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Soto, Salazar, Wasserman Schultz, Wilson Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Adjust Legal Status for Venezuelan Nationals

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Darren Soto (D-FL)

This comes after the Trump Administration’s decisions to abandon the extension of the Temporary Protected Status designation for Venezuela and end the Humanitarian Parole for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans program

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Reps. Darren Soto (D-FL-09), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24) announced the re-introduction of H.R. 1348, the Venezuelan Adjustment Act, bipartisan legislation to adjust the status for certain Venezuelan nationals to that of lawfully admitted permanent resident (LPR) if they meet certain criteria, including entering the United States before or on December 31, 2021.

“As the Trump Administration continues stripping Venezuelans of parole, Temporary Protected Status, and other protections, it is crucial for us to come together and fight for their safety,” said Rep. Soto. “Permanent legal status would allow hard-working Venezuelans in our community to have greater stability in their pursuit of the American Dream.”   

“The oppression of the Maduro regime and the failure of socialism of the 21st century has led to the world’s worst refugee crisis. As long as Maduro forcibly remains in power, this crisis will only get worse,” said Rep. Salazar. “Hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans fled the Maduro regime and now face an uncertain future here in the United States. I am proud to reintroduce the Venezuelan Adjustment Act to provide refuge for those who have endured incredible suffering, so they do not have to return home to face the wrath of the dictatorship.”

“The Venezuelan Adjustment Act will give security and peace of mind to tens of thousands of Venezuelans who have fled a murderous, totalitarian regime,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “As Trump closes off legal pathways for migrants, we need this legislation to re-open the door for those who should have the opportunity to become permanent legal residents as Cubans have been able to for years. This bill would strengthen South Florida’s economy, keep families together, and stave off cruel threats of deportation back to the Maduro regime’s repression.”

“Maduro’s brutal regime has driven countless Venezuelans to flee the nation and seek refuge in the United States. Sending them back isn’t just wrong—it’s inhumane,” said Rep. Wilson. “I’m proud to support a legal pathway for certain Venezuelan nationals in the U.S. because abandoning them in their time of need is not an option. We must stand against oppression and support those escaping it.”

The Venezuelan Adjustment Act would provide a path to LPR status for many Venezuelan nationals who have been living in the U.S. for years and allow them to continue making significant contributions to their communities, the state of Florida, and the country. It is vital that the U.S. continue to provide safety and support to Venezuelans who have fled the political, economic, and humanitarian crisis continuing to plague Venezuela.

Political instability, endemic corruption, and repression under Nicolás Maduro’s authoritarian regime have led to massive food and medicine shortages, with millions living in poverty and suffering from food insecurity. Venezuela’s economy has contracted by more than 80% since 2014, which is more than twice the magnitude of the Great Depression in the United States. Due to the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, Venezuelans have consistently been the leading nationality requesting asylum in the United States since 2016. As of June 2023, United Nations agencies believe that over 7.3 million Venezuelans have fled the country, many of whom have resettled in neighboring countries like Colombia and Brazil.

Last month, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced the department’s decision to abandon the extension of the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Venezuela established under the Biden Administration. The Trump Administration also took decisive action to terminate the Humanitarian Parole for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans program. This decision directly impacts over 500,000 Venezuelan migrants (300,000 Venezuelans who received TPS in 2023 and 250,000 who received TPS in 2021) and hundreds of thousands of parolees. 

“The Venezuelan Adjustment Act is not just a legislative initiative; it is a moral imperative. Thousands of Venezuelans in the United States live in constant uncertainty, unable to fully rebuild their lives due to the lack of a clear legal pathway to stability. These individuals have fled a regime where totalitarianism suppresses fundamental freedoms, and the prospect of democratic change remains nonexistent. The approval of this bill will allow more than 400,000 Venezuelans to live with stability and security, free from the fear of family separation or an uncertain future,” said Mildred Rodriguez, CEO of My Voice Counts Charities Foundation Inc. Furthermore, it will provide them with the opportunity to obtain permanent residency, ensuring their full integration into the nation that has offered them refuge. This is not only a humanitarian response but also a strategic investment in a community that contributes to the economic, social, and cultural fabric of the United States. The Venezuelan Adjustment Act represents a step toward justice, offering stability, dignity, and a future free from fear.”

