State Senator Kathleen Passidomo Update

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

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

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

Melo Minute – February 19th

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What We’ve Been Up To

Hello and welcome to the Melo Minute! The purpose of this newsletter is to keep you informed about the happenings in our district, in Tallahassee, and to outline the current actions my team and I are taking to serve you. I’m excited about having the opportunity to effectively communicate with all of you.

This past week the majority of my time was spent in Tallahassee in Committees so this will be the bulk of our first issue!

Notable Committee Vote

HB 233 – Intellectual Freedom in Postsecondary Education
• This bill came before the Post-Secondary Education and Lifelong Learning Subcommittee of which I am a member of. This bills creates a survey for colleges and universities to conduct a study on intellectual/political diversity on their campuses, ensures that students maintain their First Amendment right to express their political ideologies whilst in the college/university setting, allows students to record their classes (they may only publish recordings with professor consent), and provides basic legal protections to students and student governments in the universities/colleges when accused of wrong doing by their institution — such as the burden of proof being on the institution. When this bill appeared before the committee I voted yes. It passed the committee with a 12-6 vote.

The Latest In Tallahassee

HB 9 Passes Through the Criminal Justice & Public Safety Subcommittee

HB 9 establishes criminal penalties and authorizes civil remedies to protect Floridians from fraud as they seek to get vaccinated during a pandemic. This bill works to penalize scammers that use fake websites to lure unsuspecting Floridians into paying for COVID-19 vaccines or appointments that never materialize. HB 9 passed its second committee on Wednesday, February 10, and is now headed to the Judiciary Committee.
Conversations at the Capitol

Here are the main issues the Florida House began to tackle this week:

• Combating flooding and sea level rise
• Enhancing opportunities to help job seekers pursue careers
• Identifying the most in-demand careers for Florida’s workforce
• Highlighting what went right in Florida’s 2020 elections and looking at ways to improve our system

Some of the Bills I’ve Filled

HB 617 – Greenhouse Gas Emissions

• This bill works to provide a check and balance on state agencies so that any attempt to adopt or enforce state/regional programs regulating gas emissions must first come through the Legislature for approval. This would ensure that the Florida House and Senate have a seat at the table when making such decisions.

HB 579 – Safe Harbor

• This bill works to protect businesses responding to declared emergencies from having specific civil causes of action put against them. For example, should a subcontractor — not officially classified as employee — try to claim additional compensation or aid from a business, due to a business’ response from a declared emergency potentially changing their classification, they would not be able to do so under this bill.

HB 3773 – LaBelle Wastewater Treatment Plant System Improvements and Expansion

• Ensuring clean water is a necessity for Florida. That is why this appropriations request is asking for $15.9 million from the Department of Environmental Protection to fund the LaBelle Wastewater Treatment Plant’s improvements and expand it.

HB 3761 – Collier County Golden Gate Senior Center Expansion

• This an appropriations bill that is attempting to allocate funding for expanding the Collier County Golden Gate Senior Center. It is asking for a nonrecurring sum of $250,000 from the Department of Elder Affairs to fund the project.

Commissioner LoCastro update February 13

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We hope you have been enjoying The Commissioner’s Report!  There are over 14,500 subscribers…and still growing!  Great positive feedback has been received…thank you!!  We will continue to keep you informed and work diligently towards enhancing the quality of life in District 1 and all of Collier County. Thank you for the opportunity to serve YOU…it’s an honor!!

 

 

COVID 19

 

CARES ACT

 

Update on the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act which provides funds to State, & Local governments to offset impacts of COVID:  last June, Governor DeSantis announced a plan to distribute $1.3 billion in CARES funds to Counties, including $67 million to Collier County. As of February 1, 2021, approximately $32 million has been paid throughout our County and approximately $13.5 million is in the process to be paid (see below chart for how the money has been distributed so far). If you have a qualifying need… please contact the County for details to formally apply for funds by calling (239) 252-CARE (2273).

