Gus M. Bilirakis
Representative for Florida · Republican · United States
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding. I rise today in strong support of the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act, bipartisan legislation that will save lives by ensuring continued access to stem cell, bone marrow, and cord blood transplants for patients across our Nation.”
“I am grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for working together to advance this important piece of legislation. Mr. Speaker, Representative Smith of New Jersey has done an outstanding job over the years. He has done a great job leading this particular bill. He works on bills, Mr.”
“For far too long, medically retired servicemembers wounded in combat have been forced to forfeit a portion of the retirement pay they earned simply because they also receive VA disability compensation, and that is wrong. That is the so-called wounded veteran tax, and it is fundamentally unjust.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his leadership and thank him for this great package that will support our veterans. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Take Care of America's Veterans Act. First and foremost, this legislation delivers long-overdue justice by including key provisions of my Major Richard Star Act.”
“I appreciate it so very much, and I thank the chairman for his leadership. It enhances mental health services, expands care in rural communities, improves transition assistance for servicemembers entering civilian life, and modernizes VA facilities to better serve future generations. The SPEAKER pro tempore.”
“Most importantly, this bill honors the legacy of Major Richard Star, who fought tirelessly to correct this injustice before his passing. His determination has brought us to this moment, and today, we have the opportunity to continue that fight on behalf of thousands of deserving veterans.”
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“Hourly workers, shift workers, and families relying on public transit are hit hardest by sudden schedule changes and reduced evening visibility. More evening daylight reduces the need for artificial lighting and heating in the early evening hours, which can help lower household energy use and utility bills. For Louisiana families, many of whom work in agriculture, fishing, and outdoor industries tied to the Gulf Coast, permanent daylight saving time would mean more usable evening daylight for safer work conditions, recreation, and valuable time with their families. The American Farm Bureau Federation supports the Sunshine Protection Act because it would provide consistency and reduce disruptions for farmers and ranchers. A stable, year-round time system makes it easier to plan work, transportation, and market schedules.”
“Twice a year, Americans lose sleep, disrupt their routines, and pay the price for a practice that has outlived its original purpose. H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act, ends that twice-yearly clock change and makes daylight saving time permanent year round. Research shows that eliminating the biannual switch reduces the spike in heart attacks, strokes, and workplace accidents that follow the spring-forward transition. Ending the clock change also means fewer disruptions to sleep patterns tied to that adjustment period. {time} 1620 On the safety side, permanent evening daylight means more daylight during peak commuting and after-school hours, leading to fewer pedestrian and traffic fatalities in the evening. As with many other policies, the impacts are more dramatic for our less affluent neighbors.”
“The number is 20 percent of children who are obese. They need to be out more. This will make a difference for them. There are also significant health benefits associated with DST that would prevent over 200,000 cases of stroke per year. It would make a big difference, as well, for nearly 2 million people in terms of obesity. Importantly, this bill allows States to opt out in favor of standard time if that is important to them. Nineteen States have passed the deadline for this. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Carter), another member of our committee. Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act.”
“Let me just tell you, as someone who has been in business for 30 years, this is gigantic, especially for the small business person. That additional hour a day, at least in Florida but across the country, makes a big difference in terms of doing business. Ideally, it helps not just small businesses, but small businesses create most of the jobs in Florida, as well. It is key to both. Polling shows that two-thirds of Americans want to unlock the clock. My bill is simply a solution to make daylight saving time permanent. Allowing an extra hour of sunlight in the evening gives families more time for outside sports, activities, and school. It stimulates small business and, as I said, job creation; retail tourism; and provides more time for youth sports and outside recreation. Let me just tell you: You see a lot of kids today.”
“Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Buchanan), the original sponsor of the bill here in the House of Representatives and my good friend. I thank the gentleman for his persistency all these years, along with the former Senator Rubio, who is now our Secretary of State. This has always been a priority for both of them. Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time permanent and finally end the biannual clock switch. Twice a year, Americans are forced to change their clocks. These changes disrupt their schedule for no good reason. The outdated practice is frustrating for families, workers, schools, and small businesses across the country.”
