Legislative Update – April 11, 2021

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Legislative Update – April 11, 2021

This week, the Florida Senate passed the proposed $95 billion state budget for the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year. The budget aims to support Floridians as we continue to recover and rebuild from the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the budget includes funding for key initiatives that will benefit our state beyond the pandemic.
Priorities include support for new workforce opportunities, projects to help address the rising sea level and Everglades restoration, and major investments in Florida’s infrastructure.
The Florida House passed its proposed budget this week, too. Budget negotiations will begin as early as next week to resolve differences and produce a consensus budget before April 30 for the Governor’s consideration.
As the budget process progresses, legislation continues to move through the process. It is important to note that bills as originally filed oftentimes change dramatically in committee hearings due to input from the public and committee members. SB 86 on Bright Futures is such an example (see my comments below). If you are interested in following the course of any piece of legislation go to the Florida Senate website: https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bills/2021.

Florida COVID-19 Vaccine Update
As of Thursday, April 8, 10,732,071 vaccine doses have been administered in Florida. There are now 6,942,405 individuals who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 in Florida.
As of this Monday, all individuals aged 18 and older are now eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccines. You may watch the Governor’s previous announcement here.
Check the Florida Department of Health COVID-19 website for the latest information.

Reminder: Pre-Register for the COVID-19 Vaccine & Use the DOH Vaccine Locator
Visit the Florida Department of Health (DOH) statewide vaccine locator site and preregistration system to schedule COVID-19 vaccine appointments.
Both websites help eligible Floridians preregister for the vaccine and locate nearby vaccination sites.

COVID-19 Update: Florida Case Data
As of April 9, there have been 2,111,807 positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Florida, including 32,138 in Collier County, 4,507 in Hendry County and 62,224 in Lee County.
As of April 8, the state’s positivity rate for new cases is 6.66%.
To find the most up-to-date information and guidance, you can visit the Florida Department of Health (DOH) COVID-19 webpage.
For information and advisories from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), please visit the CDC COVID-19 website.

Senate Unanimously Approves Balanced Budget with Major Investments in Infrastructure, Environment
The Florida Senate unanimously approved Senate Bill 2500: Appropriations, the Senate’s proposed budget for the 2021-2022 fiscal year. The $95 billion budget includes key investment infrastructure, water quality improvements and environmental restoration, child welfare, and an increase in the minimum wage for state workers.
The balanced budget includes $5 billion in reserves to responsibly plan for Florida’s future as the economy recovers from the COVID-19 Pandemic.
The budget proposal fully funds the Medicaid program, which increased by 730,000 enrollees as a result of the pandemic and maintains last year’s unprecedented level of per-student funding for K-12 education, including a $500 million allocation to raise teacher salaries. The budget also provides for a $50 million increase in our investment in the child welfare system and increases the minimum wage for state workers to $13 per hour, three years ahead of the timeline outlined by the constitutional amendment that passed last fall.
Additionally, the Senate approved conforming bills associated with the balanced budget that make comprehensive investments in Florida’s infrastructure and environment. Senate Bill 2512, Documentary Stamp Tax Distributions, forms a three-part infrastructure plan to prioritize funding in state and local affordable housing programs, mitigate the impacts of sea-level rise, and enhance wastewater programs, including septic-to-sewer conversions. The new framework provides that affordable housing programs would receive approximately $200 million. Programs established to mitigate the impacts of sea-level rise and enhance wastewater programs would each receive approximately $111 million.

Senate Prioritizes Legislation Expediting Water Storage North of Lake Okeechobee
Senate Bill 2516: Water Storage North of Lake Okeechobee, works to improve the water quality in Lake Okeechobee and reduce damaging discharges.
The legislation expedites the Lake Okeechobee Watershed Restoration Project, providing for water storage north of Lake Okeechobee, and secures $50 million annually to ensure the success of this transformative policy.
Senate Bill 2516 will serve to mitigate toxic algal blooms, protect against droughts, improve water quality and quantity, and preserve Florida’s unique environment for generations to come.

Measure to Replenish Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund, Cut Business Rent Tax Sent to Governor’s Desk
The Florida Senate recognizes the hardships Florida’s businesses have endured during the ongoing pandemic. Senate Bill 50: Taxation, by Senator Joe Gruters, passed off the Senate Floor and prevents an unexpected tax hike on Florida businesses, creates a fair playing field with out-of-state businesses, ensures necessary compensation is available for Florida workers seeking re-employment and cuts Florida’s business rent tax by $1 billion.
Unlike brick and mortar businesses here in Florida, out-of-state retailers or marketplaces that sell products online do not always remit the sales tax for each purchase. This legislation simply ensures marketplaces and out-of-state retailers collect the owed sales tax at the point of sale for remote purchases, and remit these taxes to the state, just like in-state retailers. This measure helps create a fair climate for our state’s businesses, where everyone plays by the same rules.
Senate Bill 50 directs these funds, approximately $1 billion of uncollected sales tax from out-of-state retailers, to be collected and deposited into Florida’s Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund for the next four years, or until the Trust Fund is replenished to pre-pandemic levels. Replenishing the trust fund will prevent an impending 700% increase in unemployment taxes facing businesses while ensuring that the fund remains solvent for employees when they need to claim their benefits. Once the Trust fund is replenished, additional funds collected from out-of-state retailers will go toward reducing Florida’s business rent tax rate from the current 5.5% to 2%.
Cutting the business rent tax by 3.5% will lower taxes on businesses by over $1 billion. Florida is the only state to charge sales tax on commercial rentals of real property. This meaningful tax cut will lower operating costs for Florida businesses while helping decrease new businesses’ startup costs.

Legislation Safeguarding First Amendment Rights, Combating Violence Passes Committee
In the last year, violence and destruction from dangerous riots have plagued our state, Washington D.C., and cities around the country.
Now, the Florida Legislature is taking action to ensure public safety and preserve the First Amendment right of all Americans to peacefully protest. House Bill 1: Combating Public Disorder, presented by Senator Danny Burgess, passed the Senate Committee on Appropriations.
House Bill 1 upholds the rule of law and protects law enforcement officers from violent attacks.
The legislation increases criminal penalties for violence, burglary, and destruction during a riot, allows law enforcement to prohibit individuals from blocking traffic and obstructing roadways if a permit has not been obtained, provides for a six-month mandatory sentence for battery against a law enforcement officer during a riot, creates a process to reject efforts to defund the police, and makes doxing a first-degree misdemeanor. The Florida Senate is committed to ensuring individuals’ First Amendment right to peacefully protest. Rioting, violence and destruction only silence those protesting peacefully, and will not be tolerated here in Florida.

Measure to Combat Human Trafficking in Florida Advances to Senate Floor
The Senate Committee on Rules approved Senate Bill 1826: Human Trafficking, by Senator Manny Diaz, Jr., in an ongoing effort to end human trafficking in Florida.
The legislation expands the definition and scope of “human trafficking,” to better ensure
traffickers are brought to justice for this form of modern-day slavery.
The legislation also provides that certain communications between a human trafficking victim advocate or trained volunteer with the victim are confidential. This will help individuals feel more comfortable sharing their experiences and receiving these critical services in a private setting.

Measure to Stabilize Florida’s Property Insurance Market Passes Senate
With the cost of property insurance in Florida increasing rapidly, the Florida Senate passed legislation to stabilize Florida’s property insurance market. Senate Bill 76: Property Insurance, by Senator Jim Boyd, addresses several issues surrounding the rising cost of property insurance in Florida. Specifically, the bill clarifies options for insurance coverage related to roof damage and replacement, creates a uniform period for filing a property insurance claim, requires that the insured party provide notice to the insurance company before filing a lawsuit, and changes how attorney fees are awarded in property insurance litigation.
“We want to make certain that Floridians have access to property insurance that is both reliable and affordable. Right now we have a situation in our state where homeowners are paying more for their property insurance, and yet insurance companies are suffering massive losses,” said Senator Boyd. “One of the biggest drivers of rate increases is the extraordinary number of roofing claims in Florida. This bill provides a needed update to roofing policies to both protect homeowners and prevent the abuse of claims by predatory attorneys and contractors.”

Senate Passes Statewide Flooding and Sea-level Rise Resilience Plan
The Florida Senate this week passed Senate Bill 1954, Statewide Flooding and Sea-level Rise Resilience, by Senator Ray Rodrigues.
SB 1954 establishes statewide resiliency programs that assess and address inland and coastal flooding and sea-level rise.
The bill creates the “Resilient Florida Grant Program” within the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), which will provide funding, subject to appropriation, to local governments for the costs of resilience planning and projects to adapt critical assets.
The bill further creates the “Comprehensive Statewide Flood Vulnerability and Sea Level Rise Data Set and Assessment,” to be updated every five years. The DEP must develop a statewide data set necessary to determine the risks to inland and coastal communities, including statewide sea level rise projections; and develop a statewide assessment, based on the statewide data set, which identifies vulnerable areas, infrastructure, and critical assets.

Comprehensive Legislation to Improve Emergency Response Efforts Passes Committee
The ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic has highlighted several areas where the Florida Legislature can make improvements to benefit our state moving forward.
Senate Bill 2006: Emergency Management, by Senator Danny Burgess, updates the State Emergency Management Act to better address the threat posed by a pandemic or other public health emergency. This legislation passed the Senate Committee on Rules, chaired by Senator Kathleen Passidomo, its final committee stop before consideration by the full Senate.
Last year, Senate President Wilton Simpson announced the creation of a new committee, the Select Committee on Pandemic Preparedness and Response, chaired by Senator Burgess. The committee reviewed a wide range of issues regarding the state response to the pandemic, and this legislation is one step in addressing the gaps that were identified.
The bill provides for additional oversight and transparency regarding exercises of the executive branch’s and local government’s emergency powers to protect the individual rights of all Floridians while keeping our communities safe. It ensures the Division of Emergency Management (DEM) maintains a stockpile of personal protective equipment.
Senate Bill 2006 also requires the DOH to create a state public health emergency management plan and for DEM to incorporate it into a comprehensive emergency management plan.

Senate Passes Comprehensive Plan to Invest in Florida’s Infrastructure
The Florida Senate today passed Senate Bill 2512, Documentary Stamp Tax Distributions, and Senate Bill 2514, Resilient Florida Trust Fund. These conforming bills associated with the state budget establish the statewide plan to fund key infrastructure programs.
Senate Bill 2512 funds key infrastructure priorities; including critical wastewater programs, affordable housing, and mitigating sea-level rise, without raising taxes on Floridians.
This comprehensive proposal modernizes our documentary stamp tax distribution by dedicating a steady stream of funding to address these three critical areas of public policy.
SB 2514 creates the Resilient Florida Trust Fund within the Department of Environmental Protection and provides that the trust fund is established as a depository for documentary stamp revenues dedicated to resiliency projects as provided for in SB 2512.

