Legislative Update – February 9, 2023

Senate President Kathleen Passidomo Speaks at Gov. DeSantis' Press Conference on Tax Relief

Senate President Kathleen Passidomo Speaks at Gov. DeSantis’ Press Conference on Tax Relief
Greetings from Tallahassee!
I wanted to send a quick update because this week in Special Session, the Senate passed an additional $700 million in funding to support ongoing relief and recovery for communities impacted by Hurricanes Ian and Nicole.
The bill includes an additional $650 million for the Governor’s Emergency Response and Preparedness Fund, as well as $50 million in funding for a Local Government Bridge Loan Program within the Department of Economic Opportunity. Working with my staff in Tallahassee, I authored the Bridge Loan Program to help communities in Southwest Florida, including Ft. Myers Beach, continue their operations. The program is modeled after the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program. Loans are provided interest-free. Our communities brought this concern to my attention last month, and we are taking quick action to help make you whole!
On Wednesday, I traveled with Governor Ron DeSantis and Speaker Paul Renner to announce a historic tax relief effort we are undertaking this session. While under the leadership of Governor DeSantis, Florida’s economy is booming, the pain of inflation due to the disastrous economic policies on the national level is very real for many Florida families. Florida cannot independently fix all of the problems created by the federal government, but we can and we will do our part to support Florida families by passing historic broad-based tax cuts that help Floridians keep more of their hard-earned money. You can watch my remarks on the video above, and join the crowd in choosing your favorite tax cut! My favorite is cutting the sales tax on dog food, and I know my yellow lab Tucker agrees. In all seriousness, this package includes a number of important tax cuts on household items that will really benefit growing families and seniors during this time of record inflation.
Additionally this week, two of my priority bills passed their first committees of reference.

 

Legislation to expand access to Florida’s iconic Wildlife Corridor, by Senator Jason Brodeur, passed the Senate Committee on Transportation. SB 106 expands access to Florida’s Wildlife Corridor, connecting the corridor to Florida’s Greenways and Trails System and the SUN Trail Network, as well as recreational pathways to heritage small towns across Florida. Our wildlife corridor provides a unique opportunity to experience the wonder and beauty of Florida’s heartland. With record investments by the Legislature and Governor DeSantis over the last two years, we have the chance not only to preserve this natural resource for future generations, but to expand access so more Floridians can walk, run and bike from trail town to trail town, taking in all our great state has to offer.

 

Senate President Kathleen Passidomo Talks About Live Local, SB 102

Senate President Kathleen Passidomo Talks About Live Local, SB 102
Live Local, Senate Bill 102, by Senator Alexis Calatayud, passed the Senate Committee on Community Affairs. The legislation contains our comprehensive, statewide workforce housing strategy, which is designed to increase the availability of attainable housing options for Florida workers who seek to live in the communities they serve.
All work is important to Florida’s economic development, and every Florida worker is essential to sustaining Florida’s communities. We respect the dignity of work and what a paycheck means for a family. Live Local expands our Hometown Heroes program, so that all of our constituents who work for a Florida company have the opportunity to purchase a home of their own. At the same time, with a growing workforce, demand for additional rental units has increased. Mortgage rates are higher than recent years and many new residents, younger working Floridians, and seniors do not want the added costs and responsibilities that come with home ownership. These factors are driving the current demand for rental housing, which is outpacing supply, keeping rents high, and pushing rental prices beyond affordable prices, as we know all too well here in Southwest Florida. Our legislation seeks to improve housing options for all income levels and stages of life as we continue to fund state affordable housing programs at historically high funding levels, provide new avenues for solutions in zoning, encourage more mixed-use developments in latent commercial areas, and enhance public access to information about expedited permitting and public property that may be suitable for workforce housing.

Read More on the LIVE LOCAL Statewide Workforce Housing Strategy
I wish you all an enjoyable Super Bowl Weekend. I look forward to watching the game. I’m rooting for Donna Kelce, the first mom in history to have two sons compete against each other in the Super Bowl. I’m praying for her, too. Go Donna!
Respectfully,
Kathleen

Kathleen C. Passidomo
Senate President
State Senator, District 28
Naples Office:
3299 East Tamiami Trail
Suite 203
Naples, FL 34112
239-417-6205
LaBelle Office:
25 East Hickpochee Avenue
Room J-101
LaBelle, FL 33935
863-674-7122
Tallahassee Office:
409 The Capitol
404 South Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399
850-487-5028

Not paid for at taxpayer expense.

Paid political advertisement paid for by Working Together for Florida P.C., 133 South Harbor Drive, Venice, FL 34285.

Diaz-Balart, Colleagues Launch Everglades Caucus, Request $725 Million For Florida Everglades Restoration

 

Diaz-Balart, Colleagues Launch Everglades Caucus, Request $725 Million For Florida Everglades Restoration

WASHINGTON, D.C.– Everglades Caucus Co-Chairs, Reps. Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-26) and Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (FL-25) hosted a roundtable discussion with Florida delegation Members and stakeholders to launch the Everglades Caucus and discuss priorities for the 118th Congress. Following this meeting, the co-chairs were joined by members of the Florida Delegation, Representatives Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Darren Soto (FL-9), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-10), John Rutherford (FL-5), Bill Posey (FL-8), Scott Franklin (FL-18), Brian Mast (FL-21), Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-28), Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24), Cory Mills (FL-7), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Laurel Lee (FL-15), Michael Waltz (FL-6), Daniel Webster (FL-11), and Senator Marco Rubio, in a letter to President Biden requesting an allocation of $725 million in his FY24 budget request.

This photo includes only a portion of the FL members who participated in the Everglades Caucus roundtable, along with Col. James L. Booth from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. From left to right: Reps. Mario Diaz-Balart, Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, John Rutherford, Brian Mast, Col. James L. Booth, and Byron Donalds.

In the letter, the members stated: “The significance of the Everglades does not go unnoticed for Floridians and our community who have worked together for more than twenty years to restore its cherished wetlands. This continued restoration of America’s Everglades is not only a national, but a global model for large scale ecosystem restoration and infrastructure investment that supports economic vitality, and promotes a wide range of ecological and community resilience benefits.”

Read the complete letter here or below.

“Dear President Biden:

As you prepare your Fiscal Year 2024 budget request, we write to respectfully request an allocation of $725 million under the Army Corps of Engineers construction account for South Florida Ecosystem Restoration. The Everglades is a national treasure, one of the true ecological wonders of the world, and further efforts to preserve this unique ecosystem will prove imperative to its long-term viability.

As you know, the Everglades is central to Florida’s economy; its biodiversity is an environmental marvel and is home to one of the world’s largest wetlands. A restored Everglades supports many types of resilience, including economic resilience, ecological resilience, resilience to severe weather events and drought, and a range of resilience impacts for people and communities. A healthy Everglades and appropriate water infrastructure provides storage capacity to prepare for and respond to infusions of significant quantities of water from hurricanes and other severe weather events. Further, intact coastal Everglades ecosystems add protection for the ecology and coastal communities from storm surge events. The Everglades restoration infrastructure provides the ability to manage water effectively and makes Florida’s environment, economy, and communities more resilient to the extreme conditions of drought. In addition, we cannot forget that nine million Floridians rely on the Everglades for their drinking water.

The significance of the Everglades does not go unnoticed for Floridians and our community who have worked together for more than twenty years to restore its cherished wetlands. This continued restoration of America’s Everglades is not only a national, but a global model for large scale ecosystem restoration and infrastructure investment that supports economic vitality, and promotes a wide range of ecological and community resilience benefits. With this in mind, we ask that you join us in building on the many years of upward momentum for a restored Everglades for the people of Florida.

We look forward to unifying our efforts to restore the Everglades as we work to advance vital Everglades restoration projects. Thank you for your consideration of our request for $725 million for Everglades restoration in FY24.”

 

 

 



 

HOA declarations enable the associations to impose fees, file liens, collect assessments and implement other protocols that provide for the administration and financial viability of the community. It is imperative that HOAs PRESERVE or REVIVE and maintain their covenants and restrictions under MRTA.

Moody’s Upgrades Collier County’s Special Obligation Revenue Bonds to ‘Aaa’

In a report dated January 25, 2023, Moody’s assigned its highest rating to Collier County, Florida’s Special Obligation Revenue Bonds. The ‘Aaa’ bond rating will enable Collier County to borrow at lower, more favorable interest rates, saving taxpayers millions of dollars over the life of the bonds.

Register for “The 5 Most Common Mistakes Buyers and Sellers Make” Real Estate Seminar this February

Collier County residents and visitors are invited to learn more about The 5 Most Common Mistakes Buyers & Sellers Make on Thursday, February 16, 2023. The seminar will be held at Collier County Library (2385 Orange Blossom Dr, Naples, FL 34109) from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

The Job is not finished until the Permit is Closed  

Installing a new roof? New air conditioning unit? Remodeling the kitchen? A permit is required before certain work may be done on the property, but the job is not finished until the permit is closed.

