|
Dear Neighbor,
Last week was quite productive as we continued to make progress on the reconciliation package that will become the legislative vehicle for restoring an America First agenda and restoring fiscal sanity. As I work on these important budget-balancing provisions, I will be sure to keep your input at the forefront of my decision-making. Please continue reading to learn more about my efforts on your behalf last week.
Restoring Fiscal Sanity: Last week, three committees: Energy and Commerce, Ways and Means, and Agriculture, held markups to advance their portions of the reconciliation package. Since I serve on the Energy and Commerce Committee, my efforts largely focused on advancing fiscally sound policies that end wasteful spending on Green New Deal-style projects, support the rapid innovation of American industry and government, and preserve and protect Medicaid from waste, fraud, and abuse for the Americans who are most in need for generations to come.
While Democrats, with the help of the media, have been fear-mongering about potential cuts to Medicaid, it is important to look at the facts. In Florida, we have historically been fiscally responsible when it comes to Medicaid participation. The only individuals in Florida who are Medicaid eligible are: children, seniors, pregnant women and disabled adults. The eligibility and benefits for these categories of beneficiaries remain unchanged under our proposal. The proposal does impact other states that currently allow able-bodied adults to participate in Medicaid. These states would now be required to implement work requirements, but the states can exclude seniors, pregnant women, children and those caring for dependents from those work requirements.
The reconciliation package also includes my LIVE Beneficiaries bill, which requires states to certify quarterly that those in Medicaid are still living. I filed this bill in response to a recent independent audit of just 14 states that demonstrated $249 million in payments were issued to states for deceased individuals. It is this type of common-sense approach that we used to help us achieve significant savings while preserving benefits and access to care for our most vulnerable individuals.
Empowering Parents: I’m working to empower parents with the tools they need to better protect their children. Click here to learn more about our bill.
Strengthening Social Security and Medicare: Millions of Americans rely on Social Security and Medicare for financial security and healthcare in their later years. These vital programs are more than just safety nets—they’re lifelines and we have an obligation to protect them. We must stand together to ensure that future generations can continue to rely on these programs when they need them most. I’ll continue working to keep these critical programs strong, secure, and available for all who need them.
Honoring our Heroes: Late last year, a bill I sponsored to rename a Post Office in Brooksville after SPC Justin Dean Coleman was signed into law. SPC Coleman was killed in action in Afghanistan while helping to secure the safe retreat of Members in his unit. Last week, I was joined by SPC Coleman’s family, Commander, and friends to honor this local hero’s ultimate sacrifice as we officially renamed the Post Office in his honor. It was a beautiful tribute. May his memory be eternal!
.png "Untitled_design_(47).png")
Each May, we honor the courage, dedication, and service of the law enforcement officers who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe. To the men and women who put on the badge each day—thank you for your commitment, your sacrifice, and your unwavering resolve. We remember those who gave their lives in the line of duty and stand with the families who carry their legacy.
I had the pleasure of meeting with several local law enforcement officers when they visited DC last week as part of the national vigil to remember fallen officers who were killed in the line of duty. May the legacy of service these heroes left behind never be forgotten!
My colleagues and I want to protect those who protect us. We passed three pro-law enforcement bills out of the House last week. The Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act requires the Department of Justice to collect and report data on violent attacks against law enforcement officers, including government responses and gaps in reporting. The LEOSA Reform Act will allow qualified law enforcement officers who have committed themselves to their communities the opportunity to continue doing so by enhancing their concealed carry privileges. Additionally, the Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act will allow current federal law enforcement officers in good standing to purchase a retired weapon at market value from a federal agency. This bill supports law enforcement and SAVES taxpayer dollars.
Last week, I also had the privilege of celebrating each first responder entity within the 12th Congressional District’s designated First Responder of the Year. The inspirational stories of their outstanding service ranged from the delivery of lifesaving aid, remarkable community engagement with at-risk populations, and dedicated mentorship of future generations of first responders. We are fortunate to have such dedicated professionals serving our community.
Additionally, I recently held an event to recognize and celebrate local volunteers who help make our community a special place to live! Click here to read about their awesome impact.
Preventing Falls: Since Veterans, on average, have more chronic conditions than their non-Veteran counterparts, my colleagues and I are supporting additional measures that could help prevent unnecessary injuries or hospitalizations — and the massive expenses associated with falls. Click here to read about our legislation.
Encouraging Tourism: I was honored to accept a Legislative Leadership Award from SKAL USA for my efforts as Co-Chair of the Congressional Tourism Caucus to boost international tourism to the US and support domestic tourism.
Preparing for Hurricane Season: With hurricane season officially starting June 1st, now is the perfect time to make sure you and your loved ones are prepared. Don't wait until it's too late! Being prepared can make all the difference when a storm hits. Let’s stay safe and stay strong, Florida!
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 attended the annual breakfast to support Feeding Pasco's Elderly, a great program designed to ensure seniors in need have access to hot, nutritious meals.
My team also listened to an informative panel discussion with local leaders at the May Citrus County Chamber of Commerce luncheon.
Additionally, my team was proud to celebrate the success of local high school students at the New Port Richey Rotary's annual Scholarship Dinner.
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this message from a constituent after helping her with a FEMA problem.
I wanted to thank everyone in your office for their help escalating my case with FEMA Supervisors. I'm excited to share that after months, we finally received our FEMA deposit in our bank accounty. While it has been a long and frustrating process, everyone in your office was so patient, understanding and helpful. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the help!
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! |
