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Dear Neighbor,
As we wrap up another busy week, I want to share an update on the work I am doing on your behalf - both in Washington and here at home. From expanding access to homeownership and addressing rising housing costs, to delivering meaningful tax relief for seniors and strengthening our nation’s health and safety, I remain focused on policies that support families, protect our communities, and keep the American Dream within reach. I hope you will continue reading to learn more about these efforts.
Expanding Homeownership Opportunities: Families are budgeting carefully, saving responsibly, and planning for their future, yet rising costs continue to put homeownership out of reach for too many. My Save for Success Act offers a practical solution by allowing first-time homebuyers to access 529 savings they have already earned and set aside. Homeownership provides more than a roof overhead - it offers stability, pride, and a lasting connection to a community. This legislation helps ensure the American Dream remains attainable for the next generation. You can read more about the bill I coauthored here.
Last week, the House also passed the Housing for the 21st Century Act, which I proudly supported. This legislation modernizes outdated federal housing policies, reduces unnecessary regulatory barriers, and expands housing supply by encouraging innovation and efficiency. These reforms will help communities build more homes - faster and at lower cost - so families, seniors, and young people can find safe, affordable housing where they live. This is an important step in the right direction.
Making Voter ID and Proof of Citizenship the Standard: America’s elections must be secure, and voting in federal elections should be limited to American citizens. Although non-citizens are prohibited from voting, inadequate safeguards have allowed ineligible individuals to appear on voter rolls in some states. While 36 states require some form of voter ID, many still lack meaningful verification standards, and 14 states do not require photo ID at all. To protect the integrity of federal elections, the federal government must establish minimum nationwide standards. That is why I supported the House passage of the SAVE America Act last week. Under this approach, REAL ID compliant identification would be sufficient proof to vote in federal elections.
Honoring Gold Star Families: It was an immense honor to meet with three local Gold Star mothers. These remarkable women have transformed profound personal loss into strength and compassion, using their experiences to support others navigating the grief of losing a loved one. I am grateful for their willingness to share their stories and will continue working on the issues they raised with me.
Delivering Real Tax Relief for Seniors: As I outlined in my recent Op-Ed, improvements to our tax code are already making a real difference for seniors. A new $6,000 tax exemption for taxpayers age 65 and older, part of the Working Families Tax Credit Act, will apply from 2025 through 2028, whether seniors itemize or take the standard deduction. This change provides meaningful relief to millions, especially those living on fixed incomes. I also just introduced legislation with my colleagues to make this important tax exemption permanent. Additionally, I had the privilege of speaking with seniors in West Pasco about these changes and hearing directly how rising costs have impacted their lives. I will continue fighting to fully exempt Social Security benefits from federal taxation so seniors can keep every dollar they earned.
Improving Public Safety: During last week’s Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade markup, we advanced bipartisan legislation designed to strengthen automotive safety and better protect consumers across the country. The twelve bills we considered address a wide range of priorities from improving vehicle safety technology to modernizing our transportation regulations. Each of these measures reflects a commitment to keeping Americans safe on the road, while supporting the competitiveness and innovation of our domestic automotive industry. Ensuring safe, affordable, and reliable transportation is critical for families, businesses, and communities alike, and last week's markup is another step toward saving lives and preparing our automotive industry for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Click here to listen to my opening remarks.
Strengthening Supply Chains and Lowering Prescription Drug Costs: In the Health Subcommittee, we examined proposals to reinforce our domestic drug supply chain and reduce reliance on foreign sources. As Co-Chair of the Domestic Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Caucus, I firmly believe that securing our nation’s supply of essential medicines is both a public health priority and a national security imperative.
Protecting Animals: It was truly a pleasure to speak with Emmy Award–winning actress Edie Falco about the importance of ethical treatment of animals. Our conversation highlighted a shared commitment to compassion, responsibility, and respect for all living beings, and I was grateful for the opportunity to engage with someone who so thoughtfully uses her platform to advocate for meaningful change.
Improving Access to Care: I was honored to receive the 2026 Legislative Leadership Award from the National Association of Community Health Centers. Community health centers serve as vital medical homes, providing high-quality, affordable care to millions of Americans. I will continue working to support their growth and ensure they have the resources needed to serve our communities.
Streamlining Assistance to Disaster Victims: As Floridians, we know all too well the hardships that follow natural disasters. Getting timely aid to victims is critical, which is why my colleagues and I are urging swift passage of the FEMA Act to speed federal assistance and ensure help reaches families when they need it most.
Inviting You: Each year, I host a senior forum to connect seniors with valuable resources, services, and support available in our community. This is a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and get assistance to make the most of your retirement years. Space is limited, so please be sure to RSVP to secure your spot at this important and informative event happening near you.
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 was proud to attend the Hernando County Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon, engaging with local leaders and strengthening community connections.
My team also gained valuable insights from local small business owners while attending this month’s Nature Coast Manufacturing Association meeting. These conversations reinforced the importance of continuing to foster a business-friendly climate where local job creators can grow, innovate, and thrive.
Additionally, my team was inspired by the powerful stories shared at the Citrus County Soaring Eagles dinner, highlighting the positive and lasting impact scouting has had on the lives of young people throughout our community.
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this message from a constituent after arranging tours from these public officials while they were visiting Washington, DC recently.
On behalf of the Pasco County Community Development Team and myself, thank you so much for making our trip to Washington DC so special. Meeting Congressman Gus, the Capitol Tour, the White House Tour and even watching Congress in session is an experience we will all Treasure forever! We are so lucky to have all of you. Appreciate all you do for Pasco County. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
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. Also, if you are planning a trip to Washington, DC please let us know 90 days in advance so we can help make the most of your visit. We are here to serve you! |