Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review 10/30/21

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This week, as energy prices across America surge higher, Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor to request unanimous consent on his Give Americans Stability at Pumps as Rising Inflation Causes Emergencies (GAS PRICE) Act. This common sense legislation would direct the Energy Information Administration (EIA) to report to Congress any policy or rule set by the Biden administration which raises energy costs for American families. Senate Democrats blocked its passage.

Growing up Senator Scott watched his mom struggle to make ends meet and put food on the table, and now we are seeing skyrocketing prices hurt families today who are living paycheck to paycheck and struggling to keep up. While the Biden administration refuses to take responsibility for its policies that are causing rising energy prices, or take action to fix this urgent problem, Senator Scott continues to propose real solutions and fight against the Democrats’ radical socialist agenda that is driving up prices and hurting American families more every day.

See more HERE

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

Sen. Rick Scott: The Government is No Replacement for Parents When it Comes to Education

As the rights of parents are under attack by the Biden administration, Senator Rick Scott, joined by Leader Mitch McConnell, U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee Ranking Member Richard Burr and nearly thirty other Republican senators introduced a resolutionsupporting parents’ rights to be fully and actively involved in the education of their children. Recently, Joe Biden and his administration have politicized and weaponized the Justice Department, threatening to use federal law enforcement resources to intimidate and silence parents who speak out to protect their children from harmful curricula like critical race theory that’s being pushed by Biden and the far-left. Biden’s dangerous tactics are a clear violation on parents’ rights of free speech and the right to have a say in their child’s education.

This resolution is also cosponsored by Senators John Barrasso, Marsha Blackburn, John Boozman, Mike Braun, John Cornyn, Tom Cotton, Kevin Cramer, Mike Crapo, Joni Ernst, Deb Fischer, Lindsey Graham, Chuck Grassley, Josh Hawley, John Hoeven, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Jim Inhofe, Ron Johnson, John Kennedy, James Lankford, Mike Lee, Cynthia Lummis, Roger Marshall, Jerry Moran, James Risch, Marco Rubio, Tim Scott, Thom Tillis, Tommy Tuberville, and Roger Wicker.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The Democrats’ war on parents is disgusting. As a proud father of two, and grandfather to seven, it makes me furious to hear people say that the government knows better than a mom or dad when it comes to the education of their child. That’s why today I am proud to have Leader McConnell, Ranking Member Burr and nearly thirty other Republican senators join me in introducing a simple resolution supporting parents’ rights to be engaged and have a say in their child’s education. It’s not controversial or radical to say that we support the right of parents to be the leading voices in the education of their children. And it’s not controversial or radical to expect teachers, schools and school districts to regularly engage parents in constructive and open dialogue about school policies, curriculum, and instructional materials – and to LISTEN to their feedback. Moms and dads know what is best for their children, and it is a great thing when they get involved. We won’t let the Democrats use their radical, socialist agenda to drive parents out of education and replace them with the failed ideas of big government.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: GDP Bomb Shows Biden is Driving America Toward Economic Doomsday

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the Department of Commerce’s latest Bureau of Economic Analysis Report noting that Gross Domestic Product (GDP) fell to a 2% annualized rate of growth in the third quarter amid President Biden’s growing supply chain and inflation crises. These awful, below estimate GDP figures, which serve as the primary indicator of the country’s economic health and growth, further prove what Senator Scott has been saying for months: Biden’s dangerous, socialist policies are pushing America backward, killing jobs and driving our nation toward an economic doomsday.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Joe Biden has been an absolute disaster for our country. By embracing radical socialist policies over what’s truly in the best interest of American families, he has brought America to a dangerous low after just nine months in office. At every turn, he has made the wrong choice. Vaccine mandates? Kills jobs. Paying people more to stay home than go back to work? Kills jobs. Reckless government spending? Fuels inflation and creates a massive supply chain disaster that’s causing shortages and raising prices for almost everything. I hear it from Florida families every week – they are sick and tired of Joe Biden’s failed policies that are making it harder and harder to put food on the table, gas in the tank and a roof over their head. Folks can’t get by in Joe Biden’s America. It’s time for the president to wake up and listen before a devastating economic doomsday comes for the United States.” Read more HERE.

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Democrats Want Americans in the Dark, Block Sen. Rick Scott Transparency Proposal to Address Rising Energy Prices

As energy prices across America surge higher, Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor to request unanimous consent on his Give Americans Stability at Pumps as Rising Inflation Causes Emergencies (GAS PRICE) Act. This simple legislation, cosponsored by Senators Roger Marshall, Cynthia Lummis, Shelley Moore Capito, Ron Johnson, Jerry Moran and Marsha Blackburn, would direct the Energy Information Administration (EIA) to report to Congress any policy or rule set by the Biden administration which raises energy costs for American families. Senate Democrats blocked its passage.

Reports from the EIA have shown that prices on energy, like gasoline, have increased 55% in just one year, and it is predicted that this winter, home heating prices are going to rise by more than 40% for homes that use heating oil, more than 30% for homes using natural gas, and 54% for homes using propane.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Just this week, the South Florida Sun Sentinel ran a story with the headline, ‘Gas Prices hit their highest level since 2014. When will we get a break?’ As gas prices keep rising, the message from Florida couldn’t be more clear. But this is about more than just headlines. These skyrocketing prices are hurting real families who are living paycheck to paycheck, and struggling to keep up. I grew up poor. When my parents’ bills went up, it made it more difficult on my family. When gas prices went up, it meant we had less food to put on the table.

“The only person to blame for what we are seeing across this country is Joe Biden. He’s done everything in his power to destroy America’s energy independence. In his first month in office, he cut the Keystone Pipeline permit and killed thousands of American jobs. Then he suspended new oil and gas leasing and drilling permits for federal lands. Of course, Joe Biden only knows how to blame everyone but himself. Since the Biden administration has shown ZERO interest in fixing this urgent problem, I introduced a simple bill today that just made it so Congress would be informed when a new policy or rule causes energy costs for American families to go up. Of course, Democrats blocked it. Joe Biden’s lieutenants in the Senate will do anything to cover up the disastrous impacts of his failed energy agenda and today was just further proof of that fact. It’s shameful but I won’t stop fighting against the Democrats’ radical socialist agenda that is driving up prices and hurting American families more every day.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Sends Open Letter to G-20 Leaders: I Won’t Support a Global Minimum Corporate Tax

Ahead of the G-20 Summit in Rome, Senator Rick Scott sent an open letter to the G-20 leaders expressing his opposition to a country-by-country minimum tax rate of 15% on multinational enterprises, which represents a significant threat to American competitiveness. In his letter, Senator Scott reminds global leaders that any changes to tax code or tax treaties must obtain approval by the U.S. Senate. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: I Urge Airlines to Fight Biden’s Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandates

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Airlines for America President and CEO Nicholas Calio and National Air Carrier Association President George Novak urging the airline industry to abandon plans to impose President Biden’s unconstitutional vaccine mandates on their workforce—a driving force for unemployment. Throughout the pandemic, airline employees have worked hard to keep themselves and passengers safe. Now, the Biden administration is attempting to bully hardworking Americans and threatening their livelihood by forcing a false choice: get the vaccine or lose your job. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to President Biden: Taiwan Deserves Invitation to White House Democracy Summit

Senator Rick Scott urged President Joe Biden to publicly invite Taiwan to participate in The Summit on Democracy, which is being convened by the White House and Department of State on December 9th and 10th, to discuss challenges and opportunities facing the world’s democracies. Senator Scott’s letter follows President Biden’s public statement committing to protect Taiwan in the event of an invasion by Communist China. Senator Scott continues to fight for his bill, the Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act, to end America’s failed policy of strategic ambiguity. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Cynthia Lummis and Colleagues in Legislation Requiring Federal Employees to Return to Work

Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Cynthia Lummis, John Barrasso, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Marsha Blackburn, Mike Rounds and Roger Marshall to introduce the Having Employees Return to Duty (HERD) Act of 2021. This bill would require federal employees to return to their duty station and the hours they were working prior to the COVID-19 pandemic to help citizens across the country who are currently being underserved by federal agencies due to remote work and a backlog of casework issues.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I’ve heard from families across Florida who are facing issues due to backlogs at federal agencies. Americans everywhere are expected to go to work each day and are able to do so safely – the federal government shouldn’t be any different. We must get the government back to work for the American people and I hope all of my colleagues will support this good bill.” Read more from Senator Lummis’ office HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Chair Powell Must Prove Federal Reserve is Independent & Working for American Families

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell making it clear that he will not support Chair Powell for another term as Chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve unless he shows that the Federal Reserve is an independent agency working in the best interests of American families. Throughout this year, Senator Scott has repeatedly expressed his frustration with Chair Powell’s blind obedience to the failed policies and agenda of President Biden and the Democrats, and his lack of independent leadership to mitigate the harmful impacts of rising inflation. As hardworking families across America continue to suffer because of skyrocketing inflation, a supply chain crisis, a workforce disaster and a historical amount of federal debt, Chair Powell has continued to direct the Federal Reserve to manipulate markets with huge treasury bond purchases and done nothing to protect families. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Raging Inflation Shows Biden’s Socialism & Powell’s Inaction are Destroying America

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the Bureau and Labor Statistics Reportnoting the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index has risen to 4.4% over the year, the highest level seen all year. This data shows how President Biden’s inflation crisis, caused by his and Democrats’ socialist policies and reckless government spending, is shrinking budgets for families as the prices of everyday goods continue to skyrocket.

Senator Scott has been urging President Biden to stop his unconstitutional vaccine mandates which are causing families to make an impossible choice: comply to keep their job, quit, or be fired. Reports from the Federal Reserve have shown that reckless policies like this are fueling Biden’s supply chain and inflation crises. Earlier this week, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Federal Chair Jerome Powell making it clear that if Powell does not start showing the Federal Reserve is acting as an independent agency, Senator Scott will not support another term for Powell as Chair.

Senator Rick Scott said, “What in the world is President Joe Biden thinking? Report after report shows plain and simple that Biden’s socialist policies and unconstitutional vaccine mandates are killing our economy, harming our businesses and leaving our families with less and less. And what is he doing to fix it? NOTHING. Biden signed up to lead the country but he’s done absolutely NOTHING to help American families. This is hurting mothers like mine growing up, who struggled to make ends meet, and it makes me furious. The incompetence is astonishing. But, Biden isn’t the only one to blame. As Biden destroys the economy, Chair Powell has been nothing but a puppet for his disastrous agenda. With inflation still raging and the latest GDP figures showing the economy is headed in the wrong direction, we must act now to protect American families. If Biden and Powell can’t do the job, they need to get out of the way.” Read more HERE.
Fox News: GOP senators demand fully-vaccinated federal employees return to in-person work to address massive backlog

National Review: Exclusive: Congressional Republicans Affirm That There Is No International Right to Abortion

Jerusalem Post: GOP bill seeks to stop Jerusalem consulate for Palestinians

Taipei Times: Invite Taiwan to summit: US’ Scott

Breitbart: Report: 129 Republicans Demand 11 Biden Admin Officials Resign

Jerusalem Post: Senate GOP bill seeks to block Jerusalem consulate reopening

WKMG: Senators call for new zip codes for Ocoee, Oakland in bill

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Calls on Airline Industry to Resist Mandatory Vaccinations

Florida Daily: Rick Scott to HHS Inspector General: American Families Demand Answers on COVID-19 Origins

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Wants to Know if State Department is Investigating Pan American Health Organization

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Introduces the Extending Limits of U.S. Customs Waters Act With Kyrsten Sinema’s Support

Florida Daily: Marco Rubio, Rick Scott Want New Zip Codes in Florida

Florida Daily: Marco Rubio, Rick Scott, Michael Waltz Continue Efforts to Change Water Quality Allocation to the States
Senator Scott has received his COVID-19 vaccine, and he encourages everyone consider doing the same. The COVID-19 vaccine works and is critical to ending the pandemic and saving lives.

