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.

Advancing America's Military Strength

An F-35C Lightning II lands aboard USS Nimitz 

(Courtesy of the U.S. Navy)

Last week, in the House we passed the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bill authorizes funding and provides key policy provisions for our country’s national defense. This year’s NDAA strengthens our national security, provides troops with a pay raise, and equips our military with the resources and training it needs to keep our country safe. I secured 15 critical provisions in the final bill, including two amendments which will further punish China for human rights violations and address our critical rare earths shortage. Click here to read more.

In the News

• Franklin and colleagues demand update from USDA on drug smuggling in food imports: Mexican cartels smuggling drugs in food shipments from Mexico is a systemic problem. Last week, I joined Senator Marco Rubio and several colleagues urging U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack to follow through on the agency’s commitment to report on drug smuggling via fruit and vegetable imports from Mexico. To read the full letter click here.
• Franklin joins GOP demanding Biden to prioritize domestic energy independence: Last week, I joined more than 60 GOP colleagues expressing concern about President Biden's trip to Saudi Arabia in search of more foreign energy, instead of increasing production here at home. To read the full letter click here.

The Congressional App Challenge 

Cell phone with apps (courtesy of Canva)

The Congressional App Challenge is a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) competition for middle and high school students in Florida's 15th Congressional District. It’s an important platform for students to showcase their skills in programming and computer science and supports the next generation’s interest in STEM areas. My office looks forward to reviewing this year’s submissions and encourages all interested students to submit their ideas for the competition! Click here to enter.

Constituent Corner 

Social Security cards (courtesy of Canva)

Magdalena needed help resolving an overpayment issue with the Social Security Administration (SSA). She contacted our office and we helped her work with the Lakeland SSA office to resolve the matter. If you need help with the SSA or any other federal agency, please call our Lakeland office at (863) 644-8215 or visit my website at franklin.house.gov. We look forward to assisting you!

Test Your Knowledge #CivicsWithScott!

What treaty signed in 1783 ended the American Revolution?

a. Treaty of Paris

b. Treaty of Versailles

c. Treaty of Jassy

d. The Congress of Vienna

Last Week's Question

What does the President's Cabinet do?

a. Creates the law

b. Advises the president - Correct answer

c. Commands the military

d. Vetoes legislation

I’m honored to represent you in Congress. 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