Deadline Extended to Petition the
Value Adjustment Board

The Collier County Property Appraiser has the responsibility to assess the value of any real and tangible properties for all Collier County citizens, including your homes. You may submit a protest to the County’s Value Adjustment Board (VAB) if you disagree with the initial appraisal.

Operation Greenlight is coming on March 25th at Heritage Bay

More Supporters Stepped Forward to Make our Valentine’s Ceremony Extra Special!

We are excited to share that several sponsors have stepped up to provide gifts and experiences for our couples at the Valentine’s Wedding and Vow Renewal Ceremony. These gifts include photos, cakes, food, gift bag items, and more.

Learn more

Office of Inspector General Alerted the Public to a Court Appearance Fraud Scheme

In the first week of January, our Office of Inspector General alerted the public to a fraud scheme after receiving complaints from Collier County residents about suspicious phone calls claiming that they failed to appear at a court hearing. The complainants stated that they were asked to pay between $3,000 to $3,500 in cash to avoid executing an arrest warrant with the Collier County Sheriff’s Office.

Learn more

What is the significance of July 7th at 2:00 pm?

As one of Collier County’s Centennial celebrations, the Collier County Museum will be hosting an opening of a time capsule on July 7th. Some people might find themselves asking, why on July 7th and not on May 8th, which is the date when Collier County was established?

Learn more

You’ve had such a long and successful career.
Well done! Enjoy your retirement!

Raymond Milum
Director of Recording & Accounting

Raymond has been a vital member of our office for 26 years. He originally joined the Collier County Clerk’s Office 1997 as an accountant and was later promoted to the position of accounting manager.

When the Recording Division and Accounting Division were merged to form one department, Raymond Milum was promoted to the position of Director of Recording and Accounting. In this new role, Raymond oversaw the agency’s budget and accounting functions as well as recording, protecting, and preserving official county records such as deeds, mortgages, declarations of domicile, and releases of liens. Under his leadership, this merger reduced overall costs and improved efficiency through the streamlining of similar functions. Raymond and recording staff were instrumental in bringing historical records to digital formats for easy public access.

Raymond has prepared the Clerk’s award-winning budget for over 18 years. Our sincerest gratitude and praise to Raymond for all the work he has provided in managing our Accounting and Recording Department. We are very lucky to have such a reliable and hard-working man in our team. We wish Raymond a happy and safe retirement!

Michael Smykowski
Senior Internal Auditor

Mike is one of our office’s most competent staff with over 30 years of finance/budget experience as a local government professional. He began his career as a Budget/Management Analyst with the City of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. When he transferred to Collier County, he initially served as finance professional supporting Everglades Restoration efforts and then promoted to Budget Director of the South Florida Water Management District with oversight of a $500M budget.

When he transferred to Collier County, he initially served as finance professional supporting Everglades Restoration efforts and then promoted to Budget Director of the South Florida Water Management District with oversight of a $500M budget. After coming to Collier County, Mike worked in the Collier County Budget Office for 20 years, ultimately serving as Budget Director with oversight of a $1.2B budget. He joined the Clerk’s Office for a brief period in 2015-2016 and returned in 2018 to become a key member of our office as the Senior Internal Auditor tasked with monitoring and examining contracts, expenditures, and agenda items.

For over 30 years, Michael Smykowski has been contributing to the success of Collier County and our residents. We are very grateful for the time he spent on our team. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors!

Thank you ENC&C!

Clerk Crystal K. Kinzel was honored to be awarded the East Naples Civic & Commerce (ENC&C) DIAMOND Award in recognition of her contributions to the future of East Naples.

Breakfast  with the
Lely Presbyterian Church

I was excited to have breakfast and speak about several evolving issues in Collier County and the services provided by our office with the members of the Lely Presbyterian Church. Thank you, Pastor Ed Brandt, for organizing this breakfast and discussion!

Would you like Clerk Kinzel to speak at one of your upcoming events?

Email cyndee.woolley@collierclerk.com to confirm a date!

Facebook

Website

Email

Collier County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller
3315 Tamiami Trail East, Suite 102
Naples, Florida 34112  USA
www.CollierClerk.com

Community Relations and Outreach
(239) 252-6879

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.


 

The Melo Minute

News and updates you don’t want to miss.


District 82 Updates

HB 543

On Monday House Speaker Paul Renner unveiled HB 543.

If it becomes a law, it will eliminate mandatory requirement for a concealed weapons license (CWL) in Florida.

To read the Bill, click here!

Health Care Bills

Last week, I filed the following bill:

HB 435 Newborn Hearing Screenings
This bill will allow all newborns to be tested for congenital cytomegalovirus,
a disease that can be bad for babies. The bill requires a hospital or other
state-licensed birthing facility to test newborns for congenital cytomegalovirus and for hearing loss before the newborn is 21 days old or before discharge, whichever occurs earlier.

For more information on HB 435, click here!

$50 Million Milestone

On January 25, Governor DeSantis announced that the Hometown Heroes housing assistance program had awarded more than $50 million in down payment and closing cost assistance to Florida’s hometown heroes.

The program offers assistance to law enforcement officers, teachers, healthcare workers, active military personnel and veterans, to buy their first home in Florida.

Since its June 2022 inception, the Hometown Heroes housing assistance program has helped approximately 3,500 local heroes buy their first house in the neighborhood they serve.

To read the press release, here!

For more information on the
Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program, click here!

“Moving Florida Forward”

On Monday, Governor DeSantis announced the “Moving Forward Florida” Infrastructure initiative.

To read the press release, click here!

If passed by the legislature, the $4 billion proposal would allow the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to
expediate twenty priority infrastructure projects.

For more information on all the FDOT projects, click here!

In Collier County two projects could benefit from this proposal.

One would be I-75 from Corkscrew Road to Golden Gate Parkway.

 

A single lane going from Corkscrew Road all the way to Golden Gate Parkway would be over 20 miles.
Even though it’s just a single lane, FDOT hopes that lane would
ease congestion a little bit.
That project would get $578 million and be completed by 2027.

The second would be the I-75 and Pine Ridge Road interchange.

The I-75 and Pine Ridge Road interchange would be done by 2024.

2023 Toll Relief Program

In case you missed it, starting January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023,
E-PASS customers or Florida interoperable toll pass customers with 35 or more toll transactions per transponder in a single month will automatically receive a 50% credit to their account under the 2023 Toll Relief Program (Senate Bill 6A) enacted by Governor DeSantis on December 15, 2022.

For more information, click here!

Swamp Buggy Races

Now

And then!

 

The 74th annual swamp buggy races winter classic took place last Sunday.

The first official swamp buggy race took place on November 12, 1949.

In the past, people typically utilized rafts and small boats to travel around the Naples area, especially in the Everglades with its murky bogs and dense trees.

The original swamp buggy was invented by Ed Frank from Naples;
it looked very different and was called “Tumble Bug”.
The state of Florida decided to use it in law enforcement in the 1930’s.

Many farmers and hunters decided to build their own and
started organizing races.

Now races are held 3 -4 times a year in Naples.

For more information, click here!

Rubber Duck, owned by Brian and Tami Langford won
the classic race on Sunday!

LaBelle
Traffic Change on February 6-7

Notice of Temporary Traffic Pattern Change on
US27/SR80 for Railroad Track Repairs.

South Central Florida Express contractor R.W. Summers Railroad Contractor, Inc. will be performing repairs to the railroad tracks on US27/SR80 just east of Lewis Blvd from Tuesday,
February 7, 2023 at 6am through Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 6pm.

US 27 south bound lanes will be closed, and traffic will be gradually diverted to a 2-lane road over the railroad tracks using the north bound lanes on US27.

Motorists traveling south on US27 will be able to make a right hand turn on to Lewis Blvd.

Motorists traveling north on Lewis Blvd will not be able to exit left on northbound US27. Motorists will only be permitted to make a right-hand turn heading east into Clewiston.

Motorists should expect delays and seek an alternate route if possible and use extra caution if traveling the work zone.

Residents or motorists with questions should contact R.W. Summers Railroad Contractor, Inc. at (863) 533-8107.

St Agnes Blue Mass

Last week I attended the annual Blue Mass at St. Agnes Parish in Naples, to honor and remember the service of current, past, and deceased law enforcement, fireman, and first responders who dedicate their life to the community’s safety and well-being. Governor Ron DeSantis and his wife were also in attendance.

Pace Center for Girls

The Pace Center for Girls, Collier at Immokalee is celebrating its 25th birthday!

In 1998, the Collier at Immokalee Pace Center for Girls opened its doors in Immokalee, Florida. Since then, Pace Collier in Immokalee has provided academic day programs and Pace Reach services to more than 2,000 girls in Collier County.

A modern kitchen and a gym are features of their unique facility.
Every day, two nutritious meals are served, and the girls can earn high school credits in a growing physical education program.

