Franklin, Scott RSS Articles

Franklin, Babin, Mccormick Lead Oversight Letters Seeking Transparency And Objectivity From National Academies

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18), Chairman of the House Science, Space and Technology Subcommittee on Environment, joined House Science, Space and Technology Committee Chairman Brian Babin and Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight Chairman Rich McCormick in leading two oversight letters to Dr. Marcia McNutt, President of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM), seeking answers regarding transparency, conflicts of interest, committee balance, and the integrity of taxpayer-supported scientific advisory work.

The first letter requests records and information regarding NASEM’s fast-tracked report on greenhouse gas emissions, including whether private funding, internal policies, and committee composition influenced findings presented to federal policymakers. The second letter raises concerns about the NASEM Committee on Attribution of Extreme Weather and Climate Events and Their Impacts, including whether committee members’ outside affiliations may create conflicts of interest or undermine public confidence in the objectivity of its work.

As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Environment, Franklin has prioritized oversight of how federal agencies use scientific analysis, environmental modeling, and risk assessments to make decisions affecting taxpayers, energy policy, disaster preparedness, and economic growth.

“Taxpayer-funded science should be rooted in facts, transparency, and the highest standards of integrity,” said Chairman Scott Franklin. “When federal agencies rely on findings developed by the National Academies and other advisory bodies to support costly regulations, Americans deserve to know those findings were developed objectively and without political bias or special-interest influence. These letters are about restoring accountability and ensuring science serves the public, not an agenda.”

The letters request documents and responses related to NASEM’s conflict-of-interest policies, committee member selection, funding sources, transparency practices, and safeguards to ensure a balanced range of viewpoints on issues with major public policy consequences.

Click here to read the greenhouse gas letter.
Click here to read the attribution science letter.

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Franklin, Amo Lead Bipartisan Bill To Improve Federal Risk Analysis And Protect Taxpayer Dollars

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18), Chairman of the House Science, Space and Technology Subcommittee on Environment, and Congressman Gabe Amo (RI-01), the subcommittee’s Ranking Member, today introduced the Advancing Consistent and Credible Use of Risk Assessment Tools and Evaluation (ACCURATE) Act. This bipartisan bill creates a federal commission to help ensure federal agencies use more consistent, credible, and transparent private-sector risk tools when spending taxpayer dollars. Congressman Max Miller (OH-07), who championed the bill in the previous Congress, is joining as an original cosponsor.

“Federal agencies are making significant decisions about disaster response, infrastructure, and insurance using private-sector risk tools, but too often there is no consistent standard for how those tools are evaluated,” said Chairman Scott Franklin. “The ACCURATE Act brings greater transparency and accountability to the process by establishing clear guidelines for how these tools are reviewed and used. This is about making sure federal decisions are based on sound, reliable data and taxpayer dollars are being spent wisely.”

“From Superstorm Sandy to this year’s Blizzard of ’26, Rhode Islanders are no strangers to the dangers of extreme weather,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “The ACCURATE Act ensures federal agencies rely on sound, reliable data to assess risk. Thanks to Chair Franklin, our commonsense, bipartisan bill brings together government and industry to better protect lives, property, and livelihoods.”

“Safeguarding taxpayer dollars is always a top priority,” said Congressman Max Miller. “I am proud to support this legislation to protect communities. Accurate forecasting and effective disaster response are vital for millions of Americans from all backgrounds, and it is critical to strengthen how the federal government assesses hazard risk tools. This bill marks important progress, ensuring wise use of tax dollars to address one of life’s most unpredictable forces: the weather.”

“The American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA) applauds Congressman Scott Franklin on the introduction of the Advancing Consistent and Credible Use of Risk Assessment Tools and Evaluation Act (ACCURATE Act),” said Sam Whitfield, American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA)’s Senior Vice President of Federal Government Relations. “This legislation would establish a commission to bring together public‑ and private‑sector experts to help strengthen the reliability, transparency, and consistency of hazard risk assessment tools used by federal agencies. Ensuring the reliability and accuracy of hazard risk data and models is vital to rural and urban communities, industries, and emergency responders nationwide who rely on these tools to help safeguard lives, properties, and critical infrastructure.”

“Accurate and reliable weather models and forecasts are vital to insures for determining the risk of severe weather and pricing coverage as accurately as possible,” said Jimi Grande, NAMIC Senior Vice President – Federal & Political Affairs. “NAMIC applauds Rep. Franklin for his leadership in introducing the Advancing Consistent and Credible Use of Risk Assessment Tools and Evaluation (ACCURATE) Act to enhance federal weather data. Protecting our homes and communities starts with understanding the risks we face, and as Americans encounter increasingly severe and unpredictable weather, the need for quality data has never been more apparent.”

