Photo Credit: The Palm Beach Post

This week students from Parkland and across the state descended on Tallahassee to call for legislative action after the school shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School last week. On Tuesday and Wednesday, students were split into groups and were escorted by Equality Florida, Florida’s leading LGBT activist organization, and other organizers to meet with legislators to share their experiences and demand action.

On Tuesday, as the House opened their floor session, Democrats motioned to remove all committee assignments from HB 219 and debate it directly on the floor. The bill, which has been called an assault weapons ban, in actual fact, bans nearly all guns and makes it a felony to possess or sell a wide variety of guns. The bill was never analyzed by staff nor heard in any of its committees. It should be noted that staff analysis and committee hearings are a vital part of vetting any proposed legislation. The motion to remove the committee references and debate it on the floor failed in a 71-36 party-line vote which set off a media firestorm and framed the conversation for the remainder of the week. CNN listed the name of every member who voted not to bring the measure to the floor with their NRA record. Other media outlets listed the names and phone numbers of all of the no votes. Legislative offices were inundated with calls not just from Floridians, but those across the country.  

On Wednesday, a Parkland student ambushed the Criminal Justice Subcommittee chair in the House Judiciary Committee to ask what possible reason or rationale he could have for not hearing HB 219. A rally was held outside the Capitol with 2,000 to 3,500 people calling for stricter gun control measures with students, parents, teachers, and legislators speaking out. The rally was sponsored by the League of Women Voters, Equality Florida, The Florida Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence, Florida PTA and others. The atmosphere was supercharged and hostile. As House members convened on the floor Wednesday afternoon, a group gathered outside the chamber chanting about HB 219 and could be heard throughout the entire floor session.

House and Senate leaders plan to release their legislative response to the Parkland shooting as early as today, but it’s unlikely that gun control advocates will be happy with it. Throughout the week, it was clear that the shooting had become politicized and a specific agenda was being pushed by the Left. 

FFPC President John Stemberger tweeted out regarding this whole movement:

It is totally shameful the leftist activists in Florida that are exploiting the teen survivors of the #StonemanShooting by parading them around exploiting them for political purposes instead of getting them grief counseling & letting them heal. #StudentsStandUp #CNNTownHall

— John Stemberger (@JohnStemberger) February 22, 2018 

Dealing with the aftermath of the shooting may have also sucked all the air out of budget negotiations and we’re hearing its a possibility that Session may be extended so that budget negotiations can be completed.  

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

A Women’s Pregnancy Center of Marianna’s Celebration of Life Banquet

Join us for A Women’s Pregnancy Center of Marianna’s Annual Celebration of Life Banquet this next Tuesday, February 27. FFPC President John Stemberger will be the featured keynote at this event. Celebrate with us the precious lives saved every day because of AWPC Marianna’s commitment to support and care for women and their families in their community facing a suspected or unplanned pregnancy.

Details:
Tuesday, February 27, 2018 | 6 – 10 PM CST
Eastside Baptist Church, 4785 Highway 90, Marianna, 32446
For more information or to purchase tickets, please call 850-526-4673 or email awpcmarianna@gmail.com.

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 please contact Kevrick McKain at 919-935-9220.

Upcoming Constitution Revision Commission Hearings (Pensacola, 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 Pensacola on 2/27, Cape Coral on 3/5 and St. Petersburg on 3/13. For more information on what is happening and what is needed click here. 

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: None this week. 

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: The House picked up their resolution for consideration on the floor on Tuesday. During questions, Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith (D-Winter Park) attempted to imply that this resolution by Rep. Ross Spano (R-Riverview) was unimportant and outrageous because it prioritized pornography over gun violence. Rep. Smith was antagonistic and grandstanding on the issue of gun control during each of his questions. We have it on good authority that he alienated some of his colleagues in the exchange and some are wanting to distance themselves from him. The resolution was adopted in a voice vote, with only a few no votes from the back of the chamber. 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: Rep. Kim Daniels (D-Jacksonville) presented her bill on the floor of the House on Wednesday. Her passionate remarks on the floor spoke about the attempts to remove God from the public sphere, including the question as to why kids have to wait until they go to prison to see “In God We Trust.” She also asked why we had prison chaplains but none in schools. You can hear her full remarks on the House floor (3:50-11:15) here. The bill passed the House 97-10. Unfortunately, the Senate version hasn’t moved at all this session so the bill is dead for the year.  

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 House version passed quickly without any debate on Wednesday afternoon in a 113-0 vote. The Senate version has one remaining committee, Appropriations, but it was not scheduled to be heard in next Tuesday’s meeting – the last day for regularly scheduled committee meetings. This means the bill is likely dead for the third year in a row.  