To learn more about the center, click here!

Clewiston – February 8-10

The Major League Fishing (MLF) will open the season at Lake Okeechobee,
next week, Feb. 8–10, in Clewiston, Florida.

For more information, Click here!

Save the Date
March 25

VETERANS
CORNER

Wounded Warriors of Collier County

Wounded Warriors of Collier County has been working since 2018 to address the homeless issues faced by local Veterans.

For additional information, click here!

If you wish to make a donation, click here!

Connect With Me!

Social Media

Follow our social media pages on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook
@LaurenMeloFL

Have Any Suggestions?

We are always ready to help!
If you have a question you would like us to address within The Melo Minute, send us an email:

Lauren.Melo@myfloridahouse.gov

It is an honor to serve as your State Representative. My team and I will continue to listen, work, and legislate on your behalf as we look to the future. God bless you all, and God bless the great state of Florida!

Representative Lauren Melo
Florida House District 82

Contact Us

Facebook‌ Twitter‌ Instagram‌

If you’re new to The Melo Minute and would like to subscribe, click here!

Florida House District 82 | 3299 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, FL 34112

RPOF Newsletter Update

Due to a transcription error, the highlighted wording was inadvertently left out of the article on the Governor’s Law and Order Legislation Proposal.

Governor DeSantis Announces Law and Order Legislation

On Thursday, Governor DeSantis announced his legislative proposal to maintain and further improve Florida’s 50-year record low crime rate, and build on previous pro-public safety initiatives.

The law and order legislative proposal includes:

Pushing back against the abolishing cash bail
Increasing penalties for drug-related crimes
Stepping up human smuggling interdictions
Strengthening punishment for child rapists
Preventing the early release of sex criminals
Making it more feasible to administer ultimate justice to those facing the death penalty
Governor DeSantis previously implemented hallmark anti-rioting legislation, the strongest law enforcement recruitment and support initiative in the nation, and a crackdown on opioid dealers and drug traffickers.

Read more about Governor DeSantis law and order proposal here.

Governor Ron DeSantis Proposes Teachers’ Bill of Rights

~ Unprecedented Legislation to Empower Educators, Protect Teachers from Overreaching School Unions, and Raise Teacher Pay ~

Earlier this week, Governor Ron DeSantis announced an unprecedented legislative proposal to create a Teachers’ Bill of Rights. The proposal will empower educators to be leaders in their classrooms, enact paycheck protection, reduce terms for school board members from twelve to eight years, and invest another $1 billion in teacher pay.

“This is a huge package to increase teacher pay, support teacher empowerment and protect teachers’ paychecks by ensuring they have control over their hard-earned salary.”

– Governor Ron DeSantis, January 23, 2023

The Governor’s plan includes:

Securing a $1 billion increase in teacher pay
Implementing a Teachers’ Bill of Rights
Enacting paycheck protection and other reforms to school unions
Term limiting school board members to 8 years

“We want more transparency into how school unions operate, and we are going to fight against school union haggling that holds teachers and their salary increases hostage. Partisan groups should not be given special privileges.”

– Governor Ron DeSantis, January 23, 2023

To learn more about the Teachers’ Bill of Rights, click here.

Read more about Governor DeSantis’ bold plan to empower educators here.

Governor DeSantis Announces Law and Order Legislation

On Thursday, Governor DeSantis announced his legislative proposal to maintain and further improve Florida’s 50-year record low crime rate, and build on previous pro-public safety initiatives.

The law and order legislative proposal includes:

Pushing back against the abolishing cash bail
Increasing penalties for drug-related crimes
Stepping up human smuggling interdictions
Strengthening punishment for child rapists
Preventing the early release of sex criminals
Making it more feasible to administer ultimate justice to those facing the death penalty
Governor DeSantis previously implemented hallmark anti-rioting legislation, the strongest law enforcement recruitment and support initiative in the nation, and a crackdown on opioid dealers and drug traffickers.

Read more about Governor DeSantis law and order proposal here.

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Additional Funding to Support Floridians Impacted by Hurricane Ian

“We are committed to cutting red tape and getting temporary housing trailers delivered to these communities as fast as possible so they can accelerate the rebuilding process. We will continue to fund programs and fill the gaps for Floridians as they recover after Hurricane Ian.”

– Governor Ron DeSantis, January 19, 2023

When Governor DeSantis took office, he directed the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) to do whatever it took to get recovery funds out the door faster to get communities back on their feet. As a result, in the 112 days since Hurricane Ian made landfall, FDEM has obligated more than $500 million in public assistance funding.

Governor DeSantis delivered again for Floridians who were impacted by Hurricane Ian.

To apply for state-led housing recovery programs, visit IanRecovery.fl.gov/unite.

Learn more about the funding to support the Governor’s directive here.

Florida’s Unemployment Rate Drops to Historic Low

On January 20, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida’s unemployment rate dropped to 2.5 percent in December 2022, a historic low last reached in 2006, demonstrating that Florida has continued to grow and recover after enduring two hurricanes in late 2022. Additionally, Florida’s statewide unemployment rate has been lower than the national rate for 25 consecutive months since December 2020.

“Florida continues to outpace the nation and withstand negative headwinds due to federal policy. I look forward to building off our success with record tax relief in the upcoming legislative session.”

–Governor Ron DeSantis, January 20, 2023

December 2022 marks the second month in 2022 that Florida reached a 2.5 percent unemployment rate. Also, population in the Sunshine State increased to 22.2 million in 2022, maintaining the state’s status as the third largest in the nation behind California and Texas. Florida is #1 for net migration in 2022, ranking the fastest growing state in the nation with a growth rate of 1.9 percent.

Floridians in search of work and new job opportunities are encouraged to turn to the CareerSource Florida network for help. Floridians seeking a career can find guidance on how to register with Employ Florida for free services to search listings of available local job openings, improve their employability skills, and pursue customized career training.

Learn more about Florida’s historic low unemployment and job data here.

Florida’s Hometown Heroes Program Reaches $50 Million Milestone

Governor DeSantis announced this week that the Hometown Heroes housing assistance program has awarded more than $50 million to nearly 3,500 individuals in down payment and housing assistance since June 2022 when the program launched. The Hometown Heroes program assists individuals such as law enforcement officers, educators, healthcare professionals, and active military personnel or veterans in purchasing their first home in Florida.

Read more here.

For more information on the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program, please visit www.floridahousing.org/hometownheroes.

SOCIAL MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS

“FACT: Florida requires the teaching of African American history. Anyone who says otherwise is lying to you.”
“Who would say that an important part of Black History is ‘queer theory’? Somebody pushing an agenda on our kids… They have stuff about intersectionality, abolishing prisons. That’s a political agenda.”
“It was great to meet sheriffs from across Florida and to share my appreciation for all they do for our state. The work of our sheriff departments in Florida has been vital to Florida’s crime rate being at a 50-year low and down nearly 10% year-over-year.”
“More fake news from media activists too lazy to read FL law. A teacher (or any adult) faces a felony if they knowingly distribute egregious material, such as images which depict sexual conduct, sexual battery, bestiality, or sadomasochistic abuse. Who could be against that?”


Kamala Harris, while giving a speech on abortion, leaves out the right to life when quoting the Declaration of Independence.
“Abolishing prisons is a radical political position. You’re free to take that [position] but how is it being taught as fact?…It’s not fair to say that abolishing prisons is what black people want…I think they want law & order like anyone else.”
“Education is about the pursuit of truth, not the imposition of ideology or the advancement of a political agenda.”
Over the last year, manufacturing jobs in Florida increased almost 7%. Great to be making more products here in Florida!

In The News

Florida’s Voice: DeSantis receives Union League of Philadelphia’s Medal of Honor, first bestowed on Lincoln
The Free Press: Florida Governor DeSantis Racks Up Another Win With AP Course Revision
Outkick: Wacko Leftist Lady Calls DeSantis ‘Authoritarian’ For Opposing Cell Phones in Classroom
Newsmax: Ron DeSantis fights back against CRT, queer theory in AP course curriculum
Twitter: Preserving Law and Order in Florida

REMEMBER: Like @FloridaGOP and retweet and share. The Republican message must be spread around the state, and you are integral to making that happen.

PAID FOR BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTY OF FLORIDA. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE. WWW.FLORIDA.GOP

RPOF Newsletter

 

Governor Ron DeSantis Unveils

Framework for Freedom Budget Proposal

On Wednesday, February 1, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his Framework for Freedom Budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2023–2024.The Framework for Freedom Budget totals $114.8 billion, with total reserves exceeding $15 billion.

The Framework for Freedom Budget builds on Florida’s successes as the state continues to outpace the nation in:

Building a robust economy;
Safeguarding students’, parents’ and teachers’ rights;
Restoring our environment; and
Maintaining healthy reserves to respond to natural disasters.
The Free State of Florida serves as a framework for states across the nation to follow.