“We saw that people are sick of the changing of the clocks. Also, the local farmer doesn't need Big Government to tell them what time to wake up in the morning. They know what time they [[Page H4448]] want to wake up, no matter what, so that change isn't going to affect them at all. Then I encourage schools and educational institutions around the Nation, to adjust school start times based upon what they think is best to keep kids safe. At the end of the day, we have talked about how it is good for business, good for recreation, and good to help out with making sure that we don't have this public health issue every time we are changing the clocks back and forth. It is finally time to bring sunshine across the Nation, and I urge my colleagues to support this amazing Sunshine Protection Act. Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr.”
“I will say that I never got a chance to pass that bill out of the Florida Legislature, although I know some of my colleagues who are here today ended up doing it after I was gone. It is one of the burdens of being a Democrat in a Republican-dominated legislature. Mr. Speaker, here we are many years later, 13 years later, and an idea that I got to write many years ago now is being led by great leaders like Vern Buchanan--I am a proud cosponsor of this--and Gus Bilirakis, a great Floridians whom I enjoy working with, and, of course, Frank Pallone, our ranking member. There is a reason this bill was so popular for so long. Small businesses like it because people, after work, go out to businesses and get to have fun. Beach communities like it. With that one extra hour of sunshine, kids can go out and play after school.”
“In the State House, you can only file a certain number of bills, but once we got to the State senate, I really got jelling on coming up with ideas that would help our State. Up until that point, every idea on trying to stop the clock change was going to standard time. No one likes standard time. It is darkness in the wintertime, and so we, as The Sunshine State--a lot of Floridians here--and coastal New Jerseyans and others here from Louisiana, we like the sunshine. It made far more sense to keep daylight saving time, which is the 8 months out of the year that we have light in the afternoons and evenings. I filed that bill without a press release back in 2013. It became statewide news. For 4 years straight, every time this bill came up, it was the most viewed bill in the Florida Senate for 4 years straight.”
“Let's provide some certainty and consistency and a little more sunshine at the end of the day. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act. I thank my friend and colleague, Congressman Vern Buchanan, for his efforts in advancing this and making this a real change that every American can get behind. Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Soto), a member of our committee. Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New Jersey for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I want to start with a little history lesson. Back in 2013, this was my bill. I wrote this bill. I thought it was a pretty good name, the Sunshine Protection Act, back in the day. It was for good reason. I had gotten to the State senate.”
“The research has suggested that eliminating the time changes improves public safety. As the wife of a first responder, I very much appreciate that. It reduces disruptions to sleep and could even provide energy savings. This bill doesn't create any new Federal bureaucracies. It doesn't grow the size of government, and it doesn't impose costly new regulations. Instead, it simplifies life. It will be one less thing for the American people to worry about. Sometimes the best thing in Congress that we can do is remove unnecessary burdens that no longer serve its purposes. That is exactly what we are doing here today. Mr. Speaker, this is a practical, bipartisan solution whose time, pun intended, has come. Let's stop asking Americans to reset their clocks every March and November.”
“This legislation does exactly what Americans have been asking Congress to do not just for years but decades: End outdated practices of changing our clocks twice a year by making daylight saving time permanent. It also respects the choices of States that have already opted out of daylight saving time under current law. Let's be honest. There are very few things that everyone agrees on these days, but whether you are a parent, like me, trying to get your kids to sleep or get your kids out the door for school, or you are a small business owner, a farmer, a first responder, or someone who just wants one less thing to worry about, changing the clocks twice a year is a hassle that most Americans are ready to leave behind. We all have heard the studies here in the debate today about the real benefits to ending these biannual clock changes.”
“That extra hour means more Little League games, more evenings at local parks, more dinners at outdoor patios and restaurants, more customers walking through the doors of all of our mom-and-pop businesses, and more time for families to simply enjoy being together. Again, as a Floridian, it is hot in the middle of the day in the summer. It gets nice in Florida in the afternoons and evenings. It would be nice for us to enjoy a little bit more time. I know I am making this about Florida, but I am just being honest: #MakeAmericaFlorida. For a State like Florida that welcomes millions of visitors every single year, more daylight in the evening means more opportunities.”
“Speaker, it was always a nuisance, but as a new mom with an infant child getting the baby on a sleep schedule--and all the moms and dads of infants know what I am talking about. You get your schedule going, and then you have to spring forward or fall back, and then you start cussing the dang time changes. {time} 1610 This is personal at this point. It is time we stop changing the clocks and we start using some common sense. Mr. Speaker, there are lots of Floridians here in the Chamber supporting this bill because, as Floridians--we are The Sunshine State--we value sunshine. It is critical that we do this because we all know very closely and firsthand that our communities thrive when our families have more daylight after work and after school.”
