Protecting Central Florida’s Environment

Dear friends and neighbors,

This week, the Kissimmee River Wild Scenic River Act passed out of the House of Representatives. This bill adds the Kissimmee River to the list of potential additions to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System and directs the Secretary of Interior to complete a study of the Kissimmee River within three years.

On Wednesday, the Puerto Rico Status Act was passed in the Natural Resources Committee. After more than 120 years, we are honored to be part of such a historic step to help Puerto Ricans determine their future. The people of Puerto Rico deserve to have the opportunity to choose statehood or other options to resolve their political status.

Gas has finally started dropping to $3.99 or less in Central Florida. Even facing the Ukraine war, we are increasing production both at home and with our allies, releasing one million barrels a day from our strategic reserves, and holding oil companies accountable for price gouging.

Moreover, I voted to pass the Right to Contraception Act which increases access to contraception nationwide. After the overturning of Roe v. Wade, it is imperative that we increase women's access to health services and contraceptives. I was also proud to support the Respect for Marriage Act, which passed the House this week and would protect same-sex and interracial marriages by enshrining both into law. We owe it to families to defend their right to live freely and marry the person they love.

Earlier this week, President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19. We wish him a speedy recovery and good health. We are all grateful he is only experiencing mild symptoms thanks for being fully vaccinated and boosted. Remember to visit vaccines.gov to find a vaccination site and stay safe.

Missed last week's newsletter? Click here to catch up

Poll of the Week

Do you support the Respect for Marriage Act?

Yes

Select

In Washington D.C.

Protecting the Kissimmee River

Our Kissimmee River Wild and Scenic River bill passed out of the House of Representatives. As we continue working to improve our environment, we must ensure that this natural treasure is protected to ensure clean water, allow for recreational opportunities, and preserve wildlife for now and future generations.

Advancing the Puerto Rico Status Act

The landmark Puerto Rico Status Act passed out of committee this week. After the Natural Resources Committee markup, we are one step closer to allowing the people of Puerto Rico to determine their political future after 120 years. This week, democracy wins!

Decreasing Gas Prices for Florida

The facts are clear: sustained 30+ day decrease in the price of gas is great news for families. It’s important progress in giving drivers more breathing room – saving them $25 per month. Now, it's time for oil companies to do their part to help America lower prices at the pump.

Ensuring the Right to Data Privacy

The Energy and Commerce Committee passed the American Data Privacy and Protection Act to establish national internet privacy rights and security, protections against discriminatory data use, options to turn off targeted ads, and data protection for children and teens.

Passing a Minibus Package to Create Thousands of New Jobs

The House passed a Minibus package that aims to create thousands of good-paying American jobs, rebuild our nation’s infrastructure, expand access to safe and affordable housing, invest in clean energy, honor our veterans' sacrifice, and more.

Supporting the Right to Contraception Act

The U.S. Supreme Court and House Republicans have made clear their intent to restrict Americans’ fundamental freedoms to make personal decisions about their bodies, lives, and futures — including the court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade. This week, I voted to support the Right To Contraception Act to enshrine this right into law.

Passing the Respect for Marriage Act

As a member of the Equality Caucus, I was proud to support the Respect for Marriage Act. This legislation will ensure critical protections for same-sex and interracial marriages. Love is love!

First Lady Olena Zelenska's Address to Congress

In her sobering address to Congress this week, First Lady Olena Zelenska's reminded us that we must continue supporting Ukraine's defense against the tyranny of Vladimir Putin. Ukraine's fight for freedom and democracy is our fight.

In the District

Delivering Affordable Housing to Orlando

We are delivering $58 million from the American Rescue Plan for Orlando’s 2023 budget to help address the affordable housing crisis and homelessness. This funding will be used to build more affordable housing and upgrade our rapid rehousing center.

Highlighting Federal Funds for MCO

Team Soto attended today’s Infrastructure Law press conference at Orlando International Airport's Terminal C. There, we spoke about the importance of the $50 million federal grant to complete the four remaining Terminal C gates at MCO. This is what building a better America looks like.

Visiting TX-23 with BPC and Rep. Tony Gonzales

I was honored to join the Bipartisan Policy Center's trip to Texas' 23rd Congressional District with my friend Representative Tony Gonzales. What an amazing district with a rich history and culture! We paid our respects at Uvalde, visited a local air force base, and heard from Border Patrol and local ranchers at the southern border.

Celebrating Colombia's Independence

On Wednesday, Team Soto was present at the celebration of Colombia’s independence hosted by Consul Claudia M. Bustamente and the Colombian Consulate. We are proud to celebrate the heritage, culture, and independence of Colombia.

Internet for All

America runs on high-speed internet. It powers our economy and supports education. It fosters better public health. It connects loved ones and strengthens social ties. It helps citizens connect with their democracy and one another. But not everyone is connected. Too many Americans are cut off from the opportunities that high-speed internet makes possible. That’s why the Biden Administration working to bring high-speed internet to all Americans. Click here for more information.

Affordable Connectivity Program

The U.S. Department of Treasury has collected websites associated with grantees’ Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) programs to help tenants and landlords find rental assistance programs in their local areas. Click here for more information.

Capitol Tours

The Capitol Visitor Center welcomes visitors from across the United States and around the world. All tours, programs and activities are free of charge. Click here for more information.

COVID-19 Resources

COVID-19 Vaccines by County

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

Florida has many sites that are providing COVID-19 vaccines. Appointments may be required and vaccine availability will vary from day to day and week to week.

Click here for a full list of vaccine sites in Florida

Click here for a vaccine finder

Resources for Veterans

We encourage you to take a moment today to check in with a veteran this week. You can direct them to mental health resources listed here.

Rental Assistance for Central Floridians

The programs below have been established to help residents in Polk, Orange, and Osceola Counties with rental and housing costs.

Orlando COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance

For additional information and to apply, please click here.
Eligible households can receive up to 18 months of unpaid rent.

Orange County Emergency Rental Assistance Program

For additional information and to apply, please click here.

Osceola County Emergency Rental Assistance/Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention

To access assistance, please click here.

Osceola County COVID-19 Elderly & Disabled Housing/ Utility Assistance Program

Up to six months of assistance available
Must be 62 years of age or older or permanently disabled
Paper applications only. Packets will be available at Osceola County Human Services (1392 E. Vine Street, Kissimmee, FL 34744) on:
Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (8:30 a.m. – noon)
Tuesdays and Thursdays (1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
Payments will be made directly to the mortgage company/landlord and utility company
If you have any questions regarding the program, please call 407-742-8403

What’s needed?
Driver’s license or state of Florida identification card
Current lease or mortgage statement in applicants/co-applicants name
Utility bill in applicants/co-applicants name
W-9 form from landlord, property manager, or mortgage company
SSDI eligibility documentation

Polk County Eviction Prevention Program

For additional information and to apply, please click here.

Emergency Rental Assistance Programs

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that replaces the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB Program) to help low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices. For more information, visit this website.

Any household with an individual who receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is eligible to receive discounted internet service through the ACP. Social Security doesn’t count ACP assistance as income or a resource for SSI purposes. Receipt of this assistance will not affect your SSI payment. Click here for more information from the Social Security Administration.

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,