 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: HB 7055, a larger education bill, which has the Hope Scholarship Program language was heard by the Senate Education Committee on Tuesday. Because it is a House bill any proposed amendments will be considered at each committee stop in the Senate. A number of amendments were considered on Tuesday. One that could have huge consequences for private schools was adopted by the committee and we are more fully analyzing its impact before Tuesday’s Appropriations Committee meeting, its next scheduled stop. It is fully expected that the Senate will adopt various amendments and then the bill will head to a conference committee between the two chambers where the final language and details will be determined. 

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: Senate Judiciary, the final committee in the Senate, heard their version of the bill on Tuesday. The committee room was packed with students from leftist groups whose testimony clearly demonstrated why this bill is necessary on college campuses today. Unfortunately, speaker cards were ordered with all of the opposition on top and supporters on the bottom and time ran out for public testimony – meaning committee members only heard from opponents to the bill. FFA’s Amber Kelly was at the meeting to testify on the bill, but was not given an opportunity to do so. Sen. Anitere Flores (R-Miami) and Sen. Rene Garcia (R-Hialeah) joined with committee Democrats in voting “no” on the bill killing the bill. Before the vote count was even announced, a motion to reconsider was made which would allow the bill to be reconsidered (voted on again) during the next committee meeting – but there are no more Judiciary committee meetings scheduled for the year.  

The House Education committee picked up the measure on Wednesday morning. FFA’s Amber Kelly testified on the bill, followed by a couple of the students from the previous day (you can hear Amber’s full testimony from 13:48 to 16:28). Some of the student testimony focused on speech that incites violence – it is important to note that free speech protections never extend to speech that incites violence. Opponents said that extremists include racists, evangelicals and those who are pro-life and that the majority have the right to silence speech they don’t like. 

Questions by committee members were much more pointed than in the Senate. During debate committee members passionately argued the bill with some members hung up on the issue of racist speech. Rep. Shevrin Jones (D-West Park), as a millennial, said he believed in disruption, meaning that it is appropriate to disrupt activities or speech that one disagrees with. The idea of disruption is diametrically opposed to the concept of free speech. While it is certainly acceptable to protest and counter-protest, it is not okay to impinge or stop others from exercising their right to free speech. The final vote was 14-6 in a mostly party-line vote with Rep. Kim Daniels (D-Jacksonville) joining committee Republicans.  

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: None this week. 

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: The House version was heard by its final committee, Judiciary, on Wednesday. The bill passed with unanimous support. The bill now heads to the House floor. The Senate version is set to be heard by its final committee, Rules, on Monday next 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 House and Senate bills passed their final committees Wednesday and Thursday this week and will now head to the floor to be considered by their full chambers. Both bills passed unanimously out of committee.

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: None this week. 

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 7 of 9 appeared first on Florida Family Action.

The Hope Scholarship bill (HB 1/SB 1172) was heard in both House and Senate committees this week, while the House took up a larger education bill (HB 7055) which also includes the provision.  The House budget has a provision which would make the bulk of next year’s per-student school funding contingent on the passage of the education bill. After hours of floor debate on Thursday, the House passed HB 7055 in a 66-43 vote which was mostly party line (five moderate Republicans voted against the bill).  It remains to be seen what the Senate will do in response.  

With the close of the fifth week of Session, it is becoming clear where we stand for this year on a range of issues.  Any bill that has not yet been heard in either the House or the Senate is likely dead.  House subcommittees are no longer meeting and most committees will conclude their business in the next week (or possibly two).  In our report this week, we have made it clear which bills have not seen any action this Legislative Session so you can tell where any specific bill in the process is for the year.  

Rick Green of Patriot Academy was at the Capitol this week as part of the Florida Parent Educator’s Association’s Day at the Capitol.  Rick Green had homeschooled students participate in activities which mirrored some of what Patriot Academy does during its summer programs.  Florida Family Policy Council partners with Patriot Academy to hold this event in Tallahassee. This year’s event will be held from June 11 to 13th.  We have a limited number of scholarships available for participants who have a parent who is in the military or is a first responder or military veteran.  

Now for the latest on our 2017 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: None this Session.  The House sponsor reached out to us this week with a proposal to amend the bill in a way which could potentially satisfy our concerns with the bill.  Rep. Stark has not yet introduced an amendment to the bill for our evaluation. 

