Thank you to everyone who took the time to respond to the action alert we sent out on Monday regarding HB 7055 concerning homeschool distance learning and tutoring programs! Your efforts made a difference! When the bill was heard in committee on Tuesday, the sponsor of the strike-all amendment, Sen. Passidomo (R-Naples), shared she did not realize how the changes in the bill would affect homeschoolers and promised to address these concerns with an amendment on the Senate floor. She kept her word, and in a strike-all amendment on the floor on Friday, the concerning language was removed from the bill.

In other legislative news, it has been a very busy week here in Tallahassee as legislators have been working hard to come to an agreement on the state budget (the only bill they are required to pass) and to develop a comprehensive plan to address school safety after the Parkland shooting. Budget conference committees for both the House and Senate are meeting over the weekend and the Senate is in session today to discuss their school safety proposal. 

Both chambers have held multiple committees this week to develop legislation to address school safety concerns. On Monday, the Senate Rules Committee meeting was packed with gun control advocates in bright orange shirts. The three and a half hour meeting was dedicated solely to discussing SB 7026, the Senate’s proposed response to the Parkland shooting. Those in favor of comprehensive gun reform, including an “assault weapons ban” which would outlaw nearly all guns, showed their disapproval for the proposal by disrupting the committee with shouts, personal attacks, yelling into the microphone when giving public comments and chanting “shame” and “vote them out.” Despite repeated attempts by the Senate Rules Chair to keep the crowd under control, the entire meeting was chaos. 

Tuesday, the Senate Appropriations Committee met to discuss the bill. Chairman Bradley (R-Orange Park) made it crystal clear to the audience that none of the disruptions from the previous day would be tolerated in his committee. The 7-hour meeting was very long and primarily focused on two bills–the school safety bill (SB 7026) and HB 7055, the House omnibus education package, which includes dozens of education reforms and proposals from other bills considered this session. Both bills passed the committee and were sent to the floor. HB 7055 was discussed and amended by the full Senate on Friday and the school safety proposal is being discussed as we speak. We expect HB 7055 to pass the Senate Monday and be sent back to the House for a vote.

Monday is destined to be a action-packed day with major legislation being considered on gambling, education and possibly school safety. Monday is also the 55th day of the Legislative Session, which means that bills that haven’t passed all their committees are dead for this session. Legislators are hopeful that they will have a final budget on Tuesday. After they introduce the budget, legislators are given 72 hours to review the bill prior to voting on it. Leadership in the House and Senate have indicated they believe session will end on time (next Friday, Mar 9th).

Here are some exciting events happening around the state we hope you will attend: 

Strengthening the Black Family Forum
We are pleased to partner with the Douglass Leadership Institute to present the Strengthening the Black Family forum in Pompano Beach on Saturday, March 17. This free forum event will celebrate the importance of family in the black community while highlighting the challenges facing many children today due to single parent households, divorce and poverty. During the event, participants will also hear from and receive leadership training from respected political and policy experts, including FFPC’s President John Stemberger and Rev. Dean Nelson, chairman of the Douglass Leadership Institute. The goal of this Saturday morning conference is to discuss how black churches and families can be strengthened, as black American families are disproportionately disadvantaged in many ways.

Details:
Saturday, March 17, 2018 | 9 am -12 pm EST
Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church
890 NW 15th Street, Pompano Beach, FL 33060
To register for the event, click here or contact Kevrick McKain at 919-935-9220.

Upcoming Florida Constitution Revision Commission Hearings (Cape Coral, St. Petersburg)
Your voice is needed at one of the upcoming historic hearings of the 2017-2018 Florida Constitutional Revision Commission (CRC) scheduled during the next few weeks. Hearings are currently scheduled for Cape Coral on 3/5 and St. Petersburg on 3/13. For more information on what is happening and what is needed click here. 

Christianity & Culture Conference
This conference is designed to help people of all ages develop a biblical worldview and think and live according to these principles. The worldview training will be provided by Worldview Academy in Titusville April 20-21. An early bird registration of $20 is available until Sunday, March 4. 

Details:
Friday, April 20 to Saturday, April 21, 2018
Trinity Community Church, 6750 S. Washington Avenue, Titusville, FL 32780
Register for the event here.

Transforming Florida Truth Project Reunion
Join us Saturday, April 28 as we celebrate Transforming Florida’s Truth Project Reunion. The event will be held in two parts–a morning training session with Dr. Tackett (creator of The Truth Project) who will be introducing his new series “The Engagement” and an evening reunion dinner with both he and Marc Fey. 

In addition to featured guests, the dinner will include testimonies from individuals whose lives were changed by The Truth Project and a special tribute to R.C. Sproul. Tickets are now available to attend the training, the dinner or both events.

Details:
Saturday, April 28, 2018
Hiers-Baxley Life Event Center, 3975 Wedgewood Lane, The Villages, FL 32162
To learn more or to register for this exciting event, click here. Early bird rates available until Thurs, March 15.

Now for this week’s update on our core legislative agenda! 

ADOPTION/FOSTER CARE
OPPOSE HB 357 / SB 576 Adoptee Birth Certificates
Sponsors: Rep. Richard Stark (D), Sen. Dennis Baxley (R)

This bill mandates opening up birth records to birth parents and adult adoptees (even without the consent of the birth parents in adoptions after July 1, 2018) by requiring the Florida Department of Health to issue noncertified copies of unaltered, original birth certificates to adoptees and birth parents.

Action Taken: None this Session. 

ABORTION
SUPPORT HB 1429 / SB 1890 Dismemberment Abortion
Sponsors: Rep. Erin Grall (R), Rep. Joe Gruters (R), Sen. Debbie Mayfield (R)

Prohibits dismemberment abortion, where an unborn child is killed by an abortionist using instruments to cut or rip the child’s body apart piece by piece and then extracts the pieces from the mother.

Action Taken: The House heard their version of the bill on Wednesday, and surprisingly, there were very few questions asked. The only questions came from a co-sponsor of the bill, Rep. Massullo (R-Beverly Hills) who confirmed with the sponsor for the benefit of the chamber, that the bill would in no way add any additional risk to the health of the mother of the unborn child.

On Thursday, the House debated and voted on the measure. Rep. Mercado (D-Orlando) spoke in opposition to the bill, claiming these new regulations would get in the way of a “woman’s right to choose.” In closing, Rep. Grall (R-Vero Beach) addressed Rep. Mercado’s statement, reminding her that many other medical procedures are regulated and that abortion should not be an exception. She said that abortion has been an untouchable subject far too long and now is the time to remember our humanity and show respect for life. The bill passed the chamber in a mostly party-line 72-42 vote and was sent over to the Senate for consideration. The Senate version has not been heard in any of its respective committees this year, meaning the bill is likely dead for the year. 

OPPOSE HB 1273 / SB 1718 Contraception Mandate
Sponsors: Rep. Holly Raschein (R), Sen. Lauren Book (D)

Mandates employers provide insurance plans which pay for contraception, including abortion-inducing drugs. The exemption for employers is limited to religious objections by religious nonprofits or small, privately-held companies and it requires notification of objection to providing coverage. Insurance companies are still required to provide coverage of contraception to employees who work for an exempt organization.

Action Taken: None this Session. 

OPPOSE HB 189 / SB 320 Abortion Clinics
Sponsors: Rep. Amy Mercado (D), Sen. Linda Stewart (D)

This bill prohibits anyone from interfering with women attempting to enter abortion clinics. Sidewalk counselors or protesters could face fines, civil suits, and criminal penalties for simply calling out to a woman to not abort her baby. This bill goes beyond prohibiting criminal and inappropriate interference with abortion facilities and limits free speech. 

Action Taken: None this Session. 

CULTURE
SUPPORT HR 157 / SR 480 Declaring Pornography a Public Health Risk 
Sponsors: Rep. Ross Spano (R), Sen. Kelli Stargel (R)

Recognizes the public health risk created by pornography and acknowledges the need for education, prevention, research, and policy change to protect Floridians.

Action Taken: Adopted by the House on 2/20. We remain hopeful that this resolution will prompt some much-needed discussions about the impact that pornography is having in our state. 

SUPPORT HB 839 / SB 1158 Display of State Motto in Public Schools
Sponsors: Rep. Daniels (D), Rep. Ponder (R), Sen. Perry (R)

Requires each Florida school and each school district building to prominently display the state motto “In God We Trust.”