Legislation to Provide Students With Improved Career Planning Tools Passes Senate Florida
On Thursday, Senate Bill 86, Student Financial Aid, by Senator Dennis Baxley passed the floor.
Since the Bright Futures Program was established, it has been modified many times, to include increases in investments. In 1997, the state funded $69 million in scholarships. This year’s budget invests $651 million of state resources into Bright Futures. When Bright Futures was first established, the funding was based on the cost of tuition, but today the program includes more support, such as the cost of books.
Over the last several weeks, I have received a number of emails on this bill, many from people who expressed concerns about the original version and were not aware of revisions made in recent weeks. The originally filed version did not contemplate reducing funding for Bright Futures. Instead, it tied the funding for each student to whether or not they were enrolled in a degree program that would lead to them getting a job once they graduated. That provision caused a great deal of concern to me and to students and parents all over the state.
I and many of my colleagues spoke with the bill sponsor to share these and other concerns about the bill. As a result the bill was amended dramatically.
The current version of the bill does not limit any student in their choice of degree selection or the courses they may take. The bill provides that the scholarships will be funded through an amount annually specified in the General Appropriations Act (GAA). The budget recently passed by the Senate fully funds Bright Futures Scholarships at current levels.
The updated Senate Bill 86 that passed the Senate floor this week provides a framework for Florida students and families to make more informed decisions about educational options and expands avenues of eligibility for merit-based financial aid scholarships.
Senate Bill 86 requires the Board of Governors (BOG), State Board of Education (SBE) and the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida (ICUF) to create and publish a list, by December 31, 2021, of programs and certificates that will not directly lead to jobs.
University students will also have access to the real-world outcomes of state university graduates by academic area, and students will be able to explore post-graduation median salary, debt, loan, and continuing education information before declaring a major.
The bill provides additional eligibility options for the Bright Futures Scholarship Program beginning for graduates of the 2021-2022 academic year.

Senate Committee to Meet Next Week on Three Proposed Gaming Bills
Next Monday, the Committee on Regulated Industries will meet to discuss three new proposed bills related to gaming in Florida.
As a member of the committee, I will participate in discussions regarding the following proposals: the creation of a Gaming Control Commission, the decoupling of jai alai, harness and quarter horse racing, and conform Florida statutes to the constitutional prohibition on greyhound racing.
Senate President Simpson recognizes that Florida is a diverse state and that Senators and constituents have many different opinions, beliefs and convictions regarding gaming. The fact remains, gaming is a voter-approved industry that has contributed billions of dollars to our economy for education, health care and infrastructure while providing hundreds of thousands of jobs to Floridians for nearly 100 years.
I will continue to keep you updated as discussions progress.

In the News
Collier CARES app launching to connect people with essential services
Minor league baseball: Fort Myers Mighty Mussels to open season with limited attendance

As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office any time that I can be of assistance.
Sincerely,

Kathleen C. Passidomo
Senate Rules Chair
State Senator, District 28

Kathleen C. Passidomo – Legislative Update – April 2, 2021

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This Thursday marked the halfway point of the 2021 legislative session. This week, the Senate Appropriations Committee met to discuss the proposed 2021-2022 state budget. Chair Kelli Stargel outlined the priorities funded in the budget, including key investments in child welfare, water quality improvements and environmental restoration.
Beginning next Monday, April 5, all individuals aged 18 and older will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Remember, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) has offered a vaccination site locator and vaccine registration platform to help you schedule your appointment. Please continue to take the necessary health measures to ensure your safety.
I hope you all have a most blessed Good Friday and Easter weekend.

Florida COVID-19 Vaccine Update
As of Thursday, April 1, 9,136,036 vaccine doses have been administered in Florida. There are now 5,979,4461 individuals who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 in Florida.
Last week, Governor Ron DeSantis announced he would lower eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine. Beginning Monday, April 5, all individuals aged 18 and older will be eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccines. You may watch the Governor’s announcement here.
Check the Florida Department of Health COVID-19 website for the latest information.

Reminder: Pre-Register for the COVID-19 Vaccine & Use the DOH Vaccine Locator
Visit the Florida Department of Health (DOH) statewide vaccine locator site and preregistration system to schedule COVID-19 vaccine appointments.
Both websites help eligible Floridians preregister for the vaccine and locate nearby vaccination sites.

COVID-19 Update: Florida Case Data
As of April 1, there have been 2,064,525 positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Florida, including 31,421 in Collier County, 4,452 in Hendry County and 60,679 in Lee County.
As of March 31, the state’s positivity rate for new cases is 6.1%.
To find the most up-to-date information and guidance, you can visit the Florida Department of Health (DOH) COVID-19 webpage.
For information and advisories from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), please visit the CDC COVID-19 website.

Governor DeSantis Signs Legislation into Law to Provide COVID-19 Liability Protections
This week, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 72 into Florida statute. This new law will shield businesses and health care providers from fraudulent or opportunistic lawsuits related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
I was grateful to take part in this momentous event. For more than a year now, business owners, employees and health care providers have endured many challenges while serving on the front lines.
When a business makes a good faith effort to adhere to safety guidelines and reopen during a period of extreme uncertainty, our laws should protect them from frivolous and costly litigation.
In addition, amidst continually changing and conflicting guidelines, many health care providers were faced with making difficult judgment calls. This law will ensure that health care providers who do the right thing are not threatened with frivolous lawsuits that hinder their ability to care for their patients.

Legislation to Reduce Fraudulent Property Insurance Claims Moves to Senate Floor
This week, Senate Bill 76: Residential Property Insurance, by Senator Jim Boyd, was presented on the Senate Floor.
With the rising cost of property insurance in Florida, Senate Bill 76 aims to provide fair and reasonable guidelines for both the insurer and the insured during the claims process.
SB 76 also helps prevent the abuse of claims by predatory attorneys and contractors. These reforms seek to reduce fraudulent claims by bad actor attorneys, public adjusters and contractors who take advantage of areas that were affected by hurricanes. The bill discourages frivolous property insurance claims and litigation by accepting the federal standard lodestar approach for calculating attorney’s fees.
This legislation ensures there is a clear understanding between homeowners and their insurance companies regarding when a roof replacement will be covered in full. It also establishes a clear and reasonable two-year time period for filing a claim.

Senate Budget Reflects Strategic Investments and Safeguards Key Government Functions
The Florida Senate’s proposed budget for the 2021-2022 fiscal year provides for key investments in child welfare, water quality improvements and environmental restoration. The budget responsibly plans for Florida’s future, despite a decline in revenues due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Senate Committee on Appropriations, chaired by Senator Kelli Stargel, approved Senate Bill 2500: Appropriations, which proposes a $95 billion balanced state budget and provides $5 billion in state reserves.
The budget proposal fully funds the Medicaid program, which increased by 730,000 enrollees as a result of the pandemic. It also maintains last year’s unprecedented level of per-student funding for K-12 education, including a $500 million allocation to increase teacher salaries.
SB 2500 provides a $50 million increase in the investment of Florida’s child welfare system and increases the minimum wage for state workers to $13 per hour, three years ahead of the timeline outlined by the constitutional amendment that passed last fall.
The budget does not include the approximate $10 billion in anticipated non-recurring federal pandemic relief funds, currently under review. This funding will be addressed later by the Florida Senate once we receive more information on our state’s overall budget outlook.

Measure to Increase Unemployment Benefits Advances
The COVID-19 pandemic has shed light on issues within Florida’s unemployment system.
The Florida Senate is taking the necessary steps to address these challenges. Senate Bill 1906: Reemployment Assistance, by Senator Jason Brodeur, passed the Senate Committee on Commerce and Tourism, chaired by Senator Ed Hooper.
The legislation proposes to increase the maximum weekly unemployment benefit from $275 to $375 and increase the minimum weekly benefit from $32 to $100, bringing Florida on par with the national average for state unemployment benefits.
“Representing a Central Florida district, my constituents were among the hardest hit when tourism came to a standstill last spring. This was an unprecedented situation that no one could have planned for, but it has brought to the forefront several important issues that should be discussed. We have a moral obligation to provide enough support to help meet some basic needs for Floridians who are out of work, through no fault of their own, and are looking for employment,” said Senator Brodeur.

Targeted Approach to Improving Lake Okeechobee Water Quality Passes
The Florida Senate is taking a strategic approach to address and improve the water quality in Lake Okeechobee and reduce damaging discharges.
Senate Bill 2516: Water Storage North of Lake Okeechobee gained approval from the Senate Committee on Appropriations.
Over the years, the Florida Legislature has appropriated unprecedented funding to address environmental restoration, and through collaborative efforts between the state and federal government, construction of the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir south of Lake Okeechobee has been expedited.
Water storage north of Lake Okeechobee is essential to accomplish the water quality goals outlined in the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. Senate Bill 2516 expedites the Lake Okeechobee Watershed Restoration Project and provides $50 million in annual funding.
Senate Bill 2516 will serve to mitigate toxic algal blooms, protect against droughts, improve water quality and quantity, and preserve Florida’s unique environment for generations to come.

Legislation to Ensure Life-Saving PPE Reserves for Health Care Workers Passes Committee
In the early days and months of the COVID-19 pandemic, in Florida and across the country, there was a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE).
“Non-essential” health care procedures were temporarily halted to preserve PPE, while many frontline workers wore garbage bags and reused masks in light of the scarcity of this critical equipment.
The Senate Committee on Governmental Oversight and Accountability approved Senate Bill 1760: Personal Protective Equipment, by Senator Ben Albritton, to ensure life-saving equipment is available to Florida’s health care providers in the event of a future emergency.
SB 1760 requires the Division of Emergency Management to acquire a stockpile of PPE, such as respirators, gloves, gowns and masks, so that it may be available for doctors, nurses and other health care practitioners to purchase in the event of a declared emergency caused by an infectious or communicable disease. The bill also ensures equipment may not be resold at a higher price than it was procured.
The legislation makes certain our frontline workers have access to the supplies necessary to continue providing the best possible care for Floridians in need.

