Keith L. Truenow

This bill restores an annual 3% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for state employees enrolled before July 1, 2011, which will cost over $2 billion dollars in FY 2024-2025. The COLA (which was not contracted for nor promised to employees) was reduced in 2011 due to economic downturn. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill worsens Florida's unfunded pension liability crisis which is among the highest in the nation.

Worsening Florida's Unfunded Pension Crisis by Restoring a Fiscally Irresponsible Cost-of-Living Adjustment.

This bill restores the age in which an adult age 18 and older may purchase or receive a firearm after the age requirement was increased to 21 in 2018. Support is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. The state should not infringe the individual liberties of adults who at age 18 can fight for our country, vote and enter into legally binding contracts.

Strengthening Individual Liberties by Restoring the Age to Purchase a Firearm back to 18 after Being Raised to 21 in 2018.

This bill serves as a proactive attempt to block Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC) issued by the U.S. Federal Reserve System. The bill prohibits CBDC issued by the federal government from being regulated as money under the Florida Uniform Commercial Code. Support is the Limited Government Position as President Biden issued an executive order to study creation of such a currency under the guise of protecting consumers from decentralized cryptocurrencies and a way to crack down on financial crimes. The creation of a CBDC serves as an existential threat to individual liberties and privacy and will further grow government control over the economy. The Fed has already placed the U.S. dollar in dire jeopardy of destruction through its reckless quantitative easing and expansionary practices.

Combatting Increased Government Control and Surveillance by Prohibiting Recognition of Federal "Central Bank Digital Currency" as Money Under State Law.

This bill known as the "Prescription Drug Reform Act" imposes a series of new regulations on Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and drug companies. For example, manufacturers must report to the government if the price of one of their drugs increases by more than 15% and PBMs must abide by multiple new provisions in their contracting agreements with local pharmacies as well as meet various insurance and reporting requirements. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the nation witnessed first-hand the disastrous consequences and cost of growing government regulatory power in healthcare (i.e. Obamacare). Instead of working to promote a freer market through regulatory reduction, lawmakers added a series of new layers of regulations through this measure, including utilizing government to provide local pharmacies with more favorable outcomes in their private contract negotiations with PBMs.

Growing Government Regulatory Power within the Pharmaceutical Industry by Imposing a Series of New Mandates on Pharmacy Benefit Managers and Drug Companies.

This bill prohibits public colleges and universities from utilizing state or federal funds on programs or activities that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion or political or social activism. Support is the Limited Government Position as while this bill may raise concerns over government moderation of speech on campus, taxpayers should not be forced to pay for college and university operational costs in the first place - especially for politicized activities. Such actions have led to the creation of countless worthless degree programs and administration waste which are born at the expense of individuals who chose to enter the trades or business and not pursue a degree.

Protecting Taxpayer Funds from Being Utilized for Politicized "Diversity Equity and Inclusion" (DEI) Programs at Public College Campuses

The Valdés amendment to a bill prohibiting various local employment regulations. This amendment adds language allowing localities to require private employers, that hire employees to work outside, to post a sign with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) information on heat illness and heat stress, "in a language understood by all of the employees." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure further expands the government regulatory and nanny state while also creating a new avenue for greedy plaintiffs' attorneys to wage lawfare against small businesses.

Growing the Regulatory State by Allowing Local Governments to Impose a Heat Illness and Heat Stress Poster Mandate on all Outdoor Employers.

This resolution amends the state Constitution to require a vote of two-thirds (66.67%) of the electorate as opposed to three-fifths (60%) of the electorate for citizen-led amendments. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps protect the constitutional amendment process from abuse by special interests and other groups that seek to grow the size and scope of government. In recent years the amendment process has been utilized to raise the state's minimum wage and ban off-shore oil and gas drilling.

Protecting the State's Constitutional Amendment Process from Abuse by Raising the Citizen-led Threshold for Amendments to Two-Thirds Support (Currently 60%).

This bill allows landlords to offer residential tenants the option to pay a fee instead of a security deposit or to pay a security deposit in monthly installments as part of a rental agreement. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens the freedom to contract, and provides landlords and tenants greater flexibility to set housing agreements based on their individual needs.

Expanding the Freedom to Contract by Allowing Landlords to Offer Residential Tenants the Option to Pay a Fee in Lieu of a Security Deposit.

