State Senator Debbie Mayfield – Mayfield Minute 10/13/24

Good Morning!

Post Hurricane Milton Update

Last week the west coast of Florida received a direct hit by category three Hurricane Milton in Siesta Key.

Sadly, 21 Floridians lost their lives due to the devastating storm. The fatalities easily could have been double or triple if not for the pre-storm preparation led by Governor DeSantis, the Department of Emergency Management, and the brave and courageous first responders who risked their lives to save others.

Hurricane Milton made landfall at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday evening in Sarasota County with sustained winds of over 120 miles per hour, historic rain totals, and storm surge causing destruction across the Florida peninsula. The effects are significant as the State continues to recover and rebuild from Hurricane Helene just two weeks prior.

Florida residents were struck by a band of catastrophic and fatal tornadoes touching down in Vero Beach, Cocoa Beach, Fort Pierce, Palm Beach Gardens, and Miami creating havoc and exponential damage to life and property. The National Weather Service reported a record number of 126 tornado warnings were issued during the storm.

As of Friday evening, over 1,400 individuals and 140 animals were rescued. Power has been restored for 3 million residents and approximately 980,000 million remain without power. Over 12,000 miles of roadway has been cleared from debris by 468 “cut and toss” crews. Over 2,400 bridges were inspected in the first 48 hours since landfall. Florida Department of Transportation reports over 92% of bridge inspections are complete.

If you or your family need assistance following Hurricane Milton, feel free to contact our office at 321-409-2025 or visit the Brevard County Emergency Management Recovery Page.

I consider it a great honor to represent District 19. Please share this link with your friends and family so they too, can sign up for the Mayfield Minute.

If you or someone you know needs my assistance, please do not hesitate to contact my office. My staff and I are here to serve you!

Statewide Update

How to Get Help and How You Can Help

General Assistance

The Hope Line (1-833-GET-HOPE) is available 24/7 for at least two weeks to assist those in need of resources or other assistance after the storm. Activate Hope has been deployed to help connect Floridians in need of food, supplies, home repairs, and more. Fill out the form here to get help

The State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) is open 24/7 at 1-800-342-3557.

Veterans

If you or your family members are in need of assistance, the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) State Veterans’ Service Officers are available to take calls at (727) 319-7440 or via email at [email protected].

Agriculture

For those in the agricultural industry, you can request assistance for livestock and animals in critical need. Email [email protected] or call 1-863-993-5460. 

Travel

If you are traveling outside of Brevard and Indian River counties for work or leisure post storm, visit www.FL511.com as some roads and bridges may not have reopened.

Restauranters

DBPR has encouraged impacted food service businesses to take advantage of the temporary food kitchen option as the Department works to help your business re-open as soon as possible. Food service operators can register their temporary kitchens here.

Contractors

The Florida Disaster Contractors Network has been activated to connect homeowners with licensed contractors and suppliers to perform emergency repairs. DBPR encourages Florida’s licensed contractors who provide post-storm construction-related services to register with the Florida Disaster Contractors at Network at DCNOnline.org.

FEMA Assistance

Impacted residents can apply for FEMA assistance by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov,using the FEMA mobile app or calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).

Organizations Accepting Donations

The Florida Disaster Fund (FDF) is the state’s private fund overseen by Volunteer Florida. The FDF was initially established to provide financial assistance to our communities as they respond to and recover from disaster emergencies.

If you are interested in contributing to the Florida Disaster fund, click here.  

Samaritans Purse is accepting monetary donations only. If you would like to provide an in-kind donation, please reach out to a local church or organizations accepting supplies. To donate to Samaritans Purse, click here.

Additionally, the Red Cross is accepting donations. For more information, click here

Tips for Avoiding Fraud After a Hurricane

Unfortunately, in times of disaster and distress, bad actors may take advantage of the vulnerable. As part of the Fraud Free Florida initiative, Florida’s Chief Financial Officer published a series of tips on avoiding fraud in the wake of Hurricane Milton.

The number one tip the CFO’s office suggests is, “Don’t sign anything!” After storms, people may go door to door and offer repair services. Do not give these individuals cash or enter a contract with them, instead call your insurance company or the CFO’s office at 1-877-693-5236 immediately.

They also advise that you obtain multiple estimates for repairs. A good estimator will include clearly defined, itemized costs and terms.

If you suspect that you are dealing with fraud, report it immediately at FraudFreeFlorida.com or 1-800-378-0445.

Click here to view the full list of tips.

FloridaCommerce Activates Two Programs to Help Small Businesses Impacted by Hurricane Milton

Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program

FloridaCommerce activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program (EBLP), making $50 million available for businesses impacted by Hurricane Milton. Businesses and sole proprietors in Brevard County and Indian River County are eligible to apply for assistance. 

The EBLP provides short-term, zero-interest loans with flexible repayment options to small businesses that experienced “economic injury or physical damage” due to Hurricane Milton. The deadline to apply is now through December 4, 2024 or until all available funds are expended.

Loans available for those eligible businesses include: 

  • Small Businesses: Loans up to $50,000
  • Agriculture and Aquaculture Small Businesses: Loans up to $100,000
  • Citrus and Cattle Operations: Loans up to $150,000

For more information or to apply, click here or call 1-833-832-4494.

Business Damage Assessment Survey

FloridaCommerce and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) activated the Business Damage Assessment Survey in response to Hurricane Milton. Business owners can self-report physical and economic damage caused by Hurricane Milton. Survey responses allow the state to expedite Hurricane Milton recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of impacted businesses.

To participate in the survey online or if you need additional assistance with your business click here and select “Hurricane Milton” from the dropdown menu. You can also call the private sector hotline at 850-815-4925 or email [email protected].

Agency Highlight

Florida State Guard

In 2022, Governor Ron DeSantis reactivated the Florida State Guard (FSG) as a state-supported volunteer force to provide a rapid emergency response.

Since the relaunch, the FSG’s continued growth in capability and personnel is strengthening Florida’s emergency response in aviation, maritime, and land-based operations. The FSG is committed to serving Florida families in need—anytime, anywhere.

Currently, 23 states and the territory of Puerto Rico actively maintain state guards. State guards are authorized under Title 32 of the U.S. Code and operate distinctly from the National Guard. They are state-funded, overseen by the Governor, and focused on the needs of our state.

The mission and vision of the FSG is to protect and preserve the life and property of Floridians through rapid deployment of ground, maritime, and air capabilities in partnership with state and local agencies. 

The Executive Director of the FSG is Mark Thieme, appointed on October 27, 2023 by Governor DeSantis. Director Thieme oversees operations, mission alignment, administration, personnel, training, procurement, and all other functional components of the FSG.

