District 3 Newsletter – Commissioner Burt Saunders

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Welcome to District 3
On May 25, at our regularly scheduled commission meeting, the County Commission voted to enter into a long-term lease with Club Corp for the development of a 12-hole golf course and family entertainment and dining facility at the old Golden Gate golf course.

County residents will be entitled to a 40 percent reduction on all greens fees and will have equal access to all tee times. This will provide truly affordable golf to our county residents.

The County Commission purchased the existing Golden Gate Golf course and has endeavored to re-establish public golf on a course to be redesigned for the benefit of all Collier County golfing enthusiasts looking for a great course at an affordable price. This is the culmination of decades of efforts to bring affordable golf to Collier County as part of the County’s park and recreation program.

Collier County will own and control the course. Club Corp will develop a family entertainment and dining venue as part of the golf course development and will pay concession fees equal to 3 percent of gross revenues from all operations to the County.

Thank you for helping to make Collier County a great place to live, work and play.

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Collier County FY 21/22 Budget
Important Dates to Remember

June 24, 2021 Budget Workshop, 9:00 am, BCC Chambers (Televised)
July 13, 2021 Adoption of Tentative Maximum FY 2022 Millage Rates (Televised)
September 9, 2021 Public Hearing Date, 5:05 pm, BCC Chambers (Televised)
September 23, 2021 Public Hearing Date, 5:05 pm, BCC Chambers (Televised)

Board of County Commission Meetings
Second and fourth Tuesdays of each month – The meetings begin at 9:00 a.m. and are broadcast live with closed captioning on Collier Television channel 97/98 and via live streaming at www.colliercountyfl.gov/ctv.

Individuals who would wish to participate in person must complete and submit a speaker form prior to the beginning of the discussion about the item. Individuals who would like to participate remotely must complete and submit the online speaker registration form prior to the beginning of the discussion about the item. The agenda will be available on the County website at http://colliercountyfl.iqm2.com/Citizens/default.aspx.
Logan Blvd. Extension Truck Use Update
On May 25, at the regularly scheduled commission meeting, the County Commission approved a Resolution prohibiting the operation of large trucks and commercial vehicles with a rated load-carrying capacity in excess of five (5) tons from through movement on Logan Blvd. extension between Immokalee Road and the Lee County line. Signs have been posted and will be immediately enforced.
FDOT Southwest Connect I-75 South Corridor Master Plan

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), District One, is hosting a Virtual Public Outreach Meeting for the Southwest Connect™ Interstate 75 (I-75) South Corridor Master Plan from south of SR 951 (Collier Boulevard) to north of SR 78 (Bayshore Road) in Collier and Lee counties, Florida. This workshop will be held online and is available on the project website, www.SWFLInterstates.com/South-Corridor-VPM.

The meeting materials will be available for viewing for 10 days, from June 8 – 18, 2021. In addition, FDOT is hosting a LIVE Question and Answer Event ONLINE from 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 8, 2021. Please visit the project website listed above to register for the virtual Q&A event. If you would like to call into the question and answer session, please dial +1 (562) 247-8422 and enter access code 937-518-510. Attendees that use the call-in option will be able to listen only and will not be able to type in questions during the meeting.

I-75 Southwest Connect™ (South Corridor) is a capacity, safety and operational improvement project on I-75 in Collier and Lee Counties. This project is in the Planning and Feasibility Phase. FDOT will analyze the interstate system’s existing transportation challenges. The findings of the analysis, as well as recommendations to enhance safety and mobility, are documented in a Master Plan. The planned improvements identified in the Master Plan may include widening, managed lanes, modifying interchanges, and/or evaluating new interchanges. The Master Plan will also include public outreach, such as this, which will serve as input in the identification and prioritization of projects to move forward into the Project Development Process. This long-range approach provides a regional perspective to identify the areas where future demand is predicted. This Master Plan will serve as a guide to allow FDOT to focus future efforts and funding toward the most critical areas first.

If you or anyone you know does not have internet access and would like copies of this information, or if you have further questions about the project, please contact the I-75 Project Manager, Ms. Nicole Harris, P.E., at (863) 519-2335 or via e-mail at nicole.harris@dot.state.fl.us. You may also visit the project website at: https://www.swflinterstates.com/i75-south-corridor.

Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Board Meeting – 9 am Friday, June 11, 2021
The Collier Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Board will meet at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, June 11, 2021. This will be a Hybrid Remote meeting and it will be held in the Board of County Commissioners Chambers, third floor, Collier County Government Center, 3299 Tamiami Trail E., Naples, Florida. Some members may be appearing remotely, with staff present in person. One week prior to the meeting, the MPO agenda will be posted on the MPO’s website at colliermpo.org. To access the agenda, go to the calendar and select the meeting date.

Individuals who would like to participate in person must complete and submit a speaker form prior to the beginning of the discussion about the item. Individuals who would like to participate remotely must complete and submit the online speaker registration form prior to the beginning of the discussion about the item. Individuals who would like to participate remotely, should register at MPO Board Meeting Registration.

One or more members of the Collier County Board of County Commissioners, Naples City Council, Marco Island City Council, Everglades City Council and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) may be present and may participate at the meeting. The subject matter of this meeting may be an item for discussion and action at a future meeting of those boards, councils or agencies.

The Board of County Commissioners has authorized a burn ban in Collier County effective immediately.

Per Collier County Ordinance 2009-23, as Amended, the County Manager may recommend an immediate ban of outdoor burning and outdoor ignition sources during extreme drought conditions. The ban prohibits open burning, which is any outdoor fire or open combustion of material that produces visible emissions, of trash and yard waste, which includes vegetative matter resulting from landscaping and yard maintenance operations.

The decision came after a meeting between the Collier County Bureau of Emergency Services, Florida Forest Service, Collier County Fire Chiefs’ Association and the Collier County Sheriff’s Office. The group jointly identified a need to have a burning ban become effective immediately after certain environmental conditions were met, including lack of rainfall in May.

The ban includes all unincorporated Collier County, but exempts all commercial agricultural burning, lawful controlled industrial or commercial environments that are part of the manufacturing or some type of assembly process, and those burning activities regulated by the Florida Forest Service. This ban presently has no impact on the retail sales of fireworks, although the discharge of fireworks, sparklers and incendiary devices is prohibited.

In addition, outdoor grills, stoves, cookers and smokers may be used in the preparation of food if the cooking fire is controlled and attended to. All outdoor cooking areas shall be free of burnable materials within an area having a circumference of three feet beyond the nearest edge of the cooking fire.

Violation of the order, if it is found to cause irreparable or irreversible damage, can be up to $15,000. The ban will remain in effect until further notice. For more information, call 311 or (239) 252-8999.
Collier County Assistance Program

CCAP is a financial assistance program available to Collier County residents and small business owners affected by COVID-19. Applications are now being accepted through the fall or until funds are depleted. The program benefits households (individuals and families), households with senior members (60 years or older), landlords, small businesses, and temporary quarantine situations.

Household Assistance
Full-time Collier County residents behind on mortgage, rent or utility payments due to the economic challenges presented by COVID-19 may qualify for assistance. Past due payments must have accumulated as the result of COVID-19 and must be documented. Please see the frequently asked questions (FAQ) page for details about eligibility and documentation requirements.

Aid is available for past due bills going back (arrearage) to March 13, 2020. Applicants must have been current on their rent, mortgage and utility accounts as of March 13, 2020. Arrearage is available up to a one time maximum of $10,000 payment for rent, mortgage and utility relief. However, applicants will also be screened for benefits through the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program, which does not have a cap on funds and only assists with rent payments through fall 2021. Doing this will allow the county to help more residents. If applicants do not qualify for aid through the CCAP, they may qualify through the ERA and vice versa.

Business Assistance
Small businesses, nonprofits and agricultural operations may qualify for assistance with past due water and electric bills and repayment of the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL). Your business(es) must be in Collier County, have a business tax license, hold a Sunbiz registration (when applicable), and employ 100 or less full-time equivalent (FTE) staff. Applicants should select small business during the application process.

Business owners that own more than one business, with each business having its own employer identification number (EIN), and meets all other eligibility requirements, may apply for assistance for each business. An application must be submitted for each business. For past due water and electric bill assistance, the utility accounts must be in the name of each business. Each qualified application may receive a one-time grant of up to $25,000 toward EIDL repayment and utility assistance. Since this is a grant and not a loan, it does not need to be paid back.

Contact Information
The Assistance Center is located at 13245 Tamiami Trail East, Suite 102, in Naples. To schedule an in-person appointment, please call (239) 450-2114 or email CCAPinfo@colliercountyfl.gov.

When Emergencies Happen in Collier County, We Can’t Alert You if We Can’t Reach You
Collier County encourages all residents to sign up for Alert Collier, the County’s new mass notification system. When you sign up with Alert Collier you can enter up to five addresses within the County boundaries that you would like to receive emergency alerts about. Enter your home, work, relative, school or any other address that’s important to you.