For more information and to find out where you can get the shot, visit floridahealthcovid19.gov/vaccines.
TALLAHASSEE
111 N. Adams Street, Suite 208
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Phone: (850) 942-8415		 WEST PALM BEACH 
415 Clematis Street, Suite 201
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 514-0189		 TAMPA
801 North Florida Avenue, Suite 421
Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 225-7040
KISSIMMEE 
1 Courthouse Square, Suite 300
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Phone: (407) 586-7879		 PENSACOLA 
221 Palafox Place, Suite 420
Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: (850) 760-5151		 MIAMI 
901 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 505
Miami, FL 33134
Phone: (786) 501-7141
NAPLES
3299 Tamiami Trail East, #106
Naples, FL 34112
Phone: (239) 231-7890		 JACKSONVILLE
400 West Bay Street, Suite 289
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 479-7227		 ORLANDO
225 East Robinson Street, Suite 410
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 872-7161
  WASHINGTON, D.C.
716 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-5274		  
  Fax: (202) 228-4535

RPOF Newsletter – Chairman Joe Gruter’s Message

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Chairman’s Message

Florida job growth soars. Covid cases plummet.

At the same time as Covid cases continue to plunge in Florida, to the lowest in the nation, the state’s job growth soars to the highest in the nation — demonstrating again the wisdom of Governor DeSantis’ freedom-first agenda.

Florida’s Covid case count is down 90 percent from two months ago, and 76 percent since Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo signed new rules about a month ago that empowered parental control over their children’s health, banned quarantining healthy people and kept kids in school mask-free. Florida’s case rate is currently half of California’s, which has the strictest mask and vaccine requirements in the nation and is mandating every child over five be vaccinated to attend school.

“Without mandates or lockdowns, COVID-19 cases in Florida have decreased 90% since August,” Governor DeSantis said. “In addition to cases, hospitalizations have plummeted in our state. This has been accomplished by making monoclonal antibody treatments and vaccines widely available throughout our state while protecting Floridians from government overreach.”

Draconian, freedom-squashing government mandates do not stop Covid and Florida’s path is shown to be the best in dealing with the virus while allowing people to freely make their own health decisions.

These freedoms have fueled Florida’s economy by allowing businesses and consumers to go about creating a thriving marketplace.

Florida’s economy rapidly accelerated in September, growing at three times the rate of the nation’s growth. Florida gained 84,500 total jobs, marking 17 consecutive months of private-sector job growth. Importantly, Florida has also seen 11 consecutive months of labor force increases, adding 50,000 workers in just the past month. Florida’s labor force growth of 5.4% is dramatically higher than the national rate of 0.8%.

In total, Florida has gained more than one million jobs since April 2020, and September’s job creation was almost twice that of California.

“While the entire nation gained 194,000 jobs in September, Florida gained 84,500 jobs in the same month – we are outpacing the nation in job growth and job opportunities because businesses know that Florida will stand up for them,” Governor DeSantis said. “We will continue to work hard to keep Florida open, free and built for opportunity.”

Governor DeSantis was joined this week by representatives of three Florida-based businesses — Tervis, PGT Innovations, and Anna Maria Oyster Bar — to highlight the recent success of Florida’s job market and support Florida-based companies.

“Governor DeSantis has created a business environment that has enabled us to hire 115 people since June that has helped minimize the broader impact that the pandemic created, and Tervis is very fortunate to be in a state with a healthy economy,” said Rogan Donelly, President and CEO, Tervis. “Under the leadership of Governor DeSantis, Tervis was able to keep our headquarters open in order to manufacture our products, our employees were able to safely stay at work and provide for their families.”

“The pro-business atmosphere in Florida has been crucial for PGT innovations to prosper; specifically over the last 18 months, our business has benefited from low taxes from forward-thinking policies,” said Rod Hershberger, Chairman, PGT Innovations. “We’re able to stay open and continue working because of Governor DeSantis’ efforts to protect Florida jobs. This is the best place to work from a tax perspective and from the leadership that we have, and we intend to stay here for a long time.”

“Everybody in our industry feels we’ve got a governor that’s got our back, that’s working with us, that’s working to help us,” said John Horne, President & Owner, Anna Maria Oyster Bar.

These three represent the sentiments of thousands of thriving and grateful Florida businesses.

Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/22/floridas-september-job-growth-rate-is-three-times-faster-than-the-nation/

Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/25/governor-ron-desantis-highlights-florida-leading-the-nations-job-growth/

Read more: https://news.yahoo.com/florida-now-has-americas-lowest-covid-rate-does-ron-de-santis-deserve-credit-090013615.html

 

FLORIDA

Governor DeSantis and Attorney General Ashley Moody announced a lawsuit today against the Biden Administration’s order requiring employees of federal contractors to be vaccinated by December 8. The Governor promised to take legal action to stop federal overreach and is keeping that promise, making Florida the first state in the nation to hold the President accountable.

The lawsuit seeks an immediate end to the unlawful requirement that federal contractors ensure that all employees are injected.

“Just months ago Joe Biden was saying that it wouldn’t be appropriate or lawful for the federal government to mandate these COVID shots,” Governor DeSantis said. “But now we have somehow gone from 15 days to slow the spread to 3 jabs to keep your job. The federal government is exceeding their power and it is important for us to take a stand because in Florida we believe these are choices based on individual circumstances.”

“I have never seen such blatant disregard for the Constitution or the laws governing our country,” said Attorney General Moody. “President Biden does not have the authority to force millions of Americans to receive a shot, nor does he have the ability to punish Florida economically for not abiding by his authoritarian, unlawful, and unconstitutional executive order.”

The Governor and Attorney General were joined at the announcement by Floridians who are facing consequences as a result of vaccine mandates.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/28/governor-ron-desantis-announces-lawsuit-against-biden-administrations-unconstitutional-vaccine-mandates/

And here: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/florida-biden-lawsuit-covid-vaccine-mandates-federal-contractors

Watch the full press conference here: https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=337652531454633

Read the lawsuit here: https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/047123627394.pdf

 

WASHINGTON, D.C.

With Congress back in session, Val Demings radicalness is impossible to hide. She is in lock-step with the most extremist members of Congress, such as the socialist Squad, and out of touch with Floridians by supporting every penny of the full-fledged $3.5 trillion socialist spending spree.

In joining fellow radicals to push this budget, Demings is supporting 40 separate tax increases that would take $2 trillion out of Americans’ pockets. In addition to tax hikes on Florida families, the socialist spending spree paves the way for the Green New Deal, amnesty for illegal immigrants, and taxpayer-funded abortion.

Demings is trying to unseat Senator Marco Rubio, who released a great ad highlighting how radical his opponent is, voting with the Squad 94 percent of the time.

Watch the Rubio ad here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ccc2oKnGBG8

 

ICYMI

What they’re saying about Governor DeSantis calling for a Special Session

Business owners and industry leaders from around the state applauded Governor DeSantis’ call for a Special Session of the Florida Legislature last week to protect Florida employees from unconstitutional vaccine mandates and vaccine passports.

Here is what they are saying:

Ralph A. Lewis, Co-Owner of Florida’s oldest steakhouse, Okeechobee Steakhouse, said: “Without Governor DeSantis holding his ground and making decisions based on scientific facts, our loss of business would be catastrophic. From the staff of Okeechobee Steakhouse and Okeechobee Prime Meat Market, thank you, Governor DeSantis, for allowing us to keep our jobs.”

Charles Musgrove, Jr., CPA and Founder of CAPSERV360, said: “Thank you to Governor DeSantis for standing in the breach to protect our liberties. I have never been prouder to be a Floridian than over the past 18 months. Your leadership is inspirational for all Americans and an example for all political leaders whether local, state, or federal.”

Nick Sarra, Chief Operations Officer of Saltwater Restaurants, said: “Allowing customers to freely dine without mandated vaccine passports has allowed us to continue to employ hundreds of workers in our nine restaurants across Northwest Florida. Placing our employees on the front line of our customers’ medical decisions is not their responsibility as professionals in the restaurant industry. We are grateful for Governor Ron DeSantis’ strong support of restaurants and our employees.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/22/what-they-are-saying-businesses-applaud-governor-desantis-protecting-floridians-jobs-and-livelihoods/

 

Social Media Highlights

REMEMBER: @FloridaGOP and retweet and share. The Republican message must be spread around the state and you are integral to making that happen.
PAID FOR BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTY OF FLORIDA. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE.WWW.FLORIDA.GOP
 

Weekly Wrap-Up with Congressman Byron Donalds

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Weekly Wrap-Up with

Congressman Byron Donalds

October 25, 2021
 
 

This past week in Congress, instead of working to find solutions for the national labor shortage, supply chain crisis, rising inflation, or the worsening border crisis – Speaker Pelosi instead called members back to Washington, D.C. to unsuccessfully rally support for her radical agenda. 

 

Abiding by his constitutional requirement to testify in front of Congress, Attorney General Merrick Garland appeared in front of the House Judiciary Committee this past week to discuss a wide range of issues. Most notably his weaponizing of the Department of Justice (DOJ) to target concerned parents who oppose the implementation of Critical Race Theory in their child’s curriculum. Attorney General Garland weaponizing the DOJ, an agency intended to serve as a non-partisan agency to seek equality and justice under the law, being used to intimidate law-abiding parents without legal basis will not stand. Parents belong in education, not the FBI. 

 

The Hyde Amendment, an amendment that has had bipartisan support since its inception in 1976, has been cut from Biden’s budget. The Hyde Amendment prohibits federal taxpayer dollars from funding abortions. This legislation has saved over 2.5 million lives from abortion, and today’s progressive Democrat Party wants to end this lifesaving amendment. It’s time to tell the radical Democrats in DC that taxpayer dollars should never fund abortions.

 

Lastly, the crisis occurring at our southern border continues to reach new heights. During the 2021 Fiscal Year, Border Patrol agents have now apprehended 1.7 illegal immigrants. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is now warning Americans that they expect roughly 400,000 illegal border crossings during the month of October. As the severity of this crisis rapidly worsens, our President continues to take another vacation to his Delaware home. Along with his absent leadership on the border crisis, Joe Biden is also attempting to sneak in mass amnesty for up to 10 million illegal immigrants, leaving the American taxpayers with the $100 billion burden. 

 

Every day that the border remains open and vulnerable, our national security is at risk. President Biden, it’s time to Build The Wall! 

 

For a continued update on legislation out of Capitol Hill, the latest on what’s happening on the House floor, and more, keep reading! 

 

 

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Legislative Updates
 
This past week, I spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives of the radical reconciliation package that includes a $100 billion provision that provides a pathway to amnesty for 10 million illegal immigrants.

 

This provision endangers our country, further escalates the border crisis, and fails to protect our national security. Watch my full speech below:

 

 

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This past week, the House Committee on Small Business held a hearing on global supply chains amidst the national worker shortage that our economy is currently facing. In this committee hearing, I discussed the economic consequences that stem from extended federal unemployment benefits and the supply chain crisis that we are currently facing. Watch my remarks below:

 

Rep. Byron Donalds – Supply Chain Labor Shortage

 
On the House floor last week, I spoke on the very real economic dangers that will arise from Biden’s multi-trillion-dollar Build Back Better Act. Watch my full remarks below:

 

 

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In the Media
 
Last week, I had the opportunity join NBC’s Meet the Press Reports with Chuck Todd to discuss the ongoing textbook wars and the dangers of implementing Critical Race Theory in our schools.

 

Watch a segment of the feature interview below:

 

 

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On Saturday, I had the pleasure of joining ‘The Unfilteredwith Dan Bongino’ on Fox News to discuss Governor Ron DeSantis’ efforts to ban vaccine mandates in Florida, New York’s rising COVID numbers, and Biden’s ongoing border crisis.

 

Watch the interview below:

 
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Serving the hardworking men and women of Florida’s 19th Congressional District is my distinct honor and privilege. It’s time Washington works for our community’s values, and every day I will always strive to ensure your government is working for you.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Byron Donalds
Member of Congress
 

Office Locations
 
WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE
523 Cannon HOB
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-2536
NAPLES DISTRICT OFFICE
3299 Tamiami Trail East
Suite 105
Naples, FL 34112
(239) 252-6225
LEE COUNTY OFFICE
1039 SE 9th Ave
Suite 308
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 599-6033

 

RPOF Newsletter – Joe Gruters -Chairman’s Message

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Chairman’s Message

SPECIAL SESSION

Governor DeSantis calls for quick legislative action to block vaccine mandates

Governor DeSantis, Attorney General Ashley Moody, Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, and Floridians threatened with job loss due to vaccine mandates stood together today as the Governor called a Special Session of the Florida Legislature to provide protections for employees.