For the full text of the bill, please click here.

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Soto, Castor, Tonko Lead Letter Expressing Opposition to Federal Highway Administration’s Illegal Decision to Rescind the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Darren Soto (D-FL)

Members believe it is critical for the United States to continue assisting rural and working-class areas with access to charging stations, enhance electric vehicle manufacturing competitiveness, and develop our national charging station infrastructure

WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) and Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14) and Paul Tonko (NY-20) led a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and Federal Highway Administration Executive Director Gloria M. Shepherd expressing strong opposition to the Federal Highway Administration’s illegal decision to rescind all National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program guidance, funding, and approval of all State Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Express Deployment plans.

 

“It is our belief that the FHWA’s February 6, 2025, decision to rescind the NEVI program is illegal and will increase costs on Americans, states, and local communities. Congress authorized $5 billion for FY22 through FY26 in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for states to deploy EV charging infrastructure,” wrote the Members.“Leaders from every state submitted approved plans for EV infrastructure deployment that make critical investments in communities across the country. To date, approximately $3 billion to implement these plans and sign contracts with developers has been legally obligated and must be honored. The remaining $2 billion must still be distributed in accordance with the law.”

 

“Broad-based and convenient electric charging has robust support from our constituents, states, auto manufacturers, retail stores, gas stations looking to diversify, and more. These investments are creating jobs, improving air quality, and bolstering our energy security,” continued the Members. “We believe it is critical for the United States to continue to assist rural and working-class areas with access to charging stations, enhance electric vehicle manufacturing competitiveness, and develop our national charging station infrastructure.”

 

“As such, in addition to an explanation of the FHWA’s decision and its purported authority to rescind the NEVI Program, we request a briefing to inform Members of Congress of the Administration’s plans with respect to EV charging stations and the NEVI Program generally.”

 

For the full text of the letter, please click here. 

 

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Soto, Buchanan Continue Bipartisan Push to Protect Manatees

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Darren Soto (D-FL)

Soto co-sponsored the Manatee Protection Act of 2025 to upgrade the West Indian manatee from “threatened” to “endangered” under the Endangered Species Act and re-introduced the Manatee Stamp Act to generate more funding for U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service manatee protection efforts through the creation of a semipostal stamp

WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) announced efforts to continue protecting manatees in the 119th Congress by co-sponsoring H.R. 135, the Manatee Protection Act of 2025, introduced by Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16). The Manatee Protection Act of 2025 would officially upgrade the West Indian manatee from “threatened” to “endangered” under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Upgrading their designation under the ESA would require the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) to refocus their attention on manatee population rehabilitation and allow for increased federal resources, including more funding and personnel.

“Last year, over 550 manatees died in Florida. This is alarming and should prompt us to take action to protect them from experiencing further tragedies. We must do everything in our power to protect these precious mammals,” said Rep. Soto.

“Manatees are beloved, iconic mammals in Florida,” said Rep. Buchanan. “The heart-breaking number of manatee deaths over the past few years is staggering and extremely concerning, which is why upgrading their ESA status is absolutely critical. We must do everything we can to protect these gentle giants and Florida’s official marine mammal.”

Upon introduction, the Manatee Protection Act of 2025 was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources, of which Rep. Soto is a member. 

Additionally, Rep. Soto re-introduced H.R. 704, the Manatee Stamp Act, to require the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to issue a manatee semipostal stamp that will generate proceeds for the FWS to continue their efforts to protect manatees and manatee habitats. After its introduction in the 118th Congress, the USPS released a “Save Manatees” stamp in 2024. 