Should an alert be issued for that location, you will receive a notification.
You can sign up with your cell phone to receive calls and/or text messages, your email address(es), home phone, business phone and hearing impaired device. Collier County encourages you to also download the Everbridge Public Safety app (free in the iOS, Android and Windows app stores), this app will allow you to see all public notifications issued across the State and Country by other Everbridge users. Live in Lee county but work in another County? No problem you can receive their emergency alerts just by having the app installed.

So, create a contact on your phone for Alert Collier: the caller ID our alerts will come from is 239-252-8000, and the short code our texts will come from is 89361 and 87844. Save Alert Collier as a contact today!

SIGN UP HERE

H O T L I N E
866-779-6121
The best sources for clear information on the pandemic are our state health department or the CDC. The Florida hotline above is staffed 24/7.

Vaccine Report
(updated daily)

Florida Department of Health

Florida COVID-19 Dashboard
(updated daily at mid-day; contains county-specific data)

Centers for Disease Control COVID-19 site

World Health Organization
Copyright © 2021 Collier County Commission District 3, All rights reserved.
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Our mailing address is:
Collier County Commission District 3
3299 Tamiami Trl E Ste 303
Naples, FL 34112-5746

RPOF Newsletter – Chairman Joe Gruters

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Chairman’s Message

Fighting back against Big Tech

The legal guardrails are now officially installed around Big Tech in a major step toward ensuring that Floridians of any worldview have well-protected speech rights on social media. Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 7072, which will hold Big Tech accountable by driving transparency and safeguarding Floridians’ ability to access and participate in online platforms.

“This session, we took action to ensure that ‘We the People’ — real Floridians across the Sunshine State — are guaranteed protection against the Silicon Valley elites,” Governor DeSantis said. “Many in our state have experienced censorship and other tyrannical behavior firsthand in Cuba and Venezuela. If Big Tech censors enforce rules inconsistently, to discriminate in favor of the dominant Silicon Valley ideology, they will now be held accountable.”

The major points of the new buttressing that include:

All Floridians treated unfairly by Big Tech platforms will have the right to sue companies that violate this law — and win monetary damages. This reform safeguards the rights of every Floridian by requiring social media companies to be transparent about their content moderation practices and give users proper notice of changes to those policies, which prevents Big Tech bureaucrats from “moving the goalposts” to silence viewpoints they don’t like.
The Attorney General of Florida can bring legal action against technology companies that violate this law, under Florida’s Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act. If social media platforms are found to have violated antitrust law, they will be restricted from contracting with any public entity. That “antitrust violator” blacklist imposes real consequences for Big Tech oligopolies’ bottom line.
Big Tech is prohibited from de-platforming Floridian political candidates. The Florida Election Commission will impose fines of $250,000 per day on any social media company that de-platforms any candidate for statewide office, and $25,000 per day for de-platforming candidates for non-statewide offices. Any Floridian can block any candidate they don’t want to hear from, but is not for Big Tech to decide.
You can read the full text of Senate Bill 7072 here: https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?FileName=_s7072er.DOCX&DocumentType=Bill&BillNumber=7072&Session=2021

Big Tech made clear the need for this law over and over. But the brash activists in Silicon Valley took down a Youtube video of Governor DeSantis’ March roundtable with premier national doctors and epidemiologists from Harvard and Stanford — right in the middle of the session debating this bill. The pretend white-coat censors simply will not allow dissenting opinions to stand and see themselves as all powerful. So Florida acted.

Strong Republican leadership across the board stood in defence of all Floridians’ free speech.

“I’m pleased to see Florida setting the example by doing everything in our power to stop the abuses that are possible when big tech goes unchecked. People have a right to express opposing views,” said Senate President Wilton Simpson.

“Social media platforms have morphed into the town square,” said Speaker Chris Sprowls. “If our democracy is going to survive, we must stand up to these technological oligarchs and hold them accountable.”

Read more here: https://flgov.com/2021/05/24/governor-ron-desantis-signs-bill-to-stop-the-censorship-of-floridians-by-big-tech/

Legislation

Teachers, school principals and superintendents in Baker County, Sarasota County and Okaloosa County joined Governor DeSantis for his announcement of $765 million in funding to support Florida’s teachers. These investments include $550 million to continue elevating minimum teacher salaries, as well as $215 million to provide all of Florida’s eligible public school principals and teachers with $1,000 disaster relief payments.

The Florida Legislature and Governor DeSantis worked hard to continue funding support for Florida’s teachers through the Florida Leads budget. Over the past year, minimum pay for Florida’s teachers increased by an average of $6,000 — from $40,000 to $46,000. Overall, 68 of Florida’s 74 school districts (92 percent) now have a starting salary of $40,000 or higher.

“While most other states locked down their schools, Florida followed the science and opened our schools for in-person instruction, five days a week,” Governor DeSantis said. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of our teachers and school leaders Florida succeeded where so many other states failed. I can’t thank them enough for their hard work and dedication during this school year and these bonuses are a small way to say thank you on behalf of our state.”

Read more: https://flgov.com/2021/05/26/governor-ron-desantis-announces-more-than-765-million-in-record-funding-for-teachers/

Florida Update

Florida’s economy continues to surge forward under strong, principled, conservative leadership, leading America out of the pandemic response-induced downturn.

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity announced Florida now has recorded 12 consecutive months of job growth, gaining 18,800 private sector jobs in the month of April. From April 2020 to April 2021, Florida has gained a total of 795,800 private sector jobs. Florida’s unemployment rate of 4.8 percent remains well below the national average of 6.1 percent, even as its labor force in April 2021 increased by 73,000 over the month, reaching its highest point since the beginning of the pandemic. So more than 70,000 people entered the labor force looking for jobs in April and virtually all of them found jobs.

“Through Governor DeSantis’ leadership, our state has remained open for business, leading to an unemployment rate consistently below the national average,” said Dane Eagle, Secretary of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. “Our state now has a jobs surplus, and businesses are in need of Floridians to continue bolstering our great workforce.”

Read more here: https://floridajobs.org/news-center/DEO-Press/2021/05/21/florida-department-of-economic-opportunity-announces-twelve-consecutive-months-of-job-growth-gaining-nearly-19-000-private-sector-jobs-in-april

––––

The Republican Party of Florida has launched FloridaDems.com to defeat attempts to give Nancy Pelosi more puppets in service to a Socialist agenda for America.

RPOF’s Executive Director Helen Aguirre-Ferre issued the following statement:

“It really doesn’t matter which one of Nancy Pelosi’s Puppets Florida Democrats nominate, because each and every one will put America and Florida last as they ram through Pelosi’s dangerous socialist agenda.

“We have seen this firsthand — from being weak on China or failing to address the crisis at the border to siding with the radical left to weaken law enforcement, these Democrats will never put Floridians first.

“While Pelosi’s Puppets raise money from Woke Corporations, Big Tech and Wall Street, Florida Republicans and U.S. Senator Marco Rubio will continue to fight for Florida families by advancing common sense conservative policies.

“Senator Marco Rubio has been a champion for Florida and has been laser focused on policies that continue to improve the lives of all Floridians. The Republican Party of Florida is proud to support Senator Rubio who has shown true leadership fighting against misguided policies offered by the left.”

Visit the website here: FloridaDems.com.

More Media Myths Knocked Down

The Miami Herald published a report this week that misrepresented the Public Health Accreditation Board evaluation of the Florida Department of Health collection, analysis, and reporting of the state’s COVID-19 data.

Several reporters and commentators shared the article on social media. In doing so, they spread disinformation by twisting the facts to discredit the hard work of thousands of public servants keeping Floridians safe, healthy, and informed throughout the pandemic.

MEDIA MYTH: The Miami Herald report misled the public by falsely implying that DOH is in danger of losing its accreditation.

THE FACTS: The Herald interviewed Eric Toner, a scholar in Maryland who is not even listed as a representative of PHAB. Toner could not comment on DOH specifically since he has no direct knowledge of the situation, but he made a general statement: “If an accredited health department is told by an accreditation board that they need to do something better…the next step would be probation or losing accreditation.”

However, no official representative of PHAB gave any indication that DOH was ever in any danger of losing accreditation. In fact, PHAB president Paul Kuehnert praised the department’s COVID-19 surveillance and reporting: “Based on what we have seen with Florida, the professionals at the Department of Health are doing a really excellent job.”

These are Kuehnert’s own words, quoted in the very same Miami Herald article, but not until the 19th paragraph. The Miami Herald’s decision to “bury the lede” in this story is irresponsible at best and negligent at worst.

MEDIA MYTH: PHAB criticized DOH for “failing to maintain accurate records regarding COVID-19 infection rates in schools,” issued incomplete data, and neglected Miami-Dade and Broward schools. (Mary Ellen Klas, Miami Herald)

THE FACTS: In response to a complaint from a political activist in Broward County, PHAB conducted an exhaustive six-month investigation of DOH and found “nothing concerning about the department’s data collection or analysis.” This is a direct quote from the Miami Herald article, once again buried under paragraphs of innuendo and speculation.

Klas’ comment is a glaring example of public health disinformation given undue credibility by association with a mainstream media outlet. Klas quoted the complaint, but misattributed the quote, falsely framing it as an excerpt from the accreditation board’s evaluation of DOH. When Klas was informed of her mistake, she refused to issue a correction, instead publishing more social media commentary to push the same false narrative.

