PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – U.S. Representative Charlie Crist (D-FL) released a statement following the announcement by Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) that Crist has been named Vice Chair of the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Subcommittee (CJS). The Subcommittee is Chaired by Congressman Matt Cartwright (D-PA).
Congressman Crist has been a member of the subcommittee since his appointment to the powerful Appropriations Committee in 2019.
In his role on CJS, Crist has fought for millions in funding towards projects of importance to Pinellas County, most recently securing $13 million for research and mitigation efforts against red tide and other harmful algae blooms, and $25 million for veteran treatment courts to give veterans access to treatment options instead of jail time.
The subcommittee not only has jurisdiction over the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Department of Justice – including harmful algae bloom research funding, criminal justice and policing reform, and veteran treatment court programs similar to the bill passed by Congressman Crist last year – but also oversees Department of Commerce, the National Science Foundation, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administrations (NASA).
“I’m grateful to Chairwoman DeLauro and Chairman Cartwright for the opportunity to serve as Vice Chairman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science,” said Rep. Crist. “I look forward to continuing our work on the issues that matter most to Floridians: protecting our environment, serving those who have served our nation, and building back our communities and small businesses as we rebound from COVID-19. From securing funding to fight red tide, to improving federal marijuana policy, to supporting Florida’s aerospace industry, this new leadership role will allow me to continue delivering for the Sunshine State.”
In addition to being Vice-Chair of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science, Congressman Crist is also a member of the Defense Subcommittee and the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Subcommittee.