Action Taken: Though the bill itself is likely dead for the year, the language was added by Sen. Passidomo (R-Naples) this week to a delete-all amendment to HB 7055, the House’s Prek-12 2018 education package. The amendment was adopted by the Senate on Friday via a voice vote, and the bill is expected to be voted on by the full Senate Monday.

EDUCATION
SUPPORT HB 731 / SB 732 Home Education
Sponsors: Rep. Jennifer Sullivan (R), Sen. Dennis Baxley (R)

Clarifies that a home education program is not a school district program and parents who wish to homeschool their children must register with the district school superintendent only for the purpose of complying with the state’s attendance requirements. It requires the district school superintendent to accept the parental notification and register the program upon receipt of the notice. The school district cannot require any additional information unless the student chooses to participate in their programs or services. The bill also stipulates that the content of a child’s portfolio shall be determined by the parent, not the school district. Finally, it allows school districts to provide homeschool students access to career and vocational courses and requires that industry certifications, national assessments, and statewide, standardized assessments offered by the school district be available to homeschool students. For homeschool students who are dual enrolled to earn college credit, the bill stipulates that course or program limitations may not exceed the limitations for other dually enrolled students.

Action Taken: The Senate bill was heard in its final committee, Appropriations, on Friday and passed unanimously. The bill will now head to the floor. The House version passed the House last week, and was sent to the Senate for consideration. Now that both bills are headed to the Senate floor, we hope the bill will be taken up by the full membership next week and passed out before session ends.

SUPPORT HB 1 / SB 1172 Hope Scholarship Program
Sponsors: Rep. Byron Donalds (R), Sen. Bill Galvano (R)

Establishes the Hope Scholarship for students after an incident of battery, harassment, hazing, bullying, kidnapping, robbery, sexual offenses, harassment, assault, threat or intimidation. The student will have an opportunity to transfer to another public school or to apply for a scholarship to attend a private school. Scholarship funds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Action Taken: The bill was heard by the House Friday and will be voted on Monday. During questions, the bill sponsor addressed concerns from members regarding how the program is funded, student eligibility requirements, funding accountability, and if the bully would also receive behavioral health assistance and be eligible for the scholarship if he was also bullied, among others. One of the biggest concerns raised by Democrats was that the program would take away funding from the public school district. The sponsor assured them the funding sources were not related. Rep. Hardemon (D-Miami) even came out and accused the sponsor of running someone else’s bill and asked if Rep. Donalds (R-Naples) disliked public schools.

The sponsor amended the bill on the floor to make the program immediately effective upon becoming law, and Rep. Shevrin Jones (D-West Park) added an amendment to ensure both the bully and victim have access to behavioral counseling. He also filed a strike-all amendment to the bill but withdrew it after assurances his concerns would be dealt with when the House receives the Senate’s version of the bill. Other amendments adopted included conforming and technical language to place the Hope Scholarship in line with accountability and program requirements for the McKay and Gardiner scholarships.

The language of this bill is also included in HB 7055, which was discussed by the Senate on Friday. HB 7055 is expected to be voted on by the full Senate on Monday.

FREE SPEECH
SUPPORT HB 909 / SB 1234 Free Speech Zones on Campus
Sponsors: Rep. Rommel (R), Rep. Clemons (R), Sen. Baxley (R)

Protects the right of free speech outdoors on public campuses of higher education such as state colleges, universities, law schools, etc. Prohibits a public college, university, law school, etc. from creating “free speech zones” or restricting free expression except in cases that are reasonable and content-neutral. No student, faculty or staff member would be allowed to materially disrupt another individual or organization’s scheduled or reserved activities. If a violation occurs, the Attorney General or the person whose rights were violated may take the violator to court within one year of the violation for reasonable compensation. 

Action Taken: Last week, the the House bill was amended to become the vehicle for the House’s higher education package. On Friday, the House considered the bill on the floor. The bill is expected to be voted on Monday by the full membership.

Rep. Rommel (R-Naples) says he plans to amend the free expression language in the bill Monday to limit the legal cause of action students can bring against other students, university faculty and staff for violating their free expression to just against the university. There had been some concern that as the bill currently stands, some students would be discouraged from speaking or counter-protesting another’s speech in fear of being sued.

Predictably, extreme examples were brought up on the floor to argue against legal action even against universities. Rep. Alexander (D-Tallahassee) asked if FAMU would be sued if the KKK hosted a rally on campus and their speech incited a riot. The bill sponsor reminded him that the university could be sued only if the group were prohibited from speaking on campus.

An amendment was introduced to the bill by Rep. Guillermo Smith (D-Orlando) to completely remove a student’s recourse for legal action against the university for violation of speech. After a failed voice vote, 5 representatives raised their hands calling for a recorded vote. The vote was 39-74 against the amendment. 

GAMBLING
OPPOSE HB 223 / SB 374 Fantasy Contests
Sponsors: Rep. Jason Brodeur (R), Sen. Dana Young (R)

Exempts fantasy gaming contests such as fantasy sports leagues from being subject to gambling penalties and regulations. In effect, legalizing fantasy gambling.

Action Taken: None this week. 

OPPOSE SB 840 Legalizing Fantasy and Designated Player Games/Expanding Slot Machines
Sponsor: Sen. Travis Hutson (R)

In addition to exempting fantasy gaming from state gambling regulations, this bill would remove the requirement that greyhound, thoroughbred, quarter horse and harness horse permit holders conduct live racing at their pari-mutuel facilities in order to be eligible for or keep their slot machine and cardroom licenses. This bill would allow these facilities to take wagers for intertrack races and simulcasts. It would also legalize designated player games (playing against a designated player rather than the house). 

Action Taken: The Senate bill was heard in its final committee, Appropriations, Friday. The bill is the Senate’s 2018 gaming proposal and significantly differs from the House’s proposal. The Senate’s bill would expand slot machines to the counties that voted for them, expand the games offered under the Seminole Gaming Compact by the tribe, and would remove the requirement for live racing to be performed for a parimutuel to have slot machines. The sponsor of the bill, Sen. Hutson (R-Palm Coast) in his close on the bill indicated hope that the Senate would pass the bill on the floor and enter into conference negotiations with the House to align their respective legislation. The bill passed the committee 16-4.

With Amendment 3 (Voter Control of Gambling) on the ballot in the fall, the pressure is on for legislators to pass comprehensive gaming legislation before the end of session. On Friday, the Florida House considered their 2018 gaming bill, which mainly ratifies a 2018 Gaming Compact with the Seminole Tribe of Florida. This compact would largely keep gambling in the state at the status quo for the next 20 years.

Questions were raised on the floor about whether the counties that voted in recent years to introduce slot machines would be allowed to have them under this agreement. There was also some debate over what a slot machine really is. Under the current House bill, the definition of a slot machine would be expanded in Florida statute to include “pre-reveal” casino games, games that show the player the outcome of the game before they’re played. Rep. Jacquet (D-Lantana) introduced an amendment on the floor to remove the language from the bill, claiming that if someone already knows the outcome of the game, it is neither a risk nor chance. The amendment failed. Another bill by Rep. Plakon (R-Longwood) with the same expanded language regarding the definition of slot machines was heard by the House Friday. Both bills are expected to be voted on by the full House during Monday’s session.

As there is just one week left in Session, it is fairly unlikely that the chambers will choose to conference over this legislation, but something may be in the works behind the scenes. There is a consensus that a new Seminole Compact needs to be authorized this year.  

OPPOSE HB 1293 / SB 1802 Preview Games and Machines
Sponsor: Rep. Al Jacquet (D), Sen. Perry Thurston Jr. (D)

Legalizes preview or pre-reveal machines, slot machines which draw individuals in by revealing the prize before the game is started.  A Florida judge has already ruled the machines constitute gambling. 

Action Taken: None this Session. 

HUMAN TRAFFICKING
SUPPORT HB 167 / SB 1044 Civil Action for Human Trafficking Victims
Sponsors: Rep. Ross Spano (R), Sen. Lauren Book (D)

Allows a victim of human trafficking to bring a civil cause of action against a human trafficker or facilitator (a person or business who aids in or turns a blind eye to human trafficking activities). Under this provision, a victim of human trafficking could receive payment for medical bills, mental health services, repatriation, etc. as well as monetary damages for pain, loss, trauma, etc. A trafficker or facilitator would also be liable under this section to provide an additional $100,000 in damages to the Trust Fund for Victims of Human Trafficking (established by HB 169/SB 1046) and, in some cases, additional damages to law enforcement to aid in future human trafficking rescue efforts. Punitive damages would be equally divided between the victim and the trust fund.

