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Dear Neighbor,
It was another busy week in Washington during which I worked with my colleagues to stop deep fake pornography, improve the safety of over-the counter medications, and protect consumers. Continue reading to learn more about these important priorities and other efforts on your behalf last week.
Getting Things Done: I’m proud to once again be recognized for my legislative effectiveness. According to an independent analysis, I was the 31st Most Effective Lawmaker in the entire House and I have the sixth longest streak in Congress for consistently exceeding expectations. I will continue working with my colleagues to advance commonsense measures that improve the lives of those I serve.
Ending Deep Fake Pornography: I’ve spoken to constituents who have been deeply harmed by the inappropriate use of technology to digitally manipulate images for pornagraphic purposes. We must do all we can to put an end to this practice, especially when it involves children. Click here to learn more about my efforts to achieve this important objective.
Restoring Fiscal Sanity: A recent report shows yet another example of fraud, waste and abuse plaguing our system. By recouping the double payments insurance companies have received, we can help ensure the sustainability of critical programs, like Medicaid.
We are already starting to see the positive impact of President Trump’s America First economic policies with more investments being made in America. I will continue working with my colleagues to remove barriers President Trump has faced.
Combatting Global Terrorism: My colleagues and I are urging the European Union to join us in designating Hezbollah as a terror group. This designation will make it more difficult for Hezbollah to raise money to fund its terrorist activities around the globe. Additionally, it will hopefully weaken the organization’s support and eventually render it obsolete. As we seek to secure a future free of terrorism, the EU and United States must stand strongly united against those who wish to threaten our way of life and foster chaos, particularly in the Middle East against our staunch ally, Israel. Taking this important action is a major step toward achieving that moral imperative. Click here to learn more about our efforts.
Protecting Patients and Consumers: In last week’s Health Subcommittee hearing, we examined the need to extend FDA’s regulation of over-the-counter (OTC) medications and encourage domestic manufacturing of these products to ensure a system of safe, reliable and affordable OTC medications for all Americans. These products allow consumers to treat common ailments at home, often without visiting a healthcare provider, saving the healthcare system and consumers a great deal of money annually. Click here to listen to my comments during the hearing.
Last week, I also had the chance to meet with local dentists from my district and University of Florida dental students about the challenges in their profession and opportunities for promoting good oral hygiene to prevent disease.
I’m also working to improve transparency and protect consumers with my TICKET Act. Last week, President Trump issued an Executive Order that incorporates the transparency provisions included in my bill. My legislation will codify those portions of President Trump's order into federal law.
Raising Awareness: Most people don’t experience signs or symptoms of cancer until it’s in advanced stages. But you don’t need to wait for symptoms to check your health through cancer screening tests. Early Detection = Better Outcomes! This Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month, click here to learn what routine cancer screenings are recommended for you.
Preparing Students and Parents for Service Academy Application Process: I'm inviting local middle and high school students and their parents to attend my upcoming U.S. Service Academy Night featuring presentations by each of the five U.S. Service Academies. Participants will learn about the Congressional nomination process and about how to prepare for a successful appointment. Service Academies offer an elite education to the best and brightest students who are ready to make a commitment to serve their country in the Armed Forces.
Supporting the Arts: My office is now accepting submissions from students for this year’s Congressional Art Competition. All local high school students are welcome to apply.
Calling All Seniors: All seniors who reside in Florida’s 12 Congressional District are invited to participate in one of my upcoming senior forums.
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 recognized and thanked local Vietnam Veterans for their service as part of a National Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony.
My team also attended the groundbreaking ceremony for a new children's hospital in Pasco County. 
Additionally, my team gave a legislative update to the Heritage Pines Veterans Club.
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this message after helping resolve a problem our constituent was having obtaining and appointment through the VA's community care program.
Thank you so much for your help. I was contacted and the ball is now rolling again due to your intervention.
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! |