July 2023 President’s Message – Cleaning Up Politics – Something New

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Russell Tuff President, Republican Men’s Club

I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits as we progress through the summer season. As we continue our commitment to fostering camaraderie, political engagement, and conservative values, I wanted to share some important updates and mark your calendars for upcoming events.

First and foremost, I am pleased to announce that the Republican Men’s Club of Collier County is going strong, with our membership steadily growing and our collective voice resonating within our community. Your active participation and dedication to advancing our shared principles have played an instrumental role in our success, and I am grateful for your ongoing support.

I am also thrilled to inform you that our next monthly event, the August Breakfast Meeting, is just around the corner. This gathering serves as a fantastic opportunity for us to come together, exchange ideas, and strengthen the bonds of our Republican Men’s Club family. Our breakfast meetings are a staple of our organization, fostering an environment that encourages engaging discussions and meaningful connections.

See the information on our August breakfast meeting as we have a speaker in the know on military, intelligence and international politics. Learn More Here

In addition, many members have expressed an interest in meeting in a more social setting, so we are experimenting with a social time in the evening called “The Right Connections.”  See Details Here.

During the upcoming meetings, we will have the privilege of hosting many distinguished guest speakers who will share insights on pertinent political issues and provide valuable perspectives on the state of our nation. Their expertise promises to inspire and motivate us as we continue working towards our shared goals.

Additionally, we will use these occasions to discuss upcoming local and national events, including volunteer opportunities, and initiatives where we can make a tangible impact in our community. Your active participation is crucial to the success of our endeavors, so I encourage you to bring your enthusiasm, ideas, and commitment to the table.

As always, we value your feedback and input. If you have any suggestions for topics of discussion or guest speakers for future meetings, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team. We want to ensure that our events align with your interests and expectations.

The collective power of our Republican Men’s Club lies in the unity and determination of our members, and I am confident that together, we can achieve great things.

Thank you once again for your unwavering commitment to our cause and for being an integral part of the Republican Men’s Club of Collier County. Let’s continue working hand in hand, with integrity and conviction, as we shape a brighter future for our party and our nation.

Díaz-Balart’s FY24 State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Bill Approved by House Appropriations Committee

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Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs, issued the following statement after the release of the fiscal year 2024 State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs funding Bill.

A summary of the bill is available here.

Bill Report is available here.

Bill Text is available here.

Chairman Díaz-Balart’s opening remarks from today can be read here.

Click here to watch the Full Committee Markup.

“As Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs, I am proud of this legislation which funds our national security by drastically reducing wasteful spending overall. There were two critical components I considered within every decision made-our national debt and our national security. This bill includes real cuts with a 24% reduction from the Administration’s request and a 12% reduction from last year’s funding level. I am proud of the hard work that went into this important legislation. We scrubbed every program to ensure efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness.

Directly tied to our national security, is confronting our adversaries. To address the growing national security threat posed by China, this measure prioritizes countering the malign influence of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and for the first time, provides Foreign Military Financing grants to help democratic Taiwan deter PRC coercion and aggression. Additionally, this legislation provides unwavering support for our democratic ally, Israel, and two other vital security partners in the region-Egypt and Jordan.

Just as we must work to counter malign influences, we must also stand with our friends. In our own hemisphere, this bill includes key advancements to promote democracy and human rights. This measure supports democracy programs and informative broadcasts into repressive countries such as Cuba, Venezuela, Communist China, Belarus, and Iran. Furthermore, it directs the State Department to strengthen and reward key partners in our hemisphere, such as Panama, the Dominican Republic, Belize, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. This bill also provides funding to counter fentanyl and other illicit drug trafficking across the southern border, while also providing medical and other humanitarian assistance to Haiti.

This bill represents a significantly different approach, but it is also straightforward. If you are a friend or an ally of the United States, this bill supports you. If you are an enemy or are cozying up to our enemies, then you will not like this bill. Organizations that advance freedom and deliver results favorable to American interests are supported. Organizations that elevate human rights abusers, conspire with autocrats, reject transparency, and tolerate anti-Semitic sentiment do not merit support. This bill represents a significant departure from the status quo as we demonstrate a fresh approach to foreign affairs, one that recognizes the importance of safeguarding American interests, supporting our allies, and ensuring fiscal well-being.”

