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.

APPROPRIATIONS WINS FOR VETERANS

Last week, the House Appropriations Committee voted to advance the FY25 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies budget bill, which is responsible for funding the VA and critical defense projects. The bill passed 34-25. 

I am pleased that several of my initiatives to improve transparency and care at the VA were included:

• Timeliness of Care at VA Facilities: Language inspired by my January 2024 bill, the SCHEDULES Act, is included, directing the VA to report to Congress on average wait times for veterans seeking care at VA hospitals. This report should highlight disparities and identify problem areas.
• Disciplinary Action at the VA: My Personnel Integrity in Veterans Affairs Act was included, directing the VA to continue investigations against employees credibly accused of misconduct and to notate investigations in the permanent records of resigning or retiring employees.
• Improving Compensation & Pension Exam Standards: I prioritized an initiative directing the VA to establish standard timelines and quality performance metrics for contracted and Veterans Health Administration medical providers carrying out disability exams. 

FIGHTING FOR DISASTER RELIEF

Two years after hurricanes Ian and Nicole, I'm still fighting to get hurricane relief for Florida families. Last week, a bill I cosponsored, H.R. 5863, the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, passed the House with bipartisan support, 382-7. This bill originally passed the House in a larger tax package, but stalled during Senate negotiations. Now, I urge our colleagues in the Senate to take swift action on this standalone measure—Floridians can’t wait any longer. Especially as we are only one week away from a new Florida hurricane season.

CONSTITUENT CORNER: HURRICANE SEASON PREP

Hurricane season begins June 1 and ends Nov. 30. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's 2024 outlook, there is an 85% chance of an above-normal season, with four to seven major hurricanes of category 3 or higher. Review resources to stay safe here.

The Florida Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday runs from June 1 to June 14, and Aug. 24 to Sept. 6. During those times, qualifying items necessary for disaster readiness are exempt from sales tax, such as batteries, portable power banks, generators and more. Click here to review the full list. 

Test Your Knowledge #CivicsWithScott!

In what decade did the Dow Jones Industrial Average first cross the 1000-point mark?

A. 1950s
B. 1960s
C. 1970s
D. 1980s

Last Week's Question

Which of the following land was NOT acquired by the United States at the end of the Spanish-American War?

A. Puerto Rico
B. Guam
C. Philippines
D. Cuba - Correct answer

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