“Through the Framework for Freedom Budget, we are establishing freedom first policies to benefit Florida workers and families and to provide a framework for future prosperity. Florida will fight against federal headwinds by putting forth sound fiscal policies that keep more money in the pockets of Floridians. Our budget proposal not only builds on the successes of the past four years, but ensures that Florida will continue to thrive.”

– Governor Ron DeSantis, February 1, 2023

To read the press release, click HERE.

To read the budget highlights, click HERE.

To read the Freedom First Budget FAQs, click HERE.

Governor DeSantis Elevates Civil Discourse and Intellectual Freedom in Higher Education

~ Legislative Proposal Takes a Stand Against Academic Discrimination and Indoctrination ~

On January 31, Governor Ron DeSantis announced legislation for the 2023 Session to further elevate civil discourse and intellectual freedom in higher education, further pushing back against the tactics of liberal elites who suppress free thought in the name of identity politics and indoctrination. Amongst its many provisions, the legislation will ensure Florida’s public universities and colleges are grounded in the history and philosophy of Western Civilization; prohibit DEI, CRT and other discriminatory programs and barriers to learning; and course correct universities’ missions to align education for citizenship of the constitutional republic and Florida’s existing and emerging workforce needs.

“In Florida, we will build off of our higher education reforms by aligning core curriculum to the values of liberty and the Western tradition, eliminating politicized bureaucracies like DEI, increasing the amount of research dollars for programs that will feed key industries with talented Florida students, and empowering presidents and boards of trustees to recruit and hire new faculty, including by dedicating record resources for faculty salaries.”

– Governor Ron DeSantis, January 31, 2023

To read more, click HERE.

For more information about the legislative proposal, click HERE.

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative

~ Investment will expedite projects to alleviate congestion and prioritize safety ~

Governor DeSantis has announced the Moving Florida Forward initiative to expedite transportation projects over the next four years. If passed by the legislature, this proposal would invest $4 billion of general revenue, redirect an average of $131 million annually to the State Transportation Work Program, and leverage additional funding over the next four years for a total of $7 billion to strengthen Florida’s transportation infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of people that rely on Florida’s roadways.

“This proposal will break through bureaucracy that often slows down infrastructure projects and allow FDOT to target projects that will ease congestion across the state. Expediting these projects will bring them to completion more than a decade ahead of schedule.”

– Governor Ron DeSantis, January 30, 2023

Through this record investment, the Florida Department of Transportation would expedite 20 priority infrastructure projects into the existing Work Program to:

Combat congestion;
Improve safety;
Ensure a more resilient transportation system to bolster current transportation needs; and Set the stage for future growth.
Read more about the Moving Florida Forward initiative here.

Projects included as part of the Moving Florida Forward Legislative Proposal are available at FDOT.gov/MovingFloridaForward.

SOCIAL MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS

“It’s only possible because we’ve been prudent with how we’ve managed the state’s fiscal policy, we’ve taxed lightly, we’ve spent conservatively, we’ve regulated very reasonably and had a really good climate for economic activity.”

@GovRonDeSantis is working to shield Floridians from the Biden Administration’s rampant inflation, disastrous economy and naked power grabs. This is possible thanks to Florida’s record budget surplus and the governor’s steady hand at the helm.

“In Florida, we will ensure that taxpayer-funded higher ed institutions focus on pursuing truth, promoting excellence, and providing students with a foundation so they can think for themselves, not to enforce ideological conformity and political activism.”

“People are sick of having an open border with no rule of law in this country. …whatever tools we have at our disposal are gonna be used.”

“If you’re performing these [sex-change] procedures on minors, you’re going to lose your medical license here in Florida.”

It’s getting hard to keep track of everything @RonDeSantisFL is delivering for Floridians.

LAW AND ORDER

Governor DeSantis took a principled stand for education. As per usual, Democrats feigned outraged and ignored THE FACTS.

In The News

Florida’s Voice: DeSantis proposes ‘Framework for Freedom’ budget bolstering education, infrastructure, tax breaks

Florida Politics: Governor’s budget headlines permanent tax relief for child necessities

Florida’s Voice: DeSantis wants lawmakers to ban doctors from performing sex changes on minors

Rebel News: DeSantis targets ‘diversity, equity, and inclusion’ funding in public universities

The Daily Wire: Black Florida Democrat Sides With Ron DeSantis on AP African American Studies Course: ‘I Think It’s Trash’

Florida’s Voice: Rapper Azealia Banks thanks DeSantis for ‘practical’ leadership after moving to Florida

The Florida Standard: Setting the record straight on the DeSantis administration’s Covid response.

Townhall: Fact Check: Unpacking the Left’s Ridiculous ‘Book Ban’ Meltdown in Florida

FOX News: WaPo fearmongers about ‘felony charges’ for teachers under DeSantis’ rules, later clarifies report
REMEMBER: Like @FloridaGOP and retweet and share. The Republican message must be spread around the state, and you are integral to making that happen.

PAID FOR BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTY OF FLORIDA. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE. WWW.FLORIDA.GOP

Senator Rick Scott’s Week in Review

Image

Image
Dear Fellow Floridian,

Today, I continued my ‘Make Washington Work Tour,’ stopping in Miami to discuss the impact skyrocketing inflation continues to have on Florida families.

For too long, Washington has rubber-stamped one spending bill after another with no concern about how recklessly spending your tax dollars hurt families and crushes opportunity and weakens the American dream.

Stopping reckless spending and getting our fiscal house in order is the ONLY way we will fix our economy and lower costs, and I am doing everything in my power to do just that. The answer is simple, really, just like you and your family do each month, Congress needs to make a budget and stick to it.

I have to warn you, over the next few months, you will hear the media, far left and Wall Street, sounding the alarm and demanding Congress borrow more money to spend without any accountability in an effort to avoid a doomsday scenario. They will say that anyone who is demanding accountability for your tax money is pushing America to default. Don’t believe these lies. The truth is, they want to raise the debt ceiling because it benefits THEM, ignoring that doing so without reining in spending HURTS YOU.

The status quo is sending us down a path of higher inflation, more debt and a rapid decay of opportunity for families hoping to live their American Dream. Now is the time to stop this from happening.

I am standing with Republicans in the House who are demanding changes now and this week urged my colleagues in the Senate do the same. America cannot afford to kick this can down the road a moment longer.

We must get something done that puts America on a fiscally sustainable path toward less debt, lower costs and more opportunity. Anyone who says otherwise is lying to the American people and neglecting the seriousness of the issues before us.

Read more HERE. For a full update on the state of our economy as of Tuesday, January 24, 2023, click HERE.

Sincerely,

 

Rick Scott

United States Senator

To be the first to find out about Senator Scott’s actions and statements, follow him on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

See more of what Senator Scott has been up to this week below.

Image
Sen. Rick Scott to Colleagues: Exactly Two Years Later, I Again Urge You to Reject Raising the Debt Ceiling Without Spending Reforms

Two years to the day since his first letter to them on the debt ceiling, Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to all of his Senate colleagues reiterating his years-long call for Congress to take significant action to address our nation’s $31 trillion debt crisis, stop the reckless spending that’s fueling inflation and hurting families, and take the opportunity to get America’s fiscal house in order as debt ceiling negotiations are underway. Since his initial letter, the federal debt has grown from $27 trillion to more than $31 trillion under total Democrat control – that’s more than $239,000 for every American household, up from $227,000 per household in January 2021.

Read the full letter HERE. Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Joins Sen. Mike Lee in Leading Letter to President Biden on Debt Ceiling Reform

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and 22 of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to President Biden expressing opposition to a debt ceiling hike without real structural spending reform that reduces deficit spending. The signatories expressed their intention to abide by the Senate Republican Conference policy that Senator Rick Scott proposed and was unanimously adopted in April 2021 which states that “any increase in the debt ceiling must be accompanied by cuts in federal spending of an equal or greater amount as the debt ceiling increase, or meaningful structural reform in spending, such as the Prevent Government Shutdown Act or the Full Faith and Credit Act.”

Read the full letter HERE. Read more HERE.

Amid Democrat Debt Crisis, Sen. Rick Scott Introduces Bills for Constitutional Amendments to Make Washington Work for American Families

Senator Rick Scott introduced proposed constitutional amendments as part of his Make Washington Work plan, which would impose term limits on members of Congress, create presidential line-item veto authority for appropriations bills, and require a super-majority vote of two-thirds of each House of Congress to approve any legislation creating new taxes or fees.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I’ve spent the past few weeks traveling the state to talk to Floridians and hear firsthand how they want THEIR government to work better for THEM. It’s clear that the dysfunctional status quo in Washington isn’t working for the American people. Our economy is in shambles under Joe Biden’s failed presidency, with a $31 TRILLION federal debt crisis that Biden and Democrats are determined to ignore, sticking their heads in the sand while families bear the consequences. We’ve all had ENOUGH. If we don’t change how Washington works, we’ll never get our fiscal house in order. It’s time for bold change to reinvent government and put American interests first, and I’m proud to again propose several Constitutional amendments to help make that happen. It is far past time for commonsense policies like term limits for members of Congress, a line-item veto for federal appropriations bills and requiring a 2/3 majority to approve any legislation creating new taxes or fees. It’s time to reimagine government, and these proposals are a great place to start.”