FISCAL YEAR 2024 STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS BILL

The bill prioritizes agencies and programs that strengthen our national security, counter the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Communist Party of China (CCP), provide support to our allies, and promote American values at home and abroad, while cutting the spending for low-priority activities and programs.

Supports our National Security

  • Promoting freedom in the Western Hemisphere, including $30 million for democracy programs for Cuba, as we mark the two-year anniversary of the historic uprising by the people of Cuba to demand freedom;
  • Prioritizing funding and policies to combat the flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into the United States;
  • Prohibiting funds for the PRC and the CCP, prohibiting funds for international financial institutions from loans to PRC;
  • Provide unwavering support for Israel by including $3.3 billion in Foreign Military Financing Program; and
  • Fully supporting other key allies in the Middle East, such as Egypt and Jordan.

 Promotes Freedom

  • Encourages our European partners who want our help with Ukraine to support us in defending freedom and democracy in our hemisphere as well, particularly in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua;
  • Exposes the trafficking of doctors from Cuba and conditions aid to countries participating in this form of modern slavery;
  • Strengthens language that directs USAID and the Department of State to regain programmatic management focus on core democracy issues vs. non-core issues;
  • Defer funding on Colombia as the current trajectory of Colombia under President Gustavo Petro is increasingly at odds with the United States’ security and economic interests. The Committee will continue to assess as the actions of the Petro Government and its relations with Venezuela, Cuba, and Russia, as the process moves forward. With previous assistance amounting to $500 million annually, the Committee wants to watch how events unfold in Colombia;
  • The bill strongly supports democracy programs in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua and outreach efforts that provide information to people living under authoritarian dictatorships; and
  • The bill also forces the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) to deal with Cuba as it does other rogue states by directing funding of $35 million for the operations of the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (Radio and TV Marti)

 Protects life, supports American values, and enhances economic competitiveness by: 

  • Prioritizing diplomatic engagement to favorably resolve commercial disputes abroad and to promote American business interests overseas;
  • Refocusing attention on critical diplomatic functions, such as addressing the backlog of Passport applications and ensuring the safety and security of our embassies;
  • Maintaining all long-standing, pro-life protections;
  • Supporting religious freedom programs abroad and religious freedom protections for faith-based organizations delivering foreign aid; and
  • Banning “disinformation” and “misinformation” programs that violate the free speech rights of American citizens.

 Support Israel and Addresses Hostile Nations in the Region

  • Fully funds the United States-Israel Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at $3.3 billion;
  • Prohibits funding to implement or enforce any agreement with Iran regarding its nuclear program or a renewal of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action; and

Expands and strengthens vetting related to the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement and engagement in political advocacy.

Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review

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Dear Fellow Floridian,

This week, I worked with my colleagues on the Senate Armed Services Committee to pass the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). My focus is always on getting Florida’s incredible military community the resources they need and ensuring we are prepared to stand up to Communist China’s increasing aggression, and this NDAA does just that with big wins for Floridians and support for our men and women in uniform.

 

Supporting our military shouldn’t be partisan, and I hope to see folks come together to get this passed. Read more about the NDAA HERE.

This week, I also worked to pass important legislation with unanimous support on the Senate floor. Ahead of the second anniversary of the tragic collapse of the Champlain Towers South building in Surfside, Florida, Senator Rubio and I introduced a resolution honoring the Surfside community and remembering those we lost. Read the resolution HERE.

I was also proud to see the Senate pass my END FENTANYL Act to ensure the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has the resources it needs to stop fentanyl and dangerous drugs from crossing our southern border. This is a huge step to ending the fentanyl crisis and the heartbreak it causes, and I’ll be fighting to get this important bill to the president’s desk and signed into law. Read more HERE.

To read more about my work to Make Washington Work for you, click HERE.

Sincerely,

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Rick Scott

United States Senator

 

To be the first to find out about Senator Scott’s actions and statements, follow him on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

See more of what Senator Scott has been up to this week below.

 

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Sen. Rick Scott Continues to Fight for Floridians by Reforming the Broken National Flood Insurance Program

 

Senator Rick Scott announced the reintroduction of three bills to reform the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) which would help lower the cost of flood insurance and ensure the property insurance market better serves Florida families. According to FEMA data, since the inception of the NFIP, Florida policyholders have paid more than $24 billion in premiums, but only collected approximately $12 billion in claims reimbursements, which equates to a 2 to 1 ratio of premiums paid to claims reimbursements. The situation Florida families face is clearly unfair and exactly why Congress must make reforms to encourage participation in the private flood insurance market as an alternative for hardworking Americans across our country. Senator Scott’s NFIP package has been endorsed by the Federal Association for Insurance Reform (FAIR).