“Your right to earn a living should not be contingent upon COVID shots,” Governor DeSantis said. “When the vaccines first came out, we worked very hard to provide them, particularly to our elderly, but we said from day one: we will make it available for all, but we will mandate it on none because ultimately we want individuals to make the determinations about what is right for them. I want a state in which people are able to maintain their livelihoods, earn a living, and provide for their families. And if the federal government or big corporations are hurting people, then we have a responsibility to step up and lead.”

During this Special Session, Governor DeSantis is asking the Florida Legislature to provide protections for employees facing termination because of discriminatory vaccine mandates and to make clear that government entities, including school districts, may not fire any employee based on vaccine status. Employers’ broad liability protections should also be reevaluated if they harm their employees through vaccine mandates.

Further, the Governor is asking the Florida Legislature to provide greater protections to parents to manage the health care decisions of their children, including the freedom to opt their children out of mask mandates. According to Florida Department of Health data over the last twelve to fourteen months, COVID-19 infection data from Florida counties reflects no meaningful difference between counties with parent opt-outs for mask requirements.

There is strong support for these freedom-protecting steps in Florida leadership.

Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez: “Mandates have no place in the free state of Florida.”

Attorney General Moody: “We will always fight illegal government actions that negatively impact first responders, America’s workers, and public safety.”

Dr. Joseph Ladapo: “Condemning Americans to financial instability is detrimental to the well-being of this country and to public health.”

 

Florida Ports helping break supply chain logjam 

Governor DeSantis is making it clear that Florida Seaports have the available capacity to help unclog the supply chain in America and meet holiday demand, while other seaports across the country, particularly in California, are struggling to keep up.

At an event with the Governor, Jaxport officials announced this week that they will be offering incentives to any company that chooses to bring its business to the port, freeing up backlogs at other ports while ensuring Americans are able to receive the goods they order.

“Year after year we continue to invest in our seaports, in infrastructure and in workforce education to make sure our supply chain is resilient,” Governor DeSantis said. “I’m especially proud of Florida’s seaports. They are crown jewels in our state.”

While California is just now opening their ports 24/7, that is the norm in Florida.

“While other U.S. ports are just now announcing around-the-clock operations, in Florida many of our ports are used to serving Florida farmers, families and businesses with 24-hour operations,” Governor DeSantis during a press conference at Jaxport. “As the rest of the nation faces rampant inflation and businesses stare down unprecedented supply chain problems, our message is this: Florida is here, we have capacity, we have incentive packages to help businesses who want to move here and we are going to make sure Americans get their Christmas Gifts this season.”

The Governor pointed out that at least one European container ship supplier has chosen Jaxport for its U.S. unloading destination bringing an extra 1,000 shipping containers a week through the port, highlighting an incentive package aimed at gaining more customers to the state.

The Governor also said that Port Everglades unloaded nearly 7,000 containers from a ship this past weekend, and a second ship from India is coming to the port with more than 9,000 containers.

“We in Florida have the ability to help alleviate the logjams and help ameliorate the problems with the supply chain,” the Governor said. “Part of it is because we’ve long been committed to reliable, modern and accessible port facilities.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/19/governor-ron-desantis-floridas-seaports-are-open-and-ready-to-meet-holiday-demands/

And here: https://www.orlandosentinel.com/politics/os-ne-desantis-press-conference–20211019-bywe53a6jrfxtnb2e7f3vt2cru-story.html

 

 

Fortifying parents rights

Governor DeSantis stood with parents who were targeted in a recent memo from U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland that attempted to silence them for speaking out to protect their children, saying that Florida would further fortify their parents rights.

Garland’s memo followed a letter from the National School Board Association to President Biden, which likened parents who oppose the masking of kindergartners and teaching critical race theory in public schools to “domestic terrorists.” Revealing the divisiveness of this, the Florida School Board Association fired off an opposing response to the NSBA, urging the organization to acknowledge their request is federal overreach. The state intends to do more.

“The Federal Government would have you believe that parents who care about their children’s upbringing are a menace to society. In Florida we won’t allow it,” Governor DeSantis said. “Debate is welcome in the state of Florida and should be welcome anywhere in the United States. If that debate turns into anything that’s not peaceful, then we have the best law enforcement in the nation to handle it.”

Punctuating the point, the Governor was joined by members of local law enforcement and state attorneys who are capable of assessing threats in their community without meddling by politicized federal bureaucrats.

“We don’t need the federal government investigating and intimidating parents in an attempt to squelch dissent. Today, I was proud to support the parents who won’t be silenced by the Biden Administration’s threats,” the Governor said.

Senator Debbie Mayfield added: “Our children do not belong to the federal government nor to the school boards, they belong to their parents. Parents have every right to be involved in their child’s education and should not be silenced by the federal government. I want to thank Governor DeSantis for continuing to fight for Florida’s parents and children.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/20/governor-desantis-stands-with-parents-against-biden-administrations-attempt-to-silence-free-speech-through-intimidation/

Read the FSBA’s letter here: https://spacecoastdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/FSBA-Letter-Response-to-NSBA-Letter-to-President.pdf

 

Our Fighting First Lady

First Lady Casey DeSantis joined Governor Ron DeSantis to deliver surprise remarks at the Hernando County Lincoln-Reagan Day Dinner on Saturday night, vowing “to never ever, ever give up the fight, ever.”

“I just want to say God bless you and thank you,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “There’s a lot that we can be upset about, that we can be sad about: the direction of our country, the future of our nation, our families, our communities, our safety, our children, their education, their futures, our health, and our wellbeing. But I’ll tell you one thing that’s for sure, I’m sure as hell not giving up,” she said. “When you know in your heart what is right, never ever, ever give up the fight, ever,” she said.

Governor DeSantis highlighted the strength and determination his wife has shown during this difficult time. “Probably the most important person that has stood by me is our wonderful First Lady,” said Governor DeSantis. “I trust in the Lord. I know how tough she is.”

Watch the video of her here: https://twitter.com/RonDeSantisFL/status/1450097460781756417

Protecting Floridians’ jobs

Instead of changing course to stop the crisis of mass illegal immigration occurring at the Southwest border, the Biden Administration has doubled down to further weaken immigration enforcement. A memo issued last week by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas directed immigration authorities to stop deploying worksite operations that enforce illegal immigrant employment laws, effectively greenlighting American employers to hire illegal aliens.

As usual, it will be up to states to enforce the law.

“This latest action by DHS should come as no surprise given that mass illegal immigration is this administration’s policy, but yet again, Florida will fill the chasm left by the Biden Administration’s refusal to enforce the law,” Governor DeSantis said. “State and federal law explicitly prohibit the employment of illegal aliens. In Florida, we will enforce the law, and we will protect the jobs and wages of Florida’s workers.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/15/governor-ron-desantis-to-biden-administration-do-your-job-enforce-the-law-stop-incentivizing-illegal-immigration/

 

Investing in Florida infrastructure

Governor DeSantis announced a $6 million infrastructure grant to Sumter County to help complete a one-and-a-half-mile road expansion that serves a 300-acre industrial park. The road expansion will support high-demand fields like manufacturing and construction, creating nearly 7,000 jobs and adding an estimated $336 million in additional income for Sumter County residents.

Governor DeSantis made this announcement as part of a multi-week tour of the state highlighting job growth, workforce training initiatives, and infrastructure investments in small and rural communities. “Infrastructure projects are vital for the growth and development of new business in the State of Florida,” Governor DeSantis said.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/18/governor-ron-desantis-announces-6-million-infrastructure-investment-for-sumter-county/

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Governor DeSantis announced a $6.1 million infrastructure grant to Hernando County for the development of an 18-acre site where Pasco Hernando State College and Suncoast Technical Education Center will build additional campuses and provide new workforce training programs for residents.

The training offered at the new campuses will focus on skills in targeted industries, including manufacturing, professional services, aviation, and medical and diagnostic laboratories, which will help create job opportunities for residents of small and rural communities.

Governor DeSantis made the announcement at American Aviation, a local company that has supported the project and will serve a pivotal role in providing training for students who want to pursue aviation. “The more that we invest in workforce education, the more we see companies moving to our state because they know they will have access to a talent pool unlike any other state in the nation,” the Governor said.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/18/governor-ron-desantis-announces-6-1-million-to-support-workforce-education-in-hernando-county/

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Governor DeSantis announced a $1.69 million infrastructure grant to the City of North Port for the installation of water and wastewater infrastructure across 500 acres at the Panacea Activity Center. The City of North Port represents 20 percent of Sarasota County’s growth over the past 10 years, but 90 percent of the workforce commute to work outside the city’s borders.

The City of North Port is matching the state’s investment, resulting in a project that is estimated to create as many as 9,700 new, permanent jobs to support the area’s self-sufficiency. This announcement was the final stop on Governor DeSantis’ weeklong tour announcing investments in small and rural communities.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/15/governor-ron-desantis-announces-1-69-million-to-the-city-of-north-port-to-invest-in-infrastructure-and-create-local-job-opportunities/

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Governor DeSantis announced a $2.8 million infrastructure grant to Northwest Florida State College to fund a new diesel mechanic technician training program. Diesel mechanics are in-demand both nationally and in Florida.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for diesel service technicians and mechanics is expected to increase by 8% over the next 10 years, and in Walton and Okaloosa counties, current projections show an 18% increase in demand for transit technicians over the next five years. “To support job growth in our state, we are focused on not only investing in infrastructure, but also supporting workforce training programs like the great ones here at Northwest Florida State College,” Governor DeSantis said.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/14/governor-ron-desantis-announces-2-8-million-award-to-northwest-florida-state-college-through-the-florida-job-growth-grant-fund/

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Governor DeSantis announced a $5.8 million infrastructure grant to Collier County Public Schools to open iTECH Glades Technical College in Moore Haven, a new location of Immokalee Technical College. The new iTECH Glades campus in Moore Haven will serve an area that does not have any post-secondary training programs within 30 miles.

The $5.8 million award will cover five years of startup costs and 12 career training programs. Workforce training will be offered in high-demand fields such as HVAC, diesel systems, accounting, nursing, welding and healthcare, and will be available to Floridians in Glades, Hendry, Highlands, Okeechobee and Collier counties.

“This new campus will provide the area with access to workforce education that actually helps Floridians find high-paying jobs without being saddled by debt,” Governor DeSantis said. “By investing in projects that make a meaningful difference to Florida’s workforce, we have been able to keep our economy growing month-after-month, and we are continuing to build an even stronger industrial base in our state.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/10/15/governor-ron-desantis-announces-more-than-5-8-million-to-provide-workforce-education-opportunities-in-rural-communities/

 

ICYMI

Val Demings radicalness is showing. Congress is back in session and the progressives will fight to keep spending trillions of dollars we don’t have on an America-changing liberal wishlist. And Val Demings is right there with the most radical members of Congress, such as the socialist Squad, supporting every penny of the full-fledged $3.5 trillion socialist spending spree. She is wildly out of touch with Floridians.

In joining fellow radical progressives to push this budget, Demings has indicated her support for forty separate tax increases, totaling an eye-popping $2 trillion to be taken out of Americans’ pockets.

Senator Marco Rubio, who Demings is trying to unseat, released a great ad highlighting how radical his opponent is. The video shows how closely aligned Demings is with the socialist squad of Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rashida Tlaib, and Ayanna Pressley and her willingness to vote with the squad 94 percent of the time. You can watch the ad here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0zuqqrSoiE

In addition to tax hikes on Florida families, the socialist spending spree paves the way for the Green New Deal, amnesty for illegal immigrants, and taxpayer-funded abortion.