“With severe weather events increasing in frequency and intensity, it is more important than ever to ensure the weather data and risk models communities, businesses, and government officials at all levels rely on is reliable and accurate,” said BuildStrong America Executive Director Natalie Enclade. “BuildStrong America applauds Representatives Scott Franklin (R-FL) and Gabe Amo (D-RI) for leading the charge on this timely and important issue.”

The ACCURATE Act directs the Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology to establish a Commission on Hazard Risk Assessment Tools to improve how the federal government evaluates hazard risk tools purchased from the private sector. The Commission will recommend standards, methodologies, and procurement best practices to make these tools more consistent, credible, and transparent. The Under Secretary will review those recommendations and determine whether to adopt them for federal use.

Specifically, the Commission will:

• Review the private-sector hazard risk assessment tools federal agencies use;
• Recommend standards for data inputs, model assumptions, and validation of model outputs;
• Develop best practices for evaluating and procuring those tools; and
• Report to Congress on federal use of these tools and the effectiveness of recommended standards.

This bill builds on the model of Florida’s Commission on Hurricane Loss Projection Methodology, which is nationally recognizedfor improving the accuracy and transparency of forecasting tools used in insurance and emergency planning. It demonstrates how similar standards can be applied at the national level.

Developed with input from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the legislation has also received support from the American Property and Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC), and BuildStrong America, reflecting broad industry recognition of the importance of establishing clear standards for how the federal government evaluates and uses hazard risk assessment tools purchased from the private sector.

Click here for the full bill text.

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Franklin Leads Florida Delegation Urging EPA Action To Support Citrus Industry

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18) led members of the Florida delegation in sending a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) urging timely, science-based review of emerging citrus rootstock technologies to combat citrus greening (HLB).

Florida’s citrus industry has faced steep declines due to HLB, compounded by recent hurricanes and freeze damage. Production has dropped by more than 90 percent from its peak, putting significant pressure on growers and limiting their ability to reinvest.

“Florida’s citrus industry has taken hit after hit, from greening to hurricanes to recent freeze damage, but growers are resilient and science is starting to move in the right direction,” said Congressman Scott Franklin. “Innovations like these rootstock technologies and other emerging tools are giving producers confidence that a solution to greening is finally here. Growers are ready to reinvest and replant, but they need EPA to complete its review and provide a clear path forward. Timely, predictable decisions will help keep momentum going, protect jobs and strengthen the future of this industry.”

“Thank you to Congressman Scott Franklin and Florida’s Congressional delegation for urging the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to approve emerging citrus rootstocks developed to bolster our nation’s fight against citrus greening disease,” said Matt Joyner, Executive Vice President and CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual. “Florida citrus growers have partnered with researchers for two decades to develop tools that combat citrus greening. With disease-tolerant rootstocks now available, we urge the EPA to enable their rapid deployment, enhancing disease tolerance, strengthening crop production and preserving Florida’s iconic citrus industry.”

“Florida’s citrus growers have endured decades of devastating losses from HLB, and the path forward depends on innovation,” said Jeb S. Smith, President, Florida Farm Bureau Federation. “Gene-edited rootstock technologies offer a promising, science-based solution to improve disease tolerance and restore confidence for growers looking to replant. We appreciate Congressman Franklin’s leadership and urge EPA to move forward with a timely review so these tools can get into the hands of producers who need them most.”

The letter highlights innovative rootstock technologies that improve HLB tolerance by targeting the plant’s existing biology. Growers are prepared to invest in more than 2.5 million new trees this year, but that depends on regulatory certainty and access to emerging tools.

Click here to read the full letter.

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Franklin Statement On DHS Funding Vote

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18) released the following statement after the House voted to advance a continuing resolution to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS):

“Tonight, the House voted to fund the entire Department of Homeland Security and support the men and women who protect our nation every day.

“The Senate’s proposal was inadequate. It left critical gaps, failed to support key personnel, and weakened core missions like border security, immigration enforcement and cybersecurity. It was not a serious path forward.

“Our approach is straightforward. Pay every DHS employee. Restore full operations. Ensure every mission, from securing the border to responding to disasters, has the resources it needs.

“As an appropriator, I will not accept funding national security halfway and defunding law enforcement. Partial security isn’t security at all.