 

FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH:

 

DOH-Collier is in the process of transitioning to the ShareCare site [the MyVaccine system]. This includes training staff and meeting with local and State Emergency Management. Residents are able to call the toll-free number, 866-201-4885, to sign up for the waitlist. They are working with Collier County  Emergency Management (EM) and State Emergency Management to secure that list to schedule clients for the vaccine. Furthermore, they continue to work with our community partners, such as Collier County EMS/Fire, EM, local hospitals, municipalities, and outreach groups to continue to schedule those who are 65+ and healthcare personnel with direct patient contact.

 

CONTACT NUMBERS AND WEBSITES

 

The DOH call center will remain open Monday – Sunday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.  Contact numbers:  (239) 252-6220 or (239) 252-8200.     Monitor the following websites:

collier.floridahealth.gov   floridahealthcovid19.gov   CollierCountyCOVIDVaccines.Eventbrite.com

 

YOUR GOVERNMENT

 

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEETING
FEBRUARY 9, 2021

 

 

  • Heritage Bay Planned Unit Development Commissioners agreed with the County Planning Commission and unanimously approved amending an ordinance allowing property owners to gate a private road (Limestone Trail between Belaire Bay & Quarry Drive). Gates will allow residents of Quarry and Heritage Bay to utilize their privately owned and maintained road for residents only.
  • Big Cypress Basin Boundary Delineation Study Commissioners voted unanimously to reject a proposal to expand Big Cypress Basin Boundary. We agree with the spirit of the idea… but have significant concerns with the moving parts, leadership oversight, and several governance issues. We currently disapprove of the expansion unless certain items are made clear and we are convinced this is in the BEST interest of Collier County. We don’t feel that way right now… me especially.
  • County Manager Recruitment Hiring a new County Manager moved forward today. Out of the almost 40 applicants, Commissioners each privately came up with a short list. When those lists were compared today, there were 5 candidates who were common to us all. We unanimously decided to interview those top 5 candidates each one on one. We will then invite all 5 to a Commissioner meeting in March to speak at the podium in public. It was obvious all Commissioners felt similarly about the top applicants and what we are looking for… 3 of the 5 are currently in Collier County leadership positions… 2 are outsiders. We are on schedule to zero in on the strongest candidate and will compare notes at our next meeting on our private interviews with each candidate.
  • DAS Advisory Board Appointment The Advisory Board to Domestic Animal Services (DAS) has 7 positions… 6 were currently filled. During their meeting last month, which I attended, the 6 current members tied 3-3 on the two candidates competing for the one vacancy. Procedure required it be sent to Commissioners for our decision. For a few days, Commissioners heard from both candidates and supporters through discussions and emails. At the BCC meeting, the Commissioners unanimously picked Kelly Hyland, a District 1 citizen, who’s been very involved in animal welfare, regularly attends DAS meetings, and has been personally responsible for many improvements in Animal Welfare in our County. She will be a phenomenal addition to the other 6 board members working to make DAS even better.

 

RECYCLING CENTER

 

 

Spent an afternoon in briefings with our team running our Northeast Recycling Drop-Off Center (825 39th Ave NE, Naples). This is our largest County center at 29,000 sq ft on 14 acres. It assists 11,000+ customers and processes over 350,000 lbs. of household hazardous waste and recyclable materials. Great meeting today discussing all we do at this location… but also, most importantly, how we can work to improve recycling across all of Collier County… more new initiatives coming!

 

BIG CORKSCREW REGIONAL PARK

 

 

Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park (825 39th Ave NE, Naples) is under construction & opens THIS SUMMER! The 150 acre park will be AMAZING with amenities including:

 

Community Center                 Walking Paths
Aquatic Center                        Dog Park
Event Lawn w/ Stage              6 Multipurpose Fields
Concession Pavilions             4 Baseball Fields
Fitness Center                        2 Basketball Courts
Kayak/Canoe Launch             2 Tennis Courts
Playgrounds                           2 Pickle Courts

 

I was impressed with the discussion and tour of the construction site… and will work with our team to ensure we deliver this project on time and on/under budget! Get ready this summer to bring your family to this amazing Park that has it all!

 

 

PICAYUNE STRAND RESTORATION PROJECT
& PUMP STATION VISITS

 
Water is THE KEY component to our community and environment. I spent the afternoon with team members from our Southwest Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) and Lisa Koehler, Big Cypress Basin Administrator, visiting THREE major pump stations in District 1 located in the Picayune Strand State Forest which are some of the largest in our state.

