of the Health Subcommittee. Prior to serving in Congress, Buchanan was in business for over 30 years and chaired both the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce and Florida Chamber of Commerce.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1855,"Franklin Applauds NOAA’s Launch of AI-Driven Weather Forecasting Models, Urges Swift Passage of Weather Act",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Rep. Scott Franklin (FL-18) today welcomed the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) announcement of a new suite of operational, artificial intelligence-driven global weather forecasting models, calling the move an important step toward faster, more accurate forecasts and improved preparedness for extreme weather.

“Integrating artificial intelligence into weather forecasting has the potential to significantly improve the speed and accuracy of forecasts relied upon by states like Florida and the nation as a whole,” Franklin said. “NOAA’s launch of these AI-driven models represents meaningful progress in modernizing forecasting capabilities and equipping forecasters and emergency managers with better tools to prepare for severe weather and wildfire risks. I’ve long supported responsibly incorporating AI into NOAA’s work, including through my TAME Extreme Weather Act and provisions advanced in the Weather Act, and I encourage the House to pass the Weather Act to continue this momentum.”

Last week, NOAA announced the rollout of a new suite of AI-driven global weather prediction models designed to improve forecast speed, efficiency, and accuracy while using fewer computational resources. The models will operate alongside NOAA’s existing forecasting systems and include AI-based global and ensemble models, as well as a first-of-its-kind hybrid system that combines artificial intelligence with traditional physical forecasting models.

Franklin is the author of the TAME Extreme Weather Act, legislation he introduced in multiple Congresses to direct NOAA to develop domestic datasets for AI forecasting, partner with private industry and academia, and integrate AI-based models into operational forecasts for weather and wildfires. During committee consideration of the Weather Act earlier this fall, Franklin also advanced these priorities through an amendment encouraging NOAA’s use of AI forecasting tools, which was included in the committee-passed bill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/in-case-you-missed-it-sen-rick-scott-in-the-miami-herald-time-to-fix-our-broken-health-care-system-empower-patients-and-drive-down-costs,"IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… Sen. Rick Scott in the Miami Herald: Time to Fix Our Broken Health Care System, Empower Patients and Drive Down Costs",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to the editor of the Miami Herald responding to a recent piece demanding solutions to the health care crisis Obamacare created for our nation, which continues to fail Floridians and Americans. In his response, Senator Scott highlights his push to deliver those solutions with his More Affordable Care Act that will put families — not insurance companies or Washington bureaucrats — back in control of their health care by empowering patients with their decisions, increasing transparency in health care, and driving down costs.

In the letter, Senator Scott wrote, “It’s heartbreaking to see Floridians struggle to afford health care…Growing up, my family was poor. My mother drove hours to the nearest charity hospital so my brother, who had a hip disease, could receive care. It shouldn’t be this hard for Americans to get health care that’s affordable and works for them. I want to fix that.

…

“Democrats created Obamacare, but Republicans must fix it. If we don’t, we’re just rubber-stamping what we all acknowledge is a broken system full of broken promises. That’s why I’m working to pass my More Affordable Care Act…

…

“My bill would drive down costs by allowing Americans to make decisions and empowering them with the information they need to make the best health care choices for their families.

…

“We can pass this bill today to bring change that will drive down costs for families.”

Read the full letter to the editor in the Miami Herald HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sens-rick-scott-john-fetterman-introduce-disclosing-investment-in-foreign-adversaries-act-to-protect-american-investors-from-adversarial-countries,"Sens. Rick Scott, John Fetterman Introduce Disclosing Investment in Foreign Adversaries Act to Protect American Investors from Adversarial Countries",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Rick Scott and John Fetterman announced the introduction of the Disclosing Investment in Foreign Adversaries Act to provide transparency for Americans into investments made by American private equity firms into countries of concern, such as Russia or Communist China, so Americans are not unknowingly investing their hard-earned savings and retirement funds into U.S. adversaries. The legislation addresses this problem by requiring private equity, mutual funds, and ETFs to annually disclose the percentage of any assets invested in countries like China to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC); requiring the SEC to publicly release a report of firms investing assets in countries of concern and the percentage of those invested assets; and requiring entities selling stock in the private markets to disclose the recipient of the investment, the intended location of the investment, and the investment’s intended purpose.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Our adversaries, like Communist China and Russia, benefit from the current status quo that grants them a complete lack of transparency, and currently, our financial markets enable and often help fund their bad behavior. These foreign adversaries lie, cheat, steal, and abuse their own people using the power of American investment dollars, and without public disclosure and accountability, they can get away with it. I am proud to lead this bill to provide Americans transparency on how their savings are being invested, and which companies and regimes they may be supporting. We have to stop sending Americans’ hard-earned dollars to fuel our enemies’ hate against us.”

Senator John Fetterman said, “You work hard for your money, and you should absolutely know how it’s being invested, especially if it boosts the economies of our adversaries. This bill protects the interests of hardworking Americans and our great country, while making sure firms publicly disclose what they are doing. When I think of ‘America first,’ this bill is a good example.”

The Disclosing Investment in Foreign Adversaries Act, which Senator Scott introduced last Congress, is the latest of Senator Scott’s bills to hold Communist China accountable for working to destroy America’s financial systems, including a five-bill package aimed at protecting American investors from China’s financial exploitation and legislation cracking down on Chinese influence in American markets.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://fine.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=116,Congressman Fine Introduces the No Welfare for Non-Citizens Act,2025-12-20,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Randy Fine,F000484,fine.house.gov,fine,https://fine.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Randy Fine introduced the No Welfare for Non-Citizens Act, legislation designed to end the massive and reckless transfer of federal taxpayer dollars to non-citizens while Americans are buried under record debt.

The federal government is projected to spend $177 billion on welfare for noncitizens between 2024 to 2034. This cannot continue in our country while we're currently $38 trillion in debt. Congressman Fine understands that and is introducing this bill to end the left's runaway gravy train of freebies for non-citizens.

“Americans are being robbed,” said Congressman Randy Fine. ""Somalians, illegals, and even legal immigrants are getting free handouts at the expense of American taxpayers. That is insane, it is immoral, and it must stop.”

""Hardworking Americans should not be paying for non-citizens' healthcare, free housing, food stamps, Medicaid, or anything else for that matter. Citizens come first. Period,” Fine continued. ""My legislation will ensure that non-citizens don't receive any government benefits from the taxpayer. If you want free stuff, then you need to go home.""

The No Welfare for Non-Citizens Act delivers a clear and decisive fix by:

1. Ending eligibility for federal welfare benefits for all non-citizens.

2. Eliminating all loopholes and carve-outs that allow non-citizens to access taxpayer-funded welfare programs.

“Taxpayer-funded benefits are for Americans, not the world. We cannot save this country while continuing to reward illegal immigration and subsidize non-citizens with borrowed money from our children.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-pallone-min-schakowsky-sherman-amo-valadao-and-smith-introduce,"Bilirakis, Pallone, Min, Schakowsky, Sherman, Amo, Valadao and Smith Introduce Armenia Security Partnership Act",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Earlier today, Congressman Gus M. Bilirakis (FL-12) and Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), along with Representatives Dave Min (CA-47), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Gabe Amo (RI-01), David Valadao (CA-22), and Chris Smith (NJ-04) introduced the Armenia Security Partnership Act. This bipartisan legislation is designed to strengthen U.S. policy toward Armenia while holding the Government of Azerbaijan accountable for continued aggression and human rights abuses. It requires the President of the United States to certify to Congress that Azerbaijan has taken meaningful steps to:

Completely withdraw all military forces from the sovereign territory of Armenia;

Unconditionally release all Armenian prisoners;

Cease engaging in hostilities toward Armenia; and

Recognize the right of return for ethnic Armenians to their homes in Nagorno-Karabakh and commit to the preservation of Armenian cultural and religious sites in the region.

If the President is unable to make such a certification, the bill would:

Require a comprehensive review of U.S. security assistance to Armenia to identify gaps in Armenia’s long-term defense needs and assess the threat posed by Azerbaijan; and

Prohibit the reauthorization of the waiver of Section 907 of the FREEDOM Support Act, thereby enforcing existing statutory prohibitions on U.S. assistance to Azerbaijan.

“Armenia is a key partner in a volatile region and deserves meaningful support as it faces continued threats to its sovereignty and security,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “This legislation sends a clear message that the United States will not turn a blind eye to aggression, human rights abuses, or the forced displacement of ethnic Armenians. Accountability must be at the center of our foreign policy.”

Congressman Pallone added, “For far too long, Azerbaijan has been allowed to act with impunity to destabilize the South Caucasus, commit horrific human rights abuses, and threaten the Armenian people. Our bill is a great step in the right direction to finally hold the Aliyev regime accountable for ongoing crimes against humanity and threats to lasting peace in the region. I look forward to working with Congressman Bilirakis and the rest of my colleagues to pass it into law.”

“A durable peace in the South Caucasus must be built on respect for sovereignty, human rights, and international law, not force or coercion,” said Congressman Brad Sherman, Democratic Vice Chair of the Congressional Armenia Caucus. “Azerbaijan’s continued aggression against Armenia, the detention of Armenian prisoners, and the destruction of Armenian cultural and religious sites demands a serious response. This bipartisan legislation makes clear that the United States will not reward violations of international law and that Armenia deserves a reliable partner as it works to secure its borders and pursue a just and lasting peace.”

“As co-chair of the Congressional Armenian Caucus, I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Armenia Security Partnership Act,” said Congressman Valadao. “Azerbaijan’s aggression in the South Caucasus has gone on for far too long, and this bipartisan bill takes meaningful steps to hold them accountable for ongoing human rights abuses and hostilities against the sovereign territory of Armenia.”

The Members of the Congressional Armenian Caucus, have long worked to promote policies that uphold international law, protect vulnerable populations, and support regional stability.

“We thank Congressman Bilirakis for proactively introducing this important, bipartisan, legislation. Azerbaijan’s continuing aggression toward Armenia and its reluctance to fully embrace the August 8 Joint Declaration must stop if a just and durable peace is to be achieved,” said Timothy Jemal, President of Global ARM. “We are hopeful this bill will receive broad, bipartisan support, and that Congress will actively consider and pass this legislation to strategically bolster peace negotiations and support U.S. interests in the South Caucasus.”

""The ARMENIA Security Partnership Act represents a common-sense approach to both checking Azerbaijani aggression and strengthening America's partnership with Armenia,"" said ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian. ""This bipartisan legislation grounds U.S. policy in concrete benchmarks for peace – the release of Armenian prisoners, the withdrawal of Azerbaijani forces from occupied Armenian land, and the protection of Armenian cultural heritage. We need to stop incentivizing continued Azerbaijani hostility, by normalizing its genocide of Artsakh and ongoing violations of international law, and start holding its Aliyev regime accountable for its crimes.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-votes-better-more-affordable-health-care-system-americans,"Díaz-Balart Votes for a Better, More Affordable Health Care System for Americans",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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 Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Dean of the Florida Delegation, issued the following statement after voting earlier this week in favor of the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act, which would begin the process of reforming the “Unaffordable"" Care Act, also known as Obamacare, and stripping the perverse incentives that act as bailouts for big insurance companies and that drive up healthcare costs for the everyday American.

“As my record shows, I have always been in support of creating a better, more affordable healthcare system for all Americans. Unfortunately, the Democrat plan to permanently extend COVID-era subsidies as it stands, without reforms, would cost the American taxpayer $350 billion over 10 years while continuing to raise premiums.

Obamacare has been disastrous since its inception and has cost taxpayers billions of dollars, raising premiums by 80%, limiting choices, creating loopholes that insurers can exploit, and leaving taxpayers stuck covering the bill.

The implementation of the COVID-era subsidies created the opportunity for massive waste, fraud, and abuse, as evidenced by a GAO report that cited 58,000 enrollees matching Social Security death records, with 7,000 of them reported dead before enrollment began. In other terms, that equates to $94 million in taxpayer money sent to health insurers on behalf of deceased people. This is just one of numerous examples of wasteful spending.

The bill House Republicans passed is meant to fix those problems, not by spending more taxpayer money, but by making the system less susceptible to fraud and more transparent, competitive, and flexible.

Americans deserve to see the doctors they choose at a price they can afford. I remain committed to working with my colleagues in delivering real solutions.”

What the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act Does:

Lowers monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs for everyone by 11%

It keeps insurance premiums from spiking and helps lower deductibles and copays by implementing cost-sharing reduction payments

Why it matters: Without this, insurers pass the costs directly to you, the taxpayer, by increasing premiums

Exposes hidden costs from prescription drug middlemen

It forces drug middlemen to be honest about where your money is going.

What’s the problem now? Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) negotiate drug prices behind closed doors and keep rebates for themselves – often raising prices for patients and employers. They buy the drug at the real price, sell it at a higher price, and keep the difference.

What this bill does:

Requires PBMs to show employers exactly how much drugs cost

Shows where rebates or reimbursements go

Exposes hidden markups

Why it matters? More transparency = lower drug prices and lower premiums

Helps small businesses and self-employed/independent workers to get cheaper insurance

It lets small businesses and self-employed workers band together to buy insurance like big companies do.

Why that helps: Big companies get cheaper rates because they buy insurance in bulk.

This bill lets small businesses, gig workers, and independent contractors do the same thing. Gig workers are most affected by expiration (Uber drivers, photographers, etc.)

Result: more affordable plans, more doctors to choose from, better coverage.

Lets everyday Americans choose the health plan that works best for them

Instead of your boss picking one plan, you get the money and choose your own plan.

How it works:

Employers give workers tax-free money

Workers use it to buy the plan they want

You can keep your plan if you change jobs

Why it matters: more freedom, more control, and coverage that fits your life – not your employer’s.

Protects small businesses from excessive red tape

It stops unnecessary regulations that drive up costs for small businesses

What that means:

Small businesses can protect themselves from massive medical claims

They can offer health benefits without drowning in paperwork

Insurance stays affordable instead of being regulated out of reach

Why it matters:

When small businesses can afford coverage, more workers get insured, and small businesses can compete",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/salazar-introduces-shelter-act-strengthen-miamis-disaster-resilience,Salazar Introduces Shelter Act to Strengthen Miami’s Disaster Resilience,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Maria Elvira Salazar,S000168,salazar.house.gov,salazar,https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — This week, Representatives Maria Salazar (R-Fla.) and Brittany Pettersen (D-Colo.), alongside U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.), reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral Shelter Act to help families and small businesses protect their homes and properties from future natural disasters and combat rising insurance costs. The legislation would create a first-of-its-kind disaster mitigation tax credit for families and business owners in disaster-prone areas.

“A single storm shouldn’t be able to erase a lifetime of work. The Shelter Act empowers families and small businesses to fortify their property before disaster strikes, making our communities safer, stronger, and more resilient,” said Salazar. “Miami families know the cost of preparedness all too well, and this bill helps ensure they’re not facing those challenges alone.”

“Coloradans are all too familiar with increasingly devastating wildfires and other natural disasters that threaten their homes and businesses and drive up insurance costs,” said Bennet. “We can’t focus solely on helping communities recover after these disasters. Congress must do more to help them prepare. This bill helps taxpayers invest in tools and materials to safeguard their homes, businesses, and families from natural disasters before they occur.”

“Everybody in my state has lost someone or something they love because of flooding. This is another tool for families to minimize that loss,” said Cassidy.

“In Colorado, wildfire season has become a year-round problem and extreme weather events continue to harm more communities every year,” said Pettersen. “Our small businesses and families shouldn’t have to pay the price for the costly impact of wildfires, especially when rising costs are already squeezing Coloradans. As we combat the climate crisis, one of the best things we can do is make sure people can protect their homes and businesses before disaster strikes.”

The Shelter Act allows Americans to write off 25 percent of qualifying mitigation expenses, up to $3,750 per taxpayer, to help homes and businesses reinforce their properties against natural disasters such as flood, wildfire, hail, and wind. This would be the first-ever federal tax incentive to help families and businesses invest in disaster resilience and mitigation ahead of time, helping offset the hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars spent on natural disaster recovery each year.

The Shelter Act is supported by: National Institute of Building Sciences, Colorado Resiliency Office, National Association of Realtors, National Association of Home Builders, Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, Fire Adapted Colorado, Roaring Fork Valley Wildfire Collaborative, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH), the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), Reinsurance Association of America (RAA), and Satellite Condominiums LLC.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/salazars-western-hemisphere-bill-signed-law-part-final-national-defense,Salazar’s Western Hemisphere Bill Signed Into Law as Part of Final National Defense Package,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Maria Elvira Salazar,S000168,salazar.house.gov,salazar,https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. María Elvira Salazar’s (FL-27) Western Hemisphere and State Department Political Affairs Authorization Act has been signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026.

Included in the final National Defense package, one of the largest investments in U.S. defense and security in history, the law marks the first time Congress has codified the authorities of the State Department’s Political Affairs Bureaus.

Earlier this year, Rep. Salazar introduced H.R. 5246, which laid the groundwork for these provisions by establishing clear authorities for the State Department’s Political Affairs Bureaus in the Western Hemisphere and other strategic regions. Additionally, the legislation strengthens U.S. diplomatic engagement and security coordination by:

• Creating an Office of Haitian Affairs,

• Appointing new Ambassadors-at-Large for the Arctic and Indian Ocean regions, and

• Establishing a new unit to counter the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

“I’m thankful that these critical State Department authorities to strengthen the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, combat Chinese and Russian influence, and appoint new Ambassadors to strategic regions, such as the Arctic, were included in our National Defense Policy,” said Chairwoman Salazar. “We are finally prioritizing our Hemisphere, and security in other strategic regions across the globe, which will help us fight tyranny across the world.”

In September 2025, Chairwoman Salazar led the effort to pass an amended version of H.R. 5246 out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee with unanimous support and ensure it was included in the broader State Department Reauthorization bill, H.R. 5300. Recognizing the importance of these provisions, House Leadership and the Armed Services Committee included them directly in Division E (Sections 5141-5162) of S.1071, the National Defense Authorization Act of 2026.

The National Defense Authorization Act authorizes $900 billion for U.S. national defense, includes a 3.8% pay raise for Miami’s service members, and improves housing, education, and access to childcare for military families.

Additional information about State Department provisions included in the FY26 NDAA can be found here.

Chairwoman Salazar Legislative Accomplishments:

With the enactment of the Western Hemisphere and State Department Political Affairs Authorization Act, Rep. María Elvira Salazar becomes one of the most productive lawmakers on foreign policy and national security, having now authored 11 bills signed into law.

Other key legislation authored or sponsored by Rep. Salazar that has been enacted into law includes:

• The TAKE IT DOWN Act — Protects children from online digital threats and the non-consensual distribution of intimate images, including AI-generated deepfakes. Signed into law: May 2025.

• The DISPOSE Act — Destroys fentanyl precursor chemicals to save American lives. Signed into law: December 2024.

• The Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Act — Honors 60 diplomats who risked their lives during World War II to save Jews from Nazi persecution. Signed into law: December 2024.

• The Migratory Birds of the Americas Conservation Enhancements Act — Protects migratory birds and critical habitat, including the Everglades. Signed into law: April 2024.

• The RECLAIM Taxpayer Funds Act — Recovers billions in fraudulent government loans and restores fiscal responsibility and accountability. Implemented: December 2023.

• The REEF Act — Incentivizes retired Navy ships to be repurposed as artificial reefs across U.S. marine ecosystems. Signed into law: December 2023.

• The Summer Barrow Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Act — Reauthorizes critical funding for mental health and substance abuse programs. Signed into law: December 2022.

• The PRICE Act — Expands access to federal contracting opportunities for small businesses. Signed into law: February 2022.

• The Reinforcing Nicaragua’s Adherence to Conditions for Electoral Reform (RENACER) Act — Imposes sanctions on the Ortega regime in Nicaragua. Signed into law: November 2021.

• The COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Relief Act — Delivered economic relief for Floridians during the pandemic. Implemented: March 2021.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-urges-dow-sec-hegseth-to-add-alibaba-and-other-chinese-communist-party-linked-companies-to-1260h-list,Sen. Rick Scott Urges DoW Sec. Hegseth to Add Alibaba and Other Chinese Communist Party-Linked Companies to 1260H List,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Department of War (DoW) Secretary Pete Hegseth thanking him for his work with President Trump to put a stop to Communist China’s continuous attempts to undermine critical U.S. national security infrastructure and collect the personal data of American citizens. In his letter, Senator Scott asked that the secretary continue these great efforts with the immediate addition of Communist China-based Alibaba Group Holding Limited and seven other Chinese companies with clear ties to the Chinese government and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army to the DoW’s 1260H list to make clear the United States will not support adversarial regimes.

Read the letter HERE or below:

Dear Secretary Hegseth:

I am writing to thank you and President Trump for your unparalleled commitment to the safety and security of the American people, especially regarding recent reports that Alibaba Group Holding Limited (BABA), Baidu Inc, BYD Co, and five other Chinese-based companies deserve inclusion on the Department of War (DoW)’s 1260H list of Chinese military companies. I support the Department of War’s conclusion.

As Salt Typhoon and the recent F5 hack have shown us, Communist China will stop at nothing and leave no tool untouched to undermine our critical infrastructure. In 2017, officials from China’s top internet regulator broadcast their goal to enhance the “global influence of internet companies like Alibaba, Tencent, Baidu [and] Huawei’ and ‘to push China’s proposition of internet governance toward becoming an international consensus’.” Beyond this, there is ample public evidence that these companies collude with and are connected to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), both directly and through China’s civil-military fusion programs, and require immediate inclusion on the 1260H list.

Just last month, the Financial Times reported that a White House national security memo included intelligence on how Alibaba provides the PLA with capabilities that weaken our national security. Specifically, the memo referenced that Alibaba provided Xi and his military with sensitive customer data, including IP addresses, Wi-Fi information and payment records, AI-related services, and so-called “zero-day” software vulnerabilities. These descriptions alone appear to meet the statutory definition of a Chinese Military Company required for list inclusion, particularly as an entity engaged in “providing commercial services, manufacturing, producing, or exporting.”

Additionally, Communist China’s civil-military fusion program requires companies to share technology with the PLA, and Alibaba’s alleged affiliation with the PLA highlights the extent of China’s military-civil fusion project – including its use of e-commerce companies to gather personal data of American citizens.

Baidu’s ties to Xi, the CCP, and the PLA are similarly alarming. In 2017, Baidu instituted internal Communist Party committees as part of broader corporate governance and “party-building.” Earlier this year, members of Congress sent a letter to Securities and Exchange Chairman Paul Atkins warning that “Baidu Maps is embedded into the Integrated Joint Operations Platform used to surveil Uyghurs in Xinjiang…[Baidu has also] procured high-performance computing systems from Sugon, a Chinese military company sanctioned by the United States for aiding China’s nuclear weapons program. Baidu was also selected to lead China’s AI national laboratory eight years ago, and has a quantum research center with military-linked institutions. This PLA connection is especially concerning, given Baidu’s artificial intelligence and advanced technology products with dual-use capabilities.

The DoW’s assessment of BYD Co. as a Chinese military company is also well-founded. The 2024 National Defense Authorization Act already prevents the DoW from purchasing batteries from BYD beginning October 1, 2027 because of this connection. A 2019 report also indicates that BYD plays a significant role in China’s military-civil fusion strategy and helps send advanced foreign technology back to Communist China, citing its cooperation with a PLA-linked weapons base, its research activities in military-civil fusion zones, national recognition for military-related collaboration, and close technological ties with Huawei. Similar claims have been made in Congressional hearings as well.

In May, the House Homeland Security Committee sent a letter to BYD North America and its U.S. brand, RIDE Mobility, asking for additional information on its corporate structure and whether BYD had ever been asked to comply with Communist China’s National Intelligence Law, Data Security Law, or Cybersecurity Law, which would require the company to share sensitive personal data of millions of Americans with the CCP and PLA. Given the wide-ranging implications these laws could have on Americans’ data and our national security, the DoW is absolutely correct to investigate and affirmatively conclude that BYD’s inclusion on the 1260H list is warranted.

There is extensive, publicly available evidence that raises serious concerns regarding Alibaba, Baidu, BYD, and the five other reported PRC-based companies and their affiliations with the Chinese military. It is essential to our nation’s security and the safety of American families that you add these companies to the Section 1260H list during your latest annual update, and that we keep these companies from encroaching on the lives and exploiting the data of American citizens. I urge you to work with the White House and other federal agencies to include these companies on the DoW blacklist in the coming weeks.

