Why I voted...

113th Congress

Complete Voting Record     Sponsored Legislation

NDAA FY15
I voted against the $577.1 billion NDAA for FY 15. Last May I supported the House version of the NDAA because it increased troop pay by 1.8% as opposed to this version’s increase of just 1%. This version also included provisions that would authorize the training and equipping of Syrian rebels. I firmly oppose the training and equipping of the Syrian rebels because the weapons we provide can easily fall into the hands of terrorist organizations such as al-Nusra and ISIL. As has been shown in the past no amount of careful training and vetting by U.S. military has been able to prevent “green on blue attacks” by Afghan soldiers and police on U.S. troops. This newer version of the NDAA that passed the house also did not contain my amendments that were included in the House version that would prevent the use of drones against American citizens unless they were found to be an imminent threat to the United States of America. Unfortunately this version of the NDAA did not maintain the promises that have been made to our soldiers in terms of pay and benefits and continues further embroils our Armed Services in conflicts around the globe without the appropriate authorization for use of force.  I will work hard to make sure that we take care of those who have answered the call to join military and their families and to provide for the common defense of our great nation. Additionally, this thousand page legislation was brought out at the last minute and, in my opinion, Members were not given ample time to properly read through the text before the vote.

 

H.R. 3202 – The Essential Transportation Worker Identification Credential Assessment Act: YES (passed)
On July 28, 2014, I voted for H.R. 3202, which requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to prepare a comprehensive security assessment of the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program. The TWIC program was established to ensure secure access control to port facilities and vessels by collecting biometric information of all transportation workers with unescorted access to secure areas. Given the importance of national security, especially at ports and vessels in Florida, this was an easy vote for me. I am glad to see this bill pass with a unanimous vote.

H.R. 3107 – The Homeland Security Cybersecurity Boots-on-the-Ground Act: NO (passed)
On July 28, 2014, I voted against H.R. 3107, which would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish cybersecurity occupation classifications, assess the cybersecurity workforce, and develop a strategy to address identified gaps in the cybersecurity workforce. While this bill may be well intentioned, it does not offer any reasonable solutions. DHS has been plagued with waste and disorganization since its inception after 9/11/01. Spending more taxpayer dollars and creating more bureaucracy are not viable solutions to these problems; therefore, I voted against this bill.

H.Res. 676 - Providing for authority to initiate litigation for actions by the President or other executive branch officials inconsistent with their duties under the Constitution of the United States: YES (passed)
On July 30, 2014, I voted in favor of H.Res. 676 in order to hold President Obama accountable to the Constitution and the rule of law. The Constitution clearly defines the roles of the three branches of government and leaves no room for encroachment from one branch into the others. However, the executive branch under the Obama Administration has grown exponentially and has made many attempts to legislate without Congress, despite the requirement that the executive branch must faithfully execute the laws passed by the legislative branch. By rewriting laws and choosing which ones he will enforce, the President is doing exactly what the framers were fighting against. Therefore, we must hold him accountable and restore the separation of powers. I look forward to a healthy constitutional debate in court and hope for yet another decision that defends the Constitution – following the decision against President Obama's unconstitutional recess appointments and Obamacare's unconstitutional violation of Hobby Lobby's freedom of religion.

H.R. 5230 – Making supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2014: YES (passed)
On August 1, 2014, I voted in support of H.R. 5230, which will strengthen border security and seek to end the current crisis on our southern border. This final bill was much stronger than the original supplemental because all the funding is paid for, it deploys the National Guard, and it redirects foreign aid from Central America to help fund the border. In addition, this legislation amends the trafficking law that prevented DHS from deporting non-Mexican/Canadian children, allows border agents to access federal land, and provides additional border agents and immigration judges to streamline the processing and removal of illegal immigrants. By delaying August recess and voting well into the night, this passage of this legislation is a strong message that the House is committed to ending the crisis on our porous southern border and doing so in a smart, fiscally responsible manner.

H.R. 5272 - To prohibit certain actions with respect to deferred action for aliens not lawfully present in the United States, and for other purposes: YES (passed)
On August 1, 2014, I voted in favor of H.R. 5272, which prohibits any expansion of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program or authorization of new deferred action programs for any class of aliens not in lawful immigration status after July 30, 2014. This bill also prohibits the government, unless authorized by law, from authorizing any alien to work in the U.S. if they do not have lawful status. DACA was instituted by President Obama despite the fact that it has never existed in law. This program goes beyond prosecutorial discretion, which applies only to individual cases and not to entire classes of people. In order to express the will of the American people, DACA and similar programs must go through proper congressional debate and lawmaking procedure. One swipe of a pen by one man is hardly the will of the people, nor is it in line with the Constitution. I urge Senator Reid to call the Senate back in session to pass this bill, as well as the border supplemental. Our national security depends on it.

S. 1044 - World War II Memorial Prayer Act of 2013: Yes (Passed)
On June 23, 2014, I voted in favor of passing S. 1044, the World War II Memorial Prayer Act of 2013. S. 1044 directs the Secretary of the Interior to install a plaque or an inscription with the words that President Franklin D. Roosevelt prayed with the United States on June 6, 1944, the morning of D-Day, at the World War II memorial in the District of Columbia.  I supported this bill because the men who took part in the Normandy landings faced overwhelming odds and many would not return home safely.  President Roosevelt understood the gravity of the situation and united the nation in prayer.  He asked God to protect the soldiers and give them strength to persevere. For those that would perish, he asked that God would welcome them into his kingdom.  This prayer played a momentous role for many Americans on D-Day and rightfully deserves its place in history.  On June 30, 2014, President Obama signed S. 1044 into law.
 
H.R. 3136: Advancing Competency-Based Education Demonstration Project Act of 2014: Yes (Passed)
I voted to pass H.R. 3136, which amends the student assistance provision of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Education to select institutions of higher education (IHEs) for voluntary participation in Competency-Based Education Demonstration Programs.  Participating schools will be eligible to continue to receive federal student aid and will have the ability to offer competency-based education rather than standard credit hour requirements for student graduation.  Today’s graduates are leaving college with higher student loan debt than any other generation.  In allowing students to earn a degree based on competency, students will have the opportunity to spend less time in school, enter into the workforce more quickly, and reduce their overall incurred debt.
 
H.R. 4984 - Empowering Students through Enhanced Financial Counseling Act: Yes (Passed)
On July 24, 2014, I voted to pass the Empowering Students through Enhanced Financial Counseling Act.  This bill requires institutions of higher education (IHEs) to provide annual counseling to student borrowers under the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan program beginning at or prior to the student's acceptance of the loan. An explanation that the borrower is not required to accept the full amount of the loan, information on the annual and aggregate limits on their loan, information regarding the borrower’s anticipated monthly payment, and an explanation of the grace period are just a few of the new requirements IHEs must meet.  This bill also directs the Secretary to maintain a consumer tested online counseling tool to help students understand their rights and obligations in borrowing Direct Loans and receiving Pell Grants. Students should enter into loan agreements fully understanding what their repayment obligations are, ways to budget for their repayment, and how a  default will impact their credit score; H.R. 4984 accomplishes this.
 
H.R. 10 - Success and Opportunity through Quality Charter Schools Act: Yes (Passed)
On May 9, 2014, I voted with 359 of my colleagues to pass H.R. 10.  This bill reauthorizes the charter school program under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and allows the Secretary of Education to carry out a charter school program which supports charter school setup and replication, assists in accessing credit to acquire and renovate facilities and carry out national activities to support charter school development, dissemination of best practices and evaluation of their impact.  Public charter schools are publicly-funded elementary or secondary schools that can offer an alternative to students that are educationally disadvantaged, living in low-performing public school districts.  I believe every child deserves an exemplary education and this provides them that opportunity.
 
H.R. 3230 - Veterans’ Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act of 2014: Yes (Passed)
The most recent scandals pertaining to the Veterans’ Health Administration (VHA) has proven that there is a severe institutional inadequacy in the service provided to our nation’s veterans by the VA.   This act provided immediate relief to veterans who have been waiting to receive care for extended periods of time.  This provision also applies to future veterans who experience delays while the VHA/VA makes the necessary programmatic and supervisory changes that will reduce the backlog and prevent future ones.  H.R. 3230 passed the House, with my support, by a vote of 420 – 5 and was signed into law by the President on August 1, 2014.  Below are just a few of the highlights from this act.
Establishes a Commission on Access to Care – VA Secretary and other agency heads will be required to implement Commission recommendation.

This was an issue because previously in March 2014 Government Accountability Office (GAO) reported that billing officials experienced “lengthy delays” in the processing of their claims.  This behavior on behalf of the VA leaves non-VA entities hesitant to provide care and hinders access to care for veterans.

• Veterans Choice Card - $10 billion in the bill is meant to ensure the veterans who had/are experiencing lengthy delays in care are able to go to non-VA entities to obtain care.
• If veterans meet the requirements, they may seek care for up to 60 days through a non-VA entity.  This covers primary, specialty, and other medical services.  It may be extended, but the Secretary must approve the request first.
• Addresses “prompt payment rule” – VA transfers the authority to pay for hospital care, medical service, and other health care furnished through non-VA providers from Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) to the Chief Business Office of the VHA and VA
• Inspector General (IG) is required to submit the top 5 occupations where there are staffing shortages and begin direct recruiting for those positions.
• Increases graduate residency positions at the VA to 1, 5000.
• Authorizes Secretary to carry out major medical facility leases, but also requires the Secretary to comply with Office of Management and Budget’s budgetary treatment of lease-purchase agreements as well as the Anti-Deficiency Act, which has not been getting done in recent years.
• Requires an independent assessment of hospital care and medical services.
• Extends until 2017 the pilot program on the effectiveness of providing assisted living services to veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
• Increases accountability for mobile medical units (MMUs) by standardizing requirements for operations and requiring an annual report to Congress. Requires increased access for veterans in rural communities.
• Extends the Access Received Closer to Home (ARCH) pilot program for two additional years (for veterans 40+ miles from the nearest facility)
• Health Care services provided related to military sexual trauma (MST)
• Previously care excluded Guard and Reserve who were assaulted while serving on inactive duty for training.  This bill now makes them eligible for care.
• Directs the VA-DOD Joint Executive Committee to submit an assessment of processes and procedures on transitioning care from DOD to VA – includes assessment on treatment of services available to men vs women who experience MST
• Post 9/11 GI Bill & Scholarships
• Requires public institutions of higher learning to charge no more than in-state-tuition rate in order to receive GI Bill payments
• Expands the Marine Gunnery Sgt. John David Fry Scholarship to include surviving spouses. Previously, only children of a deceased service member would qualify.
• Makes improvement to the “Our Doctors” website
• Requires additional information on the doctors at the VA so veterans know who their doctor is, where they graduated from, where they did their residency, and other information deemed of importance by the Secretary

H.R. 4899 Lowering Gasoline Prices to Fuel an America that Works Act: YES (Passed)

This bill will responsibly develop our domestic oil and natural gas resources. By expanding our domestic energy production, we will be addressing our rising energy costs and helping create good-paying American jobs. This in turn will strengthen our economy and improve our energy security. This bill increases offshore production by requiring the Administration to move forward with new offshore energy production in areas containing the most oil and natural gas resources: requires the Secretary of the Interior to conduct oil and natural gas lease sales that have been delayed or cancelled by the Obama Administration and implements a fair, equitable revenue sharing program for all coastal states.  Increases onshore energy production by streamlining government red-tape and regulations: reforms the leasing process for onshore oil and natural gas projects on federal lands to eliminate unnecessary delays; reforms the process for energy permitting; sets clear rules for the development of U.S. oil shale resources; gives the Secretary of the Interior the authority to conduct Internet-based auctions for onshore leases; and ensures that oil and natural gas resources in the National Petroleum Reserve‐Alaska are developed and transported in a timely, efficient manner. For these reasons, I voted in favor of the bill.

Leadership Elections for the U.S. House of Representatives Republican Caucus

In the recent Leadership elections to replace Majority Leader Eric Cantor, I voted in favor of Congressman Labrador. I also voted in favor of Congressman Scalise for Majority Whip. I selected these two because of their conservative record and willingness to hold officials accountable.
 