Read more HERE.

Senator Rick Scott Leads Colleagues in Reintroducing Full Faith and Credit Act to Address Federal Debt Crisis

Senator Rick Scott was joined by Senators Mike Braun, Cynthia Lummis, Katie Britt, Ron Johnson, Mike Lee, Kevin Cramer, Jim Risch, Marsha Blackburn and Ted Budd in reintroducing the Full Faith and Credit Act to ensure the federal government prioritizes funding for our military, veterans and seniors should the Biden Administration refuse to exercise its existing authority to prioritize these expenses and prevent default. Senator Scott has been demanding that Congress take action to address America’s $31 trillion federal debt and get the reckless spending that fuels it under control. Senator Scott continues to urge his colleagues to refuse to increase the debt ceiling without also enacting true spending reform.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The last two years have made crystal clear that the left, the big government crowd and even Wall Street have found a very clever way to keep America forever stuck in a vicious tax-and-spend cycle where spending always goes up, debt always goes up – and if you dare to disagree – they say you want a default. For them it is a false choice: embrace overspending and massive debt, or be the one who destroys the American economy. That is nonsense and a lie. While Democrats want to maintain the status quo where a default threat looms over Americans every time their reckless spending hits our debt ceiling, I’m fighting to eliminate the threat of default and protect the federal government’s core responsibilities to the American people even while the Biden administration refuses to acknowledge we are in a time of fiscal crisis.

“Since the Treasury refuses to do what it can and must, it is time to pass the Full Faith and Credit Act. This bill would require the government to fulfill critical payments to the debt to avoid default and full fiscal calamity while Democrats refuse to take accountability for their wasteful spending. It would require Congress to ACTUALLY address the debt ceiling crisis. It also ensures Americans depending on important programs like Social Security, Medicare, veteran benefits, as well as our service members, are not punished for Washington’s dysfunction. If Democrats reject this proposal, they are rejecting the protection of the full faith and credit of the United States and REJECTING a solution to the possibility of a default. It’s time for Washington to start living within its means, just like every family and business across the nation does, and preserve the American dream—this bill is a great start.”

Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Hosts Roundtable with Local Business Leaders in Miami on Reining in Reckless Federal Spending, Ending Raging Inflation

Senator Rick Scott hosted a roundtable with the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and local business leaders about the issues impacting them and discuss his actions to address the dangers of Washington’s out-of-control spending and the growing federal deficit, which are fueling a raging inflation crisis and hurting small businesses. As Congress debates the debt ceiling once again, and families in Florida and across America struggle to make ends meet with ever-rising prices, Senator Scott detailed his plans to rein in reckless spending, unleash American energy, boost the U.S. economy and drive down costs for the American people after two years of President Biden’s raging inflation crisis.

Senator Rick Scott said, “America is on a dangerous path of spending beyond our means and ignoring the consequences. For the last two years, we’ve seen the devastating impact of total Democrat control in Washington and I’ve heard from countless families in our state about the pain it’s causing them at home and in their businesses. Meanwhile, failed politicians in Congress and incompetent bureaucrats in the Biden administration are ignoring this suffering and doubled down on more dangerous policies, burdensome regulations and reckless spending. Today, business and community leaders in Miami made our message clear: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. Washington MUST do what every family and business does – live within our means – and start balancing the budget and paying down our unsustainable $31 TRILLION in debt. Reducing the debt, cutting taxes and helping businesses thrive is how we turn this economy around. That’s how we did it during my eight years as Governor of Florida, and I won’t stop fighting until we get it done in Washington.”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

Sen. Rick Scott and Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to End Automatic Raises for Members of Congress

Senators Rick Scott, Mike Braun and Josh Hawley introduced their bill to repeal automatic annual pay raises for members of Congress.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Our country is facing a serious debt crisis that must be addressed—we have hit our limit. America’s credit card is maxed out with $31 trillion worth of debt thanks to Washington’s obsession with spending. Each day that Congress fails to do its basic duties, like pass a budget, or allow the border crisis to go unchecked, Congress has FAILED the American people. In the real world, if you don’t do your job, you don’t get paid and you definitely don’t get a raise. Congress should be no different, and I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense bill.”

Read more HERE.

Sens. Rick Scott, Tim Scott & Colleagues Introduce National School Choice Week Resolution

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Representative John Moolenaar (MI-04) in introducing a resolution designating January 22 through January 28, 2023, as National School Choice Week.

In case you missed it, earlier this month, as part of his ‘Make Washington Work Tour,’ Senator Rick Scott hosted a roundtable discussion with higher education and school choice leaders, as well as parent advocates, to hear directly from them and discuss his actions to make higher education affordable for every family and ensure access to educational opportunities that fit students best by maximizing school choice for all K-12 students. Senator Scott discussed several of his proposals to bring Florida’s educational success nationwide, keep tuition affordable, and ensure parents, not the government, have a say in their child’s education.

Learn more about Senator Rick Scott’s fight for school choice HERE. Read more HERE.

Sens. Rick Scott and Cruz Introduce Updated Legislation Building on Vaccine Mandate Ban to Reinstate Service Members Fired Over COVID Vaccine

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Ted Cruz and 11 of their colleagues in introducing the Allowing Military Exemptions, Recognizing Individual Concerns About New Shots (AMERICANS) Act. The legislation builds off of the National Defense Authorization Act, which includes language to repeal the COVID-19 vaccine mandate in the Department of Defense and required a report on how DOD adjudicated service member’s requests for an exemption from the mandate on religious and other grounds.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The military’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate was disastrous for military readiness and needlessly destroyed the lives and careers of thousands of brave service members. Our brave men and women in uniform put their lives on the line to protect this great country, and the fact that their sincere religious concerns were not handled with fairness and impartiality is unacceptable. We must right these wrongs. I am proud to stand with my colleagues in introducing the AMERICANS Act to ensure this complete government overreach will never happen again.”

Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Reintroduces Bill to Get Americans Back to Work

To kick off the start of the 118th Congress, Senator Rick Scott reintroduced his Let’s Get to Work Act. This legislation encourages Americans who are able to work to return to the workforce by ending the current suspension of work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which was put in place during the pandemic, and expands these requirements to apply to all able-bodied adults receiving benefits who are under 60-years-old and do not have children under the age of six or care for incapacitated individuals. This legislation also establishes similar work requirements for individuals receiving federal benefits through the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Public Housing and Tenant-Based Rental Assistance programs. Read more about Senator Scott’s proposal in his Wall Street Journal op-ed HERE.

Senator Rick Scott said, “For too long, the Left has waged a war on work. That needs to end today. Policies put in place during the pandemic to pay people more to sit at home than go back to work are the radical Left’s latest and boldest move to boost government dependency. If we let it go on, it will ruin our country. That’s why, today, I am reintroducing my Let’s Get to Work Act. Americans know that a job is the very best thing for a family. A job creates income, independence and security – it’s the foundation of the American Dream. But living your dreams in this country takes work and I know that firsthand. I grew up poor, lived in public housing and watched my mom work hard every day just to put food on the table. I thank God that she never told me or my siblings to expect a handout and instilled in us the value of hard work. For our country to thrive, we need every American who can work to do so. I believe that any able-bodied, working-age adult who receives government benefits ought to work. This requirement means that those who receive benefits paid for with taxpayer dollars contribute to our economy.

“The American people want to work. People want to support themselves and their families, and be independent, not reliant on government programs. It’s time to get America back on track and leave the disastrous social and economic policies of Joe Biden and the radical leftists in power in the past where they belong. If we’re going to rescue America, it’s time to get back to work and I’ll be continuing my fight every day to get the Let’s Get to Work Act passed and signed into law.”

Read more HERE.

Senators Rick Scott and Kyrsten Sinema Reintroduce Legislation to Crack Down on Drug and Human Trafficking

Senators Rick Scott, Kyrsten Sinema and James Lankford reintroduced the bipartisan Extending Limits of U.S. Customs Waters Act to extend the customs waters territory of the United States from 12 to 24 nautical miles from the baselines of the United States. The Extending Limits of U.S. Customs Waters Act will allow U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) the jurisdiction necessary to keep American families safe from drug and human traffickers. Currently, the USCG has this authority under a Presidential Proclamation, this would codify it into law. With modern technology constantly changing, the 12 nautical mile baseline is no longer sufficient for USCG and CBP AMO to successfully interdict vessels attempting to enter the United States. In the last year alone, Customs and Border Protection reported a record 2.7 million encounters and hundreds of thousands of tons of seized narcotics. These drugs, like fentanyl, still flood into U.S. communities and have taken more than 100,000 American lives in this same timeframe. By doubling their area of operation, AMO, USCG and other federal authorities will be able to better meet this challenge and further prevent these traffickers from reaching our shores. Representative Michael Waltz introduced the companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Last week, Senator Scott received a briefing from the U.S. Coast Guard, Monroe County Sheriff, and Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations on the local response to the ongoing migrant crisis in the Florida Keys.