I thank you again for your steadfast leadership of the Department of War and your commitment to protecting Americans and our national security. I look forward to your timely response.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://mills.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-cory-mills-introduces-safe-services-act,Congressman Cory Mills Introduces the SAFE SERVICES Act,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Cory Mills,M001216,mills.house.gov,mills,https://mills.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.-- Congressman Cory Mills (FL-07), along with Congressman Hamadeh (R-Ariz.), introduced the Securing American Firms & Expertise in Services (SAFE Services) Act, legislation to ensure American companies are prioritized for Department of War (DoW) professional services contracts critical to U.S. national security.

In Fiscal Year 2024 alone, the Department of War awarded more than $1 billion in professional services contracts to 616 foreign-owned companies, despite the availability of thousands of qualified American firms capable of performing the same work. These contracts include services such as engineering, architecture, design, consulting, program management, and legal advisory, many of which directly support the construction and sustainment of U.S. military facilities around the world.

While existing laws such as the Buy American Act and the Berry Amendment prioritize domestically produced goods, no comparable preference currently exists for defense professional services. The SAFE Services Act addresses this oversight by requiring the Department of War to prioritize American companies when procuring professional services essential to military readiness and infrastructure.

The SAFE Services Act would apply to defense professional services including:

• Engineering and architecture

• Design and environmental consulting

• Financial consulting

• Program management

• Legal advisory and other expert services as defined under the Federal Acquisition

Regulation

By leveling the playing field, the legislation strengthens supply chain security, supports American workers and small businesses, and ensures that sensitive defense-related work remains in trusted hands.

“American tax dollars should strengthen American companies and protect American security,” said Congressman Cory Mills. “When foreign-owned firms are designing, advising on, or managing sensitive defense projects, we expose ourselves to unnecessary economic and national security risks. The SAFE Services Act closes that gap and puts American expertise first. America has the talent. America has the companies. It’s time our defense procurement policies reflect that reality.""

""The people in my district elected me to put America first. That means supporting American workers and revitalizing American industry. It’s why I prioritized Arizona military communities and our local manufacturers in my amendments to the defense bill,"" stated Congressman Hamadeh, a member of the House Armed Services Committee. ""This legislation by Rep. Mills helps codify that spirit. It requires the Department of War to prioritize American companies during the procurement of professional services. The economic and national security implications alone should demand a preference for American companies, but this bill will ensure it is more than a suggestion.""

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2025/12/president-trump-signs-four-buchanan-defense-proposals-into-law,President Trump Signs Four Buchanan Defense Proposals into Law,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“We Are Reaffirming America’s Unwavering Commitment to the Men and Women Who Defend Our Freedom.”

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan, Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, announced that four of his legislative proposals were signed into law by President Donald Trump as part of this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

“I’m proud to see these critical initiatives signed into law to address some of the most pressing challenges facing our military,” said Buchanan. “Each of my proposals strengthen readiness, protect our national security, and ensure our servicemembers have the tools and support they need to succeed. By advancing President Trump’s ‘Peace Through Strength’ agenda, we are reaffirming America’s unwavering commitment to the men and women who defend our freedom.”

With this signing, 51 Buchanan legislative initiatives have been enacted into law since he first came to Congress in 2007.

The four Buchanan proposals in the House-passed FY26 NDAA include:

The Protecting Animals in Military Training Act to end the use of animals in live-fire trauma training. The military will instead use advanced simulators, mannequins, cadavers or actors to prepare servicemembers for combat emergencies.

A provision expressing concern over the fact that China and other countries of concern are developing dual-use strategic technologies from U.S. capital, which is then benefiting adversaries’ military modernization efforts, surveillance states and human rights abuses. Buchanan’s provision calls on the president to use all necessary means to restrict certain U.S. outbound investments in these technologies in countries of concern.

A requirement for the Secretary of Defense to submit a report to Congress and make publicly available all detection and mitigation activities conducted to counter unmanned aircraft systems.

A requirement for the Secretary of Defense to list all critical defense infrastructure that relies on foreign materials or components and ways to replace the procurement and production of those materials (including gaps in manufacturing capabilities).

Buchanan has had four initiatives signed by President Bush, four by President Obama, 19 by President Biden and 24 by President Trump.

In January 2025, Buchanan had his Honoring Our Heroes with Dignity Act (H.R. 10301) and seven other defense legislative proposals signed into law. These proposals, which enhanced military readiness and expanded health care options for servicemembers, were included in the final version of the FY25 NDAA.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=495,Rep. Dunn Announces FL-02 Congressional App Challenge Winners,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Neal P. Dunn,D000628,dunn.house.gov,dunn,https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) today announced the winners of the FL-02 Congressional App Challenge. The winners are Akshat Sharma, David Suo, and Alex Wang of Tallahassee. Their app, PillPOW was designed to address the dangers of medication non-adherence in seniors by providing reminders through voice alerts and large text as well as tracking dosages.

Congressman Dunn said, “Congratulations to Akshat Sharma, David Suo, and Alex Wang of Tallahassee for taking first place at this year’s FL-02 Congressional App Challenge! Their app, entitled PillPOW, is designed to help seniors manage their medications by providing reminders and tracking dosages. As a physician, I have seen firsthand the harms of medication non-adherence and am inspired by these students’ work to address a widespread, real-world challenge. Well done, and congratulations on this achievement!”

The Congressional App Challenge is the most prestigious prize in student computer science. It was created in 2013 to foster an appreciation for computer science and STEM. Every year, Members of Congress challenge students in their districts to create and submit their original apps for a chance to win. Winning apps are put on display in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=496,Rep. Dunn and Rep. Carter Introduce Legislation to Designate Fentanyl as a Weapon of Mass Destruction,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Neal P. Dunn,D000628,dunn.house.gov,dunn,https://dunn.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC–Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) and Congressman Buddy Carter (GA-01) have introduced H. Res. 959, a resolution supporting President Trump’s Executive Order to designate fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction. Fentanyl, a highly potent opioid, claims tens of thousands of lives in the United States each year, and continues to pose a severe public health crisis. Congressman Dunn previously introduced similar legislation during the 118th Congress.

Rep. Neal Dunn said, “I am thankful to President Trump for his decisive action and recognizing what I’ve been saying for years. As the leading cause of overdose deaths in the United States, it is time we call this drug what it is: a Weapon of Mass Destruction. That is why I am again introducing legislation to designate illicit fentanyl-related substances as such. This designation will provide law enforcement with the tools and authority needed to protect our communities from this deadly poison.”

“Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for young Americans, killing more of our citizens than any weapon. I applaud President Trump for protecting the homeland by declaring fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction, which will enable law enforcement to appropriately tackle this crisis. As a pharmacist who has supported this push for years, it is time we unleash every available tool against the cartels and foreign networks to keep this extremely lethal and dangerous drug off our streets,” said Rep. Buddy Carter.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4943,Rep. Frankel Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Antisemitism on College Campuses,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Representative Lois Frankel (D-FL-22) led Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE-2), Lucy McBath (D-GA-6), Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-6), and Haley Stevens (D-MI-11) in introducing the Protecting Students on Campus Act, bipartisan legislation to confront rising antisemitism and other forms of discrimination at colleges and universities.

At a time when hate is surging domestically and globally—resulting in horrific antisemitic violence, including Sunday’s deadly shooting in Bondi Beach, Australia—this legislation provides meaningful protections to ensure students can learn in safe, inclusive environments.

“Antisemitism and hate are surging on college campuses and around the world, and the consequences are deadly—as we saw in the vile attack in Bondi Beach,” said Rep. Frankel. “Students cannot learn if they do not feel safe. The Protecting Students on Campus Act gives students clear pathways to report antisemitism and discrimination, strengthens accountability for colleges, and helps ensure campuses are places where hate is not tolerated.”

The bill increases transparency, oversight, and accountability by enhancing the role of the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR), helping schools identify discrimination early and take action to protect students.

The urgency is unmistakable. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), 83 percent of Jewish students report witnessing or experiencing antisemitism on campus since October 7. Nationwide, antisemitic incidents have increased nearly ninefold over the past decade.

""Jewish students deserve better than empty promises when antisemitism erupts on campus. The Protecting Students on Campus Act transforms rhetoric into action by requiring real transparency and giving students the tools to hold their universities accountable,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). “In this climate of rising antisemitic incidents on campus and in Jewish communities around the world, as we’ve seen with the recent, horrific attack at Bondi Beach, this legislation couldn't come at a more urgent time. We thank Reps. Frankel, Bacon, McBath, Ciscomani, and Stevens for their leadership and urge the swift passage of this legislation so that our campuses remain places of learning, not fear.""

""American Jewish Committee's (AJC) State of Antisemitism in America 2024 Report found that 35% of Jewish college students experienced antisemitism during their time on campus and 48% felt unsafe or avoided expressing their views or Jewish identity. These numbers reflect an alarming reality: Jewish students are being targeted and marginalized in unprecedented ways,"" said Ted Deutch, CEO of American Jewish Committee. ""AJC applauds Representatives Frankel (D-FL), Bacon (R-NJ), McBath (D-GA), Ciscomani (R-AZ), and Stevens (D-MI) for taking action by introducing the Protecting Students on Campus Act, legislation that empowers students to report discrimination under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, while providing critical accountability to ensure the U.S. Department of Education responds appropriately to federal complaints.""

The Protecting Students on Campus Act:

Requires colleges and universities to post clear, accessible information and conduct public awareness campaigns on how to file a Title VI discrimination complaint with OCR;

Requires colleges and universities to report the number of civil rights complaints they receive and the actions taken to address them;

Requires the Department of Education’s Inspector General to audit institutions that report disproportionately high numbers of discrimination complaints relative to their student population; and

Requires the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights to regularly brief Congress on complaints received by OCR and the number pending review.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-patronis-encourages-floridians-to-let-their-voices-be-heard,Congressman Patronis Encourages Floridians to Let Their Voices Be Heard,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Jimmy Patronis,P000622,patronis.house.gov,patronis,https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Patronis encourages his constituents to voice their opinions on the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s (BOEM’s) draft, proposed plan for offshore drilling from 2026 to 2031, before the comment period ends on January 23, 2026, at 10:59 P.M. CST.

“It is our right to share our concerns and perspectives, and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s responsibility to listen to what we have to say,” said Congressman Patronis. “I encourage all my constituents to let their voices be heard during the comment period.”

As currently proposed, the draft plan offers vast, new areas for drilling off Florida’s Gulf coast, including areas 100 miles east of the Military Mission Line, beginning in 2029. These areas near Eglin Air Force Base have been off limits to new oil exploration for decades because of the sensitive munitions testing that occurs in the Eastern Gulf Test and Training Range.

For the draft plan to lead to sales in 2029 as currently proposed, the federal ban would have to be rescinded, and BOEM would have to finalize the planning area. Before finalizing the area, BOEM is obligated to release the plan for public comment. This comment period represents the first of several where persons may express views on the draft plan.

To access the Online Portal Submission and the Notice, please click the links below:

Online Portal Submission -https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/BOEM-2025-0483-0001

Notice -https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/11/24/2025-20760/notice-of-availability-of-the-11th-national-outer-continental-shelf-oil-and-gas-leasing-draft

Via Mail:

11th National OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program

Attn: Ms. Kelly Hammerle

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (VAM-LD)

45600 Woodland Road, Sterling, VA 20166-9216

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases/president-trump-announces-warrior-dividend-for-our-servicemembers,President Trump Announces ‘Warrior Dividend’ for our Servicemembers,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Jimmy Patronis,P000622,patronis.house.gov,patronis,https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Patronis celebrates the announcement of the ‘Warrior Dividend,’ a special recognition for America’s servicemembers. President Trump announced that nearly 1.5 million service members will receive a $1,776 one-time tax-free bonus in honor of 250 years of the U.S. military defending our nation and protecting our freedoms.

Image

Click here or above to watch the clip.

Congressman Patronis: “Merry Christmas. Congressman Jimmy Patronis here. I just left the White House, where I got to thank President Trump for the warrior dividend. $1,776 for our brave men and women in uniform is tax-free. In the state of Florida, that's $188 million. In Congressional District One, that's over $72 million to say thank you. Thank you for fighting for our freedom. Thank you for fighting for our country. And most importantly, thank you, President Trump. And thank you, Secretary Peter Hegseth. God bless.”

$1,776 tax-free bonus to servicemembers

$188 million to the state of Florida

$72 million to Florida’s First Congressional District

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-trump-is-right-time-to-reschedule-marijuana/,"Rep. Steube: Trump is Right, Time to Reschedule Marijuana",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Steube: Trump is Right, Time to Reschedule Marijuana

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) issued the following statement today, praising President Trump’s support for rescheduling marijuana and calling for Congress to take up his Marijuana 1-to-3 Act:

“President Trump is right. Now is the time to reclassify marijuana, and the Drug Enforcement Administration must open the door for scientific research into the plant’s medicinal value,” said Rep. Steube. “My Marijuana 1-to-3 Act will deliver exactly what President Trump has requested: legislation that moves marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act. This bill will create new opportunities for scientists and physicians to develop treatments and cures for pain and disease. I am grateful for the White House’s leadership on this issue and call on my colleagues in Congress to bring the Marijuana 1-to-3 Act to the House floor immediately.”

Background: This legislation orders the Drug Enforcement Administration to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III as defined under the Controlled Substances Act. Reassigning marijuana to Schedule III will permit federal funding for research on the medicinal value of marijuana.

The Marijuana 1-to-3 Act has the support of the US Cannabis Roundtable, the Veterans Cannabis Project, Management Science Associates, the National Cannabis Industry Association, and the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws.

“The U.S. Cannabis Roundtable strongly supports Representative Greg Steube’s (R-FL) reintroduction of the Marijuana 1-to-3 Act, which would move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act.

“Congressman Steube is absolutely right — it makes no sense that federal law treats marijuana the same as heroin and LSD, and even more absurd that cocaine is classified less restrictively than marijuana. This is a common-sense, science-based reform that would finally unlock real medical research, improve care for patients and veterans, and modernize our outdated drug laws — all while maintaining existing safeguards to protect children and young people.

“We are encouraged that leading House Republicans are championing this effort and urge members of Congress from both parties to support this legislation. Rescheduling cannabis is not a partisan issue — it’s about advancing science, strengthening public health, and reflecting the realities recognized in communities across America. —US Cannabis Roundtable

“Veterans across the country have borne the brunt of outdated laws that treat medical marijuana the same as heroin. Representative Steube’s Marijuana 1-to-3 Act is a long overdue and commonsense reform that will allow real scientific research into cannabis’ therapeutic potential, improve safety standards, and give veterans access to treatments without fear of legal or regulatory fallout. We applaud Rep. Steube’s leadership in introducing this bill — it’s the kind of policy that puts veterans first, restores evidence-based decision making, and finally begins to align federal law with what medical science, state programs, and veterans themselves already know to be true.” —Nick Etten, Founder of Veterans Cannabis Project

“Management Science Associates, Inc. applauds the Administration’s recent announcement to reclassify cannabis as a Schedule III substance. We also commend Representative Greg Steube for reintroducing the Marijuana 1-to-3 Act (H.R. 4963), which would help eliminate longstanding federal barriers and significantly expand access to critical cannabis research. Efforts like these lay the foundation for a more robust regulatory framework and enable cannabis businesses to invest with greater confidence in science, innovation, and evidence-based practices. These developments are vital to fostering a responsible, data-driven industry centered on public health and wellness.” —Management Science Associates, Inc.

“NCIA commends Rep. Steube for his continued leadership on this issue. The Congressman’s Marijuana 1-to-3 Act would alleviate the punitive burden that is IRC Section 280E, however, further reforms are needed. NCIA urges the administration to move swiftly and transparently toward a science-based outcome that recognizes cannabis’ medical value and eases the burdens that businesses face under outdated federal law. At the same time, we call on Congress to enact legislation that tracks with a public that overwhelmingly supports making cannabis legal for adults, protecting our industry and upholding public safety in the process.” —Michelle Rutter Friberg, Director of Government Relations for the National Cannabis Industry Association

“This timely legislation corrects the absurdity of classifying cannabis as a Schedule I substance and helps pave the way for sensible, evidence-based federal cannabis policy. Moving cannabis to Schedule III is an overdue recognition of its established medical value, and will allow state-licensed cannabis providers to better compete against underground operators to ensure that consumers have access to tested, reliable, and affordable products.” —Morgan Fox, Political Director for the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML)",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=53CB7CE6-27F3-4BAD-AA26-8A33F2E1DF0E,Rep. Webster Votes to Pass Commonsense Permitting Reform,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Daniel Webster,W000806,webster.house.gov,webster,https://webster.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, voted to pass H.R. 4776, the Standardizing Permitting and Expediting Economic Development (SPEED) Act, legislation that restores the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) to its original intent by fixing statutory flaws that have resulted in lengthy permitting delays and litigation.

“The SPEED Act – legislation I helped develop, delivers long-overdue, commonsense reforms to help streamline the permitting process and expedite critical energy and infrastructure projects,” said Rep. Webster. For too long, statutory flaws in NEPA have slowed or stalled important projects, driving up costs for taxpayers. By passing the SPEED Act, Congress can cut bureaucratic red tape, establish clear timelines and put the United States back in the business of building again.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/in-case-you-missed-it-sen-rick-scott-joins-fox-news-faulker-focus-to-discuss-pres-trump-s-2025-wins-his-more-affordable-care-act-to-drive-down-health-care-costs,IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… Sen. Rick Scott Joins Fox News’ Faulker Focus to Discuss Pres. Trump’s 2025 Wins & His More Affordable Care Act to Drive Down Health Care Costs,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, Senator Rick Scott joined the Faulkner Focus on Fox News to discuss President Trump’s big wins for the American people in his first year as he works to deliver on his promises of putting Americans first, securing the border, cutting taxes, and reversing Biden’s disastrous, inflation-fueling policies. Senator Scott also discussed his work to pass his More Affordable Care Act to fix the health care crisis Obamacare has created. This bill, led by RSC Chairman August Pfluger in the House, will drive down health care costs and empower Americans to take charge of their health care, increase transparency and competition in the system, and allow families to shop across state lines. The senator’s More Affordable Care Act also acts on President Trump’s call to send any federal support directly to families, rather than insurance companies, through new HSA-style Trump Health Freedom Accounts that allow families to shop for the plan that best fits their needs.

See more from Senator Scott during his interview with Fox News HERE or below:

Senator Scott outlines his More Affordable Care Act in Fox News HERE and with Chairman Pfluger in the Washington Examiner HERE.

The More Affordable Care Act:

Establishes Trump Health Freedom Accounts, HSA-style accounts that ensure federal dollars to support families are delivered to them directly, not funneled to insurance companies;

These funds can be applied to premiums and will be Hyde-compliant by restricting use on abortion health plans or abortion services;

Offers more options for plans that will create market-driven incentives to drive down costs;

Allows Americans to shop across state lines with the creation of a state waiver program within the Affordable Care Act, further expanding competition within the health insurance market and the availability of health insurance plans within existing ACA exchanges.

Any health insurance plan that is approved by a waiver state’s insurance commissioner shall be sold on an easily accessible exchange, whether that’s the federal exchange of healthcare.gov, a state’s exchange, or a state-managed, commercially run exchange.

Enhances President Trump’s Executive Order to increase transparency in health care and provide patients with the price and quality of a good or service in advance. Families will have up-front pricing on what things will cost them – a health care menu – so they can make informed decisions and plan for their needs.

Maintains protections for pre-existing conditions; and

Enhances the Small Business Tax Credit to encourage employer-sponsored coverage and increase accessibility.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-introduces-bill-to-revoke-communist-china-s-trade-privileges-and-prioritize-american-jobs,Sen. Rick Scott Introduces Bill to Revoke Communist China’s Trade Privileges and Prioritize American Jobs,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott announced the introduction of his No Trade Preferences for Communist China Act. This bill will revoke the permanent trade relations status of Communist China, an adversary to the United States. This legislation aligns with President Trump’s efforts hold Communist China accountable and ensure the United States is not taken advantage of by ensuring China is treated as an adversary, not a partner. Communist China has failed to uphold its end of any deal with the United States since being granted permanent normal trade relations status – instead, using this to undermine the United States’ economy, steal Americans’ intellectual property, and harm our families, businesses, and national security.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Communist China has long taken advantage of our open markets, stealing our technology, undermining American workers and businesses, and harming American families. It’s clear China is an adversary, not a trusted partner to the United States, and they have proven that time and time again. President Trump is doing an incredible job putting America first and cracking down on Communist China’s abuses, and as he works to hold Communist China accountable to its word, he must have every ounce of leverage available. My bill, the No Trade Preferences for Communist China Act, revokes Communist China’s preferred trade status to send a clear message that the United States will not give privileges to nations that continuously prove they aren’t worthy of them.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-introduces-no-tax-exemptions-for-terror-act-to-strip-tax-exempt-status-from-cair,Sen. Rick Scott Introduces No Tax-Exemptions for Terror Act to Strip Tax-Exempt Status From CAIR,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott announced his No Tax-Exemptions for Terror Act to eliminate the special tax-exempt status for the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), an organization found to have ties to terrorism. Senator Marsha Blackburn is a cosponsor of the legislation.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Groups like CAIR, which identify as charities yet have been identified by the FBI as having ties to terrorist activity, don’t deserve special tax treatment or get breaks designed for charitable organizations. Period. My bill makes that clear by revoking their tax-exempt status. America fights terrorists, we do not fund them.”

Senator Marsha Blackburn said, “It goes without saying that organizations tied to terrorism should not receive tax benefits. The No Tax Exemptions for Terror Act would ensure radical groups like the Council on American-Islamic Relations are not rewarded for doing the bidding of terrorists.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2025/12/buchanan-votes-to-pass-the-lower-health-care-premiums-for-all-americans-act,Buchanan Votes to Pass the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“Health care should be affordable, transparent and work for every American.”

Legislation Focuses on Lowering Costs, Expanding Choice and Improving Transparency

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan, Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chair of the Health Subcommittee, released the following statement after he voted to pass the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act (H.R. 6703):

“Health care should be affordable, transparent and work for every American. That’s why I joined my Republican colleagues to pass the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act because it takes practical steps to lower premium costs, expand access to affordable coverage and give families and workers more choices. This health care package increases transparency in the system, reduces hidden costs and empowers small businesses to offer high-quality insurance to employees. It’s a commonsense approach to make health care more affordable and accessible for all Americans.”

In addition to being the Vice Chairman and most senior Republican on the powerful U.S. House Ways and Means Committee, Buchanan is also the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee, which has broad jurisdiction over traditional Medicare, the Medicare prescription drug benefit program and Medicare Advantage.

---

BACKGROUND ON THE LOWER HEALTH CARE PREMIUMS FOR ALL ACT

Lowers Premiums for all Americans

Pharmacy Benefit Manager Transparency: Requires PBMs to provide employers with detailed data on prescription drug spending, rebates, spread pricing, and formulary decisions—empowering plans and workers with the transparency they deserve.

Appropriates Cost Sharing Reduction Payments: Provides necessary funding for CSR payments beginning in 2027, lowering premiums and stabilizing the individual market while ensuring taxpayer dollars are used responsibly. Relief would be better directed towards low-income enrollees that need them.

Improves Health Care Options for America’s Workers

Association Health Plans: Expands access to Association Health Plans by allowing employers—including self-employed workers—to band together across industries to purchase affordable, high-quality coverage.

Access to Stop-Loss Insurance: Ensures small and mid-sized employers can protect themselves from catastrophic claims by clarifying that stop-loss insurance is not “health insurance coverage.” This would allow small businesses to offer their employees more tailored, affordable care.

CHOICE Arrangements: Codifies and strengthens 2019 rules allowing employers to offer defined contributions for employees to purchase their own coverage—renamed as CHOICE arrangements—and permits employees to pay premiums pre-tax.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405109,VIDEO: U.S. Rep. Castor Lambasts GOP Health Care Charade,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) lambasted House Republicans’ health care charade that would drive up premiums and reduce access to quality, affordable health care coverage, and instead called for the immediate consideration of House Democrats’ discharge petition to force a vote on extending the critical Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced Premium Tax Credit (ePTC). Over 540,000 Tampa Bay residents and 4.7 million Floridians rely on the ACA for health coverage.

Transcript:

I rise to oppose this Republican charade and to stand up for my neighbors back home who deserve quality, affordable health coverage. That includes over half a million of my hard-working neighbors across the Tampa Bay area, 4.7 Floridians, or one in five who live in the Sunshine State, who are doing everything right.

