Last week was a full one as the House advanced legislation to cut federal red tape for small businesses. I traveled to Nigeria with colleagues from the Appropriations Committee to assess the intensifying security situation and rising persecution of Christian communities. Closer to home, I participated in a Naval Academy Board of Visitors meeting at my alma mater, where we focused on the education, training, and leadership development needed to prepare the next generation of Navy and Marine Corps officers. And in Washington, I also addressed recent public comments that could create confusion within our armed forces and undermine the clear chain of command our military relies on.

Back home, our office helped mark the opening of the new Sebring VA Clinic, which will expand access to high-quality care for veterans across the district. We also joined local leaders in recognizing outstanding students and supporting small businesses in Hardee County. I also appreciated hearing directly from constituents during our recent Tele-Town Hall.

Keep reading below for more updates:

Small businesses across FL-18 have faced years of rising regulatory pressure that has increased costs and made it harder to grow. Many of these challenges stem from rules finalized under the Biden Administration, which added an estimated $1.8 trillion in new regulatory costs. These burdens fall heaviest on family-owned shops and local employers that operate on tight margins and need a stable environment to plan for the future.

That's why I supported legislation to give small businesses a stronger voice in the federal rulemaking process and require agencies to account for how new mandates affect local employers. These solutions support the entrepreneurs who drive our economy and create jobs across our district and help clear barriers that stand in the way of investment and expansion:

• H.R. 4305, the DUMP Red Tape Act, makes permanent the Red Tape Hotline created under President Trump and requires the Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy to submit annual findings to Congress so agencies can address problems more effectively; and
• H.R. 2965, the Small Business Regulatory Reduction Act, prevents new federal rules from increasing compliance costs for small businesses and strengthens oversight of regulations that place added burdens on local employers.

Thank you to everyone who joined my Teletown Hall last week. I had many meaningful conversations with callers across FL-18 and appreciate hearing your perspectives on key national issues. From national security and healthcare to transparency in government spending, your input helps guide my work in representing you. I will keep working to advance policies that reflect the values and needs of our district.

‘We do not have to wait,’ ADF urges US Congress to act on Nigeria’s alleged Christian genocide - Nigerian Tribune

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Which step does the House Appropriations Committee take before sending an annual spending bill to the full House for debate?

A. The committee holds a markup to amend and approve the bill
B. The Speaker certifies the bill for floor consideration
C. The Budget Committee issues a spending score for each account
D. The Rules Committee drafts a special rule for the bill

Last week's question:

Which House calendar is used for bills that raise revenue or spend federal money?

A. Union Calendar - Correct answer
B. House Calendar
C. Private Calendar
D. Discharge Calendar