Fighting for COVID-19 Relief

Dear friends and neighbors,

The COVID-19 pandemic is still here –– and Central Florida, like most of the country, is in need of relief. The House Democratic Majority has voted twice for the Heroes Act to fund coronavirus response, keep our first responders on the job, help small businesses, extend unemployment benefits and provide food and housing assistance. This week, I returned to Washington D.C. in hopes of voting for a compromise package, but Republicans continue to deny and delay. It's time to come together to save lives and livelihoods. Watch as I call on my colleagues to provide the American people with much-needed relief.

In the District

Witnessing History

I was thrilled to see Crew 1 liftoff at NASA's Kennedy Space Center this weekend. Astronaut Shannon Walker became the first woman launched from American soil in nearly 10 years. Astronaut Vic Glover became the first African American to have an extended mission on the International Space Station. Here Amanda and I are pictured with Astronaut Suni Williams. Congratulations to the Astronauts, NASA and SpaceX on a successful launch. So inspiring!

In Washington

Fighting for Climate Action

Climate change was on the ballot, and the American people said loud and clear that it's time for Congress, with President-elect Biden's leadership, to come together and take real action to combat the climate crisis. This week, I spoke in the Committee on Natural Resources to discuss the importance of climate action to improve our oceans’ ability to clean our air and capture carbon.

Zero Out-of-Pocket Costs for Vaccines

If we want to come out of this crisis, we’ve got to ensure our low income and communities of color have access to a COVID-19 vaccine with no out-of-pocket costs. That's why I introduced the the Helping Adults Protect Immunity Act (HAPI) Act to ensure more Americans on Medicaid can receive necessary vaccines, including any future COVID-19 vaccine, at no out-of-pocket cost. Our legislation will be a major difference in defeating the virus, saving lives and bringing Central Florida and the nation back to prosperity. Overall, the HAPI Act will improve public health across America and ensure our most vulnerable communities are not left behind.

News of the Week

Bringing Federal Funding to our Communities

Last week, I led Members of the Florida Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to Governor Ron DeSantis requesting he immediately release the remaining CARES Act federal dollars to all Florida counties, cities and towns including Osceola County.

READ HERE

Additional Resources

Open enrollment for health care coverage is HAPPENING NOW until December 15th! During this COVID pandemic, access to affordable, quality health coverage is more important than ever.

During this time of stress and uncertainty, each of you should know that I am here to support you. On behalf of the hard-working families of Central Florida and all Americans, I will continue to work tirelessly with the House Democratic Majority and across the aisle to put you first and protect Americans’ health, safety and economic security. For an up to date resource guide on coronavirus or coronavirus related help, please visit my website here. Feel free to reach out to my offices in Central Florida or Washington, D.C. to voice your concerns or for any other help.

In Community,