They're entrepreneurs, they're caregivers, they're part-time workers and small business owners like Linda Meisner and her husband, whose premium will go from $288 per month to over $3,200 per month next year. They cannot afford $39,000 for their health care. They are terrified that they're going to lose everything. And David, who is being treated for pancreatic cancer, who is unsure how he will continue treatments and afford everything else.

It is unconscionable that Republicans are ripping away coverage to fund their tax breaks for billionaires and the wealthy and the well-connected. Americans deserve so much better.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-sheila-cherfilus-mccormick-issues-statement-ice-enforcement,Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick Issues Statement on ICE Enforcement in South Florida,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick,C001127,cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov,cherfilus-mccormick,https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. — Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick released a statement on ICE enforcement actions in Broward and across South Florida that have targeted workers during routine traffic stops.

""Hardworking people who contribute to our economy, maintain our neighborhoods, and support their families should not be treated like threats.

These actions are spreading fear through our communities, disrupting local businesses, and harming South Florida’s economy, which relies on immigrant labor in industries like landscaping, construction, agriculture, and hospitality. When workers are afraid to show up, projects stall, small businesses suffer, and costs rise for everyone.

Our immigration policies must be guided by common sense and compassion. Enforcement should focus on serious criminal activity, not on workers trying to earn an honest living. I will continue to work with my colleagues from both sides to call for transparency, accountability, and real immigration reform that strengthens public safety while respecting families who are vital to our communities and our economy.""

###",1,2026-04-22T05:46:42Z,2026-04-22T05:48:06Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4941,"WPS Caucus Co-Chairs Frankel, Kiggans Urge Secretary Rubio to Include Women in Implementing Israel–Hamas Peace Agreement",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL-22) and Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02), co-chairs of the bipartisan Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Caucus, urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a letter to ensure women are meaningfully included in post-war decision-making, reconstruction, and reconciliation as the United States works with international partners to implement the Israel–Hamas peace agreement.

“The Women, Peace, and Security Act of 2017—signed into law by President Trump—recognizes that the full participation of women is essential to lasting security and stability,” the lawmakers wrote. “When women participate in peacebuilding and are afforded tools to succeed, societies are safer, more secure, and more prosperous, and peace is more likely to last. “We look forward to working with you to advance our shared goal of a brighter future for Israelis, Palestinians, and the entire region.”

The members emphasized that women in both Israeli and Palestinian communities have experienced profound disruptions to their safety, families, and daily lives, making their perspectives critical to effective recovery and rebuilding.

In their letter, Reps. Frankel and Kiggans called on the Department of State to:

Include women from diverse backgrounds in U.S.-facilitated dialogue on stabilization and recovery;

Ensure humanitarian and reconstruction efforts reflect women’s priorities, including family reunification, education, infrastructure, and support for children affected by the conflict;

Encourage international partners to elevate women’s representation in peacebuilding and reconstruction initiatives; and

Leverage women-led grassroots initiatives, including through funds authorized under the Middle East Partnership for Peace Act (MEPPA), to support trauma recovery, coexistence programs, and community resilience.

Click here for the full letter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://gimenez.house.gov/2025/12/congressman-carlos-gimenez-takes-to-house-floor-to-oppose-attempts-to-undermine-president-trump-s-mission-in-venezuela,CONGRESSMAN CARLOS GIMENEZ OPPOSES RESOLUTIONS THAT UNDERMINE PRESIDENT TRUMP’S MISSION IN VENEZUELA,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL) took to the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to oppose H. Con. Res. 61 (introduced by Representative Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY-5) and H. Con. Res. 64 (introduced by Representative James P. McGovern (D-MA-2).

The two resolutions would restrict the President of the United States’ ability to confront narco-terrorist threats in the Western Hemisphere and limit the tools available to the President and U.S. Armed Forces to counter foreign terrorist organizations operating in our backyard.

“The Maduro regime is a foreign terrorist organization that uses Venezuela as a base to flood our hemisphere with deadly drugs, said Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez. ""H. Con. Res. 61 and 64 would send exactly the wrong message, inviting danger by tying the hands of our President and pulling back our forces from confronting narco-terrorists operating in our own backyard. As someone who spent a lifetime in public safety and who fled communism, I know that weakness invites aggression. We must confront narco-terrorism head-on, stand with the Venezuelan people, and never surrender to the terrorist regimes and cartels killing our children and poisoning our communities.”

Watch Congressman Gimenez's floor speech in opposition of H. Con. Res. 61 HERE.

Watch Congressman Gimenez's floor speech in opposition of H. Con. Res. 64 HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://laurellee.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-laurel-lee-introduces-legislation-combat-sextortion-and-close,Congresswoman Laurel Lee Introduces Legislation to Combat Sextortion and Close Gaps in Federal Law,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Laurel M. Lee,L000597,laurellee.house.gov,laurellee,https://laurellee.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Laurel Lee recently introduced the Combating Online Predators Act, legislation to strengthen federal law by explicitly criminalizing threats to distribute child sexual abuse material (CSAM)– also known as sextortion– a tactic commonly used by online predators to exploit children.

Sextortion is a form of sexual exploitation in which perpetrators threaten to distribute private or sensitive images unless victims comply with demands for additional sexual content, sexual favors, or money. Children and teens are particularly vulnerable to these crimes, which have increased dramatically in recent years and, in some tragic cases, have led to suicide.

Despite the growing prevalence of sextortion, current federal law does not adequately address this conduct. The primary criminal statute governing the distribution of CSAM—18 U.S.C. §§ 2252 and 2252A—does not explicitly cover threats to distribute such material, allowing predators to evade accountability even when clear harm has occurred.

The Combating Online Predators Act, referred to the House Judiciary Committee, closes this loophole by amending federal law to criminalize intentional threats to distribute CSAM, ensuring law enforcement has the tools necessary to hold offenders accountable and protect victims.

“Sextortion is a devastating crime that preys on fear, shame, and vulnerability—especially among children,”said Congresswoman Laurel Lee. “When predators threaten to distribute explicit images of minors, the harm is real and often irreversible. Congress has a duty to ensure our laws keep pace with the tactics used by online predators, and this legislation closes a critical gap to protect children and deliver justice for victims.”

According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), reports of financial sextortion surged in 2023, with 26,718 reports, up from 10,731 in 2022. The FBI has also warned of a sharp rise in sextortion schemes targeting minors, particularly teenage boys. Just last month, a 15-year-old boy in West Virginia died by suicide after being targeted in a sextortion scam, underscoring the urgent need for congressional action.

The Combating Online Predators Act reflects Congress’s responsibility to confront online child exploitation, modernize federal criminal law, and ensure predators who use threats to exploit children are held fully accountable.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-condemns-war-powers-would-protect-narco-terrorists-and,Díaz-Balart Condemns War Powers That Would Protect Narco-Terrorists and Endanger American Lives,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,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 Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, the Department of State, and Related Programs of the House Committee on Appropriations, spoke on the House floor in opposition to a War Powers resolution that would restrict President Trump's ability to take decisive action against narco-terrorist cartels operating in the Western Hemisphere where their criminal activity most directly threatens the safety and security of the American people.

Watch his remarks here or below.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-patronis-applauds-the-passage-of-the-protect-children-s-innocence-act,Congressman Patronis Applauds the Passage of the Protect Children’s Innocence Act,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Jimmy Patronis,P000622,patronis.house.gov,patronis,https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman applauds the passage of H.R. 3492, Protect Children’s Innocence Act, which will protect children from chemical castration and permanent mutilation.

“As a father of two young boys, I will not stand by while radical woke policies push children into permanent, life-altering medical decisions they can never undo,"" said Congressman Patronis. “Protecting our children isn’t a choice - it’s our moral duty. I’m proud to vote YES for this common-sense legislation and always protect our future generations.”

H.R. 3492, the Protect Children’s Innocence Act, will now be considered by the United States Senate.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/salazar-condemns-war-powers-resolution-undermining-us-fight-against-narco,Salazar Condemns War Powers Resolution Undermining U.S. Fight Against Narco-Terrorism in Venezuela,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Maria Elvira Salazar,S000168,salazar.house.gov,salazar,https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — As Chairwoman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Rep. María Elvira Salazar (FL-27) today spoke on the House floor in opposition to H.Con.Res. 61, the War Powers Resolution that would wrongly restrict the President’s ability to act against presidentially designated terrorist organizations in the Western Hemisphere, including Venezuela.

“This resolution is fundamentally flawed,” said Rep. Salazar. “The War Powers Resolution does not apply to law enforcement or counter-narcotics operations against indicted terrorists like Nicolás Maduro. What the President is doing does not require congressional approval.”

Salazar emphasized that the President has clear constitutional and legal authority to defend the United States from terrorist threats and warned that the resolution would weaken America’s response to narco-terrorism in the region.

“When Maduro is gone and democracy is restored, Venezuela can once again be the most prosperous country in the Caribbean,” Salazar said. “This resolution would only tie the President’s hands.”

Rep. Salazar urged her colleagues to oppose H.Con.Res. 61.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/salazar-warns-mexico-against-enabling-dictators-western-hemisphere,Salazar Warns Mexico Against Enabling Dictators in the Western Hemisphere,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Maria Elvira Salazar,S000168,salazar.house.gov,salazar,https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Chairwoman Rep. María Elvira Salazar (FL-27) presided over a hearing of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, where she issued a forceful warning on Mexico’s role in the region and stressed that continued enabling of authoritarian regimes threatens democratic values and stability across the hemisphere.

In her opening remarks, Salazar emphasized that Mexico is the United States’ closest neighbor and that geographic proximity brings shared responsibility.

“Our hemisphere needs leaders, not bystanders,” said Rep. Salazar. “Mexico is too important to sit on the sidelines. It must stop enabling dictators in Venezuela and Cuba and stand with the United States in defense of freedom, democracy, and the future of the Western Hemisphere.”

While acknowledging areas of improved cooperation between the Mexican government and the United States, Salazar made clear that more must be done, particularly in confronting dictatorships in the region. She pointed to more than $3 billion worth of oil shipped in 55 tankers to the Cuban regime, Mexico’s acceptance of more than 3,000 Cuban doctors under agreements that sent over $100 million to the Cuban regime, not to the doctors themselves, and continued indifference to the suffering of the Venezuelan people and their fight for freedom.

During the hearing, Members heard testimony from Katherine Dueholm, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, and Chris Landberg, Senior Bureau Official in the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs at the Department of State.

As Chairwoman of the Subcommittee, Salazar reaffirmed that a strong, principled U.S.–Mexico partnership is essential to confronting authoritarian regimes, strengthening regional security, and advancing freedom throughout the Western Hemisphere.

You can watch Rep. Salazar’s opening remarks here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3445,Florida Democrats Release Statement Following Vote to Invoke the War Powers Act,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Debbie Wasserman Schultz,W000797,wassermanschultz.house.gov,wassermanschultz,https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, all of Florida’s Congressional Democrats, including U.S. Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Darren Soto (FL-09), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), and Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), released a joint statement after voting in favor of H.Con.Res.61 and H.Con.Res.64, resolutions to invoke the War Powers Act:

“As Floridians, we have no illusions about the brutality of the Maduro dictatorship. Venezuelans voted for a peaceful, democratic transition, but Maduro has clung to power through repression and corruption.

“That's why we have condemned President Trump's termination of legal protections for more than 600,000 Venezuelans while he designates Venezuela's de facto rulers as a terror organization. It is hypocritical to claim Venezuela is safe enough to send back innocent people, while also declaring it dangerous enough that we need to send in troops.

“The President has failed to present a clear strategy to Congress or the American people. He has justified his strikes with baseless claims about ‘Venezuelan fentanyl’ while pardoning major drug traffickers. The President seems more concerned with maximizing oil profits and separating families than bringing the Maduro regime to justice.

“No president can launch military action without the consent of Congress. Allowing this operation to continue without that consultation would set a dangerous precedent that is incompatible with our system of checks and balances.

“Reestablishing the balance of power between Congress and the White House on a topic as serious as war is essential.

“We will stand with the Venezuelan people as they seek a free and democratic Venezuela. We will fight to reverse President Trump’s vicious assault on law-abiding Venezuelans with TPS.

“We will not give the President a blank check to exploit their pain and hardship to usurp Congress's power to authorize the use of force.”

####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FD35D017-6823-4907-9B52-33CF384F83F2,Webster Votes to Fix Obamacare’s Broken Health Care System,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,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, voted to pass H.R. 6703, the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act, legislation that takes a practical, market-based approach to lowering health care costs, expanding access to coverage, and restoring accountability in a system that has grown increasingly unaffordable for American families.

“For years, Americans have been forced into a health care system they cannot afford,” said Rep. Webster. “Under the so-called ‘Affordable Care Act,’ Americans have seen premiums skyrocket, fewer health care choices, and their tax dollars used to subsidize a system that works better for insurance companies than it does for patients and families. The Republican plan offers a real solution that allows Americans to purchase the health care they need, at a price they can afford, from a doctor they choose.”

While Democrats promised that Obamacare would provide affordable coverage, the American people have experienced the opposite. The average premium for single coverage in 2025 is more than $9,300, with family coverage nearly $27,000 a year. Even with existing subsidies, premiums are projected to continue increasing as the underlying costs of Obamacare grow.

The Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act takes a different approach by providing Americans with more options and flexibility to select health care coverage that best fits their needs while lowering costs, expanding access to quality care and increasing transparency in the health care system by:

Providing cost-sharing reduction payments to stabilize the individual market.

Expanding access to Association Health Plans (AHPs) by allowing small businesses and self-employed workers to band together across industries to access higher-quality, more affordable plans.

Strengthening the bargaining power of small business owners and independent workers by giving them access to group rates, more provider networks, and alternatives to costly small-group or individual marketplace plans.

“American families don’t need another subsidy for health insurance companies, they need a health care system that’s affordable and offers real choices,” Rep. Webster added. “The Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act delivers a health care system that lowers costs and gives families more control over their health care decisions.”

The Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act includes provisions from the Working Families Tax Cuts that Congressman Webster fought to include before they were ultimately removed during Senate consideration.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/in-case-you-missed-it-sen-rick-scott-on-cnn-i-m-fighting-to-fix-obamacare-and-drive-the-cost-of-health-care-down-with-my-more-affordable-care-act,IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… Sen. Rick Scott on CNN: I’m Fighting to Fix Obamacare and Drive the Cost of Health Care Down with My More Affordable Care Act,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, Senator Rick Scott joined CNN’s The Source with Kaitlan Collins last night to discuss his health care bill, The More Affordable Care Act, which empowers patients to take control of their health care and shop for plans that best fit their families’ needs. Americans – and even Democrats – know Obamacare has failed, and Senator Scott’s More Affordable Care Act offers a real solution to problems created under Obamacare by delivering commonsense reforms that lower costs, increase transparency, and expand families’ access to personalized coverage for their specific needs. By directing federal support to families rather than insurance companies through HSA-style Trump Health Freedom Accounts that allow funds to be applied to premiums, the More Affordable Care Act will create real competition and consumer choice in the health care market for every American. Chairman August Pfluger is leading this legislation in the House of Representatives.

See more on Senator Scott’s plan from his CNN interview HERE or below:

Senator Scott outlines his More Affordable Care Act in Fox News HERE and with Chairman Pfluger in the Washington Examiner HERE. The More Affordable Care Act:

Establishes Trump Health Freedom Accounts, HSA-style accounts that ensure federal dollars to support families are delivered to them directly, not funneled to insurance companies;

These funds can be applied to premiums and will be Hyde-compliant by restricting use on abortion health plans or abortion services;

Offers more options for plans that will create market-driven incentives to drive down costs;

Allows Americans to shop across state lines with the creation of a state waiver program within the Affordable Care Act, further expanding competition within the health insurance market and the availability of health insurance plans within existing ACA exchanges.

Any health insurance plan that is approved by a waiver state’s insurance commissioner shall be sold on an easily accessible exchange, whether that’s the federal exchange of healthcare.gov, a state’s exchange, or a state-managed, commercially run exchange.

Enhances President Trump’s Executive Order to increase transparency in health care and provide patients with the price and quality of a good or service in advance. Families will have up-front pricing on what things will cost them – a health care menu – so they can make informed decisions and plan for their needs.

Maintains protections for pre-existing conditions; and

Enhances the Small Business Tax Credit to encourage employer-sponsored coverage and increase accessibility.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-announces-big-wins-for-florida-pres-trump-s-agenda-following-fy2026-ndaa-passage,"Sen. Rick Scott Announces Big Wins for Florida, Pres. Trump’s Agenda Following FY2026 NDAA Passage",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Senator Rick Scott, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and chairman of the SASC Subcommittee on Seapower, announced big wins for Florida, our warfighters, and President Trump’s agenda following the final passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in the House and Senate. Senator Scott has fought hard to secure provisions in the NDAA to support Florida’s military men and women, veterans, and their families. This year’s NDAA delivers and builds on his work to hold Communist China accountable and invest in Florida’s military installations and service members, including improvement projects at Eglin Air Force Base, Homestead Air Reserve Base, and Florida’s Space Coast.

The final package included Senator Scott’s Chinese List Entity Alignment and Review (CLEAR) Act, which requires a full review by the Department of War (DoW) of any Chinese entity listed under any other U.S. government restrictions to determine whether it should also appear on the 1260H list of Chinese companies benefitting their military.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Our military men and women put their lives on the line every day to keep our country and our communities safe. As Florida’s U.S. Senator, it is my honor to fight for these heroes and their families in Congress by working with President Trump to deliver the support and resources necessary to complete their mission of keeping our country safe, while also showing up for their loved ones.

“This year’s NDAA includes big wins for the Sunshine State, our military community, and our national security, with key investments to support Florida’s military installations, give our service members a well-deserved raise, keep Homestead Air Reserve fully ready for a renewed flying mission, and ensure this administration has the resources they need to stand up to our adversaries and enact peace through strength around the world.

“As our nation faces enemies and growing threats from around the globe, I am especially proud to have secured key provisions that protect our national security by getting Communist China out of our supply chains, holding North Korea and Iran accountable, and standing with allies like Israel that work with us to fight evil. I will always fight to deliver for our warfighters, their families, and our great state and to advance our national security.”

Senator Scott successfully fought to include several amendments and measures in the FY 2026 NDAA, including:

A force-wide pay raise of 3.8% for military members;

Securing over $950 million for military construction projects throughout Florida, including the land acquisition and building of a Child Development Center at Eglin Air Force Base to increase access to childcare for military families in the Panhandle;

Extending the joint use prohibition at Homestead Air Reserve Base to 2034 to protect the military mission as threats to U.S. national security rise in Latin America;

Providing support for United States’ ally, Israel, and a total of $80 million for counter-tunneling cooperation; and

Allowing five Service Academy student-athletes to play professional sports and continue to serve our country;

Enact a ban on purchase of Communist Chinese computers and printers by the Department of War (DoW);

Ban purchase of Communist Chinese solar panels and inverters from Foreign Entities of Concern;

Ensure the Secretary of War can add Communist Chinese Companies to the 1260H list if those companies are added to other lists of concern;

Require the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to produce a report on the wealth of the Chinese Communist Party's leadership;

Requiring the Secretary of Defense to gather information about utilizing civilian large cargo aircraft to continue the rapid growth and development of Florida’s space coast

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-applauds-expansion-newborn-screening-highlights-beacham-familys,"Bilirakis Applauds Expansion of Newborn Screening, Highlights Beacham Family’s Story",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,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 (R-FL), Co-Chair of the Congressional Rare Disease Caucus, today praised the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ decision to add Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP), underscoring the importance of early diagnosis for children and families across the nation. Congressman Bilirakis joined HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., fellow Members of Congress, patient advocates, and families at today’s announcement, including the Beacham family and their daughter, Mattie, whose personal journey illustrates the life-changing impact of early newborn screening.

“I was proud to attend today’s compassionate announcement by Secretary Kennedy,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “As Co-Chair of the Congressional Rare Disease Caucus, I have worked for years to expand newborn screening so that no child suffers because of a lack of diagnosis. This action will help ensure earlier diagnoses, better treatments, and more hope for families—while also advancing research and innovation for rare diseases.”

Bilirakis emphasized the significance of the Beacham family’s participation and the powerful reminder their story provides.

“I was especially honored to stand with the Beacham family and their daughter, Mattie,” Bilirakis continued. “Mattie’s story underscores exactly why this issue matters. If her rare disease had been diagnosed at birth, she could have avoided much of the pain she has endured in her short life. No family should have to wonder ‘what if,’ and no child should have to suffer unnecessarily because a diagnosis came too late.”

DMD and MLD are often not diagnosed until children are four or five years old, after irreversible damage has already occurred. Adding these conditions to the RUSP will give families critical answers at birth, allowing children to access FDA-approved therapies at the most effective stage and potentially change the course of their lives.

“This decision represents a monumental step forward rooted in compassion and science,” Bilirakis said. “I want to ensure children like Mattie have the best possible start in life. Early screening can mean the difference between years of uncertainty and pain, and a future filled with timely care, informed decisions, and hope.”

The RUSP serves as a federal recommendation for universal newborn screening, with states determining implementation. Congressman Bilirakis encouraged states to move swiftly to adopt the new screenings and reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for children and families affected by rare diseases.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2440,Donalds Leads Florida Delegation In Praising The Successful Implementation Of SpaceX's Starship Program,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Byron Donalds,D000032,donalds.house.gov,donalds,https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Byron Donalds led the Florida Congressional Delegation in praising Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, U.S. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford for their continued efforts to maintain American dominance in space.

Under the Trump administration, SpaceX's Starship operations will primarily occur within the state of Florida. These operations will foster local and statewide economic growth through renewed investment and the substantial addition of jobs across the state.

SpaceX Starship will operate from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) within the Kennedy Space Center in 2026. Following that, SpaceX Starship will utilize Launch Complex 37 (SLC-37) in 2027. Starship is critical in supporting efforts of national security and NASA-sponsored programs.

The Department of Transportation (DOT), the Department of the Air Force (DAF), and the FAA have been crucial in supporting and nurturing Starship's presence in the state of Florida. The tactical management and broad coordination of these departments have been critical to the successful start of these Starship flights.

Read the full text of the letter here or below:

The Honorable Sean Duffy

Secretary of Transportation

Acting Administrator, NASA

300 E St SW

Washington, DC 20546

The Honorable Troy Meink

Secretary of the Air Force

1670 Air Force Pentagon

Washington, DC 20330

The Honorable Bryan Bedford

Administrator, Federal Aviation Administration

800 Independence Avenue SW

Washington, DC 2059

Dear Secretary Duffy, Secretary Meink, and Administrator Bedford:

We write regarding your efforts to enable SpaceX's Starship to operate at a high rate from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) within Kennedy Space Center starting in 2026 and Space Launch Complex 37 (SLC-37) within Cape Canaveral Space Force Station starting in 2027. As you know, Starship directly supports critical NASA and national security priorities, including safely landing Americans on the Moon before China and expanding broadband access to millions of Americans. Starship's fully reusable architecture positions the United States to establish a permanent crewed presence on the Moon and ultimately Mars. These operations will principally occur from Florida, fostering a boom in the local economy with billions of dollars of investment and thousands of new high-paying jobs across our state.

Your work to integrate these operations into the Cape Canaveral spaceport and into the National Airspace System (NAS) will ensure continued American leadership in space. According to SpaceX, the test campaign that you and commercial partners have performed validates that LOX/Methane vehicle systems like Starship can operate concurrently without any disruption to other companies or to U.S. Government assets. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) continues to safely and effectively integrate Starship flights—and other rockets—into the National Airspace System (NAS).

According to the FAA, during Starship’s tenth test flight on August 26, FAA reopened affected airspace within nine minutes—less time than most Florida summer thunderstorms—with no disruption to air traffic, an incredible achievement made possible through your effective tactical management and broad coordination. We are confident that FAA will continue to responsibly and efficiently manage these operations as Starship flights begin in Florida. Thank you for your full and fair consideration of this important matter, consistent with applicable statute and agency guidelines.

Sincerely,

Byron Donalds (R-FL) Member of Congress

Aaron Bean (R-FL) Member of Congress

Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) Member of Congress

Vern Buchanan (R-FL) Member of Congress

Kat Cammack (R-FL) Member of Congress

Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) Member of Congress

Neal Dunn, M.D. (R-FL) Member of Congress

Randy Fine (R-FL) Member of Congress

Carlos Gimenez (R-FL) Member of Congress

Laurel Lee (R-FL) Member of Congress

Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) Member of Congress

Brian Mast (R-FL) Member of Congress

Cory Mills (R-FL) Member of Congress

Jimmy Patronis (R-FL) Member of Congress

John Rutherford (R-FL) Member of Congress

Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL) Member of Congress

Daniel Webster (R-FL) Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4939,Bipartisan Florida Delegation Urges Implementation of Proposal to Strengthen HIV/AIDS Care,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Lois Frankel,F000462,frankel.house.gov,frankel,https://frankel.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"A bipartisan group of Florida lawmakers is urging swift implementation of proposed updates to the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program funding formula—changes that would significantly strengthen Florida’s ability to provide lifesaving care to low-income people living with HIV/AIDS.