Read many more myth knockdowns: https://flgov.com/2021/05/25/public-health-accreditation-board-florida-department-of-health-doing-a-really-excellent-job-with-covid-19-data-collection-analysis/

ICYMI

Congressman Byron Donalds did a terrific job defending election integrity and conservative values in a fairly hostile interview in the New York Times. We are blessed to have a lot of strong Republicans who know who to forcefully defend the principles that made America great.

Read it here: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/22/us/politics/byron-donalds-trump.html

Social Media Highlights

REMEMBER: @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 LAUNCHES FLORIDADEMS.COM

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RPOF LAUNCHES FLORIDADEMS.COM
Pelosi’s Puppets Fight to Advance Socialist Agenda

Today, the Republican Party of Florida (RPOF) launched FloridaDems.com highlighting how the Florida Democrats running for the U.S. Senate are dangerous liberals who would be nothing more than a rubber stamp for Nancy Pelosi’s socialist agenda.

RPOF’s Executive Director Helen Aguirre-Ferre issued the following statement:

Tallahassee, FL –“It really doesn’t matter which one of Nancy Pelosi’s Puppets Florida Democrats nominate, because each and every one will put America and Florida last as they ram through Pelosi’s dangerous socialist agenda.

“We have seen this firsthand — from being weak on China or failing to address the crisis at the border to siding with the radical left to weaken law enforcement, these Democrats will never put Floridians first.

“While Pelosi’s Puppets raise money from Woke Corporations, Big Tech and Wall Street, Florida Republicans and U.S. Senator Marco Rubio will continue to fight for Florida families by advancing common sense conservative policies.

“Senator Marco Rubio has been a champion for Florida and has been laser focused on policies that continue to improve the lives of all Floridians. The Republican Party of Florida is proud to support Senator Rubio who has shown true leadership fighting against misguided policies offered by the left.”

Visit Website

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

Rep. Donalds Co-Sponsors Legislation to Combat Critical Race Theory

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Rep. Donalds Co-Sponsors Legislation to Combat Critical Race Theory

WASHINGTON—Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) joined several of his Republican House colleagues in co-sponsoring two pieces of legislation introduced by Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT). Both pieces of legislation address the Biden Administration’s proposal to fund education programs informed by Critical Race Theory (CRT).

The paired legislation, which includes a bill that would restrict the teaching of Critical Race Theory within federal institutions and a resolution that highlights the dangers of teaching CRT in U.S. schools, underlines the systemic racism and damaging philosophy within this prejudicial ideological tool.

Upon introduction, Rep. Donalds said:

“Critical Race Theory is a warped ideology that seeks to divide Americans and relitigate the sins of the past by pinning White Americans against Black Americans, which is counterproductive and doesn’t belong anywhere near our children.

“America’s history regarding race is troublesome and deserves the proper attention, but we cannot allow for the degradation of American values and culture through so-called equity training. In the 21st century, we must teach and learn from our history and swear never to repeat it, but we cannot use our past to divide us, which Critical Race Theory will undoubtedly do.”

Rep. Owens said:

“I grew up attending segregated schools in the Jim Crow South during a time when people were treated differently based on the color of their skin. Critical Race Theory preserves this way of thinking and undermines civil rights, constitutionally guaranteed equal protection before the law, and U.S. institutions at large. This is the United States of America, and no one should ever be subjected to the discrimination that our laws so clearly prohibit.”

RSC Chairman Banks said:

“Teaching students to be ashamed of our country and to judge each other based on their race is wrong and divisive. It’s terrifying how quickly the left abandoned its commitment to equal treatment under the law. The White House must stop promoting discrimination based on skin color. I am proud to support Rep. Burgess Owens in his important efforts today.”

Co-Sponsors of the Bill include:

Reschenthaler (PA-14), Buck (CO-04), Tiffany (WI-07), Harshbarger (TN-01), Banks (IN-03), Grothman (WI-06), Cloud (TX-27), Good (VA-05), Kelly (PA-16), Brooks (AL-05), Allen (GA-12), Issa (CA-50), Rice (SC-07), Roy (TX-21), Babin (TX-36), Moolenaar (MI-04), Jackson (TX-13), Fallon (TX-04), Joyce (OH-14), Scott (GA-08), Cawthorn (NC-11), Boebert (CO-03), Perry (PA-10), Rouzer (NC-07), Green (TN-07), Bishop (NC-09), Mast (FL-18), Stewart (UT-02), Donalds (FL-19), Herrell (NM-02), and Jacobs (NY-27).

Co-Sponsors of the Resolution include:

Reschenthaler (PA-14), Buck (CO-04), Tiffany (WI-07), Harshbarger (TN-01), Banks (IN-03), Grothman (WI-06), Cloud (TX-27), Good (VA-05), Kelly (PA-16), Brooks (AL-05), Allen (GA-12), Issa (CA-50), Rice (SC-07), Roy (TX-21), Babin (TX-36), Moolenaar (MI-04), Jackson (TX-13), Fallon (TX-04), Joyce (OH-14), Scott (GA-08), Cawthorn (NC-11), Boebert (CO-03), Perry (PA-10), Rouzer (NC-07), Bishop (NC-09), Mast (FL-18), Stewart (UT-02), Donalds (FL-19), Jacobs (NY-27), and Harris (MD-01).

EXCLUSIVE: Rep. Burgess Owens To Introduce Legislation Combating Biden’s Rollback Of Trump-Era Critical Race Theory Ban

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Office Locations

WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE
523 Cannon HOB
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-2536
NAPLES DISTRICT OFFICE
3299 Tamiami Trail East
Suite 105
Naples, FL 34112
LEE COUNTY OFFICE
1039 SE 9th Ave
Suite 308
Cape Coral, FL 33990

Legislative Update – Funding Secured for District 28 – Kathleen C. Passidomo

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One of our most important responsibilities is to develop and pass a balanced state budget that funds the priorities of our state for the year ahead.
Some of the key priorities funded in this year’s budget are:
· State highway projects;
· Bonuses to first responders, teachers and childcare providers;
· Reimbursements to health care employees and emergency responders for childcare expenses incurred during the pandemic;
· Funding to modernize Florida’s antiquated reemployment assistance program, CONNECT;
· Ensuring affordable housing, reducing wastewater and mitigating sea-level rise;
· Expediting water quality improvements and supporting environmental restoration.
On a more local level, I am proud to report that I helped secure $21 million in state funding for District 28, which includes Collier and Hendry counties and part of Lee County. Projects funded include:
· Auditory Oral Intervention for Children with Hearing Loss Program — $875,000
· Bonita Springs Home Elevation and Buyout Program — $300,000
· C-21 Bridge/Lake Okeechobee Access, City of Clewiston — $3,652,000
· Collier County Golden Gate Senior Center — $250,000
· Collier County Lake Park Boulevard Capital Improvements and Water Quality Flow-way — $250,000
· David Lawrence Center Wraparound Collier Program — $279,112
· Everglades City Wastewater Treatment Facility Replacement — $4,340,160
· Fort Myers Salvation Army Co-Occurring Residential Treatment Program — $300,000
· Hendry County Airglades Airport & Clewiston Utilities Connection — $1,000,000
· Hendry County Port LaBelle Utility System Gravity Sewer Repairs — $200,000
· LaBelle Water Transmission Line — $1,298,931
· Lighthouse for the Blind, Collier County — $90,000
· Marco Island San Marco Road Tide Leveling/Canal Flushing — $370,000
· Naples Botanical Garden — $750,000
· Naples Senior Center at JFCS — $75,000
This newsletter summarizes the many projects in our region that will receive funding during the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on July 1. First, Governor Ron DeSantis must sign the budget before it can be implemented.
Next week, Senators and Representatives head back to Tallahassee for a special session on gaming. On April 23, 2021, Governor DeSantis and the Seminole Tribe of Florida executed a historic new 30-year gaming Compact that restores the state’s relationship with the Tribe, preserves and offers new opportunities for Florida’s legacy pari-mutuel industry, and provides substantial new revenues for the State of Florida.
During the special session, we will evaluate legislation proposed to comprehensively address gaming issues, ratify the 2021 Compact, update Florida law to better reflect the current gaming climate, combat illegal gambling through a new Gaming Control Commission and offer additional games allowable under Florida’s Constitution.
The proposed gaming legislation seeks to balance the requirements of federal Indian gaming law, the complex pari-mutuel regulatory structure established over decades, and the need to better enforce restrictions against illegal gaming, all while adhering to the new constitutional restrictions on casino-style gaming.

Auditory Oral Intervention for Children with Hearing Loss Receives $875,000
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, listen and talk, most especially those with hearing loss. The funding of the Auditory Intervention for Children with Hearing Loss Program is crucial for children with hearing loss to receive access to care.
$875,000 will help facilitate hearing screenings and evaluations. The program will also provide listening and spoken language services to children with hearing loss from their birth to the age of three.
The program serves multiple counties and reaches the underserved and rural areas of our region to increase access to audiology services and screenings for children.