Senator Rick Scott said, “With hurricane season here, flood insurance is top of mind to Floridians. Unfortunately, the National Flood Insurance Program right now is a perfect example of what happens when government tries to take over an industry – it fails. The NFIP is not only buried in debt, it’s now pushing huge rate increases through FEMA’s new ‘Risk Rating 2.0’ that is unsustainable and unaffordable for Florida families. We cannot allow that to continue.

“While I was Governor, we reformed Florida’s property insurance market to better serve families and we can do it at the federal level too. It’s time to make commonsense reforms that better serve Florida families. We should be offering more choice at a better rate. I am committed to fighting for change that encourages the development of a robust and affordable private flood insurance market and gives homeowners more choice and flexibility when purchasing their flood insurance plans. I know many of my colleagues in the Senate agree with me on this, and I urge them to join me in passing these good bills.”

Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to AG Garland: Hunter Biden’s Sweetheart Deal is Breaking the Trust of Americans in Justice System

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland slamming the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) double standard of justice when dealing with President Biden’s son, Hunter Biden, compared with both normal Americans and those perceived as his opponents. Senator Scott draws comparisons to the treatment the DOJ gave Deja Taylor, the mother who is facing a two-year prison sentence for her purchase and possession of a firearm while using controlled substances, and Wesley Snipes, the actor who served three years in prison for committing a very similar tax crime to the president’s son. Hunter Biden’s sweetheart plea deal reportedly ensures he will serve no jail time whatsoever and ultimately will not be charged with a firearms offense.

Senator Scott is demanding the DOJ explain the inconsistencies in the charges and is calling on AG Garland to explain to the American people why this decision was made in order to restore integrity to the department and the American justice system.

Read more in Fox News HERE and the full letter HERE

 

Sen. Rick Scott Highlights Importance of Hurricane Preparedness for Florida Seniors in Senate Aging Committee

During a hearing in the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, titled Before Disaster Strikes: Planning for Older Americans and People with Disabilities in All Phases of Emergencies, Senator Rick Scott discussed the importance of disaster preparedness for American seniors. During the hearing, Senator Scott also posed questions to experts on best practices for aging Floridians to follow this hurricane season. Senator Scott has been visiting communities across Florida and hosting events with local elected leaders, emergency management officials and business owners to emphasize the importance of being prepared for the 2023 hurricane season. See more from his latest stop HERE.

Read more HERE. 

 

Sens. Rick Scott, Jacky Rosen Lead Colleagues in Urging Biden Admin to Include Israel in the Visa Waiver Program

Senators Rick Scott and Jacky Rosen led more than 60 of their colleagues in a bipartisan letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas urging the Biden administration to include Israel in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The senators are also encouraging both the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security to prioritize finalizing Israel’s accession into this program this year. The VWP enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.

Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Urges President Biden to Demand Cuban Regime Shows Proof of Life of José Daniel Ferrer

Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after being notified by family members of José Daniel Ferrer, a Cuban democracy and human rights activist, that they have not seen or heard from him since March 2023. Since his arrest during the July 11, 2021 freedom demonstrations, José Daniel Ferrer has been psychologically and physically tortured by the illegitimate communist Cuban regime in a ruthless attempt to end his life. Senator Scott has been a vocal advocate for the release of José Daniel Ferrer and all democracy activists, especially the children, being unjustly imprisoned by the Castro/Diaz-Canel regime. His calls for action have resulted in both the Organization of American States (OAS) and President Joe Biden to call for the release of all Cuban political prisoners.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It’s absolutely despicable and unacceptable that the illegitimate Cuban regime has prevented José Daniel Ferrer’s family from seeing him for months on end. José Daniel is being unjustly detained in isolation, where he is subjected to physical and psychological torture by the brutal communist Cuban regime in an attempt to end his life. It’s time for the mainstream media to wake up to President Biden’s complete abandonment of Latin America that is allowing this torture and attempted murder to happen. Biden’s lack of leadership in the region undermines both our national security and human rights across Latin America. That must end today.