The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, established by Congress in 1990, provides critical medical care and support services to approximately 500,000 low-income Americans each year. Florida has one of the largest HIV-positive populations in the nation, with more than 100,000 Floridians living with HIV.

Last month, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)—the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services agency that administers the program—proposed updating the funding formula to reflect where people live today, rather than where they were originally diagnosed. The current formula disadvantages high-growth states like Florida, which experiences significant migration and population shifts each year.

The bipartisan Florida delegation urged HRSA to move forward with the update so federal resources better align with patient needs and current population realities.

“Florida’s HIV community has grown and changed, but the funding formula hasn’t kept up,” said Rep. Frankel (D-FL-22). “This is about making sure federal dollars follow patients so people can get tested, treated, and stay healthy. That’s good public health and good stewardship of taxpayer dollars.”

The letter was led by Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL-22) and signed by Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) as well as Representatives Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL-26), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25), Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16), Kathy Castor (D-FL-14), Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24), John Rutherford (R-FL-05), Darren Soto (D-FL-09), Kat Cammack (R-FL-03), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20), Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL-10), Laurel Lee (R-FL-15), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23), and Randy Fine (R-FL-06).

To read the full letter, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases/frost-alsobrooks-van-hollen-wyden-introduce-bill-to-reverse-gun-silencer-tax-cuts-and-use-it-to-pay-for-health-care,"Frost, Alsobrooks, Van Hollen, Wyden Introduce Bill to Reverse Gun Silencer Tax Cuts and Use it to Pay for Health Care",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Maxwell Frost,F000476,frost.house.gov,frost,https://frost.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – As reported in Politico’s Morning Tax, Congressman Maxwell Frost (D-FL), Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) and Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR), alongside Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD.), Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), introduced the Medicare Investment and Gun Violence Prevention Act, which would repeal the horrific gun tax cuts, including on silencers and sawed-off shotguns included in the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” and repurpose the funding to Medicare – which would equal $1.7 billion over the next decade.

Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO) has cosponsored the Medicare Investment and Gun Violence Prevention Act in the House of Representatives.

""Trump’s so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill” doesn’t just slash life-saving programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and Medicare—it also makes our communities less safe by subsidizing silencers and sawed-off shotguns, weapons that make mass shootings deadlier and harder to stop. At a time when our country has seen more mass shootings than days in the year, and as seniors and families face rising health care costs, this legislation reverses these tax cuts and puts people’s health, safety, and well-being above the profits of the gun industry,” said Congressman Frost.

“This legislation is a 2-for-1 response to Republicans driving up health care costs and letting guns invade our communities. When Republicans snuck in tax cuts to the Big Ugly Bill on gun silencers and short-barreled rifles, they made their position clear: guns matter more than Americans’ lives. At a time when health care costs are skyrocketing, and just days after yet another tragic school shooting, now is the time to act. Our bill will repeal the unnecessary tax cuts on deadly weapons and use the money saved for Americans’ health care, which has been decimated by Republicans,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

“While an endless cycle of gun violence continues to tear apart communities across our nation, Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress are gutting Americans’ health care to pay for handouts for their billionaire buddies, including the gun industry. With this legislation, we’re reversing a reckless gun industry tax giveaway and redirecting that funding towards strengthening Medicare and protecting public health,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“In a bill that was chock full of right-wing handouts, the tax break Republicans created for sawed-off shotguns and silencers might be the most ridiculous. Repealing it and plowing that money back into health care is a no brainer,” Senator Wyden said.

“This summer, Republicans passed a provision in the dead-of-night that eliminated excise taxes on firearm silencers. This change is devastating to public safety and greatly impedes law enforcement efforts to keep our communities safe,” said Congressman Neguse. “Today, alongside my colleagues Senator Alsobrooks and Representative Frost, we’ve introduced a simple bill that reverses this policy and reinforces the long-maintained regulations for firearm silencers under the NFA – because the American people and our law enforcement deserve better.”

“This bill reverses a dangerous giveaway to the gun industry by restoring long-standing National Firearms Act taxes on silencers and sawed-off shotguns—safeguards that have been in place since the NFA was enacted in 1934,” said Po Murray, Chairwoman of Newtown Action Alliance. “The so-called ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ erased these common-sense taxes, making the most dangerous weapons cheaper and easier to access. Senators Alsobrooks and Wyden are correcting that mistake by restoring the taxes and redirecting $1.7 billion to Medicare, prioritizing public safety and health care over special interests. Newtown Action Alliance implores Congress to urgently pass this legislation.”

“For nearly a century, this nation has sensibly and specially regulated silencers and certain firearms because they pose a severe threat to public safety if placed in the wrong hands. Trump’s One Big Ugly Bill gave the gun industry a tax break on NFA weapons, including silencers, that allows them to categorically put profits over people’s lives and while also forcing massive cuts to Medicaid and Medicare – further endangering survivors of gun violence and all others who rely on these programs. Brady thanks Senators Alsobrooks and Wyden for their leadership in introducing this legislation to repeal this dangerous tax cut for the gun industry and help ensure access to medical care for survivors of gun violence,” said Mark Collins, Federal Policy Director, Brady.

“Gun violence does not end in the emergency room; it often results in lifelong injuries and disabilities that place lasting demands on our health care system. Redirecting these funds to Medicare recognizes the real, long-term costs of violence and puts public dollars toward care, not weapons,” said Karen Herren, Executive Director, Marylanders to Prevent Gun Violence.

Read full text of the bill here.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://gimenez.house.gov/2025/12/congressman-carlos-gimenez-recognizes-fernando-mendoza-winner-of-the-2025-heisman-trophy,"CONGRESSMAN CARLOS GIMENEZ RECOGNIZES FERNANDO MENDOZA, WINNER OF THE 2025 HEISMAN TROPHY",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL) took to the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize his fellow Christopher Columbus High School Explorer and constituent, Fernando Mendoza, a talented athlete, man of faith, team player, and the very first Cuban American to win the Heisman Trophy.

Watch Congressman Gimenez's floor speech HERE.

Read Congressman Gimenez's floor speech as prepared for delivery below:

""Mister speaker, I rise today to congratulate my fellow Columbus Explorer, Fernando Mendoza, winner of the 2025 Heisman trophy.

""Fernando’s remarkable journey began in Miami, Florida, at Christopher Columbus high school, an institution known not only for producing elite athletes, but for instilling faith, discipline, leadership, and character.

""Miami has long been a cradle of football excellence, and Fernando Mendoza now joins that proud legacy. His achievement reflects the values of perseverance, sacrifice, and opportunity that define our community.

""As the first Cuban American to win the Heisman trophy, Fernando’s victory carries special meaning. His story reminds us that in America, deep faith, hard work, and determination know no limits.

""Miami is proud. Columbus explorers are proud. And today, the United States congress proudly recognizes Fernando Mendoza for this historic achievement.

""Congratulations, Fernando, on a moment that will inspire generations to come.

""Adelante!""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mast.house.gov/press-releases?ID=9890B5B3-FD36-4239-9074-4594188E2FF3,"Mast introduces bill to get qualified, American truck drivers on the road",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Brian J. Mast,M001199,mast.house.gov,mast,https://mast.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Brian Mast introduced the Ceasing Age-Based Trucking Restrictions (CAB) Act to make it easier for younger, American truck drivers to be able to work across state lines and help keep America’s supply chain keep moving.

“The CAB Act is about putting American workers first and fixing a system that doesn’t make sense. Right now, we’re blocking capable young Americans from taking trucking jobs, forcing companies to increasingly rely on foreign drivers who are unable to read English or understand road signs. If an 18-, 19-, or 20-year-old can safely drive a truck in their home state, they shouldn’t be sidelined by a federal technicality. This bill removes an unnecessary barrier, strengthens our supply chain, and ensures these jobs go to qualified Americans,” said Rep. Brian Mast.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/in-case-you-missed-it-sen-rick-scott-chair-august-pfluger-discuss-their-more-affordable-care-act-on-republican-study-committee-podcast,"IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… Sen. Rick Scott, Chair August Pfluger Discuss their More Affordable Care Act on Republican Study Committee Podcast",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"Stop Giving Money to Insurance Companies - Give it to the Person!

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, Senator Rick Scott joined Republican Study Committee Chairman August Pfluger on the ‘Right to the Point’ podcast to discuss their bill to fix Obamacare – the More Affordable Care Act. During the episode, Senator Scott and Chairman Pfluger outlined how their plan would address the failures of Obamacare that have driven up costs and limited choices for American families. The More Affordable Care Act delivers commonsense reforms to lower premiums, increase transparency, and expand access to plans that fit families’ individual needs by empowering Americans to be consumers in their own health care by directing federal support to each family, not insurance companies, through HSA-style Trump Health Freedom Accounts to create real competition and consumer choice in the health care market.

Read Senator Scott’s and Chairman Pfluger’s efforts in their recent Washington Examiner op-ed HERE or watch them in the full podcast episode below.

Senators Mike Lee and Cynthia Lummis are cosponsors in the Senate. Congressmen Aaron Bean, Julie Fedorchak, Jim Baird, Andrew Clyde, and Craig Goldman are cosponsors in the House of Representatives. Read what industry leaders are saying about the More Affordable Care Act HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://mills.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-cory-mills-introduces-fubar-act-cut-congressional-pay-when-budget,"Congressman Cory Mills Introduces the FUBAR Act, to Cut Congressional Pay When the Budget Isn’t Passed",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Cory Mills,M001216,mills.house.gov,mills,https://mills.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Rep. Cory Mills introduced new legislation to ensure Members of Congress face real consequences when they fail to do their job and fund the federal government on time. The Failed to Uphold the Budget? Allowance: Reduced Act or the ‘‘FUBAR Act,"" means Members of Congress will earn virtually nothing from the first day of a government shutdown through that congressional session. The name reflects what every service member already knows: when something is ""FUBAR,"" it’s been mangled, broken, or rendered useless. Americans should never be held hostage while Washington plays partisan games with their livelihoods. During the FY26 shutdown, service members, federal employees, welfare recipients, and nonprofits were left without support, while Members of Congress continued to collect full paychecks. The situation was absolutely unacceptable. While previous efforts to strip congressional pay have run into constitutional concerns, the FUBAR Act is specifically crafted to address both Article I, Section 6 limitations and 27th Amendment restrictions surrounding changes to Member compensation. By extending the pay reduction beyond the shutdown period itself, the bill increases the pressure on lawmakers to prevent even short-term shutdowns that cause uncertainty and harm to the American people.

“This bill is simple, if Congress can’t do its job, Members shouldn’t get paid. Period,” Congressman Mills said. “Congress owes every American family accountability. The American people deserve a government that delivers results, not partisan games and not aCongress that rewards itself for failure.”

The FUBAR Act reaffirms Congress’ Article I responsibility to responsibly fund the federal government and ensures Members cannot evade accountability while others bear the consequences of inaction.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405108,U.S. Rep. Castor Announces 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winner,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) announced that Sharan Santharam Srinivasan, Ammar Omar and Sujay Korada, 12th graders from Robinson High School, were awarded the top prize in her annual congressional app challenge with their app “SunScreened.” The app was created with JavaScript and AI image processing and aims to help Americans understand the harms of UV rays and the importance of sunscreen for overall skin health. The winner will be recognized at the U.S. Capitol during the House of Code celebration in the spring, alongside other winners of congressional app competitions from across the country.

“Encouraging students to explore STEM fields through the app challenge is a great way to help younger generations learn about science and technology in a creative manner and spark their interest in the STEM workforce. It is incredible to see students across the Tampa Bay area combine public good with technology. I am proud that this app will represent the 14th District, and I know it will help not only our neighbors in the Sunshine State but Americans across the country. I’m grateful for Sharan, Ammar and Sujay’s dedication to science, technology, and the well-being of their neighbors in the Tampa Bay area and look forward to them representing our community in the halls of the U.S. Capitol in the spring,” said Rep. Castor.

“The Florida sun is unforgettable. It presses down on you in strong heat waves. On the soccer field, the grass sticks to your legs, the sweat trickles down, and the sunlight burns itself into your memory. We loved that feeling: the energy, the adrenaline, and the brightness that defined every Floridian’s afternoon. We got used to the heat and humidity, but never thought much about the sun itself. Everyone loves to tan since sunburns are a symbolic badge of summer, and something to laugh about, but what we didn’t realize was that while we were chasing the glow, the sun was taking a quiet toll on our skin. That’s when the realization sparked Sunscreened. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S and in Florida. We wanted to create something that would transform awareness into action. An app that helps people understand their relationship with the sun. Sunscreened employs real-time UV tracking, personalized SPF recommendations, burn-time calculations, and AI-powered skin analysis,” said Sharan, Ammar and Sujay.

A video demonstration of the app is available here.

The Congressional App Challenge has inspired tens of thousands of students nationwide to learn to code. With the support of their Member of Congress, these students have produced apps that address problems locally, nationally, and globally. The numbers don’t lie: each year, they have more Congressional hosts and more diverse student participants from underrepresented communities. According to the National Science Foundation, in 2021, nearly a quarter (24%) of individuals in the U.S. workforce were employed in STEM occupations.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-salazar-castor-reintroduce-bipartisan-legislation-lower-flood-insurance,"Reps. Salazar, Castor Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Lower Flood Insurance Costs",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Maria Elvira Salazar,S000168,salazar.house.gov,salazar,https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Reps. Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27) and Kathy Castor (FL-14) reintroduced the Continuous Coverage for Flood Insurance Act, legislation that would help lower costs by ensuring the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allows homeowners to maintain flood insurance coverage outside the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

This bill comes at a critical time as homeowners face rising premiums and limited affordable insurance options.

""Now more than ever, Miami residents and Americans nationwide deserve real choice and affordable coverage in the flood-insurance market,"" said Rep. Maria Salazar. ""By opening the door to greater private-sector involvement, the Continuous Coverage for Flood Insurance Act will lower the burden on U.S. taxpayers and provide stronger, more reliable protection.”

“Families, homeowners and small businesses across Florida – including across the recovering Tampa Bay area – deserve real financial stability, peace of mind and clarity when it comes to flood insurance,” said Rep. Kathy Castor. “Our bipartisan legislation empowers consumers with more options by allowing access to private flood insurance, without penalty. For coastal communities like Tampa Bay, healthy competition can lower costs, expand the insurance pool and help bring down flood insurance rates. I’m pleased to work with my fellow Floridian, Rep. Maria Salazar, to ease cost burdens on hardworking Floridians and expand consumer choice in continuous flood insurance coverage.”

In 2012, Congress enacted the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act to reform the NFIP. Among other reforms, the Biggert-Waters Act required federal lending institutions to accept certain non-NFIP insurance policies, reinforcing the fact that other non-NFIP insurance policies can be used to satisfy the NFIP’s mandatory purchase requirement. As a result of this law, in February 2019, a final rule was issued regarding the acceptance of non-NFIP insurance, which took effect on July 1, 2019.

Many consumers are unable to take advantage of these potentially beneficial and cost-effective non-NFIP insurance policies. Currently, the NFIP requires continuous coverage to be eligible for grandfathered rates, but only counts the time in an NFIP policy. If a policyholder chooses to leave the program and return later, the NFIP will charge the full, non-grandfathered rate – even if the policyholder decides to obtain a non-NFIP insurance policy that complies with the new rule. The prospect of higher insurance rates is not only a deterrent to the marketplace but also a barrier to more affordable flood insurance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://gimenez.house.gov/2025/12/congressman-carlos-gimenez-commends-president-trump-on-dhs-enforcement-course-correction,CONGRESSMAN CARLOS GIMENEZ COMMENDS PRESIDENT TRUMP ON DHS ENFORCEMENT COURSE CORRECTION,2025-12-13,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL) released a statement in response to reports of the Trump Administration’s decision to refocus Department of Homeland Security (DHS) enforcement priorities on violent criminals and serious offenders who pose a real threat to public safety.

""From day one, I have been clear that the Department of Homeland Security must focus its resources on violent criminals and serious offenders who pose a real, credible threat to public safety. This course correction in enforcement priorities is the right move,"" said Congressman Carlos Gimenez. ""Immigration enforcement must be intelligence driven, crime focused, and centered on protecting American communities. I thank President Trump and his Administration for making this important course correction, and I will continue working to ensure DHS remains focused on removing dangerous individuals and upholding the rule of law.""

""Desde el primer día, he sido claro en que el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional debe enfocar sus recursos en criminales violentos y delincuentes graves que representan una amenaza real y creíble para la seguridad pública. Esta corrección en las prioridades de aplicación de la ley es el paso correcto,"" dijo Congressman Carlos Gimenez. ""La aplicación de las leyes migratorias debe estar basada en inteligencia, enfocada en el crimen y centrada en proteger a las comunidades estadounidenses. Agradezco al presidente Trump y a su Administración por realizar esta importante corrección de rumbo, y continuaré trabajando para asegurar que el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional permanezca enfocado en remover a individuos peligrosos y en defender el estado de derecho.""

Read the Fox News article HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-wilson-secures-525-million-to-expand-mental-health-services-in-miami-dade-and-broward-schools,Rep. Wilson Secures $5.25 Million to Expand Mental Health Services in Miami-Dade and Broward Schools,2025-12-13,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Frederica S. Wilson,W000808,wilson.house.gov,wilson,https://wilson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — This week, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson, a senior member of the U.S. House of Representatives Education and Workforce Committee, helped secure $4,000,000 in federal funding for Miami-Dade County Public Schools and $1,250,000 in federal funding for Broward County Public Schools over the course of four years. This funding will help support partnerships to train school-based mental health service providers for employment in schools and local educational agencies.

“We are in a mental health crisis in this country, and our children are carrying the weight of it. Over the past decade, suicide rates among young people have been rising, depression is rising, and too many of our children are hurting in ways we don’t always see. When children spend the majority of their days in schools, we should have mental health professionals who can support them. And oftentimes, many children do not have access to mental health resources outside of school. No one asks, “Are you okay?” We don’t always know what our children are walking into when they leave school or what happens when they are alone with their friends. We don’t know the stress, the trauma, the fear they may be living with every single day. This crisis also doesn’t affect every child equally. Low-income students, students of color, LGBTQ+ youth, and other marginalized communities face added stress from systemic barriers that compound mental health challenges. These inequities make access to care even more critical.” Congresswoman Frederica Wilson said, “As a former principal, a former educator, and through my work with the 5000 Role Models of Excellence, I’ve seen it up close. I’ve seen children struggling because of chaos at home, pressure at school, or because they were misunderstood, mislabeled, or punished simply for being who they are. Too many of them suffer in silence because no one gave them the space to speak or told them that they are loved. That’s why schools must be part of the solution, especially at a young age when emotional, social, and cognitive development is taking shape. When we prioritize the mental health of our youth, we set them up to be healthier adults. That’s why I’m proud to deliver funds to support the mental health and well-being of our students here in Miami-Dade and Broward County Schools because it’s time we address this mental health crisis head-on.”

Congresswoman Frederica Wilson has held multiple hearings and forums discussing the mental health crisis among Black men and boys with the nation’s top mental health leaders, including two events in Washington, D.C., and one in New York City.

Congresswoman Frederica Wilson has previously delivered funds to support mental health initiatives in Miami-Dade County, including the Adrienne Arsht Center’s “I am Me,” an Arts-Based Youth Mental Health Initiative.

For Broward County Public Schools, funding will go towards Broward’s PATH Forward program. Broward’s PATH Forward (Psychologist Advancement and Training Hub) expands the pipeline of credentialed school psychologists within Broward County Public Schools. Over 48 months, Broward’s PATH Forward will support three Broward County Public School employees through graduate program completion and certification, fund 23 full-time school psychology interns, and provide certification exam support for all participants. The project will result in 26 total certifications, a 25 percent increase in schools served by trained school psychology personnel, more than 20,000 hours of student mental health services, and the employment of 15 to 20 new school psychologists within Broward County Public Schools by the end of the grant period. Primary activities include executing university partnerships, providing tuition support, funding intern stipends and supervision, supporting certification exams, and embedding sustainability within Broward County Public Schools’ Human Resources. Broward County Public Schools will receive $306,472 for 2026 and will continue to receive funding for four years.

For Miami-Dade County Public Schools, funding will go towards their Project HOPE-SP. Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Project HOPE-SP (Holistic Opportunities for Preparation and Excellence in School Psychology) will increase the number of credentialed school psychologists through a school-based mental health partnership with a nationally accredited school psychology program. The program will provide coursework and training through collaborative projects and monthly workshops on evidence-based assessment and intervention practices. The collaborative partnership enables capacity building, specifically through the recruitment and retention of school psychologists, the enhancement of field experience using evidence-based practices, and the strengthening of access and delivery of mental health interventions in 257 high-need schools that serve 170,058 students. The project will support 34 graduate students in School Psychology who will receive mentorship, financial support, and specialized training in multi-tiered systems of support and implementation of mental health interventions. Miami-Dade County Public Schools will receive $1 million in 2026 for this program and will continue to receive funding for four years.

This funding for Miami-Dade County Public Schools and Broward County Public Schools is provided through the Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grant Program. The Mental Health Service Professionals Demonstration Program provides competitive grants to test and evaluate innovative partnerships between institutions of higher education and States or high-need local education agencies to train school counselors, social workers, psychologists, or other mental health professionals qualified to provide school-based mental health services, with the goal of expanding the pipeline of these workers into low-income public elementary schools and secondary schools in order to address the shortages of mental health service professionals in such schools.

###",1,2026-04-09T05:39:42Z,2026-04-09T05:40:59Z
https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bean-calls-bold-action-rein-healthcare-spending,Congressman Bean Calls for Bold Action to Rein in Healthcare Spending,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Aaron Bean,B001314,bean.house.gov,bean,https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Today, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) testified before the House Energy and Commerce Committee during its Member Day hearing, sounding the alarm on runaway healthcare costs and the urgent need to rein in Washington’s wasteful spending.

Congressman Bean said, “Rampant fraud and unchecked spending are driving costs higher and eroding trust. It’s time to break the cycle and ensure taxpayer dollars are used for their intended purpose. With these reforms, we can protect vulnerable Americans, restore confidence in our healthcare system, and deliver the efficient, affordable care the American people deserve.”

BACKGROUND

During the hearing, Congressman Bean outlined legislative action he has taken to crack down on fraud and restore accountability in America’s healthcare system:

H.R. 6538, More Affordable Care Act: Takes on Obamacare’s failures and delivers real relief by driving down costs and empowering families to choose the care that fits their needs.

H.R. 5873, PROMPT Act: Enhances transparency and accountability in Medicare by ensuring beneficiaries receive timely, clear information about services and costs.

H.R. 5871, We Want Our Healthcare Money Back Act: Requires the HHS Inspector General to submit quarterly reports to Congress on Medicare and Medicaid fraud.

Soon to be introduced, the Skin in the Game Act: Institutes a minimum monthly premium payment to safeguard against fraud in subsidized plans and restore accountability.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2433,Donalds Joins House Oversight Committee: Addresses The Failed ACA Marketplace,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Byron Donalds,D000032,donalds.house.gov,donalds,https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) joined the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs and the Subcommittee on Health Care and Financial Services for a joint hearing entitled “Lowering the Cost of Healthcare: Technology’s Role in Driving Affordability” to examine the main causes of rising healthcare costs in the United States, including burdensome regulations from the Biden administration, and to analyze how medical technology innovations can help alleviate this problem.

Mr. Brian Whorley, Chief Executive Officer at Paytient Technologies, Inc.; Dr. Darius Lakdawalla, Quintiles Chair in Pharmaceutical Development and Regulatory Innovation and Chief Scientific Officer at the Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, University of Southern California; Dr. Ziad Obermeyer, Blue Cross of California Distinguished Associate Professor, Health Policy and Management, University of California-Berkeley; and Mr. Chris Jacobs, Founder of Juniper Research Group joined the committee to testify as witnesses.

Watch the Congressman's full remarks here.