Action Taken: None this week.

SUPPORT HB 169 / SB 1046 Trust Fund for Victims of Human Trafficking
Sponsors: Rep. Ross Spano (R), Sen. Lauren Book (D)

Creates the Trust Fund for Victims of Human Trafficking and Prevention within the Department of Law Enforcement.  This fund would be funded by penalties and damages obtained under as referenced in HB 167 / SB 1044 and other sources, including funds appropriated by the Legislature. The trust fund would be used to assist victims of human trafficking with medical and mental health exams and treatment, living expenses, lost wages and repatriation. The funds could also be used for a variety of education and prevention efforts, creating a survivor’s resource center, or for vacating convictions against trafficking victims incurred due to trafficking, etc.

Action Taken: The Senate bill was heard by the Senate Friday and will be voted on Monday. The House version is still on the 2nd reading calendar in the House.

SUPPORT HB 7039 / SB 1502 Increased Penalties for Human Trafficking
Sponsors: House Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Rep. Ross Spano (R), Sen. Lauren Book (D)

Requires a 10-year minimum mandatory imprisonment sentence for any individual, who knowingly or recklessly without regards to the facts, engages in, attempts to engage in, or financially benefits from human trafficking. Removes fees to expunge certain portions of criminal records for victims of human trafficking as it relates to their trafficking. Redefines the term “Adult Entertainment Establishment” to include additional adult-style businesses.

Action Taken: The House bill was heard Friday and will be voted on Monday. No action has been taken on the Senate bill. 

LIFE
SUPPORT HB 41 / SB 444 Pregnancy Support Services
Sponsors: Rep. Jackie Toledo (R), Sen. Aaron Bean (R)

Requires the Florida Department of Health to contract with the Florida Pregnancy Care Network (FPCN) to provide pregnancy support services for women who suspect or know they are pregnant. FPCN would then provide support to pregnant women and address their wellness needs. The bill requires FPCN subcontractors to promote and support childbirth only. All services provided must be voluntary and cannot include religious content.

Action Taken: None this week. It has already passed both chambers, we are just waiting for it to be sent to the governor. 

LGBT
OPPOSE HB 347 / SB 66 Creating Special Rights for LGBT Citizens or “Florida’s Competitive Workforce Act”
Sponsors: Rep. Ben Diamond (D), Rep. Rene Plasencia (R), Sen. Darryl Rouson (D)

The worst bill in the Florida Legislature because of its effect on public safety and freedom of conscience. It adds sexual orientation and gender identity or expression to Florida’s Civil Rights Act of 1992 as impermissible grounds for discrimination. This bill provides a new way for LGBT individuals to sue employers and small businesses for discrimination.  Would allow men access to use women’s showers, locker rooms, and bathrooms.

A full list of House and Senate co-sponsors.

Action Taken:  None this Session.

OPPOSE HB 717 / SB 696 Banning Conversion Therapy
Sponsors: Rep. Evan Jenne (D) / Sen. Jose Rodriguez (D)

This bill makes it unlawful for people in Florida who are licensed to provide professional counseling and others, like pastors who are licensed counselors, to counsel youth under the age of 18 struggling with their “sexual orientation and/or gender identity” to think and live in a heterosexual manner consistent with their biological gender, even if the child (as the patient) asks for their help to do so. 

Action Taken: None this Session.  

MARRIAGE
SUPPORT HB 1323 / SB 1580 Florida Guide to a Healthy Marriage  
Sponsors: Rep. Clay Yarborough (R), Rep. Danny Burgess (R), Sen. Kelli Stargel (R)

Creates the Marriage Education Committee, which is tasked with developing the Florida Guide to a Healthy Marriage, which is required to include resources on conflict management, communication skills, family expectations, financial responsibilities and management, domestic violence, and parenting responsibilities; current information from marriage education and family advocates to assist in forming and maintaining a long-term marital relationship; and information regarding premarital education, marriage enrichment education, and resources that are available to help restore a marriage that is potentially moving toward dissolution. Clerks will be responsible for posting the guide on their websites and individuals applying for a marriage certificate must certify that they have read it or similar resources.

Action Taken: None this week. 

OPPOSE HB 130 / SB 6027 Same-Sex Marriage
Sponsors: Rep. David Richardson (D), Sen. Gary Farmer (D)

Removes the language in state statute which prohibited same-sex couples from marrying and the State of Florida from recognizing same-sex marriages from other states.

Action Taken: None this Session.

RELIGIOUS LIBERTY
SUPPORT HB 871 / SB 1290 Free Enterprise Protection Act
Sponsors: Rep. Jay Fant (R), Sen. Dennis Baxley (R)

Prohibits any level of state government or individual acting on behalf of the state from discriminating against a business based upon their internal personnel or employee benefits policies or their exercise of free speech and religion as protected under the Florida and federal Constitutions. The state and its subdivisions would be prohibited from revoking tax exemptions and benefits; denying grants, certifications, licenses, etc.; and access and entitlement to property, facilities and speech forums, among other provisions.

Action Taken: None this Session.

The post Legislative Insider’s Report from Tallahassee – Week 8 of 9 appeared first on Florida Family Action.

We hope this message finds you and your family well and that you had a blessed celebration of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ this past weekend.

We are sorry that we missed sending you week 5 of our Insider’s Report, but we’ve included it in this week’s report.  The Legislature slowed down a bit in Week 6 because of Passover and Good Friday, but for the days that the Legislature was in session this week, each chamber began passing their version of the budget and most of the normal committee meetings were canceled.

The Constitution Revision Commission (CRC) met in Tallahassee this past week and several local residents made statements at the public hearing held at Florida A&M University. At every city the CRC has held a public hearing in thus far, many citizen’s have testified and expressed concerned about Article 1, Section 23, Florida’s Privacy Clause which was enacted in 1980 by a vote of 60% of voters to protect citizens from the government collecting private information.  But nine years after it was passed in 1989, the Florida Supreme Court ignored the legislative intent and history of the amendment and suddenly found a fundamental right to abortion for a minor child in the clause in case of In Re: T.W. A Minor, 551 So. 2d 1186 (1989).  There has been a strong show of support of pro-lifers and constitutionalists asking the CRC to fix the privacy clause. Planned Parenthood supporters are also appearing asking the CRC to protect Florida’s very strong right to abortion. Interestingly, none of the mainstream media covering the hearings have reported this issue accurately.  We reported several weeks ago that our President, John Stemberger was appointed for the next year and a half to the CRC by Florida Speaker of the House Richard Corcoran.  The CRC only gathers every 20 years as per the Florida Constitution.  For more information on upcoming public hearings in Gainesville, Jacksonville, Panama City and Tampa check out the official website at FloridaCRC.gov.

During Week 5, there was a move by Rep. David Richardson (D) to add non-discrimination language for sexual orientation and gender identity to a bill regulating ridesharing companies (i.e. Uber, Lyft).  Rep. Richardson who is one of two openly gay-identified legislators in Florida, filed two separate amendments to the bill.  The first stated that these services are public accommodations and adding the non-discrimination language to the law governing public accommodations (adding some of the most controversial parts of the Competitive Workforce Act to statute). This amendment failed in a voice vote. Rep. Richardson then moved to the next proposed amendment which would require each company’s non-discrimination policy to include sexual orientation and gender identity. This also failed in a voice vote, but Democrats then forced a roll call vote (meaning we know how each member voted).  We expect to see more of these types of moves in the future and will be on the lookout for them.

The biggest news out of Week 6 in the Legislature was in the House during Floor Debate on a controversial bill which allocates $200 million to “Schools of Hope”.  Schools of Hope are charter schools which are established within 5 miles of perpetually failing schools; however, the organizations establishing these schools must have a proven track record of success within impoverished communities.  Prior to the debate, Rep. Shevrin Jones (D) held a press conference with Tallahassee mayor and extreme left wing Democrat, gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum opposing the bill.  All told, the House spent over five hours debating the measure this week before passing it 77-40 along party lines.  The Senate then picked up the bill but refused to pass the House language meaning it will be sent to committee.