He has over 35 years of experience in public service, including more than 15 years of executive leadership and senior operations management throughout his career in the United States Marine Corps (USMC). He enlisted in the USMC in 1987 as an infantryman and was selected for his leadership abilities to earn a commission as an infantry officer in 1994.

While serving in the USMC, Director Thieme led large-scale, cross-functional teams in dynamic environments. He successfully launched an emerging civil-military organization focused on enabling and assisting local governments in crisis management and emergency response.

For his dedication and service, he received numerous awards such as the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.

For more information or to join the FSG, click here

Constituent of the Week

Chief Master Sergeant

Brandon Daugherty

Our Constituent of the Week is Chief Master Sergeant Brandon Daugherty. 

He was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona and joined the United States Air Force (USAF) as a Pararescuemen (PJ) after the twin towers struck in 2001, and served on active duty for 10 years. 

Chief Master Sergeant Daugherty has been deployed seven times as a Pararescue Team Leader supporting combat search and rescue operations during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, during the joint task force mission in the Horn of Africa, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. 

Chief Master Sergeant Daugherty joined the USAF Reserves in 2012 and is still serving as the 920th Operations Group Superintendent.  He also provided humanitarian support missions during Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita, and completed over 120 hoist rescues during Hurricane Harvey.

He joined the U.S. Department of Defense and moved to the Space Coast in 2015. He was assigned to develop the Astronaut Rescue and Recovery program for NASA for the Department of Defense. Mr. Daugherty served in that position until 2021.

In 2020, he became the CEO of Operator Solutions, a contracted rescue service operation that supports the commercial space industry. During that time, Operator Solutions, acquired hoist equipment, boats, aircraft, and established medical and pararescue teams to rescue victims and provide resources to them in times of disaster. Most recently, his team served those stranded in Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. 

When asked about Operator Solutions’ efforts regarding Hurricane Milton, Chief Sergeant Daugherty stated that they will be wherever and whenever needed, and that the state had things well under control.   

In 2013, Chief Master Sergeant Daugherty had a close friend he was mentoring, a former combat medic, that took his own life. He vowed that he would find a way to be part of the solution and not blindly ignore the mental health crisis facing military members and first responders. 

He became involved with the Sheepdog Corporation which was founded and developed by individuals who have real combat experience, and know the struggles and hardships that can only be learned through such experience. He currently serves on the Board of Directors.

Click on these links to learn more and support Operator Solutions or the Sheepdog Corporation,

Chief Master Sergeant Brandon Daugherty is a member of the Patrick Space Force Base community. District 19 is grateful for his bravery, leadership, and compassion towards disaster victims, Veterans, members of our military. 

District Highlights

Brevard County Opens Hurricane Milton Website to Report Damage 

Residents are encouraged to complete a damage report if your property or home has been affected as a result of Hurricane Milton. This includes water in your home, roof, or structural damage, etc.

This form is not an application for assistance. Brevard County Emergency Management uses this information to make informed decisions on operations to serve our community.

Residents are asked to provide your name, property address, and photos of the damage incurred. You can click this link to complete the form.

FPL Continues to Work 24/7 to Restore Power

Power restoration continues to progress exponentially as FPL lineman are working 24/7. For those who are still impacted, you can click this link for a status update or call 1-866-263-9186.

The company estimates 90% of all statewide impacted customers will have their power restored by the end-of-day Monday, October 14th. They expect 95% of Brevard and Indian River counties’ customers will have their power restored by end of day Thursday, October 17th, if not sooner. 

If you’re in need of assistance, you can visit FPL’s customer outage relief site in Brevard County (845 Palm Bay Road) in Melbourne for essentials like ice, water, and answers to restoration-related questions.

City of Melbourne Water Rebates Available

To incentivize water saving measures post-storms, the City of Melbourne has begun offering a new $50 rebate for residents. To become eligible for the rebate, residents can install a composter with a capacity of at least 30 gallons, install a rain barrel with a capacity of at least 40 gallons, or replace a pre-1994 toilet with a new WaterSense certified high-efficiency toilet.

The city also stated that in addition to the rebate, residents who take appropriate action may save money on their water bills. The rebates are available from now until September 30, 2025.

Only one rebate is available per address/account. For additional information, call the city’s Environmental Community Outreach Division at (321) 608-5080 or email them at [email protected].

80th Space Coast Honor Flight

The 80th and final Space Coast Honor Flight (SCHF) of 2024 took place on Saturday, October 12th. Thirty distinguished Veterans from the Korean and Vietnam Wars, along with their guardian escorts and SPCH volunteers, flew to Washington, D.C. to visit their war memorial monuments.

The one-day, all expenses paid trips provide a memorable and collaborative opportunity for Veterans to reflect upon their deployments and reminisce with their fellow service members.

Since 2010, nearly 2,100 Veterans have traveled to our nation’s Capitol through the SCHF program. In 2025, the organization has confirmed six SCHF trips. They are seeking Veterans who would enjoy this historic experience. The organization is in need of volunteers, guardian escorts, and donations to assist with the 2025 trips.

For more information, to register a Veteran, or sign up as a volunteer or guardian escort, click here. You can also call SCHF at 321-456-7031 or send an email to [email protected].

Upcoming Events

Annual “Purses with a Purpose” Event to Benefit Serene Harbor

Serene Harbor will host their popular fundraising luncheon “Purses with a Purpose” on Wednesday, October 16th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Eau Gallie Yacht Club (100 Datura Drive) in Indian Harbour Beach. 

Tickets are selling fast online at www.sereneharbor.org and are available for $60. The event features designer handbags paired with experience packages as part of an auction led by Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey. There will also be an awards ceremony for Serene Harbor’s community partners, volunteers, and supporters. 

Proceeds will benefit domestic violence programs at Serene Harbor and the Nadene Cavaliere Center. Some of the programs and services Serene Harbor provides include a 24/7/365 confidential hotline, counseling services, transportation, relocation assistance, support groups, education support, and financial empowerment initiatives for survivors of domestic violence.  

For more information, click here or call 321-726-8282.

Viera Harvest Festival Including Kids’ Scarecrow Building Contest

The Viera Harvest Festival and Scarecrow Auction will take place on Saturday, October 19th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Woodside Park (1705 Crane Creek Boulevard) in Viera East.

Activities include the Penny Creek Bluegrass Band providing live music all day, food and beverages, a pumpkin patch, the hay maze, photo opportunities with hay bale horses, and the Kids’ Fall Costume Contest. To participate in the Kids’ Mini-Crow (Scarecrow) Building Contest. you must register in advance here.

For more information on all events taking place and prizes that will be awarded during the Viera Harvest Festival, click here.