Read the transcript of the Congressman's opening remarks below:

""Thank you, Chairman. I appreciate your sentiment. Before I get into questions, I think it's important to acknowledge what was just said. I want to start with some of the positives I just heard. The truth is that, yes, more competition in healthcare is going to be critical to deliver affordable care to consumers. And that's something, I think, which is a very bipartisan statement. I think both sides of the aisle could agree on that. I think one of the other things that was also just acknowledged is that the entire purpose of the Affordable Care Act was not the Affordable Care Act. It was to take the United States towards single-payer healthcare. That was the design 15 years ago. So, the American people need to understand the reason why costs are rising in healthcare and in health insurance is by design by Congressional Democrats at the time and by then President Barack Obama. They did want a public option. They wanted to put a public option in the Affordable Care Act that was going to be lower costs than what their own regulatory framework would allow in the private markets. The only reason they didn't get the public option is because they didn't have the votes. A guy named Scott Brown won a Senate election in Massachusetts. I know that sounds crazy today, but he did, and it stopped them from actually pushing forward with the public option. Which, by the way, its entire design was to move America towards single-payer healthcare. The arc of history in healthcare needs to be clear on this point. Single-payer healthcare does not work. It never will. Because, to the point of my colleague from the other side of the aisle, single-payer is the very definition of vertical integration of the healthcare system, which will not lead to lower costs for the American people.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-presents-congressional-record-celebrating-ave-maria-parish,Díaz-Balart Presents Congressional Record Celebrating Ave Maria Parish Choir’s White House Christmas Performance,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,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 Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Dean of the Florida Delegation, presented a Congressional Record entry celebrating the Ave Maria Parish Choir for its performance on December 9th as part of the 2025 White House Christmas tradition.

Each year, the White House receives hundreds of applications, with only a select few chosen to perform. Being invited is a distinct and meaningful honor. Performances traditionally take place on the State Floor of the White House at the invitation of the President and First Lady, featuring musical groups from across the United States.

Congressman Díaz-Balart said, “It is a tremendous honor and privilege to represent Ave Maria, Florida, and I am elated to present this Congressional Record entry recognizing the Ave Maria Parish’s outstanding performance at the White House.

The Ave Maria community has become a spiritual home and a strong foundation for countless Catholics who have sought a place centered on faith, family, and fellowship. Every group that performs at the White House becomes a special part of its history and in the story of American greatness. I could not be prouder of the Ave Maria community for this extraordinary achievement.

I congratulate the 30 musicians from the Ave Maria Parish who performed over ten songs and commend Fr. David Vidal and Mark Hass, the Director of Music at the Parish, for their leadership and dedication. I would also like to recognize outstanding Ave Maria residents Michael Caputo and Manuel Milanés.

This is a truly memorable occasion for our entire Southern Florida community.”

Read the full resolution here or below

""Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize our very own Ave Maria Parish Choir, hand-selected by the White House to participate in a performance in our nation’s capital. Their performance this week honors not only their flourishing parish, but our entire Southwest Florida community.

From its inception, the Ave Maria Parish Choir—directed with vision and care by Marian Mandy—has embraced a calling to elevate worship through the universal language of sacred music. This ensemble embodies the Parish’s commitment to forming hearts, minds, and voices for the glory of God.

The Ave Maria community itself provides the rich foundation from which this choir and its ministries have grown. Since its establishment in 2007, between Naples and Fort Lauderdale, Ave Maria has become a spiritual home for countless Catholics who have sought a community like this one. In the heart of Collier County, the town reflects a way of life centered on faith, family, and fellowship. Children ride bicycles to the parochial school, neighbors walk to the grocery store, and the iconic parish church stands as the community’s centerpiece. Across the street, Ave Maria University brings youthful energy and academic pursuit. With the Gulf Coast beaches to the west and the vibrant cities of Miami and Fort Lauderdale to the east, Ave Maria is as connected as it is serene.

This parish community’s hospitality extends far beyond its sanctuary walls. Ave Maria Parish has always warmly welcomed newcomers and long-time residents alike. Through its ministries, activities, and open invitations to explore parish life, Ave Maria continues to gather people seeking deeper communion with God and neighbor.

As we celebrate the contributions of the Ave Maria Parish Choir and the broader community they represent, we recognize a church alive with faith, service, and song. It is an honor to acknowledge their devotion and talent today, and I look forward to witnessing the continued impact they will have on the lives of countless more.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases/patronis-fights-to-protect-404-permitting,Patronis Fights to Protect 404 Permitting,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Jimmy Patronis,P000622,patronis.house.gov,patronis,https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Yesterday, Congressman Patronis spoke on the House Floor in support of H.R.3898, the Promoting Efficient Review for Modern Infrastructure Today (PERMIT) Act.

Image

Click here or above to watch the clip.

Congressman Patronis: “Mr. Chairman, I thank my friend, Aaron Bean, for introducing this amendment. Mr. Chairman, after working hard to obtain Federal approval in the first Trump administration, a weaponized court system pulled Florida’s 404 permitting out from under us, even though our program was thoroughly vetted and approved in 2020. Florida’s DEP has become a national model for environmental protection, and Washington should be learning from us, not tying our hands. The amendment makes it clear that once a State assumption program is approved, the EPA cannot withdraw it unless Congress explicitly says so—no more regulatory whiplash, no more political games. For Florida, this is critical. It protects our section 404 program, and it ends the uncertainty caused by conflicting court rulings and shifting in interpretations in Washington. Meanwhile, the Army Corps of Engineers got a gut punch with an overwhelming caseload while working hard to try to solve dozens of projects that an activist judge has placed on hold in our communities that they desperately need, like stormwater, schools, and even sewer treatment plants not under construction, protecting our most precious environments. But we can’t unless the permits can be issued. This is about predictability, federalism, and letting the States manage their own waterways. It is proinfrastructure, prodevelopment, but, most importantly, it is proenvironmental protection.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/salazar-provisions-pass-national-defense-bill-ndaa,SALAZAR PROVISIONS PASS IN NATIONAL DEFENSE BILL (NDAA),2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Maria Elvira Salazar,S000168,salazar.house.gov,salazar,https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Rep. María Elvira Salazar’s (FL-27) Western Hemisphere and State Department Political Affairs Authorization Act passed the House of Representatives as part of S.1071, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026.

Earlier this year, Rep. Salazar introduced H.R. 5246, a bill to codify, for the first time ever, the authorities of State Department’s Political Affairs Bureaus in the Western Hemisphere and other regions, including European and Eurasian Affairs, African Affairs, and East Asian and Pacific Affairs.

The bill also:

• Creates an Office of Haitian Affairs,

• Appoints new Ambassadors-at-Large for the strategically important Indian Ocean and Arctic regions, and

• Establishes a new unit to counter the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)

Authorizing these capabilities will ensure our State Department has the full mandate to achieve America’s foreign policy goals.

“I’m thankful that these critical State Department authorities to strengthen the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, combat Chinese and Russian influence, and appoint new Ambassadors to strategic regions, such as the Arctic, were included in our National Defense Policy,” said Chairwoman Salazar. “We are finally prioritizing our Hemisphere, and security in other strategic regions across the globe, which will help us fight tyranny across the world.”

In September 2025, Chairwoman Salazar led the effort to pass an amended version of H.R. 5246 out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee with unanimous support and ensure it was included in the broader State Department Reauthorization bill, H.R. 5300. Recognizing the importance of these provisions, House Leadership and the Armed Services Committee included them directly in Division E (Sections 5141-5162) of S.1071, the National Defense Authorization Act of 2026.

The National Defense Authorization Act authorizes $900 billion for U.S. national defense, includes a 3.8% pay raise for Miami’s service members, and improves housing, education, and access to childcare for military families.

With Rep. Salazar’s provisions included, S.1071 passed the House with strong bipartisan support on December 10, 2025, and was sent to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/rep-steube-and-sen-ernst-introduce-disposal-act/,Rep. Steube and Sen. Ernst Introduce DISPOSAL Act,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Rep. Steube and Sen. Ernst Introduce DISPOSAL Act

WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) and Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) introduced yesterday the Disposing of Inactive Structures and Properties by Offering for Sale And Lease Act or DISPOSAL Act. This bill would require the auction of unused and underutilized federal buildings.

“Americans deserve a government with maximum efficiency and minimal waste,” said Rep. Steube. “It makes zero sense that the federal government continues to sit on vacant and underutilized buildings. I am grateful to partner with Senator Ernst on the DISPOSAL Act that will auction off the bloat of unused government facilities back to the private sector.”

“Despite President Trump calling federal employees back to work, government buildings still remain vacant,” said Senator Ernst. “For too long, the entrenched bureaucracy has used red tape to prevent these ghost towns from being sold off. I’m glad Congressman Stuebe is leading my DISPOSAL Act in the House to immediately put six prime pieces of D.C. real estate on the auction block and slash through pointless regulations. By fast-tracking selling off the government’s graveyard of lifeless real estate, we can generate hundreds of millions of dollars and save taxpayers billions.”

Background: The DISPOSAL Act would require the sale of federal buildings with less than 60% utilization, with exceptions for structures that qualify under either section 501 of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act or the National Historic Preservation Act. It also would require the sale of six properties in Washington, D.C.: the Frances Perkins Federal Building, the James V. Forrestal Building, the Theodore Roosevelt Federal Building, the Robert C. Weaver Federal Building, the Department of Agriculture South Building, and the Hubert H. Humphrey Federal Building.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=EA8A6CA7-D27F-42C3-8692-F5861A20546F,Rep. Webster and Foushee Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Establish Space Resources Research Initiative,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,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, and Congresswoman Valeria Foushee D-NC, Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics, introduced H.R. 6638, the Space Resources Institute Act, bipartisan legislation which directs the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator and the Secretary of Commerce to report to Congress on the merits and feasibility of establishing a dedicated space resources institute relating to space resources, the surface materials, water, and metals often found on the Moon, Mars, and asteroids.

“As space continues to be a domain of economic and strategic competition, the ability to identify and utilize resources beyond Earth, such as the Moon, will shape the next generation of American leadership,” said Congressman Daniel Webster. “This bill examines how we can best support the development of space-based resources. It ensures that the United States – not China – sets the terms in this critical domain.""

“America’s leadership in space has long depended on our determination to push the boundaries of science and innovation,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee. “As we prepare for the next era of discovery––where astronauts will live and work farther from Earth for longer than ever before––understanding how to responsibly harness space resources will be vital to sustaining our presence and growing the space economy. The Space Resources Institute Act takes a smart, forward-looking approach to using resources beyond Earth. With this bill, we’re ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of space innovation and exploration for generations to come.”

The bipartisan Space Resources Institute Act will:

Strengthens U.S. Leadership in Space Innovation. The?Space Resources Institute Act?positions the United States to lead in the responsible and strategic use of extraterrestrial materials—such as lunar regolith, asteroid metals, and planetary water-ice—to sustain long-term human presence and economic activity in space.

Lays the Foundation for the Future Space Economy. The legislation calls on NASA and the Department of Commerce to assess the feasibility of a dedicated institute to coordinate research, technology development, and policy initiatives needed to advance in-space resource utilization (ISRU) as a cornerstone of America’s expanding space economy.

Ensures a Data-Driven, Responsible Approach. By requiring an interagency report to Congress, the bill ensures that decisions about establishing a space resources institute are guided by expert analysis and informed planning––fostering innovation while advancing U.S. competitiveness and international leadership in the next era of space exploration.

Once enacted, NASA will have 180 days to submit its interagency report to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

The full text of the bill can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/in-case-you-missed-it-sen-rick-scott-chair-august-pfluger-pen-op-ed-on-more-affordable-care-act-america-s-health-care-crisis-has-a-cure-will-congress-prescribe-it,"IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… Sen. Rick Scott, Chair August Pfluger Pen Op-Ed on More Affordable Care Act:  ‘America’s Health Care Crisis has a Cure. Will Congress Prescribe it?’",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, Senator Rick Scott and Republican Study Committee Chairman August Pfluger wrote an op-ed for the Washington Examiner exposing what millions of families already know firsthand: Obamacare has failed. After a decade of soaring premiums, shrinking networks, and broken promise after broken promise, Senator Scott and Chairman Pfluger are calling on Congress to stop patching a collapsing system and implement commonsense fixes to help American families. Their More Affordable Care Act delivers real reform Americans deserve by lowering costs, offering choices in their health care plans, and finally putting patients ahead of insurance companies and Washington bureaucracy.

In the op-ed, Senator Scott and Chairman Pfluger write, “Fifteen years ago, President Barack Obama stood before the people and made a promise: The Affordable Care Act would lower premiums and expand choice, and if you liked your plan and your doctor, you could keep them. Families believed him. They trusted that Washington would finally make healthcare more accessible and affordable.

Today, those same families know a different reality.

…

The promise was cheap. The reality is expensive. This crisis requires more than rhetoric; it requires action. We introduced the More Affordable Care Act to address the fundamental problems plaguing our healthcare system while preserving the protections upon which Americans depend.

…

Our approach is straightforward: stop treating families like statistics and start treating them like the capable decision-makers they are. Instead of funneling billions of taxpayer dollars through layers of bureaucracy to large insurance companies, redirect those resources into Trump Health Freedom Accounts, where individuals have control over their healthcare dollars. Families can use these funds to pay premiums or other healthcare expenses, while also having the flexibility to shop for insurance across state lines to compare multiple plans and choose coverage that truly meets their needs.

…

Rather than being forced to accept whatever narrow physician and hospital network Washington or an insurance company offers, families will have real, affordable options.

…

Our proposal provides the people with solutions to the core complaints Americans have about their healthcare: costs, choice, and transparency. It is a proposal that maintains the exchanges, protects coverage for preexisting conditions, and supports working people. At the same time, it radically transfers power away from Washington and into the hands of patients by allowing you to keep the money you earn, shop for the care that fits your needs, and know the true cost of the treatments you’re considering. This isn’t ideological warfare; it’s common sense.”

Read the full op-ed in the Washington Examiner HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-introduces-no-bounties-on-badges-act-to-combat-threats-against-law-enforcement,Sen. Rick Scott Introduces No Bounties on Badges Act to Combat Threats Against Law Enforcement,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott announced his No Bounties on Badges Act to authorize federal rewards for information leading to the arrest, conviction, or prevention of individuals who offer bounties to harm or kill law enforcement officers. This bill expands existing federal reward authority to explicitly cover attempts to intimidate or target police through paid incentives.

Senators Tedd Budd, Mike Lee, Pete Ricketts, John Kennedy, and Lindsey Graham are cosponsors.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Our men and women in law enforcement already face enormous risks, and anyone who puts a price on harming them should be held fully accountable. My No Bounties on Badges Act makes clear that the federal government will aggressively pursue anyone who offers bounties or financial incentives to target the men and women who protect our communities. By expanding reward authority, we’re giving investigators another tool to stop these violent acts before they happen. I will continue working to ensure our officers have the support, protection, and respect they deserve for putting their lives on the line protecting us all.”

Senator Ted Budd said, “Every day, our law enforcement officers answer the call to keep our communities safe. Any bounty placed on their heads is intolerable and will be confronted with the full force of the law. I am proud to stand with Senator Scott to empower the Attorney General to find these criminals and hold them accountable for threats to our police.”

Senator John Kennedy said, “Narco-terrorists and violent lunatics are offering cash rewards for the physical harm of American law enforcement officers. That’s despicable and cannot stand. The No Bounties on Badges Act would strengthen the good guys’ ability to identify, stop and prosecute sick monsters who put officers’ lives at risk.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-bean-amendment-protecting-florida-federal-overreach,House Passes Bean Amendment Protecting Florida from Federal Overreach,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Aaron Bean,B001314,bean.house.gov,bean,https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Today, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) released the following statement praising the House of Representatives’ passage of his amendment to codify Florida’s 404 Permitting Program, as part of H.R. 3898, the PERMIT Act.

Ahead of the vote, Congressman Bean spoke on the House floor in support of his amendment.

Congressman Bean said, “For too long, anyone trying to build anything in the free state of Florida has faced nothing but Washington bureaucracy. My amendment rightfully returns permitting to the state and allows Florida the flexibility to make the decisions that are best for us. State-run permitting programs reduce project costs and save taxpayer dollars, all while improving responsiveness to applicants and the communities’ projects they serve. I’m grateful to my colleagues for standing with me to demand accountability and make clear that any federal process must respect Florida’s right to manage its own resources responsibly.”

BACKGROUND

In 2018, Florida’s Legislature passed a bill that gave the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) authority to begin the public rulemaking process to better protect the state's wetlands and surface waters by assuming the federal dredge and fill permitting program under section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act within certain waters.

The State 404 Program is responsible for overseeing permitting for any project proposing dredge or fill activities within state-assumed waters.

On Feb. 15, 2024, a federal judge issued an order divesting the DEP of its authority to issue State 404 Program permits in Florida.

More than 1,000 State 404 permit applications were pending before DEP and are presently on hold. Beyond large-scale development projects, this decision directly impeded efforts to review and authorize a wide range of 404 permit applications that benefit the environment and the public.

A copy of Congressman Bean’s amendment can be found HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2025/12/u-s-house-passes-four-buchanan-defense-proposals,U.S. House Passes  Four Buchanan Defense Proposals,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“Together, These Measures Strengthen Our Forces and Reaffirm Our Commitment to the Men and Women in Uniform.”

Provisions Boost Readiness, Counter Adversaries and Protect Servicemembers

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan, Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, announced that four of his proposals were included in the final version of this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill now goes to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law.

“This year’s NDAA reflects President Trump’s ‘Peace Through Strength’ agenda by ensuring America’s military remains the most lethal, capable fighting force in the world,” said Buchanan. “I’m proud that several of my proposals, each focused on readiness, accountability and supporting our servicemembers, were included in the final package. Together, these measures strengthen our forces and reaffirm our commitment to the men and women in uniform.”

The four Buchanan proposals in the House-passed FY26 NDAA include:

The Protecting Animals in Military Training Act to end the use of animals in live-fire trauma training. The military will instead use advanced simulators, mannequins, cadavers or actors to prepare servicemembers for combat emergencies.

A provision expressing concern over the fact that China and other countries of concern are developing dual-use strategic technologies from U.S. capital, which is then benefiting adversaries’ military modernization efforts, surveillance states and human rights abuses. Buchanan’s provision calls on the president to use all necessary means to restrict certain U.S. outbound investments in these technologies in countries of concern.

A requirement for the Secretary of Defense to submit a report to Congress and make publicly available all detection and mitigation activities conducted to counter unmanned aircraft systems.

A requirement for the Secretary of Defense to list all critical defense infrastructure that relies on foreign materials or components and ways to replace the procurement and production of those materials (including gaps in manufacturing capabilities).

In January 2025, Buchanan had his Honoring Our Heroes with Dignity Act (H.R. 10301) and eight of his legislative proposals signed into law. These proposals, which enhanced military readiness and expanded health care options for servicemembers, were included in the final version of the FY25 NDAA.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405107,"Reps. Castor, Salazar Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Lower Flood Insurance Costs",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14) and Maria Salazar (FL-27) reintroduced the Continuous Coverage for Flood Insurance Act, which would lower costs by ensuring that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allows consumers to exercise their right to maintain flood insurance outside of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

“Families, homeowners and small businesses across Florida – including across the recovering Tampa Bay area – deserve real financial stability, peace of mind and clarity when it comes to flood insurance,” said Rep. Kathy Castor. “Our bipartisan legislation empowers consumers with more options by allowing access to private flood insurance, without penalty. For coastal communities like Tampa Bay, healthy competition can lower costs, expand the insurance pool and help bring down flood insurance rates. I’m pleased to work with my fellow Floridian, Rep. Maria Salazar, to ease cost burdens on hardworking Floridians and expand consumer choice in continuous flood insurance coverage.”

""Now more than ever, Miami residents and Americans nationwide deserve real choice and affordable coverage in the flood-insurance market,"" said Rep. Maria Salazar. ""By opening the door to greater private-sector involvement, the Continuous Coverage for Flood Insurance Act will lower the burden on U.S. taxpayers and provide stronger, more reliable protection.”

View the full text of the legislation here.

In 2012, Congress enacted the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act to reform the NFIP. Among other reforms, the Biggert-Waters Act required federal lending institutions to accept certain non-NFIP insurance policies, reinforcing the fact that other non-NFIP insurance policies can be used to satisfy the NFIP’s mandatory purchase requirement. As a result of this law, in February 2019, a final rule was issued regarding the acceptance of non-NFIP insurance, which took effect on July 1, 2019.

Many consumers are unable to take advantage of these potentially beneficial and cost-effective non-NFIP insurance policies. Currently, the NFIP requires continuous coverage to be eligible for grandfathered rates, but only counts the time in an NFIP policy. If a policyholder chooses to leave the program and return later, the NFIP will charge the full, non-grandfathered rate – even if the policyholder decides to obtain a non-NFIP insurance policy that complies with the new rule. The prospect of higher insurance rates is not only a deterrent to the marketplace but also a barrier to more affordable flood insurance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1822,Franklin Commends USDA Decision To Provide $1 Billion In Bridge Support For Specialty Crops,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18) commended the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s announcement that $1 billion in bridge support will be dedicated to specialty crop producers, a top request he recently led in a bipartisan letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.

“Florida’s specialty crop growers help feed America and support jobs across our state,” said Congressman Franklin. “Our delegation made it clear specialty crops must be part of this assistance and I’m pleased the Trump Administration answered that call. This $1 billion commitment will help our farmers stay competitive, recover from storm losses and keep doing what they do best. When Florida agriculture is strong, our whole state benefits. This is a big win for the growers who make that possible.”

Florida is a national leader in specialty crop input costs, contributing billions to the state’s economy each year. Rising production costs, recurring hurricane damage and invasive plant diseases have created ongoing challenges for producers across the state.

In October, Congressman Franklin led a bipartisan Florida delegation letter with Congresswoman Kat Cammack (FL-03) urging USDA to prioritize specialty crop producers in this assistance. They cited rising labor, fuel and fertilizer costs, invasive plant diseases and shifting foreign markets as major pressures on Florida growers and emphasized the need for support for specialty crop producers. Their letter underscored that family farms growing fruits, vegetables and nursery products are vital to both Florida’s economy and the nation’s food supply.

USDA is expected to announce additional program details, including eligibility and payment timelines, in the coming weeks.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-wasserman-schultz-celebrate-25-years-restoring-americas,"Díaz-Balart, Wasserman Schultz Celebrate 25 years of Restoring America’s Everglades through CERP",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"December 11, 2025

WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL-26), joined fellow Congressional Everglades Caucus Co-Chair, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25), in releasing the following statement celebrating the 25thanniversary of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP):

“Twenty-five years ago, the State of Florida and the U.S. Congress, through the leadership and collaboration of Congressman Díaz-Balart and the late Congressman Alcee Hastings, co-founded and launched the most significant environmental restoration project in U.S. history: an ambitious, long-term bipartisan effort to repair and revive America’s Everglades, a national treasure and true ecological wonder. Today, that commitment remains strong under the continued leadership of Reps. Díaz-Balart and Wasserman Schultz as co-chairs of the Everglades Caucus.

Since then, the bipartisan Caucus has worked tirelessly to deliver the authorizations and critical funding needed to restore and preserve this unique ecosystem on which more than nine million Floridians rely. Whether ensuring clean, safe drinking water; protecting our endangered species and habitats; or honoring our commitments to Florida’s Tribal Nations, the preservation of America’s Everglades remains essential for our communities today and for generations to come.”

Background

In 2000, the U.S. government and the State of Florida embarked on the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP), the largest environmental restoration effort in history to repair and revive the ecosystem.

In November 2007, Congress overrode a President George W. Bush veto and passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2007, authorizing $1.8 billion in Everglades restoration funding and reaffirming congressional support for Everglades restoration.

Founded in 2006, the Everglades Caucus is a bipartisan group whose mission is to advance legislation that provides long-term funding for Everglades-related projects that ensure restoration and preservation of this unique ecosystem.

As we commemorate 25 years of CERP, below are key milestones that have broken ground or reached completion:

Major CERP Milestones

Picayune Strand – 2011

Congress authorized the Picayune Strand Restoration Project in 2007 as part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP).

The South Florida Water Management District expedited construction by filling in and plugging seven miles of the Prairie Canal and completing approximately 25 percent of the road removal.

When complete, the Picayune Strand Restoration Project will restore natural water flows over an 85-square-mile area.

The project will improve the area’s hydrology, allow for the return of more balanced plant communities, increase aquifer recharge, and send fresh water in a more natural manner to the coastal estuaries.

C-111 Spreader Canal Western Project - 2013

First project to be completed under CERP.

In 2004, Diaz-Balart authored H.R. 3785, which authorized the land swap between the State of Florida and Everglades National Park to construct the canal.

