Dear friends and neighbors,
This week, we received notice of two incredible funding opportunities for Central Florida.
First, the Federal Aviation Administration announced nearly $70 million in funding for MCO through their Airport Terminal Program — created by the Infrastructure Law. This will help the airport improve mobility with the Terminal C pedestrian bridge project and keep our world-class airport moving forward.
We also heard from the Department of Housing and Urban Development that our district will receive over $30.3 million to create more affordable housing, foster community development, and uplift those who are experiencing homelessness. We are thrilled about these opportunities for our region.
Over at the Democratic Issues Conference, we had important conversations with President Biden, Vice President Harris, cabinet secretaries, and other stakeholders. From lowering costs, boosting jobs, and upgrading infrastructure to protecting the environment and civil rights, we put people over politics.
Next week, we'll be in the district and in Washington, D.C., continuing to advocate for Central Floridians. I'm incredibly proud of our accomplishments and look forward to the work we have left to do.
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Securing Nearly $70 Million in Funding for MCO |
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We're proud to help deliver nearly $70 million in grants to Orlando International Airport as part of FAA's Airport Terminal Program. Thanks to our Infrastructure Law, MCO will improve mobility with the Terminal C pedestrian bridge project and keep our world-class airport moving forward.
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$30.3 Million For Affordable Housing and Other Community Projects |
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We secured over $30.3 million for our district through HUD funds. This will be deployed to create more affordable housing, foster community development, and uplift those who are experiencing homelessness. We met with Regional Administrator Jose Alvarez to talk about this great news.
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Addressing Antisemitic Incidents in Central Florida |
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After recent antisemitic incidents in Central Florida, we are seeking answers from the Department of Justice and the FBI about those responsible. We stand with our Jewish community and hope for an investigation into potential civil rights and criminal violations committed by this group.
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Attending the Democratic Issues Conference |
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House Democrats had very productive conversations with President Biden, Vice President Harris, cabinet secretaries, and other stakeholders at the Democratic Issues Conference. From lowering costs, boosting jobs, and upgrading infrastructure to protecting the environment and civil rights, we put people over politics.
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Supporting the PRO Act in Congress |
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Proud to co-sponsor the bipartisan PRO Act to help create an economy where everyone can succeed. The PRO Act will empower workers to exercise their right to organize, hold employers accountable for violating workers’ rights, and secure free, fair, and safe union elections.
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Commemorating 106 Years of Puerto Ricans'
U.S. Citizenship
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We commemorated 106 years since Puerto Ricans were granted U.S. citizenship. We must continue working in the best interest of the island. I’m proud of what we have accomplished to ensure equality and look forward to moving these efforts forward in the 118th Congress.
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Standing Up for Student Loan Relief |
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We stood with President Biden and his administration as the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in two key cases that will affect millions of federal student loan borrowers. We support the president's well-established plan to provide $10,000 — $20,000 in relief.
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Working Towards Data Privacy for Americans |
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Florida does not have any internet privacy laws — leaving 22 million Floridians without critical rights. In this week's Energy and Commerce Committee Innovation, Data, and Commerce hearing, I spoke about the need to create a national standard to ensure we protect our valuable personal information.
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Advocating for Central Florida in the Farm Bill |
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I was excited to attend my first Agriculture Committee hearing of the 118th Congress this week. As we begin working on the Farm Bill, I will make sure we prioritize our Central Florida farmers, ranchers, and growers, as well as families who depend on SNAP benefits to put food on the table.
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Honoring Osceola's Greatest Cowboy, Lawrence Silas |
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We are happy to honor one of Osceola County's greatest cowboys, Lawrence Silas, by introducing a resolution recognizing his contributions to Florida. The son of a formerly enslaved father, Silas went on to manage his own land, provide expert advice for dealers and breeders, and create jobs.
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Celebrating a Local Naval Academy Appointee |
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We were honored to nominate Lake Nona High School student Alyssa Negron for the Naval Academy and are proud of her for receiving an appointment.
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Meeting with the University of Central Florida |
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Our office was thrilled to meet with UCF faculty and Student Government Association representatives in Washington, D.C., this week. We are excited to continue working to deliver key health, space, and security research grants for the university and create internship opportunities for students.
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ICYMI: Celebrating the Florida Friendly Landscaping 30th Anniversary
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It was exciting to attend the Florida Friendly Landscaping 30th anniversary event and work with the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences on the Agriculture Committee to support this critical, environmentally friendly program.
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Important Updates for Central Floridians |
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Special ACA Enrollment Period |
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We secured an extension of the special health care enrollment period from March 31, 2023, through July 31, 2024, for those affected by the end of pandemic-related Medicaid continuous coverage.
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PACT Act Resources for Veterans |
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Toxic-exposed veterans in Central Florida deserve to access all their rightfully earned benefits without issue.
Veterans and their loved ones can stay updated on the effects of the Honoring our PACT Act by visiting VA.gov/PACT.
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There has been an increase in PACT Act-related email, phone, and social media scams targeting veterans by offering to submit claims on their behalf. Click here to learn more.
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Emergency Mental Health Care for Veterans |
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Veterans can now receive no-cost emergency mental health care at VA or non-VA healthcare facilities. Veterans can use this benefit whether or not they are enrolled in the VA system. This new policy will save lives.
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Insulin is Now No More Than $35/Month for Seniors |
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Last year, House Democrats passed the Inflation Reduction Act. This year, millions of seniors will no longer have to ration their insulin because they can’t afford it. Just this week, insulin producer Eli Lilly said they are reducing their price by 70% with a $35 cap.
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117th Congress End-of-Session Report |
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I am proud to be your representative and look forward to our continued efforts to improve our district! Please do not hesitate to call my office with any questions or concerns.
In Community,
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Congressman Darren Soto
Representative for Florida's 9th Congressional District
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Contact Me
Washington, D.C.
2353 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
804 Bryan Street
Kissimmee, FL 34741
5800 South Semoran Blvd
Suite B
Orlando, FL 32822
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