Education Committee Addresses Impacts of COVID-19 on Florida’s Education System
A year ago, students of all ages and educational institutions at every level were drastically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Florida Senate is addressing the concerns of the students, parents, educators and schools who were forced to adapt to this evolving situation.
Senate Bill 7070: Impact of COVID-19 on Educational Institutions unanimously passed the Senate Committee on Education. SB 7070 provides protections for colleges and universities from lawsuits that decided to close campuses, and alternatively offer virtual learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The bill also suspends the penalties of K-12 standardized assessment results for this year, including school grades, turnaround status and student retention, and rewards schools that improved or maintained high performance during the pandemic.

Senate Moves to Expand Veterans Preference in Employment
The Florida Senate is making it easier to hire veterans here in Florida.
Senate Bill 922: Veterans’ Preference in Employment, by Senator Danny Burgess, unanimously passed off the Senate Floor.
The legislation gives state and local governments the option to waive educational requirements for veterans applying for certain positions if deemed appropriate by the governmental entity.
By empowering state and local governments to waive educational requirements for veterans — if deemed suitable for the position — more veterans will have the opportunity to find jobs in Florida.
This legislation continues the Florida Senate’s efforts to keep Florida as the most veteran-friendly state in America.

In the News
Hendry, Glades counties send teams to vaccinate rural areas
All Floridians 18+ eligible for COVID-19 vaccine April 5; people 40+ eligible Monday
Five miles of Old Tamiami Trail removed as part of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan
New programs at Collier County Schools help with students’ post-pandemic mental health, stress

As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office any time that I can be of assistance.
Sincerely,

Kathleen C. Passidomo
Senate Rules Chair
State Senator, District 28

Kathleen Passidomo – Legislative Update – March 27, 2021

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This week, the Florida Senate Committee on Appropriations, chaired by Senator Kelli Stargel (R-Lakeland), released Senate Bill 2500, the General Appropriations Act, a proposed state budget for the 2021-2022 fiscal year, as well as the implementing bill and conforming bills associated with a balanced budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
Due to COVID-19 and the related economic downturn, there is a projected shortfall of state revenue. Therefore, we must do more with less.
“We have a constitutional responsibility to pass a balanced budget in good times, and in difficult times. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, revenues that fund our day-to-day government are down, and we know we have some big expenses on the horizon, which means we had to make difficult choices throughout the budget,” said Senate President Wilton Simpson.
Our top priority is to support our communities to recover and rebuild successfully beyond the pandemic. We must also continue to keep our communities safe and protect our most vulnerable populations.
We welcome input and feedback from stakeholders and constituents. This is a process, and we will make adjustments to reflect the changing needs of our state and new information about revenue projections for the year ahead.
There are 34 days remaining in Florida’s Legislative Session. I will keep you updated as the state budget takes form.

Florida COVID-19 Vaccine Update
As of Thursday, March 25, 8,071,096 vaccine doses have been administered in Florida. There are now 5,346,471 individuals who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 in Florida.
This week, Governor Ron DeSantis announced he will lower eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine. Starting next Monday, individuals aged 50 and older will be eligible. Beginning, Monday, April 5 all individuals aged 18 and older will be eligible to receive the vaccine.
You may watch the Governor’s announcement here.
Beginning Monday, March 29, the following populations will be eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccines:
· Long-term care facility residents and staff;
· Persons 40 years of age and older;
· Health care personnel with direct patients;
· K-12 school employees of all ages;
· Sworn law enforcement officers 40 years of ages and older;
· Firefighters 40 years of age and older; and
· People who are “extremely vulnerable” to the virus with a completed state form signed by a physician.
As more vaccines become available, eligibility continues to expand. Check the Florida Department of Health COVID-19 website for the latest information.

Pre-Register for the COVID-19 Vaccine & Use the DOH Vaccine Locator
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) launched a statewide vaccine locator site and preregistration system to schedule COVID-19 vaccine appointments.
Both websites help eligible Floridians preregister for the vaccine and locate nearby vaccination sites.

COVID-19 Update: Florida Case Data
As of March 25, there have been 2,027,429 positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Florida, including 30,820 in Collier County, 4,429 in Hendry County and 59,501 in Lee County.
As of March 24, the state’s positivity rate for new cases is 5.58%.
To find the most up-to-date information and guidance, you can visit the Florida Department of Health (DOH) COVID-19 webpage.
For information and advisories from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), please visit the CDC COVID-19 website.

Florida Senate Takes Aim at Fixing Unemployment System
The Florida Senate recognizes the hardships Florida’s families and businesses have endured during the pandemic and is actively working to provide solutions, beginning with fixing Florida’s unemployment system.
Senate Bill 50, by Senator Joe Gruters, passed the Senate Floor and will prevent unexpected tax hikes on Florida businesses, while replenishing the Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund.
Unlike brick and mortar businesses here in Florida, out-of-state retailers or marketplaces that sell products online do not always remit the sales tax for each purchase. Compliance for remitting Florida’s sales tax has historically been extremely low.
This legislation simply ensures marketplaces and out-of-state retailers collect the owed sales tax at the point of sale for remote purchases, and remit these taxes to the state, just like in-state retailers. This measure helps to create a fair climate for our state’s businesses.
Senate Bill 50 directs these funds, approximately $1 billion of uncollected sales tax from out-of-state retailers, to be collected and deposited into Florida’s Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund for the next four years, or until the Trust Fund is replenished to pre-pandemic levels.
Replenishing the trust fund will prevent an unforeseen 700% increase in unemployment taxes facing businesses while ensuring that the fund remains solvent for employees when they need to claim their benefits.
Additionally, next week the Senate Committee on Commerce and Tourism will consider Senate Bill 1906: Reemployment Assistance, by Senator Jason Brodeur.
SB 1906 will increase the maximum weekly unemployment benefit from $275 to $375. These measures will help our state as we continue working towards a full economic recovery.

Legislation Honors Fallen Law Enforcement Officers
A hero remembered is never forgotten. Senate Bill 1716, by Senator Ed Hooper, honors the legacies of Deputy Michael J. Magli, Sergeant Brian LaVigne, and Officer Jesse Madsen, three Florida law enforcement officers who were killed in the line of duty earlier this year.
Deputy Magli served the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office for eight years. Sergeant LaVigne served more than 30 years with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. Officer Madsen served 16 years as a Tampa Police officer and served three tours in Afghanistan with the U.S. military.
The legislation renames a portion of County Road 611, East Lake Road, in Pinellas County as “Deputy Michael J. Magli Memorial Road,” a portion of State Road 60 in Hillsborough County as “Sergeant Brian LaVigne Road,” and a portion of Interstate 275 in Hillsborough County as “Officer Jesse Madsen Memorial Highway.”
The Florida Senate unanimously passed this legislation on the Senate Floor.
The Florida Senate is proud to honor Florida’s law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of others.

Comprehensive Higher Education Measure Passes Senate
The Florida Senate approved Senate Bill 52: Postsecondary Education, by Senator Ray Rodrigues, a measure to improve Florida’s postsecondary education structure.
The legislation ensures college tuition exemptions for students in the care of the Department of Children and Families, increases access to dual enrollment, creates a framework to reward exceptional university staff, and enhances professional development options for teachers.
“This comprehensive legislation addresses a broad range of issues related to higher education in Florida. Dual enrollment helps our students make the most of their high school experience with a head start towards earning higher education credits and credentials. We will also increase access to dual enrollment opportunities for students in public, private, or home education settings. Provide more options for teachers to complete their continuing professional development, and give the flexibility needed for the Florida Postsecondary Comprehensive Transition Program to better support students with unique abilities,” said Senator Rodrigues. “Our universities should be able to reward exceptional employees without being required to consider across-the-board bonuses. This legislation also authorizes universities to create individualized bonus structures for their best employees.”

Pro-Consumer Legislation Approved by Senate
Senate Bill 56: Community Association Assessment Notices, by Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez, unanimously passed the Florida Senate.
Senate Bill 56 provides additional notice requirements for condominium, cooperative and homeowners’ associations when collecting assessments by these community associations.
This legislation ensures condominium owners are informed of assessment changes enacted by their associations and will help to reduce late-fees caused by the inconsistent delivery of assessments.
These changes will keep unit owners, especially seniors, properly informed if the delivery method of a statement of account transitions to e-mail delivery.
The bill also increases the payment deadline for a condominium or cooperative unit owner from 30 days to 45 days after receiving an association’s Notice of Intent to Record a Claim of Lien in order to avoid the filing of a claim of lien.

Committee Advances Measure to Combat Human Trafficking in Florida
The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice unanimously approved Senate Bill 1826: Human Trafficking, by Senator Manny Diaz, Jr., in an ongoing effort to end human trafficking in Florida.
The legislation expands the definition and scope of “human trafficking,” to better ensure traffickers are brought to justice for this form of modern-day slavery.
SB 1826 also provides that certain communications between a victim and a human trafficking victim advocate or trained volunteer are confidential so individuals may feel comfortable sharing their experiences and receiving these critical services in a private setting.

Bill Proposal to Allow “Cocktails-to-Go” Up on Both Chamber Floors
Senate Bill 148, by Senator Jennifer Bradley, received its second reading on the Senate Floor this week. The legislation would allow restaurants to package alcoholic drinks or bottles as part of to-go meals.
The companion bill, House Bill 329, by Representative Josie Tomkow, has been calendared for a second reading on the House floor.
The bill aims to support restaurants by allowing alcoholic drinks or bottles as part of take-home meals.
The bill limits the “to go” option to licensed restaurants, caps individual container sizes at 32 ounces and requires motorists to place the drinks in locked compartments, vehicle trunks or an area behind the last upright seats in vehicles.

It’s Women’s “HERstory” Month!
February marks Women’s History Month, or as some have labeled it: Women’s HERstory Month. I am proud to be a woman in the Florida Senate and to be part of the amazing women over the years who have played a role in shaping our state.
Women like Edna Giles Fuller, the first female elected to the Florida House, paved the way for the rest of us. Illeana Ros-Lehtinen was later elected to the Florida Legislature, and she is responsible for creating many of the education programs our students benefit from today.
Today, women serve in many leadership roles in the Florida Senate, including Appropriations Chair, Rules Chair and Majority Leader.
Read the recap by the USA Today Network for a tribute to many of these Florida women!