The purpose of the canal is to restore freshwater flows to Florida Bay through Taylor Slough and to preserve clean water for Everglades National Park, and maintain flood controls for eastern communities. H.R. 3785 was signed into law later that year.

Tamiami Trail Bridge – 2013 & 2019

Restored natural water flows through the Everglades ecosystem by eliminating one mile of the 10.7-mile-long barrier that the Tamiami roadway presents to water flow south into Everglades National Park.

Increased water volume and flow under the bridge will help re-establish seasonal water depths and flooding durations that are critical to the survival of many fish and wildlife species, and stem saltwater intrusion into the Everglades south of Tamiami Trail.

Merrit Pump Station – 2014

A key component of the Picayune Strand Restoration Project.

The Merritt Pump Station is the first major construction contract to be completed under CERP.

Herbert Hoover Dike Rehabilitation Project – 2023

Diaz-Balart played a vital role over the years in securing the authorization, funding, and consistent oversight to expedite the rehabilitation of the Herbert Hoover Dike.

The Dike is vital to communities surrounding Lake Okeechobee and to the regional local ecosystem, and expediting its completion has been the number one priority for counties throughout Southern Florida.

The rehabilitation project was completed in January 2023.

Stormwater Treatment Cell 1 in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir – 2024

The EEA Reservoir Project includes an above-ground water storage reservoir, a constructed wetland (STA) to improve water quality, and capacity improvements to local canals.

Located between Lake Okeechobee and the Everglades, the EAA Reservoir Project will also help recreate the historic flow of water south to recharge our aquifers, nourish the Everglades, and support the health of Florida Bay.

Caloosahatchee (C-43) Reservoir Completion - July 2025

Caloosahatchee (C-43) Reservoir is a 10,000-acre reservoir that will improve water quality, protect coastal ecosystems, and expand Florida’s water storage capacity.

The C-43 Reservoir pump station, capable of moving 650,000 gallons per minute, is now fully operational.

Diaz-Balart played a vital role in 2014 in securing the authorization of the C-43 Reservoir through the passage of H.R. 3080, the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014.

Diaz-Balart, as Vice-Chairman of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, has continued to secure billions of federal dollars for Everglades Restoration, and continues to reiterate to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers the urgency of expediting completion, transparency, and remaining cost-effective while restoring and preserving America’s Everglades.

EAA Reservoir Project Expedition – August 2025

The EEA Reservoir Project includes an above-ground water storage reservoir, a constructed wetland known as an STA to improve water quality, and capacity improvements to local canals.

Diaz-Balart played an instrumental role in 2018 to secure the authorization of the EAA Reservoir with the passage of S.3021, America’s Water and Infrastructure Act of 2018.

As a senior Appropriations Member, Diaz-Balart:

secured $67.5M for South Florida Ecosystem Restoration in the FY2019 Energy & Water Appropriation bill, which includes critical federal dollars for the EAA Reservoir.

included $461M for Everglades Restoration in the FY2026 Committee-passed Energy & Water Appropriations bill.

State of Florida – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ MOU will:

Accelerate the EAA Reservoir’s construction timeline by fiveyears, from 2034 to 2029.

Store over 78 billion gallons of water.

Deliver 270–470 billion gallons of clean water annually to the Everglades and Biscayne Aquifer, aiding freshwater inflows to Florida Bay.

The State of Florida will handle the construction of inflow and outflow pump stations and work on the Blue Shanty Flow Way, while the Army Corps maintains oversight of the main reservoir.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-patronis-issues-a-statement-on-three-plane-crashes-in-florida,Congressman Patronis Issues a Statement on Three Plane Crashes in Florida,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Jimmy Patronis,P000622,patronis.house.gov,patronis,https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Patronis issues a statement regarding three separate plane crashes that happened this week in Florida. These crashes are currently under investigation.

Two separate single-engine aircraft made emergency landings on local roads in the Orlando area due to engine failures. Another crash involving a small plane in Pensacola is also under investigation. All three incidents resulted in no fatalities.

Despite these incidents, general aviation accident rates fell by 11% over the past year and are now at their lowest level in decades. Aviation remains the safest mode of transportation.

“As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I am working with the Department of Transportation and the National Transportation Safety Board to understand these crashes,” said Congressman Patronis. “I am glad that no one was killed; this could have been a total disaster. I am dedicated to getting to the bottom of these.”

For more information, click HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases/patronis-backs-legislation-on-404-permitting-reforms,Patronis Backs Legislation on 404 Permitting Reforms,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Jimmy Patronis,P000622,patronis.house.gov,patronis,https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Patronis voted with his House colleagues to support the passage of H.R.3898. The Promoting Efficient Review for Modern Infrastructure Today (PERMIT) Act, is a package of commonsense reform to permitting processes under the Clean Water Act (CWA) that cut red tape, reduce costly project delays and unnecessary litigation, and provide certainty to our nation’s infrastructure builders, farmers, water utilities, and small businesses.

“I am honored to support the passage of the PERMIT Act that will streamline 404 permitting, while ensuring the environment is protected,” said Congressman Patronis. We must keep the government out of our backyards and restore power to the states.”

Full bill text here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://steube.house.gov/press-releases/steube-barrasso-taxpayer-privacy-bill-advances-out-of-ways-and-means-committee/,"Steube, Barrasso Taxpayer Privacy Bill Advances Out of Ways and Means Committee",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,W. Gregory Steube,S001214,steube.house.gov,steube,https://steube.house.gov/category/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Steube, Barrasso Taxpayer Privacy Bill Advances Out of Ways and Means Committee

Watch Representative Steube’s Remarks Here

WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) announced that the Taxpayer Notification and Privacy Act, introduced with Senator John Barrasso, has advanced out of the Ways and Means Committee. Rep. Steube’s bill, which would address inadequacies with federal laws requiring the IRS to provide notice to taxpayers of third-party contacts, was approved unanimously by the Committee in a vote of 41-0.

“This legislation is about building a healthier relationship between taxpayers and their government, one that respects privacy and due process while still ensuring the IRS can do its job,” said Rep. Steube in his remarks. “For law-abiding Americans, compliance is already complicated enough. The least we can do is ensure that when the IRS intends to go outside the taxpayer to gather information the taxpayer can provide, the taxpayer gets clarity—what exactly is being sought—and a fair chance to respond.”

“I want to thank Representative Steube for his leadership in advancing our bipartisan Taxpayer Notification and Privacy Act through the Ways and Means Committee,” said Senator Barrasso. “This bill will safeguard the rights of hardworking Americans and small businesses by preventing the IRS from going behind their backs to solicit personal financial information.”

“Fairness is the cornerstone principle of tax administration,” said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-Miss.). “When the IRS contacts third parties seeking information, taxpayers have the right to know what the government is looking for and deserve a fair chance to respond first. Thanks to Representative Steube’s leadership, the Taxpayer Notification and Privacy Act will rein in the IRS from contacting those close to a taxpayer and first allow citizens the first opportunity to resolve questions from the IRS without risking reputational harm.”

Joining Rep. Steube as a co-lead on the Taxpayer Notification and Privacy Act is Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.). The bill also has the support of the National Taxpayers Union.

Background: While current law requires the IRS provide taxpayers advance notice before contacting third parties (banks, employers, customers, etc.), the federal government has failed to provide sufficient notice to the respective individuals concerning the nature of the information being sought from said third parties. The Taxpayer Notification and Privacy Act would ensure the IRS identify each specific item of information it intends to seek in its third party contact notice to the taxpayer. It would also require the IRS provide said individual a reasonable amount of time to review and respond to the third party contact notice before the agency can proceed.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-backs-bill-for-balanced-budget-constitutional-amendment,Sen. Rick Scott Backs Bill for Balanced Budget Constitutional Amendment,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott announced his sponsorship of Senator Jon Husted’s Principles-Based Balanced Budget Amendment, which would amend the Constitution to require the federal government to balance its budget, just like every American family and business has to do. Once implemented, the amendment would require a supermajority in Congress to authorize any emergency spending that exceeds the nation’s revenues.

As Governor of Florida, Senator Scott implemented policies and made the hard choices that turned Florida’s debt and large budget deficit into a balanced budget, while also cutting taxes, paying off one-third of the state’s debt, and making record investments in education, transportation, and the environment.

Senator Rick Scott said, “In the past five years alone, our nation has added $11 TRILLION to our now $38 TRILLION national debt and fueled inflation for the American people because Washington just can’t stop spending outside of its means. Democrats spent our nation into oblivion for years, making $2 trillion deficits and spending like drunken sailors the norm in Washington, all with zero consideration for the American people left footing the bill. A balanced budget is only a foreign concept in Washington. Families across our nation don’t have the luxury of spending money they don’t have; neither do businesses, and neither should our government. I’ve worked for years to rein in this wasteful spending and do what we did in Florida: go through the budget line-by-line and make sure every single dollar spent makes sense for the American people. But, clearly, we have to do more to bring fiscal sanity and change Washington’s dysfunction. Our constitutional amendment will force accountability on Washington politicians, making sure Congress is using your dollars in your best interests and spending within our means.”

This legislation builds on Senator Rick Scott’s Make Washington Work plan to end the tired, dysfunctional status quo in Washington and ensure the U.S. government works in the best interests of American families. This includes:

The No Budget, No Pay Act prohibits Members of Congress from being paid in a fiscal year until both chambers approve the budget resolution and pass all regular appropriations bills for that fiscal year. Funding the government is a basic job of Congress, and this bill holds members accountable for meeting appropriations deadlines or forgo their taxpayer-funded salaries until the job is done.

Constitutional Amendments to provide the President line-item veto power, establish term limits for Members of Congress, and require a supermajority to raise taxes or fees on the American people. This joint resolution proposes constitutional amendments that bring much-needed reform to the federal government, prioritizing return on investment for American tax dollars and ensuring Washington is working in the best interests of American families.

Repealing automatic pay raises for Members of Congress; and

His Let’s Get to Work Act encourages every individual who can work to do so, which will help our nation’s economy thrive.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-joins-sens-ashley-moody-marsha-blackburn-with-halo-act-to-establish-penalties-for-obstructing-immigration-enforcement-officers,"Sen. Rick Scott Joins. Sens. Ashley Moody, Marsha Blackburn with Halo Act to Establish Penalties for Obstructing Immigration Enforcement Officers",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Ashley Moody and Marsha Blackburn to introduce the Halo Act to establish criminal penalties for anyone who obstructs, threatens, or harasses federal immigration enforcement officers carrying out their jobs. The Halo Act enhances officer safety and strengthens the enforcement of federal immigration law to protect American citizens.

Senator Rick Scott said, “No member of our law enforcement should fear harassment or intimidation while doing their job of upholding the law. Our Halo Act ensures they can do their jobs without interference or threats, especially at a time when these dangers are rapidly increasing. I’m proud to join Senator Moody on this commonsense measure to protect those who selflessly protect our nation. We owe these men and women not only our gratitude, but also every possible safeguard as they put themselves in harm’s way to keep our communities and our borders secure.”

Senator Ashley Moody said, “As Florida’s Attorney General, I helped make Florida the most pro-law enforcement state in the nation—I’m now taking that fight to D.C. The recent incidents of federal officers being harassed or targeted while simply carrying out their responsibilities are alarming and cannot be tolerated. No one serving this nation should be intimidated or obstructed from doing their job. That’s why I’m so glad my Halo Act is gaining support, with more of my colleagues signing as cosponsors and saying ‘No more.’ Protecting our officers from threats is not optional—it is essential to the rule of law.”

Senator Marsha Blackburn said, “Assaults and violence against ICE officers have surged by more than 1,150% compared to last year, and left-wing activists across the country will do anything to keep these men and women from enforcing the rule of law. The Halo Act would make it illegal to physically harass and intimidate a federal immigration officer and prevent radical activists from interfering with law enforcement’s work to keep our communities safe.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/what-they-are-saying-sen-rick-scott-s-more-affordable-care-act-praised-for-putting-patients-first-driving-down-costs,WHAT THEY ARE SAYING… Sen. Rick Scott’s More Affordable Care Act Praised for Putting Patients First & Driving Down Costs,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott highlighted the increasingly broad support for his and Chairman August Pfluger’s More Affordable Care Act, to fix Obamacare and drive down health care costs for American families. The More Affordable Care Act makes common sense fixes to help families get care that fits their needs, ensures any support goes directly to Americans, and not insurance companies, through HSA-style Trump Health Freedom Accounts that put health care decisions back in the hands of patients and allows them to apply funds directly to premiums, encourages competition, and instills transparency to empower families to make their own decisions.

Read more on Senator Scott’s More Affordable Care Act HERE or from industry leaders below:

Economic Policy Innovation Center’s Executive Vice President Brittany Madni said, “Senator Rick Scott and Chairman August Pfluger’s More Affordable Care Act is exactly the sort of pro-freedom healthcare leadership that is needed to drive down costs for both patients and taxpayers. This fiscally responsible legislation stops Obamacare from doing more damage and handing over billions from the Treasury directly to Big Insurance through the subsidy scheme. It opens up competition in the market, gives patients options, and institutes commonsense reforms to safeguard taxpayer dollars. Ultimately, through the creation of the Trump Health Freedom Accounts and transparency measures, the More Affordable Care Act improves access to quality healthcare.”

The Foundation for Government Accountability’s President and Chief Executive Officer Tarren Bragdon said, “Obamacare has failed American families…for years, conservatives have talked about expanding choice, increasing transparency, and supporting the needs of individuals instead of insurers. This bill accomplishes those goals…Senator Scott’s bill offers a free-market alternative that will finally put patients first and start to drive down the cost of coverage for Americans struggling with the rising cost of health care.”

Dr. Monique Yohanan, senior fellow for health policy at Independent Women wrote in an op-ed for The Hill, “The proposal expands portability so that insurance becomes something people own rather than something assigned to them…Portability restores the American expectation that opportunity requires the freedom to move. It treats insurance the way we treat every other essential product: something individuals choose, not something contingent on employment or geography…Transparency exposes prices and portability gives consumers the ability to act…Portability expands choices and transparency ensures those choices are informed…Information without choice is powerless. Choice without information is meaningless.”

President Joel White of The Council for Affordable Health Coverage (CAHC) endorsed the legislation saying, “ACA premiums have more than doubled – rising 129 percent – since the law took effect, far outpacing employer-sponsored coverage, and the general rate of inflation…small businesses now face some of the highest premiums and the fewest insurance options in the entire system…The combination of remarkably high deductibles and highly restrictive networks means many ACA enrollees lack access to care they need to get or stay healthy. The problem is not simply that families pay too much – it is that they are paying more for less. CAHC shares your commitment to drive down costs, expand coverage options and transparency, and empower customers and small businesses with control over their health care dollars…We welcome the opportunity to work with you to help ensure this legislation advances through Congress.”

Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform celebrated the legislation saying, “Healthcare costs are rising because Obamacare continues to fail. Under Obama and Biden’s system, Americans have seen their premiums skyrocket, a loathsome decline in their health care options, and shameless handouts to big insurance providers. Democrats now want to bail out Obamacare by extending the enhanced premium tax subsidies they swore were temporary policy to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Thankfully, Senator Rick Scott and Representative August Pfluger introduced the More Affordable Care Act, a bill that would establish Trump Health Freedom Accounts, offer Americans more plan options, allow Americans to shop across state lines for coverage, increase transparency in the ACA Marketplace, and enhance the Small Business Tax Credit to encourage employer-sponsored coverage. Sen. Scott and Rep. Pfluger's bill contains conservative reforms that actually reduce the costs of healthcare. No Republican should support extending the enhanced premium tax subsidies. I urge Congress to pass the More Affordable Care Act.”

Americans for Prosperity’s Senior Health Policy Fellow Dean Clancy stated, “Instead of funding big insurance, this bill funds patients. Instead of empowering bureaucrats, it empowers you and the doctors you trust. Our activists will be working hard to advance this legislation because it advances a personal option: reliable, hassle/free health care you can afford.”

Health Care expert and Chief Executive Officer of Direct Care Alliance David Balat recently commented, “This puts the power back into the back into the hands of patients. Where they are now shopping for insurance plans. It will drive up competition. What happens when competition increases? Prices go down.”

Read more on Senator Scott’s More Affordable Care Act HERE or in his Fox News op-ed HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bean-supports-ndaa-passage-secures-wins-troops,"Congressman Bean Supports NDAA Passage, Secures Wins for Troops",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Aaron Bean,B001314,bean.house.gov,bean,https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Today, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) issued the following statement after the House passed the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), advancing key national security provisions to strengthen America’s defense and securing critical wins for service members and their families.

Congressman Bean said, “I believe in peace through strength, and a strong, well‑equipped military is essential to that strategy. While the bill is not perfect, this year’s NDAA safeguards America’s future, supports our warfighters, and secures our national defense. It invests in cutting‑edge technologies, reinforces nuclear deterrence, secures our southern border, and boosts readiness against growing threats. Congress puts warfighters ahead of politics, delivers a 3.8% pay raise for service members, and saves taxpayers over $20 billion through cost‑cutting measures led by DOGE. With its passage, we are ensuring our military remains unrivaled worldwide, while supporting the service members and families who protect our freedoms.”

BACKGROUND

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is legislation that Congress passes each year to make changes to the policies and organization of the U.S. Department of War and allocates defense funding.

The FY26 NDAA includes a bold, comprehensive blueprint for American defense, including:

Advancing President Trump’s Peace Through Strength agenda

Enhancing quality of life for our service members and their families

Deterring Chinese aggression and strategic threats

Reinforcing the principle that border security is national security

Reforming acquisitions to maximize efficiency and accountability

Building ready, capable, fighting forces

Implementing meaningful budget reforms across the Pentagon

Investing in innovation and next-generation technologies

Defending key allies like Israel

Countering adversaries around the globe

Restoring the warrior ethos across our ranks

Strengthening strategic deterrence, missile defense, and space-based capabilities.

View a bill summary HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases/cammack-secures-key-legislation-strengthen-national-guard-readiness-fy26-ndaa,Cammack Secures Key Legislation to Strengthen National Guard Readiness in FY26 NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Kat Cammack,C001039,cammack.house.gov,cammack,https://cammack.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Kat Cammack (FL-03) released the following statement after House passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), landmark legislation that advances President Trump’s Peace Through Strength agenda and delivers critical support to America’s warfighters, military families, and defense industrial base. The legislation includes Congresswoman Cammack’s amendment to ensure National Guard units have the equipment they need to execute homeland defense missions.

“From strengthening deterrence to rebuilding our industrial base, the FY26 NDAA restores America’s military advantage and ensures our servicemembers have the tools, training, and support they deserve,” said Congresswoman Cammack. “America relies on the National Guard every single day—whether in natural disaster response or homeland defense. They cannot do their jobs without the right equipment, and this provision gives Congress the transparency needed to address these shortfalls and ensure our Guard is fully prepared to meet any mission.”

The FY26 NDAA fulfills several major priorities:

Implementing Peace Through Strength: Reinforces President Trump’s strategy of deterring conflict by maintaining overwhelming U.S. military superiority; strengthens nuclear capabilities, expands missile defense, and invests in countering threats from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

Transforming Defense Acquisition: Cuts red tape, streamlines procurement, and accelerates delivery timelines so warfighters receive the capabilities they need when and where they need them.

Improving Quality of Life for Servicemembers: Supports the Administration’s 3.8% pay raise and enhances military housing, education benefits, and childcare access to improve recruitment and retention.

Accelerating Innovation: Prioritizes cutting-edge technologies—hypersonics, AI-enabled systems, autonomous platforms—to ensure the U.S. maintains a decisive technological edge in future conflicts.

Revitalizing the Defense Industrial Base: Expands U.S. production capacity, provides stability for contractors, and encourages new and innovative entrants into the defense marketplace to strengthen economic and national security.

Congresswoman Cammack’s provision strengthens oversight of the National Guard’s ability to conduct homeland defense missions and response to natural disasters.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405102,"Reps. Castor, Bacon, Schrier Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat HPV-Associated Cancers",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Reps. Kathy Castor (D-FL), Don Bacon (R-NE) and Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-WA) reintroduced the bipartisan Promoting Resources to Expand Vaccination, Education and New Treatments for HPV Cancers Act (“PREVENT HPV Cancers Act”) to prevent cancer and save lives by raising awareness about HPV and HPV-associated cancers through a national education campaign for health care providers, parents, and the public on the life-saving HPV immunization. The bill also would strengthen efforts to expand access to timely cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services for uninsured and underserved individuals.

“HPV immunization can prevent six types of cancer, and boosting immunization rates and raising public awareness can save tens of thousands of lives from preventable cancer deaths each year,” said Rep. Castor. “I’m proud to reintroduce the bipartisan PREVENT HPV Cancers Act with Reps. Bacon and Schrier to ensure Americans across the country have the information and access they need to protect themselves from HPV and HPV-associated cancers through immunizations and cancer screenings. I’m grateful to my friends back home at the Moffitt Cancer Center for bringing health experts and advocates together around the shared goal of eliminating HPV-associated cancers once and for all.”

“As someone who lost their sister to breast cancer, and have known other women affected by HPV cancers, I can’t stress more the need for education, awareness and testing to lower the rates of these cancers,” said Rep. Bacon. “The loss for family and friends as they lose someone affected is devastating, and many times early detection may have prevented that loss. This bill will help spread the word and make sure more patients can be tested early. I am thankful to have been asked by Rep. Castor to join this bill.""

“As a pediatrician, I know that immunizations are one of our best tools for helping kids stay healthy,” said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “They are safe and effective, and they work best when there is widespread use. This bill will help spread awareness about the HPV vaccine, and I’m happy to co-lead it with my friend and colleague Representative Castor. The more people who know about this cancer-preventing shot, the more people we can protect from preventable cancers.”

Full text of the legislation is available here.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes six types of cancers, leading to approximately 39,000 cases of cancer each year in the United States, including cervical, anal, vaginal, vulvar, penile, and oropharynx cancers. Unfortunately, uptake rates are much lower than for other immunizations, with only 63% of adolescents aged 13-17 up to date with their HPV immunization.

119th Endorsing Organizations: Alliance for Childhood Cancer; American Academy of Pediatrics; American Association for Cancer Research; American Association of Nurse Practitioners; American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; American Dental Association; Anal Cancer Foundation; Association for Clinical Oncology; Association of American Cancer Institutes; Alliance for Women’s Health and Prevention; Cervivor, Inc.; Children’s Hospital Association; City of Hope; Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Florida Association of Community Health Centers; Friends of Cancer Research; Global Initiative Against HPV and Cervical Cancer; Head and Neck Cancer Alliance; HealthyWoman; Healthy Men Inc.; HPVANDME; HPV Cancers Alliance; Immunize Colorado; MA HPV Coalition; March of Dimes; Moffitt Cancer Center; National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners; National Comprehensive Cancer Network; National Consumers League; National League for Nursing; Oncology Nursing Society; Oregon HPV Prevention Alliance; Prevent Cancer Foundation; Society for Gynecologic Oncology; Team Maureen; The Susan Jolley Foundation; TogetHER for Health; Vaccinate Your Family; VAX 2 STOP CANCER.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://castor.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=405104,"Castor Votes for Pay Raise for Service Members, Families & Investments in MacDill AFB",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Kathy Castor,C001066,castor.house.gov,castor,https://castor.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement upon passage of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“I am proud to support the FY2026 NDAA, which delivers a hard-earned pay raise for military service members and their families while improving their quality of life and safeguarding America’s national security.

“I am particularly proud to have championed parts of the defense bill that benefit the service members and families at MacDill Air Force Base, including pay raises and critical improvements to on-base housing and infrastructure, health care and childcare. The bill includes $74 million to support the construction of new KC-46 aircraft hangars and maintenance facilities.

“To address the high cost of living, I am proud to have fought for and helped secure a 3.8 percent pay raise for all service members. This well-earned pay raise will provide meaningful relief to service members and their families.

“This year’s NDAA also includes important provisions intended to address mold issues plaguing base housing, including in privatized housing at MacDill AFB. The new provision strengthens mold reporting requirements, standardizes remediation guidelines across the military, and requires routine inspections of privatized and government-owned military housing by an independent, qualified home inspector.

“Education and childcare are also fundamental for our military families and their children. This year’s NDAA authorizes $50 million to support local school districts that serve military-dependent students and additional funding for the construction of child development centers.

“Service members and their families deserve reliable access to high-quality health care. That’s why I’m thankful that the NDAA fully funds military medical treatment facilities and includes stricter requirements for downsizing or closing facilities, like Tampa’s Sabal Park Clinic.