H.R. 4870 - The FY 2015 Defense Appropriations Bill: YES (Passed)

The bill funds key readiness programs, authorizes salaries and pay raises for military personnel, maintains 100% of troop housing costs, and provides medical care for our soldiers, their families, and retirees. I am also proud of an amendment I introduced and subsequently passed that would prevent the United States from providing any Man-Portable Air-Defense Systems (MANPADS) to rebels fighting in Syria. With so many combatants involved in that conflict, sending rebels easily concealed shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles could come back to hurt us. Distributing these weapons to Syrian rebels only increases the chances that these weapons will end up in the wrong hands and be used against Americans in the region. We've seen an influx of fighters and weapons flow from Syria to Iraq as the situation worsens. At a time when we are trying to get our personnel out of Iraq safely, why would we provide weapons that could be used against them?

In addition to this amendment, I was also in favor of these amendments:
 
1.      Lee (D-CA) amendment that would prohibit funds to implement the 2002 AUMF against Iraq. For far too long Congress has not exercised its Constituionally mandated authority to declare war and direct how the United States conducts and funds that war. This amendment will make sure no funds can be used for combat operations in Iraq without first getting consent from Congress.

2.      Walorski (R-IN) amendment that prohibits any funds being used to transfer or release detainees from Guantanamo Bay to Yemen. We need to make sure the President cannot circumvent U.S. law and transfer more detainees without first coming to Congress so we can analyze the potential consequences such an action could have on U.S. national security. The Administration needs to stop picking and choosing which laws it follows, and until the President stops that I will work with my colleagues to make sure he does not have the funds to implement his own agenda over the laws and objections of American citizens.

H.R. 4870 will ensure that our soldiers and American interests are protected. I hope the President heeds what was passed in the House and will start working with Congress instead of against it and the Constitution.

H.R. 4681 – Intelligence Authorization for Fiscal Years 2014 and 2015: NO (Passed)
On May 30, 2014 I voted not to support H.R. 4681. While the intelligence community plays a vital role in our national security, it desperately needs oversight and transparency. Unfortunately, this intelligence authorization bill simply maintains the status quo and makes no efforts for reform. As we have seen repeatedly, the intelligence community has struggled to balance national security and personal liberty. I look forward to legislation that protects both, instead of favoring the former over the latter.

H.R. 4660, Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act: YES (Passed)
In the early morning of May 30, 2014 the House brought its third appropriations bill to the floor. During consideration I voted for an additional $1.3 billion in spending reductions to the final product. Although there were areas in which the bill could have been improved further, the final product was one that invested in our nation's security, our economic engine, and scientific research and development. Specifically, the legislation funds such agencies as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the US Marshals Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the National Science Foundation, and the Census Bureau. Again, this is an example of Congress setting spending priorities that will place our nation on a more fiscally responsible path. Furthermore, the CJS bill continues its initiatives to offer incentives to US companies to bring jobs back to America and it also urges U.S. trade agencies to more aggressively monitor and take action against China’s state-owned companies that are manipulating the market and hindering job creation in the United States. I will continue to fight for more cost savings measures while in Congress that will result in a higher pay out to the United States at a reduced cost.

Other amendments I voted for would prohibit funds from being used by the Department of Justice (DOJ), to prevent states from implementing their own state laws that authorize the use, distribution, possession, or cultivation of medical marijuana. Medical marijuana is a states’ rights issue and should be left to them.  Also, I voted to prohibit funds from DOJ’s Office of Justice Programs-State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance from going to Sanctuary Cities. If cities are going to circumvent U.S. Immigration laws, they will not be able to do it on the U.S. taxpayers’ dime.

USA FREEDOM Act: NO (Passed)

This legislation, as originally intended, was to rein in the rampant collection of meta data by the National Security Agency. I was proudly an original cosponsor of this legislation because I want to reform the NSA and stop the unconstitutional collection of data on our citizens. However, after multiple revisions and Administration input this legislation was weakened in most areas, and in fact may do more harm than good. The language went from forceful to vague, and given past history with the NSA I cannot, in good conscience, allow a bill with such abiguity get signed into law. That simply gives license for rampant abuse. Restrictions on the NSA need to be stronger, not weakened. For this reason, I voted no.

The National Defense Authorization Act: YES (Passed)

This legislation was the authorization for the salary for our men and women in uniform, their equipment and munitions, and ensures military readiness. It also prohibits the Administration’s proposed rate increase to TRICARE, and blocks National Guard reductions. I voted for this legislation to give our troops the proper care they need, protect veteran’s benefits, and to protect the outstanding job our Florida National Guard does. I also introduced an amendment that was included in the legislation that prohibits drone strikes against American citizens. Additionally, the legislation was $45 billion less than the President’s budget request and $30 billion less than last year’s request.

I also helped introduce the following amendments:

         1. Yoho/Holt Drone Amendment: transfers all armed drone authority to DOD to stop CIA paramilitary operations and ensure proper accountability and oversight.

         2.  Lee/Broun AUMF Amendment: gives Congress authority to review and reauthorize activities carried out by the Administration under the Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) and repeal those it does not wish to reauthorize.

         3. Conyers/Amash MANPADS Amendment to prohibit funds for the transfer of man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) to anyone involved in the Syrian conflict.

Additionally, I introduced legislation with Congresswoman Barbara Lee that would get rid of the Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) and allow Congress to vote on each provision of the policy separately. This would get rid of the authority used to justify the indefinite detention of American citizens, while ensuring that terror suspects do not receive habeas corpus or any other rights earned by an American citizen.

This is also a reason I voted against Congressman Smith’s amendment regarding AUMF authority. While I agree we need to get rid of the AUMF authority, we need to ensure proper mechanisms are in place to ensure that terrorists do not receive our rights or are allowed to be transferred to prisons in the United States. The legislation I introduced with Congresswoman Lee gets rid of indefinite detention for American citizens while ensuring we are still able to properly combat terrorists.

H.R. 2548 Electrify Africa: YES (Passed)

This legislation encourages private sector involvement in Africa's electrification process. It counters the Administration's goal of green energy initiatives abroad by allowing the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) to support coal-fueled plants overseas. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that this legislation will save the U.S taxpayer $86 million in the next five years. Lack of electricity is one of the largest trade barriers the United States has with the African continent, rather than continuing the perpetual cycle of direct aid we should shift focus to allow private companies to invest in these countries. By encouraging trade, not aid, we create a mutually beneficial relationship to both economies. This legislation also increases oversight on OPIC and other aid and investment agencies. This legislation also combats the Administration's overseas green energy agenda. In fact, certain groups urged a NO vote on this legislation in the name of "climate justice."

H.R. 2203 To provide for the award of a gold medal on behalf of Congress to Jack Nicklaus, in recognition of his service to the Nation in promoting excellence, good sportsmanship, and philanthropy, as amended: NO (passed)

On May 20, 2014, I voted alongside ten of my colleagues against the passage of H.R. 2203.  While I recognize and respect Mr. Nicklaus’ contributions to the sport of golf, our national debt exceeds $17 trillion and I do not believe this is the time to authorize this project.

H.R. 3530 – Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA): YES (Passed)

On May 20, 2014, I voted in favor of the JVTA. This comprehensive bill will create more resources for trafficking victims, improve law enforcement and prosecution of traffickers, and reduce the demand for trafficking by harshening laws and penalties. This is one of five bipartisan bills passed by the House of Representatives that will improve the fight to end human trafficking. I am a proud cosponsor of all of these bills and I look forward to seeing their swift movement through the Senate and Oval Office.

H.R. 4225 – Stop Advertising Victims of Exploitation (SAVE) Act: YES (Passed)

 On May 20, 2014, I voted for the SAVE Act. This bill seeks to close Internet marketplaces that host advertisements for the commercial sexual exploitation of women and children. It will do this by making it unlawful for websites to knowingly distribute advertising that offers commercial sex acts. This much needed legislation targets websites like backpage.com that openly advertise commercial sex. These advertisements, much like human trafficking in general, are outrageous and completely unacceptable. I applaud the House's efforts to put an end to modern day slavery and I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass all of these bills immediately.

H.R. 627 - National Park Service 100th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act: NO (Passed)

On April 29, 2014, I voted alongside thirteen of my colleagues against the passage of H.R. 627.  Although well intentioned, the National Park Service 100th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act offers no assurances that the upfront costs incurred by taxpayers would be recouped through the sale of the commemorative coins. At a time when the national debt exceeds $17 trillion, now is not the time to take unnecessary gambles with American’s money.

H.R. 863 - To establish the Commission to Study the Potential Creation of a National Women’s History Museum Act of 2013 NO (Passed)

                     On May 7, 2014, I voted against passing H.R. 863.  I want to be clear that my decision to vote against the commission was not one based on gender.  I am fully supportive of recognizing the great women in America who have made major contributions to the betterment of our society, but this bill sets the stage for an incredibly costly project that Americans simply cannot afford to fund at this time.

H.Res. 565: Calling on Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr., to appoint a special counsel to investigate the targeting of conservative non-profit groups by the Internal Revenue Service (Jordan, R-OH): YES (Passed)

On May 7, 2014 I voted to support H.Res. 565, which pushes for a fair and unbiased investigation into IRS targeting of conservative groups. After findings by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) that the IRS had indeed singled out "Tea Party" and "Patriot" applicants for 501(c)(4) tax exempt status, along with admissions and apologies from IRS officials, time is past due for an independent investigation.

Given the close and questionable relationships between many Department of Justice officials and the Administration, AG Holder must turn to an outside special counsel in order for a truly balanced investigation to take place. I hope AG Holder listens to the people's House in ensuring transparency.

H.Res. 574: Resolution Recommending that the House of Representatives find Lois G. Lerner, Former Director, Exempt Organizations, Internal Revenue Service, in contempt of Congress for refusal to comply with a subpoena duly issued by the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform (Issa, R-CA): YES (Passed)

On May 7, 2014 I voted in favor of H.Res. 574, which recommends that Lois Lerner be held in contempt of Congress for refusing to comply with a subpoena to testify on IRS targeting. After making a voluntary statement at a May 22, 2013 hearing, Ms. Lerner waived her Fifth Amendment privilege. Therefore, her subsequent refusal to testify has left the House with no choice but to hold this contempt vote. This all could have been avoided if Ms. Lerner had simply fulfilled her constitutional duty to the American people and relayed her knowledge of IRS targeting. Regardless of political affiliation or seniority, no one is above congressional oversight and accountability to the American people. This resolution is proof of that.

H.R. 4487 – Legislative Branch Appropriations Act: YES (Passed)

On May 1, 2014, I voted for H.R. 4487, which will fund the legislative branch through FY 2015. This bill will provide funding for Congress, as well as support agencies, visitor services, and Capitol operations. Since Congress has sole responsibility for funding the federal government, it is important that we set an example of fiscal responsibility. In a time when our debt is spiraling out of control, all areas of the government must commit to making tough decisions, including the legislature. I am pleased that the funding level for FY 2015 - $3.3 billion - is the same as it was in FY 2014 and 3.7% below the President's request. This sets a strong example that Members of the House are committed to making fiscally responsible decisions.

HR 4152, Support for the Sovereignty, Integrity, Democracy, and Economic Stability of Ukraine Act: NO (Passed)

I voted against the $1 billion loan guarantee for Ukraine because I believe we are too in debt and guaranteeing loans is not the best way to solve the crisis over in Ukraine. It is also important to note that we would be on the line for that money if Ukraine defaulted.  There are better ways to spend those funds. And simply throwing money at the problem is not the way to go – what we need are real solutions.

HR 4118, Suspending the Individual Mandate Penalty Law Equals Fairness Act: YES (Passed)

On March 5, 2014 I voted in favor of HR 4118. This Act amends the Internal Revenue Code to delay until 2015 the imposition of the monthly penalty amount on individual taxpayers for failure to purchase minimum essential health care coverage. The Affordable Care Act was rushed through Congress and is having disastrous consequences for the American taxpayer, the tax imposed on folks who do not meet the minimum essential coverage is just one of many of those consequences.

H. Res. 488, Supporting the People of Venezuela as they protest peacefully for democracy, a reduction in violent crime and calling for an end to recent violence: YES (Passed)

I was an original cosponsor of H. Res. 488 and believe it is important that the people of Venezuela who are struggling against their government know that we stand behind them as they peacefully protest for a better life. H. Res. 488 Supports the people of Venezuela in their pursuit of freedom of expression and assembly to promote democratic principles in Venezuela. I deplore the violence and political intimidation perpetrated against opposition leaders and protesters in Venezuela and the growing use of politically motivated criminal charges to intimidate the political opposition.