State Senator Kathleen Passidomo Update

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Friday marks the end of committee weeks in Tallahassee. We will reconvene on Tuesday, March 2, to begin Florida’s first Legislative Session since the outbreak of COVID-19.
Since the adjournment of the 2020 Legislative Session, the landscape of Florida and our nation has drastically changed. I know the pandemic has created obstacles and challenges for many of us. Rest assured, through the leadership of Senate President Wilton Simpson, the Senate is prepared and ready to tackle the challenges that lie ahead and provide much-needed support for Floridians, especially the most vulnerable and in need.
As Chair of the Rules Committee, I plan to advance policies that will help our state recover and rebuild from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Florida COVID-19 Vaccine Update
Florida received about 345,000 first-dose COVID-19 vaccines this week. About 200,000 of those doses arrived later than expected due to the inclement weather experienced nationwide.
As we anticipate additional shipments, the state will open up more vaccination sites in Florida.
As of Thursday, February 18, 2,487,000 vaccine doses have been distributed in Florida. Despite some slight delays, Florida has delivered a higher percentage of COVID-19 vaccine, to its residents than New York and double the percentage of California.
Until all Floridians receive access to the vaccine, I ask that you continue to take safety precautions and remain in good health during this time.

Pre-Registered for the COVID-19 Vaccine? Sign Up & Find a Vaccination Location Near You
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) launched a statewide vaccine locator site and preregistration system to schedule COVID-19 vaccine appointments.
Both websites help eligible Floridians to preregister for the vaccine and locate nearby vaccination sites.
Individuals can preregister for vaccine appointments and be notified when appointments are available in their area by visiting myvaccine.fl.gov.
Vaccine supply remains limited, and appointments may not be available for several weeks in some counties. Vaccine availability will vary from day to day and week to week as we work to provide vaccines to the most vulnerable first.
The state is prioritizing:
• Persons 65 years of age and older
• Health care personnel with direct patient contact
• Residents and staff of long-term care facilities
• Persons deemed to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 by hospital providers

State Senator Kathleen Passidomo Update February 13

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This week was the fourth of five committee weeks ahead of the legislative session. We had a series of committee hearings to review bills, including a bill to establish liability protections for health care providers during COVID-19.

Florida’s positive case rates of COVID-19 are on the decline, but there are new threats on the horizon.  The B.1.1.7 variant of the virus, known as the U.K. variant, was recently detected in Florida, and there are now more than 300 cases.  Data indicates this variant is far more contagious than the original.  Therefore, it is all the more important for us to continue to protect ourselves and others. Help prevent the spread of COVID-19 by limiting gatherings and wear a mask.  Also, wash your hands often!

The good news is Florida continues to lead the nation in vaccinating seniors.  As of February 11, more than 3 million doses of vaccine have been administered.  Despite our great progress, I know there is a lot of frustration and angst among the many residents who wish to receive a vaccine, but have not been able to secure an appointment.  Supplies are distributed from the federal government and while the state has built the capacity to administer the vaccine, we don’t have the supply to meet the demand.  I have provided many resources below to assist you in receiving timely updates, finding vaccination sites and signing up for an appointment.  Thank you for your patience.  Stay safe!

 

  Florida COVID-19 Vaccine Update

Governor DeSantis announced this week additional COVID-19 vaccination sites across the state of Florida through the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program.  The Federal Retail Pharmacy Program sites will begin offering COVID-19 vaccines on Friday, February 12, at 490 pharmacy locations across 52 counties.  The State of Florida secured these retail partnerships and collaborated to identify strategic locations for each store to ensure maximum reach.

“Florida is proud to partner with Walmart and other retailers, including Publix, to expand access to the COVID-19 vaccine,” said Governor DeSantis.  “Through the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, we look forward to reaching more Floridians and ensuring that all eligible residents who want a vaccine are able to receive one.  We will continue to utilize strategic partnerships and identify innovative ways to get more shots in arms and put Florida’s Seniors First.”

For the first week of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, the state is expecting to receive 65,300 doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.  Future allocations through this program will be announced as they become available.

Read the Governor’s press release.

  

 

  Reminder: Find COVID-19 Vaccinations Near You

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) launched a vaccine locator site.  The website helps Floridians to find vaccine sites by county or city and contains contact information for each location.  Click here to view locations.

Appointments may be required, and vaccine availability will vary from day to day and week to week as we work to provide vaccines to the most vulnerable first.

The state is prioritizing:

·         Persons 65 years of age and older

·         Health care personnel with direct patient contact

·         Residents and staff of long-term care facilities

·         Persons deemed to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 by hospital providers

  

 

  Reminder: You Can Pre-Register for the COVID-19 Vaccine

The Florida DOH has launched a statewide preregistration system to schedule COVID-19 vaccine appointments for individuals 65 and older and frontline health care workers only.

Individuals can preregister for vaccine appointments and be notified when appointments are available in their area by visiting myvaccine.fl.gov.

Vaccine supply remains limited and appointments may not be available for several weeks in some counties.

Additionally, as part of the statewide registration system, each county has a designated phone number that individuals can call and preregister if they do not have internet access. Please find the complete list of numbers by county here.

  

 

  COVID-19 Update: Florida Case Data

As of February 11, there have been 1,798,280 positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Florida, including 28,783 in Collier County, 4,155 in Hendry County and 54,762 in Lee County.

As of February 11, the state’s positivity rate for new cases is 6.59%.

To find the most up-to-date information and guidance, you can visit the Florida Department of Health (DOH) COVID-19 webpage.

For information and advisories from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), please visit the CDC COVID-19 website.

If you are experiencing symptoms, please contact your local County Health Department.

  

 

  Senate Judiciary Committee Approves Strong COVID-19 Liability Protections for Health Care Providers

The Florida Senate recognizes our frontline workers as the heroes that they are.  From day one of the COVID-19 pandemic, Florida’s devoted health care providers put their own health at risk to serve their fellow Floridians.

Senate Bill 74: COVID-19- related Claims Against Health Care Providers, by Senator Jeff Brandes, passed the Senate Committee on Judiciary and aims to ensure health care providers, who do and have done the right thing amidst continually changing and conflicting guidelines, are not threatened with frivolous lawsuits that hinder their ability to serve their patients.

The bill requires a plaintiff who files a COVID-19-related lawsuit to prove that a health care provider’s conduct constituted gross negligence or intentional misconduct and establishes procedures to filter out claims that have insufficient factual support.  The protections apply specifically to acts or omissions made in reliance upon government-issued health standards or guidance relating to COVID-19.   Current law provides different procedures for negligence claims against nursing homes and assisted living facilities than for other types of health care providers, such as doctors and hospitals. Senate Bill 72 provides that its provisions will apply to all health care providers with respect to COVID-19-related claims.

“Through it all, our health care providers have made incredible sacrifices.  Physicians have been asked to make very difficult choices to delay surgeries and procedures to preserve PPE and other supplies.  Nursing homes were asked to keep their doors open and maintain staffing levels.  Around the country, we have lost thousands of health care workers who have struggled with this.  This legislation protects a health care industry that has gone over and above the call of duty to protect and help our citizens,” said Senator Brandes.

To learn more about the bill, click here.

  

 

  Legislation Advances to Ensure College Tuition Exemptions for Students in DCF Care 

The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Education, chaired by Senator Doug Broxson, advanced Senate Bill 52: Postsecondary Education, by Senator Ray Rodrigues.

Young Floridians who enter the child welfare system deserve all the support that we can give, and this legislation clarifies state laws to ensure students who turn 18 while in the custody of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) or a specified guardian are exempt from tuition and fees at Florida’s postsecondary institutions.

Senate Bill 52 also increases access to dual enrollment for students in public, private, or virtual education settings by creating the Dual Enrollment Scholarship Program, bolstering state funding of dual enrollment tuition and instructional material costs.

Additionally, the legislation authorizes universities to create a bonus program for their best employees. This allows universities to reward exceptional employees without being required to consider across-the-board bonuses.

To learn more about SB 52, click here.

  

 

  Committee Passes Legislation to Give More Children a Second Chance at Success

Children in Florida’s juvenile justice system deserve a second chance if they are willing to work hard and learn from their mistakes.

Senate Bill 274: Juvenile Diversion Program Expunction, by Senator Keith Perry, passed the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Criminal and Civil Justice. This legislation seeks to expand those who are eligible to complete a diversion program and have their arrest record expunged.

Diversion programs like this are designed to keep minors from reentering the juvenile justice system and to maximize their opportunity for success.

Senate Bill 274 expands eligibility so that minors who committed certain felony offenses, if recommended by a state attorney or law enforcement officer involved in the case, may complete a juvenile diversion program to have their nonjudicial arrest record expunged.

This legislation will provide more at-risk youth in Florida the chance to fix their mistakes and lead productive lives.

  

 

  Senate Judiciary Committee Passes Employee Protection Against Unions

SB 78, by Senator Rodrigues, prevents organizations from requiring employees to join a union without consent and ensures that employees who wish to revoke their membership are able to do so.

The proposed measure was heard in Senate Judiciary Committee this week and passed 6 to 4. It previously was heard in Government Oversight. Next, it will be heard in Senate Rules Committee, of which I am chair.

To learn more about the bill, click here.

  

 

  Call to Action to Army Corps of Engineers

Last week, Senate President Wilton Simpson sent a letter to Colonel Andrew Kelly of the Army Corps of Engineers – Jacksonville District, emphasizing his commitment to storage solutions north of the Lake Okeechobee.

“While I have been supportive of interventions both north and south of the lake over the last several years, my concern has been that the aggressive timeline for southern storage has been at the expense of very important interventions north of the lake,” Simpson wrote.

“Unfortunately, this timeline and the policy and funding priorities associated with it have unnecessarily pitted north against south and perpetuated the false narrative that a southern reservoir alone will solve the problem. I reject that narrative, and it is for this reason I have advocated that a concurrent focus on problems north of the lake — where the Everglades begin — is key to an efficient, effective, and complete restoration.”

To learn more about Senate President Simpson’s commitment to restore and protect Lake Okeechobee, read this story.

  

State Senator Kathleen Passidom Update February 7

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Friday concluded another interim committee week in Tallahassee.  During the week, Senate committees met to hear proposed legislative measures and review the Governor’s proposed budget for FY 2021-2022.   In March, we will start the 2021 legislative session and begin to pass legislative measures for the benefit of our state and to support our recovery from COVID-19.  To follow the process of any legislation or to review any committee materials go to the Florida Senate website and click on “Committees” or “Tracker.”

As you probably know, Florida will host Super Bowl LV this Sunday, February 7.  It is a real honor for our state to host this national championship, especially when Florida’s own Tampa Bay Buccaneers are competing for the title.  Stay safe and practice CDC guidelines if you plan to gather for the big game, and …Go BUCS!