2024 She Means Business Expo

The “2024 She Means Business Expo” hosted by weVENTURE, Women’s Business Center at Florida Tech, will take place on Saturday, October 26th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Pavilions 1 and 2 at Wickham Park (2500 Parkway Drive) in Melbourne.

Attendees will have the opportunity to shop, network, and share experiences while exploring the latest trends in products and services offered by women-owned businesses. 

General admission is free and there will be a variety of food trucks, prize giveaways, music, and more.

This expo is part of a larger international initiative supported by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and hosted by the local Iota Pi Omega chapter of Brevard County in partnership with weVENTURE Women’s Business Center. The intent is to advocate for economic opportunities for women, highlight local women entrepreneurs, encourage partnerships, and help build the economic wealth of women and their families.

For more information, click here.

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Contact Information

Melbourne Office 

900 East Strawbridge Avenue

Melbourne, FL 32901

(321) 409-2025

Tallahassee Office

400 Senate Office Building

404 South Monroe Street

Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100

(850) 487-5019

Staff:

Yvette Campbell

Kelli Lane

State Senator Debbie Mayfield – Mayfield Minutes – National Breast Cancer Awareness Month 10/06/24

Good Morning!

National Breast Cancer Awareness month is recognized in October annually. Sadly, one in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point during their lifetime. This devastating disease remains the most common cancer among women, accounting for 32% of newly diagnosed cancers. 

Although unprecedented treatment achievements have been made and despite the tireless and conscientious efforts of doctors, researchers, and non-profit organizations, the disease continues to impact families across the nation. According to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, “About every two minutes, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer.” 

In 2024, an estimated 42,250 women and 530 men in the United States will lose their lives to breast cancer.

While these statistics are grim, there is hope. Many advancements in research, prevention, early detection, and treatment are providing affected women a bright light at the end of this dark tunnel. 

  • Improvements in early detection and treatment contributed to a 42% decline in the breast cancer death rate from 1989-2021
  • Over four million women have survived breast cancer in the United States

The Florida Department of Health (FLDOH) recommends that all women over the age of 50 get a mammogram once every two years.

To determine if you are eligible for a free or low-cost exam through the Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, call (321) 454-7131.  

I consider it a great honor to represent District 19. Please share this link with your friends and family so they too, can sign up for the Mayfield Minute.

If you or someone you know needs my assistance, please do not hesitate to contact my office. My staff and I are here to serve you!

Statewide Update

Governor DeSantis Announces Emergency Management Warning in Advance of Tropical Storm Milton

On Saturday, October 5th, Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order (EO) 24-214, an Emergency Management action, regarding the newly formed Tropical Storm Milton. The Executive Order covers 35 Florida counites including Brevard and Indian River. 

Tropical Storm Milton, the 13th named storm in the 2024 hurricane season, has formed in the Gulf of Mexico and is estimate to become a major hurricane before hitting Florida next week. 

According to the Tampa Bay Times, as of Saturday at 5:00 p.m., Tropical Storm Milton is forecast to intensify while moving northeastward toward Florida’s Gulf Coast and could make landfall Wednesday as a Category 3 hurricane or stronger.

The National Hurricane Center reported Saturday afternoon. Milton strengthened from a depression into a tropical storm within just hours, reaching sustained winds of 40 miles per hour. This storm is developing rapidly. 

Please visit floridadisaster.org regularly for the latest information and follow this link to “Know Your Zone” as evacuations may be declared.

Hurricane Helene Update and How You Can Help

Governor DeSantis announced that all school districts as of October 3rd are now operational. Unfortunately, at the time of this report, 16,413 Floridians remain without power. Power has been restored to 2,386,942 residents who were without power due to Hurricane Helene. 

Tragically, over 230 people have lost their lives due to the storm’s destruction in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. 

How You Can Help:

Last week, Governor DeSantis launched Operation Blue Ridge, through the Florida Division of Emergency Management, to rescue Floridians stranded or strapped in Western North Carolina. If you know of someone who needs rescue assistance, complete this formor call 1-800-467-7144 during the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The Florida Disaster Fund (FDF) is the state’s private fund overseen by Volunteer Florida. The FDF was initially established to provide financial assistance to our communities as they respond to and recover from disaster emergencies.

If you are interested in contributing to the Florida Disaster fund, click here.  

President Trump has also set up a www.gofundme.com account to support Hurricane Helene victims.

Additionally, the Red Cross is accepting donations. For more information, click here.  

AG Moody Announces “AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2024”

Last week, Attorney General Ashley Moody and 11 other state Attorneys General called on Congress to pass the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act of 2024.

According to a release by AG Moody’s office, the destruction and life-threatening conditions caused during Hurricane Helene shows that bipartisan protections for AM radios in vehicles are critical—as electric vehicles and other new vehicles are being manufactured without the vital communication devices.

“Following devastation and loss in Florida and across multiple states in the wake of Hurricane Helene, it has never been clearer how vital it is to protect access to AM radio. I have personally heard on-the-ground stories of Floridians who lost power, access to internet and cellphone service during storms, including Hurricane Helene. AM radio signals remained functional. We must ensure access to AM radio signals; lives depend on it,” said AG Moody. 

Attorneys General from Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and West Virginia have joined in this initiative.

Read the full letter here.

Agency Highlight

Florida Department of Health

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) is led by the Florida Surgeon General, Joseph D. Ladapo, MD, PhD. Dr. Ladapo is appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate to serve as the state’s chief medical expert.

DOH was first created by the state’s legislature in 1996, and the role of Surgeon General has existed since 2007. The mission of the agency is to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

One of the important functions of the department is to conduct research into public health concerns and report on the findings. These reports can include statistics on annual cancer diagnoses, violent death rates, behavioral risk factors, and a variety of environmental health factors. This data is provided at both the state and county levels to inform Floridians and community leaders on threats to public health.

The DOH also has dedicated programs and resources targeting specific health issues and demographics. To explore each program individually, click here. In addition to making these resources available to the public, the department also manages public health campaigns with the goal of informing citizens about what they see as the most critical health issues. Recent examples of public health campaigns include Tobacco Free Florida, Bright Expectations, and Cancer Connect.

I am proud to have been appointed by Senate President Kathleen Passidomo to Florida’s Cancer Connect Collaborative. It is an honor to serve on this board, which is organized in partnership with the DOH and the Agency for Healthcare Administration. The Cancer Connect Collaborative was designed to be an expansion of Florida Cancer Connect to analyze and rethink Florida’s approach to combating cancer.

DOH also provides and oversees licensure for all healthcare professionals in the state. These professional licenses cover a wide variety of fields including doctors, nurses, massage therapists, and many other careers in health care. They also provide the licenses for the state’s regulated medical facilities. Click here to learn more about each type of license the department offers, to verify a provider’s license, to apply for licensure, or to file a complaint against a provider.