“Cammack), my good friend and fellow Florida Gator. Mrs. CAMMACK. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise in strong support for H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act, introduced by my friend and fellow Floridian, Congressman Vern Buchanan. This is one of those issues that has been highlighted here today that brings us together as Americans, regardless of party, no matter where you are. Everyone always asks the same question every year because we are all equally annoyed: Why in the heck are we still changing our clocks? For decades, we have accepted this ritual of springing forward and falling back, even though it disrupts routines, throws off our sleep, and creates unnecessary frustration for families across the country. I will say, Mr.”
“For States that have already chosen to follow permanent standard time due to the unique needs of their climate or location--and that includes Arizona and Hawaii--under this bill, they can continue to do so. Other States are allowed under the legislation to adopt permanent standard time prior to the bill's enactment. Ultimately, the benefits of stopping the biannual changing of the clocks are numerous and clear. Moving to permanent daylight saving time will bring much-needed evening sunlight to communities across the United States. It is time we finally end the process of springing forward and falling back. I urge my colleagues to support the Sunshine Protection Act, and I reserve the balance of my time, Mr. Speaker. Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Florida (Mrs.”
“Meanwhile, Americans are facing an affordability crisis, forcing families to [[Page H4447]] make difficult tradeoffs, including forgoing summer travel. For communities like mine that rely on tourism for our local economies, an extra hour of daylight can make all the difference. Extra daylight also helps to deter crime. Researchers at the Brookings Institution found that criminal incidents decreased during an hour of sunlight added to the evening following the springtime change. Making that extra sunlight permanent will help keep our communities safer. All of these benefits clearly explain why 19 States have already voted to adopt permanent daylight saving time if Federal law changed because, right now, it doesn't allow them to do that. These States recognize the benefits, and it is time that Congress allows them to reap those benefits.”
“Extra sunlight means more time at the beach, more time eating out at restaurants, and more time doing outdoor leisure activities. In my district along the Jersey Shore, tourists can enjoy beautiful coastal areas with serene beaches, embark on fishing ventures along the Atlantic Coast, enjoy a nice outdoor concert from iconic musicians in places like Asbury Park, and so much more. Last year alone, New Jersey welcomed more than 120 million visitors to our State, and they contributed more than $50 billion to our State's economy. Our tourism industry needs the boost today more than ever. The Trump administration's policies, including high visa fees and the detention and harassment of legal tourists, have discouraged travelers from visiting our country because they simply do not feel welcome.”
“Disturbingly, studies have shown that the increase in stroke rates after the time change is even higher for some of our most vulnerable populations. For example, cancer patients' stroke rates increase by 25 percent, and people over the age of 65 are 20 percent more likely to have a stroke in the days following the time change. The Sunshine Protection Act would implement permanent daylight saving time and stop the twice-a-year change that disrupts our sleep and our health. Taking this action will increase the sunshine hours in the evening, allowing many Americans to leave work for more sunlight in the winter months, not darkness. The increased evening sunlight will also provide a needed boost to our tourism industry.”
“Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Sunshine Protection Act. This act addresses an issue on which many Americans actually agree, and that is stopping the biannual process of changing our clocks. Only 12 percent of Americans prefer to switch their clocks twice a year. Far more Americans recognize that the practice is inconvenient and, frankly, disruptive. Stopping the twice-yearly time change benefits the health and well- being of all Americans. The time change inevitably disrupts sleep patterns and is especially disruptive to the sleep of young children and pets. Time change also is associated with an increase in the rate of heart attacks and strokes in the days immediately following the change.”
“Again, the ranking member of the full committee, Mr. Pallone, I know strongly supports this bill, and he will have time to say that. It is about recognizing, Mr. Speaker, that our laws should keep pace with the needs of the people who we represent. Today, we have an opportunity to take a meaningful step toward delivering something Americans have been asking for: consistency, convenience, and a better way to manage their time. The American people are long past ready to ditch the switch. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this critical piece of legislation and sending it over to the Senate, and I know the President will sign it. I know he is a strong backer, and I appreciate his support again. Finally, Congress needs to bring an end to the twice-yearly clock change. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. PALLONE. Mr.”
