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Dear Neighbor:
I’ve just completed another busy and productive week in Washington and here at home, where my focus remains firmly on serving you and advancing policies that strengthen our community, support hardworking families, and ensure accountability in government. Each week brings new opportunities to fight for lower costs, greater freedom, and more effective, responsive government, and I am grateful for the trust you place in me to represent your interests in Congress. Please continue reading for updates on my work on your behalf.
Protecting Vulnerable Children: I am proud to be leading efforts to ensure foster children have uninterrupted access to the mental health care they need. No child who has already experienced trauma should face additional barriers to treatment or stability. I will continue working in a bipartisan manner to close gaps in coverage and ensure vulnerable youth do not fall through the cracks. Click here to learn more about my efforts on this important issue.
I also had the privilege of supporting a meaningful cause at the Pasco Kids First Casino Night. Pasco Kids First provides critical services to children and families impacted by abuse and trauma, offering advocacy, counseling, and support at times when it is needed most. It was an honor to stand with an organization doing such important work to protect vulnerable children and help them heal, grow, and move forward with strength and hope.
Additionally, it was a pleasure to meet with a representative from Autism Speaks about the unique needs of individuals with autism. Their organization's advocacy and commitment to advancing understanding, support, and acceptance for individuals on the autism spectrum is both meaningful and inspiring. I deeply appreciate the important work they are doing to elevate these voices and strengthen efforts to ensure every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Strengthening Healthcare Access: In a recent Health Subcommittee hearing, I highlighted the importance of advancing commonsense, bipartisan solutions that improve care, support innovation, and put patients first. We owe it to the American people to get this right. Click here to listen to my exchange with panelists.
Putting Money Back in Your Pocket: Thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts, Florida families are seeing an average 11 percent higher tax refund. That means less money going to Washington and more dollars staying where they belong: in your pocket and in Florida communities.
I recently had the opportunity to hear from Marty Duffany, owner of Whiskey Joe’s, about the positive impact the new “No Tax on Tips” provision is having on his employees. It was encouraging to hear firsthand how this change is helping hardworking service industry workers keep more of what they earn and providing meaningful financial relief to those who rely on tips as a significant portion of their income. These real world stories underscore the importance of policies that support both small businesses and the employees who keep them running every day.
Jimmy is the proud owner of Seafood Seller in Crystal River. As he explains here, he is also already seeing the benefits from the Working Family Tax Credit Act.
Hosting You: I enjoyed meeting with constituent Kim Boulahanis, who was in Washington, D.C. last week. I appreciated the opportunity to learn more about her work and the positive impact she is making in her community.
Remember, my team is always happy to assist constituents visiting Washington, D.C. with scheduling tours of the White House or the Capitol Building. Please provide at least 90 days’ notice prior to your trip so we can best accommodate your request.
Celebrating Success: Darren, a 12th grade student at the Academy at the Lakes in Land O’Lakes, Florida, has been named a 2026 National STEM Festival Champion. Darren was selected from thousands of applicants nationwide to showcase his project titled “AR Glasses That Track Brain Tumors in Real Time.” Click here to learn more about his creative project. His work highlights how young innovators in our district are using science, technology, engineering, and math to solve real world challenges. In June 2026, Darren will travel to Washington, D.C. to present his research at the National STEM Festival during America 250, joining peers from across the country for a week of hands on experiences, mentorship from industry leaders, and opportunities to connect STEM learning to future careers. Congratulations Darren!
I also want to congratulate our FL-12 USAFA appointee, Jared Hauschen, on being selected as a Class of 2029 Freshman Cadet of the Fall Semester. This remarkable achievement speaks volumes about his work ethic, character, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence so early in his Academy career. This distinguished honor is a testament not only to Jared’s dedication, but also to the strong support system behind him - bringing pride to his family, his peers and teachers at Day Spring Academy in Pasco County, and all who have helped guide him on his path to military service.
Raising Awareness: Each April, we take time to recognize and honor the sacrifices borne by military families across our nation, with special attention to the unique experiences and needs of children in military households. These young people demonstrate extraordinary resilience as they navigate frequent moves, parental deployments, and the challenges of constant change, often with quiet strength beyond their years. Their sacrifices, while sometimes unseen, are deeply felt and deserve our continued gratitude, understanding, and support.
April is also Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month, a reminder of the critical importance of routine cancer screenings. Early detection can significantly improve health outcomes, often leading to more effective treatment options and more healthy days ahead.
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 had the privilege of attending the Glen Lakes Veterans Club monthly meeting. It was an honor to join with local Veterans who have selflessly served our nation and continue to demonstrate an enduring commitment to service, camaraderie, and community. We are grateful for the opportunity to hear their perspectives, share updates, and show our continued support for those who have worn the uniform in defense of our freedoms.
My team was also deeply inspired at this year’s Metropolitan Ministries Bridge Builder Luncheon. It was a meaningful opportunity to come together in support of an organization that continues to make a profound difference in the lives of individuals and families experiencing hardship. The work of Metropolitan Ministries reflects the very best of our community—offering hope, stability, and a pathway forward for those in need. We are grateful for their unwavering commitment to lifting others up and strengthening the fabric of our region.
Additionally, my staff met with local employees to highlight the meaningful benefits and tax relief provisions included in the Working Families Tax Cut Act. These discussions provided an opportunity to hear directly from hardworking individuals about how these reforms are helping to ease financial pressures, reward work, and put more money back into the pockets of families across our community.
Constituent Corner
I recently received this message from a constituent after my team helped resolve a billing dispute she was having with her insurance company.
I called your office to complain about Humana and the girl I spoke to was so understanding and helpful. Once your office got involved the whole thing got take care of very quickly. It was nice to have someone fighting for me.
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! |