“The House has done its job. Again. I urge the Senate to act and fully fund DHS.”

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Franklin, Amo Introduce Bipartisan Bill To Strengthen Ocean Monitoring And Improve Severe Weather Forecasting

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Scott Franklin (FL-18), Chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Environment Subcommittee, and Ranking Member Gabe Amo (RI-01) introduced the NOAA Global Ocean Monitoring and Observing (GOMO) Research Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen America’s ocean monitoring capabilities and improve forecasting for extreme weather events.

The bill establishes a research program within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to enhance ocean data collection, improve coordination, and leverage advanced technologies to better predict severe weather and protect lives and property.

“Reliable ocean monitoring is vital for Florida, where our safety and quality of life depend on accurate forecasting,” said Chairman Scott Franklin. “Through NOAA’s Global Ocean Monitoring and Observing program, we can harness cutting-edge technology to collect and analyze global ocean data. Advanced ocean monitoring and analysis are essential to improve preparation for extreme weather and ensure our nation is equipped with the best information to protect lives and property.”

“From growing the Blue Economy to protecting communities from climate change, understanding the ocean is key to Rhode Island’s future,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “The NOAA GOMO Research Act helps us deepen our understanding of the ocean and ensure we have the data to protect Rhode Island families from extreme weather and climate change. Science saves lives, and I will keep fighting so NOAA can continue its vital mission to protect our communities.”

The NOAA GOMO Research Act will:

Strengthen U.S. ocean observing and monitoring capabilities
Improve forecasting for hurricanes and other extreme weather events
Support research and development of advanced ocean technologies
Enhance coordination and accessibility of ocean data
Address critical gaps in ocean observation systems

This legislation builds on NOAA’s ongoing work to provide timely, accurate data that supports emergency preparedness, maritime safety, and coastal resilience.

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Franklin Statement Opposing War Powers Resolution On Iran

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

“For nearly five decades, the Iranian regime has sponsored terrorism, targeted American service members, threatened our allies, and openly called for the destruction of the United States and Israel. That reality has not changed.

“The War Powers resolution being considered by Congress sends a dangerous message in the middle of an ongoing operation. Forcing the United States to pull back in the face of Iranian aggression would signal weakness to Tehran, embolden the terrorist proxies it funds, and undermine the credibility of our deterrence across the region.

“Adversaries watch closely for signs of division or retreat in Washington. Passing this resolution would broadcast both. At a moment when Iran continues to destabilize the Middle East and pursue nuclear capability, Congress should be strengthening America’s resolve, not signaling hesitation.

“I oppose this misguided resolution. The United States must remain clear and unwavering: we will defend our forces, stand by our allies, and ensure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon.”

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Statement From Congressman Franklin On The Death Of CPT Cody A. Khork

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

"I join our entire community in mourning the loss of CPT Cody A. Khork of Winter Haven, who was killed while serving our nation during Operation Epic Fury. He and five other American service members lost their lives in the attack after answering the call to serve and making the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country.”

"As a former Naval Aviator, I understand the weight of that sacrifice and the courage it takes to wear the uniform. Our nation is grateful for CPT Khork’s service and his commitment to defending our freedoms. Please join me in lifting up the Khork family, along with the families of the other service members lost, and their friends and fellow soldiers in prayer during this difficult time. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten."

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Statement From Congressman Scott Franklin On U.S. And Israeli Strikes On Iran

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

“For nearly five decades, the intentions of the Iranian regime have been clear. Since seizing power in 1979, its leaders have openly declared ‘Death to America’ and ‘Death to Israel,’ funded terrorist operations across the globe, attacked and killed hundreds of our service members, destabilized the Middle East, and worked relentlessly to expand their influence through violence and intimidation.

“Throughout my career in the United States Navy, and now as a Member of Congress, I have witnessed firsthand the evil of Iran’s regime and its role in destabilizing the Middle East, with the ultimate aim of destroying Western Civilization either directly or through its jihadist proxies, including Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis.

“From its inception, the Iranian regime has systematically executed terror attacks to the fullest extent of its capabilities. As their military capabilities have increased, so have the scope and scale of their attacks. We have every reason to take them at their word that, if given the opportunity, they would wipe Israel off the map and then come for America. That is why the United States has always been clear that Iran can NEVER be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.

“Every American president since Ronald Reagan has made this point clear. Yet Iran has shown steadfast determination to advance its nuclear ambitions, despite the exhaustive diplomatic efforts of eight presidents. As President Trump stated so clearly in his message to the American people, ‘we can’t take it any longer.’ Nor should we.

