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 This important legislation will finally end the outdated practice of changing our clocks twice a year and establish permanent daylight saving time.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.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatR+100$702K raised
Gus Bilirakis
Representative · Florida · Republican
Gus Bilirakis
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
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 promised Richard Star that we would get this done, and we are in the process of doing it, again, on behalf of our true American heroes, which I remain committed to achieving full concurrent receipt. Anything that is not included in this bill, we are going to pursue for the benefit of our veterans.
I just want to read off some of the 19 States that proactively passed laws to lock the clock: The great State of Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Alabama, Georgia, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Idaho, Louisiana, South Carolina, Utah, Wyoming, Delaware, Maine, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and of course, the great State of Florida, so it is not a Florida conspiracy. Mr. Speaker, we want to give people an opportunity to go out in the sunshine, an extra hour a day. I am thinking, first of all, safety for our seniors, but also for our children.
Biography
Gus Bilirakis began his career as an attorney and small business owner before entering public service. Elected to represent Florida’s 12th Congressional District in 2006, he focuses on veterans’ issues, health care access, and disaster preparedness. Bilirakis has authored legislation to improve support for veterans and serves as Vice Chair of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Known for his bipartisan approach, he works to deliver practical solutions and responsive constituent service for his district.
Education
- J.D., Stetson University, DeLand, FL1989
- B.A., University of Florida, Gainesville, FL1986
Professional History
U.S. Representative
2007-PresentRepresenting Florida's 12th district
Member, Florida House of Representatives
1998–2006Volunteer Staffer, U.S. representative Michael Bilirakis
Staffer, U.S. representative Don Sundquist
Policy Focus
Health42%
Armed Forces and National Security15%
Science, Technology, Communications12%
International Affairs6%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Gus Bilirakis's record in Congress.
Veterans' Health Care
Authored the COVER Act, improving veterans’ mental health care through expanded access to alternative treatments.
Opioid Crisis Response
Co-authored the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act to combat opioid abuse and expand treatment options.
Disaster Recovery Funding
Secured federal disaster recovery funds for Florida communities impacted by hurricanes and severe weather events.
Rare Disease Advocacy
Championed the National Pediatric Rare Disease Consortium, advancing research and resources for rare disease patients.
Committee Assignments
View details →- House Committee on Energy and Commerce
- House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party
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