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"When Biggert-Waters was passed in 2012, its reforms were not intended to cause the dramatic premium increases that homeowners are currently experiencing. Some Floridians have been quoted annual premiums in the tens of thousands of dollars, which is an untenable financial burden, particularly during these difficult economic times. This legislation contains a number of important provisions that will provide relief for homeowners," Bilirakis said.

After weeks of revisions by both House Republicans and Democrats, the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act passed 306-91 following a brief debate on the floor.

Before the vote, members of both parties made passionate appeals in favor of the legislation, saying it would relieve homeowners burdened by excessive premiums while ensuring the deeply-indebted National Flood Insurance Program remains solvent.

"Nearly 30% of all seniors – 15 million Americans – choose Medicare Advantage. Individuals have testified before the Energy & Commerce that Medicare Advantage provides better results than traditional Medicare by embracing free market principles," Bilirakis said. "Obamacare cuts Medicare by over $700 billion. These cuts will reduce the access seniors have to Medicare Advantage. This is unacceptable."

To watch the entire floor speech, click here.

"I am humbled to be presented with this award," said Bilirakis. "As Vice-Chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, I have an incredible opportunity to assist veterans. I am deeply committed to serving our heroes, to ensure they receive the benefits they deserve. Equally important are the young men and women returning home from recent conflicts. I am proud to have sponsored and supported legislation that will assist these brave service members with their reintegration to civilian life through retraining or educational opportunities."

"CMS is clearly subverting the intent and letter of the law passed by Congress by needlessly inserting themselves into the Medicare Part D program," Bilirakis said. "CMS justifies their intrusion as a cost-saving measure because they claim their proposed rules will reduce fraud and abuse, among other aspects. Medicare Part D is a wildly successful program, and there are better ways to save money in the Part D program than enacting rules that will reduce seniors' access to affordable medications and increase premiums."

"The report is clear. The CMS Actuary estimates 65 percent of small businesses will be forced to increase their premiums as a direct result of Obamacare. That is roughly 11 million people. Small businesses are a cornerstone of economic growth in this country. To saddle them with increased health care costs will reduce their capacity to hire or expand," said Bilirakis. "The Administration talks about creating jobs and lowering health care costs, but their policies do the exact opposite.

"The Express Employment Professionals, the largest private staffing firm in the country, conducted a survey that found that, in order to elude being subjected to the Employer Mandate, 70% of businesses with 45-49 employees will avoid hiring to stay under the 50-employee mark. It also found that 60% believe Obamacare will lead to less job creation," said Bilirakis.

"My constituents cannot afford for Congress to kick the can down the road. I whole-heartedly support a delay of the astronomical increases to flood insurance rates, while pushing for a permanent legislative fix. It is clear FEMA did not consider affordability to homeowners when implementing the law; Congressional action is necessary."

View the letter here.