“In a State like Florida, my home State of Florida, where tourism is a cornerstone of our economy, having more predictable daylight hours is a practical improvement that benefits workers, businesses, and visitors alike. This legislation is also about listening to the American people. Year after year, Mr. Speaker, polls show strong support for ending the outdated clock change. Families do not want another disruption to their routines. Businesses do not want unnecessary uncertainty. Americans want a commonsense solution. That is exactly what this bill provides, and I have spoken to thousands of constituents on this particular bill, Mr. Speaker, and they agree. They want permanent daylight saving time. I am proud that this effort has received bipartisan support because this is not about politics. It is about practicality.”
“After years of study and discussion, it is clear that Americans value consistency and certainty. Establishing permanent daylight saving time would provide families with more usable daylight hours in the evening, giving people additional opportunities to spend time outdoors, support local businesses, participate in community activities, and enjoy the quality of life that makes our communities so special. Mr. Speaker, I will add this: This is great for our kids. I want, and I know most parents want, kids to be outdoors now more than ever. The physical activity means so very much. For small businesses, particularly those in tourism, hospitality, and recreation, as I said, additional evening daylight can help drive economic activity and create more opportunities to serve customers.”
“I know it is very important that we pass this bill. In Florida, Mr. Speaker, this issue is especially important. Our State is home to families, retirees, small businesses, and industries that depend on predictable schedules and the ability to make the most of every single day. Floridians have made it clear that they are ready to ditch the switch. Mr. Speaker, I thank the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, for his strong support of this bill. Changing the clocks twice a year creates unnecessary disruption. I know you agree, Mr. Speaker. It affects sleep patterns, impacts family routines, creates confusion for businesses, and requires everyone--from parents and students to employers and employees and even our pets--to adjust their schedules for no meaningful benefit.”
“Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Sunshine Protection Act. This important legislation will finally end the outdated practice of changing our clocks twice a year and establish permanent daylight saving time. For decades, Mr. Speaker, Americans have been asking a simple question: Why are we forcing families, businesses, and communities to adjust their schedules every spring and fall? The twice-yearly clock change is a relic of the past that no longer reflects the way Americans live, work, and conduct business in the 21st century. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Buchanan), the lead sponsor and my good friend, for working so hard on this legislation for quite a few years. It is finally coming to fruition.”
“The online version has been corrected to read: The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill shall be debatable for 1 hour equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce or their respective designees. The gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) and the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pallone) each will control 30 minutes. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis). ========================= END NOTE ========================= General Leave Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and insert extraneous material on H.R. 139. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida? There was no objection. {time} 1600 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr.”
“260a),'' and inserting ``Except as provided in subsection (b),''. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill shall be debatable for 1 hour equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce or their respective designees. The gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis) and the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Pallone) each will control 30 minutes. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis). =========================== NOTE =========================== On July 14, 2026, page H4446, in the first column, the following appeared: The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. BILIRAKIS) and the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. PALLONE) each will control 20 minutes. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida.”
“260a(a)), as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of the Sunshine Protection Act of 2025, pursuant to such section, or an area of a State that has exempted such area from such provisions pursuant to such section, shall be, as such State considers appropriate-- ``(1) the standard time for such State or area, as the case may be, pursuant to subsection (a) of this section; or ``(2) the standard time for such State or area, as the case may be, pursuant to subsection (a) of this section as it was in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of the Sunshine Protection Act of 2025.''. (3) Conforming amendment.--Such section is further amended, in the second sentence of subsection (a), by striking ``Except as provided in section 3(a) of the Uniform Time Act of 1966 (15 U.S.C.”
“(2) State exemption.--Such section is further amended by-- (A) redesignating subsection (b) as subsection (c); and (B) inserting after subsection (a) the following: ``(b) Standard Time for Certain States and Areas.--The standard time for a State that has exempted itself from the provisions of section 3(a) of the Uniform Time Act of 1966 (15 U.S.C.”
“261), is amended-- (A) by striking ``4 hours'' and inserting ``3 hours''; (B) by striking ``5 hours'' and inserting ``4 hours''; (C) by striking ``6 hours'' and inserting ``5 hours''; (D) by striking ``7 hours'' and inserting ``6 hours''; (E) by striking ``8 hours'' and inserting ``by 7 hours''; (F) by striking ``9 hours'' and inserting ``8 hours''; [[Page H4446]] (G) by striking ``10 hours;'' and inserting ``9 hours;''; (H) by striking ``11 hours'' and inserting ``10 hours''; and (I) by striking ``10 hours.'' and inserting ``11 hours.''.”