DOH also helps Floridians request important documents including certificates for birth, death, marriage, and divorce. They can also assist with filling out the necessary forms to make any amendments to these documents. An example of this would be amending a birth certificate to reflect a legal name change or an adoption.

To provide services locally, each of Florida’s 67 counties has their own health department overseen by the DOH. If you need to visit or contact the Florida Department of Health in Brevard County, click here for a list of their offices and services. 

Constituent of the Week

Our Constituent of the Week is Shelly Gardner, a three time cancer survivor — one time breast cancer, two times Leukemia.

Ms. Gardner was raised in Waynesville, Illinois, a small farming community in the Midwest. She began working in the farming industry at the age of 12 and she credits the experience for her strong work ethic to this day.   

After high school, she attended Illinois State University where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and a Master’s degree in Business Administration. After college, she served as a Financial Controller for the Smurfit-Stone Corporation, Nestlé, and LIN Media. 

Ms. Gardner moved to Brevard County in 2010. She is the co-founder of Thermography of Brevard which is the only medical thermography practice specializing in breast cancer screening in Brevard County. Thermography of Brevard has been in business for eight years.

Thermography is not only for breast cancer detection. Thermography can detect dysfunction and physiological changes throughout the body, including thyroid dysfunction, liver, kidney, spleen, esophagus, uterus, ovaries, inflammation in the carotid arteries, systemic inflammation, DVT, and more.

Unfortunately, Ms. Gardner’s personal health care journey began with her own breast cancer diagnosis in her mid-30’s. She knows firsthand the hardships that cancer can cause — extended hospital stays, chemotherapy, job loss, and additional complications including heart failure, renal failure, early menopause/infertility, and neuropathy. 

Her illness did not end there, she was later diagnosed with Acute Myloid Leukemia twice, the first time while pregnant with her daughter, Tegan, who she refers to as her miracle child. Ms. Gardner and Tegan had a lengthy fight at birth but both are thriving now almost 12 years later.

Sadly, Ms. Gardner has stated publicly, “I should not be alive with the things I have endured but attitude, faith, and purpose can never be underestimated.”

Due to her consistent illnesses, Ms. Gardner has been unable to work full-time, however she continues to serve the community and as a volunteer for the cancer support groups, Making Strides of Brevard and Making Strides of the Florida Keys. She also helps teaching at the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University at Calvary Chapel in Melbourne. 

In 2019, Ms. Gardner founded Stop the Pink, Inc., a 501c3 non-profit, with a mission to offer women experiencing financial hardship in Indian River and Brevard County access to thermography. She says thermography is painless, non-invasive, radiation free and compression free. Breast thermography has an average sensitivity and specificity of 90%. Also, thermography has the added benefit of detecting the first signs that cancer may be forming up to 10 years before any other procedure can detect it.  

“I feel passionate about educating women on preventing breast cancer,” stated Gardner. “I believe prevention is better than detection and want no woman to have go through what I have endured.”

For more information, contact Gardner at [email protected] or 321-345-0407 or on the web at www.StopThePink.org.

SD 19 is grateful for Ms. Gardner’s compassion, experience, and empathy in sharing her personal story and her launching of Stop the Pink for other women in our community and beyond. 

District Highlights

Cocoa Beach Chamber of Commerce – Best in Florida

At the annual conference of the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals, the Cocoa Beach Chamber was named as the best in the state in the category of $500,000 – $1,000,000 in annual operating budget.

“What an amazing honor for our Chamber and community. The Cocoa Beach Chamber is truly an exceptional organization,” said Skip Marsh, CFO of Community Health Services at Health First.

Congratulations to the Cocoa Beach Camber for a well deserved recognition.

Community Foundation for Brevard Recently Awarded Over $400,000 in Grants

The Community Foundation for Brevard (CFB) provides funding to non-profit organizations services and resources for causes and initiatives which benefit animal protections, arts and culture, education, the environment, health and wellness communities, senior care, disability services, and many other philanthropic organizations.

“We are proud to support this year’s grant recipients whose work will bring impactful change to Brevard,” said Donna Sewell, Director of Philanthropy for the CFB.

Ms. Sewell went on to say that the grants represent the generosity and vision of individuals and families committed to building a stronger, more compassionate community to provide opportunities for all.

The CFB has donated more than $30 million over the last 43 years in support of Brevard non-profits.

Some of the organizations receiving these generous awards are 211 Brevard, Inc., Aging Matters in Brevard, Brevard Cultural Alliance, Brevard Symphony Orchestra, Inc., Brevard Zoo, Candlelighters of Brevard, Inc., the Early Coalition of Brevard, Helping Seniors of Brevard County, Inc., the Children’s Hunger Project, Titusville Playhouse, weVenture Women’s Business Center at FIT, and the Women’s Center of Brevard, among many other deserving non-profits.

If your are interested in participating in 2025 Competitive Grant process, please call 321-752-5505 for more information.

Melbourne High School Football Celebrates 100th Season

Melbourne High School played their first football game on October 3, 1925 according to Martin Cagney, historian of the program.

In addition to celebrating their 100th season, the Bulldogs will play their 1,000th game in school history on Thursday, October 10th at Lyman High School in Longwood.

“Having 100 years here and having that all take place is huge, because now we’re recognizing our heritage, and at the same time, we’re showing that there’s a future,” said Melbourne Head Coach David Kintigh.

“I think the milestones mean quite a bit,” Kintigh said. “I think they (the players) were shocked at first, because none of them really knew what was happening or going on. Now that they’re starting to look at it, it’s like ‘Hey, wow.’ They are part of a century. They are in the first century of this high school’s football program.”

To learn more about the iconic legacy of the Melbourne High School football team and their upcoming schedule, click here.

Upcoming Events

Monday, October 7th is the Last Day to Register to Vote in the November Election

The deadline to register to vote in the 2024 General Election is Monday, October 7th. Voter registration books must close 29 days before each election.

To register to vote using the State of Florida’s Online Voter Registration System click here.

Voter registration requires a valid Florida Driver License or State ID.

If you prefer to register to vote in person, you can print, sign, and return this document to any of the four Supervisor of Elections administrative offices.

Also, the deadline to request a mail ballot for the 2024 General Election is Thursday, October 24th by 5:00 p.m. You can request your mail ballot online here.

If you have any questions or are in need of assistance, please contact my office at 321-409-2025.

Boys and Girls Club of Central Florida Event on the Space Coast

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida will be hosting a Join Me: Faces of the Future breakfast on Friday, October 11th from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at the Space Coast Convention Center (301 Tucker Lane) in Cocoa.