“I am demanding that President Biden join me and the countless Cuban democracy activists in demanding immediate proof of life of José Daniel Ferrer. President Biden must use this moment to end his appeasement of the brutal and illegitimate Castro/Diaz-Canel regime and make clear to the world that the United States will never ignore these horrific human rights abuses.”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

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Sens. Rick Scott and Marco Rubio Honor Surfside Community Ahead of Two-Year Anniversary of Tragic Building Collapse

Ahead of the two-year anniversary of the partial collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, Florida, on June 24, 2021, Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio introduced a resolution in commemoration and honor of the Surfside community and the lives of 98 people lost in the tragedy. This resolution was unanimously passed by the Senate this week.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It’s been nearly two years since the Surfside community experienced an unimaginable and sudden tragedy with the collapse of Champlain Towers South. We lost 98 innocent lives that day, and countless others woke up to the heartbreaking news that they will never again see their children, friends, parents, grandparents or loved ones. I remember so clearly the days after the tragedy how the entire community and organizations from around the world came together in mourning and to support those affected, especially in our Jewish community, working tirelessly to aid in search and recovery with the utmost respect. We will be forever grateful for those who answered the call to help the Surfside community. Today, Senator Rubio and I join together with our colleagues to honor the community and the 98 lives lost that solemn day.”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

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Sen. Rick Scott Issues Weekly Update on Biden’s Inflation Crisis

Senator Rick Scott released a weekly update on his actions to address America’s debt crisis and rising inflation. This week, as Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell testified in Congress, Senator Scott posted the below tweets slamming the complete mismanagement of Chair Powell who lost over $1 TRILLION in taxpayer dollars in the last year while families suffered with rising inflation.

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Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

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Sen. Rick Scott in El Nuevo Herald: Biden’s failed leadership in Latin America is a gift to China

Senator Rick Scott wrote an op-ed for El Nuevo Herald calling out President Biden’s policies toward Latin America that are benefiting the Communist Chinese regime. Due to recent events, such as Communist China establishing a spy base in Cuba, and Biden’s continued appeasement of Xi and murderous dictators around the world, no time is more consequential in Latin America’s fight for freedom, democracy and stability in the region.

In the op-ed, Senator Rick Scott wrote, “It’s time for the mainstream media to wake up to President Biden’s complete abandonment of Latin America. The Biden administration’s policies are not just a different path to a similar result; Biden’s lack of leadership in the region undermines both our national security and stability of our partners and allies across Latin America…

These developments have emboldened our enemies and will have long-lasting consequences that require us all, especially those in the press, to pay closer attention. Communist China has been strengthening its foothold, increasing its fiscal stake in Latin America and carrying out their espionage operations in the Western hemisphere with the sole purpose of taking over the region and destroying the United States…

Communist China has also been investing heavily in infrastructure projects, such as roads, ports, and railways, in Brazil, Argentina, and Venezuela…

In exchange, Communist China has been securing access to the region’s natural resources, such as oil, gas, and minerals…

It’s clear that Communist China is engaging in ‘debt trap diplomacy,’ where it provides loans to countries that are unable to pay them back, and then uses the debt as leverage to gain political influence…

Every time Joe Biden has the opportunity to join the cause of freedom, to stand up and fight against oppression, he decides to look in the opposite direction. What is so concerning is that President Biden seems to prefer enabling the dictators over helping the freedom-loving people of these countries…

The President of the United States is known both here and around the globe as the leader of the free world. Our president, regardless of who it is, has immense power to rally our democratic allies and the freedom-loving people of the world to put pressure on oppressive regimes and throw the full support of the global community behind the cause of freedom.

It’s the wrong message to send to Latin America and our partners and allies around the globe that the President of the United States is willing to look the other way when it comes to human rights, freedom and democracy. We cannot allow our leaders to pretend that what happens in Latin America has no impact on democracy around the world.

There has never been a more consequential moment than this one in our fight for freedom, democracy and stability in Latin America. This isn’t just about ensuring freedom for the people of these countries, it is about protecting America’s national security. Our enemies are working every day to strengthen their foothold in the region and Communist China’s spy base in Cuba is clear proof of this. In the Senate, I will continue working to force action by the Biden administration that makes clear to tyrants in Latin America, Communist China and around the world the strength of America’s resolve to stomp out the spread of socialism and communism.”