“After decades of the executive branch taking advantage of two broad Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMF), the FY2026 NDAA finally repeals the 1991 and 2002 AUMFs against Iraq, re-establishing the Constitutionally prescribed role of Congress in the use of military forces.

“Congressional Democrats also successfully opposed numerous policy riders and poison pills targeting LGBTQ+ service members.

""Tampa Bay is a vibrant hub for defense-sector companies and entrepreneurs. To continue strengthening business and relationships with these key partners, this year's NDAA delivers the most substantive reforms in decades to address the defense acquisition process. These updates will ensure both regulatory requirements and efficiency are met, while bolstering our nation's industrial base and commercial innovation, as well as the workforce that delivers them.

""Importantly, the NDAA includes provisions to ensure that the Trump Administration does not walk away from our partners and allies like Ukraine, and to provide oversight and accountability measures to restrain illegal actions by the Trump Administration, including strikes that have occurred in Venezuela and the Caribbean, removal of general officers, and the use of military aircraft, personnel, and installations for immigration enforcement.""

Supporting Military Service Members and their Families:

3.8% pay raise for all service members

Increased investments in child development centers

Increased investments in base housing

Increase to the Family Separation Allowance (FSA)

Military Housing:

Provides funds to keep DoD facilities in good working order and reduce the maintenance backlog

Strengthens military housing by creating new reporting requirements, establishing standardized remediation of mold across military branches and requiring inspections of privatized and government-owned military housing by an independent, qualified home inspector

Health Care:

Establishes additional requirements that changes to military medical treatment have no effect on operations at treatment facilities for service members and their families

The FY2026 NDAA Conference Report passed by a margin of 312-112 in the House. The bill now heads to the U.S. Senate.

U.S. Rep. Castor is a member of the powerful U.S. House Energy & Commerce Committee and previously served on the U.S. House Armed Services Committee and as Chair of the former U.S. House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis. Her district includes MacDill Air Force Base and is home to U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), two of the Armed Forces’ most important military commands. MacDill Air Force Base’s 6th Air Refueling Wing is the centerpiece of the U.S. Air Force’s Global Vigilance, Global Reach, Global Power mission, with its essential aerial refueling function. The base’s mission is vital to keeping America safe and ready for any contingencies we may face as a nation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1821,Franklin Applauds House Passage Of FY26 NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Scott Franklin,F000472,franklin.house.gov,franklin,https://franklin.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18) issued the following statement after House passage of the FY26 NDAA:

“As a career Naval Aviator who served 26 years in uniform, I know a strong America is a safe America. We don’t preserve peace by hoping for the best, but by ensuring our adversaries never doubt our resolve. The FY26 NDAA invests in the tools, training and technologies our warfighters need to remain the most capable force on Earth.”

“This bill delivers a well-deserved pay raise for our troops, strengthens support for military families and accelerates innovation so our forces stay ahead of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea. It enhances readiness while revitalizing American shipbuilding and defense manufacturing to reduce dependence on foreign supply chains.”

“At the same time, we remain responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. Defending our nation is too important for anything less than smart, strategic investment that strengthens deterrence, preserves overmatch and sustains our long-term military advantage.”

“With this NDAA, America remains the world’s premier fighting force.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/case-you-missed-it-rep-mario-diaz-balart-newsweek-cubas-terror-network,IN CASE YOU MISSED IT...  Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart in Newsweek:  Cuba's Terror Network and Its Role in Russia's War,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Mario Diaz-Balart,D000600,mariodiazbalart.house.gov,mariodiazbalart,https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26) co-authored an op-ed alongside Markus Wiechel, a member of the Swedish Parliament, on the Cuban regime's long history of supporting terrorist groups and adversaries, including its active role today in one of the most urgent security threats: Russia's war against Ukraine.

Since 2022, thousands of Cuban nationals have been deployed as mercenaries for Putin. This scale of involvement is not possible without the Cuban regime’s approval and fits a decades-long pattern: harboring U.S. fugitives, aiding the FARC and ELN, propping up Venezuela’s dictatorship, collaborating with Iran and North Korea, and running cyber and disinformation operations across the hemisphere.

Newsweek

Op-ed: Markus Wiechel and Mario Díaz-Balart

December 10, 2025

Read the full op-ed below or here:

In Cuba, where vibrant streets hide daily struggles, the government silences its people and spreads trouble worldwide. For over 60 years, since the revolution, the regime has crushed free speech at home and backed violent groups abroad. There’s clear evidence that Cuba supports terrorism, yet many countries hesitate to act. Calling Cuba a ""state sponsor of terrorism"" isn’t just a label—it’s a vital step to stop their dangerous actions and protect democracies everywhere.

The proof is undeniable. Since the 1960s, the Cuban dictatorship has supplied weapons, training and safe hideouts to rebel groups causing chaos in Latin America. Groups like the FARC and ELN in Colombia—labeled terrorists by the U.S. and Europe—have relied on Cuban communist support for years. The Cuban regime has hosted talks for one of these groups, but not as an honest broker—they shielded leaders even after a 2019 bomb attack in Bogotá that killed 22 people and injured over 60. Cuban communist agents even work inside Venezuela’s government, propping up its dictatorship and creating a hub for criminals.

The Cuban regime’s actions go further. They shelter U.S. fugitives wanted for serious crimes by letting these criminals live freely in Cuba, encouraging violence that stretches from U.S. cities to Colombia’s mountains.

The dictatorship also runs online attacks, spreads false information, and works with countries like Iran and North Korea, making threats worse by mixing terror with economic pressure.

The communist regime’s role in Russia’s war against Ukraine makes things even clearer. Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, thousands of Cubans have been sent to fight for Russia as mercenaries. Some estimates say that the number of Cuban fighters within Russian ranks could be as high as 20,000.

The Cuban dictatorship denies involvement, but experts say this couldn’t happen without the government’s approval. By supporting Russia’s attacks—bombing Ukrainian schools and hospitals—Cuba is fueling a war that’s a form of state-backed terror, hurting innocent people far away.

The U.S. recognized this threat and returned Cuba to the terrorism sponsor list, citing its meddling in Venezuela and beyond. It is now time for the rest of the free world to speak the truth about this barbaric regime.

This is why we push for governments across the world to acknowledge that the Cuban regime is a state sponsor of terrorism, as stated in our written declaration in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

Democracies need to stand united, and it is crucial not to look away. The people of Cuba and Ukraine deserve our strong support.

Markus Wiechel, a member of the Swedish Parliament since 2012 representing the Sweden Democrats, has a deep focus on foreign affairs. He has been a member of various international delegations and is currently chairing Sweden’s delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, where he previously served as vice president. He is also vice chairman of Hepatica Foundation and a member of the Swedish OSCE delegation.

Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart is a U.S. member of Congress representing Florida’s 26th Congressional District.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/diaz-balart-fy26-ndaa-supports-troops-and-delivers-peace-through,Díaz-Balart: FY26 NDAA Supports Troops and Delivers Peace Through Strength Agenda,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,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 Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, the Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP), and member of the Defense Subcommittee, released the following statement after the passage of H. Amdt. To S. 1071, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, House Republicans are restoring our military’s focus on its vital mission of protecting the homeland and revitalizing the American military to defend the national security of the United States and its people.

Among its many wins, the FY26 NDAA supports the brave men and women serving in our armed forces by including a 3.8 percent pay raise for all servicemembers, expanding access to health care and childcare, and improving military housing.

Additionally, this legislation streamlines the delivery and development of new capabilities our warfighters urgently need by reducing burdensome red tape and better aligning promising technologies with operational requirements, ensuring our troops remain the strongest and most capable in the world.

I am proud to support legislation that prioritizes the needs of our troops while ensuring our fighting force is fully prepared and ready to defend our country.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3444,"Wasserman Schultz, Van Drew’s PROTECT Our Children Act Passes the House, Part of NDAA",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Debbie Wasserman Schultz,W000797,wassermanschultz.house.gov,wassermanschultz,https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, the PROTECT Our Children Act, led by U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), passed the U.S. House of Representatives as a part of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act. The PROTECT Our Children Act would reauthorize and modernize the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the companion bill in the Senate.

“Our lives are increasingly intertwined with the internet, and those who would commit crimes against our children know that all too well. With the PROTECT Our Children Act, the ICAC Task Force Program will get predators offline and help make the internet a safe space for all children,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “I’m proud that this bipartisan legislation to build on the original PROTECT Our Children Act that I authored over a decade ago passed the House. We all have a role to play in keeping our children safe.”

“Protecting our kids is one of the most important things we do in Congress,” said Rep. Van Drew. “I’m glad to see the PROTECT Our Children Act included in the NDAA the House passed today. It gives our Internet Crimes Against Children Task Forces some of the support they have needed for a long time. These men and women do tough work every day tracking down predators and helping rescue kids. This provision helps them do their jobs and helps keep more children safe.”

The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and internet crimes against children. This encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, and community education. This national network of 61 coordinated task forces represents more than 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies engaged in both proactive and reactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions.

Since 1998, ICAC Task Forces have trained more than 826,700 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and other professionals on techniques to investigative and prosecute ICAC-related cases. They have also reviewed more than 1,452,040 reports of online child exploitation, resulting in the arrest of more than 123,790 suspects.

The PROTECT Our Children Act would:

- Update and modernize the requirements for the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, including requiring the U.S. Department of Justice to provide detailed, useful information on efforts to protect children nationwide;

- Provide liability protection for ICAC Task Forces in the course of conducting criminal investigations of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and child abuse material;

- Make needed technical improvements and clarifications to the statutory text of the program to match it to current technology and needs;

- Focus the ICAC program on both proactive and reactive investigations;

- And reauthorize the ICAC Program through 2028.

“Raven applauds Congress for reauthorizing the Protect Our Children Act, a critical lifeline for the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Forces nationwide. This bipartisan bill ensures that investigators have the tools, partnership, and legal framework needed to keep pace with rapidly evolving online threats,” said Jennifer Dunton, Director of Legislative Affairs at Raven, a nonprofit that fights online child exploitation. “We are deeply grateful to the bill’s sponsors for their leadership and unwavering commitment to protecting children. As implementation begins, we look forward to working with the appropriations committees to ensure ICACs receive the level of funding necessary to meet the urgency and scale of this mission.”

The PROTECT Our Children Act is also endorsed by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Children’s Alliance, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), Rights 4 Girls, National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), Fraternal Order of Police, Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC).

####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://webster.house.gov/press-releases?ID=59896301-160F-436F-927F-1F9F6014F00C,Rep. Webster: FY26 NDAA Delivers on Peace Through Strength,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,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, voted to pass the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (FY26 NDAA), legislation that invests in U.S. military capabilities, supports American servicemembers and their families, and restores the military’s focus.

“I voted to ensure America’s Armed Forces remain the most capable and lethal fighting force in the world,” said Rep. Webster. “President Trump’s approach to national security is rooted in peace through strength, and this NDAA delivers on the President’s agenda. The FY26 NDAA strengthens our military’s capabilities, supports our servicemembers and their families, and ensures that taxpayer dollars are invested in readiness – not radical ideology.”

The FY26 NDAA codifies 15 of President Trump’s executive orders and includes more than 30 legislative proposals from the Trump administration. It provides a 3.8% pay raise for all servicemembers and makes major investments in critical defense programs including the Golden Dome missile defense initiative and F-47 fighter aircraft. The bill also advances the Trump administration’s priorities to revitalize the American defense industrial base, shipbuilding, and defense supply chains in the United States.

Webster added, “Supporting the U.S. Coast Guard is one of my top priorities, and I’m pleased that the FY26 NDAA authorizes the investments necessary so the Coast Guard has the tools and resources needed to operate effectively and carry out its vital missions. The Coast Guard plays a critical role in protecting our maritime borders, interdicting illegal drugs, conducting search and rescue operations, and supporting national defense.”

The FY26 NDAA also:

Fully funds National Guard deployments to assist Border Patrol operations at the Southwest border.

Authorizes over $22 billion for construction of submarines, destroyers, and new aircraft carrier.

Invests $15 billion to replenish depleted munitions stockpiles.

Saves taxpayers $20 billion by eliminating DEI programs, radical climate spending, and obsolete weapons systems.

Allocates $142 billion for investment in next-generation technologies like hypersonics, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-s-more-affordable-care-act-to-fix-obamacare-gains-additional-senate-support-with-sens-mike-lee-cynthia-lummis,"Sen. Rick Scott’s More Affordable Care Act to Fix Obamacare Gains Additional Senate Support with Sens. Mike Lee, Cynthia Lummis",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott announced the support of Senators Mike Lee and Cynthia Lummis on his More Affordable Care Act, to fix the failures of Obamacare and drive down costs for American families. Congressman August Pfluger, chairman of the Republican Study Committee, is leading this bill in the House of Representatives.

The common sense More Affordable Care Act allows American families to choose the health care coverage that best fits their individual needs by increasing transparency in the health care system, offering families the choice to shop across state lines, and sending any federal subsidies directly to Americans instead of insurance companies using HSA-style Trump Health Freedom Accounts that allow these funds to be applied to premiums and put health care decisions in the hands of Americans.

Senator Scott also outlined his proposal in his recent Fox News op-ed, “I Grew Up in Public Housing and I Know How to Fix Obamacare.”

Senator Rick Scott said, “American families see clearly that Obamacare has failed to deliver on its promises – instead, it created a broken system that screwed over the American people with higher costs and fewer options. Families are left paying higher premiums and higher deductibles for health care plans that don’t even fit their needs. We can fix that: we just have to let Americans be the consumer so they can get care that truly fits their needs and drive competition to lower costs. I’m proud to have the support of Senators Mike Lee and Cynthia Lummis, as well as Chairman August Pfluger in the House on my More Affordable Care Act that makes commonsense changes that empower American patients, not the government, to make their own decisions. We can make Obamacare actually work for families by giving them options, allowing them to shop across state lines, increasing transparency in health care, and giving any financial support to them directly through HSA-style Trump Health Freedom Accounts so families can choose the care that fits their needs. With more competition, clearer pricing, and allowing Americans, not government, to be the consumer, we can transform Obamacare into a system that gives Americans the freedom to get the care they need.”

Senator Mike Lee said, “Obamacare has scammed American families from the start. The More Affordable Care Act will let the free market run its course to deliver lower pricing and improved transparency so Americans can make informed and affordable decisions. Trump Health Freedom accounts will ensure Americans get the aid they’ve been allocated, instead of handing it out to insurance companies. States will be able to opt out of Obamacare provisions and allow residents to shop across state lines for better health plans. These changes will advance President Trump’s health care transparency agenda and start to relieve Americans from the lies sold by Obamacare.”

Senator Cynthia Lummis said, “I'm pleased to be working with Senator Rick Scott and other Republicans who are coming up with sensible solutions to try and fix the mess that is the Affordable Care Act. American taxpayers should not be subsidizing insurance companies; instead, we need to be empowering patients. The More Affordable Care Act includes pre-existing condition protections, lower costs for families, and forces competition into the healthcare marketplace.”

Chairman August Pfluger said, “I'm proud to fight alongside Chairman Rick Scott in introducing the More Affordable Care Act to fix the Democrats' Obamacare disaster that left families with skyrocketing costs and broken promises. By establishing Health Freedom Accounts, we’re putting health care decisions back where they belong: in the hands of American families, not Washington bureaucrats. The American people deserve better than throwing more money at a failed system, and we're delivering the commonsense solutions they expect.”

Senator Scott’s legislation:

Establishes Trump Health Freedom Accounts, HSA-style accounts that ensure federal dollars to support families are delivered to them directly, not funneled to insurance companies;

These funds can be applied to premiums and will be Hyde-compliant by restricting use on abortion health plans or abortion services;

Offers more options for plans that will create market-driven incentives to drive down costs;

Allows Americans to shop across state lines with the creation of a state waiver program within the Affordable Care Act, further expanding competition within the health insurance market and the availability of health insurance plans within existing ACA exchanges.

Any health insurance plan that is approved by a waiver state’s insurance commissioner shall be sold on an easily accessible exchange, whether that’s the federal exchange of healthcare.gov, a state’s exchange, or a state-managed, commercially run exchange.

Enhances President Trump’s Executive Order to increase transparency in health care and provide patients with the price and quality of a good or service in advance. Families will have up-front pricing on what things will cost them – a health care menu – so they can make informed decisions and plan for their needs.

Maintains protections for pre-existing conditions; and

Enhances the Small Business Tax Credit to encourage employer-sponsored coverage and increase accessibility.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases/rutherford-statement-fy26-ndaa-house-passage,Rutherford Statement on FY26 NDAA House Passage,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,John H. Rutherford,R000609,rutherford.house.gov,rutherford,https://rutherford.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) released the following statement on the House passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“As our country faces growing threats worldwide, it is important that we ensure the men and women who defend our nation in uniform have the resources they need to fulfill their mission at home and abroad. That is why I was proud to vote YES to pass this year’s defense bill to improve our servicemembers’ quality of life, bolster our military readiness, strengthen recruitment and retention of our armed forces, and deliver for our military families.

“This year’s defense bill furthers my commitment to supporting our troops and keeping America safe by:

Providing a 3.8% military pay raise for all servicemembers

Investing and improving military housing infrastructure to improve living conditions for our servicemembers and their families

Codifying President Trump’s Executive Orders like the Golden Dome program

Fully funding the deployment of National Guard and active-duty troops in support of Border Patrol activities at the southwest border

Reforming military construction to increase efficiency and reduce costs

Eliminating Biden administration-era DEI programs

Authorizing the procurement of four E-2D Advanced Hawkeyes

“Additionally, this bill includes support for vital construction projects at Northeast Florida military installations that will improve readiness and servicemember quality of life. If we want to keep America safe, we must provide for our military and their families. I was proud to vote in favor of this year’s NDAA and look forward to seeing it signed into law.""",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z
https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases/bean-pfluger-lead-charge-fix-obamacare-failures-and-empower-americans,"Bean, Pfluger Lead Charge to Fix Obamacare Failures and Empower Americans",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Aaron Bean,B001314,bean.house.gov,bean,https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL‑04) joined U.S. Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) in introducing the More Affordable Care (MACA) Act, a bold plan to put patients first in healthcare. This legislation takes on Obamacare’s failures and delivers real relief by driving down costs and empowering families to choose the care that fits their needs.

For years, the government has hidden the rising cost of health insurance through taxpayer subsidies. MACA puts power back in the hands of health consumers by directing support straight to Americans through Trump Health Freedom Accounts.

Upon introduction, Congressman Bean said: “We’re putting patients — not bureaucrats or insurance companies — back in charge of their healthcare. With Trump Health Freedom Accounts, competition across state lines, expanded access to employer-sponsored health insurance, and price transparency, this legislation empowers Americans to make informed healthcare decisions, increases choice and competition, and lowers healthcare costs. This is America First healthcare, and under House Republican leadership, we’re fixing the broken system.”

Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senator Rick Scott (R-FL).

Read the bill text here.

BACKGROUND

MACA delivers four key reforms to put patients first and drive down costs:

Money Follows the Person – Trump Health Freedom Accounts

Redirects federal subsidies from insurance companies directly into individual Trump Health Freedom Accounts.

Accounts function like HSAs but can also be used to pay insurance premiums.

Hyde-compliant: cannot be used for plans covering abortion or gender transition procedures.

Aligns with President Trump’s vision of putting money in consumers’ hands.

Empowers patients to make healthcare decisions, not government or insurers.

Shopping Across State Lines – Health Freedom Waiver Program

States may opt into a waiver program allowing health plans to be sold across state lines.

Participation can be requested by a governor or legislative majority.

Waivers are automatically approved by HHS.

States retain full regulatory authority over insurance products.

Plans approved in any waiver state are available across all participating states.

Non-participating states continue under the current system.

Small Business Support

Expands and strengthens the small business tax credit for employer-sponsored coverage.

Raises employee eligibility from 25 to 50 workers.

Removes the $57,000 salary cap.

Increases the credit to 50% for all eligible employers.

Price Transparency

Codifies President Trump’s Executive Order requiring hospitals to publicly report negotiated rates, costs, and cash prices.

Ensures patients have upfront pricing to make informed decisions and shop for value.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2025/12/buchanan-delauro-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-ban-mink-farming-in-the-u-s,"Buchanan, DeLauro Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Ban Mink Farming in the U.S.",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“Mink Farms are Inhumane, Unsafe and Unnecessary”

Legislation Would End Inhumane Mink Farming and Prevent Emerging Disease Threats from Spreading

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan, Co-Chair of the Animal Protection Caucus, and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) introduced the MINKS are Superspreaders Act, a bipartisan bill to prohibit the breeding, sale, transport or possession of mink raised in captivity for fur production in the United States.

“Mink farms are inhumane, unsafe and unnecessary,” said Buchanan. “These operations fueled dangerous disease transmission during the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to pose a major risk to families and frontline workers. With safer and more affordable alternatives available, it’s time to end this abusive practice, protect Americans’ health and help farmers transition responsibly.”

""Factory farming of mink is outdated and dangerous,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. ""Mink operations can incubate and spread new disease variants, and unsanitary and overcrowded cages create a perfect storm for public health threats. At the same time, with virtually no domestic market, the U.S. mink industry has been in steady decline for years. Now is the time to prioritize public health and for this legislation to become law. I am urging all of my colleagues to support this bipartisan legislation.""

The bill would phase out mink farming nationwide by prohibiting the transport, sale, breeding and possession of captive mink for pelt production and authorizes a voluntary federal buy-out program to assist remaining farmers in transitioning out of the industry.

Minks possess exceptionally weak immune systems and are highly susceptible to diseases that can spread to humans. During the COVID-19 pandemic, mink farms around the world experienced outbreaks and drove dangerous mutations of the virus. More recently, mink have demonstrated susceptibility to highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1), raising new concerns among animal health and infectious disease experts.

The legislation is supported by Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy.

“There is a very good reason that mink farming has been in decline for decades: consumers are embracing fashion choices that do not involve factory farming of wild animals and killing them for them pelts,” said Wayne Pacelle, President of Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy. “Add in that mink farms are incubators of dangerous diseases, and it makes very good sense for Congressman Rep. Buchanan again to lead a legislative effort to wind down an animal-killing enterprise that has outlived its usefulness.”

Buchanan is a leading advocate for protecting endangered species and ending animal cruelty, introducing and co-sponsoring dozens of important animal measures. Recently, Buchanan introduced the Save America’s Forgotten Equines (SAFE) Act to ban the inhumane slaughter of horses. He is also a two-time recipient of the Humane Society’s “Legislator of the Year” award, winning the award in 2015 and 2020.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2427,House Passes Donalds Government Efficiency Bill With Broad Bipartisan Support,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Byron Donalds,D000032,donalds.house.gov,donalds,https://donalds.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Tonight, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1676 – ""The Make SWAPS Efficient Act""by a bipartisan vote of 400-0 and will now advance to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

In July, the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources advanced H.R. 1676 – ""The Make SWAPs Efficient Act"" out of committee by unanimous, bipartisan voice-vote.

H.R. 1676 – ""The Make SWAPs Efficient Act"" was introduced by Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) on February 27, 2025, is co-led by Congressman Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), and has received the support of Representatives John Rutherford (R-FL), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Michael Guest (R-MS), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Daniel Webster (R-FL), Mike Haridopolos (R-FL), and John James (R-MI).

This commonsense legislation directs the Secretary of the Interior to approve a state’s wildlife action plan (SWAP) within 180 days. If the Department of Interior does not approve the SWAP within 180 days, the SWAP is “deemed approved.” H.R. 1676 has also received the endorsement of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; All Florida; Ducks Unlimited; and Florida Commercial Watermen’s Conservation.

SWAPs are developed and submitted by states to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to identify non-game species of greatest conservation need, so they don’t become threatened or endangered. Currently, there is no deadline for FWS to approve a complete SWAP once submitted by a state, and in most cases, approval can take over 18 months. 45 states have SWAPs due this year alone. Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) released the following statement:

""As we continue to peel back the labyrinth of federal bureaucracy that has paralyzed the basic functions of our federal government, we must turn to the Department of the Interior. Currently, it's taking over a year and a half to approve basic state wildlife protection plans to ensure non-game species do not become threatened or endangered. This is unacceptable and this is why I sponsored H.R. 1676 to expedite this timeline to just 180 days. We are making our government efficient again whether bureaucrats in Washington like it or not and I look forward to the swift passage of this important legislation in the United States Senate.""

Watch Congressman Donalds (R-FL) give remarks in support of H.R. 1676 from the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives HERE.

Watch passage of H.R. 1676 – ""The Make SWAPs Efficient Act"" HERE.