“We’ve had a couple of tough years with our manatees,” said Rep. Soto. “With unusual mortality events in the last five years—which caused us to lose thousands of manatees in Florida—it is critical to take every possible approach to help these mammals thrive and survive. We were thrilled to see the USPS launch the ‘Save Manatees’ stamp in 2024, which helped save the cost of design, but our bill is still necessary to help proceeds go towards conservation efforts. We are optimistic and hope to see Congress advance the Manatee Stamp Act quickly.” 

Upon introduction, the Manatee Stamp Act was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

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Soto, Bilirakis Introduce Legislation to Study Causes of Sinkhole Formation, Provide Public Information on Risk Zones

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Darren Soto (D-FL)

The Sinkhole Mapping Act directs the USGS to conduct studies on mechanisms that potentially contribute to the triggering of sinkholes, as well as open a public website that displays maps depicting zones at greater risk of sinkhole formation

WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Reps. Darren Soto (D-FL-09) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12) introduced H.R. 900, the Sinkhole Mapping Act— bipartisan legislation that directs the U.S. Geological Survey to conduct studies on the short- and long-term mechanisms that potentially contribute to the triggering of sinkholes. This includes extreme storm events, prolonged droughts leading to shifts in water management practices, as well as ongoing aquifer depletion, and other major changes in water use.

“Sinkholes pose a serious risk to Florida’s communities, infrastructure, and economy, yet we still lack a comprehensive mapping system to track and predict these hazards,” said Rep. Soto. “Directing the USGS to study the causes and risks of sinkhole formation will help provide critical data to help protect homeowners, businesses, and first responders. This is an important step toward ensuring public safety and strengthening our resilience against these natural threats.”

“In recent years, we have seen throughout Tampa Bay how dangerous sinkholes can be for neighborhoods. To improve public safety and consumer protection, we need to study the causes and remedies of sinkholes while developing geological maps to delineate the highest risk areas for sinkholes to occur. I look forward to working on this important bipartisan initiative with my colleagues,” said Rep. Bilirakis.

Currently, there is no database displaying all sinkholes in Florida. This presents challenges not just for land developers and residents but also for community planners and first responders. The Sinkhole Mapping Act will also direct the director of the USGS to open a public website that displays maps depicting zones at greater risk of sinkhole formation, giving community planners and first responders access to critical information.

In addition to Reps. Soto and Bilirakis, the Sinkhole Mapping Act is cosponsored by Florida Reps. Kathy Castor (D-FL-11), Maxwell Frost (D-FL-10), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24).

Upon introduction, H.R. 900 was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources, of which Rep. Soto is a member. 

For the full text of the bill, please click here.

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Webster Backs President Trump’s Agenda with Vote to Keep Government Open and Protect American Taxpayers

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Daniel Webster (11th District of Florida)

Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, today voted to keep government open and protect hardworking taxpayers by supporting H.R. 1968, the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025.
 
“Today I voted to pass H.R. 1968, which ensures we have the tools needed to back President Trump’s agenda to keep the government open, cut wasteful spending, and deliver real, long-term conservative reforms that put America First,” said Rep. Webster.
 
“While I typically oppose short-term funding measures, this legislation rejects the Washington presumption that nothing can be cut from the budget in order to fund priorities without increasing the deficit. H.R. 1968 reduces overall federal spending for Fiscal year 2025, while strengthening border security, providing critical funding for service members and veterans, and protecting American taxpayers. I will continue working alongside President Trump and my Republican colleagues to advance conservative policies that stop the spigot of spending, protect taxpayer, and put America First.”
 