 

I received quite an education on the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (authorized by Congress in 2000) which provides the framework to restore, preserve, and protect our South Florida ecosystem. The THREE pump stations direct freshwater to drain wetlands and maintain current flood protection for Collier County. They also provide habitat restoration to control outflow and mimic historic water flows to protect our wetlands and wildlife. A soon to be improved levee will also provide flood protection for existing agriculture and residential areas, as well. Also, learned about manatee mitigation features that provide additional warm water areas to help the species flourish. There are many behind the scenes people and projects at work in District 1 and throughout our County that help preserve our environment, control water flow, and keep our community and ecosystem healthy. Understanding how these pumps, infrastructure, and professionals work to accomplish that is critical to any public servant.

 

 

Many think these pumps are the cause or the fix for flooding, red tide, etc.… but as I learned today, that’s not true. The SFWMD controls water movement primarily to ensure healthy wetlands, control the flow of water which does assist in some flood mitigation—BUT most importantly, preserves our fragile ecosystem around the Everglades and beyond. Extremely educational day with professionals who do amazing work! Elected officials need to fully understand these efforts and where we can continue to improve. Proud knowing this critical pump system and team is in District 1! I will continue to keep water and our environment a TOP priority in our County and beyond… and continue to work closely with our teams to ensure we are doing EVERYTHING possible.

 

 

OUT IN THE COMMUNITY

 

AMERICAN LEGION “NATIONAL COMMANDER”
VISITS MARCO POST 404

 

 

Honored to join my fellow American Legion members today to greet our American Legion National Commander Bill Oxford as he visited our Marco Island Post 404. Our local Post Commander, Lee Rubenstein, hosted him with a formation of our Post members at Veterans Community Park. National Commander Bill Oxford is traveling throughout Southwest Florida and made a stop here to meet our Post 404 members and view our amazing Veterans Memorial & Fountain. Also, thanks to Marco City Manager, Mike McNees, who joined our welcome party! We were able to share with the National Commander the multiple years our Post has hosted the Vietnam Wall replica here on Marco… and the upcoming plans to totally renovate & revitalize Veterans Park.

 

TOWNHALL MEETING – PORT OF THE ISLANDS

 

Another Townhall meeting…this time at Port of the Islands. There is plenty to do in this important part of District 1. We are in the final stages of tearing down a long abandoned and vandalized hotel (see photos below) we’re attacking upgrades needed at their Marina, and it was great to address a packed Community Center, answer questions, and let citizens know their community is a priority to their new District 1 County Commissioner! I plan to have many more Townhalls throughout District 1… and I’m very appreciative of all the communities who have reached out and have hosted me for Townhall meetings, Zoom video discussions, and live camera recordings.  It’s important for me to “bring the Commissioner to the people”!

 

 

 

GOLDEN PAWS ASSISTANCE DOGS

 

 

 

Met with Jeannie Bates, Founder of PAWS, at their soon to be new location just off Pine Ridge Blvd. This incredible organization provides “assistance dogs“ to mostly military veterans… but also others in need. They recently acquired a new $6.3M building (formally Harley Davidson on Pine Ridge) paid in full by two generous donors! They now need $4M+ to renovate and turn it into a full-fledged training facility. This gigantic new location will double the capacity of dogs they train. Since their start in 2012, they’ve placed over 100 dogs (98% of those with military veterans). PAWS expects to cut the ribbon on this new location in January 2022!

State Senator Kathleen Passidomo Update February 13

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

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

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

 

  Florida COVID-19 Vaccine Update

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

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

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

Read the Governor’s press release.

  

 

  Reminder: Find COVID-19 Vaccinations Near You

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

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

The state is prioritizing:

·         Persons 65 years of age and older

·         Health care personnel with direct patient contact

·         Residents and staff of long-term care facilities

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

  

 

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

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

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

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

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

  

 

  COVID-19 Update: Florida Case Data

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

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

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

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

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

  

 

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

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

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

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

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

To learn more about the bill, click here.

