Congresswoman Kathy Castor announced today that she and Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise have created the bipartisan Gulf Coast Caucus to help address emergencies, and discuss legislation and policy affecting the Gulf Coast. Caucus members – Democrats and Republicans – will work together to find ways to boost the Gulf Coast economy and environment, which were severely affected by last year’s BP Deepwater Horizon disaster. The group’s work will focus on issues including oil-related restoration and recovery, hurricane response efforts, tourism and seafood marketing. Read more »

“Unfortunately, Gov. Rick Scott rushed to judgment in rejecting Florida’s high-speed rail and the thousands of jobs that would have come with it. Read more »

“Today, Gov. Scott turned his back on Floridians and sent our $2.4 billion in high-speed rail money, and the tens of thousands of jobs associated with it, to other states. Read more »

Congresswoman Kathy Castor released the following statement today regarding Transportation Secretary LaHood’s decision to give Gov. Scott more time to review the high-speed rail proposal: Read more »

“I am devastated that Florida will lose thousands and thousands of new jobs to other states. We need those jobs and economic opportunities here. The governor's decision sends a terrible message to businesses that are looking at Florida for investment and hiring opportunities. Read more »

“Governor Scott’s decision demonstrates a devastating lack of vision for Florida and a lack of understanding of our economic situation. He should immediately reconsider his decision in order to save these jobs and not send the investment dollars to California and other states. Read more »

The start of the 112th Congress brings some new faces to Congresswoman Kathy Castor’s office. Castor is committed to having a diverse staff dedicated to serving Tampa Bay area residents. Read more »

“President Obama is rightfully focused on jobs and the economy and reducing the long-term debt and deficit. Read more »

Tampa Bay area families and businesses are already benefiting from the Affordable Care Act. Like millions of Americans, as Tampa Bay area families and businesses cut through the political rhetoric and learn about the actual consumer protections and tax credits in the Act, they are embracing the reforms. Read more »

Congresswoman Kathy Castor will conduct an information session for business leaders, travel agents, charter companies, religious and educational organizations and others to learn more about new travel and business opportunities in relation to the Obama Administration’s Cuba policy changes. Read more »