Highlights of H.R. 1968 Include:

  • Ensuring government spends less this year than last year by cutting $13 billion from non-defense spending.
  • Providing the Department of Defense with additional resources to counter international threats and safeguard the United States. 
  • Increasing salary for junior enlisted service members.
  • Supporting President Trump’s immigration enforcement work with $485 million for detention facilities and transporting deportees.
  • Rescinding over $20 billion that was approved by then-President Biden’s so-called Inflation Reduction Act.
  • Providing for our veterans exposed to toxins with $6 billion in funding for the Toxic Exposure Fund, fully addressing the needs of our veterans. 
  • Helping vulnerable mothers and children by approving $425 million for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program and $7.6 billion for the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.
  • Extending the operations of Community Health Centers and Medicare telehealth which were set to expire.

 

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Rep. Webster to Support Bill Keeping Government Open, Protecting American Taxpayers

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Daniel Webster (11th District of Florida)

Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, released the following statement regarding The Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, which the U.S. House of Representatives will vote on this week.
 
“I will be voting to pass the Continuing Resolution this week to keep the government running and give President Trump and my Congressional Republican colleagues and I the time needed to enact real, conservative fiscal reforms. While I generally oppose short-term funding measures, the alternative – allowing Democrats to shut down the government – would only create instability and distraction. The CR ensures that we avoid unnecessary disruptions and stay focused on securing our border, reining in wasteful spending, and strengthening our economy. My colleagues and I will continue to fight to restore fiscal responsibility, and I remain committed to delivering long-term solutions that put America first.”
 

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Webster Votes to Protect Affordable Energy Choices and Oppose Burdensome Regulations

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Daniel Webster (11th District of Florida)

Washington, D.C. — Today, Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, voted to pass H. J. Res. 20, a resolution to overturn the Department of Energy’s (DOE) burdensome regulation on tankless, gas-powered water heaters. 
 
“In its final day, the Biden Administration issued burdensome regulations on water heaters that makes life harder for Americans,” said Rep. Webster. “This rule from former President Biden’s DOE is yet another example of heavy-handed government overreach that ignores the realities of affordability, market availability, and the energy needs of millions of Americans. I will always stand against Washington bureaucrats that try to impose unnecessary regulations that increase costs and reduce choice for Americans.”
 
On December 26, 2024, the Biden Administration’s Department of Energy published a rule that sought to impose new efficiency standards on gas-fired instantaneous water heaters – standards that would have significantly increased costs for consumers while limiting access to reliable and affordable appliances. 
 

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Webster Votes to Increase Pensions for Medal of Honor Recipients

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Daniel Webster (11th District of Florida)

Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, voted to pass H.R. 695, the Medal of Honor Act, legislation that increases the special pension awarded to America’s Medal of Honor recipients. 
 
“The Medal of Honor is awarded to our nation’s service members who demonstrate extraordinary acts of valor, often at a great personal cost,” said Rep. Webster. “This legislation increases the pension for Medal of Honor recipients, ensuring that they receive the dignity and financial security they deserve. We owe our service members a debt we can never repay, and I will always stand for those who have risked everything for our freedoms.”
 
The Medal of Honor is the United States’ highest award for military valor in action and is personally presented by the President of the United States. Under current law, Medal of Honor recipients receive a monthly pension of $1,406.73, equating to $16,880.76 annually. H.R. 695 increases the special pension for Medal of Honor Recipients to receive $100,000 annually. 
 

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Webster Votes to Pass Conservative Budget Plan to Advance President Trump’s Agenda

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Daniel Webster (11th District of Florida)

Washington, D.C. — Florida Congressman Daniel Webster, R-Clermont, voted to pass H. Con. Res. 14, a budget resolution that establishes budgetary targets and instructs congressional committees to draft reconciliation legislation that will cut wasteful spending, strengthen our economy, and restore fiscal responsibility in Washington.
 
“This budget resolution is a first, critical step toward implementing President Trump’s full agenda, and delivering on the promises made to the American people,” said Rep. Webster. “House Republicans’ budget resolution paves the way for historic reforms that ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, and Americans can keep their hard-earned dollars, while also strengthening our border security to keep our communities safe.”
 