Read the full HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

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Fox News: Biden’s ‘farcical’ plea deal demands an explanation, Sen. Scott tells AG Garland

CNBC: Sen. Rick Scott on U.S.-China relations: You don’t do business with your enemy

Florida Daily: Marco Rubio, Rick Scott Want Biden to Release Information Collected on Chinese Spy Balloon

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Wants to Define Efforts to Delegitimize Israel as Antisemitism

The Floridian: Scott, Rubio Look to Address Passport Backlog

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Senator Scott’s Team in Fort Walton Beach

This week, Senator Scott’s team attended the Boeing Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for their newly expanded facility in Fort Walton Beach.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Orange City

This week, Senator Scott’s team also attended the grand opening ribbon cutting for Complete Health in Orange City.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Ponte Vedra

Additionally, Senator Scott’s team attended a K9s for Warriors Graduation in Ponte Vedra.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Lake Nona

Another event Senator Scott’s team attended “Café Talk” with faith leaders and elected officials to discuss Youth at Risk issues in Lake Nona.

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The Melo Minute

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June 16, 2023
A Week in Review!
Issue No. 114

District 82 Updates

 

State Budget Signed

Yesterday, Governor DeSantis signed the state budget.

 

Listed below are the individual projects I supported:

 

The Framework for Freedom Budget includes $2.7 billion in tax relief, the largest in our state’s history.

 

The “Moving Forward Florida Initiative” receives $4 billion to accelerate infrastructure projects in high-traffic areas, relieving congestion caused by rapid population growth.

 

The budget allocates $1.6 billion for Everglades and water resource preservation, ensuring a sustainable future for Florida’s natural treasures.

 

$635 million will go towards funding workforce education programs and apprenticeships.

 

I have listed below the projects I submitted that were approved by Governor DeSantis and will benefit Collier and Hendry Counties.

 

·         EVERGLADES CITY OPERATIONS CENTER $11,000,000

·        IMMOKALEE WATER SOFTENING $9,000,000

·        IMMOKALEE SMART UTILITY $3,500,000

·        IMMOKALEE FIRE STATION $6,500,000

·        HEALTHCARE NETWORK $1,750,000

·        HOME BASE VETERANS $1,500,000

·        CITY OF LABELLE FIRE STATION $6,500,000

· THE CITY OF LABELLE DRINKING WATER $2,000,000

·        FT. DENUAD BRIDGE REHABILITATION $1,200,000

·        PORT LABELLE ULITITY UNIT 1 $7,500,000

·        PORT LABELLE UTILITY UNITS 2&3 $4,300,000

·        IMMOKALEE WATER REUSE $5,000,000

·        OIL WELL ROAD SEGMENT 3 $1,120,000

·        OIL WELL ROAD SEGMENT 4 $1,015,000

·        GOLDEN GATE STORMWATER $2,800,000

· FOUR-POINT ROUNDABOUT $1,050,000

·        HOPE CONNECTIONS $400,000

·        CLEWISTON WASTE WATER PROJECT $11,000,000

·        CDL CONSORTIUM $3,800,000
Southern Regional Education Board

10-12 June in Atlanta

 

Next to me were Representative Massulo, Representative Tuck, Representative Trabulsy, and Dr. Devin Stephenson, NWF State College President/CEO.

 

Earlier this week, I attended the Southern Regional Education Board conference in Atlanta.

 

The Florida House education chairs showcased what Florida is doing to stay number 1 in education.

 

The conference was a consortium of all legislative members from many different states, sharing their policies and successes in their individual state.

 

Women In Real Estate Conference

 

What an honor to be a speaker at the WIRE “Women In Real Estate” conference.

 

I have attended many of these and always admired the strong, uplifting female speakers.

 

Thank you, Florida Realtors, for including me.

 

I want to give special thanks to PJ Smith, Paula Angelopoulos Urbinati, and Marcie Roggow who carpooled with me to Orlando to support me!

WANTED

Burmese Pythons

 

 

 

After studying the invasive Burmese pythons for a decade, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida has gathered alarming information:

 

·    Female pythons can have up to 100 eggs at once during the spring.

·    Pythons prey on any animal they find, and have decimated most of the mammals living in the Everglades. This has created an increase in the rat population. So far pythons have not killed humans.

·    They are a semi-aquatic species and can stay underwater for half an hour.

