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What an exciting Legislative Session! On Saturday, May 4, I joined my colleagues in the Florida Senate and House of Representatives to celebrate the challenges and triumphs we encountered together during the 60-day Session in Tallahassee.
I am extremely proud of all that we accomplished, and it would not have been possible without your feedback, support and patience. Let's take a moment to revisit what we've been up to during the 2019 Legislative Session.
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The Florida Senate voted 40-0 to approve Senate Bill 2500, the Florida Senate’s proposed budget for the 2019-20 fiscal year. The balanced budget prioritizes education, hurricane recovery, and Florida’s environment while replenishing state reserves to more than $3.4 billion which can be used in future times of need in our state.
Senate Bill 2500 increases funding for the Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP) by $1.1 billion over the current year budget, which is a 4.71% increase in total funds per student. The budget also increases the total state investment in Hurricane Michael Recovery to more than $1.8 billion and invests $656 million toward protecting the environment and improving water quality.
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District Funding
Thanks to the hardworking folks in District 8, we were able to secure funding for projects in Alachua, Marion and Putnam counties. Below are some notable programs to receive funding:
Alachua County: Secured funding to expand access to medical, dental and social needs for low-income families; enhance infrastructure in Newberry; Support successful futures for Gainesville's high-risk youth; conduct groundbreaking research at the UF Center of Rare Diseases; and provide high-quality K-12 education.
Marion County: Secured significant funding to protect and preserve our world renowned Silver Springs. Additionally, we secured support for Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club to bolster the Horse Capital of the World's equine industry.
Putnam County: Secured funding to increase road safety for pedestrians and cyclists; improve floodwater drainage; support the family-friendly opportunities at the Putnam County Fairgrounds; and provide comprehensive training for Putnam County firefighters and law enforcement.
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Legislative Highlights
My staff and I worked to pass several bills this Session for District 8 and our fellow Floridians.
Early Childhood Music Education Incentive Pilot Program: This program has been one of my top priorities over the last few years, and this bill extends the program expiration date. Our program puts music back into K-2 classrooms and authorizes the University of Florida to study the academic and social impacts of early music education.
Nonopioid Alternatives: The opioid epidemic is rampant in Florida, and this bill is one more tool in our toolbox to combat it. Our bill requires the Florida Department of Health to educate patients about alternatives to opioid medication for pain and to document any alternatives the patient chooses in their medical records.
Office of Early Learning: The School Readiness Program offers financial assistance to low-income families to prepare children at greatest risk of school failure for kindergarten and early grade success. This bill creates standards and stackable credentials for the professional development training of early learning instructors.
Off-Highway Vehicles: Floridians and their families can now enjoy our state's unique outdoor spaces in safer ATVs and Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles. Our bill increases required width and weight for these vehicles to better meet the demands of all Florida sportsmen.
Correctional Facilities: We took significant steps to address security and staffing concerns at these critical infrastructure facilities. To combat the presence of dangerous and illegal contraband, our bill bans the use of drones near state, county and private correctional facilities; juvenile detention centers, and high-risk residential facilities. The minimum age for correctional officer employment is also lowered from 19 to 18 in order to increase the labor pool and provide more viable employment opportunities for Floridians.
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I'm honored to serve alongside my fellow Senators and legislators to help make Florida the best place to live, work and raise a family by passing meaningful legislation.
Workforce Development- We created a new high school graduation pathway that allows students to gain valuable work experience through pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships, and other work related programs. This gives our students the chance to master a skill while gaining a conventional education. Additionally, the Last Mile College Completion incentivizes college and university students who are within 12 credit hours of finishing their coursework to return to school and complete their degree.
Texting While Driving Ban: This year the Florida Senate finally passed vital legislation to make Florida's roadways safer by banning texting while driving and requiring hands-free of personal electronics while driving in active school and construction zones.
Assignment of Benefits (AOB): AOB is a predatory practice that lines the pockets of attorneys and vendors at the expense of hardworking Floridians. AOB agreements transfer homeowners insurance benefits to a contractor for home repairs, often in the wake of a natural disaster, so the contractor can work directly with the insurance provider. In 2018, there were over 34,000 AOB-related lawsuits filed in Florida, as compared to only 405 in 2006. The legislation limits attorney fees in AOB cases and authorizes insurers to offer lower-priced policies that would not allow assignment of benefits.
Financial Literacy: This bill honors the late Senator Dorothy Hukill's efforts to ensure high school students are prepared to control the financial responsibilities that come after graduation. Beginning the 2019-2020 school year, students entering 9th grade will be required to complete one-half credit dedicated to personal financial literacy and money management. Balancing a check book, managing personal debt, and understanding federal and state taxes are crucial building blocks for leading a successful life.
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I hope my newsletter was helpful in keeping us connected throughout the Legislative Session. While I'm thankful for everything we accomplished this year, I'm eager to hear from you throughout the summer so we can hit the ground running for District 8 next Session!
Sincerely,
Senator Keith Perry
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