  

 

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

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

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

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

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

To learn more about SB 52, click here.

  

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

  

 

  Senate Judiciary Committee Passes Employee Protection Against Unions

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

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

To learn more about the bill, click here.

  

 

  Call to Action to Army Corps of Engineers

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

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

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

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

  

Republican Party of Florida Update 2-11-2021

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Breaking News: Biden Administration Considering Domestic Travel Restrictions?

While in Charlotte County today, Governor Ron DeSantis made strong comments in reaction to a report, quoting an unnamed White House official who is suggesting that the Biden Administration is considering imposing domestic travel restrictions on Americans and Floridians.

Here is what Governor DeSantis said:

“I think it is an absurd report. It would be unconstitutional, unwise, and unjust. And if you think about it, restricting the rights of Americans to travel freely throughout our country, while allowing illegal aliens to pour across the southwestern border unmolested would be a ridiculous but very damaging farce.

We will oppose it 100 percent, it would not be based on science, it would purely be a political attack against the people of Florida.”

 

Chairman’s Message

Thanks to Governor Ron DeSantis’ leadership, Florida’s COVID vaccine distribution process is so efficiently run that the response time from a phone call from community leaders to shots in the arms of residents at a pop-up site can be implemented almost in real time.

Governor DeSantis has repeatedly stated his appreciation for elected leaders, health officials, emergency management officials and frontline workers  at the state and local levels who are working together to ensure the highest number of seniors get vaccinated. This week Governor DeSantis spoke at a Venice pop-up vaccination site that clearly demonstrated this type of successful collaboration.  Venice is a community with a high percentage of older Floridians that was in need of an extra boost.

The three-day site began operating on Wednesday and will administer 1,000 vaccines per day through Friday, February 12, for a total of 3,000 vaccines for Florida’s seniors in the Sarasota County area.

To watch the Governor’s event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7FyQ1nXtfI

 

Covid-19 Update

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

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

In Florida, Publix Super Markets, Walmart/Sam’s Club and Southeastern Grocers (Winn-Dixie, Harveys Supermarket and Fresco y Más) pharmacies were selected to begin administering the COVID-19 vaccine.

  • Publix – 593 locations
  • Walmart and Sam’s Club – 119 locations
  • Winn-Dixie – 43 locations

Read more here: https://www.flgov.com/2021/02/09/governor-ron-desantis-announces-additional-covid-19-vaccination-sites-at-walmart-and-publix-locations-throughout-florida/

 

Florida Update

The Republican Lieutenant Governors Association (RLGA), a caucus of the Republican State Leadership Committee (RSLC), announced that our Florida Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez will serve as the committee’s chairman through 2021.

Lieutenant Governor Nuñez is recognized by Floridians and her peers for being a leader, helping the RSLC shatter fundraising records, which paved the way for Republicans to deliver key victories in 2020, including in North Carolina and Utah. Her leadership in Florida also helped increase Republican majorities in both of Florida’s legislative chambers. She will be instrumental as the organization now shifts its focus to the 32 elections across the country in the next two years.

We are proud of Lieutenant Governor Nuñez, Florida’s first Hispanic female Lieutenant Governor, for all her hard work and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of all Floridians.

Read more here: https://rslc.gop/rlga-announces-florida-lieutenant-governor-jeanette-nunez-as-chairman/

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Disney may consider moving its headquarters operations to Florida from California, where the company is struggling to reopen its theme parks. The potential move makes Disney the latest in a growing number of companies considering moving some or all of their operations out of California, which has some of the strictest lockdown measures in the country.

Over the course of the pandemic, Disney CEO Bob Chapek has lambasted California’s handling of the pandemic, calling the rules in place “arbitrary.”

“We are extremely disappointed that the State of California continues to keep Disneyland closed despite our proven track record. Our health and safety protocols are all science-based and have the support of labor unions representing 99% of our hourly cast members,” Chapek said.

It’s a tragedy that several states such as California continue to crush their businesses and their people when states like Florida have been open since late spring and show no worse Covid numbers than the closed states.

