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.

WORKING TO EASE INFLATION IMPACTS ON FAMILIES

The newest inflation numbers released last week came in “hotter than expected.” Since President Biden took office, prices are up 19.4% overall and Americans are spending $1,000 more per month. Family budgets are being stretched thin thanks to reckless government spending and the administration’s backwards priorities.

I’m fighting to rein in wasteful spending, cool inflation and get our economy on a better path:

• As a new Member of the House Appropriations Committee, I worked to secure the first enacted spending cuts in 10 years;
• Cosponsored H.J. Res. 113, a Constitutional amendment that would require the federal government to balance their budget;
• Voted for H.R. 277, the REINS Act, to help grow our economy and reduce overregulation; and
• Voted for H.R. 1 to rebuild America’s energy independence and reduce energy costs.

SECURING THE FLORIDA COASTLINE

Misguided open border and immigration policies do not just affect us on land. Florida and other coastal areas have seen a dangerous influx in illicit activity from cartels carrying out drug and human trafficking by sea. Advanced technology can help the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Air and Marine Operations (CBP AMO) effectively track and catch these criminals before their vessels ever reach land. However, these operations require expanded jurisdiction for proper enforcement. That’s why I cosponsored H.R. 529, the Extending Limits of U.S. Customs Waters Act, which will:

• Double the U.S. customs waters territory from 12 to 24 nautical miles;
• Formally double CPB AMO jurisdiction and authority; and 
• Codify USCG and CBP AMO maritime authority into law.

REDUCING BURDENSOME AGRICULTURE REGULATIONS

Our ranchers, growers and producers feed the world and create thousands of jobs that strengthen our economy. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) often imposes burdensome regulations that make it harder on farming and rural communities. The ag sector should have input into government measures that could affect them. While limited oversight can help, the government should make it easier - not harder - for producers to operate in an already challenging environment.

I cosponsored H.R. 7900, the EPA Accountability to Farm Country Act, which would require the EPA to consult with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and farmer stakeholders to review and revise proposed regulations that may harm our nation’s ag sector. It would also prevent the EPA from finalizing a new regulation if they fail to mitigate the identified impacts.

Test Your Knowledge #CivicsWithScott!

Which battle is considered the turning point of the American Revolution?

A. Battle of Fort Sumter
B. Battle of Gettysburg
C. Battle of Saratoga
D. Battle of Trenton

Last Week's Question

How did the Voting Rights Act of 1965 affect the political process in the United States?

A. It enforced the Fifteenth Amendment, prohibiting racial discrimination in voting. - Correct answer
B. It enforced the Nineteenth Amendment, protecting the right of women to vote.
C. It extended suffrage to U.S. citizens, allowing 18-year-olds to vote.
D. It extended suffrage to U.S. citizens, allowing 21-year-olds to vote.

It is an honor and privilege to represent you in Congress. Please take a moment to fill out my latest constituent survey here. Your feedback helps me better represent you. 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