Dunn, Neal RSS Articles

Reps. Dunn and Barragán Introduce Bill to Ensure Timely Access to Care for Medicare Patients

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C.–Yesterday, Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) and Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) introduced H.R. 8500, the Ensuring Timely Access to Coverage Decisions Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at improving Medicare patients’ access to timely and appropriate care.

Currently, Medicare beneficiaries experience delays and unnecessary administrative hurdles in seeking coverage decisions through the local coverage determination process due to inconsistent standards and a lack of transparency. This legislation would increase stakeholder involvement, require timely completion of requests, and create a formal review process for reconsideration decisions.

“Americans on Medicare too often face unnecessary delays and red tape in seeking coverage determinations for needed care. This bipartisan legislation will work to ensure patients receive timely coverage decisions and improve access to quality care,” said Congressman Dunn. “I thank Congresswoman Barragán for her work on this bipartisan legislation to bring fairness to Medicare coverage.”

Congresswoman Barragán said, “Too often, seniors and people with disabilities face long delays or inconsistencies in Medicare covering innovative medical devices or treatments that could improve their quality of life. That is why I am co-leading the bipartisan Timely Access to Coverage Decisions Act with Congressman Dunn and Congresswoman Tenney, which would make the Medicare coverage decision process more timely, transparent, and better backed by clinical expertise. This bill is an important step to helping ensure Medicare enrollees can access the appropriate care they need, when they need it.”

###

Rep. Dunn Bill to Reauthorize FirstNet Passes House

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) celebrated the House passage of his bill to reauthorize the First Responders Network Authority and ensure reliable communications for first responders.

H.R. 7386, the First Responders Network Authority Reauthorization Act, reauthorizes FirstNet, a nationwide, preemptive broadband network used exclusively by first responders during emergencies and disaster responses. Created by Congress following the attacks of September 11, 2001, to address critical gaps in public safety communications, FirstNet provides reliable, secure connectivity when commercial networks are congested or unavailable.

As the Vice Chair of the House Committee on Energy & Commerce, Congressman Dunn has championed this legislation through two markups and a subcommittee hearing. The Committee heard testimony from Walton County, Florida Sheriff Michael Adkinson, the current Acting Board Chair of FirstNet, underscoring the importance of dependable communications for first responders operating in crisis conditions.

“FirstNet is not just a network—it is the backbone of public safety communications in this country. Floridians know that in hurricanes and times of crisis, reliable communication for first responders can mean the difference between life and death. I thank my colleagues for their support of this critical bipartisan legislation, especially Congresswoman McClellan for her partnership on this clear mandate to reauthorize FirstNet,” said Congressman Dunn.

“Today’s passage of the First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act represents a victory for public safety communications, emergency first responders and all those that might come to rely on their services,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “I thank Congressman Dunn for his joint leadership and my colleagues for their support to reauthorize FirstNet’s authority and provide support to the American people in situations of life and death. I urge the Senate to pass this bill as soon as possible to reaffirm the reliability and resilience of the emergency communications network in times of disaster and recovery.”

BACKGROUND:

Click HERE to watch House floor remarks from Congressman Dunn

Reps. Dunn, McClellan FirstNet Reauthorization Bill Unanimously Passes Markup

Bill to Reauthorize FirstNet Clears Subcommittee Markup

###

Reps. Dunn, McClellan FirstNet Reauthorization Bill Unanimously Passes Markup

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC–Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) and Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced that their bipartisan legislation, HR 7386, the First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act, unanimously advanced out of the House Committee on Energy & Commerce with favorable consideration.

The legislation would reauthorize FirstNet, a nationwide, preemptive broadband network used exclusively by first responders during emergencies and disaster response. Created by Congress following the attacks of September 11, 2001, to address critical gaps in public safety communications, FirstNet provides reliable, secure connectivity when commercial networks are congested or unavailable.

The Committee previously heard testimony from Walton County Sheriff Michael Adkinson, current Acting Board Chair of FirstNet, underscoring the importance of dependable communications for first responders operating in crisis conditions.

“Floridians know that in hurricanes and times of crisis, reliable communication for first responders can mean the difference between life and death,” said Congressman Dunn. “The First Responder Network Authority is imperative during disasters and recovery. I thank Congresswoman McClellan for her partnership on this clear mandate to reauthorize FirstNet, and I am proud that our bill unanimously passed full committee markup.”

“The bill advanced out of committee today continues to deliver for the brave men and women who rely on it to get through life-or-death situations by strengthening our emergency communications network,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “When every second counts, our public safety community must have the best and most effective tools at their disposal. It’s our duty as a legislative body to ensure that FirstNet remains strong, responsive and ready to meet new and emergent challenges for years to come, and I thank Congressman Dunn for working across the aisle with me to draft a bipartisan bill that puts our first responders first.”