Last week, Governor Ron DeSantis released his “Florida Leads” budget proposal for 2021-2022 fiscal year.  The “Florida Leads” $96 million budget proposal will require serious consideration by our lawmakers as we still continue to weather the COVID-19 pandemic and its lasting effects on our state and economy.  Like many businesses across the state, we have less general revenue than the previous year, and we will be forced to do more with less.  You can read more on the Governor’s budget proposal here.

While the state continues to experience delays in vaccine delivery and distribution, Florida leads the nation in the number of seniors who have received vaccinations.  More than 1 million seniors 65 and older have been vaccinated in Florida.  The state is also on track to offer the COVID-19 vaccine to every resident and staff member in Florida’s nursing homes and assist living facilities.

 

Florida COVID-19 Vaccine Update

As of Thursday, February 4, 2,209,641 vaccine doses have been distributed in Florida.  Despite slight delays, Florida has delivered a higher percentage of COVID-19 vaccine to its residents than New York and double the percentage of California.

Last week, Florida received about 307,000 first-dose vaccines.  The state’s capacity to administer vaccines significantly outnumbers the number of doses available in Florida.  As additional deliveries are received, the state will open up more vaccination sites.

Until all Floridians are able to access and receive the vaccine,  please continue to take safety precautions to help prevent the spread of the virus.

 

COVID-19 Update: Florida Case Data

As of February 5, there have been 1,752,330 positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Florida, including 27,305 in Collier County, 5,061 in Hendry County and 51,858 in Lee County.

As of Thursday, February 4, the state’s positivity rate for new cases is 8.76%.

To find the most up-to-date information and guidance, you can visit the Florida Department of Health (DOH) COVID-19 webpage.

For information and advisories from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), please visit the CDC COVID-19 website.

If you are experiencing symptoms, please contact your local County Health Department.

 

Find A COVID-19 Vaccination Location Near You

Last month, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) launched a vaccine locator site.  The website helps Floridians to find vaccine sites by county or city and contains contact information for each location. Click here to view locations.

Appointments may be required, and vaccine availability will vary from day to day and week to week as we work to provide vaccines to the most vulnerable first.

The state is prioritizing:

·         Persons 65 years of age and older

·         Health care personnel with direct patient contact

·         Residents and staff of long-term care facilities

·         Persons deemed to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 by hospital providers

 

Pre-Register for COVID-19 Vaccine

Last week, the Florida DOH launched a statewide preregistration system to schedule COVID-19 vaccine appointments for individuals 65 and older and frontline health care workers only.

Individuals can preregister for vaccine appointments and be notified when appointments are available in their area by visiting myvaccine.fl.gov.

Vaccine supply remains limited and appointments may not be available for several weeks in some counties.

Additionally, as part of the statewide registration system, each county has a designated phone number that individuals can call and preregister if they do not have internet access. Please find the complete list of numbers by county here.

 

Reminder: Sign Up for Text Alerts & Reports on Florida’s Vaccine Distribution

You can sign up to receive state alerts regarding vaccine distribution directly to your phone by texting FLCOVID19 to 888777.

The Florida DEM vaccine reports can be viewed here. See below for a list of other vaccine resources:

·         Florida Department of Health Vaccine Rollout FAQs

·         Lee Health FAQs on COVID-19 Vaccine

·         Lee County Vaccine Webpage

·         Moderna Fact Sheet For Recipients And Caregivers

·         Moderna Fact Sheet For Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine

·         Pfizer Fact Sheet For Recipients And Caregivers

·         Pfizer Fact Sheet For Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine

 

Reminder: Publix COVID-19 Vaccine Locations

After recent expansions on Wednesday, there are currently 261 Publix locations in Florida assisting in providing vaccines to local seniors.

There is tremendous demand for the vaccine and a limited supply.  As of now, all available COVID-19 vaccine appointments have been claimed.

Vaccination appointments are scheduled online only.  Appointments cannot be made by calling Publix or the Publix Pharmacy.

You can continue to check for updates on Publix’s vaccine website here.

 

Florida DOH Prioritizes Mental Health During COVID-19

The outbreak of COVID-19 has been stressful for most people.  Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children.

DOH wants to remind Floridians, that taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress.  Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger.

It is natural to feel stress, anxiety, grief and worry during an ongoing crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Taking care of your emotional health will help you think clearly and react to the urgent needs to protect yourself and your family. Self-care will help your long-term healing

If you or someone you care about is feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others, call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 or TYY 1-800-846-8517 for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.  If it is an emergency, please dial 911.

 

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces $75 Million in Awards to Bolster Florida Communities’ Resilience to Future Storms

This week, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that $75 million has been awarded to 30 communities through the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity’s (DEO) Rebuild Florida Critical Facility Hardening Program.

The program, administered by DEO, allows local governments to increase the resiliency of critical facilities that serve a public safety purpose for local communities.

“While we continue to help communities recover from the impacts of major storms in recent years, we also need to prepare for future storms,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “This funding will be central to that preparation and make these communities more resilient.”

Local recipients of program funding include:

·         Collier County ($2,123,100) – to harden the Immokalee Sports Complex by replacing the roof and HVAC systems, and upgrading to wind-resistant standards.

·         Collier County ($767,550) – to install a new roof, windows and doors, and install a permanent generator for the Immokalee Branch Library that serves as a disaster recovery center.

·         Collier County ($2,819,107) – to replace the roof, windows and doors; elevate electrical and mechanical equipment; and install a new generator at the Collier County Golden Gate Senior Center, which operates as a disaster recovery center for vulnerable populations.

·         Collier County ($216,552) – to harden the windows and doors at Collier County’s Marion E. Fether Medical Center.

·         Lee County ($4,560,000) – to install new roll-down shutters, replace and harden the roof, and replace seals and windows of the Hertz Arena, which serves as a public shelter during a disaster.

·         Lee County ($2,786,415) – to harden and upgrade the roof structure for the Alico Arena at Florida Gulf Coast University, which serves as a public shelter during a disaster.

·         Lee County ($2,820,983) – to harden several roofing systems, and secure the HVAC systems of Lee County’s Waste to Energy facility.

·         Hendry County ($350,400) – to harden the building by replacing the roof, windows, and doors at the Hendry County Montura Flaghole Fire Station.

 

Senate Seeks to Maximize School Choice and Expand Scholarship Eligibility

Florida is a large and diverse state, and education should not be a one-size-fits-all approach.

Senate Bill 48: Educational Scholarship Programs, by Senator Manny Diaz, Jr., further empowers families to design the academic experience that best fits their needs.  The legislation passed the Senate Committee on Education, chaired by Senator Joe Gruters, and aims to streamline existing school choice scholarships and expand program eligibility for lower-income families and students with unique abilities.

Senate Bill 48 merges the McKay Scholarship for Students with Disabilities and the Gardiner Scholarship, which both serve students with unique abilities, into the McKay-Gardiner Scholarship.  The Family Empowerment Scholarship (FES) is expanded to incorporate the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC) and the Hope Scholarship to serve students from lower-income families and victims of bullying and harassment. The consolidated scholarship programs will operate as Education Savings Accounts to provide families with even more flexibility to foster the most beneficial situation for their child’s education.

This legislation increases access to a McKay-Gardiner Scholarship or FES, gives priority to support Florida’s students who are most in need, enhances accommodations for virtual school students, and allows tax credit contributions to be deposited directly into a designated fund for K-12 education to be dispersed through the Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP).

“Parents of all children, regardless of income, should be empowered to choose the educational environment that is best for their child,” said Senator Diaz.  “Using funds Florida taxpayers have already dedicated to education, this legislation consolidates our scholarship programs to make it clear what options are available to parents and expands eligibility to provide more options to more low-income families and families with a child with unique abilities.”

 

Florida Senate Reaffirms Commitment to Support and Honor Our Veterans

Two pro-veteran bills unanimously passed the Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security, chaired by Senator Tom Wright.

Senate Bill 260: Services for Veterans and Their Families, by Senator Gayle Harrell, creates the Florida Veterans’ Care Coordination Program to provide both veterans and their families with dedicated behavioral health care referral services, primarily for mental health and substance abuse.

Through the program, a veteran may call a separate veteran-dedicated support line to receive assistance and support from a fellow veteran who is trained to respond to the calls for assistance.

Senate Bill 416: POW-MIA Veterans Bracelet Memorial, by Senator Danny Burgess, establishes the POW-MIA Vietnam Veterans Bracelet Memorial to memorialize the sacrifices and experiences of those captured or missing in combat during the Vietnam War.

The memorial will be funded and administered by the Big Bend Chapter 96, Vietnam Veterans of America, and will be placed on or near the Florida Capitol Complex.

The Florida Senate is committed to ensuring Florida remains the number one state in the nation for our military and veteran communities and their families.

 

Legislation to Modernize Right to Farm Protections Passes First Committee

Florida’s legacy farming communities contribute to our nation’s food supply and billions of dollars to our state’s economy.  Senate Bill 88: Farming Operations, by Senator Jason Brodeur, increases protections for our farmers by modernizing Florida’s Right to Farm Act.  Our state has experienced tremendous growth since Florida’s Right to Farm Act was originally passed in 1979.

The Senate Committee on Judiciary, chaired by Senator Jeff Brandes, approved the legislation which seeks to update this important law so existing farm work and complimentary agritourism activities are protected.

“Farms that conform to generally accepted agricultural and management practices should not face frivolous or nuisance lawsuits,” said Senator Brodeur.  “By modernizing the Right to Farm Act, we are striking the correct balance between residential development and critical farm work and agritourism activities.”

 

Property Insurance Reform Bill Passes Its First Committee

With the rising cost of property insurance in Florida, Senate Bill 76, aims to provide fair and reasonable guidelines for both the insurer and the insured during the claims process.

SB 76, introduced by Senator Jim Boyd, ensures Floridians’ access to property insurance that is affordable and reliable while stabilizing Florida’s property insurance market.

This bill seeks to reduce fraudulent claims by attorneys, public adjusters and contractors who take advantage of areas that were affected by hurricanes.  Currently, Florida property insurance rates are increasing along with an extraordinary number of roofing claims.

If passed, the bill will reduce frivolous property insurance claims and litigation.

The legislation also ensures there is a clear understanding between homeowners and their insurance companies regarding roof replacement coverage.

 

New COVID-19 Liability Protections Bill Introduced for Health Care Providers

This week, Senator Jeff Brandes, filed Senate Bill 74 that would provide protections for health care providers from COVID-19 related claims and lawsuits.

The bill would provide immunity from liability for COVID-19-related claims under certain circumstances; requiring claims to commence within a specified timeframe.