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: The House Judiciary Committee picked up the bill on Wednesday. Opponents argued that women should have access to an abortion no matter what, but they did not engage on the topic of the cruel and barbaric practice of killing an unborn child by dismembering it.  Supporters expressed their outrage that unborn children are being killed by having their limbs ripped from them and bleeding out and argued that we must remember our humanity in this session.  Rep. Gonzalez (R-Venice), who is both a doctor and a lawyer, was able to passionately articulate both the medical and legal arguments.  He concluded his debate by saying, “we have a compelling state interest to prevent inhumane actions which by all descriptions [of the procedure] is deeply and utterly inhumane.”  Shockingly, some members argued that the choice of how the baby is killed is the woman’s choice and one admitted that abortion was killing a child, but still opposed the bill.  The committee passed the bill in a 12-7 vote.  The House version has one more committee assignment before it can head to the floor for a vote by the full House.  The Senate has yet to hear the bill at all meaning the bill will likely die even if the full House passes it. 

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: 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 protestors 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: None this Session. 

CULTURE

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

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

Action: None this week.  The House has one remaining committee stop (which may hear it next week) while the resolution has not been heard at all in the Senate.  This bill is a resolution (rather than a new law) meaning that each chamber can independently pass the resolution without the approval of the other. 

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:  The House bill was heard by its final assigned committee, Education, on Wednesday where it passed in a 17-1 vote. The bill is now headed for the floor.  The Senate has yet to hear the bill in committee which means the bill is likely dead for the year. 

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: The House bill was heard Wednesday by the Education Committee (its final committee) and passed with no opposition in an 18-0 vote.  The House bill was amended in committee to remove an existing 8-hour cap on the number of courses a homeschooled, dual-enrolled student can take to receive college credit.  The Senate version was heard on Thursday by the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Pre-K-12 Education passing unanimously 8-0.  It has one final committee stop, Appropriations, before heading to the Senate floor.

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: The House version was heard on Wednesday in the Education Committee, its final committee stop.  The Senate bill was heard by the Appropriations Subcommittee on Pre-K – 12 Education on Thursday.  A number of noncontroversial amendments were added to the Senate version.  During public testimony, opponents tried to argue that bullies exist everywhere and that victims shouldn’t just be allowed to go to another school.  Supporters are clear that it is the parents’ choice as to what environment would be best for their child – whether to stay in their current school, transfer to another public school, or obtain a scholarship for a private school.  It is also clear that schools who don’t handle problems with bullies in their school should face consequences.  Unfortunately, the issue has become very partisan and members who oppose the scholarship program are not typically supportive of school choice.  The House version passed its final committee 14-4 and the Senate version passed its second (of three) committee in a 6-2 vote.  

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: The Senate version was picked up by the Senate Education Committee Tuesday.  The bill was amended in committee by the sponsor to clarify the liability language for public institutions and add increased accountability for student governments in charge of funding student campus organizations. 

The bill was highly contested in committee and some senators questioned the need for the legislation.  The bill sponsor reminded the committee that restricting free speech to free speech zones or only allowing certain groups on public campuses sets a dangerous precedent.  Specifically, these actions silence or alienate those with differing views which ultimately leads to intolerance of any opinion or thought contrary to the official or mainstream perspective or worldview.  It also, of course, violates the First Amendment. 

One senator brought up KKK as a reason to have waiting periods or restrictions on speech on college campuses.  However, as one member of the public pointed out, as much as this form of speech is detestable to most of society, placing restrictions on any group and not on other groups is an unequal application of rules and is effectively content-based discrimination.  We would also point out that the best way to tackle these detestable attitudes and speech is by having civil discourse and thoughtful examination as to why it is inappropriate.  After further discussion, the bill was passed along party lines in a 7-4 vote.  The bill has one more assigned committee (Judiciary) before it heads to the Senate floor.

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: 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: None this week.  The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Finance and Tax is scheduled to hear the bill on Monday 2/12.

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: 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: The House bill was scheduled to be heard in the House Judiciary Committee on Thursday 2/1 but was postponed. The committee met again this week but did not hear the bill. The Senate bill was not heard this week but will be heard in its first committee, Children, Family and Elder Affairs on Monday 2/12. 

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: The House bill was scheduled to be heard in the House Judiciary Committee on Thursday 2/1 but was postponed. The committee met again this week but did not hear the bill.  The Senate bill was not heard this week but will be heard in its first committee, Children, Family and Elder Affairs on Monday 2/12. 

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: The House bill was considered by the House Justice Appropriations Committee on Tuesday and passed 10-0.  The bill must pass one final committee, Judiciary, to head to the floor.  There was no movement on the Senate bill this week.