The event is free of charge but an RSVP is required to Erin Harvey at [email protected] or 407-625-4668. The event is expected to reach capacity and BGCCF wants to ensure everyone interested in attending has a seat.

Organizers describe the event as a brief program where attendees will meet the “faces of our community’s future and leave with a heart full of hope and inspiration.”

Boo in the Zoo

Each weekend during the month of October, the Brevard Zoo (8225 North Wickham Road) in Melbourne will be hosting their annual Halloween-themed event, Boo in the Zoo.

The event is from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday throughout the month. Attendees are invited to wear Halloween costumes and they can have their faces painted, enjoy trick-or-treat activities, and view the animals.

Each weekend will also include different performances by local artists. Click here for more information.

Regular admission to the zoo is the only cost to attend. Ticket prices are currently $32.95 for adults and $21.95 for children ages 11 or under. To purchase a ticket, click here.

26th Annual Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival

There will be a festival of independent short films taking place from Thursday, October 17th through Saturday, October 19th. The showings will be held at the Premiere Theatres Oaks 10 (1800 West Hibiscus Boulevard) in Melbourne.

The Matinee on Saturday will feature only films made locally in Florida, and there will be a “Rising Star” segment highlighting young filmmakers in Florida. All profits from the festival will be donated directly to the No Limits Academy, a non-profit Christian School for physically disabled children ages six to 21.

Click here to view ticket packages. The schedule of films that will be presented is available here

Mathew’s Hope to Hold Fall Vintage Market

Mathew’s Hope will be hosting a vintage market at the Trinity Oaks Event Venue (830 Forrest Avenue) in Cocoa on Saturday, October 12th from 4:00 p.m.to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, October 13th from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

This market is free to attend and will include access to over 50 local vendors selling vintage goods. Live music performances and food and drinks will be available.

For more information, click here.

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Contact Information

Melbourne Office 

900 East Strawbridge Avenue

Melbourne, FL 32901

(321) 409-2025

Tallahassee Office

400 Senate Office Building

404 South Monroe Street

Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100

(850) 487-5019

Staff:

Yvette Campbell

Kelli Lane

US Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review 10/05/24

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Dear Fellow Floridian,

Florida is incredibly resilient, we’ve recovered from devastating storms before and we will do it again. But communities recovering from Hurricane Helene aren’t in this alone – it’s all hands on deck. Local, state and federal partners must all come together to and work to support each other to get families back on their feet. My job as Florida’s U.S. Senator is to stand alongside them in their recovery, and I am fighting every day to ensure FEMA, the USDA, SBA, HUD and the entire federal government shows up and does their part.

As soon as FEMA, the SBA and communities assess damage and determine what they need for recovery, I’ve called on Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to immediately reconvene the Senate to pass a clean supplemental disaster funding bill and other disaster relief legislation, like my Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, to ensure the full recovery of families in all impacted communities. I’ve also called on FEMA Administrator Criswell to work in concert with the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) to address emergency housing needs and USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to make assistance available immediately through state block grants to our farmers and agriculture industry. Additionally, I met with President Biden in Taylor County to deliver one clear message – the federal government’s response to hurricanes over the last two years has left too many Floridians hurting and with unmet needs – especially with housing and disaster relief for Florida’s farmers – and this must be fixed NOW. I’ll be fighting like hell to deliver disaster aid to our state, and ensure seamless debris removal guidance for our local communities, and I urged President Biden to put Floridians and all Americans first by doing the same.

I have nine offices in Florida, and an office in Washington, and while I fight on the federal level to deliver resources to the state, my team and I are standing by, ready to help any Floridian needing assistance with a federal agency, like FEMA, the USDA, SBA, HUD or any other federal issue while recovering from Hurricane Helene. I urge Florida families and businesses to contact us HERE or visit one of our Mobile Office Hours over the coming days so we may continue to coordinate resources and ensure a full recovery for everyone in our state impacted by this monstrous storm.

For my full Hurricane Helene resource guide, click HERE.

Sincerely,

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Rick Scott

United States Senator

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Sen. Rick Scott in Meeting with Biden: Federal Gov. Must Fully Support Florida’s Recovery from Hurricane Helene

Senator Rick Scott joined President Joe Biden, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack, officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and local officials in Taylor County to meet with families, tour impacts of Hurricane Helene in the area and receive an update on response and recovery efforts. Senator Scott urged President Biden to fully and immediately support the requests of the State of Florida, Florida’s congressional delegation and local leaders as the state recovers from Hurricane Helene. Senator Scott has been fighting to ensure the State of Florida and communities across the nation impacted by Hurricane Helene have the full support needed from the federal government as they recover. Senator Scott has been sounding the alarm on potential funding shortfalls within FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund for months. Now, as Florida and several states recover from Hurricane Helene, he is calling on Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to immediately reconvene the Senate and vote on a clean Hurricane Helene supplemental aid package once FEMA, local and state officials determine the funding needs, as well as his Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, to bring relief to families.

Senator Rick Scott said, “While I appreciate President Biden, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack and officials from FEMA coming to Florida to see the damage here firsthand, there is so much work to be done. During my meeting with President Biden, I stressed that the federal government’s response to hurricanes over the last two years has left too many Floridians, especially our farmers, hurting and with unmet needs – and this must be fixed NOW. It is going to take local, state and federal efforts to help communities recover along the Gulf Coast. That’s why I’ve demanded that Majority Leader Chuck Schumer immediately reconvene the Senate once FEMA and the SBA finalize damage assessments so we can fully fund these agencies, the USDA, and others responding to this disaster with a clean disaster supplemental appropriations bill. I’ll be fighting like hell to deliver disaster aid to our state, and ensure seamless debris removal guidance for our local communities, and I urged the federal officials there today to put Floridians and all Americans first by doing the same. Since Hurricane Ian, Washington has played games with disaster relief funds and delayed the delivery of urgently needed FEMA assistance, and other aid like USDA block grants for Florida’s farmers and my Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act. This aid has been routinely provided to victims of hurricanes in the past but that has not been the case since Hurricanes Ian, Debby and Idalia and that must change so we can deliver this aid NOW.

“Hurricane Helene devastated communities along hundreds of miles of Florida’s Gulf Coast and caused unimaginable damage and loss in Taylor County and across the Big Bend. Since the days before the storm, I’ve visited impacted communities in 11 counties to meet with local and state officials and hear what they need from the federal government, and been in constant contact with state and federal officials to coordinate resources. Floridians are resilient, but recovery doesn’t fall just on these families – it’s an all hands on deck operation that requires the federal government to show up today, tomorrow and every day until the job is done and I won’t stop fighting to make sure that happens.”

Read more HERE.  Lea más en español AQUÍ. 