This bill contains several provisions related to retail theft. For example, the bill makes retail theft a felony of the third degree if a group of six or more people act together "for the purpose of overwhelming the response of a merchant, merchant's employee, or law enforcement officer." The bill also lowers the threshold, from $100 to $40, for making "porch piracy" a felony of the third degree. Support is the Limited Government Position as protecting property rights and ensuring public safety serve as essential components of government. Unfortunately, this bill is especially necessary due to many so-called criminal justice "reforms" which have led to skyrocketing crime rates and are being advanced in state legislatures by George Soros and other radical-left billionaires through their funding of advocacy organizations on both sides of the political aisle.

Strengthening Law and Order by Increasing Penalties for Retail Theft.

This bill establishes a 4 year statute of limitation on certain types of lawsuits against home building contractors, while also reducing the statute of repose from 10 to 7 years. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps maintain housing affordability by reducing frivolous construction related litigation which drives up costs for developers and consumers.

Reducing Frivolous Litigation by Shortening the Statute of Limitations for Construction-Related Lawsuits

This bill prohibits a public employer from requiring a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement. Instead, degrees may only be utilized as an alternative to the number of years of direct experience required for a position. Support is the Limited Government Position as government hiring decisions should be based on recruitment of the most talented and qualified applicant for the position. Degree requirements are especially unnecessary in recent years due to the growing number of programs that are politicized and fail to equip students for real-world employment and careers.

Ensuring Government Can Hire the Most Qualified and Talented Employees by Prohibiting Agencies from Requiring College Degrees.

This bill contains a key provision which prohibits the sale or manufacture of lab-grown meat, with violators being guilty of a second-degree misdemeanor. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this government overreach and protectionism is merely designed to enrich the agricultural industry. Consumers should be free to choose what food products they purchase and consume without government interference.

Utilizing Government to Enrich the AG Industry and Restrict Competition through a Draconian   Ban on Selling Lab Grown Meat.

This bill contains several provisions generally reducing regulations on the hours minors may be employed. Most notably, for minors 15 or younger, the 15-hour per week maximum only applies when school is in session, while for minors 16 or 17, the 30-hour per week maximum may be waived by a parent or school superintendent. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill reduces regulations, expanding employment opportunities for minors.

Expanding Employment Opportunities for Minors by Reducing Excessive Regulations on Work Hours.

This bill amends the Florida Minimum Wage Act to incorporate exemptions that were enacted under the federal minimum wage law. As a result, minor league baseball players, babysitters, seasonal amusement workers, and border patrol agents are exempt from the state minimum wage. Support is the Limited Government Position as the minimum wage - like all price controls - distort the marketplace, increasing unemployment for individuals who lack experience or whose productivity does not meet the higher wage level set by government. This measure helps expand employment opportunities by protecting these occupations from the state's lofty minimum wage mandate which is set to rise to $12 an hour this year and $15 an hour by 2026.

Expanding Employment Opportunities by Incorporating Federal Minimum Wage Exemptions into State Law.

The Eskamani amendment #531629 to a bill relating to sex-reassignment procedures allows taxpayer funds to be utilized to provide sex-reassignment procedures or hormone therapies. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while adults should have the freedom to obtain such services, taxpayers should not be forced to pay for sex change operations.

Forcing Taxpayers to Fund Sex-Reassignment Procedures and Hormone Therapies

This bill prohibits local governments from enacting ordinances which ban an individual from owning a dog due to its size or weight. Additionally, the bill nullifies the grandfathered breed restrictions of Miami-Dade County and the City of Sunrise. Support is the Limited Government Position as individuals should have the freedom to own and care for the dog of their choice. Restrictions on dog breed and other characteristics oftentimes result in the placement of dogs in taxpayer-funded shelters and euthanasia.

Combatting Government Overreach by Prohibiting Local Governments from Enacting Ordinances Which Bans Dog Ownership on the Basis of Size or Weight.

This bill prohibits localities from accepting an identification card (aka community ID) or other document if it has been issued by an entity known to provide such identification to illegal immigrants. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps deter illegal immigration, which places an immense strain on U.S. infrastructure and taxpayer resources, ranging from welfare to the education system, while also creating serious national security and human trafficking issues. Lawmakers should focus on growing the U.S. economy through reforms to the immigration system that both increase the number of skilled individuals who may enter and work in our country and reduce human trafficking across our borders.

Strengthening National Security by Prohibiting Localities from Accepting "Community ID" Cards which are Commonly Issued to Illegal Immigrants.

This bill applies to Congress for a convention of the states to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution to establish term limits for members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. Support is the Limited Government Position as term limits are a critical tool to ensure government remains accountable to the people and not lobbyists or special interests. A review of voting records shows the majority of lawmakers become less conservative in their voting the longer they remain in office.

