Legislative Update
We just completed our third Special Session, this one is on property tax this June 2nd.
We have completed a reapportionment special session which has changed several districts. This has had a ripple effect with politicians retiring on the Federal and State level.
Senator Shev Jones, resigning early to run for Congresswoman Frederica Wilson’s seat. Representative Ashley Gantt has announced her intention to run for Senator Jones seat.
Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz’s district shifted which has her running in Congresswoman (resigned- Shelia Cherfilus-McCormick) seat. This has been a historically black seat and the disgraced Congresswoman has announced her intention to run along with several others in the community. It has created quite a controversy on several levels.
Senator Ed Hooper had also announced his early resignation and Sherriff Chris Nocco has filed for his seat and is the clear favorite.
Senator Tina Polsky also has resigned early and former Senator Lauren Book has announced for her seat.
Speaker Danny Perez has just been announced Ambassador to Brazil.
Several House members have resigned early as well. Representative Jenna Persons Mulicka has been appointed by the Governor as Lee County Supervisor of Elections.
Rep Griff Griffitts has resigned early to become the President and CEO of Visit Panama City Beach Florida.
The Special session on the budget had us working through Memorial Day weekend with the members voting the budget out on Friday May 29th.
The Governor called the legislature back in on the property tax issue June 1-3rd and the legislators just completed their work this afternoon June 2nd.
The Primary is August 18th so campaign season is well underway.
Busy times in the Capitol city.
Looking forward to seeing everyone at the Summer FRS Meeting in Orlando.
Best,
Alison Dudley Lobbyist, FRS
alisondudley@dudleyandassociates.com