Sen. Rick Scott to FEMA: Housing for Floridians Displaced by Helene Must be Top Priority

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell requesting that FEMA coordinate closely with the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) on housing recovery. Thousands of Floridians are still without power, and many who evacuated their homes have sadly returned to inhabitable or destroyed homes. In the letter, the senator emphasizes his readiness to partner with local and state partners to work together to get Florida families and businesses the resources they need to recover from Hurricane Helene.

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ. 

Sens. Rick Scott, Marco Rubio & Colleagues to POTUS: Expedite Resources to Floridians

Senator Rick Scott, Senator Marco Rubio and their Florida colleagues sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to expedite the federal response and delivery of requested resources, while approving emergency policy flexibilities, to help the people of Florida following Hurricane Helene which made landfall as a Category 4 storm, causing catastrophic damage along Florida’s Gulf Coast. It’s crucial for the federal government to expedite state-requested resources and authorize key policy flexibilities for Floridians to make a swift recovery.

Joining Senators Scott and Rubio on the letter were U.S. Representatives Greg Steube, Anna Paulina Luna, Laurel Lee, Gus Bilirakis, Vern Buchanan, Kat Cammack, Byron Donalds and Neal Dunn. 

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott and Sen. Marco Rubio Urge FEMA to Expedite Hurricane Reimbursements to Local Governments

Following the landfall of Hurricanes Helene and Debby, Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell urging expedited reimbursements to provide much-needed budget relief to local governments in Florida facing looming budget shortfalls due to outstanding reimbursements from previous hurricanes. In the letter, the senators emphasize that without FEMA timely reimbursements, disaster recovery efforts may be disrupted.

The senators wrote, “Given the devastation in Florida, municipal budget shortfalls could further exacerbate the challenges our communities are facing. Delivering outstanding FEMA reimbursements for costs associated with past storms will help provide the budget flexibilities needed for a robust response to Helene. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.”

Read more HERE.  Lea más en español AQUÍ. 

Sen. Rick Scott: Once FEMA Determines Need, Senate Must Immediately Reconvene to Vote on Helene Aid Package

Senator Rick Scott released the following statement urging Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to immediately reconvene the Senate and vote on a Hurricane Helene supplemental aid package once the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and local and state officials determine the funding need. Senator Scott has been in constant contact with federal officials, local leaders, law enforcement and emergency management officials in communities throughout the state that are impacted by Hurricane Helene to ensure they have the needed resources as they respond to the storm and help Floridians recover. Senator Scott is urging those in need of assistance with a federal agency, like the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Small Business Administration (SBA), or any other federal issue while recovering from Hurricane Helene, to contact his office HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Since Category 4 Hurricane Helene made its devastating landfall in the Big Bend and caused massive and destructive storm surge along hundreds of miles of Florida’s Gulf Coast, I have been traveling to impacted communities to survey damage and coordinate resources between the local, state and federal governments. What I have seen, from the catastrophic damage in Cedar Key, to the massive destruction caused by unprecedented storm surge in communities from Fort Myers Beach to Siesta Key and Anna Maria Island and north to Pinellas, Pasco and Hernando counties is heartbreaking. News reports of the devastation in Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and other communities impacted by Hurricane Helene are also devastating. Floridians are resilient, but the response and recovery from this storm demands the full and immediate support of government at every level to get families and businesses back to normal. While I know from my experience with previous hurricanes that FEMA and SBA damage assessments take time, I am today urging Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to immediately reconvene the U.S. Senate when those assessments are completed so that we can pass the clean supplemental disaster funding bill and other disaster relief legislation, like my Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, needed to ensure the full recovery of families in all impacted communities. While we wait for this critical information, I will keep fighting to make sure that FEMA, the SBA, and the entire federal government is working in total collaboration with state and local officials so we continue to get resources and aid deployed quickly.”

Read more HERE.  Lea más en español AQUÍ. 

Rick Scott Visits Sarasota County for Briefing on Hurricane Helene Response & Recovery Efforts, Surveys Damage

Senator Rick Scott visited Venice in Sarasota County and joined Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt Hoffman for an aerial tour of damage from Hurricane Helene. In addition to the aerial tour of damage in Sarasota County, Senator Scott received a briefing from Sheriff Hoffman and local emergency management officials regarding response and recovery efforts. Senator Scott has been in constant contact with federal officials, local leaders, law enforcement and emergency management officials in communities throughout the state that are impacted by Hurricane Helene to ensure they have the needed resources as they respond to the storm and help Floridians recover. Senator Scott is urging those in need of assistance with a federal agency, like the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Small Business Administration (SBA), or any other federal issue while recovering from Hurricane Helene, to contact his office HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Sarasota County has experienced a severe amount of storm surge that has impacted folks throughout the county, and some of the damage I saw during the aerial tour with Sheriff Kurt Hoffman today was devastating. Major flooding is still prevalent in the area as we wait for the water to recede, so please be sure to listen to your local officials and stay safe. My heart goes out to all the Floridians impacted by this storm, and I’m working every day with local, state, and federal partners like FEMA and the SBA, to coordinate resources and direct assistance to those in need. I’m grateful for the law enforcement, National Guard, emergency management officials and first responders for their work here on the ground.

“Floridians are resilient, and while so many families are facing unimaginable loss, I will stand alongside them every step of the way as they recover, and I will fight for every federal resource they need to do so. Please make sure to continue to follow the direction of local authorities and stay safe while the storm surge continues to recede, they work to get roads back open, power back on and families back home. I have nine offices throughout the state, and my team and I are standing by, ready to help. If you or someone you know needs assistance with a federal agency, like FEMA, the SBA, or any other federal issue while recovering from Hurricane Helene, contact us HERE. If there is one thing I know, it is that Floridians can get through anything when we come together, and the resolve of our state will ensure we rebuild and recover to be even stronger than before.”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ. 

Sen. Rick Scott: The United States Must Make Clear Iran Will Pay for Attacks on Israel

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement on Iran’s attacks on Israel.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Four years ago, Iran was weak, broke and powerless. Today, after years of appeasement from the Biden-Harris administration that has given the evil Iranian regime access to billions of dollars, we watch in horror as Iran terrorizes Israel with waves of missile attacks. The Biden-Harris regime has allowed this to happen – Iran took note as they abandoned Israel and ceded to the terrorists who seek to destroy the Jewish people and anyone who supports Israel. Israel must do what it takes to defend itself. The United States must stand strong with Israel, immediately give everything it needs to respond to and end the terror of the Ayatollah and his evil regime, and be clear that Iran will pay dearly for these attacks.”

Read more HERE.  