H.R. 357, the GI Bill Tuition Fairness: YES (Passed) 

I voted for HR 357 because under current the law, veterans looking to attend a public institution outside of their state of legal residence could have to cover the balance of tuition and fees from a source other than G.I. Bill benefits and this bill will rectify that. It will allow veterans to attend schools where they are not a resident and to apply their GI benefits. According to the College Board, the average non-resident tuition rate at public 4-year schools is $21,706 while resident rates average $8,655.  That is an average 250% increase over in-state tuition rates and in many states, the increase is about 300% for non-residents.  This bill will reduce what is often a $24,000 yearly tuition and fee bill to under $9,000 on average. Because of the nature of military service, veterans often have a difficult time establishing residency for purposes of obtaining in-State tuition rates. H.R. 357 will expand education opportunities for veterans by allowing them to attend the state-run higher-education institution of their choice at the in-state tuition rate. It would do this by requiring public schools to charge in-state tuition rates to all veterans in order for the school to be eligible to receive G.I. Bill education payments. This requirement would take effect Aug. 1, 2014. G.I. Bill students enrolling before Aug. 1, 2014, at schools that choose not to charge veterans in-state tuition could still apply their benefits toward tuition at those institutions.  This is a great step in helping our veterans who have sacrificed the most for our nation achieve a great education and lead productive fruitful civilian lives.

H.R. 1791, the Medical Preparedness Allowable Use Act: YES (Passed) 

I voted in favor of HR 1791 which amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to authorize the use of Urban Area Security Initiative and State Homeland Security Grant Program funding for enhancing medical preparedness, medical surge capacity, and mass prophylaxis capabilities, including the development and maintenance of an initial pharmaceutical stockpile, including medical kits, and diagnostics sufficient to protect first responders, their families, immediate victims, and vulnerable populations from a chemical or biological event. It is important that we protect first responders and ensure our stockpiles in the case of an attack or terrible disaster so civilians can be helped.

S. 540 Debt Ceiling Suspension: NO: (Passed)

This legislation suspends the debt ceiling until March 15, 2016. I voted against this legislation because it does nothing to tackle the underlying problem we face, our massive debt. Raising or suspending the debt ceiling epitomizes the “kicking the can down the road” mentality that has gotten us to trillions in debt in the first place. I came to Congress to stop that type of legislating. Rather than continually raising our borrowing authority, we should limit the amount we spend in the first place.  Even worse, this legislation suspends the debt limit. This is tantamount to handing the Executive Branch a blank check. By not binding the Executive to a limit, and instead simply a date, Congress authorized the Treasury to borrow as much as needed to finance all government spending during the period of suspension. This means that taxpayers will not know for sure how much more borrowing Congress authorized. This type of spending is absolutely wrong, and for these reasons I voted no.

S. 25 Military COLA Fix: YES (Passed)

This legislation restored the 1% back to Military COLAs that were changed as a result of the Murray/Ryan Budget. It also instituted important reforms to ensure future viability of the retirement program. While I voted in favor of the budget, I was not pleased with the change to Military COLAs. Therefore, I cosponsored 3 different pieces of legislation to restore the 1% and repeal the change. I am pleased that the hard work of my colleagues paid off and that Congress voted to restore the 1% back to the veterans who deserve it.

H.R. 2166 - The Good Samaritan Search and Recovery Act: YES (Passed)
Directs the Secretary of Interior to implement a process to expedite access to federal lands for Good Samaritan individuals or organizations during search and recovery missions. These Good Samaritans would be acting for private purposes outside of the federal government. They would not have to obtain liability insurance as long as they release the federal government from all liability. By reducing the government roadblocks to search and rescue teams, this commonsense bill will encourage more Good Samaritan assistance throughout the country.

H.R. 7 – No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act: YES (Passed)
On January 28, 2014 I voted with my colleagues, in a bipartisan effort, to pass H.R. 7.  I believe that life begins at conception and each child is equally deserving of our support and protection.  Current  law does not allow federal funds to be used for abortion services directly, however, with the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Americans have been presented with new challenges in the fight for life. To address the issues arising from the ACA, this bill prohibits any abortion service conducted by a federal, or District of Columbia, health care facility or employee – including elective abortions in federal prisons.  H.R. 7 prohibits federal funds from being used for any health benefits coverage that includes abortion coverage. This bill then goes a step further by prohibiting tax deductions for abortion related medical expenses.  In addition, H.R. 7 requires insurance providers who receive federal subsidies through participation in the health care exchanges to report to consumers whether or not they will be subject to a surcharge to cover abortion service until the time of purchase. Every child deserves the chance to live, and I will do all I can to see they are not robbed of that opportunity.
 
H.R. 3008 – Land conveyance in Los Padres National Forest, California: YES (Passed)
On January 27, 2014, I voted in favor of H.R. 3008 which gives the Secretary of Agriculture authority to exchange, or convey, approximately five acres within the Los Padres National Forest in California to the White Lotus Foundation. Currently, a short access road that loops into U.S. Forest Service land is the only road that allows White Lotus and the public access from San Marcos Pass Road. There is no other reasonable alternative location for an access road and without this space the White Lotus Foundation will be forced to cease its operations.

H.R. 2642 – Agricultural Act of 2014: YES (Passed)
On January 29, 2014 I voted in favor of H.R. 2642 the Agriculture Act of 2014. This bill effectively stopped the yearly extensions of Nancy Pelosi-era farm and food policy that resulted from a lack of action within Congress. Specifically, the legislation ended the direct payment program to farmers, saves roughly $4 billion from conservation programs by consolidating 23 overlapping programs into 13, saves $8 billion through closing loopholes within the SNAP program, and establishes a pilot program allowing states to engage able-bodied adults in mandatory work programs in order to receive SNAP benefits. It also included two of my amendments that stopped taxpayer funds from going to SNAP recruitment and advertising as well as ends SNAP enrollment for violent crimminals. Although there were provisions included that I did not fully agree with, this bill was a step in the right direction bringing transparency and accountability to many federal programs while supplying certainty to our farmers, ranchers, and consumers. A nation is not truly a nation unless it can supply its citizens with food. The Agriculture Act of 2014 helps make that a reality.
 

H.R. 3547 the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2014 (Passed)

On January 15, 2014 I voted in favor of HR 3547, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2014. This bill reduces spending while ensuring that there will not be another government shutdown over the coarse of the current fiscal year. Specifically, HR 3547 reduces discretionary spending by $21 billion, while providing sequester relief for our servicemen and women. The bill provides a 1% raise to our military personnel, fixes the scheduled reduced increase in pensions for medically discharged military personnel and survivor benefit recipients, and funds a comprehensive plan to eliminate the VA backlog by the end of 2015. Additionally, the legislation eliminates nearly all funding for the Independent Payment Advisory Board within Affordable Care Act, includes funds to combat citrus greening decimating Florida’s citrus industry, reduces staff at the Environmental Protection Agency to the lowest levels since 1989, and cuts spending at the Department of Labor by $449 million. While this legislation is far from perfect, it takes a necessary step in bringing order back to Congress. Legislating by crisis through Continuing Resolutions was not the intention of our Founding Fathers, and not the proper way for our government to function. Doing so gives more authority to the President and the executive branch. Rather, the intention is for the people, through their elected representatives in Congress, to have the power to decide how we invest in our nation. This legislation ensures that.

HR 3811 – Health Exchange Security and Transparency Act: YES (Passed)

I voted for the Health Exchange Security and Transparency Act which requires HHS to notify individuals if their personal information has been stolen or unlawfully accessed through a healthcare exchange. This notification must occur no later than two business days after discovery by the Secretary.  With new reports coming out almost every day of security breaches within the ACA enrollment website this was a commonsense piece of legislation that will require the Administration to notify those whose sensitive information has been compromised.  Americans have already been forced to enroll into a flawed health care system via an even more flawed enrollment website, the last thing Americans should worry about is if sensitive information has been compromised.  Even though I do not agree with the ACA it is imperative we protect Americans from the severe failings of the ACA website.

HR 3362 – Exchange Information Disclosure Act: YES (Passed)

With this vote, I voted to ensure transparency regarding enrollment in the Affordable Care Act. H.R. 3362, the Exchange Information Disclosure Act, requires the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide the American people and Congress weekly reports on the status of HealthCare.gov. These reports will provide key metrics regarding HealthCare.gov, including unique website visits, accounts created, qualified health plan selection, number of Americans who have fully enrolled in an exchange plan by paying their first month’s premium as well as the age of the enrollees, and Medicaid enrollment. This information is important for numerous reasons: it will allow policymakers and the public to assess the law’s progress, it will allow state insurance commissioners to better understand and predict future enrollment trends and prices, and it will hold the administration accountable, rather than allowing information to be released piecemeal, on a delayed basis, or not at all. It is imperative that we know these numbers so we can assess whether or not the required 7 million people have enrolled of which 2.7 million need to be young healthy adults so the risk pools will be properly balanced. If these numbers are not hit then the American taxpayer will be burdened even further with increased costs.

H.R. 2279: The Reducing Excessive Deadline and Obligations Act: YES (Passed)

The House, with my support, passed H.R. 2279, the Reducing Excessive Deadline Obligations Act. This bill combines the text of its namesake, as well as H.R. 2226, the Federal and State Partnership for Environmental Protection Act, and H.R 2318, the Federal Facility Accountability Act. These bills amend the Solid Waste Disposal Act to reduce the EPA's regulations on states and allow states to manage hazardous waste within their territory and work jointly with the EPA during cleanup. This legislation also ensures that the federal government will not be immune from state laws and regulations while operating a facility within the state. This legislation is a step in the right direction for returning environmental regulation back to the states, which is why I strongly support it.
 

H. RES 441- The NDAA: NO (Passed)
On December 12, 2013 I voted against H. Res 441, Providing for concurrence by the House in the Senate Amendments to H.R. 3304 the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal year 2014. I am a firm proponent of securing our nation and providing for those who have sacrificed the most for us—which is one of the reasons I voted for Rep. Ryan (R-WI) and Sen. Murray’s (D-WA) Bipartisan Budget Act which increased the military’s budget and averted across-the-board cuts to our nation’s defense and military.  I could not vote for H. Res 441 because none of the amendments addressed any of the serious problems I was sent to Washington to fix and Members were not able to offer amendments to it as it was brought up under a restricted rule.  One section that was extremely alarming to me was Sec. 1061(a) which authorizes the Secretary of Defense to “establish a center to be known as the ‘Conflict Records Research Center.'" The main purpose of the center, according to the bill text, was to create a “digital research database,” one with the capability to “translate” and facilitate research on “records captured from countries, organizations and individuals, now or once hostile to the United States.” This to me is another massive data collection on American citizens that completely ignores our protected Constitutional rights. For these and other reasons I did not vote for H. Res 441. There is a way for us to be strong on national defense, while respecting our Constitutional rights. I look forward to voting in favor of legislation that does that.

H J RES 59 “Bipartisan Budget Agreement Act”: YES (Passed)
This legislation was a step in the right direction in getting Congress to do its job and return to the regular budgeting process. Although this resolution was not a perfect solution, it still was a good faith effort to address the nation's automatic spending issues and the devastating affect of sequestration on our military readiness. Furthermore, instead of relying on Continuing Resolutions that take power away from the legislative branch, we now have an opportunity to pass funding bills with real reforms – restoring balance to the branches of government. There were multiple provisions included in this measure that I did not agree with, such as the decreased rate in pension growth for retired military under the age of 62. And while I am in favor of Congress finally addressing mandatory spending, I believe there are ways to tackle fraudulent payments in order to offset any decrease in military pensions. That is why I am an original cosponsor of legislation to stop fraudulent payments in the Child Tax Credit program and use the billions saved to restore any decrease in military pensions. Additionally, a number of my colleagues and I are working to ensure that disabled working age veterans are not affected by any decrease as well. Finally, I am working on my own legislation to state that any decrease in pension benefts to military men and women should also be applied to Members of Congress and the Administration. We have a duty to live by the laws that we pass. This budget bill, while not perfect, finally allows Congress to restore funding to the way our Founders intended---with a watchful eye to ensure that money is spent wisely. Years of automatic spending has increased our debt to trillions. This legislation finally puts a stop to that.

H.R. 3309 – the Innovation Act: NO (Passed)

This legislation seeks to put a stop to frivolous patent suits by requiring heightened pleading standards and disclosure of more initial information, including investor and financial data. While legislation to curb patent trolls is necessary, this bill is overly broad and would end up hurting those it should be protecting: universities, small businesses, and independent inventors. The federal government should find ways to encourage and protect innovation, not hamper it.