·    Because they only have a few predators in Florida such as bobcats, alligators, cottonmouths, and indigo snakes, there has been a huge increase in their population.

·    Pythons have an inner navigation system and easily come back to their home in the Everglades when relocated over 20 miles away.

·    So far they have remained in the Everglades but they might make their way to Alva and LaBelle.

 

 

 

VETERANS CORNER

 

Update on Veteran’s Nursing Home

 

On Tuesday, The Board of Collier County Commissioners approved setting aside $10 million to fund the construction of additional square footage in the future nursing home to provide adult care and outpatient therapy.

 

The funding would originate from the 1% sales surtax voters authorized in 2018 for several initiatives. In addition, the state Legislature will need to set aside $10 million during the 2024 session to assist in paying for the extra square footage required before the local funds can be used.

 

The nursing home will be located at the intersection of Collier Boulevard and Golden Gate Parkway.

8th Annual Veterans Recognition Day Event

 

On Wednesday, Veterans were honored by the Florida Department of Highway Safety (FLHSMV) and Motor Vehicles and its division of Highway Patrol.

 

To read the statewide news release, click here!

 

For more information on veteran resources at FLHSMV, click here!

Shy Wolf Sanctuary and Home Base Florida

Shy Wolf Sanctuary rescues wild animals that have been abandoned or neglected and gives them a home.

 

They partner with Home Base to help veterans connect with their resident animals.

 

For more information on Sabine and the other dogs up for adoption, click here!

 

For more information on Shy Wolf Sanctuary, click here!

 

For more information on Home Base Florida, click here!

 

Connect With Me!

 

Social Media

 

Follow our social media pages on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook

@LaurenMeloFL

 

Have Any Suggestions?

 

We are always ready to help!

If you have a question you would like us to address within The Melo Minute, send us an email:

 

Lauren.Melo@myfloridahouse.gov

It is an honor to serve as your State Representative. My team and I will continue to listen, work, and legislate on your behalf as we look to the future. God bless you all, and God bless the great state of Florida!

Representative Lauren Melo

Florida House District 82

If you’re new to The Melo Minute and would like to subscribe, click here!

 

Florida House District 82 | 3299 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, FL 34112

Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review

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Dear Fellow Floridian,

Almost two years since the historic freedom demonstrations in Cuba, Joe Biden is not standing up for democracy but instead ensuring his legacy will be his horrific failures to stop the spread of evil across the world. This was sadly confirmed by the Wall Street Journal’s reporting of a secret agreement between Communist China and the illegitimate, communist Cuban regime to establish a spy facility on the island targeting American business and military operations.

America’s enemies know Biden is too weak to stand up against them, so they are taking advantage of the hospitality offered by the illegitimate communist regime in Cuba. I pray that President Biden will defy our expectations and finally take a stand against this TODAY.

This move by Communist China presents grave threats to America’s national security that cannot be ignored. Every American should be up in arms about this. It’s not just spying on the government, which is bad enough. It’s spying on you, seeing your emails and your data.

If Biden gives a damn about the security of our country and the safety of our people, he will speak on this today, demand that Chuck Schumer set dates for security briefings and public hearings in the Senate and announce action to push back on Communist China’s unacceptable aggression. The appeasement and weakness must end now.

We cannot allow these two corrupt, murderous regimes to move forward with their evil plans to harm Americans and weaken the United States.

For more, click HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

Sincerely,

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Rick Scott

United States Senator

 

To be the first to find out about Senator Scott’s actions and statements, follow him on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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See more of what Senator Scott has been up to this week below.

 

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Sen. Rick Scott Hosts Hurricane Preparedness Press Conference in Palm Beach County

 

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Senator Rick Scott continued his hurricane preparedness tour in Palm Beach County. This marks Senator Scott’s sixth stop across Florida with local elected leaders, emergency management officials and business owners to emphasize the importance of being prepared for the 2023 hurricane season that began June 1st.