Now for the action report from Amber Kelly, our Communications and Political Director, on the bills that we’re most closely monitoring…

GOOD BILLS

ADOPTION / FOSTER CARE 

HB 363 / SB 200 Temporary Respite Care for Families in Crisis
Sponsors: Rep. Frank White (R), Rep. Patricia Williams (D), Sen. Kathleen Passidomo (R)

This bill helps families in crisis by allowing parents to place their children with respite care families temporarily while they work to better the situation for the entire family (whether it is seeking treatment for addiction, finding a job, etc.) This program is for families where there are no allegations of abuse/neglect which would cause DCF to remove the children from their home.

The Senate version was heard in its first committee during Week 5.  Despite the 5-0 vote in favor of the bill, senators expressed concern about some of the provisions of the bill. Some of the senators’ concerns were based on a misunderstanding of the situations in which the program operates. Specifically, some senators were concerned that the program is for families dealing with troubled youth, which is not the case.  The Family Law section of the Florida Bar opposes the bill; it appears their opposition is solely because they believe lawyers need to be involved in the process and a foster-care lite system should be implemented. Florida Family Action is continuing to support the bill and encourage senators to support this highly successful, worthwhile program. The Senate Judiciary committee will be hearing the bill next Wednesday.

The full House heard this bill in second reading on Tuesday and passed it in a 96-16 vote on Wednesday. The nay votes primarily centered around concerns over notifying a non-custodial parent that the custodial parent was going to enter into a respite care agreement.  Rep. Lori Berman (D) proposed two amendments to require notification prior to an agreement, which does not always work in crisis situations requiring immediate care or changing the notification period from five days to two. Both amendments failed.

LIFE 

HB 969 / SB 1130 Pregnancy Support Services 
Sponsors: Rep. Jackie Toledo (R) and Sen. Aaron Bean (R)

This bill would require the Department of Health to contract with a network of crisis pregnancy centers to provide support services for women who suspect or know they are pregnant for the term of their pregnancy through the first year of the child’s life.  The services provided cannot be noncoercive nor contain religious content.

The full House heard this bill in second reading during Week 5 and passed it in a 79-38 vote, but not before House Democrats spent both days grilling bill sponsor Rep. Jackie Toledo (R).  Claiming that they were concerned with center standards and rising costs, Democrats opposed this bill. Perhaps the most shocking statements were made regarding ensuring that women had access to abortions and their opposition to providers who were pro-life.  If you have a few extra moments, be sure to thank Rep. Toledo for her sponsorship of this bill and standing strong during the hours she was questioned on the House floor.

The Senate version of this bill is scheduled to be heard in its second committee stop (of three) next Tuesday. While time is running short, this bill can still pass this legislative session.

EDUCATION 

HB 1391 / SB 1556 Clarifying Homeschool Requirements 
Sponsors: Rep. Eric Eisnaugle (R), Sen. Tom Lee (R)

This bill seeks to ensure that school districts cannot interfere with a family’s decision to homeschool once they are provided proper notice unless they receive corroborated outside evidence that the children are not being educated properly.

The House bill was very quickly passed out of its final committee on Thursday morning during week 5 in a unanimous vote by the Education Committee.  It is headed to the floor of the House, but the Senate version has yet to pass its first committee. The Senate bill was heard in a workshop this week but has not been scheduled for a vote.  FFA requested that the committee chair schedule the bill for a vote, but it has not yet been granted.

HB 833 / SB 692 Revising Student Eligibility for Virtual School 
Sponsors: Rep. Jennifer Sullivan (R), Sen. Dennis Baxley (R)

This bill removes a requirement that 2nd through 5th graders be enrolled in a public school in the year prior to enrolling in virtual school.

The House bill passed favorably out of its final committee unanimously and is now on 2^nd reading in the House.  It has not yet been put on the Special Order calendar to be heard.

The Senate version was heard in an Education Committee workshop but has not yet been voted on to pass it to the next committee.  A similar bill, SB 868, which includes provisions regarding open enrollment and Florida Virtual School is scheduled to be heard next Tuesday in its second (of three) committee.

HB 15 / SB 1314 Expanding the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship Program
Sponsors: Rep. Jennifer Sullivan (R), Sen. Denise Grimsley (R)

This bill expands the students who are eligible for the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship Program.

The House bill passed out of its final committee and is scheduled to be heard in the full House next Tuesday. During its final committee stop, the bill was amended to once again include an expansion of the Gardiner Scholarship Program (which had been removed during its first committee stop due to funding concerns).

The Senate version was scheduled to be heard by the Education Committee but wasn’t during week 5.  It is once again scheduled for consideration in that committee for next Monday. The Education Committee is the first stop out of four total for the Senate bill so it must start moving quickly if it is to pass this year.

HB 549 / SB 906 Publication of State Assessment Tests for Parental and Educational Review 
Sponsors: Rep. Randy Fine (R), Sen. Greg Steube (R), House PreK-12 Quality Subcommittee

This bill seeks to require the publication of certain state assessment tests every three years.  Currently, no one has access to the questions on these exams, including the Department of Education nor any government officials.  Students are being told that they cannot tell anyone the content of test questions, including their parents.

The House PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee passed its version of the bill unanimously, but it has not yet been scheduled to be heard in Education (the final stop).  The Senate bill still has not been scheduled for a vote in its first committee (although it has been workshopped).

GAMING 

HB 7037 Addressing Gambling Long-Term 
Sponsor: Rep. Mike La Rosa (R) and the Tourism & Gaming Control Subcommittee

This bill will constrict or freeze gambling in Florida by requiring the Governor to renegotiate the state’s compact with the Seminole Tribe, with terms for a 20-year contract.

This bill was scheduled to be heard by the full House during week 5. Upon the introduction of the bill, the House picked up the Senate gambling bill (SB 8) and amended it to conform it to HB 7037.  During both the 2^nd and 3^rd reading, while some members chose to participate in questions and debate, it was largely understood that a conference committee would be convened to negotiate the vast differences between the chambers’ bills.  The bill was passed 73-40, along party lines.  The Senate refused to concur and a conference committee has been announced with the following members: Sen. Galvano (Alternating Chair – R), Rep. J Felix Diaz (Alternating Chair -R), Sen. Benacquisto (R), Sen. Braynon (D), Sen. Flores (R), Rep. Geller (D), Sen. Hutson (R), Rep. La Rosa (R), Rep. Metz (R), Rep. Moskowitz (D), Rep. Nunez (R).and Sen. Thurston (D).  It remains to be seen whether the House and Senate will be able to come to terms regarding gaming this year.  FFA continues to encourage the House to stay strong on its bill to restrict the expansion of gaming long-term.

HB 937 / SB 1370 Warnings for Lottery Games
Sponsors: Rep. Jennifer Sullivan (R), Sen. Keith Perry (R), House Tourism & Gaming Control Subcommittee

This bill would require a warning placed on lottery tickets that lottery games can be addictive.

The bill was heard in the Senate Regulated Industries Committee (first of three committees) and passed 7-3. Sen. Gibson (D) opposed the bill because she does not believe the lottery is gambling. There was no action on the House version of the bill.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING 

HB 1383 / SB 852 Child Victims of Human Trafficking 
Sponsors: Rep. Jeanette Nuñez (R), Sen. Rene Garcia (R)

This bill seeks to help children who have been the victims of sex trafficking by requiring the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to maintain a database of services available for victims of commercial sexual exploitation, increases the situations in which a defendant’s confession may be used at trial, outlines procedures for assisting victims, and requires officials to follow up with victims within six months to evaluate services used and their effectiveness.

The House bill passed out of its final committee unanimously and is on 2^nd reading for consideration by the full House.  The Senate version was passed out of its final committee, was placed on the Special Order calendar, and is scheduled for 3^rd reading and final vote next Tuesday.

HB 1165 / SB 972 Florida Compensation Trust Fund for Survivors of Human Trafficking
Sponsor: Rep. Ross Spano (R), House Civil Justice and Claims Subcommittee

This bill allows victims of human trafficking to sue the individuals who engaged in their trafficking.

The House version has passed out of its final committee and will be placed on the 2^nd reading calendar next week.  The Senate version had been scheduled to be heard in its first committee during week 5, but was postponed.  The bill is scheduled to be heard in its first committee next week and will also be heard in its second committee (Judiciary) if the first committee passes it favorably.  We thank Sen. Greg Steube (R), who chairs Senate Judiciary, for placing it on his agenda this week.

