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October 2, 2015

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."

October 2, 2015
Bilirakis Blog

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.

October 1, 2015

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.

October 1, 2015

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.

September 30, 2015

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.

September 30, 2015
Bilirakis Blog

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:

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September 29, 2015

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.

September 25, 2015

Today, the Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing to continue efforts to ensure automotive safety. Members discussed legislation designed to protect consumers and whistleblowers within the industry.

September 25, 2015

Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) today cosponsored H.R. 3521, the Gulf Red Snapper Data Improvement Act.

The Gulf Red Snapper Data Improvement Act would authorize third-party data collection of Gulf reef fish populations to be used for federal stock assessments, through grant funding managed by the National Marine Fishery Service SE Regional Office.

H.R. 3521 would open up communication between NMFS and various stakeholders and seek input from academia, fishermen, and other fisheries experts to improve data collection.

September 25, 2015

I am grateful to Speaker John Boehner for his service to our country. While we did not always see eye to eye, he was a man of integrity and I honestly believe Speaker Boehner did his very best to listen to the American people and deliver solutions during a difficult period in our nation's history.