News From Congressman Bilirakis

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July 6, 2025

Dear Neighbor, 

This weekend, we’ve celebrated the birth of our great nation and the enduring principles of freedom, liberty, and self-governance that define the American spirit. As we’ve gathered with family and friends, may we not forget to honor the brave men and women—past and present—who have defended our freedoms and made this celebration possible. Wishing everyone a safe, joyful, and patriotic Fourth of July weekend! Keep reading for a special holiday weekend edition of my newsletter—shortened for the occasion.

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Delivering on Our Promises:  Last week's passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is a huge victory for the millions of American families. This bill is more than just a policy win. It’s a promise kept. It delivers real results for working families, small businesses, and everyday Americans who’ve been carrying the burden of a broken system for far too long.  Here’s what the OBBBA delivers:

  • A 22% tax cut for the average taxpayer
  • $1,700 in tax savings for the typical American family of four
  • No taxes on tips or overtime—so service workers and hourly employees keep more of what they earn
  • Tax relief for middle- and low-income seniors, ensuring dignity in retirement
  • Six million new jobs, powered by pro-growth reforms and investment incentives
  • A doubled Child Tax Credit, helping 40 million families
  • A guaranteed deduction increase for 91% of taxpayers, making filing simpler and savings larger
  • Tax relief for 26 million small businesses, with the top rate capped well below 43%
  • Repeal of the Alternative Minimum Tax for 7 million households
  • Protection of family-owned farms by doubling the Death Tax exemption
  • A $1 trillion boost to our economy, strengthening American competitiveness
  • A $1,000 savings account for every family at the birth of a child—helping parents build a foundation for the future
  • And up to a $13,000 increase in take-home pay for American families
But it doesn’t stop there. This bill also makes the largest investment in border security in a generation. It reins in wasteful Washington spending while preserving critical programs for the most vulnerable in our society. It unleashes American energy dominance. And it ensures that our military stays strong, ready, and respected.  Peace, strength and prosperity-that’s the path we’ve put America back on with this bill.  OBBBA is not just legislation. It’s leadership. It’s action. And it’s exactly what the American people deserve - which is why I was proud to case my vote for this critical legislation!

Improving Healthcare: As a senior member of the Health Subcommittee, I’ve introduced several key bills aimed at expanding access to high-quality care for all Americans. Here are just a few examples:

Having experienced vision challenges since childhood, I know firsthand how critical early detection and treatment are to a child’s development. That’s why I’m proud to lead landmark legislation that would establish the first-ever federally funded program focused on children’s vision and eye health. This bill will empower states and communities to improve care systems for our youngest citizens and ensure all children get the screenings and support they need at the right age.

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I also understand that physical therapy isn’t optional—it’s essential. Interruptions in care can have lasting effects, particularly for older adults. That’s why I introduced the Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act—to close access gaps and ensure seniors receive consistent, uninterrupted care.

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As Co-Chair of the Diabetes Caucus, I’m proud to co-author the Expanding Access to Diabetes Self-Management Training Act. Empowering seniors to manage chronic conditions like diabetes isn’t just smart policy—it’s a promise to support their health, dignity, and independence.

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And, as Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Rare Disease Caucus, I’m committed to advancing policies that support research and development of treatments for patients with rare diseases. The recent reconciliation bill reflects that commitment—prioritizing R&D and improving affordability for patients. It's a win for innovation and access.  Click here to learn more about my work in this area.  

Understanding the Challenges Facing Food Growers: I recently met with Bruce Taylor, CEO of Taylor Farms—the world’s largest producer of salads and fresh-cut vegetables, with several processing plants across Florida. We discussed key challenges facing the industry, including the dumping of foreign goods and uncertainty in the regulatory landscape. Florida’s farmers are essential to feeding our nation, and we must ensure they have the conditions needed to thrive.

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Raising Awareness: July is Military Consumer Month, a time to empower, educate, and protect those who serve. From identity theft to scams targeting service members and their families, it's critical we ensure our military community has the tools they need to make informed financial decisions and safeguard their hard-earned benefits. Let’s stand with our heroes—on the battlefield and at home—by promoting awareness and consumer protection. For resources and tips, click here

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 spoke with local small business owners at the Spring Hill Business Builders meeting.  

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My team also listened to an update from Citrus County School Superintendent Scott Hebert during the June Citrus County Chamber of Commerce luncheon.  

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Additionally, my team enjoyed getting an update on the efforts of  Save Crystal River, a non-profit group dedicated to cleaning up and preserving our waterways.  Image

Constituent Corner

My team recently received this message from a constituent after helping her obtain her father's military service records.

Just want to thank you and Joanne in your office for helping me get dad's DD214.  I was at a complete loss as to where to start and she was a miracle worker!  Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

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,
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Gus Bilirakis
Member of Congress

Rep. Gus Bilirakis | 2354 Rayburn HOB, Washington, DC 20515
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