H.R. 2061 – the Digital Accountability and Transparency Act of 2013: YES (Passed)
This legislation seeks to create government-wide standards for financial data provided by government agencies. It also requires that reports and an updated website (USASpending.gov) are maintained in order to keep the public informed about agency spending. Lastly, H.R. 2061 would require the Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board to oversee and create strategies that will enhance transparency, as well as detect and reduce waste, fraud, and abuse in federal spending. This legislation is long overdue and is a first step in bringing the oversight to federal spending that American taxpayers deserve.

H.R. 2728 – Protecting States' Rights to Promote American Energy Security Act: YES (Passed)
This legislation prohibits the Department of the Interior from enforcing federal regulations on hydraulic fracturing if a state already regulates the industry. If there are no state standards present, the baseline federal standards take effect within the state. This is common sense legislation allowing for the people, with a unique knowledge of their respective states, to decide the level of regulation required of entities engaged in hydraulic fracturing.

H.R. 1900 – Natural Gas Pipeline Permitting Reform Act: YES (Passed)
This piece of legislation directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to make a decision on a requested pipeline project within 12 months of the initial proposal. Due to the massive amounts of red-tape and multiple agencies overseeing these proposals, it is necessary to have concrete time limits in order to force government action.

H.R. 3350 Keep Your Health Plan Act of 2013: YES (Passed)

This legislation permits a health insurance issuer that has current health insurance coverage in the individual market as of January 1, 2013, to continue offering such coverage for sale during 2014 outside of a health care exchange established under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Treats such coverage as a grandfathered health plan for purposes of an individual meeting the requirement to maintain minimum essential health coverage. I voted for this legislation because over 300,000 Floridians have lost their health care plans due to the disastrous Affordable Care Act. The President made a promise to the American people that they would be able to keep their plan, and now many Americans are asking why they were misled. This legislation would help those citizens in keeping the health plan of their choice and helps protect these individuals from the effects of the ACA for another year. While we are still working to protect all Americans from this terrible law, I am happy that this legislation would help many.

H.R. 982 – Furthering Asbestos Claim Transparency (FACT) Act of 2013: YES (Passed)

This legislation seeks to prevent fraud by requiring transparency in the asbestos trust system. This bill will require federal asbestos trusts to submit quarterly reports to the federal bankruptcy courts. The reports will include the claimant’s name, the basis for the claim against the trust, payments made by the trust, and the basis for those payments. This minimal information requirement does not include any confidential medical history. Requiring this type of information, which is already public in other court proceedings, will increase transparency of the trusts, reduce fraud, and ensure that all asbestos victims are recovering their fair share. Right now, there is no accountability in the system and there have been occasions where the same claimant has received multiple awards from various trusts. By bringing transparency to the process, we can ensure those who deserve awards get them and keep con artists and abusers out of the system.

H.R. 2655 – the Lawsuit Abuse Reduction Act (LARA): YES (Passed)

This legislation seeks to restore “teeth” to Rule 11 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure by requiring courts to impose sanctions on parties, law firms, or attorneys that file frivolous lawsuits. Restoring mandatory sanctions for Rule 11 violations will deter frivolous suits from being filed. This bill will protect and save money for many small businesses that are constantly the victim of frivolous lawsuits.

HR 3080 – Water Resources Reform and Development Act: YES (Passed)

This legislation included strong reforms to cut red-tape and streamline government processes in water development projects. The legislation is fully offset by deauthorizing past inactive projects and prevents future backlogs by automatically sun-setting projects that are not acted upon. It also breaks down barriers which prevent private sector investment in order to save tax dollars. This is great reform-minded, cost-saving, legislation that is important to JAXPORT. Florida's ports have contributed $96 billion to our state's economy and employs thousands of individuals. I am happy to support legislation like this that is both fiscally responsible and important to Florida. Additionally, this legislation saved $12 billion by deauthorizing past inactive projects.
 

HR 2374 – Retail Investor Protection Act: YES (Passed)

Prohibits the Department of Labor (DoL) from prescribing any regulation to amend the definition of “fiduciary” under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) until 60 days after the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issues a final rule relating to standards of conduct for brokers and dealers (“broker-dealers”) pursuant to section 913 of the Dodd-Frank Act. This legislation eliminates dual rules from different agencies. Not only are these conflicting rules redundant, but they are confusing and hurt stability in the industry.

HR 992 – Swaps Regulatory Improvement Act: YES (Passed)

This legislation repeals most of Section 716 of the Dodd Frank Act, allowing covered depository institutions to trade swaps. This bill helps streamline the derivatives market that is so important to risk mitigation in other industries.

HR 2775 – Extend the Debt Ceiling and reopen the government, establishes conference on the House and Senate Budgets: NO (Passed)

This legislation provided federal government appropriations until January and pushed the debt ceiling deadline to February. While I am happy the federal government reopened as a consequence of this legislation passing, nothing in this bill leads me to believe that we will not be back in this same place a few months from now. For years, Congress has raised the debt ceiling with little care as to why our tab was so high in the first place. Until we get substantive spending reforms on the front end, we will continue to borrow ourselves deeper and deeper into debt. With over $17 trillion dollars in debt, we need to take our spending seriously and reform for the benefit of future generations.

HR 3205 – Promoting Adoption and Legal Guardianship for Children in Foster Care: YES (Passed)

This legislation ensures that States are still able to receive awards if foster caseloads decline. This legislation also requires States to improve their reporting of State savings made as a result of changes made in the program's 2008 reauthorization that included federal funding for adoption assistance. This bill also extends Family Connect Grants through FY 2016 by requiring payments to be offset by reforming the collection of unemployment insurance overpayments. According to the CBO, the reforms in this bill would reduce the deficit by $24 million over the next ten years.

H J RES 73 – National Institute of Health shutdown appropriations: YES (Passed)

The joint resolution provides immediate funding for the National Institutes of Health at the same level and under the same conditions as the current fiscal year. Funds are available until another appropriations bill (such as regular bill or CR) is enacted for these operations or December 15, 2013.  This bill prevented patients hoping to enroll for treatment in cutting-edge research studies at the NIH's Clinical Center hospital will have to seek care elsewhere during the shutdown.  Some estimates say that each week of the shutdown would force the agency's renowned research hospital to turn away about 200 patients, 30 of them children, who want to enroll in studies of experimental treatments. Many patients seeking care at the NIH Clinical Center have exhausted all other options. The Clinical Center also houses the Undiagnosed Diseases Program to provide answers to patients with mysterious conditions that have long eluded a diagnosis. Outside of the NIH hospital, laboratory experiments ranging from creating better flu vaccines to finding the cause of autism also were suspended as scientists were sent home.

HR 3230 – Pay our Guard and Reserve Act: YES (Passed)

The Pay Our Guard and Reserve Act provides funding for the pay and allowances of military personnel in the reserve component who are in inactive status.  Funds are available until another appropriations bill (such as a regular bill or CR) is enacted for these operations or January 1, 2015. Our National Guard and Reserves are ready to answer the call of duty at a moment's notice. They should not be put in the middle of fiscal disagreements between the House and Senate. I voted in favor of this legislation to ensure they continued to get paid during a government shutdown.

H J RES 72– Honoring Our Promise to America’s Veterans: YES (Passed)

The joint resolution provides for the immediate availability of mandatory funds generally controlled through the annual Appropriations process for the Department of Veterans Affairs, namely for veterans disability payments, the GI Bill, education training, and VA home loans under the same conditions as in effect at the end of the just completed fiscal year.  In addition, discretionary funds for Departmental management are also provided.  Funds are available until another appropriation (such as regular bill or CR) is enacted for these operations or December 15, 2013. Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country; the least we can do is ensure they receive disability payments and other benefits while the government is shutdown. They have more than earned that right.

H Con Res 58 – Allowing for religious services to the military during the shutdown: YES (Passed)

Expresses the sense of Congress that there is a need for the continued availability of religious services for members of the Armed Forces and their families during a lapse in appropriations.  Specifically, H.Con.Res.58 1) recognizes that the performance of religious services are protected under the First Amendment of the Constitution; 2) urges the Secretary of Defense to permit the performance of religious services on DoD property during a lapse in appropriations as it would otherwise; and 3) urges the Secretary of Defense to permit military chaplains and others hired to perform chaplain duties, including contract personnel, to continue operating during a lapse in appropriations as they would otherwise.

H J RES 77 – FDA Appropriation Bill: YES (Passed)

 Provides immediate funding for the Food and Drug Administration at the same rate and under the same conditions as in effect at the end of the just completed fiscal year. Funds are available until another appropriation bill (such as regular bill or CR) is enacted for these operations or December 15, 2013.  This legislation ensures drugs and other approval items can continue to be monitored and tested during the government shutdown.

H J RES 91 – Death gratuities and survivor benefits for deceased military service members' families: YES (Passed)

Provides for the immediate availability of money in the Treasury for death gratuities and related benefits for survivors of deceased military service members of the Department of Defense.  Funds are to be made available through the end of Fiscal Year 2014. Fallen heroes’ families can, and should, receive what is owed to them. Just because the government is shutdown they should not have been made to suffer any more than they already have.

H J RES 76 – National Nuclear Security Administration Appropriations: YES (Passed)

Provides immediate funding for certain activities of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) at the same rate and under the same conditions as in effect at the end of the just completed fiscal year.  Funds are available until another appropriations bill (such as a regular bill or CR) is enacted for these operations or December 15, 2013. For the safety of our nation, nuclear arms inspectors need to be able to continue to do their job despite a government lapse in appropriations. This legislation also ensures that our nuclear silos are protected.

HR 2848: Dept of State Operations and Embassy Security Act: YES (Passed) 

This legislation cut $1.4 billion or 9% from FY12 and FY13 levels. $15.6 billion for FY14, lower than the required sequester level and is a step in the right direction fiscally. This bill makes sure that our embassies are protected and frivolous spending is not.

HR 1961: Extending the exemption from fire-retardant materials requirement: YES (Passed) 

The bill reinstates an exemption from the requirement that vessels with staterooms for at least 50 overnight passengers be constructed of fire-retardant materials.  The exemption that expired in 2008 would be extended through 2028.  This exemption only applies to vessels that were in operation before January 1, 1968.

HR 1412: Improving Job Opportunities for Veterans Act: YES

This Department of Veterans Affairs appropriations bill H.R. 1412 reduces the share on-the-job (OTJ) employers must pay of the full wage paid to veterans in on-the-job training programs from 85 percent to 75 percent.  Representatives from State Approving Agencies relayed to the Veteran's Committee that employers were reluctant to offer OJT programs because of the final 85 percent training wage requirement and suggested that if the percentage was lowered more employers would offer OJT opportunities for veterans. CBO estimates that it will decrease direct spending by $14 million over the 2014-2018 period and by $12 million over the 2014-2023 period. I am in favor of any legislation that would help our considerable veteran population find employment.

H J RES 90 – FAA Appropriations Bill: YES

Provides immediate funding for the Federal Aviation Administration at the same rate and under the same conditions as the current fiscal year.  The FAA’s operations, including aviation safety inspectors and other personnel, are being impacted by the government shutdown. This legislation ensures that these national security functions continue to operate.

H J RES 84 – Head Start Appropriations Bill: YES

This bill provides immediate funding for the Head Start program at current fiscal levels. On October 1, 2013, a lapse in federal funding resulted in a federal government shutdown, which impacted Head Start services.  Approximately 57,000 infants, toddlers, and children participating in Early Head Start and Head Start programs have been affected. I voted for this legislation at current levels because these children should not be put in the middle of fiscal debates in Congress.

HR 3273 – Deficit Reduction and Economic Growth Working Group Act: YES

Establishes the Bicameral Working Group on Deficit Reduction and Economic Growth, comprised of 20 Members of Congress, to recommend to the House of Representatives and Senate overall levels of discretionary spending, including for FY2014, changes in the statutory limit on the public debt, and reforms in direct spending programs. I am in favor of anyone wanting to come to the negotiation table to resolve the government shutdown as well as discuss spending reductions. 