The immunity would be applicable in situations where supplies, materials, equipment, or personnel necessary to comply with government-issued health standards or guidance were not readily available or were not available at a reasonable cost.

The bill will be heard next week in the Committee on Judiciary.

 

Legislation Advances to Protect Victims of Domestic Violence

Gaining unanimous support in the Senate Committee on Children, Families, and Elder Affairs, Senate Bill 68: Public Records/Staff and Volunteers of Domestic Violence Centers and Senate Bill 70: Domestic Violence Centers, by Senator Ileana Garcia, will enhance protections for victims of domestic violence as well as staff and volunteers of domestic violence shelters.

Senate Bill 70 provides a new criminal offense to further protect the locations of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) certified domestic violence centers.  Senate Bill 68 exempts from public record the personal information and addresses of a DCF domestic violence shelter’s current or former staff, volunteers, and their families.

“When victims of domestic violence seek refuge it is imperative that, for their safety, their location remains confidential,” Senator Garcia said.  “We must do everything in our power to protect these survivors from their abusers.  I am proud to sponsor legislation that heightens protections for survivors of domestic abuse as well as the volunteers, staff, and their families, who serve this vulnerable population.”

 

Pandemic Committee Reviews COVID-19 Response in Elder Care Facilities

Ensuring quality care for Florida’s senior citizens is a priority in the Florida Senate.

The Select Committee on Pandemic Preparedness and Response, chaired by Senator Danny Burgess, received presentations from Agency for Health Care Administration Acting Secretary Shevaun Harris, and Florida Health Care Association CEO and Executive Director Emmett Reed.  Both presentations focused on the challenges and strategy of COVID-19 mitigation efforts for residents living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities during the ongoing pandemic.

Committee members analyzed how these long-term care facilities addressed rapid response efforts, vaccination administration, personal protective equipment s, and changing guidelines.  The Select Committee on Pandemic Preparedness and Response will review all components of the state’s response to the pandemic, and identify areas where the Legislature can make improvements to benefit our state, including Florida’s seniors.

 

Florida Receives Funding to Strengthen the Fight Against Opioids

According to court documents, Florida will receive $40 million as part of a $573 million settlement between McKinsey & Company because of the global consulting giant’s role in the opioid epidemic.

The settlement between McKinsey and 47 states and five territories says that $558.9 million “will be used, to the extent practicable, to remediate the harms caused to the settling states and their citizens by the opioid epidemic within each state and to recover the costs incurred by the settling state in investigating and pursuing these claims.”

 

Bill on New State Retirement Plan Scheduled for Senate Committee on Governmental Oversight and Accountability

Next week, the Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee will consider Senate 84, by Senator Ray Rodrigues.  The bill would require new state employees to enroll in a 401(k)-style retirement plan.

This legislation would replace traditional pensions.

Currently, employees can choose whether to enroll in a traditional pension plan or what is known as an “investment” plan, which is similar to a 401(k).

Republican leaders have long discussed moving away from the traditional pension plan, as many private employers have done.

 

In the News

Collier Library to receive 1.5 million in repairs

Lee County acquires 427 acres for preservation program

Senator Kathleen Passidomo – Legislative Update – January 30, 2021

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Friday was the last day for one of my top legislative aides, Trenton Muntz.  For the past four years, Trent has worked hard for our district, particularly Hendry County.  He managed a myriad of legislative issues, helped many of you navigate state agencies and ensured your voice was heard in the Capitol.  He has been an integral part of my team since he came on board after my election to the Senate in 2016.  Before that he was the mainstay of that first campaign.  Trent begins training this spring in the United States Navy’s Officer Candidate School.  Our loss is the Navy’s gain!  I hope you join me in wishing him well as he begins his service to this great nation.

I know this unprecedented time has been stressful for many.  As you are aware, there have been difficulties in signing up for the COVID-19 vaccine.  Yesterday, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) announced the creation of a statewide pre-registration for the vaccine.  Below is the release provide by DOH on how to register (either online or by phone):

 

Florida Launches Statewide Preregistration System for COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, the state announced the launch of a statewide preregistration system to schedule COVID-19 vaccine appointments for individuals 65 and older and frontline health care workers. Individuals can pre-register for vaccine appointments and be notified when appointments are available in their area by visiting myvaccine.fl.gov.

This website will allow individuals who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine to be proactively contacted when vaccine appointments are available at state-supported vaccination sites. On the site, residents can select their county and submit their contact information. Once appointments are available, individuals will be contacted by phone call, text or email and will be assisted in scheduling an appointment.

Vaccine supply remains limited and appointments may not be available for several weeks in some counties.

Additionally, as part of the statewide registration system, each county has a designated phone number that individuals can call and pre-register if they do not have Internet access. Please find the complete list of numbers by county here. Whether a resident calls by phone or visits myvaccine.fl.gov, their place in line will be reserved reliably using Sharecare software.

As outlined in Executive Order 20 – 315, individuals who are eligible for the vaccine in Florida are outlined below. If someone does not meet these eligibility requirements, they will not be able to pre-register.

·         Long-term care facility residents and staff;

·         Persons 65 years of age and older; and

·         Health care personnel with direct patient contact.

Hospital providers, however, also may vaccinate persons who they deem to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19.

 

In January, Florida only received about 266,000 first-does vaccines each week, far less that the state’s capacity to administer them. Florida is expected to receive 40,000 more COVID-19 vaccine doses next week than in recent weeks. With more vaccine doses expected, the state can open up more vaccination sites, including churches, Publix locations and other state-supported sites.

As of Friday morning, 1,605,995 people have been vaccinated in Florida, including 1,136,242 people 65 years and older.  Despite some slight delays, Florida has delivered a higher percentage of COVID-19 vaccine to its residents than New York and double the percentage of California.

Until all Floridians receive access to the vaccine, I ask that you continue to take safety precautions and remain in good health during this time.

 

  COVID-19 Update: Florida Case Data

As of January 29, there have been 1,687,594 positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Florida, including 26,501 in Collier County, 3,986 in Hendry County and 50,163 in Lee County.

As of Thursday, January 28, the state’s positivity rate for new cases is 7.7%.

To find the most up-to-date information and guidance, you can visit the Florida Department of Health (DOH) COVID-19 webpage.

For information and advisories from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), please visit the CDC COVID-19 website.

If you are experiencing symptoms, please contact your local County Health Department.

  

 

  Florida COVID-19 Vaccine Update

On Wednesday, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida’s official reporting now reflects more than 1 million seniors 65 and older have been vaccinated in the state, leading the nation in vaccinations of seniors.

Florida is currently leading among all states in vaccinations of individuals 65 years of age and older.

Key efforts and actions in our state to put Seniors First include the following:

·         Florida was the first state in the nation to prioritize the vaccination of seniors.

·         More than 70 vaccination sites have been opened statewide in partnership with local communities and hospitals.

·         The Florida Division of Emergency Management (DEM) continues to administer vaccines in long-term care facilities across the state. These efforts are supplementing and accelerating the vaccinations being undertaken by CVS and Walgreens.

The state is expecting that staff and residents at all of Florida’s more than 4,000 long-term care facilities will be vaccinated by the end of the month.

  

 

  DOH Launches COVID-19 Vaccine Locator 

The Florida DOH recently launched a vaccine locator site.  The new website will allow Floridians to find vaccine sites by county or city and contains contact information for each location. Click here to view locations.

Appointments may be required and vaccine availability will vary from day to day and week to week as we work to provide vaccines to the most vulnerable first.

Florida has many sites that are providing COVID-19 vaccines, but supplies are limited and appointments may not be available at many of these sites. The state is prioritizing:

·         Persons 65 years of age and older

·         Health care personnel with direct patient contact

·         Residents and staff of long-term care facilities

·         Persons deemed to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 by hospital providers

Please be aware that some locations are only serving very specific populations, such as frontline health care workers.

  

 

  Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkees Issues Public Health Advisory to Prioritize Florida Residents for COVID-19 Vaccinations

The Public Health Advisory outlines eligibility and proof-of residency requirements for persons receiving a COVID-19 vaccination in Florida.

The advisory directs vaccine providers to ensure a recipient of a vaccine is a resident of the State of Florida by presenting a valid Florida driver’s license or identification card or is an adult seasonal resident who can show proof of a residential address. View the Public Health Advisory here.

  

 

  Text Alerts & Reports on Statewide COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution

You can sign up to receive state alerts regarding vaccine distribution directly to your phone by texting FLCOVID19 to 888777.

The Florida DEM vaccine reports can be viewed here. See below for a list of other vaccine resources:

·         Florida Department of Health Vaccine Rollout FAQs

·         Lee Health FAQs on COVID-19 Vaccine

·         Lee County Vaccine Webpage

·         Moderna Fact Sheet For Recipients And Caregivers

·         Moderna Fact Sheet For Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine

·         Pfizer Fact Sheet For Recipients And Caregivers

·         Pfizer Fact Sheet For Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine

  

 

  Publix COVID-19 Vaccine Locations

After recent expansions on Wednesday, there are currently 261 Publix locations in Florida assisting in providing vaccines to local seniors.

There is tremendous demand for the vaccine and a limited supply.  As of now, all available COVID-19 vaccine appointments have been claimed.

Vaccination appointments are scheduled online only. Appointments cannot be made by calling Publix or the Publix Pharmacy.

You can continue to check for updates on Publix’s vaccine website here.

  

 

  Legislation Advances to Protect Businesses Safely Reopening During the Pandemic

Florida business owners and their employees have suffered significant losses for nearly a year due to COVID-19.  The vast majority of these businesses have worked tirelessly making their best effort to adhere to changing safety guidelines and regulations.  The Senate Committee on Judiciary passed Senate Bill 72: Civil Liability for Damages Relating to COVID-19, by Senator Jeff Brandes, which aims to shield businesses from fraudulent or opportunistic lawsuits related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

When a business makes a good faith effort to adhere to safety guidelines to reopen during a period of extreme uncertainty, our laws should protect them.  Our legal system should not be a place where they face frivolous and costly litigation.  Senate Bill 72 works to separate the serious and merited claims from the fraudulent and unfair claims brought against a Florida business.  The legislation requires an affidavit from a physician attesting that the defendant caused the plaintiff’s injuries or damages.  It also requires the plaintiff to prove the defendant failed to make a good faith effort to adhere to safety guidelines and that the defendant’s actions were grossly negligent.

