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Dear Neighbor,
As we begin the new year, I remain focused on delivering real results for Florida families-both in Washington, D.C., and right here in our district. From lowering costs and cutting red tape to supporting Veterans, seniors, and local communities, I am committed to protecting the American Dream and ensuring our neighbors have every opportunity to succeed. It is an honor to serve you, and I look forward to continuing this work on your behalf. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office if I can be of assistance to you.
Here’s a snapshot of what I’ve been working on recently.
Restoring Fiscal Sanity: Last week, the House passed a three-bill Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations package that cuts wasteful spending, strengthens public safety, restores American energy dominance, and protects public lands. The Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment bills provide full-year funding and keep House Republicans on track to pass all 12 appropriations bills. House Republicans are cutting Biden-era waste and advancing the America First agenda. These bills lower costs, strengthen public safety, restore energy dominance, and protect our public lands by funding what matters and stopping what doesn’t.
Bill Highlights
Commerce, Justice, Science
- $63 million increase for the DEA to combat fentanyl and illicit drugs
- 18% funding increase for the U.S. Trade Representative to address unfair trade
- Increased immigration adjudications and accountability for immigration judges
Energy and Water Development
- $20 billion to modernize the nuclear weapons stockpile
- Blocks crude oil sales from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to China
- Major investment in domestic critical minerals mining
- Eliminates the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations
Interior and Environment
- Increased law enforcement funding for federal lands
- $11.2 million increase for offshore conventional energy development
- Exempts farmers from burdensome greenhouse gas requirements
- $320 million reduction in EPA funding
As part of these three appropriations bills, I was proud to secure more than $14.6 million in federal grant funding for critical infrastructure projects in our community. These investments reflect my commitment to delivering results for our district and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly. Identified by local government leaders as priority unmet needs, these projects will improve public safety, protect public health, strengthen water infrastructure, and advance lifesaving medical research. Once approved by the Senate and signed into law, they have the potential to make a lasting and meaningful impact across our district.
Lowering Costs: Thanks to the leadership of House Republicans and President Trump, we’re seeing progress where it matters most-lower costs for families, less government waste, and falling mortgage rates.
 Expanding Affordable Housing Opportunities: The House also passed the Affordable HOMES Act last week, which prioritizes affordable housing over duplicative mandates. By cutting unnecessary red tape and streamlining regulations, this legislation helps lower housing costs and expands access to homeownership for American families. These improvements are critical to keeping the American Dream of homeownership alive and within reach for hardworking Americans.
Standing Up for Our Veterans: During last week's meeting with VA Secretary Doug Collins, I asked for his support in advancing my Major Richard Star Act to correct the injustice of concurrent receipt affecting more than 50,000 medically retired combat Veterans. I also raised ongoing challenges that local Veterans face when accessing community care, as well as the need to improve communication failures that have left some Veterans behind. I will never stop fighting for our heroes.
As Special Advisor to the Speaker on Veterans Issues, I used our first meeting of 2026 to discuss the needs of Veterans across the country. During our conversation, I also emphasized the urgency of advancing my Major Richard Star Act-legislation with broad bipartisan support in both the House and
Senate-across the finish line.
Additionally, I had the privilege of meeting with members of The Military Coalition, representing 30 veteran service organizations that support my Major Richard Star Act. We discussed strategy and the path forward to advance this critical legislation. I will continue working with House Leadership and the Trump Administration to end the injustice of concurrent receipt and ensure our nation’s heroes receive the full benefits they have earned.
Protecting Seniors’ Access to Care: During last week’s Health Subcommittee hearing, we examined proposals aimed at protecting and improving patient access to Medicare services, including two measures I’ve coauthored: The RESULTS Act and the Senior Savings Protection Act. Ensuring seniors can receive the care they need, when they need it, remains a top priority. Click here to listen to my remarks during the hearing.
Supporting Florida Communities and Rural Healthcare: The Working Families Tax Cut Act will deliver $209 million to Florida, helping bolster rural healthcare and provide vital support to communities that need it most. This investment will strengthen local systems and improve access to care across our state.
Listening to Constituents: Thank you to everyone in Citrus County who participated in my Take A Stand Listening Session last week. Any resident may sign up to speak on any topic-just call my office to join the next session. Hearing directly from you helps shape my work in Washington and ensures your voices are heard.
Strengthening Local Partnerships: I appreciated the opportunity to meet this week with Citrus County Administrator Steve Howard and Citrus County Economic Development Director Steve Baham. We discussed partnership, progress, and ways we can work together to improve the lives of our constituents and strengthen our community.
Preserving Our History: I was also proud to take part in the unveiling of a revitalized historic treasure at Liberty Park in Inverness. Preserving our heritage ensures future generations can learn from and enjoy the history that helped shape our community.
Celebrating Epiphany: Warm wishes to all who observe Epiphany. While my duties in Washington, D.C. kept me away this year, my thoughts were with you and with the vibrant faith and tradition that make this celebration so meaningful. May the joy, hope, and spiritual renewal of this sacred day continue to guide and uplift you throughout the year. A special congratulations to Athos Karistinos of Tarpon Springs on retrieving the cross during this year’s dive-a proud moment honoring a cherished tradition and our community’s rich heritage.
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 staff was honored to attend and help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Bayonet Point Lions Club—a remarkable milestone that reflects five decades of service, generosity, and dedication to the community.
My team was also proud to attend the Grand Opening of the Moffitt Speros campus in Pasco-an exciting beginning that will serve as a hub for cutting-edge cancer research while delivering the highest quality care to patients throughout our community.
Additionally, a member of my team was honored to serve as a panelist during Leadership Tampa Bay’s Pasco County Day, sharing insights and engaging with emerging leaders committed to strengthening our community.
Constituent Corner
My team recently received this message from a constituent after helping her with a VA related issue.
I want to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Thank you for your persistence with my file. Without you and your staff I would still be standing still. I greatly appreciate everything you have done for me. I also wanted to give you the heads up that the VA awarded the extra 8 year provision pay. I was told this should have been included with the DIC award. The decision was made within 9/10 days of submitting. Just so you know for future widows you are assisting. Thank you again to you and your staff! You are a tremendous asset representing Congressman Bilirakis and our community.
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! |