Bonita Springs Home Elevation & Buy-Out Program
The budget invests $300,000 to assist in elevating or purchasing homes in Bonita Springs that currently suffer from frequent flooding.
With this funding, the City of Bonita Springs will be able to move families to another area of the city that does not flood. The project will also provide an opportunity to elevate homes thus allowing families and residents to remain safely in their homes. It will also reduce the need for additional funds for the National Flood Insurance Program.

C-21 Bridge will Grant Hendry County Access to Lake Okeechobee
An investment of $3,652,000 will help replace a bridge connection inside the Herbert Hoover Dike to the Lake Okeechobee recreational area. This bridge will provide access for Hendry County law enforcement, emergency vehicles, citizen’s vehicles, bicycles and pedestrian traffic, to Lake Okeechobee.
The existing bridge was lost when the South Florida Water Management Districts removed and relocated the S-169 Structure as part of ongoing repairs and upgrades to the canal system and Herbert Hoover Dike.
The new bridge will meet all up-to-date Florida Department of Transportation and Army Corps of Engineers safety standards.

Collier County Golden Gate Senior Center Construction & Expansion
The provides $250,000 to expand the Collier County Senior Center. The funding will support the design, construction and expansion of the current Golden Gate Senior Center to better serve community seniors.
The expansion will provide additional space for programming and would provide the community access to aid after natural disasters and other large-scale community emergencies.

Collier County Lake Park Boulevard Capital Improvements and Water Quality Flow-way
The Lake Park Boulevard Capital Improvement and Water Quality Flow-way project is the first critical step in a multimillion-dollar series of infrastructure improvement projects.
The $250,000 allocated for the project will support the conversion of septic to sewer, the rehabilitation of the stormwater system, roadway improvements and other related site improvements to promote functionality, health and safety.
The surrounding region includes the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve; therefore. it is critical we safeguard our natural resources and residents.

David Lawrence Center (DLC) Wraparound Collier Program Support
The David Lawrence Center (DLC) Wraparound Collier Program (WRAP) will receive $279,112 in funding for the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year.
The program provides specialty mental health services to hundreds of high-risk uninsured children and adolescents in Collier County who have severe to moderate problems in functioning across settings and for whom funding for an appropriate level of care does not otherwise exist.

Everglades City Wastewater Treatment Facility Replacement
As you may be aware, Everglades City’s existing wastewater treatment facility is in very poor condition. That is why I allocated $4,340,160 to fund the replacement of all systems and update the facility to be in compliance with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
The facility is located in an environmentally sensitive region that reached the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, the Everglades National Park and the Big Cypress National Preserve. The funding will allow for the existing facility to be demolished and a new facility to be constructed.
I am committed to protecting our water quality while safeguarding Florida’s natural resources and landscape in a practical and effective manner.

Fort Myers Salvation Army Co-Occurring Residential Treatment Program
To help those seeking rehabilitation and recovery in Southwest Florida, the Fort Myers Salvation Army Residential Treatment Program will receive $300,000 to support its efforts.
The program provides treatment for mental health and substance abuse.
The program hosts 12 felony probation beds to serve approximately 22 persons annually. The cost of the program is $75/day per patient.
Patients will receive medical services including an initial assessment and diagnosis by a psychiatrist and ongoing medication management.
A Mental Health Clinician (licensed or registered intern) will offer weekly in-person counseling, mental health therapy groups, medication and blood work services, and more for successful substance abuse treatment.

Connecting Airglades Airport Industrial Park with Clewiston Utilities will Create Economic Opportunities
The Airglades Airport Industrial Park is located west of Clewiston in Hendry County, on the south side of US 27. The park is shovel-ready for new tenants; however, the development of the property has been hindered by a lack of wastewater capacity.
Increasing wastewater capacity is critical in order to receive additional tenants at Airglades and create much-needed jobs for the region. That is why I requested an investment of $1,000,000 to support the construction, engineering inspection services and the installation of a wastewater force main from Airglades to the city of Clewiston’s existing wastewater treatment plant and utilities.
This project would complete the last piece of a multi-year, multi-agency, multi-million dollar investment and provide economic development opportunities to the surrounding area. The completion of this project is critical in order to sustain the economic environment in Hendry County as a whole and for the entire region.

Funding to Repair Hendry County Port LaBelle Utility System
Port LaBelle is one of the fastest-growing areas in Hendry County. In the past two years, more than 343 homes have been built. With the influx of residents and due to its aging infrastructure, the Port LaBelle Utility System wastewater collection system is in need of repairs.
Funding of $250,000 will help to update and replace the gravity mains and pipes. This project will reduce the infiltration of groundwater, the exfiltration of wastewater, and increase the plant’s capacity.
The project would provide both economic and environmental improvements for Hendry and Glades County.

LaBelle Water Transmission Line
The $1,298,931 funding for the LaBelle Water Transmission Loop project provides a greater degree of safety and consistency for the City of LaBelle water plant and its residents.
The current transmission pipeline serves approximately 7,500 residents. The project will mitigate any water line damage from ongoing construction projects, including the expansion of SR293. This will ultimately help prevent any water shortages for the residents of LaBelle.

Lighthouse of Collier Receives $90,000 to Support Blind Residents
The Lighthouse of Collier provides serves 14,000 area residents by fostering independence and enhancing the quality of life for the blind, visually impaired and their caregivers.
An allocation of $90,000 will help serve 30 or more clients with blindness or vision loss who want to maintain independence in their homes. Clients will benefit from receiving 1:1 instruction in ADL’s (Activities of Daily Living) from a Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT), Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) or OT with Low Vision Rehabilitation certification, to enable independent living.

Marco Island Improvements with Tide Leveling & Canal Flushing
We secured $270,000 in funding for the San Marco Road Tide Leveling and Canal Flushing Improvement.
The project will install two (2) 48-inch diameter pipe culverts as well as stormwater inlet structures between two (2) canal basins under the San Marco roadway and through existing drainage easements.
Tide leveling and canal flushing are an integral part of the City of Marco Island’s Master Plan for Stormwater pollution control.

Naples Botanical Gardens Receive Funding for Horticulture Campus
Naples Botanical Garden will receive $750,000 in funding to develop a 75,000-square-foot Horticulture Campus.
This campus will enable the gardens to better meet Southwest Florida’s environmental challenges while contributing to global conservation efforts and enhancing its 170-acre property.
This is another win for Southwest Florida as the gardens are a major tourism draw for Collier County.

Funding for the Naples Senior Center at Jewish Family and Community Services
The Naples Senior Center, formerly known as the Jewish Family and Community Services of Naples, manages the only dementia-respite support program in Collier and Southern Lee County.
This cutting-edge, innovative support program provides the highest standard of care to clients with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). It is designed for seniors who have been diagnosed with early to mid-stage ADRD.
This session, I worked to ensure the Naples Senior Center received $75,000 in appropriations to help support the program.
The program provides a holistic approach to socialization and wellness in everyday living.

Governor DeSantis Implements Ban on Vaccine Passports
On Tuesday, May 4, Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 2006, sponsored by Sen. Danny Burgess. This legislation prohibits the use of vaccine passports and gives the Governor the authority to invalidate COVID-19 local emergency orders.
His leadership on this issue gives Floridians the freedom to go about their lives without some of the unnecessary burdens that local governments have been forcing on residents and businesses.
If you still choose to wear a mask, you are welcome to!

Support Given to Florida’s First Responders with New Bonus Allocation
On Wednesday, May 5, the Governor announced first responders can expect to receive $1,000 bonuses this year. This includes police officers, firefighters and paramedics.
We are grateful for the protection and support our first responders have provided during the COVID-19 pandemic, and they deserve our support.

Voter Reform Bill Signed into Florida Statute Last Week To Protect Floridians
On Thursday, May 6, Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 90, Election Administration, by Senator Dennis Baxley into law.
This legislation aims to ensure every eligible and authentic vote cast in the state of Florida is properly counted. It establishes protections against voter fraud, increases the security of mail-in and drop-off ballots, and improves transparency around the voter process.
Our democracy is only as strong as the integrity of our elections. As our world evolves, new threats emerge and new technologies become available, it is important to modernize and enhance our voting processes to protect the integrity of each vote and that of the election’s outcome.

Governor Signs Transformational Legislation to Expand School Choice Options
On Tuesday, May 11, Governor DeSantis signed House Bill 7045 that will provide more education opportunities for children from low-income families and students with unique abilities. The bill expands eligibility for low-income students, and prioritizes military, foster, and adopted students.
“This legislation creates historical levels of flexibility in both schooling and educational services for millions of low-income families and families of students with unique abilities,” said Governor DeSantis. “As we have seen for more than 20 years now, these scholarship programs have elevated so many children and families. I am thankful to Senator Manny Diaz and Representatives Randy Fine and Jason Fischer for sponsoring this inclusive legislation to ensure that all of Florida’s students have the best chance for success.”

