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Today, the Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Communications and Technology held a hearing to examine ways to improve federal spectrum systems.
Spectrum, the highly sought-after radio frequencies that make wireless communications possible, has revolutionized our way of communicating. The Energy and Commerce Committee is working to bring our laws up to speed with the technological advances in the 21st century.
Today, the Veterans' Affairs Committee held an oversight hearing on the Independent Assessment of the Health Care Delivery Systems and Management Processes of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The Independent Assessment evaluates every aspect of the Veterans' Health Administration. Recent assessments found many systemic shortfalls and significant flaws across VHA.
Last week, the President signed into law the Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2015 to extend the authorization for numerous Veterans Affairs programs related to health care, benefit services, homelessness programs, and more.
Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to authorize necessary funds for the Department of Defense to provide our military with the tools they need to defend our country.
"The defense of our nation is a top priority, as is ensuring active duty military preparedness and caring for our Veterans," said Congressman Bilirakis. "The NDAA is a vital piece of legislation and I'm proud to join my colleagues to further our efforts to help our nation's heroes."
This week, the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues hosted an inaugural "Stand with Greece" policy summit at the U.S. Capitol.
Greece is an important strategic ally of the United States, and is undergoing crises, both economic and migratory, with lasting effects likely to persist into the foreseeable future. Co-chairs Gus Bilirakis and Carolyn Maloney hosted a consortium of business, academic, and policy experts from around the country and Greece to explore how U.S. policies can best be utilized to provide technical and security support to our longtime friend and ally.
Sometimes the call comes from a lawyer, a judge or an employee at the jail who senses something is off. Sometimes the call comes from a loved one, often a concerned parent.
Vasilios "Billy" Major is the guy who takes those calls.
For 11 years, Major has worked as a disposition specialist for the Public Defender's Office, often scrambling to find suitable solutions for individuals with mental illnesses who land in the legal system.
Today, the Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Health reviewed legislation to help further efforts to strengthen Medicare and protect our nation's seniors.
Members discussed legislation, including Congressman Gus Bilirakis's H.R. 556, the Prevent Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act, to improve Medicare for patients. H.R. 556 would add physical therapists to the list of providers allowed to enter into temporary billing arrangements for a Medicare patient in instances of illness, pregnancy, or vacation.
Today, the Energy and Commerce Committee advanced three bills to embrace advances in the energy sector, protect taxpayer dollars, and protect our nation's children.
"These are important bills that will benefit all Americans upon passage," said Congressman Bilirakis.
The committee advanced the H.R. 8, the North American Energy Security and Infrastructure Act, a comprehensive energy bill that seeks to capitalize on America's energy abundance.
This month was an exciting and busy month. It was a privilege to be in the presence of His Holiness Pope Francis, to meet with some constituents, and to continue my efforts to protect our nation's Veterans, taxpayers, and families. Here are some highlights from September:
Today, the Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing to discuss the sharing economy and what it means for jobs, consumers, and legislative policies. Innovative companies like Uber, Airbnb, Thumbtack, and others are using modern technology to run businesses efficiently. These companies are creating new jobs and new options for consumers while increasing competition and convenience.