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"The tourism and travel industry is Florida's chief economic driver," said Bilirakis. "As our economy looks to rebound, the travel and tourism sectors provide a great opportunity for American growth and prosperity, and I look forward to working with my good friend, Congressman Farr, to help promote tourism both at home and abroad."
Since September is Suicide Prevention Month, I wanted to take a moment to discuss one of the most pressing issues facing our military and veterans communities: military suicide. As Vice-Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, I have the privilege to serve our nation's heroes by ensuring they have access to the resources they need when they return home. Unfortunately, as the war in Iraq has come to a close and the conflict in Afghanistan continues, we have seen a sharp rise in suicide rates among these populations.
"Unaffordable flood insurance could potentially devastate home values, small businesses and entire communities across the country," said Bilirakis. "Florida has some of the highest flood insurance premiums in the country, and home sales in flood areas throughout the state have virtually halted as a result of astronomical rate quotes. We must secure temporary relief for the millions of homeowners and small businesses susceptible to steep rate increases across the country. Flood insurance accessibility and solvency must be balanced with consumer affordability."
"My staff and I stand ready to assist all constituents in Florida's 12th Congressional District," said Congressman Bilirakis. "By holding these office hours in Dade City, we hope to make it easier for residents in this area to use my office as a resource in matters concerning the federal government or to share their views on important issues facing our country and community."
"We remember September 11, 2001, not only for the tragic events that occurred and the loved ones lost, but also for the strength and unity demonstrated by Americans that day ? a unique solidarity still found throughout our nation. In the face of great danger, our first responders, service men and women, firefighters, police officers, and everyday Americans answered the call of duty. Thank you to everyone who continues to selflessly serve this country.
Last week, I joined many of my colleagues on a bipartisan letterto President Obama, requesting that he receive Congressional authorization before ordering U.S. military action in Syria. I appreciate the President's decision to respect the role of Congress and present its case to both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate this week.
Today, Congressman Gus M. Bilirakis (R-FL), brought together travel and tourism industry leaders, as well as businesses directly impacted by the industry, for a roundtable event at Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel. At this event, local travel leaders, including the U.S.
"Thank you to those who have reached out to me through Facebook and Twitter or by contacting my office. I share many of your concerns in engaging in this civil war and will be voting no on the authorization of military force in Syria."
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"I appreciate the President's decision to respect the role of Congress and seek Congressional approval before taking military action in Syria. Engaging our military should include a clear, attainable goal and consider whether a direct national security risk to the United States exists. I share the concerns of many of my constituents in engaging in this civil war and will be returning to Washington to examine the evidence and debate this on the House floor."
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"The European Union's decision to designate Hezbollah's military wing as a terrorist organization is encouraging," said Bilirakis. "This designation will make it more difficult for Hezbollah to raise money to fund its terrorist activities and will hopefully weaken the organization's support and eventually render it obsolete. While I continue to call on members of the EU to designate the entire Hezbollah operation as a terrorist organization, I applaud them for taking this important step in the fight against terrorism."