Press Releases

"The violence in Syria has affected the entire country, with accusations of torture and extrajudicial killings committed by both the Assad government and rebel forces. Members of religious minority communities including Christians, Ezidis, and Mandaeans are caught in the middle of this violence.

"This bipartisan bill sends a clear message to the Iranian regime that the U.S. is committed to preventing Iran from continuing to pursue nuclear weapons capabilities. These new and expanded sanctions target its energy industry, as well as financial institutions, shipping companies, and insurers doing business with Iran. The U.S.

"While we must continue to work to create a stable economic environment which facilitates growth, I host these regular employment fairs as a means of putting those seeking work in touch with employers in the Tampa Bay area," Bilirakis said.

The Honoring America's Veterans Act included the language of H.R. 2274, which will create an accountability mechanism to ensure that the Post 9/11 Educational Assistance Program is adequately providing the education benefits intended.

"To create meaningful jobs and cut the unemployment rate, we need to cut the red tape," Bilirakis said. "Regulations that don't add value have gone too far and have limited businesses ability to expand and hire."

The Protecting Veterans Pensions Act would address a common scam in which unethical financial advisors and firms prey on elderly and disabled veterans by promising to help them qualify for VA pension benefits if they divert their assets into trusts or annuities.

"It has been nearly a decade since the last authorization was enacted, which has eroded Congress's oversight and foreign policy leverage. Congress has a commitment to fiscal responsibility and this legislation will allow for reforms that will make the federal government and its foreign relations operations more efficient and effective."

"I have worked to condemn violations of religious freedom throughout the world," Bilirakis said. "Unfortunately, this tragedy continues to persist, and this event will provide an opportunity to learn from national experts about the challenges religious minorities face all around the globe."