Hello Friend,

Welcome to my e-newsletter, the Ready Room. As a retired Naval Aviator, the Ready Room is special to me because it’s where fellow aviators meet to brief and debrief missions. This is my weekly briefing to you on my mission in Congress. Please follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for regular updates on how my team and I are working to serve you in Congress.

Standing Up for Florida's Citrus Industry

Last week in the House Appropriations Committee, we hosted Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to discuss the President's 2024 budget request. I asked what his department is doing to help Florida citrus growers impacted by last year's disastrous hurricane season and ongoing issues like citrus greening. I also urged Sec. Vilsack to commit to providing aid to our growers by supporting my Block Grant Assistance Act. Florida's citrus industry is at a very precarious moment. We must act now to get them back on their feet. Click here to learn more and watch the hearing.

Improving Federal Research and Development Efforts

Last week in the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, we reviewed seven bills to improve federal research and development (R&D) efforts. One of these bills, the TRANQ Research Act would help us better understand and identify Tranq and other deadly synthetic opioids. These bills should come to the House floor soon for passage. Click here to learn more.

Constituent Corner  

Alan from LaBelle contacted our office for help recalculating his Social Security benefits. We contacted the Social Security Administration and helped him get his benefits adjusted to the correct amount. If you are having problems with your passport, the IRS, the VA, Social Security or another federal agency, we can help! Click here to learn more.

Hosting Mobile Office Hours at Davenport City Hall

Calling all Davenport FL-18 constituents! My team is hosting Mobile Office Hours at the Davenport City Hall on Wednesday, April 5th, 2023. We can help with a variety of constituent services, including the VA, Social Security, and more! Click here to register for an appointment.

Test Your Knowledge #CivicsWithScott!

In what year did Florida officially rejoin the Union following the Civil War?

A. 1865
B. 1868    
C. 1877
D. 1869

Last Week's Question

In what year did Spain cede Florida to the United States?

A. 1850
B. 1845    
C. 1819 - CORRECT ANSWER 
D. 1788

I’m honored to represent you in Congress. For more information on constituent services, current legislation, and to sign up for my e-newsletter, please visit my website at franklin.house.gov. 

Best regards,

C. Scott Franklin
Member of Congress