RELIGIOUS LIBERTY 

HB 303 / SB 436 Religious Liberty in Public Schools or “Florida Student and School Personnel Religious Liberties Act” 
Sponsors: Rep. Kim Daniels (D), Rep. Patricia Williams (D), Sen. Dennis Baxley (R)

This bill codifies the current state of religious liberty in public schools. It prohibits a school district from discriminating against students, parents, or school personnel on the basis of religious viewpoints or expression and clarifies that a school cannot penalize or reward a student’s religious expression in their coursework, artwork, or other specified assignments.  It provides equal access to all religions and non-religions before, during, and after school.

This bill was placed on the Special Order Calendar in week 5. Once the bill was read, the Senate version was picked up and amended to conform to the House version of the bill.  With very little fanfare, the bill was passed 114-3 and sent back to the Senate to either concur or refuse (sending it to conference). It remains to be seen what will happen with the bill, although Senate President Negron opened session stating that this bill was a priority for him.

ISRAEL

HB 281 / SB 574 Opposing United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2334
Sponsors: Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D), Sen. Kevin Rader (D)

This Resolution pronounces that the Legislature opposes and requests the repeal or fundamental alteration of UN Resolution 2334, which stated that Israel’s settlement activity constitutes a flagrant violation of international law, has no legal validity and is a major obstacle to the vision of two states living side-by-side in peace and security.  It calls on the US to ensure that the UN Resolution is no longer one-sided and anti-Israel and authorizes all final-status issues toward a two-state solution to be resolved through direct, bilateral negotiations between the parties involved.

The Senate adopted the Resolution by voice vote during week 5.

BAD BILLS 

LGBT RIGHTS

HB 623 / SB 666 Creating Special Rights for LGBT Citizens or “Florida’s Competitive Workforce Act” 
Sponsors: Rep. Ben Diamond (D), Rep. Rene Plasencia (R), Sen. Jeff Clemens (D)

The CWA adds sexual orientation and gender identity or expression to Florida’s Civil Rights Act of 1992 as impermissible grounds for discrimination. This bill provides a new way for LGBT individuals to sue employers and small businesses for discrimination and would allow men access to use women’s showers, locker rooms, bathrooms, women’s domestic violence shelters, etc.

This bill which we have described as the worst bill proposed in the Florida Legislature due to its effect on public safety and religious liberty has not been scheduled to be heard in committee.  We continue to educate legislators on the dangers of this piece of legislation, and it continues to be dead on arrival despite some liberal Republican support.

GAMBLING

SB 8 Gaming Expansion Bill 
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Galvano (R)

This bill was amended by the House to conform to its good gambling bill. The Senate refused to concur and the two chambers will convene in conference to iron out their differences. The following legislators were named to the conference committee:  Sen. Galvano (Alternating Chair – R), Rep. J Felix Diaz (Alternating Chair -R), Sen. Benacquisto (R), Sen. Braynon (D), Sen. Flores (R), Rep. Geller (D), Sen. Hutson (R), Rep. La Rosa (R), Rep. Metz (R), Rep. Moskowitz (D), Rep. Nunez (R).and Sen. Thurston (D).  It remains to be seen whether the House and Senate will be able to come to terms regarding gaming this year.  FFA continues to encourage the House to stay strong in its resolve to restrict the expansion of gaming long-term.

HB 149 / SB 592 Fantasy Gaming
Sponsors: Rep. Jason Brodeur (R), Sen. Dana Young (R)

The bill effectively legalizes fantasy sports contests in Florida and states that it is not gambling.

This bill unanimously passed the House Ways & Means Committee (second of three committees) during Week 5. This bill has met with no resistance in the House to date. While the Senate companion has not moved, the larger Senate gaming bill (SB 8) does address fantasy gaming.  If the two chambers are able to come to an agreement on a gambling bill, we wonder if this might be part of the package.

ALCOHOL

HB 81 / SB 106 Hard Liquor in Grocery Stores 
Sponsors: Rep. Bryan Avila (R), Sen. Anitere Flores (R)

Dubbed “Whiskey and Wheaties,” this bill would allow grocery stores and large retail stores to sell hard liquor in their main store rather than building or renting a separate store to sell liquor.

This bill was placed on the Special Order Calendar for the 2^nd time and then postponed once again while the House was in session.  Rep. Scott Plakon (R) proposed two amendments to the bill which opponents say are meant to kill the bill. One of the measures would require all store employees in a retail store selling hard liquor to be at least 21 years of age.  Rep. Plakon believes this is good public policy and expands the choices that retailers currently have; it allows them to sell alcohol in their main store but ensures that those who are underage won’t be responsible for liquor sales.

With two postponements and the fact that it hasn’t been scheduled for the third time, we believe this bill is dead for the year.

The post Legislative Insider’s Report: Weeks 5/6 of 9 appeared first on Florida Family Action.

Before we delve into what happened in Tallahassee this week, we wanted to remind you of the Constitution Revision Commission (CRC), which held its first public hearing this week. The CRC is convened every 20 years for the purpose of reviewing the state constitution and proposing amendments which are placed on the ballot in the next statewide election.  Despite the late notice of the meeting, the venue was packed, and many progressive organizations were able to turn out their supporters for the meeting. The Gainesville Sun printed a recap of the meeting which you may want to take a moment to read.  Please make plans to attend the CRC meeting in your area and bring ideas of what you want to see in the Florida Constitution. Currently, the following meetings are scheduled:

Miami-Dade County, Thursday, April 6 from 5-8 p.m., Florida International University (FIU), Frost Art Museum, 10975 SW 17th St, Miami, FL 33199. (Free parking will be available)

Palm Beach County / Boca Raton. Friday, April 7 from 9 a.m. – noon, Florida Atlantic University (FAU), FAU Stadium Recruiting Room (located indoors), 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL. 33431. (Free parking will be available)

The website for the CRC is flcrc.gov.  If a meeting hasn’t been announced in your area yet, please check out the CRC website periodically and our Facebook and Twitter accounts for breaking news and information.

Now for what happened at the Capitol Complex this week!  We are almost halfway through Legislative Session this year, and it ended up being a fairly busy week for education bills, which is great news as legislators are looking to give Florida’s students as many educational options as possible.  Both the House and the Senate released their proposed budgets this week and will begin to shift some of their focus to ironing out those details.  Some of the subcommittees had their final meetings for the year, and so this is the point where bills begin to die if they are not moving through the process.  We are continuing to work hard to see that good legislation is passed this year.

For a full list of bills that Florida Family Action is supporting or opposing this year, go check out our website.

GOOD BILLS

ADOPTION / FOSTER CARE 

HB 363 / SB 200 Temporary Respite Care for Families in Crisis
Sponsors: Rep. Frank White (R), Rep. Patricia Williams (D), Sen. Kathleen Passidomo (R)

This bill helps families in crisis by allowing parents to place their children with respite care families temporarily while they work to better the situation for the entire family (whether it is seeking treatment for addiction, finding a job, etc.) This program is for families where there are no allegations of abuse/neglect which would cause DCF to remove the children from their home.

The Senate bill will be heard by its first committee on Monday.  The full House will hear the bill on Tuesday with an expected vote by the full House on Wednesday.

LIFE

HB 969 / SB 1130 Pregnancy Support Services 
Sponsors: Rep. Jackie Toledo (R) and Sen. Aaron Bean (R)

This bill would require the Department of Health to contract with a network of crisis pregnancy centers to provide support services for women who suspect or know they are pregnant for the term of their pregnancy through the first year of the child’s life.  The services provided cannot be noncoercive nor contain religious content.

Despite the fact that Planned Parenthood sent some of its supporters to oppose this bill, it cleared its final House committee on Thursday in an 11-5 vote.  Opponents spoke against the bill, which in no way mentions Planned Parenthood or limits a woman’s right to an abortion, on the basis that religious counseling may occur (which is prohibited in the bill), staff credentials, and questions over whether audits of the facilities were conducted (the contract with the Department of Health requires them).  What was clear is that Planned Parenthood is only pro-choice if you make their choice – an abortion.  Crisis pregnancy centers offer support and valuable services, not just when a woman is pregnant, but even after she has her baby (for the first year of its life).

The House version is scheduled to be heard by the full House next Tuesday.  The Senate bill is still in the committee process – the second committee stop is the Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services which is not scheduled to meet again until April 13th.