Read more here: https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/exodus-california-disney-florida

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CFO Jimmy Patronis spoke with Fox and Friends about how California businesses are eager to come to Florida, the state with a “whopping 0% income tax.” Of course, the latest company talking about making that move is Walt Disney, a decision that would be huge for both the company and the state of Florida.

Patronis continues to keep working to keep Florida open, something that New York City restaurant owners are finding enticing. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has kept New York closed for so long that many are losing their businesses, where cities like Miami have been open at 100% capacity since October.

Patronis also recently spoke with The Floridian about running for re-election and how he will not shy away from his support of former President Trump and the efforts that he has made here in Florida. Heading into re-election means he isn’t willing to back down and will not go down without a fight.

Watch his full interview here: https://floridianpress.com/2021/02/patronis-ready-for-reelection-says-he-wont-shy-away-from-his-loyalty-to-trump/

State Senator Kathleen Passidom Update February 7

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

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

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

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

 

Florida COVID-19 Vaccine Update

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

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

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

 

COVID-19 Update: Florida Case Data

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

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

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

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

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

 

Find A COVID-19 Vaccination Location Near You

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

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

The state is prioritizing:

·         Persons 65 years of age and older

·         Health care personnel with direct patient contact

·         Residents and staff of long-term care facilities

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

 

Pre-Register for COVID-19 Vaccine

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

·         Florida Department of Health Vaccine Rollout FAQs

·         Lee Health FAQs on COVID-19 Vaccine

·         Lee County Vaccine Webpage

·         Moderna Fact Sheet For Recipients And Caregivers

·         Moderna Fact Sheet For Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine

·         Pfizer Fact Sheet For Recipients And Caregivers

·         Pfizer Fact Sheet For Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine

 

Reminder: Publix COVID-19 Vaccine Locations

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

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

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

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

 

Florida DOH Prioritizes Mental Health During COVID-19

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

Local recipients of program funding include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Senate Seeks to Maximize School Choice and Expand Scholarship Eligibility

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

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

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

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

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

 

Florida Senate Reaffirms Commitment to Support and Honor Our Veterans

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Legislation to Modernize Right to Farm Protections Passes First Committee

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

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

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

 

Property Insurance Reform Bill Passes Its First Committee

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

Legislation Advances to Protect Victims of Domestic Violence

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

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

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

 

Pandemic Committee Reviews COVID-19 Response in Elder Care Facilities

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

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

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

 

Florida Receives Funding to Strengthen the Fight Against Opioids

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

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

 

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

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

This legislation would replace traditional pensions.

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

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

 

In the News

Collier Library to receive 1.5 million in repairs

Lee County acquires 427 acres for preservation program

Governor DeSantis, Legislative Leaders Go After Big Tech

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Governor DeSantis, Legislative Leaders Go After Big Tech

Governor Ron DeSantis went on the offensive Tuesday protecting Floridians from Big Tech censorship, calling them “enforcers of preferred narratives” whose economic interests are “not in the public interest” during a speech announcing new legislation.

The “Transparency in Technology Act” would increase technology transparency in Florida, particularly as it relates to “Big Tech” firms like Facebook/Instagram, Twitter, Apple, Amazon, and Google.

“In Florida, our message to Big Tech is loud and clear. Big Tech companies have long since abdicated the protection of consumers for the pursuit of profit and we can’t allow Floridians’ privacy, voices, or livelihoods be violated or diminished. When it comes to elections, Big Tech shouldn’t be in the business of censoring or de-platforming candidates, but rather, voters should be able to make that choice independently. Floridians should be able to choose which content to consume and which to ignore, because I want to preserve Florida’s rich, diverse public discourse and not allow corporate-owned, content managing outlets to dominate our voices.”

~~ Governor Ron DeSantis

Joining the governor at the announcement were Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, House Speaker Chris Sprowls, Senate President Wilton Simpson along with the bill sponsors, Senator Danny Burgess and House Commerce Committee Chair Blaise Ingoglia.

To read more about the announcement and to see what the Lieutenant Governor, House Speaker and Senate President said please see the “Transparency in Technology Act” press release below or click here to watch.

We have also included links to some of the many published news reports.