“Frivolous lawsuits should not interfere with the ability of business owners and employees to earn a living and support their families,” said Senator Brandes. “This legislation will create a safe harbor for Florida businesses who are struggling every day to keep their doors open during this unprecedented time.”

Senate legislation to ensure protections for the health care providers who have been on the front lines of the pandemic is forthcoming.

  

 

  Emergency Management Director, Florida National Guard Brief Committee on Pandemic Response

DEM Director Jared Moskowitz updated the Select Committee on Pandemic Preparedness and Response, chaired by Senator Danny Burgess, on the state’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts.  Director Moskowitz provided a week-by-week review of Florida’s vaccine distribution and administration progress.   Although Florida leads the nation in vaccinations of seniors 65 years of age and older, there remains a critical need for increased vaccine supply from the federal government.   The lack of vaccine supply from the federal government is currently the major impediment to vaccinating more Floridians, according to Director Moskowitz.

The Florida National Guard’s Director of Military Support, Col. John L. Steele, also briefed the Select Committee on their response to COVID-19.  The Florida National Guard continues to support the state’s COVID-19 response through operational support of Community Based Testing Sites, Community Vaccination Sites, Mobile Testing Teams, augmentation to airport screening, statewide logistics support, coordination, food distribution, planning and operational mission sets.

  

 

  Committee Approves Bill Ensuring College Tuition Exemptions for Students in DCF Care

Young Floridians who enter the child welfare system deserve all the support that we can give.  The Senate Committee on Education, chaired by Senator Joe Gruters, advanced Senate Bill 52: Postsecondary Education, by Senator Ray Rodrigues.  This legislation clarifies state laws to ensure students who turn 18 while in the custody of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) or a specified guardian are exempt from tuition and fees at Florida’s postsecondary institutions.

Senate Bill 52 also increases access to dual enrollment for all students by creating the Dual Enrollment Scholarship Program to bolster state funding of dual enrollment tuition and instructional material costs.  The bill also authorizes universities to create a bonus program to reward exceptional university staff.

“Dual enrollment helps our students make the most of their high school experience with a head start towards earning higher education credentials.  This legislation increases access to dual enrollment opportunities for students in public, private, or virtual education settings,” said Senator Rodrigues.  “Additionally, our universities should be able to reward exceptional employees without being required to consider across-the-board bonuses.  This legislation authorizes universities to create individualized bonus structures for their best employees.”

  

 

  Internet Sales and Use Tax Bill Passes First Committee of Reference

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused many Florida consumers to make more purchases online, instead of in person. Unlike brick-and-mortar businesses here in Florida, out-of-state retailers or marketplaces that sell products online do not always remit to our state the sales tax for each purchase.

Senate Bill 50 by Senator Gruters would require marketplaces and out-of-state retailers to collect sales tax at the point of sale for remote purchases, and remit these taxes to the state, just like in-state retailers.

This legislation seeks to create a fair climate and level playing field for businesses, where everyone plays by the same rules.

Last year, the Revenue Estimating Conference determined that by requiring marketplace providers and out-of-state-retailers to collect sales tax on purchases by Florida consumers, the state would see a recurring increase in General Revenue Fund receipts by $479.0 million.

This legislation would only apply to marketplace providers or out-of-state retailers whose annual sales in Florida exceed $100,000.

  

 

  Legislation to Repeal Florida’s Motor Vehicle No-Fault Law Advances​

Senate Bill 54: Motor Vehicle Insurance, by Senator Danny Burgess, aims to lower the number of uninsured and underinsured drivers and provide a greater safety net for Floridians in the event of an accident.  The Senate Committee on Banking and Insurance, chaired by Senator Jim Boyd, approved the legislation.

Senate Bill 54 repeals Florida’s current Motor Vehicle No-Fault Law, which requires drivers to carry personal injury protection coverage, instead of requiring that drivers carry bodily injury liability coverage.  The bill also creates best practice standards for handling motor vehicle insurance claims and requires insurers to offer medical payments coverage (MedPay) with limits of $5,000 or $10,000 to cover medical expenses of the insured.

“Senate Bill 54 transforms this ineffective and outdated insurance structure, which we believe will lead to a more stable insurance market and better outcomes for insured Floridians when they face the unfortunate and, in some cases, tragic circumstance of being involved in a serious vehicle accident,” said Senator Burgess.

  

 

  Florida Department of Education (DOE) Announces Reading Scholarship Accounts for Struggling Readers

The Florida DOE recently announced that the Reading Scholarship Accounts (RSA) application process is open. The scholarship program focuses on helping students struggling to read by offering aid for tutoring and other services. Statistics show that 90% of students who fail to earn a high school diploma were struggling readers in third grade.

To learn more about RSA and apply for the scholarship visit the website.

  

 

  Legislation Passes Committee Meeting to Promote Transparency in Government

The Florida Constitution provides that the public has the right to inspect or copy records made or received in connection with official governmental business.

Senate Bill 400, by Senator Ray Rodrigues, which passed the Senate Committee on Government Oversight and Accountability this week, would strengthen public record laws to prohibit an agency that receives a public record request from filing an action for declaratory relief against the requester.

This applies to the official business of any public body, officer, or employee of the state, including all three branches of state government, local governmental entities, and any person acting on behalf of the government.

  

 

  Legislation Filed to Stabilize Florida’s Property Insurance Market

This week, Senator Jim Boyd, Chair of the Senate Committee on Banking and Insurance, filed Senate Bill 76, an act relating to residential property insurance.  The bill addresses several issues surrounding the rising cost of property insurance in Florida.

Senate Bill 76 would allow property insurers to only offer homeowner’s policies that adjust roof claims to actual cash value if the roof is older than 10 years.  If passed, a homeowner who is offered such a policy would receive a disclosure that their insurance policy does not provide replacement cost coverage insurance for the roof.

To address the proliferation of litigation that has driven up the cost of Florida property insurance, the bill requires detailed notice of property insurance claims prior to litigation and changes how attorney fees are awarded.

Currently, an insurer must pay a reasonable attorney fee to the insured’s attorney, even if the insured only recovers a small amount in the litigation.  Under this legislation, the insurers’ obligation to pay the insured’s attorney fees will be directly related to how successful the insured was in recovering the amount demanded in the litigation.

  

 

  Resolution to Denounce Democratic Socialism Passes Committee

Since before our nation’s founding, the American spirit has embraced the ideals of democracy and freedom.  The Senate Committee on Governmental Oversight and Accountability, chaired by Senator Ray Rodrigues, voted to approve Senate Resolution 150: Individual Liberty and Democracy by Senator Manny Diaz, Jr.  The resolution rejects democratic socialism in favor of our true American values of individual liberty and democracy.  The Florida Senate will continue to protect our freedom, which unites us as a nation and is the cornerstone of America.

  

 

  Department of Elder Affairs Secretary Presents on Guardianship Program Improvements

In the Senate Committee on Children, Families, and Elder Affairs, Secretary Richard Prudom of the Florida Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA), issued an update on staffing issues within the Office of Public and Professional Guardians and any backlog of disciplinary cases.

In 2016, the Legislature expanded DOEA’s authority on guardianship and created the Office of Public and Professional Guardians (OPPG).  With their authority, DOEA is tasked with regulating over 550 professional guardians, investigating complaints against guardians and enacting any needed discipline.

OPPG has been focused on operational improvements including addressing the backlog of complaints, revising the investigative process and implementing new processes to improve transparency and responsiveness.

Secretary Prudom reported that DOEA is focused on continuous improvements in the complaint process, professional guardian training, education courses and overall department efficiency.

  

 

  Pro-Consumer Legislation Passes First Committee

Senate Bill 56: Community Association Assessment Notices, by Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez, unanimously passed the Senate Committee on Regulated Industries, chaired by Senator Travis Hutson.  Senate Bill 56 provides additional notice requirements for condominium, cooperative, and homeowners’ associations relating to the collection of assessments by these community associations.

This legislation ensures condominium owners are informed of assessment changes enacted by their associations and will help to reduce late-fees caused by the inconsistent delivery of assessments.  These changes will keep unit owners, especially seniors, properly informed if the delivery method of a statement of account transitions to e-mail delivery.

The bill also increases the payment deadline for a condominium or cooperative unit owner from 30 days to 45 days after receiving an association’s Notice of Intent to Record a Claim of Lien in order to avoid the filing of a claim of lien.

  

 

  Lee County Updates National Guard Testing Location

Due to spring training, the Curative testing site at Centurylink Sports Complex will be moving its operation to another location within the stadium complex site. The site entrance will be on Crown Pointe Parkway, and signs on site will direct people to the correct area.

Other than the location change, all other operations will remain the same.  Click here to view the changes.

 

  

 

  Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Nearly $100 Million in Infrastructure Awards to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Irma

Governor Ron DeSantis recently announced that nearly $100 million has been awarded to 24 communities statewide who were impacted by Hurricane Irma through the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity’s (DEO) Rebuild Florida Infrastructure Repair Program.

Rebuild Florida uses federal funding for Florida’s long-term recovery efforts from the devastating impacts of natural disasters.  The program provides local governments the opportunity to restore and improve infrastructure in areas damaged by Hurricane Irma.

Local recipients of the program include:

·         City of Bonita Springs ($2,958,297) – to increase storage pond drainage capacity.

·         Collier County ($602,786.32) – to improve drainage systems to mitigate future flooding.

·         Hendry County ($1,635,610) – to improve conveyance and pumping capacity to move stormwater to a larger detention area.

·         Lee County ($2,718,577) – to replace sidewalks and roadside drainage systems damaged by the storm.

·         Lee County ($732,540) – to clear five canals of vegetation debris and sediment.

·         Lee County ($678,566) – to replace the pedestrian bridge and Richmond Avenue over Able Canal and Lehigh Acres.

For more information, you can visit RebuildFlorida.gov.

  

 

In the News

Lee County ahead of the curve with ambulance disinfection technology

Collier, Lee schools start vaccinating older employees, school nurses

 

I hope you continue to take appropriate measures to protect the health of you and your loved ones.  As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office any time that I can be of assistance.

Sincerely,

Kathleen C. Passidomo

Senate Majority Leader
State Senator, District 28

Senator Passidomo January 15 update

/0 Comments/in , /by

Today concludes the first of the Legislature’s Interim Committee Weeks ahead of the 2021 Legislative Session.  In anticipation of the upcoming committee hearings and other meetings in Tallahassee, I took a COVID-19 test on Thursday, January 7.  On Sunday, January 10, I learned that my test result was positive.