Florida Invests in Resiliency
On Wednesday, May 12, Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1954. This comprehensive legislation will ensure a coordinated approach to Florida’s coastal and inland resiliency. The new program will enhance Florida’s efforts to protect our inland waterways, coastlines, shores and coral reefs, which serve as invaluable natural defenses against sea level rise.
Additionally, this bill and the 2021-2022 budget are part of the largest investment in the state’s history – over $640 million – to support efforts to ensure state and local communities are prepared to deal with the impacts of sea level rise, intensified storms and flooding.   
· $12.5 million for the Resilient Coastlines Initiative for resilience projects and coral reef protection.   
· $29 million for establishment and planning efforts of the Resilient Florida Grant Program.   
· $500 million in federal funding for implementation of statewide resilience projects through the Statewide Flooding and Sea Level Rise Resilience Plan.
· $100 million for Resilient Florida Grant Program projects in partnership with local communities, beginning in 2022.   

Governor Signs 15 Additional Bills into Florida Statute Friday, Including CONNECT Website Updates
Last Friday, the Governor signed 15 bills into law including House Bill 1463, Department of Economic Opportunity, by Representative Chip LaMarca.
This legislation will modernize Florida’s unemployment system, specifically the CONNECT website system that suffered major issues during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic last year.
The measure will make the application process for programs much easier and streamlined for those looking to recover and rebuild beyond the public health emergency.
Other bills signed by Governor DeSantis include:
· SB 530 – Nonopioid Alternatives
· SB 602 – Business Organizations
· SB 1080 – Tobacco and Nicotine Products
· SB 1884 – Preemption of Firearms and Ammunition Regulation
· SB 1890 – Campaign Financing
· HB 35 – Legal Notices
· HB 67 – Public Defender Duties
· HB 327 – Public Records
· HB 353 – Bicycle Operation Regulations
· HB 363 – Privileged Communications Made to Crime Stoppers Organizations
· HB 369 – Construction Contracting Regulation Exemption
· HB 379 – Public Records
· HB 1239 – Broadband Internet Infrastructure
· HB 7037 – Review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act
Other bills signed this week are:
· SB 148 – Allowing To-Go Sales of Alcoholic Beverages

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

Naples Office:
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Naples, FL 34112
239-417-6205
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LaBelle, FL 33935
863-674-7122
Tallahassee Office:
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From the desk of Chairman Joe Gruters

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Governor DeSantis signs groundbreaking school choice law

Florida’s nation-leading school choice legislation is now law, and the parents of millions of disadvantaged Florida children will have new opportunities to improve their children’s education and hopes for better lives. Governor DeSantis signed House Bill 7045 Tuesday, providing historic levels of educational opportunities through expanded eligibility for low-income students, and prioritizing military, foster, and adopted students.

“This legislation creates historical levels of flexibility in both schooling and educational services for millions of low-income families and families of students with unique abilities,” Governor DeSantis said.

“By giving parents increased options to choose the education that best meets their child’s needs, we are giving those students unlimited opportunity,” said Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran.

Highlights of the ground-breaking law include:

Increasing individual scholarship amounts to 100% of the state funding allocated to the child’s education, and expanding access to Florida’s scholarship programs for more families.
Expanding the Family Empowerment Scholarship, lifting children in foster care, out-of-home care, or whose household income level does not exceed 185% of the federal poverty level.
Giving military families the ability to maximize their school choice options.
Expanding use of scholarship funds to cover the full spectrum of a student’s educational expenses, such as tuition and fees, and transportation to another public school, along with providing for special needs of students.
Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/05/11/governor-ron-desantis-signs-transformational-legislation-to-expand-school-choice-options/

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While Democrats challenge our enhanced election integrity laws, we are looking forward to 2022, gearing up with aggressive plans for voter registration and absentee ballot registration. Covid-related issues allowed Democrats to surpass us in absentee voting registration in 2020, and those will still be in effect for the 2022 cycle.

But we are organizing now to counter their advantage in that area by working with our county Republican Executive Committees and grassroots at the local level. More will be coming on this, including how everyone can get involved.

Legislation

Governor DeSantis signed into law the largest investment in Florida’s history to prepare communities for rising sea levels and flooding. Senate Bill 1954 creates a coordinated approach to Florida’s coastal and inland resiliency and enhances efforts to protect inland waterways, coastlines, shores and coral reefs, which serve as invaluable natural defenses against sea level rise.

This bill and the 2021-2022 budget are part of the largest investment in the state’s history — more than $640 million — ensuring state and local communities are prepared to deal with the impacts of sea level rise, intensified storms and flooding.   

The budget portion includes:

$12.5 million for resilience projects and coral reef protection.
$500 million in federal funding to implement statewide resilience projects through the Statewide Flooding and Sea Level Rise Resilience Plan.
$100 million for Resilient Florida Grant Program projects in partnership with local communities, beginning in 2022.   
“Since day one, the resiliency of our state has been a top priority for my administration,” Governor DeSantis said.

Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2021/05/12/governor-ron-desantis-signs-bill-to-further-strengthen-floridas-resiliency-efforts/

Florida Update

Governor DeSantis urged the U.S. Army Corp to reduce harmful discharges to northern estuaries in its new Lake Okeechobee system operating manual. The Governor was joined by Florida DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein and the South Florida Water Management District Board of Directors on a visit to Lake Okeechobee and the Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie rivers. The visit came as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers finalizes a new water control manual.

The Governor urged the U.S. Army Corps to improve lake management to create more beneficial releases and send more water south during Florida’s dry season, and allow flexibility to avoid harmful discharges in Florida’s northern estuaries.

“In Florida, we are doing our part to expedite Everglades restoration projects and restore the flow of water south from Lake Okeechobee. Under my administration, we have expedited the EAA Reservoir Project, begun constructing the Stormwater Treatment Area 12 months ahead of schedule, and invested over $2 billion in water quality and Everglades funding,” Governor DeSantis said.

Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2021/05/10/governor-ron-desantis-urges-u-s-army-corps-to-reduce-harmful-discharges-to-northern-estuaries-in-new-lake-okeechobee-system-operating-manual/

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Governor DeSantis is honoring Florida’s law enforcement officers this week by lighting the Florida Historic Capitol blue during National Police Week. National Police Week recognizes those who protect our nation and the State of Florida, and those who have made the supreme sacrifice with their lives to protect the freedom of others and preserve law and order in our communities.

“In Florida, we stand behind our police officers who protect our freedoms and defend our society – putting themselves in harm’s way to keep our people safe and our businesses secure,” Governor DeSantis said. “This week we honor them for always responding to those in need.”

Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2021/05/09/governor-ron-desantis-honors-floridas-police-force-during-national-police-week/

Watch here: https://spacecoastdaily.com/2021/05/watch-gov-ron-desantis-honors-floridas-police-force-during-national-police-week

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Governor DeSantis announced that more than $111 million has been awarded to 22 communities impacted by Hurricane Michael. The Rebuild Florida General Infrastructure Repair Program is designed to provide funding for local governments to strategically rebuild and harden infrastructure in order to prevent or reduce losses from future disasters.

“Hurricane Michael caused catastrophic damage to Northwest Florida and we remain one-hundred percent committed to helping these communities rebuild and recover stronger than before,” Governor DeSantis said.

Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2021/05/06/governor-ron-desantis-announces-111-million-in-infrastructure-awards-for-communities-impacted-by-hurricane-michael/

Governor Ron DeSantis

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING

Governor DeSantis continues to receive praise from Floridians for his management through the pandemic. Florida parents, nurses, small business owners, educators, hospitality workers and cruisers are applauding the Governor’s leadership.

You can read them here:

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Florida Parents, Nurses, Small Business Owners, Educators, Hospitality Workers, and Cruisers Applaud Governor Ron DeSantis’ Policies

Social Media Highlights

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

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Weekly Wrap-Up with Congressman Byron Donalds May 10, 2021

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Weekly Wrap-Up with
Congressman Byron Donalds
May 10, 2021

The House of Representatives remained in recess this past week, affording me ample time at home in Southwest Florida to meet with you, the hardworking constituents of Florida’s 19th Congressional District, as well as local leaders and business owners.

However, Congress being in recess doesn’t stop my Democrat colleagues from their usual power-grabbing tactics. Rather than work in a bi-partisan manner, Senator Chuck Schumer and the Democrats try to sneak massive immigration reform into a budget reconciliation. This overhaul circumvents the legislative process and attempts to push through radical immigration policies without debate or congressional oversight and grant citizenship to millions of illegal immigrants.

In April, the number of unaccompanied migrant minor children in the U.S. reached an all-time high of over 22,000- what this country needs is sensible immigration reform, not a free pass for all that fails to address the actual issue. Unfortunately, this kind of so-called leadership from Chuck Schumer and the Left is what happens when radical progressives get drunk with power. Rest assured, I am doing everything in my power to stop this drastic and potentially detrimental policy from becoming law.

The recent April jobs report that was just released proved true what we already knew: what incentive do the American people have to return to work when the federal government and the Biden Administration are mailing them free checks? Despite millions of job openings, unemployment numbers increased up to 6.1 percent. While this news is far from surprising, it’s unsettling, to say the least. The Biden Administration’s insistence on raising taxes, cutting jobs, supporting continued lockdowns- are all crushing the American Worker. It’s time to cut the bureaucratic red tape, open up our country, and get the American people back to work.

While in Southwest Florida this past week, I was happy to travel throughout FL-19, meeting with constituents and providing them a Congressional update. For a recap on the legislation that I just introduced to uphold IP protection from the threats of our communist adversaries, information on upcoming town halls, and more, keep reading!