H J RES 70 – National Park Service shutdown appropriations: YES

Funding for the National Park Service, the Smithsonian Institution, the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian Institution, and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum are contained in the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. On October 1, 2013, a lapse in federal funding resulted in a federal government shutdown. This legislation would keep our national sites open for public use. This legislation would have prevented WWII Veterans from being denied entry to the memorial built in their honor. WWII Veterans have paid the price of admission for the WWII Memorial thousands of times over. It is only right that they have access to it.

H J RES 85 – FEMA Appropriations Bill: YES

This bill provides immediate funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at the same rate and under the same conditions as in effect at the end of the just completed fiscal year. Funds are available until another appropriation bill (such as a regular bill or CR) is enacted for these operations or December 15, 2013. On October 1, 2013, a lapse in federal funding resulted in a federal government shutdown, including aspects of FEMA.  As Hurricane Karen approached the Gulf Coast, there was an increased focus on the need to ensure that FEMA had the resources available to respond. FEMA plays an integral role in our homeland security, especially in the State of Florida, and should never be used as a political tool.

H J RES 75 – SNAP bill: YES

Provides immediate funding for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program at current fiscal levels. On October 1, 2013, a lapse in federal funding resulted in a federal government shutdown. Funding for women in need and infants should not be a political tool in the overall budget debate.

HR 3223 – Compensation for furloughed Federal employees: YES

This bill allows furloughed federal employees to be compensated at their standard rate of compensation as soon as practicable after the shutdown is over. Federal employees should not be held responsible for the budget and fiscal debates taking place in Congress. These employees want to work, but can't through no fault of their own. This legislation would ensure they are paid their normal salary.

H J RES 89 – Paying salaries for “excepted” employees during the shutdown: YES

H.J.Res. 89 provides a direct appropriation for federal employees deemed “essential” during any period in FY 2014 in which interim or full year appropriations bills are not in effect. The authority for making these payments shall last until enactment of a Continuing Resolution or regular appropriations bill providing for such payments or December 15, 2013. Federal workers, just like private sector workers, should be paid for the work they do. These workers should not be punished for failure of Congress to reach an appropriations agreement.

H J RES 79 – Department of Homeland Security Appropriations: YES

H.J.Res. 79 provides immediate funding for border security programs at the Department of Homeland Security at the same level as the current fiscal year.  Funds are available until another appropriations bill (such as a regular bill or CR) is enacted for these operations or December 15, 2013. Our nation's security should never be used as a political tool nor should it be put on hold simply because Congress and the Administration have failed to lead.

H J RES 80 – Bureau of Indian Affairs Appropriations: YES

H.J.Res. 80 provides immediate funding for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Indian Education, and Indian Health Service at the current fiscal level. Funds are available until another appropriation (such as regular bill or CR) is enacted for these operations or December 15, 2013. Many agreements with Native Americans require federal cooperation. Those agreements should not be upended because of the fiscal debate in Congress.

HR 3210: Military pay in the event of a Gov’t Shutdown: YES

On September 30, 2013 the Congress passed and President Obama subsequently signed into law H.R. 3210. This bill ensures that members of our Armed Forces (including reserve components), civilian personnel of the Department of Defense and U.S. Coast Guard, and contractors of the Department of Defense and U.S. Coast Guard will continue to be paid in the event of a lapse in appropriations during fiscal year 2014. The last thing our military should worry about is their paycheck. I voted for this legislation to ensure that those who put themselves in harms way for the protection of our great nation continue to get paid.

H RES 354: Agreeing to Senate Amendments to HR 527 – Helium Stewardship Act: YES

The legislation authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to continue to sell crude helium from the Federal Helium Reserve, and directs an auction to establish a market price for helium.  The intent of the legislation is to authorize the program so that the drawdown of helium can continue with the purpose of closing the reserve and getting the federal government out of the helium business.

HR 3095: Rulemaking process for testing commercial drivers: YES

Requires that any Secretary of Transportation proposed requirements relating to sleep disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea,  for operators of commercial vehicles be adopted pursuant to a formal rulemaking proceeding

HR 2600: Land Sales Full Disclosure Act: YES

The bill provides an exemption from the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act for residential condominium units. This legislation removes certain registration and disclosure requirements that should not be applied to condominiums in the first place. For these reasons, I voted in favor of the bill.

HR 1526: Restoring Healthy Forests for Healthy Communities Act: YES

Seeks to address the decline in timber revenue to local counties that has resulted from overregulation, lawsuits and a lack of active forest management. The legislation also seeks to address forest management plans that have led to dense forests, which increase the likelihood for a wildfire. Regulatory and legal impediments have caused a decline in timber production and endangered the health of our national forests.

H J RES 59: 1ST CR – Includes a Full Repeal of the Affordable Care Act: YES

H J RES 59: 2nd CR – Full year defund and delay of the Affordable Care Act, Repeal of the Medical Device Tax: YES

H J RES 59: 3rd CR – Year Delay of the Individual Mandate: YES, No Affordable Care Act Loophole for Members of Congress: YES

H J RES 59: 4th CR- Year Delay of the Individual Mandate, No Affordable Care Act Loophole for Members of Congress, Request to go to Conference: YES 

I voted for each of these Continuing Resolutions to keep the government running and protect the American people from an unprecedented health care mandate that costs jobs and increases taxes. As we've seen with the Affordable Care Act roll out, this legislation is poorly constructed and written. The final Continuing Resolution included a delay of the individual mandate tax that would not prevent anyone from purchasing health insurance who wants it, it would simply bar the IRS from penalizing those who do not for a year With all the problems we have seen, a one year delay is a reasonable solution that even proponents of the legislation should support. A one year delay in the individual mandate tax is a similar delay that President Obama proposed for businesses, and I believe that every day Americans deserve that same break.

HR 3102: Nutrition Reform and Work Opportunity Act: YES

This bill ensures that work requirements for able-bodied adults without children are enforced, not waived; eliminates the ability of individuals to be deemed “categorically eligible” when they don’t meet the income or asset requirements for public assistance; prevents the gaming of the system through the “heat-and-eat loophole” whereby food stamp benefits are increased above what individuals are entitled to receive; prevents taxpayer funded advocacy campaign designed to sell people on enrolling in the food stamp program; empowers states to voluntarily engage able-bodied parents in work and job training as part of receiving food stamps; and prevents lottery winners, traditional college students, the deceased, illegal immigrants and those convicted of drug offenses from accessing benefits. I am in favor of reforms that make nutrition benefits solvent for those who truly need it. These reforms, similar to benefit requirements instituted by President Clinton, ensures that the program will be there as a safety net for deserving individuals. Those who would try to game the system or find loopholes take away funds from many who actually need it. I am in favor of commonsense reforms such as this.

HR 761: National Strategic and Critical Minerals Production Act: YES

This legislation provides for more efficient development of “strategic and critical minerals,”[2] including rare earth elements, by requiring a number of actions to streamline the permitting process for mineral exploration and mining projects.  The bill requires coordination among agencies; eliminates duplicative analysis; requires timely filing of lawsuits; and sets the total permitting review process at 30 months. I am in favor of cutting red-tape and regulatory reform that will streamline government processes. This legislation accomplishes these goals.

S 793: Organization of American States Revitalization and Reform Act: YES

The Organization of American States (OAS) was founded in 1948, it served as the sole multilateral body serving in the Western Hemisphere.  Today, however, there are a number of other regional organizations with competing interests that do not represent the same values recognized by the OAS.  This legislation was drafted to improve transparency and save tax dollars. The legislation states as findings that a “purpose of the Organization of American States is to promote and consolidate representative democracy, with due respect for the principle of nonintervention.” While I am not in favor of the Organization of American States, I voted for this legislation because it put a legal cap on the amount the United States can pay the organization for dues and fees.

HR 2449: South Korean Nuclear Energy Cooperation: YES

The agreement allows U.S. companies to export commercial nuclear materials, technologies, and services to the Republic of Korea and establishes nonproliferation conditions and controls. While this bill would end up costing under $500,000 it extends the current agreement while we work on a new trade agreement. This is a commonsense agreement that allows our two nations to share technology and advance ourselves through scientific cooperation. The money spent is just for licensing.

HR 3092: E. Clay Shaw, Jr. Missing Children’s Assistance Reauthorization Act: YES

This bill strengthens current law to help prevent the abduction and sexual exploitation of children. Authorizes $40 million for each of the fiscal years from 2014 through 2018. This legislation aims to improve resources in order to prevent child abductions and recover missing children.

HR 2775: No Subsidies Without Verification Act: YES

The bill seeks to reverse HHS regulations that said the administration wouldn’t require verification of the income of all subsidy applicants in 2014, and would instead seek additional documentation from a statistically significant sample of applicants. Health and Human Services Department must establish a program to verify household income and other qualification requirements. This bill added no cost and will end up cutting down on fraud and waste in the Affordable Care Act. It is ridiculous to think the Administration would just give away subsidies without any form of verification—this bill will fix that.

S 459: Minuteman Missile National Historic Site Boundary Modification: YES

Amends the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site Establishment Act of 1999 to modify the boundary of the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site in South Dakota by including in the Historic Site a visitor facility and administrative site located on a specified parcel of land that consists of: (1) approximately 25 acres of land within the Buffalo Gap National Grassland in Jackson County, South Dakota, and (2) approximately 3.65 acres of land at the Delta 1 Launch Control Facility for the construction and use of a parking lot and for other administrative uses.

S 304: Natchez Trace Parkway Land Conveyance Act: YES

Requires the Secretary of the Interior to convey to Mississippi all interest of the United States in two parcels of identified land totaling approximately 67 acres. This legislation gives management and ownership of federal land back to the state which allows for direct local oversight. For these reasons, I voted in favor of the legislation.

S 130: Powell Shooting Range Land Conveyance Act: YES

Requires the Secretary of the Interior to convey certain federal land to the Powell Recreation District in the State of Wyoming. It must be used as a shooting range and for any other public purpose consistent with the uses allowed under the Recreation and Public Purposes Act.  This bill rightly returns federal land to the Powell Recreation District, which has used this land since 1980. The land will be utilized for the public benefit as a shooting range and other public purposes. Additionally, the District will be required to pay all survey and administrative costs stemming from the transfer and will be required to release the U.S. from all claims and liabilities on the land, which will both save money for taxpayers.

HR 2747: Streamlining Claims Processing for Federal Contractor Employees Act: YES

The bill transfers certain functions from the Government Accountability Office to the Department of Labor relating to the processing of claims for the payment of workers who were not paid appropriate wages under certain provisions. The GAO has been responsible for handling claims adjustments to correct wages for employees whose pay did not meet these standards. The GAO no longer provides this service throughout other areas of the federal government, and has requested that the authority be transferred to the Labor Department. This bill rightly transfers authority of wage claims of public works contractors to the DOL instead of the GAO. This will reduce bureaucracies and redundancies while ensuring efficiency and timely compensation for workers.

HR 1155: National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers Reform Act: YES

Insurance agents and brokers licensed in their home states would be able to sell insurance in other states without applying for additional licenses. It would establish the National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers, or NARAB, a private, nonprofit corporation that would serve as a national insurance licensing clearinghouse. This legislation streamlines the existing process and allows transparency and oversight within the industry.

HR 2844: Federal Communications Commission Consolidated Reporting Act: YES

To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to consolidate the reporting obligations of the Federal Communications Commission in order to improve congressional oversight and reduce reporting burdens. It consolidates 20 currently required reports into one comprehensive report every 2 years. By requiring the FCC to consolidate and submit reports to Congress, the oversight process will become more efficient and more transparent.

HR 2052: Global Investment in America Jobs Act: NO

To direct the Secretary of Commerce, in coordination with the heads of other relevant Federal departments and agencies, to conduct an interagency review of and report to Congress on ways to increase the global competitiveness of the United States in attracting foreign direct investment. The study called forth within this bill seems wasteful. Everyone knows that our tax code along with rules and regulations is making the US economy less competitive within the global market and for this reason I voted NO.

HR 2009 Keep IRS OFF Your Health Care: YES

The IRS has a role in nearly 50 different aspects of Obamacare. Their involvement is so extensive that they have established an office within the IRS just to implement Obamacare. This legislation prevents the IRS from implementing any portion of Obamacare. With recent revelations about the IRS, we cannot trust nor should they be involved in any aspect of our healthcare.

HR 2711 Citizen Empowerment Act: YES

Sadly, a citizen in our country is 10 times more likely to be tried by an agency than by an actual court. In these proceedings American citizens have fewer rights than in a courtroom. This legislation ensures that individuals have the right to record their meetings and telephone conversations with federal regulatory officials engaged in enforcement activities.