Imposing Term Limits on the U.S. Congress through a Convention of the States Amending the U.S. Constitution.

This bill contains several provisions related to local employment regulations. The bill prohibits local governments across the state from imposing any ordinances which regulate employee scheduling for private employers, unless allowed or required under state or federal law. Localities are also prohibited from using "purchasing or contracting procedures" as a means "to control or affect the wages or employment benefits provided by its vendors, contractors, service providers, or other parties." Finally, the bill prohibits localities from adopting any ordinances which impose "heat exposure requirements" on private employers, unless required under state or federal law. Support is the Limited Government Position as businesses are already significantly financially burdened by a litany of federal and state mandates. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role of any level of government to unduly infringe the rights of individuals and interfere in private contracting arrangements.

Expanding Employment Opportunities by Prohibiting Local Governments from Imposing Various Excessive Employment Regulations.

This resolution amends the state's Constitution to require partisan school board elections, which will be presented before voters in the 2024 election. Under existing law, the state has non-partisan school boards. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps increase transparency of school board candidates and their beliefs, ultimately empowering parents to select the candidate who best aligns with their views. Such information is critical for voters considering how large an impact school board decisions have on students and society, and the fact such decisions have increasingly fallen along political lines.

Increasing Transparency and Parental Control over Education through a Constitutional Amendment to Transition to Partisan School Board Elections.

This bill, the John W. Rheay Act, allows pharmacists to prescribe post-exposure prophylaxis medications if they have a collaborative practice agreement with a physician and complete a course. Pharmacists may also screen for HIV exposure. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill increases healthcare access and lowers costs by providing additional options for individuals seeking treatment.

Increasing Healthcare Access by Expanding Pharmacist Scope of Practice to Include Prescribing HIV Post-Exposure Medications.

This bill allows healthcare providers, and payors to opt out of providing a healthcare service due to a sincerely held religious, moral, or ethical belief. Support is the Limited Government Position as businesses and individuals should have the freedom to contract and not be forced to provide a services that violates their beliefs. Unfortunately, this bill only serves as a step in the right direction as it contains a negative provision which infringes the contracting rights of private companies by forcing them to retain employees who refuse do perform their job because of their belief.

Protecting Religious Liberties of Healthcare Providers and Insurers by Establishing a "Right of Medical Conscience".

This bill requires counties with at least 75,000 residents and municipalities with at least 10,000 residents to adopt an expedited building permit program, allowing for up to 50% of a project's permits to be issued before final approval (this increases to 75% by December 31, 2027). Support is the Limited Government Position as permitting delays can result in substantial additional costs imposed on builders and property owners and this bill helps strengthen government accountability.

Reducing Home Construction Costs by Requiring Localities to Adopt an Expedited Building Permit Process.

This bill makes a number of reforms to the state's Consumer Finance Law, including raising the maximum allowable interest rate on consumer loans from 30% to 36%. The bill is designed to slightly loosen government restrictions and price controls on interest due to high inflation and national interest rates. Support is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not government price controls - is the best mechanism to ensure the lowest borrowing rates and greatest available credit options for all borrowers. This slight regulatory relief will help expand borrowing and lending opportunities.

Expanding Borrowing and Lending Opportunities by Raising the Maximum Allowable Interest Rate on Consumer Loans from 30% to 36%.

This bill requires weapons and arms taken by police during an arrest to be returned to the owner after their release from jail, rather than after a trial, unless the weapons are evidence or forfeited under state law. The weapons must be returned within 30 days of a request if the person is released from jail and completes a background check. The bill also ensures that a firearm taken by police without a search warrant is returned (a judge previously had to order it be returned). Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens property rights and civil liberties.

Strengthening Property Rights and Civil Liberties by Requiring Seized Firearms to be Returned if Not for Evidence or Forfeited.

This bill prohibits localities from banning or restricting g the use of gas stoves, grills and other appliances fueled by natural gas. Support is the Limited Government Position as a number of local governments across the country have infringed the rights of their residents to utilize natural gas in order to advance a politized environmental agenda. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe the rights of individuals, therefore making preemption measures, such as this bill, necessary.

Combatting Government Overreach by Preventing Local Government Bans Gas-Powered Stoves and Other Appliances.

This bill establishes a "Digital Bill of Rights" through a series of new regulations on tech companies that generate over a billion dollars in revenue. The bill's provisions cover issues ranging from content moderation, targeted advertising, search engine operations and data privacy with expanded opt-out rules. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows government power and the regulatory state. While there is a role of government to protect individuals from fraudulent practices this overreach significantly limits the ability of tech companies to provide targeted and low-cost advertising to consumers. Additionally, the bill applies the regulations to only certain companies resulting in market manipulation and competitive advantages.