Legislative Updates

Since the mainstream media and Congressional Democrats refuse to conduct necessary oversight on John Kerry’s dealings with the Iranian regime, my GOP colleagues and I will. Every day we waste is another day John Kerry is compromising our national security.

Read my full statement regarding John Kerry below:

John Kerry Statement

Last week, along with the support of the Republican Study Committee Chairman Representative Jim Banks (R-IN), I introduced a bill aimed at preventing the Biden Administration from senselessly giving away America’s intellectual property rights to countries to China.

Read more about this critical legislation on Fox Business.

My full statement below:

IP bill

As the Republican Party evaluates who will chair the Republican Conference in Congress, I am choosing the direction of new leadership that embodies the future of the party, not the past; I am choosing to support Representative Elise Stefanik (R-NY)
as the next Chair of the House Republican Conference.

My full statement of support is below.
Elise Statement

In the District

Last week, I addressed members of the Cape Coral City Council to discuss the needs of the city, provide a Congressional update, and discuss potential opportunities for federal and local partnerships in order to best serve the people of Southwest Florida.

I was happy to speak to the members of the Republican Club of Southwest Florida in Bonita Springs, FL last week. We were fortunate enough to have a packed house as we discussed pro-life legislation in Congress, the Biden Border Crisis, and Florida leading the nation in election integrity.

Community Engagement in Southwest Florida

I’m excited to announce that I am hosting my first Tele-Town Hall tonight, May 10th at 7 PM EST. This Tele-Town Hall serves as an opportunity for constituents to receive a Congressional update, ask questions, and to share the most pressing needs of Southwest Florida communities. For more information, click the link below:

Congressman Donalds Announces Tele-Town Hall

On May 24th, 2021 I am hosting a Veterans Town Hall. This event serves as an opportunity for Southwest Florida veterans to address their concerns, receive a Congressional update, and to learn about available federal resources. The Town Hall will be held at the American Legion Post 38, in Fort Myers, Florida. For event details, visit my website, by clicking here.

Reminder: Throughout the month of May, in celebration of Small Business Month, my office will be recognizing small businesses in Florida’s 19th Congressional District that are committed to serving the community and giving back. Click the link below to nominate a small business in Southwest Florida for a Congressional Recognition:

Office of Congressman Byron Donalds Small Business Nominations

In the Media

I had the opportunity to join Pete Hegseth on ‘Fox News Primetime’ last week to discuss the Left’s newest tactic of bringing race into policy debates. Watch the fiery interview below:

Fox News: Rep. Donalds Discusses Race in America

I joined Newsmax host Grant Stinchfield last week to discuss Attorney General Merrick Garland, the violent history of Antifa, and the Biden Administration using government agencies like the FBI for political gain. Watch the interview below:

ICYMI: I joined Pete Hegseth, Jedediah Bila, and Lawrence Jones on ‘Fox & Friends’ this past weekend to discuss the long-term economical impacts of rising unemployment and the current state of policing in America. Click below to watch the interview!

Rep. Donalds: We Can’t Rely on the Government to Put Money into Everyone’s Pocket

Serving the hardworking men and women of Florida’s 19th Congressional District is my distinct honor and privilege. It’s time Washington works for our community’s values, and every day I will always strive to ensure your government is working for you.

Sincerely,

Byron Donalds Signature
Byron Donalds
Member of Congress

Rick Scott’s Week in Review

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This week, Senator Rick Scott introduced the Data and Algorithm Transparency Agreement (DATA) Act to increase transparency by requiring big tech platforms, like Facebook, Snapchat and Twitter, to receive express consent to use Americans’ personal information. The DATA Act also provides Americans with legal recourse against these companies if they believe their right to privacy has been violated.

Big tech companies capitalize on algorithms to manipulate users, pushing them toward content the algorithm believes they would like or be interested in. These companies are also gathering massive amounts of personal data – and users have little to no control over how their data is used. That’s alarming and unacceptable, and Senator Scott’s DATA Act finally gives Americans a say in what happens with their personal information.

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

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Sen. Rick Scott: Biden Administration Shows Dangerous Weakness on Communist China

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent interview on 60 Minutes. During the interview, in response to CBS’s Norah O’Donnell asking Secretary Blinken, “If [the genocide in] Xinjiang isn’t a redline with China, then what is?” he responded that the U.S. does not have “the luxury of not dealing with China.”

Senator Rick Scott said, “The United States is in a New Cold War with Communist China and it’s time that President Biden acts accordingly. Every day we see General Secretary Xi’s threats on freedom and human rights grow more intense, yet the Biden Administration remains embarrassingly and dangerously weak.

“Let’s be clear – the U.S. does not have the luxury of ignoring this threat. While Biden tries to talk tough on Communist China, there is no action to back up his words. Every American dollar spent on goods made in Communist China supports its horrific attacks on democracy in Hong Kong, aggression toward Taiwan and genocide against the Uyghurs. There is no room for compromise with a communist regime that wants most of all to dominate the world. Secretary Blinken is right that we must work with our allies to stand up to Beijing, but we must go even further and do what reality demands: completely decouple from Communist China and treat them as the enemy they are.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Introduces DATA Act to Shield Americans’ Personal Information from Big Tech Companies

Senator Rick Scott introduced the Data and Algorithm Transparency Agreement (DATA) Act to increase transparency by requiring big tech platforms, like Facebook, Snapchat and Twitter, to receive express consent to use Americans’ personal information. The DATA Act also provides Americans with legal recourse against these companies if they believe their right to privacy has been violated.

Currently, tech companies capitalize on algorithms to manipulate users, pushing them toward content the algorithm believes they would like or be interested in. These companies are also gathering massive amounts of personal data – and users have little to no control over how their data is used.

Senator Rick Scott said, “The way big tech companies gather, manipulate and sell Americans’ personal data, all without consequence, is alarming. These are the same companies that censor free speech, and pick and choose which viewpoints are allowed on their platform. We have to hold these companies accountable and protect the rights of Americans. That’s why I’m introducing the DATA Act to require greater transparency in how big tech collects and uses our personal information, and to provide a recourse for Americans if their privacy is violated. The DATA Act finally gives Americans a say in what happens with their personal information.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Biden: Tell the Truth About Taxing American Families

In response to repeated claims by President Joe Biden that he won’t raise taxes on any American making less than $400,000 per year, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement urging the president to finally come clean and tell the truth about his plans to raise taxes on American families to pay for his massive spending proposals. Contrary to his statements, Biden has already broken his promise and raised taxes on American families making under $400,000.

Senator Rick Scott said, “In the just over 100 days that Joe Biden has been president, he’s proposed more than $6 TRILLION in new spending. That’s insane, even for the far left liberals. Yet Biden refuses to address the basic question I and many Americans keep asking: ‘How do you plan to pay for all of this, Joe?’

“Joe Biden claims that he won’t raise taxes on anyone making less than $400,000. Wrong. He’s already done it. Biden raised taxes on gig workers like hardworking Americans that drive for Uber and Lyft, or work for Door Dash, in his ‘American Rescue Plan.’ I tried to repeal this tax increase on the Senate floor and Democrats blocked it.

“Joe Biden claims big tax increases on American companies and the rich will pay for his liberal wish list. Wrong again. Even if Biden got to wave his liberal wand and spend the $6 trillion, we’d still fall $2.5 TRILLION short in paying for his reckless spending plans. Because Democrats refuse to live within our means, that means there is still $2.5 TRILLION left to be paid for by taxpayers making less than $400,000 over the coming years.

“Joe Biden has never met a tax increase he didn’t like. But reckless spending and high taxes hurt the American people and destroy their opportunity at the American dream. Joe Biden needs to tell the truth: more tax increase plans are coming and they won’t spare a single American family. It’s the wrong direction for our nation, and I’ll keep fighting against these foolish tax increases every day.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Labor Inspector General: We Need Answers on Fraud and Abuse of Enhanced Federal Unemployment

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to Larry Turner, Acting Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) urging him to provide answers on what the Department is doing to prevent, detect and address fraud, waste and abuse of federal unemployment benefits, which were enhanced through the CARES Act. Senator Scott’s letter comes as leaders and businesses across the nation are fighting to get Americans back to work. Just this week, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte announced an incentive program providing bonuses to people who return to the workforce.

Last week, Senator Scott posed the same questions in a letter to DOL Secretary Marty Walsh, but has yet to receive a response. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: Families on the Hook for $16,000 in Tax Hikes this Decade to Pay for Biden’s Spending

As President Joe Biden keeps promising not to raise taxes on any American making less than $400,000 per year, Senator Rick Scott released the following statement calling attention to the president’s faulty math. Earlier this week, Senator Scott pointed out that Biden’s current plans to tax American businesses and the wealthy falls $2.5 TRILLION short of paying for his entire $6 TRILLION in proposed spending. That means additional tax increases on American families are coming. According to data from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), to pay for Biden’s current plan, the average taxes owed by families making less than $500,000 would need to increase by $1,600 per year for ten years – a total of $16,000 in new taxes owed over the next decade.

Contrary to his statements, Biden has already broken his promise and raised taxes on American families making under $400,000.

