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The United States House of Representatives today advanced legislation to improve our nation's energy policies, maximize our energy potential, and protect consumers and families across the nation. The House passed H.R. 8, the North American Energy Security and Infrastructure Act and resolutions to counteract EPA overreach.
November was a wonderful month, reminding us to be grateful for the many privileges we have. It is truly an honor to serve Florida's twelfth district. My many meetings with constituents, local businesses, Veterans, advocates, and families served as a reminder of how lucky I am. Here are some highlights from November:
Congress created the new choice card program last November to reduce patient wait times to get medical attention.
The card gives veterans like Terie Hynish, who have been waiting more than 30 days for appointments or who live more than 40 miles from a VA facility, the chance to see a private doctor. But Hynish, a retired senior chief petty officer in Navy, said the choice card program gave her the run around for weeks.
I am proud to be a part of the Florida delegation, representing the great Sunshine State and its residents. Florida knows how to do travel and tourism right!
Our state is one of America's top destinations for tourists. I am so proud that we have been successful in creating an environment where tourism based business can thrive, because more tourism means more jobs.
In addition to creating jobs, tourism boosts local businesses, and keeps our communities growing.
The U.S. House of Representatives today advanced legislation to address the recent terrorist attacks in Paris and the issue of our national security.
H.R. 4038, the American Security Against Foreign Enemies (SAFE) Act of 2015, prevents admission to the United States of any proposed Syrian or Iraqi refugee, or any proposed refugee, until the nation's top security officials—the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Director of the FBI, and the Director of National Intelligence— unanimously certify that the individual does not represent a security threat.
Representative Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) today introduced H.R. 4063, the Promoting Responsible Opioid Management and Incorporating Scientific Expertise Act (PROMISE Act) to help Veterans by promoting safety, patient advocacy, and better access to quality care.
The House Veterans' Affairs Committee has held multiple hearings, reviewed OIG reports, and held briefings with the Department of Veterans Affairs to determine ways to address issues at the VA.
Today, the House Veterans' Affairs Committee held a hearing to review the Choice program to help Veterans receive quality care in communities across the country.
The Choice program, which was enacted a year ago, was intended to ensure Veterans had better access to care through the use of community providers; however, its implementation has not fully met that intent.
In an effort to improve Veterans health care, the VA was required to deliver to Congress a plan to align all existing non-VA health care programs under the Choice Program.
Today, the House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced eight bills to help patients, families, consumers, and communities across our nation. The following bills were approved:
The recent terrorist attacks in Paris are a tragic wake up call to the growing, nefarious spread of radical Islam. Congress has gotten the message loud and clear - even if the president hasn't. Today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) released the following statement:
Today, the House Veterans' Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Health held a hearing to review legislative proposals to help our nation's Veterans and their families.
"Our work to improve the lives of our Veterans continues," said Congressman Bilirakis. "These bills will help provide Veterans and their families with the quality care they deserve."