We are now in the longest government shutdown in our nation’s history because Senate Democrats have put politics ahead of governing. The Senate has now voted 60-40 to advance a compromise funding measure—with eight Democrats joining Republicans—but the bill still needs to be passed by the House and signed into law before essential services can be restored.

As we mark Veterans Day, we pause to honor the men and women who defended our freedoms with quiet strength and devotion. Their courage reminds us that America stays strong when we put country first. I am grateful for every veteran across Florida’s Heartland and throughout our nation.

If you or your family need assistance working with a federal agency during this shutdown, please reach out. You can also visit our Government Shutdown Resources page for helpful information.

For more on my thoughts on the ongoing shutdown and the path forward, I penned an op-ed in the Lakeland Ledger.

Keep reading below for more updates:

The Schumer shutdown has disrupted services and created real strain for families, service members and federal workers. Taxpayers are also stuck with the bill, yet there is no public accounting of how many federal employees are furloughed or how much backpay will be owed. That’s why I introduced the Non-Essential Workers Transparency Act to ensure the public gets a full picture of the cost when government funding stalls. My bill requires agencies to report how many employees were furloughed and how many continued working. It also requires disclosure of the total pay for each group so taxpayers can see the true cost of shutdowns and hold decision-makers accountable. Click here to learn more.

America cannot be food secure if it relies on adversaries for the minerals that feed our farms. Phosphate is essential to fertilizer production and Florida holds the nation’s largest reserve, but foreign control of supply puts producers and families at risk of higher costs and supply disruptions. That’s why earlier this fall I urged the Department of the Interior (DOI) to add phosphate to the U.S. Critical Minerals List. Last week, DOI finalized the list and included phosphate, a key step that recognizes Florida’s role in our farm economy and helps guard against price spikes and supply disruptions. I will keep working to ensure our country remains secure and in control of the resources needed to keep food production strong. Click here to learn more.

I joined the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) in Lakeland for a conversation with veterans, business leaders and community partners on how American engagement abroad supports security and opportunity here at home. We examined the link between stable global markets and Florida’s economy, as well as the role of strong alliances in keeping our nation safe. I appreciate the USGLC team and the local voices who took part in this discussion. Florida’s Heartland plays a meaningful role in these efforts, and I remain focused on advancing policies that protect our interests and support growth across our region.

Florida families and farmers feel the strain of the Democrat shutdown | Guest commentary – Lakeland Ledger

Scott Franklin Introduces Bill Demanding Report on Cost of Shutdown - The Floridian

Franklin demands transparency on the true cost of shutdown – Highlands News-Sun

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Which House procedure allows members to request a recorded vote after a voice vote has been taken?

A. Point of Order
B. Motion to Reconsider
C. Demand for the Yeas and Nays
D. Motion to Suspend the Rules

Last week's question:

When the House considers a bill “under suspension of the rules,” what is required for it to pass?

A. A simple majority vote
B. A two-thirds majority vote - Correct answer
C. Unanimous consent of members present
D. Approval by the Rules Committee before the vote