Read more here: https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2021/08/24/marco-rubio-releases-video-slamming-val-demings-alignment-with-socialists/

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Senator Marco Rubio responded to the Biden Administration’s proposed woke Department of Labor regulation that would allow fund managers to consider “climate-change related factors” and “progress on workforce diversity [and] inclusion” when investing the savings of fund beneficiaries under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).

“Following the lead of Wall Street and corporate America, President Joe Biden wants the investment of workers’ and retirees’ hard-earned savings to advance progressive, woke social policies instead of their best interests,” Rubio said. “This is the latest example of how the political left works. They want to remake the entire country to comply with the latest woke agenda. And with this rule, the political left’s allies on Wall Street and corporate America will be free to do it with no recourse for the workers and retirees harmed by it.”

Read Senator Rubio’s full statement here:https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=30E556A9-BF2B-462A-B8D1-116FD94ED00A

Connected to this, Rubio previously filed the Mind Your Own Business Act earlier this year, which would “require corporate directors to prove their ‘woke’ corporate actions were in their shareholders’ best interest in order to avoid liability for breach of fiduciary duty in shareholder litigation over corporate actions relating to certain social policies. If they really believe that being woke is good for business, they should have to say so — and prove it — under oath in court,” Rubio said.

Read more here: https://www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=30E556A9-BF2B-462A-B8D1-116FD94ED00A

 

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Legislative Update – October 17, 2021

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The Melo Minute – October 10, 2021

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News and updates you don’t want to miss.
The Melo Minute

 

October 10, 2021 – Happy National Fire Prevention Week!
Reserving Our Resources 
Any member of our community could say water is the staple resource in Southwest Florida. However, caring for and utilizing our water is a delicate process. This week I had the pleasure of getting a firsthand experience on one of the many ways we do this. The Caloosahatchee River West Basin Storage Reservoir (C-43) is an active water management project in Hendry County that will finish by the end of 2023! As a fellow Floridian, Representative, and member of the Environment, Agriculture & Flooding Subcommittee, I am dedicated to ensuring the preservation and vitalization of our natural resources.

 

What this Basin will provide

 

Maintenance of salinity levels and the locally allocated agricultural water

Help with the timing and quantity of freshwater flow going into the Caloosahatchee Estuary

12 Miles of Versatile Trails for Walking, Biking, and Horseback Riding

Public Parking & Restrooms

Equestrian Area with Parking, Paddock, and Wash

Canoe & Kayak Launch Area

Fishing by Boat & Bank

Informational Kiosks

 

Huge thank you to Phil Flood and his team with South Florida Water Management for giving us an amazing and informative tour of the C-43 Reservoir project! It was impressive to see all the progress made and to receive an update on the construction still ahead.
Legislative Updates
On Tuesday,

 

I had the pleasure of spending some quality time with Senator Ray Rodrigues and Representatives Spencer Roach and Jenna Persons-Mulika at the Chamber of Southwest Florida Pre-Legislative Session Luncheon to discuss some of our priorities for Session 2022. As always, it was a spirited event with all attendance enjoying the opportunity to speak directly with their elected officials.
On Thursday,

 

we were back at it again with the Florida Outdoor Advertising Association Legislative Panel. This time Representatives Bob Rommel, Persons-Mulika, and I spoke to the FOAA convention about future bills that may impact their industries and how we continue to fight to protect business owners and private individuals alike from intrusive big-government policies in Tallahassee.
What We’re Reading

 

China-US spot freight rates plunge

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fresh Plaza
Ban on negotiating Medicare drug prices under pressure

 

 

 

 

 

Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar

AP News
Save the manatees: Researchers seeking ways to restore, enhance warm water habitats in Florida

 

 

 

Karl Schneider

Naples Daily News
The Song of the Week

 

This week’s Song of the Week is

“Seminole Wind” by John Anderson

 

After touring the C-43 Reservoir Project, Team Melo was reminded how much South Florida has changed in such a relatively small amount of time. While we can’t completely undo the environmental mistakes of the past, we can protect what we have left and allow that “Seminole Wind” to continue blowing through the sea of grass we know as the awe-inspiring Everglades.

 

Have a suggestion for the next Song of the Week? Let us know!
Connect with Me!

 

Social Media

 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! This Survivor is rockin’ the pink!

 

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:

 

HDIST080@myfloridahouse.gov
Representative Lauren Melo

Florida House District 80 
Contact Us
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Florida House District 80 | 3299 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, FL 34112
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Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review

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This week, following President Biden’s proposal for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to monitor every financial transaction made by Americans of $600 or more, Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor in support of his and Senator Tommy Tuberville’s bill to protect Americans’ financial privacy. Senators Scott and Tuberville’s attempt to pass their legislation stopping Biden’s proposal to weaponize the IRS for Communist China-style totalitarian surveillance was blocked by Senate Democrats.

Nearly 20,000 Floridians have shared their disgust for President Biden’s insane IRS overreach with Senator Scott in recent weeks. Senator Scott encourages all Floridians to share their thoughts on this and other issues on our website HERE.

See more in the video HERE or below.

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

Sen. Rick Scott: Joe Biden is Pushing America Off a Cliff

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ September Employment Situation Summary noting that U.S. job growth fell to its slowest pace of Joe Biden’s presidency.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Joe Biden and Democrats in Washington are pushing America off a cliff. Up in Washington, the inmates are running the asylum. Look at what Joe Biden is doing. We have 11 MILLION job openings in this country… there’s no excuse for the job numbers we are seeing from this administration outside of pure stupidity. Is anyone surprised that when you spend months paying able bodied adults more to stay home than go back to work that folks aren’t getting back on the job? NO. Is anyone shocked that when Biden pushes billions and billions of ‘free’ money to able-bodied adults that folks aren’t getting back to work? NO. Is anyone surprised that when the Biden administration chooses woke, left-wing radicals to run the government that Americans are scared to death of what the government is going to do to their taxes and constitutional rights? Of course not. Everything Joe Biden has done has led to more fear, less growth and fewer jobs. Joe Biden’s socialist agenda is killing the American Dream.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott on the Senate Floor: Struggling Families & Businesses Can’t Afford Biden’s Unconstitutional Mandates and Systemic Socialism

Senator Rick Scott spoke on the Senate floor on how President Joe Biden’s overreaching and unconstitutional vaccine mandates for private companies trample on the personal freedoms of Americans and will cause massive shortages throughout American supply chains, further fueling Biden’s inflation crisis and higher prices on everyday goods for families already struggling to keep food on their tables.

Senator Scott is calling on President Biden to take immediate action to ensure the United States’ supply chains won’t completely crumble under his failed policies and mandates, and is urging the President to have Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo testify to the Senate Commerce Committee on this issue.

Senator Rick Scott said, “President Biden and the Democrats’ radical agenda of systemic socialism is crushing American families and businesses. It’s clear that Democrats want to control your life and their latest vaccine mandate on private companies is indisputable proof of that. Biden’s mandate forces people into an impossible ultimatum to comply, quit or be fired. This unconstitutional mandate tramples on the personal freedoms of Americans, will push more workers out of the workforce, devastate our economy with product and service shortages that cripple supply chains and throw America into a stagflation crisis not seen since the 1970’s.

“When I think about the impact of burdensome government regulations, I think about my dad who was a truck driver. Biden’s new mandate would not only put an insane burden on truck drivers and the trucking industry, but also fuel inflation hurting poor families, like mine growing up, who are already struggling to put food on the table with the massive inflation caused by Washington’s reckless spending. Americans can’t afford this. We need more jobs, not less; lower prices on everyday goods, not higher. The role of government is to inform, not mandate. Biden’s systemic socialism has to stop.” See more in the video HERE or below.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Biden: Stop the Secrecy About Illegal Immigrants & Secure the Border

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Ted Cruz and his colleagues to discuss President Biden’s failed policies of amnesty and open borders that have fueled a massive humanitarian and national security crisis on the United States’ southern border. Senator Scott continues to demand that President Biden reverse his disastrous policies, inform law enforcement and local governments of where his administration is sending illegal immigrants within the United States and secure the southern border. Under President Biden’s watch, more than 1.2 million migrants have illegally crossed the border this year. Last week, news reports showed the Biden administration is preparing for upwards of 400,000 illegal border crossings in October. See more in the video HERE or below.

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Sen. Rick Scott Leads Colleagues to Introduce Resolution Establishing a Bipartisan Joint Afghanistan Investigation Committee

Senator Rick Scott was joined by Senators Kevin Cramer, Thom Tillis, Joni Ernst, Steve Daines, Mike Braun and Josh Hawley to introduce a resolution establishing a bipartisan Joint Select Committee on Afghanistan, composed of members of the House and Senate, to conduct a full investigation into President Biden’s failed and tragic withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan that stranded hundreds of Americans behind enemy lines, left billions of dollars in U.S. military equipment in the hands of terrorists and took the lives of 13 brave U.S. service members. This joint select committee would follow the precedent set in the aftermath of the Iran-Contra affair. For over a month, Senator Scott has been calling on House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to launch a bicameral, bipartisan investigation, but they have been silent.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Last month, President Biden’s misguided and dangerous decisions in his botched withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan led to the United States most stunning, unforced and humiliating defeat in decades. Due to President Biden’s carelessness and failed leadership, 13 U.S. service members were lost, billions of dollars of U.S. military equipment was left for the Taliban, hundreds of American citizens were stranded behind enemy lines and Afghanistan has been returned to the Taliban and now rests in the hands of the same terrorist-coddling extremists who ruled it on September 11, 2001. The world is now a more dangerous place and the American people are rightfully demanding answers. For over a month, I have called on Leader Schumer and Speaker Pelosi to launch a bipartisan and bicameral investigation into the Biden administration’s failed withdrawal of American forces. They’ve been shamefully silent. That’s why today, I am introducing a resolution to establish a bipartisan and bicameral Joint Select Committee on Afghanistan to conduct a full investigation and compile a joint report on the United States tragically failed withdrawal from Afghanistan. It’s time to put partisan politics aside and demand accountability.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: As Border Crisis Skyrockets, Biden Administration Putting Florida Families in Harm’s Way

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to continue its failed open border policies. Last week, DHS announced plans to once again terminate the secure and safe remain-in-Mexico policies implemented under the Trump administration despite a federal court order requiring the agency to enforce these protocols.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Joe Biden has spent every day of his presidency pointing fingers and refusing to take responsibility for the crisis he has created at the southern border. Month after month we are seeing illegal crossings at the border skyrocket, overwhelming border patrol, and allowing dangerous cartels to pour drugs into the United States and run horrific human trafficking rings that are victimizing innocent women and children. I heard about these devastating cartel-driven crimes directly from our brave border patrol agents when I visited the southern border in Arizona earlier this year. And we have all seen the heartbreaking images of young children being stranded in the desert and left for dead but for the lifesaving actions of our border patrol and law enforcement on the ground.

“But this isn’t just an issue in Arizona and Texas. Every state is a border state. I have been hearing from sheriffs across Florida about how this crisis is hurting our families. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data, there has been over double the amount of fentanyl smuggled across our border compared to all of last year – killing thousands of Americans – and the year isn’t even over. Law enforcement in Florida is seeing more and more dangerous drugs in our communities hurting families because of the savage cartels having free reign at the border. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have taken one failed step after another to dismantle the proven border and national security policy we have set in place to protect this country. It must stop now. It’s time for Biden to ditch his failed policies of open borders and amnesty and secure the border now.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: We Must Reform the Broken National Flood Insurance Program

Senator Rick Scott announced the introduction 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 $19 billion in premiums, but only collected approximately $5.6 billion in claims reimbursements, which equates to a nearly 4 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 Rick Scott said, “The National Flood Insurance Program 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. When we increase availability and competition in the market, more homeowners get insured and taxpayers and homeowners are better off. If the private sector can offer families better coverage, better service and a better price, why would we deny them of that? 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. 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 Joins Bipartisan Call to Expand Sanctions on Nicaragua to Include Daniel Ortega Himself

Senator Rick Scott joined Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Bob Menendez and colleagues to introduce a bipartisan letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken to draw attention to the Daniel Ortega regime’s harassment and jailing of more than 150 opposition leaders, including presidential candidates, and its ongoing authoritarian crackdown in advance of the country’s November 2021 presidential election. In a bipartisan letter addressed to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the senators call for increased efforts to secure the immediate release of political prisoners targeted by Ortega, urging the Biden administration to expand its use of sanctions authorities to designate Ortega himself as well as his regime’s top military brass.