EDUCATION 

This week was very busy for education bills in both the House and the Senate.  Besides the bills listed below, committee bills were rolled out in the House which would make significant changes to education – namely one that would allow charter school organizations with high success rates in poverty-stricken communities to build schools near perpetually failing schools and one that would provide funding for charter schools. Neither of these proposed bills were without controversy. Opponents of both bills wanted to see additional tax dollars given to traditional schools in hopes that they would improve rather than allow charter schools to compete or receive funding taxpayer dollars.  While charter schools are public schools, opponents saw them as competition rather than an additional tool in the public school arsenal to help educate Florida’s youth.

HB 1391 / SB 1556 Clarifying Homeschool Requirements 
Sponsors: Rep. Eric Eisnaugle (R), Sen. Tom Lee (R)

This bill seeks to ensure that school districts cannot interfere with a family’s decision to homeschool once they are provided proper notice unless they receive corroborated outside evidence that the children are not being educated properly.

The House bill was very quickly passed out of its final committee on Thursday morning in a unanimous vote by the Education Committee.  It is headed to the floor of the House, but the Senate version has yet to pass its first committee. The Senate bill was heard in a workshop this week but has not been scheduled for a vote next week. If it is not heard the following week for a vote, it may be dead for the year.

HB 833 / SB 692 Revising Student Eligibility for Virtual School 
Sponsors: Rep. Jennifer Sullivan (R), Sen. Dennis Baxley (R)

This bill removes a requirement that 2nd through 5th graders be enrolled in a public school in the year prior to enrolling in virtual school.

The House bill passed favorably out of its second committee unanimously and has one more stop before heading to the floor for a vote by the full House.  The Senate version was heard in an Education Committee workshop on Monday but was not voted on.  It will need to be scheduled for a vote before it can move forward.

HB 15 / SB 1314 Expanding the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship Program
Sponsors: Rep. Jennifer Sullivan (R), Sen. Denise Grimsley (R)

This bill expands the students who are eligible for the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship Program.

The House bill passed out of its second committee this week in a 12-3 vote.  It has one more committee stop before heading to the floor for a vote by the full House. The Senate version was heard in an Education Committee workshop on Monday and has been scheduled for a vote in that committee for next Monday. The Education Committee is the first stop out of four total for the Senate bill so it must start moving quickly if it is to pass this year.

HB 549 / SB 906 Publication of State Assessment Tests for Parental and Educational Review 
Sponsors: Rep. Randy Fine (R), Sen. Greg Steube (R), House PreK-12 Quality Subcommittee

This bill seeks to require the publication of certain state assessment tests every three years.  Currently, no one has access to the questions on these exams, including the Department of Education nor any government officials.  Students are being told that they cannot tell anyone the content of test questions, including their parents.

The Senate bill was heard in the Education Committee workshop this week but has not been scheduled for a vote yet.  The House PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee will hear the House version next Monday morning for a vote before it heads to its final committee.

GAMING 

HB 7037 Addressing Gambling Long-Term 
Sponsor: Rep. Mike La Rosa (R) and the Tourism & Gaming Control Subcommittee

This bill will constrict or freeze gambling in Florida by requiring the Governor to renegotiate the state’s compact with the Seminole Tribe, with terms for a 20-year contract.

This bill passed out of its final committee on Thursday afternoon in a 19-11 vote along party lines.  An amendment was filed to change a provision which allowed charter schools to be funded through the revenue-sharing agreement with the Seminole Tribe.  The amendment failed along party lines but was used by some members of the Commerce Committee as an excuse as to why they were not supporting the bill.  Other detractors said the funding issue was not the only problem they had with the bill. Florida Family Action supported the bill in committee and called on the House to not back down from the spirit of the bill when negotiating with the Senate on the state’s gambling issues.  FFA continues to believe the House bill is better policy and better for Florida’s families, businesses, and our tourism brand than the massive expansion of gambling that the Senate bill provides.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING 

HB 1383 / SB 852 Child Victims of Human Trafficking 
Sponsors: Rep. Jeanette Nuñez (R), Sen. Rene Garcia (R)

This bill seeks to help children who have been the victims of sex trafficking by requiring the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to maintain a database of services available for victims of commercial sexual exploitation,  increases the situations in which a defendant’s confession may be used at trial, outlines procedures for assisting victims, and requires officials to follow up with victims within six monthsto evaluate services used and their effectiveness.

While the House bill was not heard this week, one of its originally assigned committees of reference was removed. This is a good sign, as it increases the chances that it will get to the floor for full House consideration. There was no action on this bill in the Senate this week.

HB 1165 / SB 972 Florida Compensation Trust Fund for Survivors of Human Trafficking

Sponsor: Rep. Ross Spano (R), House Civil Justice and Claims Subcommittee

This bill allows victims of human trafficking to sue the individuals who engaged in their trafficking.

Both the House and Senate versions of the bill will be heard next Monday.  It will be the first time it is heard in the Senate.

RELIGIOUS LIBERTY 

HB 303 / SB 436 Religious Liberty in Public Schools or “Florida Student and School Personnel Religious Liberties Act” 
Sponsors: Rep. Kim Daniels (D), Rep. Patricia Williams (D), Sen. Dennis Baxley (R)

This bill codifies the current state of religious liberty in public schools. It prohibits a school district from discriminating against students, parents, or school personnel on the basis of religious viewpoints or expression and clarifies that a school cannot penalize or reward a student’s religious expression in their coursework, artwork, or other specified assignments.  It provides equal access to all religions and non-religions before, during, and after school.

This bill was placed on the calendar for the 2nd reading in the House on Tuesday, with expected passage on Wednesday. There are some differences between the House and Senate versions, so it remains to be seen whether the House will adopt the Senate version as-is or amend it to be identical to the House version and send it back.

ISRAEL

HB 281 / SB 574 Opposing United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2334
Sponsors: Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D), Sen. Kevin Rader (D)

This Resolution pronounces that the Legislature opposes and requests the repeal or fundamental alteration of UN Resolution 2334, which stated that Israel’s settlement activity constitutes a flagrant violation of international law, has no legal validity and is a major obstacle to the vision of two states living side-by-side in peace and security.  It calls on the US to ensure that the UN Resolution is no longer one-sided and anti-Israel and authorizes all final-status issues toward a two-state solution to be resolved through direct, bilateral negotiations between the parties involved.

On Tuesday, the House adopted this resolution, and the Senate passed out of its final committee in a 9-1 vote.  It is scheduled to be heard by the full Senate next Tuesday.

BAD BILLS

LGBT RIGHTS

HB 623 / SB 666 Creating Special Rights for LGBT Citizens or “Florida’s Competitive Workforce Act” 
Sponsors: Rep. Ben Diamond (D), Rep. Rene Plasencia (R), Sen. Jeff Clemens (D)

The CWA adds sexual orientation and gender identity or expression to Florida’s Civil Rights Act of 1992 as impermissible grounds for discrimination. This bill provides a new way for LGBT individuals to sue employers and small businesses for discrimination and would allow men access to use women’s showers, locker rooms, bathrooms, women’s domestic violence shelters, etc.

This bill which we have described as the worst bill proposed in the Florida Legislature due to its effect on public safety and religious liberty has not been scheduled to be heard in committee.  We continue to educate legislators on the dangers of this piece of legislation, and it continues to be dead on arrival despite some liberal Republican support.

GAMBLING

SB 8 Gaming Expansion Bill 
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Galvano (R)

The massive gambling expansion bill was heard in 2nd reading on Wednesday and then passed by the full Senate on Thursday in a 32-6 vote.  On the floor on Wednesday, additional amendments were added to the bill which were specific carve outs for various gambling interests.  The bill sponsor, Sen. Galvano, stated that passing the bill was merely getting the Senate in posture for negotiations with the House. We are sure that gambling interests throughout the state (with the exception of the Seminole Tribe) are over the moon with this bill because it expands gambling in every arena possible. The Senate sponsor may believe that this will improve the Senate’s position at the negotiating table with the House – which seeks to restrict gaming in the state for the next 20 years. Sen. Galvano did concede on the Senate floor that a compromise between the House and the Senate may not be possible this year.

Unfortunately, the bill was met with little discussion or resistance on the floor, and after Thursday’svote, the bill was immediately certified and sent to the House for consideration. We would like to recognize and thank those senators who voted against this harmful measure: Sen. Dennis Baxley (R), Sen. Aaron Bean (R), Sen. Denise Grimsley (R), Sen. Jose Rodriguez (D), Sen. Kelli Stargel (R), Sen. Victor Torres (D), and Sen. Tom Lee (R) (whose vote was recorded after the official vote).