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: The full Senate considered the bill this week.  After a number of failed attempts by Democrats to amend the bill on Wednesday, the Senate took up the House version.  On Thursday, after one more attempt by Sen. Audrey Gibson to amend the bill, the Senate passed the bill 21-12 along party lines.  Once the presiding officers sign the bill, it will 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:  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: None this Session.  The bill sponsors with other legislators and in coordination with Equality Florida held a press conference this week in an attempt to draw attention to their proposed legislation.  The rhetoric on this bad bill was ratcheted up this week with one legislator calling so-called conversion therapy bullying and implying that the high suicide rates of youth identifying as LGBT were a result of Christians calling homosexuality a sin.  

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: 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: 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: None this Session.

The post Legislative Insider’s Report from Tallahassee – Week 5 of 9 appeared first on Florida Family Action.

Another bill that we have been watching, but have not formally listed on our legislative agenda relates to churches with schools on their property. The bill would allow these churches to determine whether concealed weapons permit holders are allowed to carry a gun on their property. Currently, Florida law prohibits nearly all individuals, including concealed weapon permit holders, from carrying guns onto public and private school property. Some Florida sheriffs have asked the Legislature to clarify that churches may choose to allow permit holders to carry while on their property as it is church property, not school property. Given recent events and the increased need for security, we believe this to be good public policy and have chosen to support it in both the House and Senate. The bill moved forward in both the House and Senate this week and is ready to be heard on the floor of both chambers.

Another bill of interest is a bill which would ban marriage for all individuals under the age of 18 with no exceptions. The need for such a bill has arisen out of the revelation of child marriages here in the state of Florida with girls as young as 11 (these cases are not recent, but the victims are finally able to speak out now). While Florida Family Action (FFA) was generally supportive of the bill, we expressed concern during committee weeks that the bill did not allow any exceptions for 16 and 17-year olds, who may need an exception if, for example, they are pregnant and wanted to get married because they are in love with each other and want to do the right thing.

FFA opposes any public policy which encourages or creates incentives for cohabitation, rather than the lifelong commitment of marriage. Studies show that the longer a couple cohabitates before marriage, the more likely the marriage is to end in divorce  The Senate passed the bill 37-0 on Wednesday, with absolutely no exceptions. On Thursday, the House picked up the companion bill and introduced an amendment which provides an exception for 16 and 17-year olds who are pregnant, no more than two years apart in age, and have parental consent.  FFA supported this amendment and the amended bill in committee.

It remains to be seen as to whether the Senate will accept this change, but it is our sincere hope that they do. We believe that this is a reasonable compromise that addresses our concerns, protects girls from the very real threat of predators and human traffickers, helps to limit marriages for immigration purposes, and makes Florida the leading state in the nation on this issue.

Constitution Revision Commission Update

The Constitution Revision Commission’s Judicial Committee took up Proposal 22, the Florida Privacy Restoration Act, at its Thursday meeting.  The proposed amendment would clarify that the privacy clause in Florida’s Constitution guarantees a right to informational privacy. Opinions by the Florida Supreme Court in recent years have not upheld a right to informational privacy, but have granted other rights, such as a right to abortion. While abortion would remain constitutional under Roe v Wade if the Florida Privacy Restoration Act passed, it is possible that reasonable laws regulating abortion, such as parental consent for a minor to obtain an abortion, would now be ruled constitutional. This has angered groups like Planned Parenthood, the ACLU, and the Florida chapter of the National Organization for Women.

Proposal 22 was workshopped before it was picked up by the committee. During the workshop, an expert on judicial activism from Ave Maria School of Law and Paul Linton, the leading expert in the nation on the right to privacy testified on behalf of Proposal 22 while Jon Mills, former Speaker of the Florida House, testified in opposition to the measure. When Commissioner Stemberger presented the bill it seemed clear that the 1977-78 CRC, the 1980 Legislature, the media, and the voters who voted to amend the Florida Constitution with our current privacy clause all understood that the right to privacy was to protect our personal and private information, not a right to abortion. Some committee members chose to ignore the intent by either stating that the constitutional language is clear (it isn’t) or that that the constitution is meant to evolve and so while that may not have been the intent, we are better off with the interpretation of the Florida Supreme Court. In the end, the committee voted against the measure in a 2-4 vote.

Now, for this week’s update on our 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: None this week.

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: None this week.

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: None this week.

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 protestors 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: None this week.

CULTURE

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

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

Action: None this week.

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: None this week.

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: The House bill was heard Tuesday by the PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee and passed with no opposition in a 12-0 vote. There was no action on the Senate version this week.