Senator Scott continues to fight for the people trapped under his oppressive regime—calling out the violence, instability and chaos in Latin America that is directly tied to the illegitimate tyrants like Ortega, Maduro, and Castro, who continue to oppress their people. Read more from the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Marco Rubio, Florida Congressional Delegation Urging President Biden to Defend Florida Farmers

Senator Rick Scott, member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, joined Senator Marco Rubio along with members of the Florida congressional delegation in a letter to president Biden urging his administration to protect Florida’s seasonal fruit and vegetable growers from unfair trade competition. Read more from Senator Rubio’s office HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Cornyn and Colleagues in Letter to Sec. Mayorkas Demanding Answers on the Release of Haitian Migrants into the U.S.

Senator Rick Scott, a member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, joined Senator Cornyn and 36 of their Republican colleagues demanding answers from Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas regarding the release of thousands of Haitian migrants into the United States. Senator Scott has repeatedly pushed the Biden administration to end its failed policies of amnesty and open borders which are fueling a massive humanitarian and national security crisis on the southern border. Read more from Senator Cornyn’s office HERE.

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

This week, without any Republican support, Democrats voted to raise the debt ceiling to nearly $29 TRILLION while not taking any action to care for Social Security and Medicare. That means Democrats added $480 BILLION to the national debt simply to further fund their radical agenda for just 46 days until December 3, 2021. Senator Scott has been clear that he will not vote to raise the debt ceiling and allow for more reckless government spending that will further fuel Biden’s raging inflation crisis. Senator Scott continues to urge his colleagues to pass his Federal Debt Emergency Control Act and Full Faith and Credit Act. His legislation will rein in Washington’s reckless spending and force Congress to be accountable to American taxpayers and get its house in order. Read more HERE.
Sen. Rick Scott in Fox Business: How to Stop Dems’ Spending, Debt Mismanagement from Destroying our Financial Security

Senator Rick Scott wrote an op-ed for Fox Business on how Congress must reject the failed ideas of Democrats’ socialist agenda, including their reckless $5.5 trillion liberal wish list, that will lead to dire economic consequences and the death of American credit. Senator Scott is fighting for real reform like his Federal Debt Emergency Control Act and the Full Faith and Credit Act to rein in Washington’s spending and help the nation reverse course, rebuild its accountability to the American people and secure a stronger and more certain tomorrow for our children and grandchildren.

In the op-ed, Senator Rick Scott wrote, “For more than half a century, the United States has enjoyed the power of being a global financial superpower and the dollar being held as the world’s reserve currency. But reckless government spending and gross mismanagement of federal debt threatens the eminent financial standing of our republic.

Today, the United States’ federal debt is nearly $29 trillion and barreling closer to $30 trillion every day. With interest rates at historic lows, the U.S. pays almost $350 billion each year in interest on our debt. That’s $350 billion that provides zero return for taxpayers.

Fast forward to 2031. The federal debt has climbed to more than $45 trillion and interest rates have returned to the 50-year average of 6.2%. Under this terrifying but very possible scenario, the annual interest owed on federal debt would grow to $2.8 trillion. This is where things begin to unravel.

If we allow our nation to get anywhere near this point, we will see a full meltdown of American financial security and credit. Unsustainable government spending would fuel a devastating inflation crisis that would crush working families and severely devalue the dollar. America would soon be unable to pay its bills, critical government programs would face brutal cuts or be entirely eliminated and the U.S. would be forced to default on its debt.

This is what would happen if Democrats got their way by passing a reckless $5.5 trillion tax and spending spree.

…

The American people are smart. They will never vote for politicians that will raise their taxes enough to bailout Congress from its decades of reckless spending and dysfunction – and they shouldn’t. 

So, it must be said, under total Democrat control in Washington, Americans at and nearing retirement beware. The Democrats’ insane debt growth will have disastrous effects on once safe investments, like long-term treasuries. That’s the consequence of Democrat control.

…

While my Republican colleagues and I have taken a stand against raising the debt ceiling without more measures of fiscal responsibility, Congress must pass substantial reform and commit to a true shift in priorities to avoid the coming death of American credit and secure a strong and stable financial future for our nation. 

…

It can be done. I know because I led similar efforts to restore financial stability to my state when I was Governor of Florida. Over eight years, we paid down a third of the state debt, cut taxes 100 times, slashed 5,000 burdensome regulations and saw Florida business boom creating more than 1.7 million new jobs. The Democrats said the sky was falling. It wasn’t. Our playbook worked in Florida and it will work across the nation.”

Read the full op-ed in Fox Business HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott in Fox Business: Biden’s Vaccine Mandate Will Push Workers out of the Workforce, Cripple Supply Chain

Senator Rick Scott wrote an op-ed for Fox Business on how the Biden administration’s latest vaccine mandate for private companies will further cause workforce shortages, continue to cripple supply chains, and worsen the ongoing inflation crisis that is to blame for the increase of prices on everyday goods. In Washington, Senator Scott continues to fight for the rights of every American family. His Prevent Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandates for Interstate Commerce Act will protect the privacy of Americans’ personal health information and prevent the government from dictating what is best for Americans and their families in order to go to work.

In the op-ed, Senator Rick Scott wrote, “Biden’s latest vaccine mandate for private companies tramples on the personal freedoms of Americans, will push more workers out of the workforce, devastate our economy with product and service shortages that cripple supply chains and throw America into a stagflation crisis not seen since the 1970’s. 

By forcing some working Americans to choose between keeping their jobs, or doing what they believe is best for their health, Biden’s mandate hurts the very people they claim it will help – workers, low-income Americans and seniors on a fixed income who will all either be hit with higher unemployment, higher prices or a shortage of available goods. 

…

When I think about the impact of burdensome government regulations, I think about my dad. My adopted father was a truck driver. Anyone who has driven trucks or been close to someone in that line of work knows how demanding the job can be. It’s hard work and it’s one of the most critical jobs in our country.

Truck drivers are like the offensive linemen of America’s supply chain – often overlooked but absolutely essential to get things moving. There is already a driver shortage in this country and we can’t afford to lose any more.

…

In a weak economy where simply keeping shelves stocked is an everyday challenge, losing workers in almost any critical industry will have catastrophic impacts across our supply chains and drive prices higher.

We can never forget that as inflation worsens and prices surge higher, it’s the poorest Americans, like my family growing up and seniors on fixed income, that are hurt the most. Right now, we already have families across America having to make hard choices. There’s single moms wondering if they can put an extra few gallons of gas in the car and still afford to put dinner on the table this week. Or, a mom like mine who took on odd jobs to make ends meet and watched the smallest price changes at the grocery store to make sure we could still get by.

If President Biden actually talked with small and mid-size employers and hardworking families, like I have, he’d quickly learn that massive federal mandates aren’t the solution to any of our problems. I got the vaccine and I encourage others to talk with their doctor and consider doing the same. But getting the vaccine is a choice everyone gets to make for themselves.

…

Restoring our supply chains is critical to getting the American economy rolling again and it’s time for President Biden to acknowledge massive unconstitutional mandates on private companies won’t do anything but hurt American business and throw gasoline on the already raging inflation crisis he has created.”

Read the full op-ed in Fox Business HERE.

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Fox Business: Sen. Rick Scott: Dems’ spending, inflation ‘hurting poor families’

The Hill: Senate GOP seeks bipartisan panel to investigate Afghanistan withdrawal

Real Clear Politics: Sen. Rick Scott: The Democrats Are Hurting Poor People With Inflation, Price Increases

Breitbart: Republican Senators Introduce Bill Establishing Bipartisan Select Committee to Investigate Afghanistan Withdrawal

Politico: GOP senators target Pentagon nominee over ‘offensive’ tweets

Washington Examiner: Senate Republicans call for select committee to probe Afghanistan withdrawal

Breitbart: GOP Accuses AG Garland of ‘Weaponizing’ DOJ, FBI to Intimidate Anti-CRT Parents — ‘This is Totalitarianism’

CNS News: Sen. Scott: ‘No, Of Course Not,’ Facebook Should Not Be Allowed to Restrict Speech

Newsmax: Senate Republicans Support US Military Presence in Taiwan

WFLA Radio: Whistleblower tells Rick Scott she backs raising age to access social media

Tallahassee Democrat: Sens. Rubio, Scott sign on to naming Tallahassee federal courthouse for Judge Hatchett

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Wants a Committee to Investigate Withdrawal of U.S. Forces From Afghanistan

Florida Daily: Rick Scott: Why Are Microsoft, LinkedIn Helping Chinese Regime Target Journalists?

Florida Daily: Rick Scott, Dan Crenshaw Introduce Bill to Stop Feds From Imposing Vaccine Passports for Interstate Commerce

Actualidad 1040AM: EXCLUSIVA | Rick Scott: “El pueblo americano está cansado de la agenda de Biden”
Sen. Rick Scott Releases “Un cafecito con Tony Morejon” in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month

As part of his “Un cafecito con” video series in recognition and celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Senator Rick Scott released “Un cafecito con Tony Morejon.” Tony Morejon is a Cuban-American leader who served as the Community Affairs Liaison for the Hillsborough County Government. He has dedicated his life to representing the Hispanic community and being a leading voice for Hispanic families in Hillsborough County and across the state. Throughout the month, Senator Scott is sitting down with Hispanic leaders from across Florida to highlight their incredible stories and recognize the countless contributions of the Hispanic community to the great state of Florida and to our country. See Senator Scott’s original video HERE. See “Un cafecito con Tony Morejon” in the video HERE or below or in Spanish HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Releases “Un cafecito con Aníbal Albertorio” in Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month

As part of his “Un cafecito con” video series in recognition and celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Senator Rick Scott released “Un cafecito con Aníbal Albertorio.” Command Sergeant Major Aníbal Albertorio, 91 years young, served proudly as a member of the 65th Infantry Regiment, also known as The Borinqueneers. Command Sergeant Major Albertorio has dedicated his life to serving America and representing the Hispanic and Puerto Rican community through his admirable and courageous actions. See “Un cafecito con Aníbal Albertorio” in the video HERE or below or in Spanish HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Releases “Un cafecito con Raul Castro Rodríguez” in Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month

As part of his “Un cafecito con” video series in recognition and celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Senator Rick Scott released “Un cafecito con Raul Castro Rodríguez.” Raul Castro Rodríguez is a Spaniard international speaker specializing in business management who has traveled throughout Latin America supporting business growth and development. Now based in Florida, he is the host of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Tampa Bay’s podcast “Entrepreneurial Entrepreneur” and has become a staple in business entrepreneurship in the Hispanic Community. See “Un cafecito con Raul Castro Rodríguez” in the video HERE or below, or in Spanish HERE.

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Senator Scott has received his COVID-19 vaccine, and he encourages everyone consider doing the same. The COVID-19 vaccine works and is critical to ending the pandemic and saving lives.

For more information and to find out where you can get the shot, visit floridahealthcovid19.gov/vaccines.