The bill has been placed on the Special Order Calendar for the full House to hear next Tuesday along with HB 7037 which is the House’s gaming proposal.

ALCOHOL

HB 81 / SB 106 Hard Liquor in Grocery Stores 
Sponsors: Rep. Bryan Avila (R), Sen. Anitere Flores (R)

Dubbed “Whiskey and Wheaties,” this bill would allow grocery stores and large retail stores to sell hard liquor in their main store rather than building or renting a separate store to sell liquor.

In a bit of intrigue this week, this bill was pulled from the Special Order Calendar on Wednesday during the floor session of the House.  The differences between the House and Senate versions of the bill seemed to have caused some difficulties on the final passage.  A compromise may have been reached as the bill is back on the House floor schedule for next Tuesday.

The post Legislative Insider’s Report: Week 4 of 9 appeared first on Florida Family Action.

Visit our Facebook page for photos from this year’s event. More photos will continue to be added in the coming days. Tag yourself and share these photos with your friends and encourage them to join us next year for this exciting event! Follow us on Facebook to continue to receive our most current updates on what’s happening around the state relating to life, religious liberty, and family issues.

On Tuesday, FFPC hosted a Legislative Prayer Breakfast attended by over 250 people, including 15 elected officials. Guest speakers included Governor Rick Scott, Commissioner Adam Putnam, House Speaker Richard Corcoran, Representative Kim Daniels, Representative Jamie Grant, Senator Greg Steube, and keynotes Alliance Defending Freedom legal counsel Kellie Fiedorek, and her client Barronelle Stutzman a Washington florist and grandmother targeted by her state for living out her faith.

During the event, FFPC also honored additional Champion of the Family legislators who were unable to join us at our 2016 Annual Dinner.

At the Capitol, the week started off very busy for the Legislature with a number of groups visiting the Capitol with a variety of interests. One group that protested asking for “equal pay” for women is tied to an employment discrimination bill. The problem with this bill is that it includes gender identity as a protected class – meaning a man who identifies as a woman would be covered under the bill – essentially making the bill meaningless as some feminists are now seeing.

The cold weather that came to Tallahassee mid-week seemed to slow down the Legislature. The Senate went so far as to cancel some of its meetings at the end of the week.  Next week we expect to see a number of bills heard in committee.

Now let’s take a look at some of the bills that were heard in the Legislature this week…

GOOD BILLS

LIFE 

HB 969 / SB 1130 Pregnancy Support Services
Sponsors: Rep. Jackie Toledo (R), Sen. Aaron Bean (R)

This bill was heard in both the House and the Senate this week.  Planned Parenthood opposes the bill showing the radical pro-abortion nature of the abortion giant – they oppose a bill which does not harm them in any way and helps pregnant women and their children.

The 10-4 vote in the House was party-line with Democrats opposing the measure.  The 4-2 Senate vote had Sen. Montford (D) voting for the bill, ensuring that it did not die in committee.

GAMING 

HB 7037 Addressing Gambling Long-Term 
Sponsor: Rep. Mike La Rosa (R) and the Tourism & Gaming Control Subcommittee

The House did not take up the bill this week, but it is scheduled for next week in the Ways & Means Committee, the final stop before a vote by the full House.

RELIGIOUS LIBERTY 

HB 303 / SB 436 Religious Liberty in Public Schools or “Florida Student and School Personnel Religious Liberties Act” Sponsors: Rep. Kim Daniels (D), Rep. Patricia Williams (D), Sen. Dennis Baxley (R)

This bill was heard in its first committee in the House, passing unanimously in a 14-0 vote.  The Senate passed their version out of its final committee in a 5-4 vote along party lines. Florida Family Action calls on the Florida Legislature to affirm the religious liberty of all citizens, especially in counties with non-discrimination laws which include sexual orientation and gender identity.  Religious liberty should not be limited to specific individuals in specific situations but is a robust right of expression.

ISRAEL 

HB 281 / SB 574 Opposing United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2334
Sponsors: Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D), Sen. Kevin Rader (D)

The Senate heard this bill in the Judiciary committee (the first of two committee stops) on Tuesday and moved it forward in a 6-2 vote.

BAD BILLS

LGBT RIGHTS

HB 623 / SB 666 Creating Special Rights for LGBT Citizens or “Florida’s Competitive Workforce Act” 
Sponsors: Rep. Ben Diamond (D), Rep. Rene Plasencia (R), Sen. Jeff Clemens (D)

This remains the single worst and anti-liberty bill in the Florida Legislature because of its effect on public safety and freedom of conscience. It adds sexual orientation and gender identity or expression to Florida’s Civil Rights Act of 1992 as impermissible grounds for discrimination. This bill provides a new way for LGBT individuals to sue employers and small businesses for discrimination.  It would allow men access to use women’s showers, locker rooms, and bathrooms.

There was no movement on either the House or Senate versions of the bill this week. Florida Family Action urges legislators to vote no on this bill and related bills which will not help strengthen Florida’s economy, regardless of what opponents claim.

GAMBLING

SB 8 Gaming Expansion Bill 
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Galvano (R)

This bill passed out of its final committee before the official start of the legislative session.  While it was ready for a full vote by the Senate, it was not scheduled for one this week.

ALCOHOL

HB 81 / SB 106 Hard Liquor in Grocery Stores 
Sponsors: Rep. Bryan Avila (R), Sen. Anitere Flores (R)

The “Whiskey and Wheaties” bill just barely passed out of the House Government Operations & Technology Appropriations Subcommittee. With some members not present during the committee meeting, the bill was passed in a 7-6 vote. It is expected to be heard in its final House committee next week while the Senate is soon expected to take up its version for a vote by the full Senate.

The post Legislative Insider’s Report Week 2 of 9 appeared first on Florida Family Action.

Dear Friend,

The Legislature opened the 2017 session this week with a bang! On Tuesday, we saw addresses from the Governor, the Speaker of the House, and the Senate President.  A battle has been brewing between Governor Rick Scott and House Speaker Richard Corcoran over legislation regarding Enterprise Florida and Visit Florida.  Speaker Corcoran has taken aim at ending the two programs, which are pet projects of Governor Scott’s, as wasteful of taxpayer dollars.  Much of the Governor’s State of the State could be summed up with an “I’m talking to you, Speaker Corcoran.” For his part, Speaker Corcoran remained dedicated to ending the programs he calls corporate welfare.  The Governor believes the program creates jobs and helps the economy.  The House voted 87-28 to end Enterprise Florida on Friday afternoon. 

In a busy first week, the Legislature passed its first bill which will be sent to the Governor to sign. The subject? The death penalty.  The Supreme Court ruled that last year’s law was unconstitutional and required a unanimous jury verdict to impose the death penalty. The Legislature passed that measure this week, and it is expected to be sent to the Governor soon. 

In the upcoming week, our entire FFPC staff team will be at the Capitol along with about 225 pastors, pro-life leaders and other citizen activists for the 2017 Pro-Family Lobby Days at the Capitol event. We packed the event out and have reached capacity at the Civic Center venue where the event is being held.  Otherwise, I would ask you to consider buying a last-minute ticket.  We will report on that at the end of the week (in our next Legislative Insider‘s Report).  

Amber Kelly, our Director of Policy and Communications, who has extensive experience in lobbying and politics is doing a great job representing us full time in Tallahassee.  You will hear more from her in the upcoming weeks with updates and live-streaming video.  Follow us on social media for instant and immediate information while the news is breaking in Tallahassee.  I would recommend following us on Twitter first and Facebook second.  

For a look at some of the bills that Florida Family Policy Council is tracking in 2017, look at our bill summaries below my signature.  The most up-to-date list of good bills and bad bills can always be found on our website. We will list our top priority bills next week.  

Thanks for your support,

John Stemberger

GOOD BILLS

ADOPTION / FOSTER CARE

HB 363 / SB 200 Temporary Respite Care for Families in Crisis

Sponsors: Rep. Frank White (R), Rep. Patricia Williams (D), Sen. Kathleen Passidomo (R)

This bill would help families who are dealing with crises, such as drug abuse, illness, unemployment, or homelessness which have not yet led to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to remove children from the home. Several private, non-profit organizations in Florida work with respite care families to provide a temporary, safe environment for children while their parents work to reestablish a safe and stable living environment.  This is a voluntary program on the part of the parents and seeks to intervene in situations before children are placed in child welfare due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. 

