News From Congressman Bilirakis

Fighting for Florida's 12th Congressional District

In Washington and Here at Home!

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April 9, 2023

Dear Neighbor,

I wish everyone observing Easter today a joyous celebration filled with all the hope that accompanies this season.  Also, I would like to wish all my Jewish friends peace, prosperity and good health as they celebrate Passover.  Since last week was a district work period, I had the chance to attend many events in the community and to speak with many of our neighbors about issues that were important to them.  Please continue reading for a brief overview of my work on your behalf. 

Working for You in Washington

Last week, we saw former President Trump arrested and arraigned on multiple counts of falsifying business records.  When a weaponized DOJ and a DA that is more focused on pursuing vendettas and garnering national news attention than on ensuring the safety of the people he represents engage in the most outrageous politically-fueled witchhunt in American history, it is a sad day for the American people.  I truly believe it will forever be remembered as a stain on our democracy.  Please be assured that my colleagues and I in the House remain committed to rooting out the corruption and abuse of power that resides within our institutions as we work to regain the people’s trust in our constitutional republic.

My colleagues and I are also working to give law enforcement the tools it needs to respond appropriately to those who are making deadly concoctions that are killing so many of our neighbors while protecting access for legitimate veterinary uses of xylazine. Click here to learn more.  

Also, I am fighting to expand Veterans' access to dental care. It is the right thing to do for our heroes and is fiscally responsible!  Read more about my bill and how it will help by clicking here.  

Additionally, I’m committed to ensuring seniors have access to life-saving diagnostic testing!  Click here to learn more about my initiative.  

Learning from You Here at Home

Thank you to everyone who participated in my tele-townhall last week.  With almost 6,000 of our neighbors participating, I enjoyed the chance to listen to the concerns and suggestions of many in our community while also offering an update on the work I am doing in Washington on your behalf. 

It was a pleasure to speak with constituents at Noble Senior Living in Hernando County last week.  I enjoyed learning from my constituents about the issues that are most important to them.

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It was also great to speak to the Hernando Chamber Advocacy Board last week about the challenges facing local small business owners.  I’ll continue working to address these problems in Washington, DC.

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I also enjoyed speaking to a group of local advocates who were participating in the annual ALS Golf outing to raise awareness and support for those struggling with this debilitating disease.  I’ll continue to support federal funding for the critical research that holds the promise for the development of a treatment or cure.

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Pasco Hernando State College (PHSC) Provost Lisa Richardson and Mrs. Lisa Yeager met with me to discuss the work PHSC is doing to help train our regional workforce and its plans for expansion.

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I'd also like to give a special thank you to Ms. Potter’s Class at Crystal River Middle School for inviting me to speak to them about my role as a United States Congressman.  The kids had great questions and a strong desire to make a positive impact on their community.  

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Community Connection

I am fortunate to have a team of dedicated staff who regularly attend events throughout our community, especially when I am required to be in Washington, DC. Through their collective efforts, I am better able to stay connected to the issues that matter most to my constituents. As part of my commitment to developing a better understanding of the issues facing constituents in Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties members of my team attended several events last week.  Here are a few highlights. 

My team enjoyed participating in the West Pasco Habitat for Humanity Home Dedications in New Port Richey last week.  Congratulations to the Burns Family and the Sutherland Family on their beautiful new homes!

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My team enjoyed participating in the Hernando PACE Center for Girls annual Believing in Girls breakfast.  PACE is such a wonderful program that helps struggling young women overcome the obstacles they’ve faced and achieve tremendous success!

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 Additionally, my team was proud to participate in the 49th Annual Blessing of the Fleet at the Gulf Harbors Yacht Club in New Port Richey. 

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Supporting Small Businesses

Small Business is the backbone of our economy.  Each week, I highlight newly opened or expanded businesses in our community that my team or I have visited. Congratulations to these hard-working entrepreneurs and best wishes for their continued success as they realize their American Dream! 

Congratulations to owner, Brian Winchester, on the opening of Manatee Buggies in Crystal River!

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Chris Hobson celebrated the opening of his new company, Luxe Landscaping, which will operate throughout Citrus County.  

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Additionally, Veronica Duurloo-Bogart was proud to cut the ribbon on her new venture in Citrus County, The Priceless Journey. 

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Constituent Corner

My office recently received this email after my team intervened in his VA case.

Yesterday my VA retroactive award from July 2022 magically appeared in my direct depository account.   I have no doubt that the action occurred because of you and Congressman Bilirakis.   I thank you for your help and please thank the Congressman as well.  As I stated, I have no financial problems, but I can't help but wonder if this VA - DFAS delay routine is happening to other retirees not in good financial shape. Thank you for your help!

This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. We are here to serve you!  

 

Sincerely,
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Gus Bilirakis
Member of Congress

Rep. Gus Bilirakis | 2306 Rayburn HOB, Washington, DC 20515
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