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Dear Neighbor,
I was eager to return to Washington last week and hit the ground running on a wide range of policy priorities. These included strengthening programs for seniors and our most vulnerable neighbors, ensuring transparency and justice for victims of sexual abuse, examining the emerging challenges of artificial intelligence, advancing broadband and technology infrastructure, lowering energy costs for American consumers, promoting tourism, and reviewing the feasibility of reforms to Daylight Saving Time. Continue reading for a brief overview of my work on your behalf.
Supporting Seniors and Vulnerable Populations: Last week, I introduced the Senior Savings Protection Act, which ensures continued funding for Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) programs—lifelines for low-income seniors, people with disabilities, and caregivers. These programs help individuals save money, access medications, and receive essential care. Reauthorizing this funding protects the dignity, health, and financial security of our most vulnerable neighbors.
We also continued pushing back against misleading scare tactics surrounding recent Medicaid reforms. The facts remain clear: the One, Big, Beautiful Bill strengthens Medicaid for the vulnerable Americans who rely on it most. This new law ensures benefits go to those truly in need—not able-bodied individuals who choose not to work in states that expanded eligibility, which Florida did not. Click here to learn more.
Fighting for Transparency and Supporting Victims: I strongly support full transparency regarding the Epstein files and justice for the survivors. No one—regardless of wealth, status, or political affiliation—should be shielded from accountability. That is why I proudly voted yes, and am grateful President Trump signed into law, the legislation requiring the release of all related files while protecting the identities of victims who request confidentiality. After meeting with a group of survivors last week, I am more convinced than ever that this step is essential for truth, justice, and healing.
Examining Artificial Intelligence (AI): I participated in the Oversight & Investigations Subcommittee hearing-Innovation with Integrity: Examining the Risks and Benefits of AI Chatbots. As AI continues to evolve, it is critical that we foster innovation while ensuring transparency, accountability, and strong safeguards for the American people. I appreciated the insightful testimony from our experts and the thoughtful, forward-looking discussion with my colleagues.
Advancing Broadband and Technology Infrastructure: During Tuesday’s Communications & Technology Subcommittee markup hearing, we advanced 28 bills aimed at streamlining broadband permitting and strengthening our communications infrastructure. I was proud to author the Coastal Broadband Deployment Act, as expanding reliable, high-speed internet access remains essential for communities of every size—urban, rural, and coastal.
Lowering Energy Costs for Americans: House Republicans advanced two additional measures last week to lower energy costs and bolster America’s energy independence. These actions build on our ongoing efforts to expand domestic production, strengthen energy supply chains, invest in critical infrastructure, and enhance grid reliability. Together, these steps move us closer to a stronger, more secure, and more affordable energy future.
Promoting Tourism & Reviewing Daylight Savings Time: As Chairman of the Communications, Manufacturing, and Technology Subcommittee, I called an important hearing on revitalizing travel and tourism—industries that are vital engines of both local and national economic growth. We also examined the impacts of Daylight Savings Time, reviewing research and diverse perspectives to guide thoughtful and informed policy decisions. Click here to listen to my opening remarks during the hearing.
Improving Public Safety: President Trump signed the Department of Agriculture funding bill last week, securing $715,000 that I sponsored for the City of Inverness to acquire a desperately needed ladder truck. The fire department currently has no aerial apparatus, even though more than 40 buildings in the city require one under the Insurance Service Office (ISO) standards. This investment will help protect families, businesses, and first responders, while lowering insurance costs for the city and saving taxpayer dollars. I’m proud to deliver this critical support for our community.
Honoring Veterans: I was truly honored to speak at the Veterans and Military Ball in Hernando County. Spending the evening with so many who have served, and those who support them, was both inspiring and deeply humbling. I’m grateful for the opportunity to participate in such a meaningful and patriotic event.
Raising Awareness: November marks Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, a time to honor patients, families, caregivers, and medical professionals impacted by this devastating illness. Alzheimer’s touches millions of Americans, and raising awareness is essential to advancing research, improving care, and ensuring meaningful support for those affected. Together, we will continue advocating for better treatments, deeper understanding, and brighter outcomes for patients and their loved ones.
Community Connection
I am fortunate to have a team of dedicated staff who regularly attend events throughout our community, especially when I am required to be in Washington, DC. Through their collective efforts, I am better able to stay connected to the issues that matter most to my constituents. As part of my commitment to developing a better understanding of the issues facing constituents in Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties, members of my team attended several events last week. Here are a few highlights.
My team joined in celebrating the expansion of the Good Samaritan Free Health Clinic in West Pasco, a milestone that will help bring quality care to even more members of our community.
My team was also deeply inspired at a local home dedication ceremony celebrating multiple new Habitat for Humanity homes in Citrus County—a powerful reminder of how transformative safe, affordable housing can be for families and the community.
Additionally, my team took part in a legislative discussion in Central Pasco focused on the community’s evolving healthcare needs—an important conversation about improving access, services, and support for local families.
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this message from a constituent after my team helped with her mom's VA case.
I just wanted to send a shout-out to Kristen Sellas for all of her kind, professional and prompt help to obtain VA benefits for my elderly mom. She was so caring and understanding. From starting with
the local VA to benefits being delivered was almost a 2-year process. I wanted you to know that she was excellent in every aspect and I am glad I was referred to her. Please let her know how much she is appreciated by my mom and me.
This is just one example of the work we do each day. Constituent services are a critical element of our congressional office. The federal government is a massive operation, and my office is available if you ever need assistance in navigating the bureaucracy or cutting through red tape. Also, if you are planning a trip to Washington, DC please let us know 90 days in advance so we can help make the most of your visit. We are here to serve you! |
