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Dear Neighbor,
As we work to support neighbors who are struggling to recover from significant damage during Hurricane Helene, we are forced to confront the unfathomable news that our area is within the projected path for Hurricane Milton which could make landfall as early as this Wednesday. The time to prepare is now. Local government officials are working around the clock to pick up as much existing debris as possible before Milton is expected, but the sad reality is that clean-up will not be completed in time. Each local government does have an open center where debris can be dropped off if residents have the ability to transport the debris themselves. Sandbag locations are also available in each county:
For Pasco sandbag locations, click here.
For Hernando sandbag locations, click here and
For Citrus sandbag locations, click here.
Last week, I spent a great deal of my time and energy assisting our neighbors who are suffering with significant damage from Hurricane Helene. I brought together leaders from FEMA, SBA and local power companies on a tele-townhall. Thousands of residents participated to learn more about how they can apply for help and were able to ask questions of each agency. Below, I've included some important information and reminders for those who need help. Of course, anyone who needs assistance can also call my office at 727-232-2921. I have also compiled a Hurricane Helene Resource Guide, which can be accessed here.
Unfortunately, there is a great deal of misinformation circulating about the resources that are available. FEMA has provided a Fact vs. Fiction Guide to help dispel myths - most notably, the agency wants to reassure victims that it does, indeed, have the resources it needs to assist all Hurricane Helene survivors. FEMA assistance is also NOT limited to $750.00.
I would also like to address a question that has been raised about my vote against the recent continuing resolution (CR). The CR was a single vote that would have enabled continued funding of all aspects of current federal government spending, including more foreign aid and a slew of wasteful and duplicitous programs and agencies that continue to push out burdensome regulations that are crushing innovation and hurting small businesses. The CR also extended policies that fuel inflation while ignoring the crisis at our southern border and other domestic priorities. Americans don’t want more of the same, which is why I voted no on the CR. The CR did also continue enhanced funding for FEMA and extend the National Flood Insurance Program. However, it is disingenuous to say that a vote against a large budget package can be considered a referendum on two individual programs that were included. I am committed to ensuring FEMA has the funding it needs to assist victims of natural disasters and will continue working with my colleagues to make sure this happens. This is a time when we need to be uniting in support of one another and it is unfortunate that some people are trying to politicize natural disasters when we have people who are suffering.
Many of the participants in my tele-townhall indicated that their homes are unlivable due to the hurricane. FEMA officials noted the following resources that are available and reminded listeners that shelters are still open for those who need emergency shelter. To apply for FEMA assistance with housing needs, visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-3362.
Displacement Assistance: Displacement Assistance is money to help with immediate housing needs if you cannot live in your home after the hurricane. This money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or for other options while you look for temporary housing. Displacement Assistance is a one-time payment. If you have used your Displacement Assistance and you still have housing needs, you can ask for Rental Assistance from FEMA..
Rental Assistance:Rental Assistance can help owners and renters pay for somewhere to live while repairs are being made or permanent housing is identified. The initial award for Rental Assistance may cover up to two months of rent. After the initial award, applicants can request Continued Rental Assistance.
Many constituents have also asked about the impact that Hurricane Helene will have on victims' ability to vote. Last week, Governor DeSantis issued an Executive Order giving local Supervisors of Elections in impacted counties additional flexibility to ensure all registered voters have the opportunity to cast their ballot. Click here to learn more.
Last week, I also joined many of my colleagues from Florida in asking President Biden to approve additional flexibilities that would improve hurricane response, expedite debris removal and ensure that those who are suffering get help as quickly as possible. Click here to read the full request.
I've been so encouraged by the outpouring of help for our neighbors who are hurting. In times of crisis we see the best of humanity emerge. However, too often we also see bad actors seeking to prey upon the vulnerable. Follow these simple tips to keep yourself safe from fraud.
Please continue reading to learn more about my efforts on your behalf last week.
Ensuring the Availability of AM Radio in Cars: Last week, I participated in a press conference with Attorney General Ashley Moody and Congresswoman Laurel Lee to highlight the essential role that AM radio plays in our nation's emergency communication system. We've seen during Hurricane Helene how vital this method of communication has been for those who suffered power and internet outages. Unfortunately, many manufacturers have announced plans to discontinue to availability of AM radio in their newest automobiles. My legislation, the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, which has passed out of the Energy & Commerce Committee will guarantee its continued availability.
Standing Up For Our Ally: Last week, we witnessed more vicious attacks against Israel. I issued the statement below to make it clear that I will always proudly stand behind Israel.
Protecting Consumers: After hearing concerns from multiple businesses in my district about how the port strike was causing damage and could potentially trigger supply chain disruptions that would have negatively impacted hurricane survivors’ ability to rebuild in a timely manner, I led a group of Florida lawmakers urging the Biden Harris Administration to utilize its statutory power for intervention. Click here to read our letter. As a result of the mounting pressure to avert a crisis, the two parties agreed to pause the strike and continue labor negotiations.
Learning from You: I appreciated Oak Hill Senior Living Center in Hernando County inviting me out to speak with residents about the work I am doing in Washington. We had a great conversation about the need to preserve Medicare, public investment in research to cure diseases, the border crisis, ensuring Veterans receive the care and benefits they deserve, and their desire to see more bipartisanship in government. I'll continue working on these important priorities.
I also had the chance to speak with residents of Country Place in New Port Richey as part of my Coffee with Your Congressman series. They let me know how record inflation was hurting them and shared concerns about election integrity and the long-term solvency of Social Security and Medicare. I assured them that I will continue fighting on their behalf.
As part of National Manufacturing Day last Friday, I toured ACME's plant in Brooksville to discuss the products they develop, the importance of domestic manufacturing for medical supplies and the harm caused by Chinese dumping. I also was excited to learn about their expansion plan that will include the hiring of 100 new employees.
Additionally, I was honored to celebrate the well-deserved retirement of Reverend Dr. Vassar Calvin Crews Jr., a dedicated servant of God and distinguished Veteran. I appreciate all he has done for his congregation and our community.
Raising Awareness: October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Early detection saves lives. Don’t forget your regular self-examinations as well as annual check-ups and mammograms!
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 toured flood ravaged homes in northwest Pasco last week alongside Governor DeSantis and provided information about the services available to help.
My team also attended the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce event at Tampa General Hospital last week to learn more about how businesses in the area were impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Additionally, my team attended a ribbon cutting ceremony for a new building at the Warrior Wellness Center in Holiday which serves Veterans from throughout the region.
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this note after helping one of our constituents resolve a hurricane related issue he was having with obtaining a building permit to start hurricane damage repairs.
THANK YOU for finally helping us get some answers! I feel like I was getting nothing but the run around from the people at the county. Your time is greatly appreciated. I really appreciate your quick response and help during this difficult time.
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!
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