NEWS FROM THE SECOND DISTRICT
Dear Friend,
We have five months left in 2020 but only a few weeks left in the legislative session. This year feels like it is flying by. Earlier this week, I held a Tele Town Hall to discuss how I can help you and your family during this pandemic. In addition to questions about COVID-19 and economic impact payments, constituents asked me about support for our military. I’m pleased to report that the support is on its way.
The National Defense Authorization Act of 2021 (NDAA) was passed on Tuesday. As a veteran and representative of a district with a large military presence, supporting our troops and their families is a top priority. This bill includes a 3% pay increase for our troops, as well as provisions for the Department of Defense to address COVID-19, including PPE, testing capabilities, and diagnostic testing. The NDAA bill is not perfect, but I’m looking forward to working with President Trump and the Senate on a finished product that keeps our nation strong and ensures our servicemembers have what they need.
Looking ahead, Congress will vote on additional budget items and potentially another Coronavirus package in the upcoming weeks. I’m working hard to get you the support you need, and I will continue to update you as we consider these bills.
Please read about my week below:
My Week in the DistrictTele Town Hall
Thank you everyone who joined my Tele Town Hall on Tuesday evening! I spoke with several constituents who had excellent questions about health and safety. Constituents were also concerned about our economy and how our area will recover from this pandemic. The Paycheck Protection Program was a great start and has helped many; however, recovery is going to take time. If you need assistance with economic impact payments, small business loans, or anything involving a federal agency, please reach out to my team. We want to help you.
If we missed you or if I didn’t get around to your question, please do not fret. I will hold another Tele Town Hall soon.
Interview with Panama City’s WMBB – Channel 13
On Wednesday, I spoke with WMBB in Panama City about the National Defense Authorization Act of 2021 (NDAA), which was passed earlier this week. I explained what I liked and disliked about the bill. This bill was the best bill we could get out of the Democrats, and it took a lot of compromising to get there.
Additionally, I spoke about the current COVID-19 stats in Florida, how our economy has been affected, and best practices to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones. You can read about the interview here.
Legislative UpdateThe Doctors Caucus
The Doctors Caucus spoke with the White House this week about how to protect Americans from surprise medical billing. This is a serious issue that deserves attention, especially during a pandemic. Families with insurance should not be burdened by additional costs for care.
Another important topic President Trump is tackling is high prescription drug costs. I support President Trump’s efforts to protect Americans from crippling prescription drug prices and I believe the one-month delay implementing an international pricing index is an opportunity to lower drug prices without harming innovation. While I am not in favor of government price controls, it is clear this issue needs immediate action. You and your family should not be blindsided by outrageous costs.
Following this Executive Order, I expect renewed interest in working with Congress and the Trump Administration on a legislative solution that addresses high drug prices and bolsters innovation so America can continue to be a leader in the biomedical and pharmaceutical sector. Republicans have offered the Lower Costs, More Cures Act as a solution that is a good place to start.
Coronavirus UpdatesRecent Updates
- Due to a system error, not all economic impact payment debit cards scheduled for mailing on May 22 were issued. The Internal Revenue Service is working to issue the payment as a paper check to your address on file. Get My Payment will provide a new date once your payment by check has been scheduled. We will update you when we have more information.
- Many cities and counties throughout the state of Florida have issued face mask mandates. The Florida Chamber of Commerce has a list of who has issued requirements. Access the list here to stay updated on announcements and changes.
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) created a new website section about COVID-19 for people with cancer and health care professionals to highlight FDA resources and how the FDA is working diligently to meet the needs of the vulnerable community during this critical time.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you in Congress!
Sincerely,
Dr. Neal Dunn
Member of Congress
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IN THE NEWS
Constituent Casework Corner
A very upset veteran contacted my office when their Department of Veterans Affairs primary care physician changed the dosage of their medication without their knowledge. My office explained to the veteran that we could not force the VA to make changes to his medication. However, we contacted the VA which facilitated a conversation between the veteran and leadership at the VA medical facility. Even though the dosage of the medication was not changed, the veteran thanked my team for listening and making them feel like someone cared.
Do you need help with a federal agency? Contact my office at 850-785-0812 or at www.dunn.house.gov
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