Senator Rick Scott said, “What I saw last week in the Florida Keys is unacceptable, our country is experiencing record-high levels of illegal immigration and this needs to stop. Regrettably, we now see Biden’s disastrous policies of our Southwest border spill over to Florida’s shores. The U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations keep families in Florida and around our nation safe by patrolling the beaches, shore waters and maritime territory, conducting search and rescue operations and intercepting vessels transporting illegal drugs and the victims of human trafficking. Our bill, the Extending U.S. Customs Waters Act, will extend the United States’ customs waters territory to help ensure our Coast Guard and CBP AMO has the jurisdiction and authority needed to cut down on drug and human trafficking so that families everywhere remain safe. I am thankful for the bipartisan support and I urge all my colleagues to support this important bill.”

Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

Sen. Rick Scott Leads Legislation to Stop Biden’s Mass Debt Cancellation at Expense of Taxpayers

Senator Rick Scott, joined by Senators Cynthia Lummis, Mike Braun, John Barrasso and Marsha Blackburn reintroduced legislation to prevent the Biden administration from enacting an overreaching, fiscally irresponsible blanket cancellation of student loans. The Debt Cancellation Accountability Act will require the U.S. Department of Education to obtain an express appropriation from Congress to pay for any federal student loan debts the Department proposes to waive, discharge, or otherwise reduce whenever granted to two or more borrowers in an amount greater than $1,000,000, rather than on a case-by-case basis.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Our nation is facing a staggering $31 trillion worth of debt and we have closed in on the debt ceiling, yet the Biden administration is still attempting to cancel millions of dollars in student loans. This is just another example of how far he will go to appease the radical left. The reality is, a blanket forgiveness of student loans only benefits a small percentage of the population at the expense of millions of other hardworking Americans. Those who have saved to pay for the education they chose to get, or have no debt at all because they chose a valuable career that doesn’t require a college degree, shouldn’t be on the hook to bail out folks that voluntarily took on debt and now want someone else to pay for it. That’s not how the real world works. Our legislation, the Debt Cancellation Accountability Act, will hold this administration accountable to American taxpayers by requiring Congressional approval for any mass cancellation of student debt. When I was governor of Florida, we focused on solving the real problem behind massive student loan debt: the rising cost of higher education. Biden should do the same.”

Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Leads “Read the Bill” Legislation Requiring Congress to Read Bills Before Voting on Them

Senators Rick Scott, Roger Marshall, Joni Ernst and Josh Hawley reintroduced their Read the Bill legislation. This common sense legislation requires members of Congress to have enough time to read bills before voting on them and certify that they have read every bill they cast a vote on. This legislation will also require that a CBO score be made available for the text at least 24 hours before a vote can occur.

Senator Rick Scott said, “One of the prime examples of Washington’s dysfunction is the blatant acceptance that members of Congress are handed a several thousand page bill that spends billions or trillions of taxpayer dollars that’s been negotiated in secret, then expected to vote on it hours later. This is exactly the kind of recklessness that led to Biden’s raging inflation, a sluggish economy and a $31 trillion federal debt crisis. IN ANY OTHER JOB, if you asked someone to approve a document without reading it, you’d never hire them again, but in Washington? It’s the standard. It’s a total failure to the American people – they expect and deserve more than that. This common sense bill simply requires that members of Congress have enough time to read the bills they’re voting on, so they know what’s in them and what it means for the families they represent. I applaud House Republicans’ efforts to pass a rule giving their members more time to review bills. This isn’t controversial, it’s common sense and far past time to put this into practice. I look forward to passing this bill with overwhelming and bipartisan support.”

Read more HERE.

Sens. Rick Scott, Mike Braun & Colleagues Reintroduce No Budget No Pay Act

Senators Rick Scott, Mike Braun, Joe Manchin, Rick Scott, Maggie Hassan, Shelley Moore Capito and Katie Britt reintroduced the bipartisan No Budget, No Pay Act. This bill simply states that Members of Congress must fulfill their basic job requirements and pass the annual budget resolutions and appropriations bills on time, or forgo their taxpayer-funded salaries.

Senator Rick Scott said, ““Our nation is over $31 trillion in debt after years of Washington failing the American people and shirking its responsibility of passing a real, balanced budget that prioritizes the needs of American families. Now more than ever, we need to bring fiscal sanity back to Washington, and that starts with holding Congress accountable to do one of its most basic duties: passing a budget. There is no reason members of Congress should be held to a different standard than any other American family or business. In the real world, if you don’t do your job, you don’t get paid. Our No Budget, No Pay bill simply requires Congress to pass an annual budget and meet appropriations bill deadlines, or forgo their taxpayer-funded salaries until the job is done.”

Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Leads Legislation to Stop Biden’s IRS Army, Block Democrat Tax Hikes on Small Businesses and Gig Workers

Senator Rick Scott, joined by Senators Ted Budd and Mike Braun, introduced the Blocking the Adverse and Dramatic Increased Reliance on Surveillance (BAD IRS) Activities Act, which would rescind the roughly $70 billion in IRS funding appropriated by the so-called Inflation Reduction Act for hiring 87,000 new IRS agents, and repeal the invasive and unnecessary reporting requirements on gig workers and small businesses put in place by the Democrats in their reckless American Rescue Plan.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Across America, families are struggling to keep up with Joe Biden’s raging inflation crisis, while skyrocketing interest rates are holding them back from everything from home ownership to starting a business. This is what happens when Washington spends decades recklessly spending taxpayer money and racking up $31 trillion of debt. In the face of these hardships for hardworking families, instead of cutting taxes and regulations to grow our economy and encourage job creation, Joe Biden and Democrats in Washington are hell bent on growing government and hiking your taxes to pay for it. There’s no denying their intentions and they even approved $70 BILLION for 87,000 new IRS agents to make sure they squeeze every penny possible out of American families to fund their radical agenda. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. The last thing folks need is more government in their lives and my BAD IRS Activities Act will stop Biden and the Democrats for using the IRS to terrorize the American people and raise your taxes. Increasing costs and regulations on already-struggling Americans is wrong and I won’t stop fighting to put an end to it.”

Read more HERE.

Sens. Rick Scott and Tommy Tuberville Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Protect Ag Industry from Foreign Interference

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Tommy Tuberville in leading a bicameral, bipartisan effort to protect America’s agricultural industry from improper foreign investment. The Foreign Adversary Risk Management (FARM) Act will bolster the U.S. agriculture industry’s role on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), the governmental body that oversees the vetting process of foreign investment and acquisition of American companies.

Senator Rick Scott said, “If COVID taught us one thing, it is that we must protect and prioritize American supply chains. Bad actors, like the Chinese Communist Party, pose serious threats to our national security and cannot be allowed to interfere with critical assets like food security. I am proud to stand with my colleagues in supporting this bill which will bring more oversight and scrutiny to foreign investment—a big win for the agricultural supply chain and food security.”

Read more HERE.

Sens. Rick Scott, Tom Cotton & Colleagues Introduce Bill to End China’s Permanent Normal Trade Status

Senator Rick Scott joined Senator Tom Cotton and their colleagues in introducing the China Trade Relations Act to strip China of its Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) status.

This legislation would require China to obtain Most Favored Nation (MFN) status through annual presidential approval, per the requirements of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment. The bill would also expand the Jackson-Vanik Amendment to include human rights and trade abuses as disqualifying factors for MFN status.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The CCP cares about one thing: undermining America. There is no reason why the United States should be helping a communist government’s trade operation through preferential treatment and ‘most-favored-nation’ status. That is absolutely absurd when they are working against us. It is time to put American interests first, not the CCP, and reverse this antiquated law.”

Read more HERE.

Sen. Rick Scott Issues Weekly Update on Biden’s Inflation Crisis

Following reporting of a 5% year-over-year increase in Personal Consumption Expenditures, Senator Rick Scott released a weekly update on his actions to address America’s debt crisis and rising inflation.

Since being elected to the U.S. Senate, Senator Scott has urged government accountability to the American taxpayer. Yesterday, two years to the day since his first letter to them on the debt ceiling, Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to all of his Senate colleagues reiterating his years-long call for Congress to take significant action to address our nation’s $31 trillion debt crisis, stop the reckless spending that’s fueling inflation and hurting families, and take the opportunity to get America’s fiscal house in order as debt ceiling negotiations are underway. Since his initial letter, the federal debt has grown from $27 trillion to more than $31 trillion under total Democrat control – that’s more than $239,000 for every American household, up from $227,000 per household in January 2021.