TALLAHASSEE
111 N. Adams Street, Suite 208
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Phone: (850) 942-8415		 WEST PALM BEACH 
415 Clematis Street, Suite 201
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 514-0189		 TAMPA
801 North Florida Avenue, Suite 421
Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 225-7040
KISSIMMEE 
1 Courthouse Square, Suite 300
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Phone: (407) 586-7879		 PENSACOLA 
221 Palafox Place, Suite 420
Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: (850) 760-5151		 MIAMI 
901 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 505
Miami, FL 33134
Phone: (786) 501-7141
NAPLES
3299 Tamiami Trail East, #106
Naples, FL 34112
Phone: (239) 231-7890		 JACKSONVILLE
400 West Bay Street, Suite 289
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 479-7227		 ORLANDO
225 East Robinson Street, Suite 410
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 872-7161
  WASHINGTON, D.C.
716 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-5274		  
Fax: (202) 228-4535

Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review

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This week, Senator Rick Scott led Senators Ron Johnson, Cynthia Lummis, Roger Marshall and Mike Lee to introduce the Prevent Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandates for Interstate Commerce Act. As the Biden administration is reportedly considering enforcing vaccine mandates for businesses merely seeking to engage in interstate commerce, the Prevent Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandates for Interstate Commerce Act would protect the privacy of Americans’ personal health information and prohibit the Department of Transportation and other federal agencies from requiring proof of vaccination or the use of a vaccine passport for such activities. Representative Dan Crenshaw introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

Senator Scott went to the Senate floor to pass his bill and stop Biden’s unconstitutional vaccine mandates from hurting hardworking U.S. businesses, but Senate Democrats blocked it. See more in the video HERE or below:

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

Sen. Rick Scott to Pentagon Leaders: Why on Earth Would You Leave Afghanistan While Stranding Americans?

Senator Rick Scott questioned Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley and Commander of U.S. Central Command General Kenneth McKenzie in a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee on President Biden’s failed withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Under the ‘leadership’ of President Biden, it has become the policy of the U.S. military to abandon Americans behind enemy lines. Secretary Austin admitted as much today saying that this was Biden’s plan all along. That’s unacceptable to me, to American families, and to our allies across the world. But, of course, Biden won’t accept responsibility. President Biden has blamed everyone but himself for his botched withdrawal of Afghanistan. He’s blamed previous administrations. He’s blamed the people of Afghanistan. People in his White House are even blaming our own military. We need to be clear – President Biden is solely responsible for his tragic failure in Afghanistan. The president’s misguided decisions and flawed leadership caused the loss of 13 U.S. service members, and left American citizens, our allies and billions of dollars of equipment behind enemy lines in the hands of a terrorist organization. Today’s hearing delivered few answers and raised new questions about Biden’s lack of strategy in Afghanistan. I’ll never stop fighting to hold Biden and his administration accountable to the American people.” See Senator Scott’s first and second line of questioning HERE and HERE, or in the videos below:

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Sen. Rick Scott Calls on Colleagues to Pass No Budget, No Pay Proposal

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement ahead of the Senate’s consideration of his and Senator Mike Braun’s No Budget, No Pay proposal. This common-sense No Budget, No Pay proposal requires members of Congress to do their job and work together to pass a budget and meet appropriations bill deadlines, or forgo their own salaries until the job is done.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Americans are sick and tired of Washington’s dysfunction hurting our families, causing economic chaos and inflation with wasteful spending, and government shutdowns that leave members of our Armed Services without paychecks. Families in Florida and across America deserve better. When hardworking Floridians fail at their job, they don’t get a paycheck. Why should Congress live in an alternate reality? If Congress fails at one of its most basic duties – passing a budget – our members shouldn’t get a taxpayer-funded paycheck. Period. Our No Budget, No Pay proposal simply holds Congress accountable and to the exact same standard as the families we proudly represent. I urge all of my colleagues to support this common-sense measure.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: We Will Not Allow Vaccine Mandates to Hurt American Businesses

Senator Rick Scott was joined by Senators Ron Johnson, Cynthia Lummis, Roger Marshall and Mike Lee to introduce the Prevent Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandates for Interstate Commerce Act. As the Biden administration is reportedly considering enforcing vaccine mandates for businesses merely seeking to engage in interstate commerce, the Prevent Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandates for Interstate Commerce Act would protect the privacy of Americans’ personal health information and prohibit the Department of Transportation and other federal agencies from requiring proof of vaccination or the use of a vaccine passport for such activities. Representative Dan Crenshaw is introducing companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Senator Rick Scott said, “While American businesses are working hard to recover from the devastating impacts of COVID-19, President Biden is set on implementing more mandates, lockdowns and restrictions that are holding them back. I got the COVID-19 vaccine, and encourage everyone who feels comfortable to get it too, but government has no business pushing mandates on the American people and our hardworking businesses. It’s the government’s job to inform Americans and then let every family make the right choices that will keep themselves, their businesses and their employees safe. My Prevent Unconstitutional Vaccine Mandates for Interstate Commerce Act ensures that the Biden administration cannot require anyone to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to do business across state borders, and protects Americans’ rights and privacy.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Microsoft: Why Are You Censoring American Journalists on Behalf of Communist China?

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to Microsoft Corporation CEO Satya Nadella and LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky demanding answers after LinkedIn censored the accounts of three American journalists, Bethany Allen-Ebrahimian with Axios, Melissa Chan with VICE NEWS and freelance reporter Greg Bruno in compliance with the wishes of the Chinese Communist Party. Communist China continues to perpetrate a genocide against Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang and censor those who speak out against its human rights abuses. Microsoft and LinkedIn’s decision to sensor these journalists follows a similarly disturbing move by Kodak to remove images from its Instagram page highlighting Communist China’s atrocities and issue an apology to the Chinese Communist Party. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Demands Answers from Sec. Mayorkas on Efforts to Protect Homeland Amid Biden’s National Security Crises

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas demanding answers on the Department’s ability to protect and defend the United States following the Biden’s administration failed policies that led to a disastrous and deadly withdrawal from Afghanistan and have created a growing humanitarian and national security crisis at the southern border. Senator Scott is focused on ensuring DHS is taking all necessary steps to protect Americans and the homeland from the national security crises created by the Biden administration’s failed leadership and dangerous policies. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Risch, Colleagues to Introduce Afghanistan Counterterrorism, Oversight, and Accountability Act

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Jim Risch and 21 other colleagues to introduce the Afghanistan Counterterrorism, Oversight, and Accountability Act. The bill would sanction the Taliban and other leaders in Afghanistan for terrorism, request a review of foreign assistance to entities that support the Taliban, and establish a State Department task force to help rescue American citizens, legal permanent residents, and those with Special Immigrant Visas who were left in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan by President Biden. Read more from Senator Risch’s office HERE.

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Sens. Rick Scott, Marco Rubio Demand Information from HHS on Failure to Provide Life-Saving COVID-19 Treatments

Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio wrote a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra demanding answers after HHS restricted the availability of monoclonal antibody treatments for hospitals in Florida and other states. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Rubio, Colleagues in Introducing Bill to Reverse Biden Decision to Ration Antibody Treatments

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Rubio and colleagues in introducing the Treatment Restoration for Emergency Antibody Therapeutics (TREAT) Act which would stop the Department of Health and Human Services from restricting hospitals and healthcare facilities’ access to life-saving COVID-19 monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatments. This follows a recent decision by the Biden Administration to implement a policy that capped the amount of mAb treatments a state could receive.

Senator Rick Scott said, “As our nation works to fully recover from and end the coronavirus pandemic, we must ensure that Americans have access to all options for treatment and prevention, including the COVID-19 vaccine and proven monoclonal antibody treatments. The Biden administration’s recent decision to implement restrictions on monoclonal antibody doses — making it harder for Floridians to receive this life-saving treatment – is unacceptable and unethical. When lives are at stake, no resources should be intentionally held back by the Biden administration through dangerous political games. I’m proud to join Senator Rubio in introducing the TREAT Act to make sure Florida receives effective COVID-19 treatments. I won’t accept anything less.” Read more from Senator Rubio’s office HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Peters and Langevin Applauding Full Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Help Protect K-12 School Systems from Cyber-Attacks, Heads to President to be Signed into Law

Senator Rick Scott applauded the bipartisan final passage in the House of Representatives of his K-12 Cybersecurity Act. The bill, which puts protections in place to keep school-aged children and their institutions safe online, has already passed the Senate and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed.

Senator Rick Scott said, “We must do everything possible to protect the safety of every American student — and as we move to an increasingly digital world, this includes the safety of their personal information online. The K-12 Cybersecurity Act will ensure our schools have the resources they need to bolster cybersecurity and protect our K-12 students, educators, employees, and their families. I am proud of my colleagues in the Senate and House for coming together to pass this valuable legislation and look forward to it becoming law.” Read more from the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee HERE.

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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 following the announcement that the Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) price index increased 4.3 percent from one year ago—a clear indication that Democrats’ reckless, wasteful spending agenda is only further fueling President Biden’s raging inflation crisis.

Senator Rick Scott said, “When will this administration wake up and realize how hard they are making it for everyday Americans to make ends meet? Families are struggling to put food on the table, put gas in their cars and buy everyday goods each week. Each month we have seen prices go up hurting more and more families in Florida and across the nation. How do Democrats respond? By arguing to push the debt ceiling to unimaginable levels so they can ram through more reckless spending that will only further fuel Biden’s raging inflation crisis. I have heard from struggling families all across Florida about how they can’t afford to live the same way they did a year ago because of higher prices. As inflation continues to increase and incomes stay the same, it is our poorest families, like mine growing up, that are hurt the most and unable to keep up. It’s time for Joe Biden and Democrats in Washington to wake up, stop this dangerous spending spree and work with Republicans to get our house back in order.” Read more HERE.
El Senador Rick Scott en el Orlando Sentinel: Esto es lo que significa la crisis de la deuda de los demócratas para las familias de Florida

El Senador Rick Scott escribió un artículo de opinión para el Orlando Sentinel explicando la razón por la que los republicanos del Senado no apoyarán el aumento del límite de la deuda ni excusarán el gasto masivo de los demócratas, que ya está perjudicando a las familias al promover una crisis inflacionaria. La deuda de Estados Unidos es de casi $ 30 BILLONES. Bajo la imprudente propuesta de impuestos y gastos elaborada por el socialista Bernie Sanders, el gasto demócrata aumentaría la deuda federal en más de $ 15 BILLONES, llevándola a $ 45 BILLONES para 2031.

En el artículo de opinión, el Senador Rick Scott escribió: “En 2019, el Congreso votó a favor de suspender el límite de la deuda, dejando que el gobierno federal acumulara una deuda ilimitada durante dos años. Ahora, la suspensión del límite de la deuda ha expirado y los demócratas del Congreso están presentando esto como un punto de decisión con solo dos opciones: votar para suspender el límite de la deuda nuevamente o aumentarlo.

…

Los republicanos no lo toleraremos. A medida que el gasto demócrata se descontrola, no votaremos para rescatarlos y emitir más cheques en blanco para ahogarnos en deudas, aumentar el gasto por los intereses de los Estados Unidos y alimentar una crisis inflacionaria que ya está afectando a familias en Florida. Es hora de que los demócratas se responsabilicen por la crisis de deuda que crearon.

…

El gasto imprudente tiene consecuencias, como el aumento de la inflación y el aumento del gasto por los intereses del gobierno. Recientemente, mi oficina escuchó de una familia en Kissimmee que está sintiendo los impactos de la inflación de primera mano. Les está costando más poner la comida en la mesa y mantener su vehículo. Esa es la consecuencia de este camino irresponsable y peligroso en el que están los demócratas.

…

Con las tasas de interés en mínimos históricos, el gobierno de los EE. UU. ya está gastando casi $ 345 mil millones anuales en intereses. En lugar de financiar la infraestructura, la defensa o el medio ambiente, casi $ 345 mil millones solo están pagando intereses, lo que proporciona un rendimiento nulo a las familias estadounidenses. A medida que la deuda crece, esto solo empeora.

¿Cómo puede el Congreso justificar eso? Ninguna familia o empresa seguiría gastando más si no puede pagar las facturas que ya tiene. En el mundo real, no es la cantidad de cheques que tiene en su chequera, es cuánto dinero le queda en el banco. Pero para los demócratas del Congreso, se trata de gastar hasta que se acaben los cheques, ignorar las advertencias de sobregiro y luego pedir más.

…

Es hora de mostrar al Presidente Biden, Bernie Sanders y los liberales de extrema izquierda que la crisis de la deuda demócrata tiene consecuencias peligrosas que están desperdiciando los dólares de los impuestos ganados con tanto esfuerzo por las familias de Florida. No nos quedaremos sentados y dejaremos que destruyan nuestra nación. Seguiré luchando todos los días para poner a nuestra nación en un camino exitoso y asegurarme de que nuestras generaciones futuras tengan todas las oportunidades para vivir el sueño americano”.