H. Con. Res. 14 does not cut or fund any specific programs.  Just as hardworking Americans must decide how much of their salary they will spend every year, this resolution sets top-level spending guidelines fiscal years 2025 through 2034. Under the bill, the U.S. deficit must be reduced nearly $1.5 trillion dollars over the next 10 years.  
 
Next steps are for individual Congressional Committees to meet to develop and pass individual legislation that reduces and prioritizes spending in their areas of jurisdiction. The bill directs committees must prioritize spending on programs and policies that will create jobs, revitalize the American economy and unleash American energy.   
 
Webster further remarked, “By rejecting the Washington presumption that nothing can be cut from the budget in order to fund priorities without increasing the deficit, I am confident we can develop a budget that protects key programs and veteran benefits. I cannot support pulling the rug out from Americans that contributed to Social Security and Medicare for decades and now rely on them in retirement. I am committed to working with my colleagues in Congress and President Trump to ensure we are delivering results for the American people.” 
 

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Bilirakis, Pappas, Malliotakis, Titus, Smith, Pallone, Magaziner, Meng, and Amo Celebrate 204th Anniversary of Greek Independence

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gus Bilirakis (FL-12)

Washington, D.C. –Nearly two million Americans claim Greek ancestry.  Representatives Bilirakis and Pappas who serve as Co-Chairs of the Hellenic Caucus are joined by their colleagues, including: Representatives Nicole Malliotakis, Chris Smith, Dina Titus, Frank Pallone, Seth Magaziner, Grace Meng and Gabe Amo in sponsoring a resolution to commemorate the 204th anniversary of Greek Independence. The resolution emphasizes the hard-fought struggle for independence of the Greek people, and the historic and dynamic relationship that defines the deep American-Hellenic ties.

“It is with great pride that I recognize the 204thAnniversary of Greek Independence and celebrate Greek and American democracy. Like the American revolutionaries who fought for independence and established this great republic we call the ‘Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave’, Greek freedom fighters began an arduous struggle to win independence for Greece and its people 204 years ago. The lessons the Greeks taught us continue to provide strength to victims of persecution throughout the world today. By honoring the Greek struggle for independence, we reaffirm the values and ideas that make our nation great. Each time I perform my Constitutional duties, I am doing so in the legacy of the ancient Greeks and our American forefathers. We celebrate Greek independence to reaffirm the common democratic heritage we share. As Americans, we must continue to pursue this spirit of freedom and liberty that characterizes both great nations,” said Congressman Bilirakis.

“As we mark the 204th anniversary of Greek Independence, I join my fellow Greek-Americans and colleagues of the Hellenic Caucus in commemorating the beginning of the Greeks’ fight for freedom after nearly 400 years of occupation by the Ottoman Empire,” said Congressman Pappas. “Greece’s courage and determination for independence mirrors the United States’ own fight for sovereignty and further unites our nations with a shared commitment to freedom and to democracy. Today we recognize the anniversary of Greek Independence and honor those lost in the pursuit of freedom.”

“I’m honored to join Rep. Bilirakis and my colleagues in Hellenic Caucus in celebrating the 204th anniversary of Greece’s Independence from the Ottoman Empire. As a vital NATO ally, Greece plays a critical role in bolstering security in the Mediterranean region and its strong military and economic ties with the United States are essential and continue to grow,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis.

“The United States remains steadfast in our bipartisan support for Greece. With this bill, we congratulate the Greek people on their Independence Day, demonstrate our countries’ shared values, and commit to our strong partnership now and in the future. I look forward to many more years of friendship between our countries,” said Representative Pallone.

“On this meaningful anniversary, we recognize the special bond between the United States and Greece and celebrate the boundless spirit of the vibrant Hellenic diaspora,” said Congresswoman Dina Titus. “In Congress, I will ensure the United States remains a steadfast ally and continues to bolster stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.’”