Sen. Rick Scott Visits Charlotte County for Briefing on Hurricane Helene Response & Recovery Efforts, Surveys Damage

Senator Rick Scott visited Punta Gorda in Charlotte County to survey damage from Hurricane Helene and receive a briefing from Congressman Greg Steube, Sheriff Bill Prummell, Charlotte County Emergency Management Director Patrick Fuller, and other local emergency management officials regarding response and recovery efforts. Senator Scott has been in constant contact with federal officials, local leaders, law enforcement and emergency management officials in communities throughout the state that are impacted by Hurricane Helene to ensure they have the needed resources as they respond to the storm and help Floridians recover. Senator Scott is urging those in need of assistance with a federal agency, like the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Small Business Administration (SBA), or any other federal issue while recovering from Hurricane Helene, to contact his office HERE.

Today, Senator Scott also sent a letter to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell requesting that the agency coordinate closely with the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) on housing recovery. Thousands of Floridians are still without power, and many who evacuated their homes have sadly returned to inhabitable or destroyed homes. Read more HERE.

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ. 

Senator Rick Scott Joins Colleagues in Making Bipartisan Push for Quick Passage of Disaster Relief Legislation

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Thom Tillis, Ted Budd, Lindsey Graham, Tim Scott, Raphael Warnock, Jon Ossoff, Marco Rubio, Marsha Blackburn, Bill Hagerty, Mark Warner and Tim Kaine in sending a letter to Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray, and Senate Appropriations Vice Chair Susan Collins on the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and the urgent need to pass an appropriations package to support the millions of Americans affected by the storm.

Read more HERE

Sen. Rick Scott & Florida Colleagues Urge USDA to Approve Disaster Declaration Request, Issue Block Grants to Recover from Hurricane Helene

Senator Rick Scott led a bipartisan group of his Florida delegation colleagues in a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack supporting the State of Florida’s request to issue a Disaster Declaration for Florida’s counties that were impacted by Hurricane Helene. Additionally, Senator Scott and his colleagues are urging the secretary to make assistance available immediately in the form of state block grants to expedite support for Florida’s farmers and agricultural producers as they recover from the destructive impacts of the storm. Joining Senator Scott on the letter are Senator Marco Rubio and Representatives Michael Waltz, Cory Mills, Matt Gaetz, Bill Posey, Kathy Castor, Kat Cammack, Neal Dunn, Mario Diaz-Balart, Scott Franklin, Maxwell Frost, Darren Soto, John Rutherford and Greg Steube.

Read more HERE

Sen. Rick Scott Shares Hurricane Helene Resource Guide for Floridians

Senator Rick Scott shared the below resources available to Floridians as they work to recover from Hurricane Helene. Over the past week, Senator Scott has visited 11 Florida counties as they prepared for, responded to and recovered from Hurricane Helene. Senator Scott has been in constant contact with state and local leaders, law enforcementmilitary base leaders, emergency management officials and energy companies in communities throughout the state that are impacted by Hurricane Helene to ensure they have the needed resources as they respond to the storm and help Floridians recover. Senator Scott has also spoken and written to federal officials, including FEMA Region 4 Administrator Robert Samaan, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, DHS Secretary MayorkasSmall Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Isabel Guzman and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Florida is incredibly resilient, we’ve recovered from devastating storms before and we will do it again. But communities recovering from Hurricane Helene aren’t in this alone – it’s all hands on deck. Local, state and federal partners must all come together to and work to support each other to get families back on their feet. My job as Florida’s U.S. Senator is to stand alongside them in their recovery, and I am fighting every day to ensure FEMA, the SBA, and the entire federal government shows up and does their part. As soon as FEMA, the SBA and communities assess damage and what they need for recovery, I’ve called on Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to immediately reconvene the Senate to pass a clean supplemental disaster funding bill and other disaster relief legislation, like my Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act, to ensure the full recovery of families in all impacted communities. I’ve also called on FEMA Administrator Criswell to work in concert with the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) to address emergency housing needs and USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to make assistance available immediately through state block grants to our farmers and agriculture industry.

“I have nine offices in Florida, and an office in Washington, and while I fight on the federal level to deliver resources to the state, my team and I are standing by, ready to help any Floridian needing assistance with a federal agency, like FEMA, the SBA, or any other federal issue while recovering from Hurricane Helene. I urge Florida families and businesses to contact us HERE or visit one of our Mobile Office Hours over the coming days so we may continue to coordinate resources and ensure a full recovery for everyone in our state impacted by this monstrous storm.”

Read more HERE.

Senate Unanimously Passes Sen. Rick Scott’s Bill to Bolster Security for Presidential and Vice Presidential Nominees Following Trump Assassination Attempts

In the wake of a second assassination attempt in just 65 days on President Donald Trump, Senator Rick Scott’s Enhanced Presidential Security Act, which was led by Representatives Mike Lawler and Ritchie Torres in the House of Representatives, has unanimously passed the Senate after passing with a bipartisan and unanimous 405-0 vote in the House. This bill will mandate that the USSS apply the same standards for determining the number of agents required to protect presidential and vice presidential nominees that it affords to sitting presidents and vice presidents. The Enhanced Presidential Security Act now heads to President Joe Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Over the course of just 65 days, two deranged individuals have tried to kill President Donald Trump, and one was able to shoot him in the head. It is unthinkable that this could happen in America today, and it demands the immediate action of Congress. Today, I am proud to have the full support of the Senate to pass the Enhanced Presidential Security Act, which mandates that the USSS apply the same standards for determining the number of agents required to protect presidential and vice presidential nominees that it affords to sitting presidents and vice presidents. President Trump has great officers and agents working around the clock to keep him safe, but it’s clear that the vile rhetoric toward President Trump has made him a target and more resources are required to ensure the safety of him and his family. I am grateful to my colleagues for passing this bill that will support the protection of President Trump and all future presidential nominees.”

Read more HERE

Sen. Rick Scott’s Bill to Bolster Security for Presidential and VP Nominees Following Trump Assassination Attempts Becomes Law

In the wake of a second assassination attempt in just 65 days on President Donald Trump, Senator Rick Scott’s Enhanced Presidential Security Act, which was led by Representatives Mike Lawler and Ritchie Torres in the House of Representatives, was signed into law this week by President Joe Biden and will take immediate effect. In a show of bipartisanship and overwhelming support, the bill unanimously passed the Senate after passing a 405-0 vote in the House. This bill will mandate that the U.S. Secret Service (USSS) apply the same standards for determining the number of agents required to protect presidential and vice presidential nominees that it affords to sitting presidents and vice presidents, and that the protection of nominees is prioritized over that of foreign dignitaries.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Over the course of just 65 days, two deranged individuals have tried to kill President Donald Trump, and one was able to shoot him in the head. It is unthinkable that this could happen in America today, and it demands the immediate action of Congress. I am proud to have the Enhanced Presidential Security Act signed into law, which mandates that the USSS apply the same standards for determining the number of agents required to protect presidential and vice presidential nominees that it affords to sitting presidents and vice presidents. President Trump has great officers and agents working around the clock to keep him safe, but it’s clear that the vile rhetoric toward President Trump has made him a target, and more resources are required to ensure the safety of him and his family.”