Senator Rick Scott said, “President Biden has already announced his misguided plans to raise taxes on the ‘rich’ and America’s job creators. But we know that those tax hikes alone won’t cut it. Even if he gets his wishes, we still fall $2.5 TRILLION short in paying for the $6 TRILLION in wasteful spending he’s proposed. There’s only one group left for Biden to raise taxes on – hardworking American families. Sure, he promised he wouldn’t do it, but he’s already gone back on his word.

“The numbers don’t lie. Making up $2.5 TRILLION in revenue to pay for Biden’s far-Left agenda is going to cost American families. On average, taxpayers reporting adjusted gross incomes of less than $500,000 will see their tax bills spike by $1,600. That’s $1,600 every year, for the next 10 years.

“Earlier this week, I asked Biden to tell the truth about his plans to raise taxes on American families. We know he won’t come clean, so I’ll tell you what I’m going to do. I’m going to fight Biden’s radical tax and spend agenda every day. With inflation rising and America speeding toward $30 TRILLION in federal debt, the last thing we need is more taxes and more reckless spending. It is time for fiscally responsible Democrats to stand with fiscally responsible Republicans on getting our debt under control and our house in order. The American people deserve accountability.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Urges Fairness for Floridians in NFIP Reform

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell and Deputy Associate Administrator of Insurance and Mitigation and Senior Executive of National Flood Insurance Program David Maurstad requesting information regarding the new National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) rating system, Risk Rating 2.0. As FEMA works to make much-needed changes to NFIP and implement its new rating system, Senator Scott is urging the agency to make improvements to ensure fairness for Florida’s families and businesses. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Applauds G7 Foreign Ministers for Standing Up to Communist China

Senator Rick Scott released the following statement after G7 foreign ministers urged Communist China to refrain from ramping up “tensions” in the East and South China Seas amid concern about open conflict with Taiwan, scolded China for their human rights abuses and backed Taiwan’s “meaningful participation” in the World Health Organization and the World Health Assembly.

This action follows Senator Scott’s Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act to further reinforce the U.S.-Taiwan relationship and strengthen Taiwan’s ability to resist Communist China’s aggressive policies and military actions, and his World Health Organization (WHO) Accountability Act to hold the WHO responsible for its role in helping Communist China cover up information regarding the threat of the coronavirus and withhold American taxpayer dollars from the WHO until it accepts Taiwan as a member state.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I applaud the action by the G7 foreign ministers to stand up to Communist China’s overreach and grotesque human rights abuses, and join the U.S. in our commitment to Taiwan. Earlier this year, I introduced the WHO Accountability Act to hold them accountable and urge the acceptance of Taiwan as a member state. It’s time that the Senate passes this important legislation.

“It is no secret that General Secretary Xi is bent on world domination. The United States and the world community cannot sit back and let this happen, and that starts with supporting our peaceful and democratic partner Taiwan. We all must join together in the fight for freedom and human rights, and make clear to General Secretary Xi that his genocide and oppression won’t be tolerated.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Outlines Priorities in Letter to HUD Secretary Fudge

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Marcia Fudge outlining his priorities for the department. In his letter, Senator Scott stresses the importance expanding the availability of affordable housing, ensuring housing projects support American jobs and working to make sure every tax dollar spent provides the highest possible return on investment. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott Urges NOAA to Work With FWC on Investigation of Shark Abuse in Florida

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Benjamin Friedman, Deputy Under Secretary for Operations for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), urging the agency to work directly with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to provide any federal assistance needed in its investigation into allegations of tiger shark abuse in Citrus County. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott to Peace Corps: Allegations of Sexual Assault on Volunteers are Shocking and Unacceptable

Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Peace Corps Acting Director Carol Spahn requesting more information on the Peace Corps’ plans and actions to address serious and unacceptable allegations of sexual assault against volunteers. In his letter, Senator Scott asks how the Peace Corps will work to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its volunteers and trainees around the world. Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott: It’s Time to Get Americans Back to Work

Senator Rick Scott released the below statement following the announcement that the U.S. economy created only 266,000 jobs in April, well below the anticipated million-jobs increase, and unemployment rose for the first time since April 2020. This comes as the level of Americans receiving unemployment benefits remains elevated and businesses across the nation are still struggling to hire enough workers.

This news follows Senator Scott’s letter this week to Larry Turner, Acting Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Labor, urging him to provide answers on what the Department is doing to prevent, detect and address fraud, waste and abuse of federal unemployment benefits, which were enhanced through the CARES Act. Last week, Senator Scott asked Department of Labor Secretary Marty Walsh for information on the Department’s plans to combat fraud and abuse of enhanced federal unemployment benefits and get Americans back to work.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Since the beginning of the pandemic, I have supported the effort to get targeted aid to struggling families and businesses, but I have been clear that the federal government cannot be paying Americans more to stay home than go back to their jobs. I fought to include a provision in the CARES Act to ensure we weren’t creating a disincentive to return to work, but the Democrats blocked it. Now we are seeing the consequences. I’ve spoken to countless businesses in Florida and across the nation that have reopened but are struggling to find enough workers. We cannot ignore their voices.” Read more HERE.

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Sen. Rick Scott on Bloomberg: Democrats’ Push for “Free Everything” Means Government Will Control Your Life
Watch the full interview HERE or below

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Sen. Rick Scott in the Wall Street Journal: Inflation Is More of a Threat Than the Fed Says

Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to the editor of the Wall Street Journal in response to a recent op-ed, The Fed in the Sand as Inflation Threatens, about the Federal Reserve’s reluctance to address the very real threat of inflation, and refusal to release a plan to curb the effects of inflation on American families.

In the letter, Senator Rick Scott said, “…There must be a clear plan to address rising inflation. Fiscal policy makers should be transparent with American families and offer solutions to those who may be hurt by their decisions. Eighty-seven percent of Americans are already concerned about the rising costs of everyday goods. Mr. Powell needs to get real about inflation and stop brushing off this serious issue as ‘temporary’ pain.”

Read the full letter to the editor in the Wall Street Journal HERE.

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The Epoch Times: GOP Senators Propose Curbs on Low-Rate World Bank Loans to Beijing

Townhall: Rick Scott Fact Checks Biden on Tax Increase Claim

Newsmax: Rick Scott Demands Answers on Any Abuses of Enhanced Jobless Benefits

Jewish Insider: Lawmakers reintroduce bill to enable Holocaust-era insurance claims

WFTV: EXCLUSIVE: One on one with Florida Senator Rick Scott

WFTV: VIDEO: Florida Senator Rick Scott urging fellow Republicans to demand spending cuts

WTXL: Sen. Rick Scott introduces DATA Act to shield personal info from Big Tech companies

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Outlines Priorities for Interior Department in Letter to Deb Haaland

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Takes Aim at Big Tech With the DATA Act

Florida Daily: Rick Scott Wants Fairness for Florida as FEMA Reforms National Flood Insurance Program

Weekly Wrap-Up with Congressman Byron Donalds

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Weekly Wrap-Up with

Congressman Byron Donalds

May 3, 2021

The House of Representatives remained in recess this past week, which means I had to opportunity to stay in Florida and meet with local leaders, statewide leaders in Tallahassee, and constituents like you, who I am honored to serve.

During the week, the CDC finally lifted mask mandates for indoor and outdoor use, which is many weeks behind the eight ball from states like Florida and Texas, which ended these mandates without consequences of dangerous increases in infection and, more importantly, hospitalization or deaths. But, unfortunately, the Democratic leadership in Washington is continuing in their show games by refusing to follow CDC guidance by continuing to engage in extreme and unnecessary COVID-19 protocols.

Also, President Biden addressed Congress to lay out his priorities and outline what he’s done over the past 100 days in office. While many thought Biden would operate moderately and in a bipartisan fashion, his first 100 days were anything but that. When you receive an A+ rating from Sen. Sanders, Reps AOC, Omar, and Raskin, you know one thing is for sure, you are noting governing moderately, and it’s not bipartisan. Biden’s speech was hard to take seriously when he’s been in office for nearly 50 years, and he has yet to accomplish any of which he says he will now do. Following Biden’s speech, Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) outlined a rebuttal to the Democrats’ calls for increased taxes, more spending, unfettered immigration, and an America last plan with a vision for the future that represents conservative principles and commonsense policies.

In response to his speech, the Left joined in unison, calling the Senator an “Uncle Tim” and other disgraceful comments directed toward Black conservatives. We can disagree on policy and politics, but the Lefts’ tactics of race batting and reverse racism are shameful.

Lastly, during the difficult times our nation faces, I came to Washington not to resist but represent the people of FL19. While partisan gridlock is the norm around Washington, D.C, I did not go there to contribute to that failed system. Last week, I was proud to partner with my colleague Chair of the Small Business Committee, Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), to protect small business contractors who do business with the federal government.

Rest assured, my team and I are devoted to working, even when Congress doesn’t. Continue reading below for critical legislative briefings, the latest news out of Washington, D.C., and events in Southwest Florida!

Meeting with Florida Secretary of State

Last week, I had the opportunity to meet with Florida Secretary of State Laurel Lee to discuss Florida’s success in conducting elections with transparency and efficiency, and how we scale that success throughout the nation. Thank you for the opportunity to meet, Madam Secretary!

