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.

ENSURING GRANT ACCESS FOR RURAL AND SMALLER COMMUNITIES

Applying for federal grants is an often complex and expensive process. Larger cities can afford to hire teams of grant writers and experts to help.  This puts many of the smaller and rural communities in FL-18 with tighter budgets at a disadvantage. These residents pay federal taxes, but are less likely to see tax dollars reinvested in their communities. That's why I introduced H.R. 914, the Simplifying Grants Act, to level the playing field and help them compete.

Specifically, this bill would:

• Mandate agencies provide a checklist of requirements to streamline the application process;
• Require the federal government review and simplify all current and new grant program applications; and
• Direct agencies report to Congress their progress.

Click here to learn more.

HONORING PUBLIC SAFETY HEROES

Last week, I was honored to provide remarks at the 2023 Haines City Public Safety Awards Banquet. This annual event celebrates the heroic actions and selfless courage of Haines City Police and Fire Departments. Thank you for working to keep our community safe. Congratulations to all the award winners!

CONSTITUENT CORNER

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a sacred honor. It is also a complicated legal process full of red tape. Our office recently helped Maria in Hendry County expedite her application to become a citizen. If you need assistance with an immigration matter, contact our office here or call (863) 644-8215. 

Test Your Knowledge #CivicsWithScott!

Who is the only person to serve both as President of the United States and Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court?

A. William McKinley
B. Andrew Johnson
C. William Howard Taft
D. Millard Fillmore

Last Week's Question

What were the last two states admitted into the Union?

A. Hawaii and Alaska - Correct Answer
B. Alaska and Oregon
C. Texas and Oregon
D. Washington and Hawaii

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