Representative Scott Franklin (R-FL) issued a statement after the House of Representatives passed the 2026 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, vowing to continue pursuing energy independence.
The Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act is a yearly appropriations bill that provides funding to agencies related to energy, natural resources, and national security, including nuclear weapons, energy and water policy, and critical minerals.
Notably, the 2026 version of the bill cuts spending by $766.4 million, a significant tenet of the Trump White House agenda, and passed the House by a single vote, 214-213.
"House Republicans are cutting waste and reprioritizing spending from every corner of the federal government," Rep. Franklin said in his press release, adding, "The Energy and Water bill is the latest step in that effort. It strengthens national security, restores American energy superiority, and redirects federal spending to public priorities - not political agendas."
Additionally, he emphasized how "We are returning to an energy strategy built on independence and long-term security. This spending bill modernizes our nuclear infrastructure, hardens critical systems against foreign interference, and blocks adversaries like China from accessing sensitive U.S. energy assets. It also eliminates funding for divisive, ideologically driven initiatives that undermine our institutions and weaken America's ability to lead."
"Florida stands to benefit directly from measures I've long supported," Rep. Scott continued. "Continued funding for Everglades restoration will help improve water quality, protect South Florida's drinking supply, and support thousands of shovel-ready jobs. The bill also advances research into rare earth recovery from phosphate byproducts, a statewide effort that reduces reliance on foreign adversaries and helps rebuild secure American supply chains."
"I will keep working to ensure taxpayer dollars go to projects that protect our security, invest in critical infrastructure, and deliver lasting value for the American people," the Florida Congressman concluded.