“Our military is the most capable, disciplined, and lethal fighting force in the world. The professionalism, strength, and resolve of our service members are unmatched, and I have full confidence in their ability to execute any mission required to defend our nation. While there is certainly high risk in the operations we have witnessed today, the failure to act decisively when we have the chance is even more dangerous in the long run.

“It is important to underscore that our fight is not with the citizens of Iran. They have endured 47 years of oppression under a radical regime that denies them freedom, economic opportunity, and basic human rights. There can be no lasting peace in the region while the current regime remains in power, but we stand ready to support a future in which the Iranian people can live free from tyranny under leadership of their choosing.

“Peace through strength rings hollow without the resolve to use that strength when diplomacy fails. The enormous weight of President Trump’s decision to exercise that resolve cannot be overstated. May God grant him sound wisdom and judgment, safety for our fighting men and women, peace in our time, and His continued blessings for our great nation.”

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Franklin, Bishop Act to Strengthen Agricultural AI Research & Innovation

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Today, Reps. Scott Franklin (FL-18) and Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) reintroduced their Land Grant Research Prioritization Act, which would help give land grant universities dedicated access to existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grant funding to enhance artificial intelligence (AI), mechanization and other research.

“Labor shortages, inflation, supply chain disruption, invasive diseases and extreme weather have created significant challenges for American agricultural producers,” Rep. Franklin said. “AI and other important research into mechanization, invasive species and aquaculture are promising solutions to keep growers economically competitive. At a time when growers in Florida and around the country need support, our bipartisan Land Grant Research Prioritization Act is a timely fix to boost US-grown food production and keep growers on the cutting edge. I thank Ranking Member Bishop for joining me in this important effort.”

“We rely on America’s farmers to produce the safest, most abundant, and affordable food, fiber, and materials. Yet they face many challenges such as supply chain resiliency, workforce capacity, input costs, coping with invasive species and pests, as well as the fallout of climate change. We must ensure that we are on the cutting edge of technology that can assist our farmers and producers,” said Rep. Bishop, Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee. “For over a century, land-grant institutions – like Fort Valley State University – have been at the forefront of research, development, and extension which has allowed U.S. agriculture to thrive. I am pleased to work with Congressman Franklin through this legislation to harness the power of our 1862 and 1890 land-grant institutions to explore how mechanized harvesting and artificial intelligence can help improve U.S. agriculture.”

“Authorization for USDA to fund research into agricultural applications for artificial intelligence is essential to the future of American farms. The land-grant universities engaged in first-rate science cannot deliver it at the speed necessary to keep us globally competitive without USDA support. Funding for AI-guided agricultural science will drive the innovation that keeps America globally competitive and not reliant upon other nations for its food supply,” said Dr. J. Scott Angle, Senior Vice President of Agriculture and Natural Resources, UF/IFAS.

“As the world’s population grows, it’s critical that agriculture is able to embrace new technologies that strengthen how we produce food, fiber, and fuel. This effort ensures that innovation remains central in research, particularly as emerging tools, including advanced data systems and advanced breeding approaches, create new opportunities to solve complex challenges. Expanding our focus on developing and evaluating these technologies ensures that producers have practical, science-based solutions they can trust.,” said Dr. Nick Place, Dean of the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES).

Specifically, this legislation updates USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture research priorities to allow land grant institutions to apply for competitive grants to support farm mechanization and agricultural artificial intelligence applications, invasive species and aquaculture research initiatives. The pair's bill will allow land grant institutions to continue to innovate and pioneer solutions to the challenges facing our nation's agricultural producers.

Read the full bill text here.

Franklin Issues Statement on the State of the Union Address

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Rep. Scott Franklin issued the following statement regarding President Donald Trump's State of the Union Address:

"President Trump outlined a vision centered on peace through strength, economic growth, and renewed opportunity for the American people. In Florida, we understand peace through strength is not just a slogan. It means supporting our servicemembers, strengthening our military readiness, and ensuring our defense industrial base remains second to none. A strong America deters conflict and protects our freedoms at home and abroad.

"The president’s commitment to tax relief and pro-growth policies is also critical for Florida families, small businesses, farmers, and retirees. Lower taxes and a stronger economy mean more opportunity, more jobs, and greater security for hardworking Floridians. There is more work to do, and I remain committed to advancing policies that keep Florida safe, grow our economy, support our farmers and expand opportunity across our communities."

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