Senator Rick Scott said, “With the 2023 Hurricane Season starting last week, I am here to send one very clear message: Now is the time for every family to make a plan and get prepared. Last year, we saw terrible devastation with Hurricane Ian’s landfall, and it reminded us that severe weather can approach and change course so quickly. Now is a great opportunity for you and your family to stock your disaster supply kits with vital supplies like a first aid kit, a radio, flashlights, batteries, and other necessities—and you can buy hurricane supplies sales-tax-free up until June 9th, so take advantage of that. As I always say, you can rebuild your home, but you can’t rebuild your life. Don’t put your family and loved ones at risk. Don’t wait to take action. Get prepared today.”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

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Sens. Rick Scott & Ed Markey Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Resolution Designating June 6th Naloxone Awareness Day

Senators Rick Scott and Ed Markey were joined by Senator Marco Rubio, Senator Thom Tillis and leaders of the House of Representatives’ Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Task Force to announce a bipartisan, bicameral resolution recognizing June 6th as Naloxone Awareness Day. The resolution promotes awareness of the life-saving drug, Naloxone, which reverses opioid overdoses and prevents unnecessary deaths. It also aims to educate members of the public about the importance of recognizing the signs of overdose, and equipping themselves with the life-saving antidote.

This resolution has been endorsed by Victoria’s Voice, a Florida-based foundation that aims to bring Naloxone awareness to the national stage. Representatives of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Task Force who led this effort in the House include Representatives David Trone, Brian Fitzpatrick, Lisa McClain and Annie Kuster.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Too many mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, and friends have been lost to opioid poisoning in America. Naloxone saves lives and it is a critical tool in our fight to stop the loss caused by opioids in communities across our nation. I am proud to be joined by Senator Markey and a bipartisan group of our colleagues in the House to introduce a resolution designating June 6th as Naloxone Awareness Day to bring awareness to the issue and educate Americans about this life-saving drug.

 “I also want to highlight the Victoria’s Voice Foundation and the Siegel Family for the lifesaving work they do on advocacy and education about the dangers of opioids. This organization was started following a parent’s worst nightmare – the loss of a child – and they have made it their mission to ensure folks are educated and prepared to save lives.”

Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Hosts Hurricane Preparedness Press Conference in St. Augustine

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Senator Rick Scott continued his hurricane preparedness tour in St. Augustine. This marks Senator Scott’s seventh stop across Florida with local elected leaders, emergency management officials and business owners to emphasize the importance of being prepared for the 2023 hurricane season that began June 1st.

Senator Rick Scott said, “With the 2023 Hurricane Season starting last week, I have been traveling the state and I am here in St. Augustine to send one very clear message: Now is the time for every family to make a plan and get prepared. Last year, we saw terrible devastation with Hurricane Ian’s landfall, which brought flooding to communities across Florida, including here in St. Augustine. Ian also reminded us that severe weather can approach and change course so quickly. Now is a great opportunity for you and your family to stock your disaster supply kits with vital supplies like a first aid kit, a radio, flashlights, batteries, and other necessities—and you can buy hurricane supplies sales-tax-free up until June 9th, so take advantage of that. As I always say, you can rebuild your home, but you can’t rebuild your life. Don’t put your family and loved ones at risk. Don’t wait to take action. Get prepared today.”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

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Sen. Rick Scott Issues Weekly Update on Biden’s Inflation Crisis: Jay Powell is a Trillion-Dollar-Loser

 

Senator Rick Scott released a weekly update on his actions to address America’s debt crisis and rising inflation by sharing his statement slamming the Federal Reserve for losing over $1 TRILLION taxpayer dollars in the last year under the management of Chair Jay Powell.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Jay Powell is a TRILLION DOLLAR LOSER. He might be the first trillion dollar loser in American history. Under his watch, the Fed has managed to lose more than $1.2 TRILLION of taxpayers’ hard-earned money in the last year. It’s gross incompetence and when its paired with the wildly reckless spending of the Biden administration, it’s no wonder why we have massive inflation and debt. I am hearing from families all over Florida that are struggling to make ends meet, unsure how they are going to cover bills and save for retirement due to the burden of Biden’s inflation crisis. So when I hear of leaders in this country like Jay Powell, who are supposed to be good stewards of the American public be completely reckless, it makes me furious. The Fed does not have an independent Inspector General, it employs about 23,000 people and is losing nearly $3.4 BILLION EVERY DAY. Enough is enough. We must have real accountability NOW. Would you bank with the Fed?”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

 

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“Biden’s Debt-Deal Strategy: Win in the Fine Print”

Read the full article by Jim Tankersley with the New York Times HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “It’s clear that Democrats won the debt ceiling fight, which got more votes from Democrats than Republicans in both the House and Senate. Thankfully, no problem created by Congress today is unable to be fixed by a future Congress. That means this bad deal will only be in place for as long as we allow it. In the days, weeks and months ahead, I will be working with my conservative colleagues in the House and Senate to finally end the reckless spending, wildly climbing debt and failed bureaucracy through the appropriations process. This is the most important fight before us and Republicans must stop caving.”