“This Act may be cited as the ``Sunshine Protection Act of 2025''. SEC. 2. MAKING DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME PERMANENT. (a) Repeal of Temporary Period for Daylight Savings Time.-- Section 3 of the Uniform Time Act of 1966 (15 U.S.C. 260a) is hereby repealed. (b) Advancement of Standard Time.-- (1) In general.--The second sentence of subsection (a) of section 1 of the Act of March 19, 1918 (commonly known as the ``Calder Act'') (15 U.S.C.”
“Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 139) to make daylight savings time permanent, and for other purposes. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows: The online version has been corrected to read: Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to House Resolution 1423, I call up the bill (H.R. 139) to make daylight savings time permanent, and for other purposes, and ask for its immediate consideration. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to House Resolution 1423, the bill is considered read. The text of the bill is as follows: ========================= END NOTE ========================= H.R. 139 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4445-H4451] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] SUNSHINE PROTECTION ACT OF 2025 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to House Resolution 1423, I call up the bill (H.R. 139) to make daylight savings time permanent, and for other purposes, and ask for its immediate consideration. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to House Resolution 1423, the bill is considered read. The text of the bill is as follows: =========================== NOTE =========================== On July 14, 2026, page H4445, in the third column, the following appeared: Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr.”
“The team really cares, and each member is deeply invested in the kids' long-term success. It is clear Daniel Flores has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E351] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING DANIEL FLORES ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, April 28, 2025 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Daniel Flores has made to our community through his work with New Beginnings Youth Shelter, which serves homeless kids aged 10-17 who are between foster homes; abandoned, or homeless. The whole team jumps in to take care of the kids who have no one else looking out for them. They teach kids structure, respect, understanding and so much more in a loving environment.”
“Over the past year alone, Cindy has devoted over 100 volunteer hours to BMS, significantly impacting our programs and outreach efforts. Her willingness to invest her time and talents into the organization speaks volumes about her love for Brooksville and her desire to see it thrive. She embodies the spirit of volunteerism, demonstrating a deep sense of responsibility and pride in her work. Her dedication, hard work, and commitment to BMS have made an undeniable difference in our community, and we are deeply grateful for her service. It is clear Cindy Gandy Mahon has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility. ____________________”
“She actively promotes Brooksville's historic cham and economic growth by working with local businesses, encouraging participation, and fostering a sense of unity among merchants and residents. Her efforts to support small businesses align perfectly with BMS's mission to strengthen the local economy while preserving the character of our town. Cindy's volunteerism goes above and beyond expectations. She does not hesitate to take an extra responsibilites, often stepping up when additional help is needed. Whether it is arriving early to set up for an event, staying late to clean up, or brainstorming creative ideas to enhance the visitor experience, Cindy's selfless dedication is truly inspiring. She brings positivity, teamwork, and a solutions-oriented approach to every task setting an exemplary standard for other volunteers.”
“One of Cindy's most significant contributions has been her work in supporting Brooksville Main Street's special events, including Beautify Brooksville. Her hands-on involvement in coordinating logistics and managing on-site operations has been crucial in making this event successful. She dedicates long hours before, during, and after this and other events, ensuring everything runs smoothly and all volunteers and attendees have a positive experience. Cindy's leadership and problem-solving skills shine in high-pressure situations, making her a trusted and reliable member of the team. Beyond event coordination, Cindy has also played a key role in furthering the goals of BMS by assisting with community engagement initiatives.”
“Her tireless dedication to BMS's mission and objectives has made a lasting impact, and her unwavering support has been instrumental in the success of numerous projects and events. Cindy has been an invaluable volunteer, consistently contributing countless hours to the betterment of Brooksville. She has been actively involved in multiple committees such as Beautify Brooksville, Promotions, Design as well as Beautify Brooksville, Tangerine Festival, the City's Founder's Week and Christmas on Main, bringing her energy, expertise, and creativity to every initiative. Whether planning events, setting up for activities, assisting with vendor coordination, or welcoming guests with a warm smile, Cindy is always at the forefront, ensuring that every detail is executed flawlessly.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E349-E350] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING CINDY MAHON ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, April 28, 2025 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that [[Page E350]] Cindy Gandy Mahon has made to our community as a volunteer with Brooksville Main Street (BMS). Cindy has demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment, enthusiasm, and passion for the revitalization and growth of downtown Brooksville.”