BACKGROUND:

Click HERE to watch remarks from Congressman Dunn.

Bill to Re-Authorize FirstNet Clears Subcommittee Markup

C&T Subcommittee Holds Hearing on FirstNet Reauthorization

###

Statement from Rep. Dunn on Line-of-Duty Death of Deputy Steven Bruner

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC–Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) released the following statement following the line of duty death of Calhoun County Sheriff's Deputy Steven Bruner:

"Leah and I are incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Deputy Steven Bruner. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones in this difficult time. Please join me in keeping the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office in your prayers as they mourn this loss and continue to serving their community in the ongoing wildfire," said Congressman Dunn.

Reps. Dunn and Soto Introduce Bill to Expand Access to Effective Cancer Treatments

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC–Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. (FL-02) and Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) have introduced the Facilitating Access to Innovation in Cancer Care Act (FAIC Act) to ensure cancer patients on Medicare can access the most effective treatments available.

Recent breakthroughs in cancer care have produced innovative therapies that improve patient outcomes while reducing long-term healthcare costs. However, flaws in Medicare’s current payment structure have prevented many of these treatments from reaching patients, instead favoring older, less effective options. The FAIC Act addresses this issue by requiring Medicare to reimburse certain cancer drugs separately, rather than bundling them into procedure payments that discourage their use.

CMS has acknowledged for years that bundled payment policies can restrict access to necessary treatments. While the agency took steps in 2025 to reverse this policy for certain diagnostic drugs, it has not extended the fix to cancer therapies. The FAIC Act would correct this gap by ensuring these medications are reimbursed appropriately under Medicare Part B.

Importantly, the legislation is budget-neutral under Medicare’s outpatient payment system.

“As a physician, I have seen firsthand the impact that innovation can have on patient outcomes,” said Congressman Dunn. “This bill ensures Medicare keeps pace with innovation so patients can receive the most effective care. By addressing this issue, we can improve outcomes, reduce recurrence, and ultimately lower costs for patients and taxpayers alike.”

“I am honored to work with Dr. Dunn on this effort to ensure Medicare beneficiaries have access to cancer treatments and diagnostics,” said Rep. Soto. “Cancer patients are a uniquely vulnerable population, and equitable access to treatments regardless of insurance coverage is critical to ensuring their cancer does not spread or return."

###

Bill to Re-Authorize FirstNet Clears Subcommittee Markup

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC–Today, Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) and Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced that their bipartisan legislation, HR 7386, The First Responder Network Authority Reauthorization Act, advanced out of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology with favorable consideration.

This legislation would reauthorize FirstNet, a nationwide, preemptive broadband network used exclusively by first responders on the ground during emergencies and disaster responses. Created by Congress to address a clear need for improved public safety communications after 9/11, FirstNet provides first responders with reliable, secure connectivity when commercial networks are congested or unavailable.

“Our nation’s heroes and public servants who put their lives on the line to protect Americans need robust and reliable communications," said Congressman Dunn. “Since 2017, we have seen success from the First Responder Network Authority. Our job in Congress includes critical oversight of the program, including transparency over the contract and maintaining accountability at all levels. FirstNet is imperative to Florida’s Panhandle before, during, and after a disaster. That is why Congresswoman McClellan and I are working on this clear mandate to ensure our local communities have the resources they need to respond to emergencies.”

“Born out of the tragedy of September 11, 2001, FirstNet plays a critical role in helping first responders stay connected during emergencies. With increasingly frequent extreme weather events like the recent winter storm that swept through much of the East Coast and the South and cost three lives here in Virginia, this could easily mean the difference between life and death,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Congressman Dunn and I are working across the aisle to not only extend FirstNet’s current authorization, but strengthen the program’s governance, transparency and accountability measures. We have a responsibility to those we serve to not only ensure FirstNet continues to fulfill its core mission, but also to improve it for years to come.”

Click HERE to view Congressman Dunn's remarks.

###

Statement from Rep. Dunn on Decision to Not Seek Re-election

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC–Today, Congressman Neal Dunn, M.D. released the following statement:

Congressman Neal Dunn said, “After much prayerful consideration and discussion with my family, I have decided not to seek re-election to the United States House of Representatives. This will conclude my service after five meaningful terms representing the people of Florida’s Second Congressional District.

As a physician, an Army surgeon, and veteran from a multi-generational military family, I brought my commitment to life, liberty, and conservative values to Washington. It has been my greatest honor to fight for lower taxes, our military and veterans, the unborn, healthcare innovation, and policies that empower Americans over bureaucracy and addressing threats from Communist China, Russia and others.

