Dear Neighbor,

I want to wish you and your family a happy and safe 4th of July  weekend.  I continue to be mindful of that fact that we are privileged to live in the land of the free because of the sacrifices made by the brave.  My heartfelt gratitude goes out to those who are deployed around the globe and away from their loved ones.  We honor and appreciate their service!

Please take a moment to read about my work on your behalf last week.

Fixing our Broken Mental Health System

For years, I have been working on legislation to fix our nation’s broken mental health system.  While we have made some progress in improving access and quality of care available, there is still much work to be done.  Too many barriers still exist for getting someone the help they need.   The House recently passed the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act.  It contains many lifesaving provisions that will help us address mental health and substance use issues. Here are some highlights!

The package also included provisions I co-authored to help address mental health concerns among children and young adults. 

 Additionally, it includes a provision I fought for which will require the Department of Health and Human Services to conduct a study of how cell phone screen time and the use of social media platforms is impacting youth mental health.  We need independent data so parents can make informed decisions about what is best for their children.   I urge my Senate colleagues to expedite review and package of this important legislation.

 

Protecting Your Privacy

I am proud to be leading the charge in Congress to protect your privacy.  During the recent mark-up, I spoke about the benefits of the bill.  According to a new poll, the majority of Americans approve of this measure!

Securing the Border

Since President Biden took office, over 2.9 million illegal migrants have entered our southern border.  This historically high number is proof that his open border policies are endangering our country.  

 
Additionally, officials report that 50 people on the Terror Watch list have been apprehended entering our country. 

These same officials estimate that at least 1,500 migrants per day are not able to be apprehended due to limited staffing and the surge that has occurred due to President Biden’s open border policies.  All Americans should be wondering how many terrorists slipped through undetected.   Unfortunately, just last week, the Supreme Court ruled in the Biden Administration's favor, allowing for the end of the "Remain in Mexico" policy.  The fact that the Biden Administration continues to pursue policies that worsen our border crisis and endanger Americans is unfathomable!  This is a matter of national security and we need to address it immediately.

Lowering Gas Prices

In a recent press conference, President Biden claimed that the high price of fuel we are paying is part of the incredible opportunity we have to "transition" to a green economy.  I, for one, would prefer to “transition” back to American Energy Independence!  Also, I do not support the gimmicks the President is now proposing in a transparent attempt to pacify voters.  Prior to his gas tax holiday scheme, his last gimmick was depleting our strategic oil reserve.  As you can tell by the prices at the pump,  draining to historically low levels has NOT resulted in significant savings, but it HAS jeopardized our national security.  If the President is serious about relieving pain at the pump, he needs to buck the progressive wing in his party and restore American energy independence through increased domestic production.

Understanding the Impact of Inflation on American Families

It is a fact that inflation has risen every month of Biden’s Presidency.  Despite his best attempts to deflect blame, the pain Americans are experiencing lands squarely at the feet of the President and Congressional Democrats.   Trying to cope with record high inflation, Americans are spending through their savings at an alarming rate. 

Fighting for Seniors

Seniors deserve access to high-quality medical care, which includes diagnostic laboratory services and other tests with the potential to save lives through early detection and individualized assessment of patient needs. Our bipartisan SALSA legislation will help ensure that continued access and I urge my colleagues to expedite its passage.  Click here to learn more.  

Celebrating Success and Raising Awareness

My team was proud to help raise awareness of domestic violence resources within our community at this year’s PEACE Breakfast hosted by Sunrise Domestic Violence Center.  The survivors’ stories are always so powerful and a great reminder that help is available.  If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Domestic Violence hotline at 1-800-799-7233. 

 

My team was also inspired during the recent PACE Center for Girls of Pasco County’s annual breakfast.  The work PACE is doing to empower at-risk girls to fulfill their potential is incredible. 

Supporting Small Businesses

Weekly, I highlight newly opened or expanded businesses in our community that my team has visited. Congratulations to our newest small business owners and best wishes for your continued success!

Congratulations to owner Antonio Fiorino on the Grand Opening of Ants Kitchen Cafe in New Port Richey. 

Also, congratulations to Kyriakos Provatopoulos, his daughter Maria and granddaughter Eleni on the re-opening of Susie's Port Richey Family Restaurant.

Constituent Corner

My office recently received the following message from a constituent.

THANK YOU, JAMES and KRISTEN!!!  My father-in law was struggling with prostate cancer and the effects of agent orange exposure.  He needed immediate assistance with accelerating/working through the VA red tape.  I appreciate the fast work you did - resulting in 100% VA coverage!!   

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!  

Sincerely,

Gus Bilirakis
Member of Congress