A mesage from Rep. Matt Gaetz …………

Representative Matt Gaetz

U.S. Representative for the First District of Florida
1721 Longworth House Office Building | Washington, DC 20515
(202) 225-4136

Hello, Friends —

This week, Congress worked quickly to address the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), a case of which was recently confirmed in Northwest Florida.

Congress voted to authorize $8.3 billion to address the challenges of this outbreak, which passed with near-unanimous support, and which has already been signed into law by President Trump. This money will go to the Department of Health and Human Services to purchase medical supplies, expedite the research and development of cures, and fund the agencies which are working round-the-clock to keep Americans safe and healthy.

It’s good to see that even in polarized times, Congress can work swiftly and with bipartisanship to address the public health concern facing our nation.

For more information on coronavirus, including frequently asked questions, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s coronavirus page here.

AROUND THE DISTRICT

NAS PENSACOLA SHOOTING REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY

It has been 91 days since the horrific shooting at NAS Pensacola. Since then, we have mourned, cherished the memories of our fallen loved ones, and taken proactive steps to ensure that Northwest Florida is never subject to such violence again. No one who chooses to serve their country abroad should ever feel in danger at home.

We have not and will never let this attack tear us apart. On Saturday, March 14, at 11 am, the Pensacola Navy League is hosting a remembrance ceremony of the NAS Pensacola Shooting at the Veterans Memorial in downtown Pensacola.

For More:

Remembrance ceremony aims to offer closure, honor victims of NAS Pensacola shooting

VISIT TO WALTER REED MEDICAL CENTER

This week, I had the great privilege of visiting Walter Reed Military Medical Center, where I met with some of our brave 7th Group warriors who were injured in Afghanistan. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to speak with these brave soldiers and their families.

As these heroes recover, the staff of Walter Reed has given them the finest care available. These men and their families are an inspiration to all Americans. Our military families are the strongest people in our country — they endure sacrifices that many of us will never have to deal with. God bless these heroes and their families.

FINDING COMMON GROUND ON FAA REGULATIONS

During Open Gaetz Day, a concern was raised about the impact of new FAA regulations on model aviation. This week, members of my district staff conducted a follow-up meeting to learn more. Thank you to the Eglin Aero Modellers for your informative meeting!

CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE FROM GOVERNOR DESANTIS

This week, a case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Northwest Florida (Santa Rosa County). The individual had severe underlying health conditions, and had been travelling internationally.

The safety of the citizens of Northwest Florida is my highest priority. Governor DeSantis has taken decisive action since the emergence of the virus, alerting the public and working closely with local, state, and federal leaders to address this disease.

Our response to this case will be a testament to our community’s strength, and I have no doubt that we will come together in the face of this new challenge. With the support of the Congress, the President, and the Governor, Northwest Florida is in good hands. I applaud the Governor for his quick response and I look forward to working with him in preventing the spread of the virus.