One step closer to COVID-19 relief for Central Floridians

Dear friends and neighbors,

Central Floridians have waited far too long for additional COVID-19 relief and they cannot afford any more delays. That's why this week, I joined my colleagues in passing the 2021 Budget Resolution, ensuring that we can deliver on President Joe Biden's American Rescue plan and provide urgently needed relief for struggling families. Providing resources to communities who are severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic has been the main priority of the House Democratic majority since the beginning of this crisis — and we must act quickly for families who can't wait another day for help.

Next week, we will be writing the legislation to create a path to the final passage of the Biden American Rescue Plan so that you and your family get the relief you deserve before the end of February.

While we work in Congress to bring relief to all Americans, we are also working on the ground in Florida's 9th District to provide constituents with up-to-date information on COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts.

As of last week, Floridians who are eligible can pre-register for a vaccine appointment. After registration, individuals will be notified when appointments become available in their area. The vaccine is safe and effective, and I encourage everyone eligible to get vaccinated. Our community is counting on you!

Pre-register here

If you live in Polk and Orange Counties, please continue to use their websites. To pre-register in Polk County, click here. To pre-register in Orange County, click here.

In Washington

Ensuring Equitable Distribution of the COVID-19 Vaccine

Rep. Soto Speaks on Equitable Vaccine Distribution

As a member of the Energy & Commerce Committee, I have had the opportunity to advocate for rural communities in our district to be included in vaccination efforts. During a subcommittee hearing this week, I highlighted the disparities faced in Polk and Osceola Counties, as well as our enthusiasm for working with the Biden Administration to expand access.

Writing a Letter to House and Senate Leaders for America's Youth

Members of the Future Forum Caucus, a group of young Members of Congress who focus on issues important to younger Americans, wrote a letter to House and Senate leaders urging them to include provisions that address the student loan crisis and economic impact payment qualifications in the next COVID-19 relief package. It is crucial for our youth to be considered in any economic recovery plan!

Read the letter here

Recalling the Events of January 6th

On Thursday, Members of Congress were given the opportunity to come together and share our accounts of the events that took place during the January 6th insurrection. I did so in the form of a poem titled "A Bird's Eye View of Insurrection."

In the District

Working with the Biden Administration to Boost Vaccine Allotments in Florida

Florida's vaccine allotment rose by 16% this week! We look forward to working with the Biden Administration in the coming months to secure more vaccines for our state.

Currently, we are in phase 1, which means the vaccine is available for long term care facility residents and staff, persons 65 years of age and older, and healthcare personnel with direct patient contact.

In March, Florida will begin distributing the vaccine to critical organizations (as identified by the governor) and vulnerable populations who are at risk of severe illness.

During phase 3 in April, our hope is that the vaccine will be available to the general public.

As we continue receiving updates, we will communicate with our constituents to make sure everyone has the opportunity to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

I have been vaccinated and urge you to do so once you are eligible!

Securing Federal Resources for COVID-19 Vaccine Costs

We are thrilled that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded Florida $245 million to cover 100% of our vaccination program costs. Costs can include equipment for vaccine storage, personal protective equipment, emergency medical care, and more.

COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution in the District

As COVID-19 infections rise in Central Florida, we are working with local officials to provide up-to-date information on vaccinations. For more information on your county's distribution plans, please visit the websites linked below.

Orange County

Osceola County

Polk County

(305) 351-9531

(866) 779-6121

(863) 298-7500

Demand for the COVID-19 vaccine is far in excess of the supply the state has received so far. It is anticipated that additional supplies will be coming soon. Florida has many sites that are providing COVID-19 vaccines to eligible persons. The state is prioritizing persons 65 years of age and older, health care personnel with direct patient contact, and residents and staff of long-term care facilities. Please be aware that some locations are only serving very specific populations, such as frontline health care workers. Appointments may be required and vaccine availability will vary from day to day and week to week, as we work to provide vaccines to the most vulnerable first.

Full list of vaccine sites

In the face of unprecedented challenges, Central Floridians in our community have shown immense courage. From the heroic efforts of our healthcare workers and first responders to our essential workers and teachers, each of you has helped our community get through the coronavirus crisis. I am proud to be your representative and look forward to our continued efforts to improve our district.

In Community,