Prior to his vote against the bad debt ceiling deal, Senator Scott authored an op-ed for Fox News detailing his opposition to this deal which allows the federal debt to climb to $35,000,000,000,000 over the next 18 months.
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Sen. Rick Scott in the Washington Times: Public Service Reform Act is needed to make Washington work

Senator Rick Scott wrote an op-ed in the Washington Times to highlight his Public Service Reform Act which will boost the accountability of federal employees and efficiency of the federal government. The Public Service Reform Act ensures that poor-performing employees can’t hide behind bureaucracy and continue to slow down the work of the federal government to serve American taxpayers. It is a disservice to hardworking public servants when their efforts are undermined by a few bad actors entrenched in the federal workforce. Senator Eric Schmitt joined Senator Scott in introducing the legislation in the Senate and Congressman Chip Roy introduced the companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

In his op-ed, Senator Scott wrote, “I’ve spent my life leading organizations of every shape and size — from a small doughnut shop to America’s largest health care company and then the great state of Florida.

Here’s what will make or break your success every single time: You have to have good people behind you who are mission-focused. If your team isn’t with you, it doesn’t matter how great your ideas are, you’ll fail. That’s bad for a business, and it’s even worse when it happens in government.

While the vast majority of federal employees are good, hardworking people, it takes only a few with bad intentions to gum up policy and bring projects, and even whole agencies, to a grinding halt.…

But right now, there’s little that elected leaders can do to stop those who wish to block them from carrying out the vision that the voters elected them to achieve. I’m fighting to change that with the Public Service Reform Act, which would make all executive branch employees at will…

I also think we need to put term limits on unelected bureaucrats. The permanent ruling class in Washington is bankrupting us with inflation and debt, so they must be removed…

Public service is a noble and worthy cause, but outside of critical national security positions, we don’t need people making a career out of government work. That only blocks fresh ideas and sticks us with old thinking, tired and failed policies, and even more red tape…

Americans are tired of the old, dumb and slow way Washington works. It actually doesn’t work at all, and that’s the problem we need to fix. If we want to change Washington so that it actually works for American families, we need to get rid of the failed top-down approach and stop looking the other way while unelected bureaucrats undermine the policies of elected leaders. It’s time to pass the Public Service Reform Act, take power away from Washington’s unelected bureaucracy and give it back to the people — where it belongs.”

Read Senator Scott’s full op-ed in the Washington Times HERE.

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WINK News Highlights Sen. Rick Scott’s Push to Put Parents in Charge, Keep Kids Safe From Unrestricted AI

In case you missed it, as artificial intelligence developments continue to advance and concerns with the technology grow, Ft. Myers’ WINK News highlighted Senator Rick Scott’s newly introduced Artificial Intelligence Shield for Kids (ASK) Act. Senator Scott’s legislation would prevent children from accessing artificial intelligence features on social media sites without the consent of a parent or guardian. Additionally, the bill requires the Federal Communications Commission, in consultation with the Federal Trade Commission, to issue rules prohibiting social media companies from charging a fee or mandating a paid subscription, as Snapchat has recently done, before allowing parents or kids to remove artificial intelligence features from products used by minors.

See the interview HERE or below.

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The Palm Beach Post: Hurricane Season 2023: Scott joins local officials in urging preparedness during stop in Jupiter

WPBF: Sen. Rick Scott makes stop in Palm Beach County on hurricane preparedness tour

La FM: Petro debe ser transparente en los dineros que financiaron su campaña: senador Rick Scott

The Floridian: Scott, Rubio Introduce Resolution to Celebrate Tampa-Based Rough Riders
Senator Scott’s Team in Tampa

This week, Senator Scott’s team attended the 125th Anniversary of the Rough Riders, 1st U.S. Volunteer Calvary Regiment.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Osceola County

Senator Scott’s team also attended the Osceola County Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honoring fallen officers.

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Senator Scott’s Team in Orlando

Another event Senator Scott’s team attended the PACE Center for Girls- Orange: Believing in Girls Breakfast in Orlando.

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