ABORTION  

HB 19 / SB 1140 Injuries Resulting from an Abortion

Sponsors: Rep. Erin Grall (R), Sen. Kelli Stargel (R)

This bill gives women who have an abortion a new way to sue the doctor performing the abortion if they sustain physical or emotional injuries.  Specifically, if a woman was not properly informed of the possible risk of abortion and she suffers emotional problems as a result, she may sue the abortionist.  If the doctor was negligent in performing the abortion and the woman suffers physical injuries as a result, she may sue the abortionist. 

LIFE

HB 969 / SB 1130 Pregnancy Support Services

Sponsors: Rep. Jackie Toledo (R), Sen. Aaron Bean (R)

This bill requires the Florida Department of Health to contract with the Florida Pregnancy Care Network (FPCN) to provide pregnancy support services for women who suspect or know they are pregnant. FPCN would then provide support to pregnant women and address their wellness needs. The bill would require subcontractors with FPCN to promote and support only childbirth. Services provided must be noncoercive and could not include religious content.

HB 841 / SB 1006 Humanity of the Unborn Child

Sponsors: Julio Gonzalez (R), Sen. Dennis Baxley (R)

This bill requires the Department of Health (DOH) publish the following on their website: pregnancy support and adoption services in the state (both public and private), their contact info, and a description of services at these agencies. A statement alerting pregnant mothers that there are agencies to assist them must be posted on the DOH website as well as at medical offices, hospitals, etc. that provide OB/GYN services. This bill also assists local crisis pregnancy groups with community outreach and awareness campaigns for options to abortion for expectant mothers. 

HB 203 / SB 348 Pain Capable Abortion Ban

Sponsors: Rep. Joe Gruters (R), Sen. Greg Steube (R)

This bill would ban abortion after 20 weeks, except in rare cases. It would require abortion clinics to reportthe abortions they perform annually, along with descriptive information such as the estimated age of the child, and what abortion method was used, etc. The bill would also allow civil and criminal damages to be brought against any physician who intentionally violates this ban.

GAMING

HB 7037 Addressing Gambling Long-Term

Sponsor: Rep. Mike La Rosa (R) and the Tourism & Gaming Control Subcommittee

This bill will constrict or freeze gambling in Florida by requiring the Governor to renegotiate the state’s compact with the Seminole Tribe, with terms for a 20-year contract. It allows the Seminole Tribe to provide banked card games and slots outside of Miami-Dade and Broward counties exclusively, effectively freezing state authorized gambling outside of these areas for the next 20 years. It requires horse and dog tracks to have live races, limits the types of card games allowed, and bans highly addictive slot machines from these facilities. It prohibits new permits for horse and dog tracks and does not allow them to be converted.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING 

HB 1383 / SB 852 Child Victims of Human Trafficking

Sponsors: Rep. Jeanette Nuñez (R), Sen. Rene Garcia (R)

This bill seeks to help children who have been the victims of sex trafficking by requiring the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to maintain a database of services available for victims of commercial sexual exploitation,  increases the situations in which a defendant’s confession may be used at trial, outlines procedures for assessment and staffing in evaluating and assisting victims, and requires either DCF or the local sheriff’s office to follow up with victims within six months to evaluate services used and their effectiveness. 

HB 665 / SB 286 Human Trafficking Education in Schools

Sponsors: Rep. Ross Spano (R), Sen. Greg Steube (R)

Requires health education in public schools to include information regarding the dangers and signs of human trafficking.

RELIGIOUS LIBERTY

HB 303 / SB 436 Religious Liberty in Public Schools or “Florida Student and School Personnel Religious Liberties Act”

Sponsors: Rep. Kim Daniels (D), Rep. Patricia Williams (D), Sen. Dennis Baxley (R)

This bill would prohibit a school district from discriminating against students, parents, or school personnel on the basis of religious viewpoints or expression.  This bill states that a school cannot penalize or reward a student’s religious expression in their coursework, artwork, or other specified assignments.  It provides equal access to all religions and non-religions before, during, and after school.   

ISRAEL

HB 281 / SB 574 Opposing United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2334

Sponsors: Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D), Sen. Kevin Rader (D)

The UNSC adopted Resolution 2334 in December 2016, which stated that Israel’s settlement activity constitutes a flagrant violation of international law, has no legal validity, and is a major obstacle to the vision of two states living side-by-side in peace and security. The US abstained from voting when it had the power to veto Resolution 2334.  This Resolution pronounces that the Legislature opposes and requests the repeal or fundamental alteration of Resolution 2334 so that it: is no longer one-sided and anti-Israel and authorizes all final-status issues toward a two-state solution to be resolved through direct, bilateral negotiations between the parties involved.

BAD BILLS

LGBT RIGHTS  

HB 623 / SB 666 Creating Special Rights for LGBT Citizens or “Florida’s Competitive Workforce Act”

Sponsors: Rep. Ben Diamond (D), Rep. Rene Plasencia (R), Sen. Jeff Clemens (D)

The worst bill in the Florida Legislature because of its effect on public safety and freedom of conscience. It adds sexual orientation and gender identity or expression to Florida’s Civil Rights Act of 1992 as impermissible grounds for discrimination. This bill provides a new way for LGBT individuals to sue employers and small businesses for discrimination.  Would allow men access to use women’s showers, locker rooms, and bathrooms.  

A full list of House and Senate co-sponsors.

HB 659 / SB 742 Creating Special Rights for LGBT Citizens in Housing

Sponsors: Rep. Holly Merrill Raschein (R), Sen. Jack Latvala (R)

Adds sexual orientation and gender identity to Florida’s Fair Housing Act as impermissible grounds for discrimination.  Provides a new way for those in the LGBT community to sue property owners, rental agencies, real estate firms, etc. for discrimination. Would allow men access into women’s domestic violence and homeless shelters. 

HB 273 / SB 578 Banning Conversion Therapy

Sponsors: Rep. David Richardson (D), Sen. Jeff Clemens (D)

This bill makes it unlawful for people in Florida who are licensed to provide professional counseling and others, like pastors who are licensed counselors, to counsel youth under the age of 18 struggling with their “sexual orientation and/or gender identity” to think and live in a heterosexual manner consistent with their biological gender, even if the child (as the patient) asks for their help to do so.

GAMBLING

SB 8 Gaming Expansion Bill

Sponsor: Sen. Bill Galvano (R)

This bill is a massive and unprecedented expansion of gambling in the State of Florida. It ratifies and amends the 2015 Seminole Gaming Compact to allow lottery tickets at gas pumps, slot machines, blackjack, poker games, and fantasy sports to be offered across Florida.  SB 8 would allow 24/7 slot machines in the state wherever approved in a countywide referendum and would permit free or reduced-price alcoholic beverages to be served to those using the slots.  Furthermore, it would allow horse and dog tracks to quit live races and replace the live races with other types of gambling while giving $20 million of taxpayer dollars annually to live thoroughbred racing.  Lastly, it creates an “Office of Amusements” to allow and oversee fantasy sports gaming.

ABORTION

HB 6025 / SB 1114 Abortion Funding and Abortion Clinic Records

Sponsors: Rep. Lori Berman (D), Sen. Jeff Clemens (D)

Removes a prohibition against taxpayer dollars going to organizations/clinics that perform abortions. Removes the requirement that the Agency for Healthcare Administration (AHCA) review at least 50% of patient records.

MARRIAGE

HB 6041 / SB 1174 Marriage Equality

Sponsors: Rep. David Richardson (D), Sen. Gary Farmer

Removes the language in the statute which prohibited same-sex couples from marrying and the State of Florida from recognizing same-sex marriages from other states. 

ALCOHOL

HB 81 / SB 106 Hard Liquor in Grocery Stores

Sponsors: Rep. Bryan Avila (R), Sen. Anitere Flores (R)

Often called “Whiskey and Wheaties,” this bill would allow grocery stores and large retail stores to sell hard liquor in their main store rather than building or renting a separate store to sell liquor. It would also allow stores to have an entrance that physically connects a liquor store with a retail store.  Lastly, it would also allow smaller, hard liquor bottles to be sold in larger bins next to other products giving greater access to both kids and shoplifters. 

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