In his letter, Senator Scott writes:

We must choose to be innovative and stop passing the failures of past politicians along to the American people through tax increases or cuts in critical services. We can and must simultaneously protect Social Security and Medicare benefits while also making thoughtful choices that reduce unnecessary spending which provides inadequate returns to American taxpayers and increase revenues through job creation and the rebuilding of American manufacturing.

Solving America’s debt crisis and mitigating the devastating impacts of inflation require us to reimagine how the federal government operates. Rising to accept this challenge may be the most important work any of us do in our service to the American people.

Read the full letter HERE. Read more HERE. Lea más en español AQUÍ.

Image
Fox News: Sen. Rick Scott reacts to Biden accusing GOP of trying to cut Social Security

The Hill: Scott pushes plan to prioritize certain payments if debt limit bill stalls

Newsmax: Sen. Rick Scott to Newsmax: ‘They’re Trying to Shut Down Our Voices’

Newsmax: Sen. Rick Scott Calls on Governors to Return Federal Funds

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Wants to Extend Customs Waters to Help With Migrant Crisis

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Introduces Bill to End Automatic Annual Pay Raises for Congress

FGA: FGA Applauds Sen. Rick Scott for Introducing the “Let’s Get to Work Act” Requiring Work in Food Stamp and Housing Programs

Image
Senator Scott in Miami

This week, Senator Rick Scott visited Marathon to receive a briefing from U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Brendan McPherson, Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay, and Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Air and Marine Operations on the local response to the migrant crisis in the Florida Keys.

Image

Senator Scott’s Team in Pensacola

This week, Senator Scott’s team attended a Naturalization Ceremony where 47 immigrants were sworn in as U.S. citizens.

Image

Senator Scott’s Team at Herbert Hoover Dike

Senator Scott’s team also attended the Herbert Hoover Dike Rehabilitation Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Senator Scott was the first Governor in Florida history to secure state funds to help complete repairs for the federally-operated Herbert Hoover Dike. Under his leadership, the state of Florida committed $100 million to complete this critical project.

Image

Senator Scott’s Team in St. Cloud

Another stop on Senator Scott’s team made was the ribbon cutting ceremony of the new St. Cloud Hospital Cancer Care Institute.

Image

Senator Scott’s Team in Tallahassee

Additionally, Senator Scott’s team attended a Naturalization ceremony in Tallahassee.

Image

ImageImage
Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

 

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

TALLAHASSEE
111 N. Adams Street, Suite 208
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Phone: (850) 942-8415
WEST PALM BEACH
415 Clematis Street, Suite 201
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 514-0189
TAMPA
801 North Florida Avenue, Suite 421
Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 225-7040
KISSIMMEE
1 Courthouse Square, Suite 300
Kissimmee, FL 34741
Phone: (407) 586-7879
PENSACOLA
221 Palafox Place, Suite 420
Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: (850) 760-5151
MIAMI
901 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 505
Miami, FL 33134
Phone: (786) 501-7141
NAPLES
3299 Tamiami Trail East, #106
Naples, FL 34112
Phone: (239) 231-7890
JACKSONVILLE
400 West Bay Street, Suite 289
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 479-7227
ORLANDO
225 East Robinson Street, Suite 410
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 872-7161

WASHINGTON, D.C.
502 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-5274

Fax: (202) 228-4535

The Melo Minute


January 27, 2023
A Week in Review!
Issue No. 94

District 82 Updates

HB 1: School Choice

HB 1 just passed its first committee 13-4

 

 

 

Housing – SB 102 Filed

Excerpt from the Florida Senate website:

Housing; Citing this act as the “Live Local Act”; deleting the authority of local governments to adopt or maintain laws, ordinances, rules, or other measures that would have the effect of imposing controls on rents; providing an exemption from ad valorem taxation for land that meets certain criteria; authorizing local governments to adopt ordinances to provide an ad valorem tax exemption for portions of property used to provide affordable housing meeting certain requirements; suspending, for a specified period, the General Revenue Fund service charge on documentary stamp tax collections; authorizing the Governor, under the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, to approve state or local public infrastructure projects to facilitate the development or construction of affordable housing, etc. APPROPRIATION: $811,000,000

Effective Date: Except as otherwise expressly provided in this act and except for this section, which shall take effect upon becoming a law, this act shall take effect July 1, 2023

Last Action: 1/26/2023 Senate – Filed

To read senate bill 102, click here!

For the press release, click here!

Empower Educators

On Monday, Governor Ron DeSantis announced an unprecedented legislation to empower educators, protect teachers from overreaching school unions and raise teacher pay.

To read the proposal here!

Clewiston
Construction of the Herbert Hoover Dike Rehabilitation Completed

 

 

On Wednesday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District (USACE) celebrated the completion of the construction at a ribbon cutting event.

Crews have been bolstering the 143-mile-long Herbert Hoover Dike for more than ten years in order to safeguard people and property in the Lake Okeechobee area.

To read more, click here!

Everglades National Park #1

 

Roseate spoonbill

White pelicans

Reddish Egret

With more than three hundred bird species, the park has been recognized as the best birding park by Travel Lens.

It is the largest wilderness east of the Mississippi River and encompasses 1.5 million acres of a subtropical paradise that is exclusive to South Florida. The park is renowned for its abundance of birds, including bald eagles, wood storks, and roseate spoonbills.

Everglades National Park is enormous, and it is also home to the Florida panther, black bears, and Burmese pythons. The abundance of species is proof
that it is one of the most productive ecosystems on our continent.

Takeaways from the Collier County Commissioners’ meeting on Tuesday.

Affordable Housing

 

Collier County Commissioners have approved the project to build a maximum of 400 apartments near Palmetto Ridge High School.

10% will be reserved for affordable housing.
To qualify renters will need to earn from 80% to 100% of the county’s median income.

At the present time, qualified tenants at the 100% cutoff may anticipate paying around $2,200 per month
for a two-bedroom unit – $800 below current market rate.

Medical/Cannabis Dispensaries

The Collier County Commissioners have agreed
to ban the land amendment code to allow medical/cannabis dispensaries
in the same zoning districts as pharmacies, at their next meeting in February.

Collier County residents who require medicinal marijuana must go to a neighboring county, have it sent to them by mail, or visit the only dispensary on Marco Island.

National Florida Day

National Florida Day is observed on January 25 every year, despite the fact that Florida became the 27th US state on March 3, 1845.

La Florida, which translates to “land of flowers,” was the name given to Florida by the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León.

Florida, also referred to as the Sunshine State, is well-known for its pleasant, sunny climate and stunning scenery.

The Florida Everglades is the only region on earth
where crocodiles and alligators coexist.

You are never more than 60 miles from the ocean in Florida,
regardless of where you are.

St Agnes Blue Mass

On January 28, 2023, at 11:00am, St. Agnes Parish in Naples will hold its annual Blue Mass to honor and remember the service of current, past, and deceased law enforcement, fireman, and first responders who dedicate their life to the community’s safety and well-being.

VETERANS
CORNER

Take a Soldier Fishing

Naples Take A Soldier Fishing is a 501c3, non-profit organization that supports the brave men and women serving in the United States Armed Services. Each September, for over 10 years, a local group of fishing captains and anglers host over 150 active-duty combat soldiers and wounded combat veterans to fish both the inshore and offshore waters of beautiful Naples.

For additional information, click here!

Connect With Me!

Social Media

Follow our social media pages on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook
@LaurenMeloFL

Have Any Suggestions?

We are always ready to help!
If you have a question you would like us to address within The Melo Minute, send us an email:

Lauren.Melo@myfloridahouse.gov

It is an honor to serve as your State Representative. My team and I will continue to listen, work, and legislate on your behalf as we look to the future. God bless you all, and God bless the great state of Florida!

Representative Lauren Melo
Florida House District 82

Contact Us

Facebook‌ Twitter‌ Instagram‌

If you’re new to The Melo Minute and would like to subscribe, click here!

Florida House District 82 | 3299 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, FL 34112

January 2023

 

The holidays are over. The decorations and ornaments have been packed and put away until next year. It’s now time to get busy and work on legislation to benefit you, my constituents, and the citizens of the great state of Florida!

We started Interim Committee Week #4 yesterday and we are now getting a picture of what will transpire during the Legislative Session, which begins on March 7, 2023 in Tallahassee. Members have been assigned to specific committees and are working on bills that they wish to file.

As Chair of the Commerce Committee, I will be overseeing three subcommittees, including Energy, Communications & Cybersecurity; Insurance & Banking; and Regulatory Reform & Economic Development. In addition, I’m a member of the Appropriations Committee. I’m very excited about these two positions as I believe my limited government and limited spending platforms will contribute significantly to keep Florida free from government overreach and wasteful spending of taxpayers dollars.