HR 2579 Government Employee Accountability Act: YES

Even when a senior official is under investigation for serious misconduct, agencies are hampered with what they are able to discipline them. Government employees should be treated the same under the law as everyone else. This bill allows agencies to place employees on unpaid leave when they are investigation for certain serious offenses.

HR 1541 Common Sense in Compensation Act: YES

Federal agencies award significant annual bonuses to virtually all of their senior managers. This bill places limits on the size of bonuses as well as limits the number of senior agency employees who may receive bonuses in any given year.

HR 2565 Stop Targeting Our Politics IRS Act: YES

This legislation would provide for the termination of any employee who use their official position for political purposes.

HR 313 Government Spending Accountability Act: YES

This legislation places limits on federal conferences and requires agency head approval for them.

HR 2768 Taxpayer Bill of Rights: YES

This legislation amends authorizing law that creates the position of IRS Commissioner to make clear that it is the duty of the Commissioner to ensure that IRS employees are familiar and act in accord with certain privacy laws.

HR 1660 Government Customer Service Improvement Act: YES

Government is one of the few areas where personnel reviews are not lined to actual level of service provided. This legislation requires agencies to adopt customer service standards and to use customer service feedback in agency and personnel reviews.

HR 2667, the Authority for Mandate Delay Act: YES AND H.R. 2668, the Fairness for American Families Act: YES

I voted for these bills because the President unconstitutionally decided not to implement certain parts of the Affordable Care Act. Congress must reassert its Congressional authority and show the President it is the Legislative branch that passes laws, not the Executive. The reason I voted for these bills is because the House of Representatives has voted to repeal the Affordable Care Act close to 40 times. Until we have a Senate that is willing to vote with the will of the people in mind, we need to take every opportunity to delay implementation of this disastrous legislation. The House of Representatives is working on legislation to repeal and replace Obamacare with a market-based solution. I voted for these pieces of legislation to push back the employer and individual mandate to save American families from the effects of this job-killing bill.

HR 1582 the Energy Consumers Relief Act of 2013 YES

This legislation prohibits the Environmental Protection Agency from issuing final rules that have an estimated cost (direct or indirect) of more than $1 billion if the Secretary of Energy determines the rule will cause significant adverse effects to the economy. I voted for this legislation because the Environmental Protection Agency has consistently overstepped its bounds in promulgating its rules and regulations. And opportunity to stop the job-killing regulations from the agency is one I will take. For example, the Utility MACT rule is estimated by the agency to cost up to $9.6 billion annually. We need to stop these economy-killing regulations.

HR 367 The Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) YES

This legislation forces Congressional approval of any rule that would have an economic impact of more than $100 million. I voted for this legislation because we have ceded too much authority to the Executive branch. It is time that Congress asserts authority and forces Congressional approval of these rules and regulations.

The Department of Defense Appropriations Bill YES

This legislation decreases current defense spending by 5.1 billion dollars. It also reduced hundreds of millions from the Afghanistan Infrastructure Fund and the Afghanistan Security Forces Fund and puts that money towards deficit reduction. It also prohibits funds from being used to operate any drone in the United States in contravention of the 4th Amendment as well as prohibits funds from being used to collect an enrollment fee for the TRICARE for Life Program. Additionally, the legislation requires Congressional Approval for any activities done by the U.S. Afghan Strategic Partnership Agreement and cuts $600 million dollars in funding to Pakistan. In order to maintain our readiness and support the brave men and women who fight for our freedoms, the legislation allows a 1.8% pay raise and allocates $33.6 billion for health and family programs in the military. I was also in favor of a $10 million dollar increase for the National Guard State Partnership program which was offset by an $11 million dollar cut to extraneous programs. Finally, I was proud to introduce an amendment that would prohibit funds to be used for military action in Syria absent a declaration of war by Congress as well as cosponsor an amendment that would prohibit military actions in Egypt. I also voted in favor of Congressman Amash’s amendment to end authority for the blanket collection of records under the Patriot Act. I voted in favor of this legislation because it finds a balance between cutting spending, maintaining our military readiness, thanking those who have fought for our freedoms, and protecting our civil liberties. I was happy to see so many of my colleagues vote in favor of reasserting Congressional oversight on activities in the Executive Branch.

H.R. 2218, the Coal Residuals Reuse and Management Act of 2013 YES

This bill replaces the job-killing EPA proposal to regulate coal-ash as a hazardous waste with a state-oriented regulatory program. I voted in favor of this legislation because I am in favor of stopping the EPA’s overreach into rules and regulations that should come from the states. Each state best knows the environment within its borders and we should trust state agencies to adopt the rules that best fit them.

H.R. 5, Student Success Act YES

 This legislation is an important first step in shifting education policy away from the federal government and back to the states where it belongs. The bill repeals the one-size-fits-all Adequate Yearly Progress and gives back to states the power to develop their own accountability systems. It repeals federally mandated interventions, and gives states and localities the flexibility they need to develop their own strategies for their own schools. It also stops President Obama from forcing states to adopt “Common Core” standards and allows states to set their own funding levels for elementary and secondary education. It also eliminates more than 70 programs and gives the Secretary of Education a year to eliminate the jobs that were associated with those programs. I voted in favor of this legislation because I believe the federal government should remove itself entirely from the education system. This legislation shifts numerous programs back to the states and eradicates duplicative programs.

H.R. 1171 FOR VETS Act of 2013 YES

This legislation allows certain organizations that serve veterans the ability to receive excess and surplus federal property, including office supplies and furniture.

The Energy and Water Appropriations Bill (H. Res. 288) YES

This legislation appropriated $30 billion dollars which is $700 million less than 2013 levels post-sequester and $2.9 billion less than the 2013 pre-sequester level. This bill contained needed funds for the Army Corp of Engineers to finish projects such as harbor maintenance and other projects affecting interstate rivers. Anyone in North Florida knows how important JAXPORT is to the economy. Ports and harbors in the United States literally bring millions of dollars into the economy.

If we properly maintain and bring JAXPORT fully online, we in North Florida have the potential to bring the rest of the country out of a recession. This legislation also provides funds for nuclear energy and the nuclear petroleum reserve, which despite the President’s objections, I believe to be important sources of energy for the United States.

H.R 1797 Pain-Capable Unborn Protections Act  YES

This legislation prohibits abortions 20 weeks after fertilization, with exceptions for rape, incest, or to save the life of the mother. Recently, studies have shown that after 20 weeks of fertilization unborn children are able to feel pain. I believe that all life deserves liberty, and voted in favor of this legislation for that reason.

H.R. 1613 The Outer Continental Shelf Transboundary Hydrocarbon Agreements Authorization Act YES

This legislation enacts terms of an agreement signed by the Obama Administration and Mexico to govern how to explore, develop, and share revenue from oil and natural gas resources among the maritime border in the Gulf of Mexico. This legislation is an important step in opening new areas for oil exploration, lowering gas prices, and creating American jobs. For these reasons, I voted yes on this legislation.

H.R. 2231 Offshore Energy and Jobs Act YES

This legislation would require the Obama Administration to move forward with new offshore energy production in areas containing the most natural gas resources. These areas include locations off the coast of South Carolina, Virginia, Southern California, as well as other high-energy producing sites. Additionally, I voted in favor of an amendment that ensures that states rights are respected and are not usurped in this legislation. I truly believe if done wisely, energy production can reduce our reliance on oil from the Middle East, create American jobs, and lower gas prices. I voted in favor of this legislation for these reasons.

H.R. 1341 Financial Competitive Act  YES

This legislation requires the Financial Stability Oversight Council to conduct a study of the consequences of implementing different derivatives credit valuation adjustment capital requirements in United States and foreign jurisdictions under Basel III. The report must include an assessment of negative consequences that different standards between the U.S. and foreign jurisdictions could have on U.S. financial institutions, the potential for driving derivatives business to foreign jurisdictions.

H.R. 1564 Audit Integrity and Job Protection Act YES

This bill amends the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 to prohibit the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board from requiring that public companies use different auditors on a rotating basis or from requiring that companies use specific auditors. I voted yes on this legislation because the federal government should not force a private company to comply with mandates on who should audit them. These decisions are best left to the companies themselves, not the federal government. Additionally, recent studies have questioned the effectiveness of rotating auditors. For these reasons, I voted in favor of the legislation.

H.R. 2217 The Homeland Security Appropriations Act YES 

This legislation provided $38.9 billion dollars in discretionary funding that included funds for Customs and Border Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, as well as the Coast Guard and Secret Service. I voted for this legislation after strong provisions were added that restricts “Fast and Furious” type programs and includes extensive reporting requirements for DHS’s procurement and usage of ammunition. Additionally, I voted in favor of an amendment that would prohibit funds from being used for ammunition until reports to Congress are made regarding past ammunition purchases.  This legislation also prohibits any funds from being used for the planning, testing, or developing of a national identification card. I voted in favor of this legislation because many brave men and women serve both on our borders and seas to ensure that our country is protected. A nation is only sovereign if it can control its borders. This legislation provides the funding to do so and includes the largest totals for Border Patrol officers in history.  Before we move forward with immigration reform we must secure our borders and enforce the laws on the books. This appropriations bill provides the necessary funds to do that.

H.R. 2216 The Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act YES

This legislation provides a spending level of $73.3 billion, which includes $55.6 billion in appropriations for VA medical programs and $43.6 billion to support veteran medical treatment, including funding for traumatic brain injury. I voted for this legislation because it provides funding for much needed veterans programs and treatment. I believe we should do what we can for those who sacrificed greatly for our country. As the proud father, brother, and son of military members, I understand the unique challenges that veterans face. With over 120, 000 veterans in the 3rd District of Florida, I am honored to represent so many heroes. I applaud our veterans for their service, and will do what I can to ensure they receive the proper treatment they need for serving their country so nobly. As I travel throughout the district, one major problem I hear from our veterans is the egregious backlog in benefits claims. Forcing a veteran to wait years for service is an outrage. In this legislation, $155 million dollars is included to address the backlog. Additionally, this legislation imposed a 25% pay cut to senior officials at the Department of Veteran Affairs if the backlog is not reduced by 40% by July 1st, 2014. For these reasons, I voted for this legislation.

H.R. 1911 Smarter Solutions for Students Act YES 

This bill brings student loan interest rates back to market-based rates by linking the base rate to the 10-year Treasury note. These interest rates would be variable and reset once a year to reflect the current 10-year Treasury note. I voted for this legislation because Congress should not be in the business of setting interest rates for student loans, we need to bring it to a market-based rated. This bill is a step in the right direction by getting politics out of the equation.

H.R. 3 Northern Route Approval Act

This bill declares that no Presidential permit is required to build the XL pipeline and that the State Department’s environmental impact statement satisfies permitting requirements. I voted for this legislation because the XL Pipeline would provide not only provide much needed jobs to our economy but reduce our reliance on oil from unstable regions.

H.R. 1073 Nuclear Terrorism Conventions Implementation and Safety of Maritime Navigation Act

Amends current law by expanding the federal penalties and prison times for convictions involving violence or hijacking against U.S. ships and maritime platforms involving weapons of mass destruction. The bill also prohibits hijacking a ship or maritime platform in an attempt to coerce a government action, or to use a ship to discharge hazardous substances. With a daughter serving in the Coast Guard, I am keenly aware of the dangers that exist on the high seas, and I am in favor of adding stronger penalties to protect our ships and maritime platforms to try to prevent against hijacking or coercive action.

H.R. 258 Stolen Valor Act

This legislation amends the Stolen Valor Act of 2005 to narrow its application to those who fraudulently misrepresent their status as a decorated serviceman or servicewoman in the U.S. Armed Forces in order to profit from the fraudulent claim. I voted for this legislation because it both protects the sanctity of the honors bestowed to our servicemen and women as well as satisfies First Amendment concerns raised by the original bill.

H.R. 324 To Grant the Congressional Gold Medal, collectively, to the First Special Force, in recognition of its superior service during WWII: YES

This bill creates two gold medals in honor of the First Special Service Force. One would be given to the First Special Service Association in Helena, Montana and the other to the Smithsonian Institution. I am favor of honoring the sacrifice of those who bravely fought in WWII.

H.R 1344 Helping Heroes Fly Act: YES

This legislation directs the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security to develop and implement a process to ease travel or provide expedited passenger screening for severely injured or disabled Members of the Armed Forces and veterans. I am in favor of this legislation because allowing our disabled veterans an expedited trip through security at the airport is the least we can do for all they have sacrificed for their country.