“It is clear Charles Anderson has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility. ____________________”
“Charles built strong partnerships with local, state, and federal leaders, ensuring UWPC played a key role in disaster response and community resilience efforts, including managing FEMA allocations and emergency shelter coordination. Beyond programmatic and financial accomplishments, Charles leaves a cultural legacy of collaboration, compassion, and forward-thinking leadership. He empowered staff and volunteers to innovate and excel, instilled a strong sense of mission throughout the organization, and strengthened the relationship between UWPC and its many partner agencies. Charles retired 2 months ago to spend more time with his family, and he leaves behind a stronger, more resilient UWPC prepared to meet future challenges.”
“Charles also pioneered the Fighting Human Trafficking (FHT) Program, positioning UWPC as one of only four United Way organizations globally offering direct services to human trafficking survivors. This program is the only one in Florida with state funding to provide emergency hotel stays and housing for survivors of human trafficking state-wide. Through his strategic advocacy, he secured over $2 million in funding from the Florida Legislature and the Department of Justice, significantly amplifying the program's reach and capacity. Financial stewardship and ethical governance flourished under his leadership, with UWPC earning the highest 4-star rating from Charity Navigator for four consecutive years and maintaining a remarkably low 6.5 percent overhead.”
“Since assuming leadership in January 2019, Charles transformed UWPC into a more dynamic, responsive, and impactful organization, nearly doubling annual fundraising to $2.8 million by 2023 and expanding its focus from three to eight critical areas of community needs. Under Charles's visionary guidance, UWPC rose to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with swift aid innovative action. He launched Operation Feed Pasco, which not only supported 19 local restaurants but also provided over 237,000 meals to individuals and families in need. The program mobilized $2.4 million and delivered vital services to shelters, food ministries, and elder care centers during one of the community's most vulnerable times.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E349] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING CHUCK ANDERSON ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, April 28, 2025 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Charles Anderson has made through his work with United Way of Pasco County. Charles W. Anderson, recently retired January 2025 as President & CEO of United Way of Pasco County (UWPC). He has made a profound and lasting impact on the organization and the community it serves.”
“She helps with ideas, calls, and follow-through with anything that needs to be done. She also spends time with the students in the ``Pop up Shop'' each Friday morning and provides extra supervision in the cafeteria at lunchtime. She also, recently re-vamped the School Events Parent Information Board which has all of our events and fundraisers on it for the families to see as they come onto campus. Cheryl asks daily what she can do to help and never stops until she exceeds expectations. It is clear Cheryl Wirt has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E348] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING CHERYL WIRT ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, April 28, 2025 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Cheryl Wirt has made to our community through her volunteer work at Veterans Elementary School. Cheryl comes to volunteer at the school almost every day. She has a big heart and a passion for helping students and staff. Cheryl is very involved with the community group that heads up all fundraising for the school.”
“The clinic would not run smoothly without her diligent efforts. It is clear Cheryl Dillow has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E347] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING CHERYL DILLOW ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, April 28, 2025 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Cheryl Dillow has made through her work with the CARES Senior Clinic. Cheryl is the check out clerk at the clinic. Speedy in her typing, proficient with patient checkout and efficient at scheduling imaging and Dermatology referrals. Cheryl is a vital part of the team. She is always available to assist the patients and co-workers whenever needed.”
“Charlie is a key member of Habitat's work to build more affordable homeownership opportunities in West Pasco and Hernando Counties. He has assisted in organizing special build days with local elected officials and continues to make vital community connections to grow the affiliate's presence. Charlie has continued to build relationships with local government members and stresses the need for private and public partnerships. As Habitat's footprint continues to grow throughout its service area, Charlie Rogers will keep pushing the mission and the vision that everyone deserves a safe place to call home. It is clear Charles A. ``Charlie'' Rogers has made a profoundly positive impact on our cpmmunity, and I am grateful for his service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 70 (Monday, April 28, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E346] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING CHARLES A. ROGERS ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, April 28, 2025 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Charles A. ``Charlie'' Rogers has made through his work with Habitat Tampa Bay Gulfside. Charlie Rogers has been on Habitat's Board of Directors since July 2022. A lifelong advocate for education and health, Charlie has brought that experience and passion to Habitat as we continue to find solutions for affordable homeownership in Pinellas and West Pasco Counties.”