Press Releases
The Halki seminary had been the premier location for training Eastern Orthodox clergy for nearly 150 years. However, Turkish authorities forcibly shut down the seminary in 1971. The resolution simply requires that Turkey allow its citizens and institutions to be free of harassment based on religion.
"When our National Guard and reservists are called to duty, it is our duty to ensure that they have the peace of mind of knowing that their jobs are secure when they return," said Bilirakis, who is Vice Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Committee. "This legislation is a necessary step in supporting those who sign on to protect our nation and ensure our freedoms."
"More than one million American service members fought in this war, and more than 4,500 brave men and women made the ultimate sacrifice," Bilirakis said. "We must honor them, never forget their service and dedication, and make sure we provide them with the benefits and services they have so valiantly earned."
"It has been my privilege to be a strong voice for oppressed religious minorities throughout the world," Bilirakis said. "I am pleased that my colleagues once again sent a strong message in support of religious freedom in a manner that transcends party politics by unanimously condemning Turkey for failing to safeguard its Christian heritage or return confiscated church properties.
On Thursday, the House released its Fiscal Year 2012 funding bill that places conditions on the $1.3 billion in annual aid to Egypt.
"This legislation ensures our troops around the world have the equipment, resources, and training to successfully complete their missions and return home," said Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-09). "It provides soldiers, veterans and their families with the support they have earned, and will help protect the United States from threats."
Among other essential issues, the NDAA legislation:
Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-09) is calling on the House Appropriations Committee to place conditions on the $1.3 billion in annual aid the United States provides Egypt because it is being used by the Egyptian military to persecute and attack Coptic Christians and other religious minorities.
Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-09), a member of the House Homeland Security Committee, was one of the first congressmen to call for Holder's resignation, and continues to do so, especially after Holder himself called the program "inexcusable" and "wholly unacceptable."
Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-09), a member of the House Homeland Security Committee, was one of the first congressmen to call for Holder's resignation, and continues to do so, especially after Holder himself called the program "inexcusable" and "wholly unacceptable."
In May, Bilirakis introduced H.R. 2001, which would prevent the payment of unemployment compensation to individuals fired for drug or alcohol use.