H.R. 45 To Repeal the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act: YES 

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is, in my opinion, one of the single biggest hindrances to job creation I’ve seen in my lifetime. I am in favor of affordable access to healthcare but a socialized system that forces citizens to purchase healthcare is unacceptable. Additionally, the taxes involved in the legislation have stifled businesses’ ability to expand and hire new employees. Businesses small and large are holding on to their capital rather than growing their companies because they do not know the costs that will ultimately be associated with this bill. There are better ways to provide access to healthcare that lower prices and offer a free-market solution. We should explore those avenues rather than force citizens into a one-payer system.

H.R. 1062 SEC Regulatory Accountability Act: YES

Currently the Securities and Exchange Commission is not required to conduct cost-benefit analyses before issuing rules and regulations. This had led to costly rules that hurt our economy and hinder job creation. As a Co-Chairman of the Freshman Regulatory Working Group, I am in favor of legislation that either eliminates or prevents costly rules from unelected agencies. We need to stop this Administration from circumventing the legislative process and legislating by regulation.

H.R. 384 Homes for Heroes Act: YES

This bill establishes a position of Special Assistant for Veteran’s Affairs in the Office of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This is done by transferring an existing position within HUD because after the transfer the old position is eliminated. While I am not generally in favor of the creation of new positions within the Federal government, I voted in favor of this bill because of the inclusion of a provision that eliminated the outdated position rather than creating another federal job. Additionally, this new position tackles an important subject to North Florida and we must find a way to makes sure our nation’s veterans are not without a roof over their head. Their sacrifices have earned them the comfort of having a warm bed and roof at night.

H.R. 573 To Amend Public Law 93-435 with respect to the Northern Mariana Islands, providing parity with Guam, the Virgin Islands, and American Samoa: YES

This legislation provides the Northern Mariana Islands with the same ownership and jurisdiction over offshore submerged lands as has been provided to other U.S. territories. The Constitution is very clear; Congress shall have the Power to dispose of and make all needful Rules and Regulations respecting Territory or other Property belonging to the United States, and nothing in this Constitution shall be so construed as to Prejudice any Claims of the United States or of any particular State.”

H.R. 767 To Amend the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to modify the Pilot Project offices of the Federal Permit Streamlining Pilot Project

This legislation amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to authorize certain Bureau of Land Management Act offices to serve as pilot offices for federal permit streamlining. I am in favor of this legislation because the federal permitting process has become an excuse for the Administration to drag their feet on projects they don’t agree with by slowing the permitting process. You only need to look at XL to see evidence of this type of tactic. Job creation should not fall victim to bureaucratic red-tape.

H.R. 1580 To Affirm the policy of the United States regarding Internet governance: YES

This legislation states that it is the policy of the United States to “preserve and advance the successful multistakeholder model that governs the Internet.” It also states that the Internet should remain stable, secure, and free from government control and that we need to be aggressive in opposition of international regulation of the Internet. I am in favor of this bill because the Internet must remain free and open. That model has led to the breeding ground of innovation it is today and we should keep the Internet free of government control.

H.R. 180 The National Blue Alert Act of 2013: YES

The National Blue Alert Act would set up a communications network that will issue “blue alerts” throughout the nation relating to the serious injury or death of a law enforcement officer (including federal officers) in the same fashion as the current “Amber Alert” system. Its purpose is to quickly disseminate information on suspects who seriously injure or kill local, state, and federal law enforcement officers. This allows local law enforcement agencies to get out pertinent information as quickly as possible. I consulted with local law enforcement in North Florida and due to our proximity to the state border, information on a suspect that is disseminated may be lost upon reaching the border. By allowing a national alert similar to “Amber Alert,” local law enforcement can spread information that is needed in real time.

H.R. 807 Full Faith and Credit Act: YES

Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to pay debts owed by the United States and the 14th Amendment states that the validity of the public debt of the United States shall not be questioned. This legislation, allows the Treasury Department the ability to pay interest in order to prevent against sovereign default which may call the validity of the public debt into question. I am in favor of this legislation because it forces a prioritization of our debt payments in the event the debt ceiling is reached and takes away any ability the President may think he has to unilaterally raise the debt ceiling on Constitutional grounds.

H.R. 1406 The Working Families Flexibility Act: YES

This legislation amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to allow private-sector employees the option to receive compensatory time instead of cash wages for overtime work.  The option to choose comp time or cash wages for overtime work has been available to public-sector employees for almost 30 years. The legislation allows employers to offer employees the option of choosing to be paid at the overtime rate of 1.5 times the regular wage rate or to receive 1.5 hours of comp time for every hour of overtime worked.  I am in favor of the legislation because it gets rid of an outdated rule that prevents the private sector from choosing which payment method best suits them. If an employee wishes to receive compensatory time instead of pay they, and their employer, should have the option to discuss that.

H.R. 507 The Pascua Yaqui Tribe Land Trust Act: YES

This bill transfers two 10-acre parcels into a trust for the benefit of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe of Arizona. This transfer shall take effect when the Tucson Unified School District relinquishes all right, title, and interest to one of the parcels, and the Secretary approves the records the lease agreements between the Tribe and the School District.  I voted for this legislation because these leases are for the construction and operation of a regional transportation facility located on the restricted Indian land of the Tribe.

H.R. 588 Vietnam Veterans Donor Acknowledgement Act: YES

This bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to allow the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, Inc. to acknowledge donor contributions to the visitor center by displaying, inside the visitor center, an appropriate statement acknowledging the contribution. I voted for this legislation because not only is it important to acknowledge our veterans, its important to allow the memorial the ability to gather private funds. By allowing donor acknowledgement, the Memorial Fund has one more tool to entice private donor participation into the program. Additionally, this legislation has no cost to taxpayers and any credit or acknowledgement will be borne by the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Fund.

H.R. 291 Black Hills Cemetery Act: YES

This legislation directs the Secretary of Agriculture to convey certain local communities in South Dakota for the purposes of managing and maintaining community cemeteries. I voted for this legislation because the federal government not only has too much control, it owns too much land. Local communities know best how to manage their areas and I am in favor of legislation that allows more local control.

H.R. 1765 The Reducing Flight Delays Act of 2013: YES

This legislation allows the Secretary of Transportation to transfer money from the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program account to the FAA’s Operation’s account. I voted for this legislation because the American people should not fall victim to a manufactured crisis aimed at scoring political points. This legislation keeps FAA spending reductions but makes them in a smarter way, and gives flexibility to protect travelers from unnecessary delays and ensures their safety.

H.R. 527 The Responsible Helium Administration and Stewardship Act: YES

This bill authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to continue to sell crude helium from the Federal Helium Reserve, until the Reserve only contains a minimal amount of helium for government use. I voted for this legislation because I do not believe the federal government should continue to limit access to crude helium to private companies who wish to purchase it. This legislation opens the Federal Helium Reserve up to the free market as well as ensures that excess funds go to reducing the deficit.

H.R. 678 The Bureau of Reclamation Small Conduit Hydropower Development and Rural Jobs Act: YES
This bill reduces administrative costs and regulatory red-tape to jumpstart development on existing pipelines and canals. I voted in favor of this legislation because our current regulatory climate is stifling development of much needed energy projects. If we were to streamline our regulatory permitting process we could have development of energy in a variety of sectors that will give consumers more choices and bring the cost of energy down. 

H.R. 1033 American Battlefield Protection Program: NO
This legislation expands the American Battlefield Protection Program to include battlefields from the Revolutionary War, as well as the War of 1812. Under this program, the Secretary of the Interior provides grants to entities to pay the federal share of the cost of acquiring interests in eligible sites. While I am in favor of preserving past, the National Park Service could not possibly endure the additional costs that this legislation would incur. Additionally, according to the CBO this legislation would cost $46 million in the 2014-2018 timeframe, with additional costs after that. In this fiscal climate, the federal government should become smaller not use taxpayer dollars to become even larger. 

H.R. 254 The Bonneville Unit Clean Hydropower Facilitation Act: YES
Due to a 2004 “use of facilities” cost allocation formula, any hydropower developer must pay $106 million over 50 years as part of installing any hydropower infrastructure at the Diamond Fork system in Utah. This would be in addition to capital costs at the facilities, which would be paid solely by the developer. Because of this, this area is expected to remain undeveloped for the foreseeable future. This legislation eliminates onerous requirements and therefore encourages private entities to develop hydropower resources in the Diamond Fork area. I voted for this legislation because I am in favor of private involvement in developing this energy over the federal government standing in the way. We should encourage more private sector development into energy. 

H.R. 624 The Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act (CISPA): NO
This legislation creates a process for the federal government to share classified and unclassified cyber threat information with the private sector, and allows private companies to share cyber threat information with each other and with the government. Security, in any form, should not come at the cost of our Constitutional protections. While the goal of this legislation is well-intentioned, I believe the potential for violations of privacy are too great with the legislation as drafted. Private companies already have the ability to report cyberattack information with the government and they can do it in a way that does not relieve them of liability should they reveal private information about a customer. This bill would take away a citizen’s ability to hold a company liable for such an action. We should protect our Constitutional rights, not make it easier to circumvent them. 

H.R. 1163 Federal Information Security Amendments Act of 2013: YES
This legislation directs Federal agencies to develop and oversee the implementation of policies and guidelines for information security. It also codifies federal government-wide security standards and outlines protocols for federal agencies regarding attacks, maintenance of security networks, and the evaluation of potential risks. With hundreds of hacker attempts each day, the federal government should take the steps necessary to protect its network and outline a strategy to prevent against future threats and attacks. An attack on a federal network to gain sensitive or classified data is an attack on our sovereignty and we should do what we can to protect it. 

H.R. 967 Advancing America’s Networking and Information Technology Research and Development Act of 2013: YES
This bill seeks to improve interagency coordination and planning through collaboration with technical policy experts. The legislation also requires the creation and periodic updating of a strategic plan for the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development program, as well as the examination of ways to enhance the trustworthiness of cloud computing environments. I voted for this legislation because in order for the Federal government to be truly effective in combating cyber attacks we need to facilitate interagency coordination to codify security standards and ensure efficiency. Proper coordination with agencies will get rid of costly duplication, which wastes taxpayer dollars and resources. 

H.R. 756 Cybersecurity Enhancement Act of 2013: NO
This legislation amends the Cybersecurity Research and Development Act to establish and make publically available a cybersecurity research database to track current and completed cybersecurity research and development projects across the Federal government and funding information. It also creates a university-industry taskforce as well as requires research on the science of cybersecurity. While I believe protecting our nation from cyber attacks is important, a federal mandate to research the science of cybersecurity and the creation of an assessment on the cybersecurity workforce needs of the Federal is not the right approach. Additionally, this legislation is expected to cost taxpayers $504 million dollars from 2014-2018. 

H.R. 1246 District of Columbia CFO Vacancy Act: This legislation passed by voice vote
This bill authorizes the Treasurer of the District of Columbia to serve as the Chief Financial Officer of DC, in acting capacity, when there is a vacancy because the CFO has died, resigned, or is otherwise unable to perform the duties of the office. Article I, Section 8, Clause 17 of the Constitution grants Congress exclusive legislation in “all Cases whatsoever” over the District of Columbia. This legislation provides commonsense reforms to the structure of the District of Columbia’s local governance. 

H.R. 882 Contracting and Tax Accountability Act of 2013: YES
This legislation states that it is the policy of the United States that no government contracts or grants should be given to companies with seriously delinquent federal tax debts. I voted in favor of this legislation because we should not reward companies that engage in criminal behavior. Companies that try to avoid paying taxes should be punished, not given grants or government contracts. 

H.R. 249 The Federal Employee Tax Accountability Act: YES
This legislation states that a federal employee with serious delinquent tax debt is ineligible for employment with the federal government. I voted in favor of this legislation because federal employees are not above the law and should not be employed by a federal government they are attempting to defraud. 

HR 1162 GAO Improvement Act: YES
This legislation grants the Comptroller General the authority to obtain records from governmental departments and agencies that they determine are necessary to conduct audits, evaluations, and investigate the federal government’s functions. Additionally, it allows the Comptroller General the ability to administer oaths to witnesses when investigating fraud or attempts to defraud the United States. I voted for this legislation because as the main office tasked with auditing the government, the Comptroller General can, and should, have the tools it needs to effectively do its job. It is terrible necessity to have to have this role, but history has shown egregious waste and fraud that has occurred at various departments. Our federal government should be transparent, efficient, and proper stewards of American tax dollars. H.R. 1162 gives the Comptroller General and the Government Accountability Office the tools to ensure it. 

