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.

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FOR HURRICANE DEBBY

Last week, Hurricane Debby made landfall and caused severe damage throughout Florida. While President Biden approved public assistance for emergency protective measures, he delayed public assistance for debris removal. To expedite cleanup and prevent post-storm damages, I joined my colleagues in urging President Biden to activate Public Assistance Category A for debris removal to ensure the safe recovery of our communities. President Biden upgraded Florida's state of emergency declaration and activated Public Assistance Category A on August 10. 

Click here to learn more.

Click here for hurricane resources.

LEGISLATIVE LANDING: ENERGY INDEPENDENCE & AFFORDABILITY

I've been hard at work in the 118th Congress to pass measures that bolster our economy, strengthen our national security and hold the government accountable. Over the next several weeks, I'll highlight a number of critical legislative wins during this Congress.

The Biden-Harris Administration’s politically driven green agenda cancelled the Keystone pipeline, halted new natural gas projects and paused oil and gas leasing. This has drastically reduced the supply of domestic energy sources, causing energy costs to skyrocket. Since 2021, gas prices have increased 64 percent, electric bills 24 percent and groceries 26 percent.

To reduce costs and support American energy independence, I voted for H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act, which will: 

• Lower gas and energy costs by streamlining the environmental permitting process and increasing domestic production;
• Boost critical mineral production and processing to eliminate our reliance on adversaries; and
• Block bans on fracking and repeals all restrictions on the import and export of natural gas.

This bill passed the House by a vote of 225 – 204 March 30, 2023. It remains stalled in the Senate. 

Click here to learn more.  

CONSTITUENT CORNER

Are you having trouble scheduling a timely appointment at VA health clinics? Our office recently helped Air Force veteran Sarah book VA clinic appointments to get the care she needs. If you need assistance with the VA, or another federal agency, click here to submit your request or call (863) 644-8215.

Test Your Knowledge #CivicsWithScott!

Which policy category will the president most likely assert their authority over Congress?

A. Education policy
B. Environmental policy
C. Healthcare policy
D. Foreign policy

Last Week's Question

When comparing the three branches of government, Congress is most influential in which of the following?

A. Military affairs
B. Foreign affairs
C. Domestic affairs - Correct answer
D. Judicial proceedings

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