Education is a top priority for Governor DeSantis and the Florida House. Last week, Speaker of the House, Paul Renner, filed HB1, which will ensure that Florida has the friendliest school choice available. Specifically, HB1 will completely reshape Florida’s education choice landscape and provide families with greater flexibility in determining how to educate their children. Read below for further information on HB1.

This week, Governor DeSantis announced an unprecedented legislative proposal to create a Teacher’s Bill of Rights to include paycheck protection, teacher empowerment and raising teachers’ pay. Read below for further information.

Representative Bob Rommel
District 81

HB 1 – Universal School Choice

Education is a top priority for Florida’s Governor DeSantis and House Speaker Paul Renner.

 

 

Teachers’ Bill of Rights

On Monday, Governor Ron DeSantis announced an unprecedented legislative proposal to create a Teacher’s Bill of Rights that empowers educators to be leaders in their classrooms, enact paycheck protection, reduce terms for school board members from twelve to eight years, and invest another $1 billion in teacher pay.

“This is a huge package to increase teacher pay, support teacher empowerment and protect teachers’ paychecks by ensuring they have control over their hard-earned salary,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “We want more transparency into how school unions operate, and we are going to fight against school union haggling that holds teachers and their salary increases hostage. Partisan groups should not be given special privileges.”

“From day one, Governor Ron DeSantis has made it his mission to raise teacher pay and elevate educators in the classroom — and he has succeeded,” said Education Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr. “Today’s announcement goes another step further to provide historic funding for teachers’ salaries and ensure they have control over their classrooms and paychecks.”

Paycheck Protection

The Governor’s proposal will create more accountability and transparency for public sector unions, including K-12 teacher unions and higher education unions. This proposal will require school unions to represent at least 60% of employees eligible for representation, an increase over the current 50% threshold, and allow state investigations into unions suspected of fraud, waste and abuse. Additionally, the proposal will require annual audits and financial disclosures for unions.

To further ensure that school boards are acting in the best interests of Florida’s teachers and students, this proposal reduces term limits for school board members from 12 years to 8 years and seeks to make school board elections a partisan election. A joint resolution for the 2023 Legislative Session has already been filed by Senator Gruters and Representative Roach to begin this process.

Other paycheck protections that would be enacted under this proposal include:

Prohibit any union representing public employees from having its dues and assessments deducted by the public employee’s employer.
Require employees to submit a form acknowledging that Florida is a right to work state and union participation is optional.
Require school unions to annually notify members of the cost of membership.
Prohibit the distribution of union materials at the workplace.
Union officials cannot be paid more than the highest paid union member.
Prohibit union work while on the clock for their taxpayer funded job.
Prohibit school board members and superintendents from accepting a personal or work-related benefit such as a secret “office account” from a school union.
Teacher Empowerment

Since the Governor took office, education has been at the forefront of policy making decisions. Florida law currently contains comprehensive legislation related to students’ rights and parents’ rights in education but does not have a clear compilation of teachers’ rights and authorities. This proposal will establish teacher empowerment provisions in law and will include these main provisions:

Establish a new process for individuals to notify the state of a violation of teachers’ rights and ensure that the Department of Education can investigate those claims.
Empower teachers to maintain safe classroom environments by creating a “stand your ground” classroom safety policy to protect teachers who are often judged unfairly for maintaining order and safety in their classrooms.
Clarify that teachers have the choice to join their local teachers union and will not face any repercussions if they opt not to join.
Providing civil remedies for teachers who are asked to violate Florida law and punished by their employers for standing up for what is right.
Raising Teacher Pay

Since 2020, the Governor has secured more than $2 billion in funding for teacher pay, the largest pay increase for teachers in Florida history. This funding has allowed Florida to achieve an average starting teacher salary of $48,000 for the 2022-2023 school year, meeting and exceeding Florida’s goal of an average starting teacher salary of $47,500. The Governor is proposing an additional $200 million to continue raising teacher pay, bringing the total to $1 billion for teacher pay in his recommended budget for the next year.

This $200 million increase over the current year’s budget will be provided to school districts with maximum flexibility to best fit the school district’s needs. School districts will be able to apply the funding to continue raising starting teacher salaries or to provide salary increases for veteran teachers and other eligible instructional personnel.

No eligible full-time classroom teacher will receive a base salary less than the minimum base salary established during the 2022-2023 school year.

Florida has no income tax and a balanced budget.
Let’s keep it that way!

Copyright © 2023 State Representative Bob Rommel, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in to see updates from State Representative Bob Rommel.

Our mailing address is:
State Representative Bob Rommel
3299 Tamiami Trl E Ste 304
Naples, FL 34112-5746

Congressional Hispanic Conference Announces Chairmen and Members for the 118th Congress

 

Congressional Hispanic Conference Announces Chairmen and Members for the 118th Congress

For Immediate Release
January 26, 2023
Contact:
Laura Hernandez (Diaz-Balart)
Sarah Young (Gonzales)

Congressional Hispanic Conference Announces Chairmen and Members for the 118th Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C.– The Congressional Hispanic Conference (CHC) announces Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-26) and Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) as the Co-Chairs for the 118th Congress. The CHC, founded in 2003, seeks to emphasize both national and international issues that have a significant impact on the Hispanic community in the United States. In addition, the Conference represents the diversity of thought that exists in the Hispanic community.

“I am thrilled to welcome the newest members of the Congressional Hispanic Conference,” said CHC Co-Chairman Congressman Mario Diaz Balart. “The rise in representation of minorities, including Hispanics, among Republicans in Congress proves that Americans are fed up with irresponsible Democrat policies that have led to skyrocketing inflation, record gas prices, and an unprecedented border crisis. As a conference, I look forward to working together to advance the priorities and values of our constituents and working on real solutions for the American people.”

“I am honored to serve as the Co-Chair for the Congressional Hispanic Conference this Congress,” said CHC Co-Chairman Congressman Tony Gonzales. “As the nation’s largest minority, Hispanics deserve a strong vote and voice in Congress. Hispanics play a vital role in our democracy and must be actively engaged in critical issues facing our nation. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Conference to promote the interests of Hispanic communities across the country and fighting for values like small government, economic opportunity, and individual liberty.”

 

Congressman David Valadao: “I’m proud to continue serving the Central Valley’s vibrant Hispanic community in Congress as part of the Congressional Hispanic Conference. Whether it’s working to reduce rising costs or fighting to reform our broken immigration system, the Congressional Hispanic Conference will continue to be a leading voice on issues impacting the Hispanic community.”

Congressman Carlos A. Giménez: “This year, the Congressional Hispanic Conference is larger than ever before with a historic number of Latino Republicans serving on Capitol Hill. As the only Cuban-born Member of the 118th Congress, I look forward to working with my friends Chairman Mario Diaz-Balart and Chairman Tony Gonzales to continue providing opportunities, delivering results, and expanding the American Dream for the diverse communities we serve.”

Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis: “From skyrocketing inflation, record high energy costs, and a border crisis that’s allowing deadly drugs to stream into our communities, Hispanic Americans are more engaged in politics and the legislative process than ever before. Hispanic Americans are not single-issue voters and are leaning more conservative. The Congressional Hispanic Conference helps us as conservative Hispanics in Congress make sure their voices are represented through common sense policies.”

Congresswoman Jenniffer González-Colón: “I am proud to be part of the growing group of Hispanic Republican Members serving in the 118th Congress. Hispanics have long been part of the U.S. and our role in building up this nation goes a long way. Republicans have always held their commitment to America and all the diversity that comes with it, including our community. I look forward to working with my Congressional Hispanic Conference colleagues to advance matters of importance to our country and all of those who are part of it.”

Congressman Juan Ciscomani: “I’m excited to join the Congressional Hispanic Conference. The mission to expand opportunity and secure the American Dream is one I can fully get behind. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance those values in Congress.”

Congresswoman Lori Chavez-DeRemer: “I’m excited to join the Congressional Hispanic Conference. Together, we will be a strong and unified voice for Hispanic communities in Oregon and across the country. My ancestors immigrated to the U.S. legally so that my grandmother could have a better life. As a member of this conference, I’ll fight to ensure future generations are afforded the same opportunities that my family had. From lowering the cost of goods to addressing the humanitarian crisis at the border, we have our work cut out for us – and I’m ready to work with my colleagues to find solutions.”

Congressional Hispanic Conference members include Representatives Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-26), Tony Gonzales (TX-23), David Valadao (CA-21), Carlos Giménez (FL-28), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27), Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), Anthony D’Esposito (NY-04), John Duarte (CA-13), Alex Mooney (WV-02), Brian Mast (FL-18), Mike Garcia (CA-25), Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), George Santos (NY-03), Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon (PR-AL), and James Moylan (R-Guam-00).

 

From left to right: Representatives Nicole Malliotakis, Carlos A. Gimenez, Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon, Mario Diaz-Balart, Tony Gonzales, Juan Ciscomani, Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Maria Elvira Salazar, David Valadao.