Secretary Lee

Legislative Updates

Small businesses are the lifeblood of our national economy, and as a member of the House Small Business Committee, it’s imperative members come together to ensure small businesses have the protection they deserve.

I’m proud to work with Chairwoman Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) on this common-sense, bipartisan legislation to bring real solutions to American business owners.

Small Construction Firm Bill

I proudly joined my colleagues in calling for the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide the necessary funding to complete construction on the wall at our Southern Border.

This infrastructure is critical to the safety of all Americans, will provide countless jobs, and is a cost-efficient solution to curb illegal immigration. To read the full letter, click below:

Rep. Donalds Joins Congressional Colleagues in a Letter to U.S. DOT Secretary

In the Media

ICYMI: Earlier this week I was honored to join the great Sean Hannity on Fox News’ “Hannity” in a panel alongside former Trump Administration House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany to discuss the partisan biased CNN reporter Jim Acosta. Click below to watch the fiery interview below:

Byron Donalds and Kayleigh McEnany join “Hannity”

I joined Lara Trump for a panel on Fox News’ “Justice with Jeanine” hosted by Judge Jeanine Pirro to “woke” liberals demonizing Senator Tim Scott with racial slurs, the hypocrisy surrounding the Democrats message of “unity”, and the importance of the 2022 elections. Click below to watch the full interview:

Rep. Byron Donalds and Lara Trump join ‘Justice with Jeanine’

I joined Fox News’ John Roberts “America Reports” to discuss the ignorant and racist comments by Hollywood elites like Joy Behar regarding Senator Tim Scott and his Republican Response to President Biden’s first address to a joint congress. Watch the interview by clicking below!

Byron Donalds Joins “America Reports” with John Roberts

I was happy to join the “Chris Salcedo Show” on Newsmax to discuss the intolerance and ignorance I’ve experienced from “woke” liberals and to shine a light on the racist history of President Joe Biden. Watch the exchange by clicking the link below:

Byron Donalds Tells Newsmax About Intolerance from the Left

Congressional Art Competition

Reminder to all high school artists throughout Southwest Florida, Wednesday, May 5th is the deadline to submit your artwork for the Congressional Art Competition. For details on how to enter, please visit my website: donalds.house.gov/forms/submitartwork/

art competition

FreedomWorks Member of the Month

I was honored to be named the April 2021 ‘Member of the Month’ by FreedomWorks- an organization focused on the grassroots efforts of preserving and education the foundational principles of individual liberty.

I came to Congress to protect and defend the Constitution, above all else. I’m looking forward to working alongside FreedomWorks to promote policies that enhance economic freedom, limit the size and scope of the federal government, and fight unnecessary tax increases. Click below to read the profile in its entirety:

FreedomWorks April 2021 Member of the Month: Rep. Byron Donalds

Serving the hardworking men and women of Florida’s 19th Congressional District is my distinct honor and privilege. It’s time Washington works for our community’s values, and every day I will always strive to ensure your government is working for you.

Sincerely,

Byron Donalds Signature

Byron Donalds
Member of Congress

From the desk of Chairman Joe Gruters

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Chairman’s Message

Florida continues to lead on school choice for parents and students

The Legislature has passed bills maximizing parental choice by expanding eligibility and streamlining school choice scholarship programs for students with unique abilities and students from lower income families. The Senate passed House Bill 7045, School Choice, sponsored in the Senate by Senator Manny Diaz, Jr.

“I’m pleased to see the Senate stand with Florida parents who overwhelmingly support expanding eligibility for these popular school choice programs. We know that parents are their children’s first and best educators, a fact that has certainly been highlighted over the last year,” Senate President Wilton Simpson said. “We want school choice to be an option for every family. This important legislation further streamlines our existing school choice scholarships, and expands eligibility for lower income families, families of students with unique abilities, adopted children, and children whose parents serve in our military.”

The legislation expands school choice to allow a family of four earning less than $100,000 to receive full funding for K-12 education costs at a school of their choice under an expansion of the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program. Eligibility is expanded to students who are not enrolled in a public school, students of parents serving in the military, and students who are in foster care or adopted.

Read much more here: https://www.flsenate.gov/Media/PressReleases/Show/3963

The Wall Street Journal ran a terrific editorial on Florida’s school choice bill, the final line of which is: Florida is a haven for overtaxed northerners, but it’s also an education refuge for low- and middle-income families.

Read more here:
https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?DocumentType=Press%20Release&FileName=764

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Holding Big Tech accountable. Both chambers of the Florida Legislature have now approved legislation barring social media companies from deplatforming political candidates. It’s a classic free speech, anti-censorship, equal access and protection bill for all Floridians.

Republicans and free-speech advocates — and just a lot of Americans — were outraged after the sitting President of the United States, President Donald Trump, was suspended and then banned from Facebook and Twitter in January on the spurious accusation that his content had the potential to incite violence. It did not, but plenty of content that the social media platforms do allow does have the potential, and expectation, to incite violence — such as Antifa organizing on their platforms.

After the appalling, partisan ban of the President,the New York Post, Parler, and Republican candidates such as Laura Loomer, Governor Ron DeSantis called for laws stopping the social media giants from doing this again. After all, for better or worse, they are the public square now and access to them is required for free speech to flourish. Under the measure, social media giants would be forbidden to suspend the accounts of candidates for more than 60 days before an election has been resolved.

Read more here: https://www.baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2021/04/28/florida-house-oks-bills-banning-social-media-deplatforming–voting-drop-boxes-

Legislation

The Florida House and Senate have agreed to a budget that is balanced, while making record investments in flood mitigation, education and leaving $6 billion in budget reserves. The 2021 General Appropriations Act prepares Florida today for a better tomorrow. In reconciling the House and Senate budgets, both sides praised the other for their spirit of cooperation throughout the process.

“Working together with our partners in the Senate, we were able to craft a budget that funds immediate needs and also long-term priorities for the future,” House Speaker Chris Sprowls said. “In the greenest budget in Florida’s history, we respond to the needs of our state in areas like flooding mitigation, state park maintenance and water quality. We provide unprecedented levels of budget reserves, make record investments in higher-education funding, fund an overhaul of our workforce system and extend postpartum Medicaid coverage from two months to a full year.”

House Appropriations Committee Chair Trumbull said: “We make smart, good-government investments into programs that provide lasting benefits for generations. From unprecedented infrastructure funding to record investments into beach renourishment to bonuses for teachers and front-line workers, we make the right decisions for Florida’s future.”

The $101.5 billion budget includes $6.9 billion in federal funding from Medicaid increases and federal education stimulus funds. If those funds were not included, the budget would be $94.6 billion, slightly above the $92.3 billion budget approved last year.

Read more here: https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?DocumentType=Press%20Release&FileName=763

Florida Update

Governor DeSantis announced a historic gaming compact between the State of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The agreement will generate a minimum of $2.5 billion in new state revenue over the next five years, and an estimated $6 billion through 2030.

“This historic compact expands economic opportunity, tourism, and recreation, and bolsters the fiscal success of our state in one fell swoop for the benefit of all Floridians and Seminoles alike,” Governor DeSantis said. “Our agreement establishes the framework to generate billions in new revenue and untold waves of positive economic impact.”

Larger and more expansive than any other gaming compact in U.S. history, the agreement increases the revenue to the State of Florida from the Seminole Tribe from no revenue to over $6 billion over the next decade, with a guaranteed minimum of $2.5 billion during the first five years. Most notably, the compact modernizes the gaming industry through the authorization of sports betting in Florida through the Tribe. The agreement also provides protections for pari-mutuel operations and the opportunity to participate in sports betting offered by the Tribe.

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/04/23/governor-ron-desantis-strikes-historic-gaming-compact-with-seminole-tribe-of-florida/

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Governor DeSantis announced significant progress in the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir Project in a press conference where he was joined by Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Noah Valenstein and the South Florida Water Management District to announce significant progress on the Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir Project.

The SFWMD Governing Board unanimously approved an agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that keeps the Corps on track to begin federal construction on the reservoir component this year. In April 2020, Governor DeSantis announced that the South Florida Water Management District began construction on the State of Florida’s component of the project, the stormwater treatment area, 12 months ahead of schedule.

“Today marks a critical milestone for Everglades restoration and achieving our state’s long-term environmental goals,” Governor DeSantis said.

Read more: https://www.flgov.com/2021/04/22/governor-ron-desantis-announces-major-milestone-to-advance-eaa-reservoir-project/

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Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis needled Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer with a letter this week in response to ongoing revelations that she and a top staffer visited Florida recently after telling Michigan residents they should not travel — particularly to Florida. CFO Patronis provided the governor and her staff with tourism materials from the state’s “Visit Florida” marketing board to “help plan” their next trip down.

“Now that you and your COO have personally experienced what the Sunshine State has to offer, I encourage you to share your experiences publicly. More importantly, however, don’t be a stranger!”

Read more here: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/desantis-cabinet-member-trolls-michigans-whitmer-over-travel-mess-by-sending-tourism-pamphlets

Social Media Highlights

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