I am fortunate to have experienced only mild, cold-like symptoms.  Out of extreme caution for the health and safety of my colleagues and staff, and in accordance with Florida Senate protocols during the COVID-19 pandemic, I have been self-isolating at home.  Though I was not physically in Tallahassee, there was work to be done and my schedule was full.  I was able to participate in briefings, committee hearings and meetings this week by phone, Zoom and over the Florida Channel.

I look forward to returning to Tallahassee soon and rejoining my colleagues at the Capitol to represent District 28.  I hope you are in good health and remain safe for the coming year.

Merry Christmas from Kathleen Passidomo

/0 Comments/in , /by
This year delivered many challenges to our state and our nation, but hope is on the horizon.  The FDA last Friday granted approval for a COVID-19 vaccine to be administered in the United States.  On Monday, December 14, a nurse in Tampa received the first COVID-19 vaccine in Florida after Governor Ron DeSantis accepted the shipment.  100,000 doses of the vaccine are expected to arrive in Florida this week, and will be administered to the workers on the front line, as well as Florida’s most vulnerable citizens.

While this is a great stride forward in our fight against COVID-19, the vast majority of us remain at risk until the vaccine is widely available.  Continue to follow CDC guidelines, practice social distancing, wear a mask and wash your hands.  It is our personal responsibility to keep ourselves and others safe by taking simple steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

I hope you all have a very merry Christmas and a blessed holiday season.  May 2021 bring you good health and great joy.

 

COVID-19 Update: Florida Hospitalizations & Case Data

This month, Florida became the third state to exceed 1 million cases.  As of December 17, there have been 1,155,335 positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Florida, including 20,294  in Collier County, 2,897 in Hendry County and 35,353 in Lee County.

As of Tuesday, December 15, the state’s positivity rate for new cases is 9.28%.

Data reported to the Florida Department of Health (DOH) shows there has been a steady decline in the number of reported Florida resident deaths who were previously diagnosed with COVID-19.

To find the most up-to-date information and guidance, you can visit DOH’s COVID-19 webpage.

For information and advisories from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), please visit the CDC COVID-19 website.

If you are experiencing symptoms, please contact your local County Health Department.

 

Local COVID-19 Hospitalizations

As of December 17, 12,370 hospital beds remain available across Florida, representing 19.91% of total capacity.

Collier County has 13.4% availability, Hendry County has 44.83% availability, and Lee County has 10.93% availability.

For real-time information on Florida’s local hospital bed availability and capacity, visit the Agency for Health Care Administration’s website.

 

Governor DeSantis Issues Updates on COVID-19 Vaccine Plan

On December 10, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his plan to distribute Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine in Florida.

“Our top priority is residents of long-term care facilities.  They are at the greatest risk and this vaccine could have a positive impact, not just protecting them from COVID, but allowing them to return to a more normal life,” said Governor DeSantis.

Elderly residents and individuals considered high-risk who suffer from multiple medical or health conditions will be next in line for the vaccine.

Florida anticipates additional vaccine options as other companies await approval from the FDA.  Click here to learn more about the Governor’s vaccine distribution plan.

 

Electoral College Meets

On Monday, December 14, I was proud to serve as one of Florida’s 29 electors and cast a vote on behalf of Florida.

It was a historic moment and an important part of our nation’s democratic process.  It was an honor to represent our state.

 

Florida Senate Committees Announced

Earlier this month, Senate President Wilton Simpson announced his leadership appointments for his 2020-2022 term.

This upcoming legislative session, I am honored to serve as Chair to the Senate Rules Committee.  In my new position as Chair, I will work to ensure we produce and advance policies that help Florida recover and rebuild from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Other chair positions appointed by Senate President Simpson are:

Agriculture
Chair: Senator Darryl Rouson
Vice Chair: Senator Jennifer Bradley

Appropriations
Chair: Senator Kelli Stargel
Vice Chair: Senator Aaron Bean

Banking and Insurance
Chair: Senator Jim Boyd
Vice Chair: Senator Doug Broxson

Children, Families, and Elder Affairs
Chair: Senator Lauren Book
Vice Chair: Senator Ben Albritton

Commerce and Tourism 
Chair: Senator Ed Hooper
Vice Chair: Senator Tom Wright

Community Affairs
Chair: Senator Jennifer Bradley
Vice Chair: Senator Ileana Garcia

Criminal Justice
Chair: Senator Jason Pizzo
Vice Chair: Senator Jeff Brandes

Education
Chair: Senator Joe Gruters
Vice Chair: Senator Shevrin Jones

Environment and Natural Resources
Chair: Senator Jason Brodeur
Vice Chair: Senator Linda Stewart

Ethics and Elections
Chair: Senator Dennis Baxley
Vice Chair: Senator Annette Taddeo

Finance and Tax
Chair: Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez
Vice Chair: Senator Janet Cruz

Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Chair: Senator Ray Rodrigues
Vice Chair: Senator Joe Gruters

Health Policy
Chair: Senator Manny Diaz, Jr.
Vice Chair: Senator Jason Brodeur

Judiciary
Chair: Senator Jeff Brandes
Vice Chair: Senator Audrey Gibson

Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security
Chair: Senator Tom Wright
Vice Chair: Senator Gayle Harrell

Regulated Industries
Chair: Senator Travis Hutson
Vice Chair: Senator Lauren Book

Rules
Chair: Senator Kathleen Passidomo
Vice Chair: Senator Ileana Garcia

Transportation
Chair: Senator Gayle Harrell
Vice Chair: Senator Keith Perry

 

Traveling? Remain Healthy This Holiday Season

Travel increases your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19.  If you must travel this holiday season, the CDC recommends the following steps to best protect yourself and others:

·         Check travel restrictions before you go.

·         Check CDC’s Domestic Travel Guidance and consider testing before and after you travel.

·         Get your flu shot before you travel.

·         Always wear a mask in public settings and on public transportation.

·         Stay at least six feet apart from anyone who is not in your household.

·         Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.

·         Avoid touching your mask, eyes, nose and mouth.

·         Bring extra supplies, such as masks and hand sanitizer.

·         If driving, pack your food and limit stops.

·         Know when to delay your travel.

 

Tips to Host a Healthy Holiday Gathering

If you choose to host loved ones in your home, the CDC recommends the following steps to make holiday celebrations safer.

·         Set expectations with guests ahead of celebrating together.

·         Limit the number of guests.

·         Have a small, outdoor celebration with family and friends who live in your community, weather-permitting.

·         Have extra unused masks available for your guests and encourage everyone to wear them.

·         Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items between use.

·         If celebrating indoors, bring in fresh air by opening windows and doors, if possible.

·         Have a separate space for guests to wash their hands or provide hand sanitizer.

·         Cancel your gathering if you or someone who lives with you is sick or has been near someone who thinks they have COVID-19.

·         It’s okay if you decide to postpone or cancel your gathering. Do what’s best for you.

 

December Festivities in Southwest Florida

As we finish out a very challenging year, we turn our attention to the excitement of the holidays and all the festivities that come with the season.

WINK News and the Naples Daily News have both provided a list of local holiday events for you and your family to plan ahead and safely participate in this year.

Visit the WINK News website or the Naples Daily News for a list of upcoming events.

 

Protect Yourself from “Porch Pirates” This Holiday Season

With the increased number of packages being dropped off at doorsteps and left on porches, the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office offered up some safety tips to prevent you from being a target of a home-delivery theft this year.  Here are some tips to protect yourself from holiday “Porch Pirates:”

·         Be sure to make note of your packages’ tracking numbers and monitor delivery while in transit.  Plan to be home during that time, if possible.

·         Require that someone sign for packages.

·         Try to make arrangements with your shippers to leave packages out of sight.

·         Establish a relationship with your U.S. Postal Service worker and service-delivery employees. This can be helpful when problems need to be solved.

·         Look into locking mailboxes with baffle doors that accept small packages.

·         Have packages delivered to your workplace or other safer locations.

·         Make arrangements for your neighbor to keep an eye out for your packages.

·         Install security cameras.

·         Rent a box or locker at your local post office or UPS store.

·         Insure valuable items.

·         If your uninsured packages are stolen, ask for a replacement by the shipper. In some cases, they may offer this for free.

·         Report stolen packages to law enforcement so they are better able to work on catching thieves, who are often targeting multiple homes.

·         Keep an eye out for suspicious vehicles that might appear to be following delivery trucks or lingering too long in front of homes.

 

Holiday Collection & Charity Drive Opportunities 

This year has been challenging for all, which is why this holiday season holds great significance to give back to others who may need a boost in spirits this December.  Here are some opportunities to contribute locally and help others have a joyful end to the year.

Cape Coral Fire Department Toy Drive
The Fire Department will accept donations for boys and girls newborn to 17 years. Gifts for teens are often in short supply.  Collection boxes for the toy drive are located at each of the 11 fire stations throughout Cape Coral. Read more here for suggested donation ideas.

Lee County Domestic Animal Services Gift Giving Tree
Visitors can pick an ornament, fulfill a wish and return it to Animal Services by Monday, Dec. 21, to help make the animals’ holiday a little brighter.  The adoption center is located at 5600 Banner Drive in Fort Myers and is open from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.  Click here for more information.

USPS’ ‘Operation Santa’
This program matches children and families in need with donors.  Gift givers can read letters online and select a child or family – or multiple ones – to support.  Online adoptions start Dec. 4 and end Dec. 19.   Read more on how to participate here.

Toys for Tots
Drop-off locations in Southwest Florida can be found here.

Operation Christmas Care
Every year, FGCU collects gifts for families in need.  Click here to learn more about the program.

Operation Christmas Child
Samaritan’s Purse allows you to build a shoebox filled with supplies and gifts to give to a child in need. Start building your shoebox here.

Be a Santa to a Senior
Home Instead Senior Care partners with local non-profit and community organizations to identify seniors who might not otherwise receive gifts this holiday season.  The company then works with local businesses and retail stores to help facilitate the purchase and distribution of gifts by placing trees and ornaments within their various locations.  Learn how to participate locally here.

 

Southwest Florida COVID-19 Testing Locations

Many testing locations offer free testing.  Find the most up-to-date information on services offered, appointments and locations at the links below.

·         Hendry County

·         Lee County

·         Collier County

 

In the News

3 Southwest Florida nonprofits receive grants from Gannett’s ‘A Community Thrives’ program

Southwest Florida Reading Festival goes fully virtual

Minor league baseball: Minnesota Twins invite Fort Myers Mighty Mussels to extend relationship

 

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas from my family to yours.

Sincerely,

Kathleen C. Passidomo

Senate Majority Leader
State Senator, District 28