Lea el artículo de opinión completo en el Orlando Sentinel AQUÍ.

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Fox News: Rick Scott rips Dems’ ‘disgusting’ spending bills: ‘They’re bankrupting this country’

Fox News: GOP Senators introduce bill to block federal agencies from requiring COVID-19 vaccination

Axios: First look: Rick Scott probes LinkedIn, Microsoft on censoring U.S. journalists in China

Fox News: Senate GOP stop Democrats from pushing to raise debt ceiling

The Federalist: Republicans Seek To Ban Biden’s Vaccine Mandate From Interstate Commerce

The Hill: Florida senators rebuke Mexican president for receiving Cuban, Venezuelan leaders

Fox Business: Florida sues Biden admin for ‘illegal’ immigration policies

Newsmax: Sen. Scott Questions LinkedIn on Censoring Journalists for China

South China Morning Post: Lawmaker asks LinkedIn, Microsoft why they censored US journalists’ accounts in China

Newsmax: Sens. Scott, Rubio Question Limits on COVID Treatment

The Hill: House approves legislation to protect K-12 schools against cyberattacks

The Epoch Times: Deep Dive (Sept. 29): Sen. Rick Scott: ‘Can’t Just Keep Spending’ on Bill Funding Congress

One America News Network: GOP Senators Draft Bill To Ban Vaccine Passport Use By Federal Agencies

WOFL: House passes bill aimed at protecting K-12 schools against cyberattacks

Florida Daily: Florida’s Senators Back GOP’s Comprehensive Afghanistan Legislation

W Radio Colombia: El Senado de Estados Unidos llega a acuerdo para evitar cierre de Gobierno

Los Angeles Times: Senadores de EEUU critican a AMLO por no haber hecho esto con Nicolás Maduro

NTN 24: Marco Rubio y Rick Scott reprochan a AMLO al no extraditar a Maduro a EE.UU.
Sen. Rick Scott Releases “Un cafecito con Eddie Hamman” in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month

As part of his “Un cafecito con” video series in recognition and celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Senator Rick Scott released “Un cafecito con Eddie Hamann.” Eddie Hamann is a Colombian-American leader and entrepreneur, who become a benchmark of the Colombian community for his success and contributions to Florida and throughout the United States. Throughout the month, Senator Scott is sitting down with Hispanic leaders from across Florida to highlight their incredible stories and recognize the countless contributions of the Hispanic community to the great state of Florida and to our country. See Senator Scott’s original video HERE. See “Un cafecito con Eddie Hamann” in the video HERE or below.

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El Senador Rick Scott lanza “Un cafecito con Eddie Hamann” en celebración del Mes de la Herencia Hispana

Como parte de su serie de videos “Un cafecito con” en reconocimiento y celebración del Mes de la Herencia Hispana, el Senador Rick Scott lanzó hoy “Un cafecito con Eddie Hamann”. Eddie Hamann es un líder y emprendedor colombo-americano, quien se convirtió en un referente de la comunidad colombiana por su éxito y contribuciones a Florida y en todo Estados Unidos. A lo largo del mes, el Senador Scott se reunirá con líderes hispanos de toda Florida para destacar sus increíbles historias y reconocer las innumerables contribuciones de la comunidad hispana al gran estado de Florida y a nuestro país. Vea el video original del Senador Scott AQUÍ. Vea “Un cafecito con Eddie Hamann” en el video AQUÍ.

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Sen. Rick Scott Announces Alexandra Ojeda as Florida State Director

Senator Rick Scott announced that Alexandra “Alex” Ojeda will serve as State Director, effective October 2021, following the departure of John Tupps.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I’m glad to welcome Alex Ojeda back on my team as State Director. She’s done an incredible job serving the people of Florida in her roles in Attorney General Ashley Moody’s office and in my Senate office, and I have no doubt she will go above and beyond to lead our hardworking team throughout the state, and help Floridians receive any federal support and information they need. I’d like to thank John Tupps for his amazing leadership and tireless work in this role and during his decade of public service. John was one of the earliest hires in my office in 2011 after I was elected as Governor of Florida, and his creativity, positive mindset and commitment to the job and serving Florida families have been a great influence and asset. He’s truly left our state offices and constituent services team in an even better place than when he started, and I look forward to seeing Alex build on these efforts and everything she accomplishes in the role.”

Alexandra Ojeda most recently served as Counsel for Public Affairs for Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody. She previously worked as Hispanic Press Secretary in the office of Senator Rick Scott. Alex was born and raised in Puerto Rico and holds an undergraduate degree in Communications and a Juris Doctor from the University of Puerto Rico where she served as a member of the Law Review. In 2008 she was awarded the Cordova & Fernos Scholarship which allowed her to intern for Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart in Washington, D.C. and experience the inner workings of the federal government. Upon graduating law school, Alex relocated to Washington D.C. where she worked for The Washington Center as Federal Relations Manager. In 2016, Alex moved to Tampa, Florida and served as Public Policy Manager for The Tampa Bay Partnership before joining Senator Rick Scott’s campaign for U.S. Senate in 2018 as Hispanic Outreach Director. Alex is a barred attorney in the State of Florida and lives in Tampa with her husband, James. Read more HERE.

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Senator Scott has received his COVID-19 vaccine, and he encourages everyone consider doing the same. The COVID-19 vaccine works and is critical to ending the pandemic and saving lives.

For more information and to find out where you can get the shot, visit floridahealthcovid19.gov/vaccines.
TALLAHASSEE
111 N. Adams Street, Suite 208
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Phone: (850) 942-8415		 WEST PALM BEACH 
415 Clematis Street, Suite 201
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 514-0189		 TAMPA
801 North Florida Avenue, Suite 421
Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 225-7040
KISSIMMEE 
1 Courthouse Square, Suite 300
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Phone: (407) 586-7879		 PENSACOLA 
221 Palafox Place, Suite 420
Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: (850) 760-5151		 MIAMI 
901 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 505
Miami, FL 33134
Phone: (786) 501-7141
NAPLES
3299 Tamiami Trail East, #106
Naples, FL 34112
Phone: (239) 231-7890		 JACKSONVILLE
400 West Bay Street, Suite 289
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 479-7227		 ORLANDO
225 East Robinson Street, Suite 410
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 872-7161
  WASHINGTON, D.C.
716 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-5274		  
  Fax: (202) 228-4535  

RPOF Newsletter

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Chairman’s Message

Protecting Floridians from Biden’s wave of illegal aliens

Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Attorney General Ashley Moody to outline three major steps being taken to protect Floridians from the open-border chaos that has been created by the Biden administration.

First, Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 21-223 to prohibit all Florida agencies under the purview of the Governor from facilitating illegal immigration into Florida, unless otherwise required by federal or state law, and require the collection of information from state officials on the scope and costs of illegal immigration in Florida.

Second, Governor DeSantis announced the appointment of Larry Keefe, former U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, as Florida’s Public Safety Czar to ensure the actions directed by the executive order are carried out.

Third, Governor DeSantis and Attorney General Moody announced that Florida has filed suit against the Biden Administration, challenging the legality of its “catch and release” policy.

“Since President Biden took office – which has been less than one year – the Border Patrol has released nearly a quarter million illegal aliens into the United States,” Governor DeSantis said. “This executive order makes it clear that Florida resources will not be used to prop up the failed open border agenda enacted by this administration. Attorney General Ashley Moody has also filed a lawsuit against the Biden Administration challenging its policy of catching and releasing the staggering number of illegal aliens apprehended at the border into the United States.”

New Public Safety Czar Keefe will ensure the state takes key steps to protect Florida taxpayers from bearing the burden of Biden’s reckless immigration policies. “We will continue to hold the federal government accountable for refusing to enforce the immigration laws of this country,” the Governor said.

Attorney General Ashley Moody said: “The Biden Administration’s brazen disregard for federal immigration law is jeopardizing the safety and security of our state and nation, all while costing Florida taxpayers. Biden’s lax border policy is an open invitation to dangerous criminals, human traffickers and drug traffickers to enter the United States—creating a crisis at the Southern Border like we have never seen.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/09/28/governor-ron-desantis-takes-action-to-protect-floridians-from-the-dangerous-impacts-of-the-biden-border-crisis/

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Florida launches investigation of Facebook 

Governor DeSantis has directed the Secretary of State to investigate Facebook for alleged election interference based on a bombshell Wall Street Journal report. (Full letter above.) Floridians deserve to know how much Big Tech is influencing our elections, and that Florida will hold them accountable.

The Journal report shows that Facebook was impacting many state and local races by exempting a certain list of elite users from its own rules. So while many people were banned or blocked by Facebook rules, certain others were whitelisted and not held to those rules.

“It’s no secret that Big Tech censors have long enforced their own rules inconsistently,” Governor DeSantis said. “If this new report is true, Facebook has violated Florida law to put its thumb on the scale of numerous state and local races. Floridians deserve to know how much this corporate titan has influenced our elections. That is why I am directing Secretary Lee to use all legal means to uncover violations of Florida’s election laws.”

In the letter sent to Secretary of State Laurel Lee, Governor DeSantis directs the Secretary to investigate Facebook’s alleged failures to comply with Florida’s election laws.

“The thought of Facebook clandestinely manipulating elections is an affront to the basic principles of our republic. We the people have the right to choose our representatives, whether or not Silicon Valley approves,” Governor DeSantis said.

Floridians need to have faith that their elections are free from interference, including that of Big Tech oligarchs in Silicon Valley. Corporations like Facebook deserve to be held accountable for actions that erode the legitimacy of our institutions.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/09/27/governor-ron-desantis-directs-florida-secretary-of-state-to-investigate-facebook-for-alleged-violations-of-election-laws/

Florida

Governor DeSantis announced that Terran Orbital has chosen Merritt Island for construction of the largest satellite manufacturing facility in the world.

Terran Orbital will invest $300 million to build its Commercial Spacecraft and Constellation Facility, bringing spacecraft manufacturing opportunities to Florida and creating about 2,100 jobs with an average wage of $84,000.

“Satellite manufacturing is and will continue to be an important part of the economy in the Space Coast, and with this announcement we are upping the ante,” Governor DeSantis said. “In Florida we are going to continue to take the lead on space by investing in infrastructure, training highly skilled workers and maintaining an economic climate that allows companies like Terran Orbital to thrive.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/09/27/governor-ron-desantis-announces-terran-orbital-will-invest-300-million-in-florida-to-construct-the-worlds-largest-state-of-the-art-commercial-spacecraft-facility/

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Governor DeSantis announced late last week that due to the lack of support from the federal government, Florida secured 3,000 doses of the monoclonal antibody treatment on its own from GlaxoSmithKline.

“We should be doing everything we can to get patients monoclonal antibody treatments, not cutting allocations of treatment like the Biden Administration has done,” Governor DeSantis said. “Despite the cuts by the federal government, we want any Floridians that could benefit from this treatment to have access to it. Florida is going to leave no stone unturned when finding treatment for our state, and we are encouraged to have secured a shipment of monoclonal antibody treatments from GlaxoSmithKline.”

Read more here: https://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/health-news-florida/2021-09-23/a-new-monoclonal-antibody-drug-is-coming-to-florida-for-covid-19-treatment

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Attorney General Ashley Moody gave her full support this week for Congressman Vern Buchanan’s Thin Blue Line Act. The legislation would make the intentional killing, or attempted killing, of a law enforcement officer, prosecutor, firefighter or other first responder acting in the line of duty an aggravating factor under the federal death penalty statute.

“Our brave law enforcement officers risk their lives daily to protect and serve their communities. The first seven months of this year alone resulted in unprecedented violent acts, resulting in dozens of line-of-duty deaths for officers across our nation,” Attorney General Moody said. “We cannot permit the anti-police sentiment and blatant disrespect for law enforcement to fester and grow. Violent attacks on officers not only affect those who wear a badge, it lessens the safety and security of our communities at large.”

Moody added: “This legislation will provide local and state law enforcement officers the same protection and support currently provided to federal officers—acting as a deterrent to anyone who would look to harm an officer.”