Read more here: https://www.theblaze.com/news/desantis-legislation-crack-down-on-big-tech

And here: https://www.orlandosentinel.com/politics/os-ne-desantis-tallahassee-news-conference-20210202-r4pdvos3rbcdnj7pgx2qupfdpa-story.html

 

For Immediate Release: February 2, 2021

Contact: Governor’s Press Office, (850) 717-9282, Media@eog.myflorida.com

Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida House Speaker Chris Sprowls and Senate President Wilton Simpson Highlight Proposed Legislation to Increase Technology Transparency in Florida

Tallahassee, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by legislative leaders to highlight proposed legislation that would increase technology transparency in Florida, particularly as it relates to “Big Tech” firms like Facebook/Instagram, Twitter, Apple, Amazon, and Google. The Governor was joined at today’s announcement by Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, House Speaker Chris Sprowls, Senate President Wilton Simpson, Senator Danny Burgess and House Commerce Committee Chair Blaise Ingoglia, who has introduced a bill in the Florida House of Representatives entitled, the “Transparency in Technology Act.”

“In Florida, our message to Big Tech is loud and clear,” said Governor DeSantis. “Big Tech companies have long since abdicated the protection of consumers for the pursuit of profit and we can’t allow Floridians’ privacy, voices, or livelihoods be violated or diminished. When it comes to elections, Big Tech shouldn’t be in the business of censoring or de-platforming candidates, but rather, voters should be able to make that choice independently. Floridians should be able to choose which content to consume and which to ignore, because I want to preserve Florida’s rich, diverse public discourse and not allow corporate-owned, content managing outlets to dominate our voices. With the help of our legislative partners, we’re going to stand together and support Floridians and put a stop to Big Tech’s practice of preying on, censoring and de-platforming consumers.”

“Tech leaders in Silicon Valley should not be the gatekeepers of what information is available to Floridians,” said Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez. “Governor DeSantis and our legislative leadership are committed to holding big tech accountable for their arbitrary censorship policies.”

“A fundamental understanding of what it means to be an American is that we have equal access to the town square — a place where we can share our thoughts, our ideas and our beliefs with fellow citizens,” said House Speaker Chris Sprowls. “The use of mystery algorithms, shadow banning and other deceptive techniques distort the public square like a fun-house mirror, exaggerating our fears and feeding our rage. If democracy is going to survive, we must stand up to these technological oligarchs and demand transparency.”

“Big Tech has a duty to allow different views on their public platforms. No one should be excluded, but let’s be clear, they are targeting conservatives and engaging in political censorship,” said Senate President Wilton Simpson. “While Congress has the full power to make changes to the terrible policy that allows big tech to discriminate, we will do everything in our power to stop the abuses and allow Floridians the right to express their views. Thank you, Governor DeSantis and Speaker Sprowls, for your leadership on this issue.”

“Big Tech should not be allowed to discriminate based on content and ban individuals just because they do not agree with their viewpoint,” said Senator Danny Burgess. “Regardless of a person’s background, political history, religion, race, gender, or any other identifying measure, Twitter and Facebook and others cannot be the sole judge, jury, and executioner of American’s First Amendment rights. For better or for worse, this is the new town square and social media has become a major part of our everyday life and society. The unilateral actions we have seen in recent weeks set a terrifying precedent that must be addressed appropriately. We hear from constituents every day who cannot fathom that this type of blatant political censorship is happening in our country. We are going to do everything we can at the state level to address this issue.”

“Big Tech has a death grip on public discourse, and the Florida House is calling for transparency and accountability once and for all,” said Commerce Committee Chair Blaise Ingoglia. “Whatever we see and what we engage with on social media is whatever the Big Tech giant deems we should be fed. Our proposal will give users the power to understand how they are being manipulated.”

Floridians have a right to know how these companies shape what they see and control what they say. The proposed legislation announced today would aim to require big tech firms to do the following:

  • Publish standards used to ban posts, de-platform and shadow ban users.
  • Provide equal access for established news organizations and qualified political candidates to reach users free from manipulation by algorithms.
  • Stop arbitrarily censoring and/or de-platforming users.
  • Give users the power to opt out of algorithms.
  • Stop frequent changes to terms of use, clearly communicate and obtain prior consent to changes.

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