The time has come to pass the torch to new conservative leaders, return home to Panama City, and spend more precious time with my family and our beloved grandchildren.

I am deeply grateful for your trust, support, and prayers over these years.

America remains the greatest nation on Earth, and with God’s blessing, our best days are ahead.

Thank you, and God bless you all.”

Rep. Dunn Applauds Approval of Broadband Funding for Florida

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC–Last week, the National Telecommunication and Information Administration (NTIA) announced the approval of Florida’s final proposal for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Development (BEAD) program. The NTIA, located within the Department of Commerce, is now in the process of allocating $1,169,947,393 to 73,944 eligible broadband serviceable locations in Florida.

As a long-time advocate for expanding access to reliable broadband, Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) released the following statement:

“I applaud this significant movement to deliver real results for Floridians. Despite delays and unregulated spending by the Biden Administration, I am proud that the efficient deployment of the program under the Trump Administration will save taxpayers more than $940 million,” said Congressman Dunn. “This process has taken far too long, and I am pleased to finally see meaningful progress toward closing the digital divide.”

“Florida’s final BEAD proposal is an extraordinary achievement and a clear demonstration of what the Benefit of the Bargain reforms were designed to deliver,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator Arielle Roth. “By deploying a strong mix of technologies, Florida is advancing universal connectivity while saving nearly a billion dollars for taxpayers. Even more impressive, the state secured a level of provider match that exceeds its BEAD investment—showing how smart policy and competition can maximize federal dollars.”

Read more about the proposal HERE.

Rep. Dunn Introduces TALK SAFE Act to Increase Access to Mental Health Care

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC–Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) introduced HR 6994, The Mental Health TALK SAFE Act of 2025, legislation designed to address America’s growing mental health crisis by increasing access to psychiatrists nationwide while strengthening patient safety and accountability in telemedicine.

The United States faces a severe shortage of psychiatrists, with nearly 60% of counties lacking a single psychiatrist. Nearly one in four Americans experience a mental health condition each year, and a majority of individuals with a mental health condition do not receive treatment due to lack of access to care.

The Mental Health TALK SAFE Act of 2025 expands access to high-quality psychiatric care through telemedicine while implementing appropriate safeguards to ensure care is delivered by properly trained professionals. The bill also addresses dangerous prescribing practices by restricting bad actors, removing misaligned financial incentives, and ensuring controlled substances prescribed via telehealth adhere to FDA guidelines.

Congressman Dunn said, “Lack of access to care is the root cause of America’s mental health crisis. This is exemplified in Florida’s rural and underserved communities. In many parts of North Florida, families simply cannot find a psychiatrist, especially for children and seniors. The Mental Health TALK SAFE Act of 2025 expands access to high-quality psychiatric care through telemedicine while protecting patients from unsafe prescribing practices. As a physician, I understand the importance of ensuring Floridians can receive effective mental health care from qualified providers, no matter where they live.”

Currently, nearly 80% of psychotropic medications are prescribed by non-psychiatrists, with studies showing that up to 90% of those prescriptions are written without an appropriate mental health diagnosis. Inappropriate prescribing and fraudulent telemedicine business models have led to the misuse of controlled substances, prevented patients from receiving effective care, and cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars each year.

Research shows that psychiatric care delivered via telemedicine is safe and effective. By expanding psychiatrist-led telemedicine, the Mental Health TALK SAFE Act of 2025 is expected to:

Preserve access to clinically appropriate medications for up to 18 million patients
Bring psychiatric care to approximately 1,800 counties that currently have no psychiatrist
Expand access for 169 million Americans living in Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas
Increase access to child and adolescent psychiatrists in over 70% of U.S. counties

The Mental Health TALK SAFE Act of 2025 represents a comprehensive approach to expanding access, improving quality, protecting patients, and reducing waste, fraud, and abuse, all while ensuring Americans can receive the mental health care they deserve, regardless of where they live.

Click HERE to read the full text of the bill.

###

Rep. Dunn Releases Statement on Operation Absolute Resolve

Sat, 03 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman Neal Dunn (FL-02) released the following statement on the capture of illegitimate dictator Nicolas Maduro.

Congressman Dunn said, "I applaud President Trump's decisive actions to stand up to narco-terrorists and the illegitimate Maduro regime. Thank you to Secretary Hegseth, General Caine, and our forces that carried out a successful and necessary operation to remove an indicted narco-terrorist. Nicolas Maduro has turned Venezuela into a criminal enterprise that fuels drugs, partners with our enemies, and brutalizes its own people. America must stand firm against threats to our country."