Congressman Vern Buchanan said: “Police officers and first responders put their lives on the line every single day to help those in harm’s way. I appreciate Attorney General Moody’s strong endorsement and advocacy for my bill, the Thin Blue Line Act. Together, we are sending a strong message to police and first responders that we have their backs, and those who target our frontline heroes should know that there will be severe consequences.”

Read more here:http://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/B960B3DD25C365698525875D0053281C

 

Environment

Florida is committing $114 million toward wastewater treatment to further clean up the environment.

Governor DeSantis announced awards for the Wastewater Grant Program, which was established in the Clean Waterways Act and funded in this year’s budget, for projects statewide to reduce nutrient pollution. Projects include those that upgrade traditional septic systems to include nutrient removal technology, provide advanced wastewater treatment, or convert septic tanks to central sewer.

Out of the total $114 million awarded, more than $53 million of the wastewater grants – 46 percent of the funding  ­– is for the Indian River Lagoon area.

“Since I first took office, expediting water quality restoration has been one of my top priorities,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “The Indian River Lagoon covers 40% of Florida’s East Coast and is one of our state’s most iconic and critical natural resources, contributing an estimated $2 billion annually for tourism and recreation and $767 million to the marine industry.”

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/09/24/governor-ron-desantis-announces-more-than-114-million-for-wastewater-treatment-grants-to-improve-water-quality-across-the-state/

 

Washington, D.C.

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio introduced a bill that would dismantle the Biden administration’s vindictive political “equity” concept in the distribution of monoclonal antibody treatments for Covid.

Rubio introduced the Treatment Restoration for Emergency Antibody Therapeutics (TREAT) Act on Tuesday in response to the Biden administration’s politically motivated change that forces states to go through the Department of Health and Human Services to get treatments and puts caps on how much each state can receive. Before the punitive change, health care professionals could order the antibody treatments directly from the supplier.

Rubio’s bill, which is co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Rick Scott, among other GOP Senators, would stop HHS from putting policies in place that prevent health care providers and hospitals from purchasing monoclonal antibody treatments directly from distributors and manufacturers.

“This abrupt change in policy from the Biden administration is nothing but an attempt to punish Florida,” Senator Rubio said. “We cannot let vindictive, politically motivated actions by this administration jeopardize the health and safety of Floridians and others.”

Read more here: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/rubio-bill-upending-biden-monoclonal-antibody-equity-approach

 

Florida Republicans Getting Involved

The Republican Party held 46 training sessions across the state to train 555 volunteers and prepare them to register voters during the National Week of Training. There were 222 voters registered just in these trainings. Our teams are continuously recruiting and training volunteers as we march towards flipping Florida red. The staff is energized coming off this huge week to finish this year strong going into 2022.

This coming weekend we are opening our Doral office with a registered attendance of 127 so far, which looks like a full room. To register for the Doral event, go to: https://gopvictory.com/fl/rnc-hispanic-community-center-doral/

The energy level is very high as Florida Republicans know what is at stake in 2022.

 

ICYMI

The Wall Street Journal published Florida House Speaker Chris Sprowls’ op-ed highlighting the Florida Legislature’s work on DNA privacy was featured on the Wall Street Journal’s website.

By Chris Sprowls 

“Your DNA is among your most valuable assets, and you carry it with you everywhere. But it’s unsecured, easy to steal, and often freely given without a second thought about the consequences for unlocking your most private health information.

“That is why Florida recently passed the toughest criminal penalties in the nation and closed gaping loopholes to protect against DNA theft and misuse. It’s time for other states to follow Florida’s lead and protect their residents, too. If they don’t act promptly, Congress should make it a federal crime to steal someone else’s DNA.

“DNA reveals your identity and ancestry, along with unlocking predictions about what diseases you are likely to develop. Whether your DNA sample is stolen from a discarded water bottle or you give your sample to a direct-to-consumer genetic test, you’re handing over a highly personal glimpse into your future health—valuable intelligence that insurers and blackmailers would love to get their hands on…”

Read the op-ed in full here: https://www.wsj.com/articles/privacy-dna-ancestry-genetic-testing-insurance-florida-11632512276

 

Social Media Highlights

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Kathleen Passidomo – Legislative Update – September 25, 2021

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Friday concluded the first week of the Legislature’s Interim Committee meetings ahead of the 2022 Legislative Session.  This was the first of six Committee Weeks before session begins on January 11, 2022.

Several committees met this week to hear briefings from state agencies on the implementation of new laws, as well as updates on Florida’s education achievements and space exploration.

I want to congratulate State Representative Paul Renner.  On Tuesday, he was formally designated by his colleagues as the next Speaker of the Florida House, and he will begin his leadership role in fall of 2022.  Rep. Renner of Palm Coast is a great leader for his region and for our state.  I look forward to working with him in the years ahead.

Stay tuned for updates as we meet regularly throughout the fall.  If you are planning to visit the Capitol in the weeks and months ahead, reach out to my office and drop in to see us.

 

  The Florida Senate Returns to the Capitol Ahead of the 2022 Legislative Session

Senators made their way back to the Florida Capitol for the first of six Interim Committee Weeks ahead of the 2022 Legislative Session.

Several Senate committees received presentations, held discussion panels highlighting issues facing Florida, and heard updates on the implementation of legislation passed last session.

The Florida Senate continues to implement COVID-19 protocols in consultation with infectious disease consultants at Tampa General Hospital to ensure Senators and members of the public are able to safely participate in the legislative process.  We will proceed with care and caution as we work to ensure Florida remains the best place to live, work and raise a family!

Mark your calendars for the upcoming committee weeks: October 11-15, October 18-22, November 1-5, November 15-19, and November 29-December 3.  The 2022 Legislative Session begins January 11.

  

 

  Representative Paul Renner Designated Speaker of the Florida House for 2023-2024 Legislative Term

On September 21, the Florida House formally designated State Representative Paul Renner, from Palm Coast, to serve as the House Speaker for the 2023-2024 legislative term.

Speaker-designate Renner is an attorney and retired U.S. Navy commander who represents House District 24. Rep. Renner will be the first House Speaker-designate from Flagler County to serve in this leadership role.

  

 

  Florida Legislature Launches Joint Redistricting Website 

On September 22, the Florida Legislature launched a joint website, www.FloridaRedistricting.gov, and a new interactive map drawing application for the 2022 redistricting cycle.

Based on the 2020 Census data, the redistricting process revises the congressional and state legislative districts to adjust for uneven growth rates in different parts of the state. Districts determine which voters participate in which elections.

Florida’s redistricting website is a one-stop-shop for information on the redistricting process.  The site includes a direct link to a map drawing application where the public can go to draw and submit redistricting plans after signing up for a free account.

Florida is one of a handful of states to offer a free, tailored map drawing solution to the public for the 2022 redistricting cycle.

  

 

  Committee Reviews Implementation of Legislation to Reform Florida’s Child Welfare System

The Florida Senate is leading the effort to reform Florida’s Child Welfare System by passing transformative legislation that prioritizes the safety and stability of children in the child welfare system through comprehensive reforms, which range from training to reporting; all with the goal to improve both current living conditions and future outcomes for the children entrusted to our welfare system.

Senate President Wilton Simpson recently appointed Senator Ileana Garcia as the new chair of the Senate Committee on Children, Families, and Elder Affairs.  For the committee’s first meeting, Chair Garcia scheduled an update from the Department of Children and Families (DCF) on the implementation of Senate Bill 80 by Senator Jason Brodeur and Senate Bill 96.

These key measures, passed during the 2021 Legislative Session, will increase safety and stability for children within Florida’s Child Welfare System.  Additionally, the committee heard an update on the implementation status of the Families First Prevention Services Act, a federal act passed with the goals of preventing children from entering foster care, engaging families in prevention services, and providing appropriate family-like settings for foster care.

SB 80 seeks to recognize and balance the relationships young children develop with out-of-home caregivers and siblings with those of the child’s biological family members to reduce trauma-related to abrupt or frequent placement changes that remove children from safe, successful placements.  This new law also requires a quick reference FACE sheet for each child to prevent important details about a child’s status in the child welfare system from being overlooked.  Additionally, the Office of Continuing Care was created to serve former foster youth ages 18 to 26 to receive ongoing support as the youth transition to adulthood.

SB 96 enhances ongoing efforts to identify and end child abuse and sexual abuse.  The law clarifies that school personnel is required to report abuse to a central DCF hotline, provides training and cross reporting to address the connection between child abuse and animal cruelty, and strengthens investigations into sexual abuse allegations from children in out-of-home care.

  

 

  Florida Remains National Model for K-12 Achievement

For the second year, Florida ranks third in the nation for K-12 Achievement, according to the 2021 Quality Counts report by Education Week.

The Committee on Education, chaired by Senator Joe Gruters, received an overview of our ongoing efforts to propel Florida to the top of the rankings from the Florida Department of Education (DOE).  Jacob Oliva, Senior Chancellor at DOE, outlined the evolution of Florida’s assessment and accountability measures to ensure students are receiving a world-class education.

Additionally, the department discussed the implementation of Governor DeSantis’ Executive Order directing DOE to further enhance Florida’s educational standards.

The department also highlighted the positive impact of Florida’s data-driven decision to reopen schools and offer in-person instruction following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The department reported that districts with higher rates of in-person instruction had a lower rate of performance decline on all mathematics standards assessments in grades 3 through 8 between 2019 and 2021.

  

 

  Florida Remains a National Hub for Military, Space Exploration and Beyond

The Florida Senate is committed to ensuring Florida not only remains one of the most military and veteran-friendly states in the nation, but also maintains its position as a global leader in space exploration and research.  The United States Space Force and Space Florida briefed the Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security, chaired by Senator Tom Wright, on our state’s space presence and operations.

The United States Space Force was established as the sixth branch of the U.S. Armed Forces on December 20, 2019, to defend our freedom to operate in space.  Space Florida was created to foster the growth and development of a sustainable aerospace industry in our state and has played a big role in establishing the infrastructure for what is now known as Patrick Space Force Base, home to Space Launch Delta 45, in Brevard County.

“The future of the United States of America is Space,” declared Chair Wright.

  

 

  A Discussion with FiTV on Legislative Priorities Ahead of 2022 Session

This week, I had the opportunity to sit down with Brad Swanson of Florida Internet & Television (FiTV) and discuss issues facing the state of Florida.  You may watch the full interview on YouTube here or tune into Bally Sports this Tuesday, September 28, at 8:00 am.

  

 

  Florida Announces Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo as the State’s Next Surgeon General

On Tuesday, September 21, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo, MD, PhD, as Florida Surgeon General and Secretary of the Florida Department of Health.

Dr. Ladapo was recently granted a professorship at the University of Florida (UF) College of Medicine.  Prior to joining UF, he served as an associate professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) caring for hospitalized patients.  A graduate of Wake Forest University, Dr. Ladapo also holds an MD from Harvard Medical School and a PhD in Health Policy from Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

“I am honored to have been chosen by Governor DeSantis to serve as Florida’s next Surgeon General,” said Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo.  “We must make health policy decisions rooted in data and not in fear.  From California, I have observed the different approaches taken by governors across the country and I have been impressed by Governor DeSantis’ leadership and determination to ensure that Floridians are afforded all opportunities to maintain their health and wellness, while preserving their freedoms as Americans.  It is a privilege to join his team and serve the people of Florida.”

  

 

  Find Online Resources For COVID-19 Treatment, Testing & Vaccines 

There are 25 state sites where Floridians who have COVID-19 can receive the life-saving monoclonal antibody treatment. Visit https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/ to find the location nearest you and make an appointment.  There, you can also find information on testing and vaccines.

  

 

Glad to have the opportunity to meet with Major General James “Hammer” Hartsell, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, this week.  We discussed supporting the veterans and their families who call District 28 home.

 

In the News

Years of construction at Corkscrew, I-75 interchange set to end in November

Two Fort Myers SROs save Dunbar High student’s life

Romping panther kitten, other Florida wildlife captured on video at Conservation Collier preserve

 

 As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office any time that I can be of assistance.

Sincerely,

Kathleen C. Passidomo

Senate Rules Chair
State Senator, District 28

 

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