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: The House version was heard by the PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee on Tuesday. Several amendments to the bill were adopted, including an increase to the tax credit available to motorists voluntarily contributing funds to this program when they purchase a vehicle in Florida and an appropriation of $2 million annually to the Florida Department of Education to administer the program. Some representatives questioned whether or not there were already school district policies in place and programs to deal with bullying. They advocated for increased funding for these anti-bullying programs in public schools, rather than creating a new scholarship for victims to attend private or charter schools.

Rep. Raburn (R-Valrico) spoke up passionately in support of the bill “I totally recognize that there are school districts that are doing the right thing, there are schools and communities that are addressing problems in classrooms when kids are being bullied, but unfortunately, that’s not happening everywhere. We’ve passed anti-bullying bills in the past, and what we’ve seen is we still have a problem.”

Opponents to the bill claimed that taxpayer dollars under this program would be funneled away from public schools into a “troubled” system (private/charter schools) with little accountability, that the bill was in favor of special interests, or that it forces the victims to leave their school while not dealing with the student who is the bully. It should be noted that nothing in this bill prohibits the school and/or school district from taking appropriate action in regards to the student who is bullying other students. In fact, it is because schools are not always appropriately handling these situations that the bill is necessary.

The sponsor, Rep. Donalds (R-Naples), closed on the bill by reminding those gathered that this bill is giving parents the information and opportunity to make the best decision for their child, not funneling money to certain groups or forcing victims from their schools. The bill passed 9-4 in a party-line vote. The Senate version of the bill was not heard this week.

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: The House Civil Justice and Claims Subcommittee heard the bill on Tuesday. Amber Kelly testified in support of the bill on behalf of Florida Family Action (her testimony begins at 1:22:25). While the committee chair was working to move quickly because of a packed agenda, a number of groups showed up to testify in support of the bill. Sadly, one group who opposed the bill was the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which supposedly fights for free speech. Rep. Jamie Grant (R-Tampa) questioned the ACLU attorney about how and when they choose when to protect free speech since they were opposing the bill. The ACLU claimed that the bill would chill free speech because universities could be held liable if they do not prohibit a material disruption of a students’ free speech and so they would crack down on others. However, across the country, we’ve seen that university administrations have directly interfered with or prohibited free speech on campus which makes this bill necessary. While some committee members expressed some discomfort with the idea of a cause of action, the bill passed its second committee in a 11-4 vote.

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: 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: None this week.

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: None this week.

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: The bill was scheduled to be heard in the House Judiciary Committee on Thursday, but was postponed. There was no action on the Senate bill.

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: The bill was scheduled to be heard in the House Judiciary Committee on Thursday, but was postponed. There was no action on the Senate bill.

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: The bill was discussed during the Office of Economic & Demographic Research (EDR) Criminal Justice Impact Conference on Monday. Research shared during the conference indicated that the current average sentence length for these type of offenses is about 9.2 years. The bill has yet to be heard in committee.

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: The bill was scheduled to be heard by the full Senate on Thursday, but the bill sponsor requested a temporary postponement as he is working on the language of the bill. It is expected that they will pick it back up when they meet again next Wednesday.

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:  None this week.

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: None this week.

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: Both the House and Senate bills were heard in committee on Tuesday. FFPC President John Stemberger spoke to the House Children Families and Seniors Subcommittee and the Senate Judiciary Committee highlighting the importance of creating a skill-based, non-sectarian guide to help all Florida couples with tools and resources to strengthen their marriage and relationships.

He argued that the state has a compelling interest in strengthening marriage and family structures. You can hear FFPC President John Stemberger’s full testimony to the House Children, Families and Seniors Subcommittee starting at 42:16.

Some legislators opposed the bill, voicing their concerns over whether this new handbook could truly be non-sectarian and beneficial to all Florida couples.  One such representative was Democratic Ranking Member Rep. McGhee (D-Miami) who voiced his concern that pro-life, pro-religious groups might inject their ideologies into this handbook and that a sitting Republican Governor, House Speaker, and Senate President would not select a fair and balanced committee.

Rep. Julio Gonzalez (R-Venice) objected to Rep. McGhee’s questioning and assessment of the issue, calling it the “saddest display he’s ever seen.” The guide is intended to be a non-partisan guide to help couples navigate their marriage, regardless of their religious affiliation, party affiliation, race, etc.

The House bill passed its second (of three committees) in a  9-2 vote and the Senate bill passed its first committee in a  9-1 vote.

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: None this week.

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: None this week.

The post Legislative Insider’s Report from Tallahassee – Week 4 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.