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott’s Bill Increasing Government Efficiency Becomes Law

Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after his legislation, the GAO Database Modernization Act, was signed into law. The GAO Database Modernization Act will require all federal agencies to submit a report on the rules that are revoked, suspended, replaced, amended or made ineffective to the Comptroller General of the United States.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I am incredibly proud to see my GAO Database Modernization Act, which will increase government efficiency, become law. It is no secret that government could be more efficient—and the inefficiency that has become the norm in Washington is a big problem that hurts Floridians and Americans all over our country. This bill becoming law marks another win in our fight to make Washington work for Florida families who expect their government to work every day on their behalf. I will keep fighting in Washington to make sure that the best interests of Florida families come first.”

Read more HERE. 

Sen. Rick Scott: 251,000 Full-Time Jobs Lost in Last 30 Days According to Biden-Harris Jobs Report

Following the release of the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ September jobs report showing the unemployment rate at 4.1%, up from 3.8% in September 2023, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement. The September report shows that month over month, multiple job holders increased by 412,000 and part-time work has increased by nearly one million jobs over the month. Meanwhile, full-time jobs are down 251,000. That is a scary reality for many Americans and points to an unstable job market. Senator Scott also released a weekly update on his actions to address America’s debt crisis, rising inflation and failing economy caused by the Biden-Harris administration’s reckless and radical agenda.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The Biden-Harris administration and its friends in the press want you to only see the top-line jobs number – but that doesn’t tell the whole story. Over the year, and since last month, full-time jobs are down and more people are having to take on multiple jobs and part-time jobs to get by. But these aren’t just figures in a report. When I travel around Florida and talk to families, I hear heartbreaking stories about parents having to take on multiple jobs, folks losing their jobs, and having to go without just to scrape by. All of this is happening because of the Biden-Harris administration’s terrible handling of the economy. We have 100 million adults in this country who aren’t working. Small businesses are being forced to shut down thanks to Harris Price Hikes and now the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene will only make these challenges even more painful. Growing up in public housing, I watched my parents work hard but still struggle to put food on the table. My mother worked multiple jobs just to make ends meet—and a lot of times, we went without. I remember that struggle and that’s why I won’t stop fighting like hell every day to fix the havoc the Biden-Harris administration has brought on folks’ lives and bring fiscal sanity back to Washington so the American economy works for hardworking Floridians again.”

Read more HERE.  Lea más en español AQUÍ. 

Sen. Rick Scott Honored with Americans for Prosperity “Pioneers for Prosperity” Award

Senator Rick Scott was honored by Americans for Prosperity – Florida (AFP – FL) with their “Pioneers for Prosperity” award. According to AFP, the award honors distinguished lawmakers who were policy champions during the 118th Congress. These leaders are on the frontlines in Congress advancing principles and policies that drive the conservative movement, while proactively opposing harmful ideas that grow the size of government and take money out of taxpayers’ paychecks. The “Pioneers for Prosperity” stood firm against ill-advised legislation that would have deepened the hardships felt by working families and worked closely with AFP in Washington as well as with grassroots communities in their home states. Representatives Byron Donalds and Laurel Lee were also honored.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I’m proud to be recognized by Americans for Prosperity, a great organization that advocates for the success of our nation’s families and businesses. For too long, families have seen their tax dollars wasted as they struggle to make ends meet under the Biden-Harris administration’s big government, big spending and inflation-fueling policies. I’m fighting every day to keep the American dream alive by bringing fiscal sanity and common sense back to Washington so it truly works for the American people.” 

Read more HERE. 

 

The Hill: Rick Scott calls for Senate to reconvene to consider Helene disaster aid

Fox News: ‘Immediately reconvene’: Scott urges Schumer to recall Senate amid Helene’s devastation 

ABC News: Senate passes bill over equal Secret Service protection for major party candidates 

The New York Post: Senate unanimously passes bill enhancing Secret Service protection for presidential, vice presidential nominees 

   ABC 7: Senator Rick Scott gets aerial view of Hurricane Helene damage 

NBC News: Florida Sen. Rick Scott says storm surge isn’t survivable 

Fox 4 News: “Water is what’s killing us”: Senator Scott urges coastal safety during Fort Myers Beach visit 

Florida’s Voice: Sen. Scott surveys Helene damage, thanks first responders and emergency management officials

WINK News: Sen. Rick Scott visits Fort Myers Beach in the wake of Helene

Tampa Free Press: Senator Rick Scott Urges FEMA To Coordinate Closely With Florida On Housing Recovery After Hurricane Helene 

Tampa Free Press: Florida Senators Rubio And Scott Intro Bill To Combat Antisemitism On College Campuses 

Florida Daily: Senate Passes Rick Scott’s Bill to Bolster Security for Presidential Nominees 

Florida Politics: Rick Scott leads 15-lawmaker call for USDA to declare disaster, issue block grants for post-Helene recovery 

The Floridian: Rubio, Scott, Florida Representatives Call for Emergency Block Grant Assistance Following Helene 

The Floridian: Rubio, Scott Support Florida’s Disaster Declaration in Letter to Biden

The Floridian: Scott Secret Service Bill Passes Congress, Could Expand Trump’s Protection if Signed by Biden

SW Florida Daily News: Sen. Scott Inspects Devastating Storm Surge Impact in Charlotte County 

WFLA: Rick Scott tours Helene damage on Anna Maria Island 

Cape Coral Breeze: Sen. Scott visits Fort Myers Beach

West Orlando News: Senators Rick Scott & Marco Rubio Support Florida’s Request for Major Disaster Declaration 

Senator Scott in Sarasota County

Senator Rick Scott visited Venice in Sarasota County and joined Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt Hoffman for an aerial tour of damage from Hurricane Helene. In addition to the aerial tour of damage in Sarasota County, Senator Scott received a briefing from Sheriff Hoffman and local emergency management officials regarding response and recovery efforts.

Senator Scott in Charlotte County

Senator Rick Scott also visited Punta Gorda in Charlotte County to survey damage from Hurricane Helene and receive a briefing from Congressman Greg Steube, Sheriff Bill Prummell, Charlotte County Emergency Management Director Patrick Fuller, and other local emergency management officials regarding response and recovery efforts.

Senator Scott in Taylor County

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Additionally, Senator Scott met with Sheriff Wayne Padgett in Taylor County to see the damage Hurricane Helene caused for the marina, local businesses and folks living there. 

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