H.Con.Res. 25 FY2014 Budget Resolution: YES
The FY2014 Budget Resolution sets recommended spending revenue, deficit, and debt levels over the 2014-2013 period. I voted in favor of this legislation because it not only reduces spending relative to current policy by 10%, it also reduces projected deficit spending over ten years by 79%. It also repeals Obamacare and does not provide funding for it over the 10 year budget window. Additionally, it reduces the deficit by $4.6 trillion dollars relative to the current baseline. The resolution also balances the budget within 10 years. I voted for this budget because we need to reign in rampant government spending and put a stop to the job-killing debt and deficits our country faces. This budget framework is an important step in balancing our budget and cutting federal spending. 

HR 933 The Department of Defense, Military Construction and Veteran’s Affairs, and Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013: YES
This legislation provided funding for the federal government through the end of fiscal year 2013. I voted for this legislation because it provides financial stability to the Department of Defense and ensures that we are able to protect our men and women who fight for our freedoms overseas. This legislation ensures that our military men and women are able to put food on the table and funds TRICARE and prohibits new enrollment fees. It also puts into law provisions on how these funds cannot be used. For example, the bill prohibits funds to transfer or house any Guantanamo detainee in the United States, prohibits funding for ACORN or any of its subsidiaries or successors, prohibits the sale of any F-22 to any foreign government, denies funds for any project named after a Member of Congress, prohibits funds for first class travel, includes a Pakistan funding limitation, as well as prohibits funds from being used to violate the War Powers Resolution. It also includes language to allow the Department of Defense flexibility in implementing Sequestration to ensure that national security or defense is not compromised while maintaining the overall cuts to spending. 

S.47 The Violence Against Women Act: NO (Passed)
This legislation would reauthorize approximately 25 Violence Against Women Act federal grant programs at around $670 million a year from FY2014-FY2018. These grants are administered primarily through the Department of Justice as well as the Centers for Disease Control in the Department of Health and Human Services.  Domestic violence against women, or anyone else, are terrible crimes and should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. And to that end, Florida has 42 domestic violence centers that receive funding from the Governor’s office and the Florida Department of Children and Families. Last year, anti-domestic violence programs were funded at the state level at $6.5 million for rape prevention and sexual assault services, $29 million for domestic violence programs, and $1.5 million to pay for relocation services for victims of sexual battery. The state of Florida also has the DELTA program and the Governor’s Initiative, which are aimed at reducing domestic violence at the state level. These programs are administered and paid for at the local level where they can be tailored to be most successful. Every state has statutes that punish domestic violence and many areas have specialized courts that hold offenders accountable and offer services to victims. Not only are some of the federal programs reauthorized in VAWA duplicative of state initiatives, they are duplicative of programs that already exist within the Department of Justice or other federal agencies. Victims of domestic violence should have the most direct and effective means to protect themselves from further violence. By creating duplicative federal programs, we hurt efficiency and effectiveness, and therefore the goal of helping the people that need it. 

HR 592 “The Federal Disaster Assistance Nonprofit Fairness Act of 2013”: YES (Passed)
The legislation would amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance on terms equal to other eligible private nonprofit facilities, and for other purposes. The legislation further amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to include houses of worship as private nonprofit facilities eligible for disaster relief. I voted yes for this legislation because in the case of Everson V. Board of Education, the Supreme Court held that religious institutions are entitled to receive “general government services” made available on the basis of neutral criteria. The legislation does not provide relief to build churches, it simply allows them the same eligibility as other facilities regarding disaster assistance. The Court found that state power is no more to be used to handicap religions, than to favor them. In fact, to not to allow this eligibility would be to single out churches for adverse treatment, which is itself unlawful. 

 

HR 803 “Supporting Knowledge and Investing in Lifelong Skills” Act: YES
This legislation empowers employers, reigns in bureaucracy, and provides American workers with a more effective network of job training services. The legislation also empowers state governors to consolidate additional employment and training programs and services at the state level to improve administrative efficiency, further eliminate waste, and improve support for workers. I voted in favor of this legislation because it streamlines and reforms government jobs programs to eliminate waste while also freeing burdens at the state level. 

 

HR 890 “Preserving Work Requirements for Welfare Programs Act of 2013”: YES
This legislation prohibits waivers relating to work requirements in welfare programs. As you know, Congress reformed welfare in the 1990’s to include work requirements to fix a system that had long suffered from fraud, waste, and abuse. Recently, the President attempted to circumvent Congress and waive these requirements. Congress had to reassert its proper role and stop this illegal circumvention of current law. The legislation also reauthorized Temporary Assistance for Needy Families at current levels until December 31st, 2013. While it is regrettable for the need for welfare programs, with unemployment at an all time high here in Florida, I understand the need for temporary assistance. However, the program should be both temporary and assistance. It should never replace a paycheck or be open-ended. I’m happy that Congress reasserted current law and stopped the President from attempting to undo the needed reform to these programs. 

 

HR 1035 “To require a study of voluntary community-based flood insurance options and how such options could be incorporated into the national flood insurance program.”: YES
This bill will require a study of voluntary community-based flood insurance options and how such options could be incorporated into the national flood insurance program. The bill also requires the FEMA Administrator to conduct a study to assess options, methods, and strategies for making available voluntary community-based flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. I voted in favor of this legislation because it allows for a voluntary study to look at the feasibility of allowing communities to band together to purchase flood insurance. By allowing communities to do this we lower costs for consumers. 

 

HR 338 “Stop Tobacco Smuggling in the Territories Act of 2013”: YES
This bill extends current federal criminal law prohibitions against contraband cigarettes and smokeless tobacco within the 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands to American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Mariana Islands, and Guam. Current law prohibits the shipment, possession, sale, distribution, or purchase of10,000 or more contraband cigarettes or 500 single consumer cans of smokeless tobacco in the previously mentioned areas. I voted for this legislation because it extends current law to American Samoa, the Mariana Islands, and Guam. Article IV Section 3 Clause 2 of the Constitution clearly states that, “Congress shall have the power to dispose of and make all needful Rules and Regulations respecting the Territory or other Property belonging to the United States; and noting in this Constitution shall be so construed as to Prejudice any Claims of the United States, or any particular state.” Bringing American Samoa, the Mariana Islands, and Guam in line with current federal law is only fair to the people of those respective areas. 

 

HR 668 “To Amend section 1105 (a) of title 31, United States Code, to require that annual budget submissions of the President to Congress provide and estimate of the cost per taxpayer of the deficit and for other purposes.”: YES
I voted in favor of this legislation because it is a straightforward budget transparency bill that codifies Congress’ Constitutional role in providing proper oversight over the Executive Branch. Congress should not cede its role as stewards of the American taxdollar and forcing the President to be more open and transparent regarding the effects of his budget proposals is not only in line with our Constitutional duty, it is a responsible action on behalf of the American taxpayer. 

 

H. Res. 77 “Academic Competition Resolution of 2013”: YES
This bill would establish an academic competition in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics which shall be held each year among students in each Congressional district. The bill allows Member offices, if they so choose, to seek guidance from outside experts in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for the purposes of establishing criteria for the selection of competition judges and for the judgment of competition submissions. It also allows some funds from the Members Representational Account to be used to promote the competition for students. I voted for this legislation because this this allows Congress to show the importance of legislation at the local level. By allowing local experts to judge and consult on competitions such as this, we connect local communities with experts in fields that are woefully lacking interested students. 

 

HR 667 To Redesignate the Dryden Flight Research Center as the Neil A. Armstrong Flight Research Center and Western Aeronautical Test Range as the Hugh L. Dryden Aeronautical Test Range: YES
The redesignation of federal buildings, under current law, must be done by Congress. It would be unlawful to redesignate the Dryden Flight Research Center without the consent of Congress. 

 

H. Res. 65 “Condemning the Government of North Korea for its flagrant and repeated violations of multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions, for its repeated provacations that threaten international peace and stability, and for its February 12, 2013 test of a nuclear device.”: YES
I voted for this legislation because it sends a clear signal of solidarity to the South Koreans and the innocent North Koreans who want freedom from the oppressive regime that holds them captive. This resolution accomplishes a strong signal of support that goes a long way in urging action by the innocent North Koreans who wish to stand up to their brutal government. 

 

HR 273 “To eliminate the 2013 statutory pay adjustment for Federal employees.” : YES
This bill prevents President Obama’s Executive Order, which provides federal employees with a .5 percent pay raise from going into effect. I voted in favor of this legislation because the federal government needs to be vigilant over every dollar we spend. There is no doubt there are plenty of hardworking federal employees but just as families across America have had to tighten their budgets, so too should the federal government. This bill alone would save $11 billion dollars over 10 years. 

 

HR 267: “Hydropower Regulatory Efficiency Act of 2013”: YES
This bill increases the threshold by which small hydroelectric power projects can receive exemption from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission licensing requirements from 5,000 to 10,000 kilowatts. I voted in favor of this legislation because 75% of our renewable energy in America comes from hydropower yet the approval process is unnecessarily slow and cumbersome. This bill streamlines the permitting process for these projects which help get low-cost power to citizens faster and more efficiently. 

 

HR 444 “Require a Plan Act”: YES
This legislation requires the President to submit a supplemental budget proposal that provides an estimate of the earliest fiscal year in which his budget provides a balance. I voted in favor of this legislation because Congress in keeping with both our oversight function and as stewards of the American tax dollar, can and should, request that the President present a plan to balance the budget. This legislation grants no appropriation power to the President and simply supplements current law, Section 1105 (a) of title 31, that requires the President to submit a budget proposal to Congress. It is within the purview of Congress to provide oversight to the President regarding his duties under current law. 

 

HR 297 “Children’s Hospital GME Support Reauthorization Act of 2013”: NO This legislation authorizes federal funding for pediatric graduate medical residency programs for five years. While this bill has a great intent, the $1.2 billion dollar cost is not offset by cuts to other areas in the federal government. Even the Department of Health and Human Services was able to identify areas of this program in which spending could be cut in a manner that would better align Graduate Medical Education payments with patient care costs. Indeed, even the President’s own budget proposals called for a significant cut in the program. Reauthorizing expensive programs without regard to ways to streamline or rid itself of wasteful spending is both irresponsible and, in the end, hurts the very programs they are designed to fund. 

HR 307 “Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Reauthorization Act of 2013”: YES
This bill amends the National Health Service Act by reauthorizing funding for agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that support activities related to public health readiness and medical emergencies to respond against public pandemics. The legislation also authorizes programs designed to foster development of chemical, biological, radioactive, and nuclear medical countermeasures to strengthen the nation’s preparedness infrastructure. I voted in favor of this legislation because coordination and response to a biological, radioactive, or nuclear attack must be done at the federal level. These types of attacks do not stop at state lines and coordination of response can only be done at the federal level. Section 8, Clause 1 of the Constitution grants Congress the authority to provide for the common defense and general welfare. I can think of no greater example of this clause than coordinating a strategy to defend against chemical, biological, radioactive, or nuclear attacks against our homeland. 

HR 325 “No Budget, No Pay”: NO
This legislation was a step in the right direction in getting Congress to do its job and produce a budget. However, included in this legislation was an extension of the current debt ceiling which I simply do not support. 

HR 219 Sandy Recovery and Improvement Act: YES
I voted in favor of HR 219 because the bill improves FEMA efficiency and streamlines hurricane recovery efforts by getting rid of costly FEMA regulations that delay rebuilding efforts, hinder debris removal, and drive up project costs. By streamlining and eliminating waste, it is expected to save hundreds of millions of dollars in hurricane clean-up costs. Here, in Florida, we know just how costly and devastating hurricanes can be. An efficient FEMA recovery process is beneficial for all involved. 

HR 41 “To Temporarily increase the borrowing authority of FEMA for carrying out the flood insurance program.”: NO
I voted against HR 41 because I do not believe the federal government should be involved in or subsidize the property insurance industry. As history has shown, the Federal government is terrible at managing money. As it is, the program already owes taxpayers 18 billion in borrowed funds from its last bailout. The NFIP is insolvent and voting to raise the borrowing limit on an insolvent program just prolongs fiscal irresponsibility and leaves taxpayers on the hook.