Background:

In 2000, Congress authorized funding for the State Wildlife Grant Program. Additionally, in 2001, Congress authorized funding for the Tribal Wildlife Grant Program. Today, both programs are commonly referred to “the State and Tribal Wildlife Grant Program” (the Program).

The Program, in part, provides funding for the “development, revision, and implementation of wildlife conservation and restoration plans and programs.”

In order to receiving funding under the Program, States must develop & submit to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) a wildlife conservation strategy—otherwise known as a State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP).

In 2005, all 50 States, D.C., and 5 U.S. territories developed/submitted SWAPs to FWS and generally, States must submit SWAPs every 10 years to receive funding under the Program.

More:

Read Text of H.R. 1676 – ""The Make SWAPs Efficient Act"" HERE.

See Bill Profile of H.R. 1676 – ""The Make SWAPs Efficient Act"" HERE.

See H.R. 1676 Social Media Summary of Bill Introduction HERE.

Watch Advancement of H.R. 1676 out of Committee HERE.

Watch Rep. Donalds Remarks in support of H.R. 1676 HERE.

Watch Rep. Crank Remarks in Support of H.R. 1676 HERE.

Watch Rep. Randall Remarks in Support of H.R. 1676 HERE.

Watch Passage of H.R. 1676 – ""The Make SWAPs Efficient Act"" HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://gimenez.house.gov/2025/12/congressman-carlos-gimenez-arrives-in-oslo-to-honor-maria-cornia-machado,CONGRESSMAN CARLOS GIMENEZ ARRIVES IN OSLO TO HONOR NOBEL LAUREATE MARÍA CORINA MACHADO,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Carlos A. Gimenez,G000593,gimenez.house.gov,gimenez,https://gimenez.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"OSLO, NORWAY — Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL) arrived in Oslo, Norway, as a personal guest ahead of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony honoring Venezuelan freedom fighter María Corina Machado.

María Corina Machado was awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize on October 10, 2025, in recognition of her courageous leadership and unwavering fight for a free and democratic Venezuela while confronting a tyrannical regime in her homeland in the face of relentless persecution.

“Being in Norway to recognize María Corina Machado is a powerful reminder of what true courage looks like,” said Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez. “María Corina Machado is one of the world’s bravest freedom fighters. She is standing up to the murderous Maduro regime, defeating Venezuela’s dictator Nicolás Maduro at the ballot box, and working with leaders around the world to restore freedom to her homeland. María Corina’s courage inspires us all and represents the hope of a free and democratic Venezuela. It is the honor to celebrate this historic occasion in Oslo, surrounded by her family and fellow freedom fighters.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://mills.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-cory-mills-introduces-bill-expand-opportunities-employee-owned,Congressman Cory Mills Introduces Bill to Expand Opportunities for Employee-Owned Businesses in Department of War Contracting,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Cory Mills,M001216,mills.house.gov,mills,https://mills.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Cory Mills (FL-07) today introduced the Empowering Small-Business Ownership Participation (ESOP) Act, legislation that expands access for employee-owned businesses to compete for critical Department of War contracts. The Department of War (DOW) recently created a pilot program intended to bring more employee-owned small businesses into its supply chain, known as the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Pilot Program. However, the program is currently unusable for nearly all ESOP companies because it requires participating firms to be 100% employee- owned—a threshold far above that used by the Small Business Administration's 30% ownership requirement. With roughly 6,300 ESOP companies nationwide, this hard cap shuts out nearly all of the employee-owned businesses that could otherwise strengthen DOW procurement.

The Empowering Small-Business Ownership Participation (ESOP) Act fixes this by aligning the DOW’s rule with the long-standing federal definition of an ESOP, which requires 30% employee ownership. Changing the program standard from “wholly-owned” to “owned” opens the door for thousands of legitimate ESOP businesses to finally compete, increasing competition, innovation, and supply-chain resilience across the Defense Industrial Base.

“Employee-owned companies strengthen our economy, empower workers, and deliver proven value and innovation,” said Rep. Mills. “But the federal government shouldn’t impose unnecessary barriers that prevent these businesses from competing. My bill ensures more employee-owned companies can participate in Department of War contracting, enhancing competition, innovation, and outcomes for the American taxpayer.”

By aligning the DOW pilot program with existing federal definitions, the ESOP Act expands access for employee-owned small businesses and will drive stronger competition, further encouraging American innovation, while reinforcing a resilient industrial base for America’s national security.",1,2026-05-28T06:29:45Z,2026-05-28T06:31:18Z
https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-salazar-sends-letter-urging-speaker-johnson-continue-funding-teaching,Rep. Salazar Sends Letter Urging Speaker Johnson to Continue Funding for Teaching Health Centers,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Maria Elvira Salazar,S000168,salazar.house.gov,salazar,https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, Rep. María Elvira Salazar (FL-27) led a letter urging Speaker Mike Johnson to support a multi-year reauthorization of the Teaching Health Centers Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) program. These centers train young doctors and dentists who serve communities in Miami and across the country with the greatest medical needs.

In Congress, Representative Salazar has been at the forefront of efforts to secure funding for the THCGME program.

“Healthcare must continue to be accessible to all who need it,” said Representative Salazar. “Teaching Health Centers produce the next generation of doctors and dentists who become trusted members of our community. It is essential that these services continue.”

“America's 1,512 Community Health Centers (CHC) appreciate Congresswoman Salazar and her colleagues' support for a long-term extension of and increase in THCGME funding. THCGME-trained doctors & dentists working at CHCs increase access to integrated primary, dental, behavioral, and maternal health care that is estimated to have saved Medicare & Medicaid about $1.8 billion. Increased investment in CHC-based health care workforce development will improve outcomes and lower costs for 52 million CHC patients nationwide,” said Joe Dunn, Chief Policy Officer of the National Association of Community Health Centers.

Background

The request for action reflects the urgent need to secure funding for Teaching Health Centers in a timely fashion. The Teaching Health Centers program has over a decade of bipartisan support and remains the only federal program that invests in training future physicians in community settings rather than hospitals. Timely resolution of the THCGME funding policy is vital to the Teaching Health Centers’ fall recruiting process.

Teaching Health Centers are central to ensuring quality care for our communities and reducing costs across our healthcare system.

You can read the full letter here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-calls-for-passage-of-resolution-denouncing-socialism-it-s-the-antithesis-of-the-american-dream,Sen. Rick Scott Calls for Passage of Resolution Denouncing Socialism: It’s the Antithesis of the American Dream,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor calling for the unanimous passage of his resolution condemning socialism as a failed ideology and the antithesis of the American Dream. Senator Scott’s resolution serves as a clear warning that socialism has only ever led to tyranny and less opportunity for all – and Americans will always reject it. Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar led the passage of the companion resolution in the House of Representatives.

Watch Senator Scott’s remarks in the video above or read his opening remarks as prepared for delivery below:

“Mr. President,

When I talk to families in Florida and around the nation, I hear often how they’re struggling to make ends meet. The cost of health care is up, owning a home has become nearly unattainable.

The former administration pushed the American dream further and further out of reach for so many families.

I grew up in public housing, and my family didn’t have much. And I look across the country, and I see families, just like mine growing up, that are doing everything they can to make ends meet.

But I knew I had the opportunity to do anything because the American dream was alive.

As Governor and Senator, my goal has been to keep the American Dream alive so every family can have the same opportunities I did.

That dream and those opportunities don’t exist under socialism. When crazy radicals in New York City and across this country villainize capitalism and push socialism, they forget that they’ve benefited from the very system they criticize.

Socialism has never worked. It’s just an old, barbaric discredited idea that’s failed every time it’s been tried. Just look at Cuba and Venezuela and the many families who fled those brutal regimes to live in my state of Florida. It kills opportunity.

We need to drive down costs. The answer isn’t more government – it’s less. We need to do what we did in Florida: cut taxes, reduce government regulations, and grow jobs.

The United States was built on individual freedoms and opportunities, and the right of every individual to pursue the American Dream despite coming from nothing, just like I did. That’s what America stands for.

This resolution is a stark reminder for the far-left: socialism is a failure, and Americans will always reject it.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2025/12/buchanan-announces-2025-congressional-fire-and-rescue-ems-award-winners,Buchanan Announces 2025 Congressional Fire and Rescue/EMS Award Winners,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"125 Area First Responders and 4 Civilians Recognized for Distinguished Service

View photos from the event here.

BRADENTON, Fla. — Friday night, Congressman Vern Buchanan announced the recipients 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 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:

Associate Service Award:

Manatee County Department of Public Safety: Adam Nover

Dedication and Professionalism Award:

East Manatee Fire Rescue: Firefighter Rob Day

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue: Company Fire Captain Ralph Mascaro

Sun City Center Emergency Squad

Preservation of Life Award:

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue: Firefighter/Paramedic Jacob Campbell, Fire Captain Clifford Davis, Firefighter/Paramedic Anna Inman, and Firefighter Maurice Swan

Manatee County EMS: Charge Paramedic Peterson Gustave, District Chief William Thayer, and District Chief Beth Tucciarone

Unit Citation:

Bradenton Fire Department: Engineer Joshua Eriksen, Engineer Zachary Gilbert, Firefighter Bo Gurskis, Lieutenant Jared Manning, Engineer Louis Chiocchio, George Norris, Captain Jonathan Turpin, Battalion Chief Barry Cornelison, Lieutenant Matthew McCabe, Engineer Brandon Beals, Firefighter Ricardo Rivera, Firefighter Luke Marvin, Lieutenant Scott Viehman, Lieutenant Thomas Ferrett, Lieutenant Robert Hinton, Firefighter Shawn Heinlein, Engineer Michael King, Firefighter Christopher Mundell, Firefighter Isaiah Cress, Lieutenant Lionel Harrison, Firefighter Jordan DeSear, Firefighter Brendan Lewellen, and Firefighter Aaron Wright

East Manatee Fire Rescue: Firefighter Jacob Dillard, Lieutenant Daniel Dunkum, Battalion Chief Craig Madsen, Captain Steven Baker, Engineer Ben Stasurak, Engineer Bret Kanapaux, Firefighter Chad Strauser, Firefighter Maciej Borawski, Deputy Chief Paul Wren, Battalion Chief Casey Lambert, Lieutenant Mike Hamilton, Engineer Derek Parker, Firefighter Jared Hoopingarner, Lieutenant Timothy Bedell, Firefighter Tony Mroz, Firefighter Nicholas Miller, Lieutenant Steve Ryckman, Firefighter Kyle Lamson, Firefighter Jason Burnside, and Engineer Jesse Reasoner

Manatee County Beach Patrol: Captain Marshall Greene, Lieutenant David Snyder, Lieutenant Luke Hitchins, Lieutenant JC Rapier, Lieutenant Jose Garcia Santos, Lieutenant Michael Patterson, Lifeguard Jack Bratcher, Lifeguard Josh McCarthy, Lifeguard Nate Hilbrands, Lifeguard Shannon Cielinski, Lifeguard Marek Drastich, Lifeguard Mark Mol, Lifeguard Patrick Curran, Lifeguard Kaylin Weiskopf, Lifeguard Allie Updike, Lifeguard Owen Munday, Lifeguard AJ Nelson, and Lifeguard Isabelle Pellegrin

Manatee County Emergency Communications Center: Telecommunicator Derek Turner, Telecommunicator Adam Bruner, Telecommunicator Brady Trott, and ECC Supervisor Tracey Haas

Manatee County EMS: District Chief Beth Tucciarone, Paramedic James Bryant, EMT Rachel Swim, Charge Paramedic Peterson Gustave, District Chief William Thayer, Charge Paramedic Michael Gorman, EMT Zachary Tocco, Specialty Charge Paramedic Sasha DeAngelis, Charge Paramedic Caitlyn Roskovich, EMT Simon Klimov, Specialty Charge Paramedic Kevin Guido, Charge Paramedic Anthony Tino, EMT Germaine Bolanos, EMT Robert Anderson, District Chief Troy Dufrane, and District Chief Keith Lock

North River Fire Rescue District: Captain Andrew Clark, Firefighter Charlie Childress, and Engineer Justin White

Parrish Fire District: Lieutenant Casey Schue, Engineer Wade Hoopingarner, Engineer Joe Jago, and Firefighter Anzzonni Hause

Tampa General Hospital Aeromed: Pilot Stu O'Shannon, Flight Nurse Alisha Burnett, Flight Paramedic Chuck Nelson, Flight Paramedic Orientee Luis Vazquez, Pilot Mark Boudreau, Flight Nurse Rob Freas, and Flight Paramedic Kelly Curren

West Manatee Fire District: Firefighter Jerrod Apple, Firefighter Tyler Snyder, Captain James Leigh, Firefighter Dane Miller, Firefighter Christopher O'Kelly, Fire Marshall Rodney Kwiatkowski, Training Chief Mark Tuttle, Battalion Chief Ryan Moore, Battalion Chief Derek Bill, Captain Tyler MacDonald, Firefighter William Bowen, Firefighter Clayton Lease, Firefighter David Miller, Firefighter Zack Misiura, Firefighter Aaron Reese, Lieutenant Inspector Keith Miller, Inspector Josh Adkins, Inspector Lisa Sedillo, and Inspector Nicholas Riffe

Career Service Award:

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue: Battalion Chief Jeff Martin

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-cherfilus-mccormick-issues-statement-recent-immigration-policies-0,Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick Issues Statement on the Recent Immigration Policies,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,FL,Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick,C001127,cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov,cherfilus-mccormick,https://cherfilus-mccormick.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick released the following statement on the new immigration policies.

""The new immigration policies, restricting green-card holders, banning asylum seekers from 19 countries, cutting worker visas, and ending TPS will have serious economic consequences. We need strategic workforce driven policies, merit-based pathways, and continued TPS provisions.

Without immigrant labor, businesses close, projects stall, and communities suffer. Immigrants have powered America’s economy for generations. They harvest our food, care for our families, build our homes, and support our hospitals, farms, and small businesses. In Florida alone, they are nearly 30% of the workforce and generate more than $170 billion in spending power.

Our industries are already facing worker shortages. Ending TPS for nearly half a million Haitians will worsen those shortages. A blanket ban on 19 developing countries will block students, nurses, entrepreneurs, and scientists who drive innovation and strengthen our economy. These policies risk shutting out the next Einstein or Carnegie and only help our competitors abroad.""

###",1,2026-04-22T05:46:42Z,2026-04-22T05:48:06Z
https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-patronis-supports-the-recognition-of-carbon-monoxide-action-and-awareness-month,Congressman Patronis Supports the Recognition of Carbon Monoxide Action and Awareness Month,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Jimmy Patronis,P000622,patronis.house.gov,patronis,https://patronis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Jimmy Patronis (R-FL) and Congressman Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) introduce a bipartisan resolution, H.Res.934, Supporting the recognition of November 2025 as Carbon Monoxide Action and Awareness Month. Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas that can cause serious poisoning incidents, killing many people and their families.

“As a former state fire marshal, I’ve seen how carbon monoxide becomes a serious risk after hurricanes, especially when generators aren’t used safely,” said Congressman Patronis. “We have to prevent these tragedies in our homes, and having a working carbon monoxide alarm is a simple step that can save lives.”

Approximately 86,200,000 U.S. citizens, or 36 percent of adults, have no carbon monoxide detection or alarm system in their homes, and

Carbon monoxide poisoning imposes a significant economic burden, costing the United States more than $1,300,000,000 annually in hospital expenses.

Full resolution text below:

RESOLUTION

Supporting the recognition of November 2025 as ‘‘Carbon Monoxide Action and Awareness Month’’ and promoting nationwide education, prevention, and detection efforts to protect United States families from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Whereas carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas that can cause serious poisoning incidents resulting in hundreds of deaths, over 100,000 emergency medical care visits, and approximately 14,000 hospitalizations each year;

Whereas more than 400 United States citizens die annually from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning and as many as 30 to 40 percent of victims die before reaching he hospital;

Whereas an estimated 76 percent of carbon monoxide poisoning cases occur in residential settings, demonstrating that the greatest risk exists in everyday home environments;

Whereas approximately 86,200,000 United States citizens, or 36 percent of adults, have no carbon monoxide detection or alarm system in their homes, leaving millions of families unprotected from a preventable danger;

Whereas environmental exposures in the home, including toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide, are known drivers of chronic disease, particularly among children, the elderly, and immunocompromised populations;

Whereas it is important to use carbon monoxide detectors that have been tested and certified by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory in order to verify compliance with UL standards;

Whereas certification is critical to help United States citizens recognize that these devices meet the standard safety and performance requirements;

Whereas national health initiatives have identified healthy homes as a critical component of preventive healthcare, calling for improved public awareness, strengthened safety standards, and greater coordination between public agencies and private partners to address indoor environmental risks;

Whereas carbon monoxide poisoning poses a significant risk after hurricanes due to improper use of gasoline powered generators and those poisonings could be prevented by carbon monoxide alarms and by placing gas generators more than 20 feet from indoor structures;

Whereas carbon monoxide poisoning imposes a significant economic burden, costing the United States more than $1,300,000,000 annually in hospital expenses, emergency response, and lost productivity; and

Whereas public education, routine appliance maintenance, and the widespread installation of certified carbon monoxide alarms are proven, cost-effective methods for preventing carbon monoxide injuries and deaths: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives—supports the recognition ‘‘Carbon Monoxide Action and Awareness Month’’; encourages Federal, State, and local agencies to collaborate with public health organizations, safety advocates, and first responders to expand awareness and prevention efforts nationwide; urges all United States citizens to install and maintain certified carbon monoxide alarms, to test them regularly, and to learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning; supports continued public and private partnerships that raise awareness of carbon monoxide hazards and promote healthy home environments; and commends first responders, medical professionals, and community educators for their ongoing commitment to saving lives through carbon monoxide prevention and education.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/in-case-you-missed-it-sen-rick-scott-s-more-affordable-care-act-to-fix-obamacare-garners-support-with-house-lead-rsc-chairman-august-pfluger,IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… Sen. Rick Scott’s More Affordable Care Act to Fix Obamacare Garners Support with House Lead RSC Chairman August Pfluger,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging Chairman Rick Scott’s More Affordable Care Act will be led in the House of Representatives by Congressman August Pfluger, chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC). Chairman Scott and Chairman Pfluger’s plan will give American families the flexibility they need to choose the coverage that truly fits their individual needs by increasing transparency in the system, offering them the choice to shop across state lines, and sending any federal subsidies directly to Americans, not to insurance companies, using HSA-style Trump Health Freedom Accounts to put health care decisions in the hands of each and every American.

Chairman Scott also outlined his proposal in his recent Fox News op-ed, “I Grew Up in Public Housing and I Know How to Fix Obamacare.”

Chairman Rick Scott said, “American families see clearly that Obamacare has failed to deliver on its promises – instead, it created a broken system that screwed over the American people. It’s time to fix it by allowing Americans to be the consumer so they can get care that truly fits their needs and makes health care more affordable. I’m proud to partner with Chairman Pfluger on my More Affordable Care Act that makes commonsense changes that empowers American patients, not the government, to make their own decisions. We don’t have to replace Obamacare, we keep exchanges, we keep protections for preexisting conditions – but we can add options for families, allowing them to shop across state lines, increasing transparency in health care, and giving any financial support to them directly through HSA-style Trump Health Freedom Accounts so families can choose the care that fits their needs. With more competition, clearer pricing, and allowing Americans, not government, to be the consumer, we can transform Obamacare into a system that gives Americans the freedom to get the care they need.”

Chairman August Pfluger said, “I'm proud to fight alongside Chairman Rick Scott in introducing the More Affordable Care Act to fix the Democrats' Obamacare disaster that left families with skyrocketing costs and broken promises. By establishing Health Freedom Accounts, we’re putting health care decisions back where they belong: in the hands of American families, not Washington bureaucrats. The American people deserve better than throwing more money at a failed system, and we're delivering the commonsense solutions they expect.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-congressman-bean-hosts-health-summit-dc-healthcare-affordability,ICYMI: Congressman Bean Hosts Health Summit in D.C. on Healthcare Affordability,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Aaron Bean,B001314,bean.house.gov,bean,https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—On Thursday, December 4, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) hosted the first installment of his Path to Consensus Series focused on healthcare affordability. The kickoff event featured two expert panels and a keynote from House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19), spotlighting ideas to lower costs, improve care, and put patients, not bureaucrats, at the center of the system.

The panelists engaged in constructive discussions on the reforms to the American healthcare system, including potential changes to the Affordable Care Act, stronger safeguards to reduce fraud, and strategies to bring healthcare costs under control.

These conversations demonstrated that with open and honest dialogue, meaningful healthcare reform is within reach.

About the event, Congressman Bean said: “Healthcare costs are exploding, and endless spending won’t solve it. We must confront the root causes. Real solutions depend on open, honest dialogue about lowering costs while expanding choice and competition. That’s the purpose of this series — to bring people together, find common ground, and move toward meaningful reform.”

BACKGROUND

The Path to Consensus Series will continue in 2026 with additional sessions, each focusing on a different aspect of America’s healthcare system. Congressman Bean underscored that the series is designed to be an ongoing dialogue, not a one-time event.

To watch the livestream, click HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-announces-kids-online-safety-act-protect-children-and-teens-online,Bilirakis Announces Kids Online Safety Act to Protect Children and Teens from Online Harms,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Gus M. Bilirakis,B001257,bilirakis.house.gov,bilirakis,https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Earlier today, Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Gus Bilirakis unveiled the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). This legislation provides children, teens, and parents with the safeguards and tools needed to better protect against serious online threats to kids' well-being.

“Children and teens are constantly connected to devices, and their reality is now a blend of virtual and real-world experiences-conditions that have been proven to exacerbate isolation and negative social interactions, such as sexual abuse,” said Representative Gus Bilirakis. “We’ve seen far too many children and teens succumb to tragedy after being exposed to dangers online. After multiple congressional hearings and whistleblower testimonies, there is widespread, bipartisan consensus that Big Tech is failing to mitigate risks, empower parents, and safeguard its youngest users. Our legislation will require them to do so.”

KOSA outlines a comprehensive series of safeguards that Big Tech platforms must implement to protect minors. Specifically, the bill would:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://buchanan.house.gov/2025/12/buchanan-honors-19-local-veterans-with-congressional-veteran-commendation,Buchanan Honors 19 Local Veterans with Congressional Veteran Commendation,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,FL,Vern Buchanan,B001260,buchanan.house.gov,buchanan,https://buchanan.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"3rd Annual Awards Ceremony Honors Veterans for Wartime Service and Peacetime Community Involvement

16th District Home to Over 64,000 Veterans

View photos from the ceremony here.

SUN CITY CENTER, Fla. — Today, Congressman Vern Buchanan announced the honorees of the 3rd Annual Congressional Veteran Commendation ceremony. 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 who 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 19 veterans for their wartime and post-military service:

Nelson Betancourt of Valrico who served in the U.S. Army outside of war time

Benny Blackshire of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War

Jeffery Camp of Parrish who served in the U.S. Army & Army National Guard during the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars

Jack Carter of Lakewood Ranch who served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam and Gulf Wars

Charles Conover Jr. of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army outside of war time

Ronald Cousineau of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Air Force outside of war time

Emily Farkas of Brandon who served in the U.S. Air Force during the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars

Ferris Garrett Jr. of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War

William Greer of Wimauma who served in the U.S. Air Force outside of war time

Brian Hammer of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars

Nathaniel Hawthorne of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Navy during the Iraq War

Roberta Jordan of Riverview who served in the U.A. Army outside of war time

Robert Lucas II of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army outside of war time

Danny Melton of Riverview who served in the U.S. Marine Corps outside of war time

MaryAnn Rowe of Sun City Center who served in the Michigan Army National Guard during the Iraq War

Richard Steinestel of Valrico who served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War

Roland Tiso Jr. of Valrico who served in the U.S. Army during the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars

Paul Wheat Jr. of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War

Edward Wudarsky Jr. of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War

Buchanan has a strong record of fighting for veterans and military families. In December 2021, a Buchanan measure to reduce military training accidents following the death of Bradenton soldier Nicolas Panipinto was enacted into law. In February 2025, Buchanan introduced the Veterans Mental Health Crisis Referral Enhancement Act (H.R. 1290), which directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a three-year pilot program to refer veterans experiencing mental health crises to approved non-Veterans Affairs mental health care providers, ensuring timely access to competent care. Buchanan also reintroduced the Veterans Overmedication and Suicide Prevention Act (H.R. 136) this Congress, 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,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z