Imposing a Series of New Costly and Overreaching Government Regulations on Large Tech Companies through a "Digital Bill of Rights".

This bill applies to Congress for a convention of the states to propose an amendment to the U.S. Constitution to require a balanced federal budget, except in the case of a national emergency. Support is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Restoring Fiscal Sanity in the U.S. Government by Applying for a Convention of the States to Amend the Constitution for a Balanced Federal Budget.

This bill contains several provisions related to energy and the environment. Among the provisions is an increase, from 15 miles to 100 miles, in the maximum length of natural gas pipelines, before certification is required under the Natural Gas Transmission Pipeline Siting Act. The bill also prohibits the construction or expansion of offshore wind energy facilities, wind turbines and wind energy facilities within 1 mile of the coastline or intercoastal waterways and in state waters, among other restrictions. The bill also eliminates the requirement that the state and local governments purchase and lease vehicles based on the "greatest fuel efficiency." Furthermore, the bill updates the legislative intent of the state's energy policy by eliminating several provisions related to climate change, with the policy being "to ensure an adequate, reliable, and cost-effective supply of energy for the state in a manner that promotes the health and welfare of the public and economic growth." Finally, the bill also repeals the Florida Energy and Climate Protection Act, repeals the Florida Green Government Grants Act, and the Energy Economic Zone Pilot Program. Support is the Limited Government Position as while the bill does contain some slightly negative provisions related to power plant retirement and utility company recovery of natural gas facilities relocation costs, the bill largely strengthens property rights and helps combat government overreach.

Strengthening Property Rights and Combatting Government Overreach Through an Omnibus Energy Bill.

This bill expands eligibility for the Florida Kidcare (healthcare) welfare program by raising the income limit from 200% to 300% of the federal poverty level. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure traps additional families into government dependency by further expanding the welfare state. The private sector (through charitable endeavors) is best equipped to direct aid and assistance to those who truly need it, and help families become self-sufficient, rather than ineffective government welfare systems.

Growing Government Dependency by Significantly Raising the Income Limit for Eligibility Under the Kidcare Welfare Program.

The Roach amendment #052843 to a bill which contains several provisions related to government accountability. This amendment eliminates language in the bill which exempts mayors and elected officials of localities with a population of 500 or less from financial disclosure requirements. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment strengthens government integrity by helping ensure officials at all levels of government are held accountable.

Strengthening Government Transparency and Accountability by Removing Financial Disclosure Exemption for Mayors of Small Localities.

This bill, the Resiliency and Safe Structures Act, blocks localities from enacting any ordinances that would prohibit a property owner from demolishing an unsafe building in disrepair and redeveloping the property with a new structure, if the property is on the water side of the "coastal construction control line." The bill is in response to some property owners who have been unable to demolish their older buildings and redevelop the high-value real estate. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens property rights by ensuring owners and developers can maximize the usage of their land. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe the rights of individuals, therefore making preemption measures, such as this bill, necessary.

Strengthening Property Rights by Overriding Local Bans on Building Demolitions which Prevent New Development.

This bill, part of the "Let Kids be Kids" legislative package, helps increase school choice by allowing private charter school, virtual school, and home school students participate in sports and other extracurricular activities at other public or private schools, regardless of zip code. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes by removing a barrier which may have prevented families from pursuing school choice.

Reducing a Barrier to School Choice by Ensuring Charter School Students May Participate in Extracurricular Activities.

This bill appropriates $200 million to the Department of Financial Services for the "My Safe Florida Home Program" for FY 2024-2025. This program provides grants for "Hurricane Mitigation" inspections and projects. The bill also requires priority be given to low-income individuals 60 or older, then low-income individuals, then moderate-income individuals 60 or older, then moderate-income individuals, and then remaining individuals. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further expands government and wealth redistribution. It is the duty of the individuals who chose to purchase homes to make the necessary investments in securing their properties - not other individuals and property owners.

Expanding Wealth Redistribution Through Another $200 Million for "Hurricane Mitigation" Inspections and Projects with Priority Based on Income and Age.

This bill prohibits local governments from taking actions which prevent residential property owners from placing temporary shelters on their property for up to 36 months following property damage due to a natural disaster. The property owner must make a good faith effort to rebuild their home during this time period. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens property rights and helps protect individuals from unnecessary government burdens as they work to rebuild from a natural disaster.

Strengthening Property Rights by Preventing Local Government Bans on Temporary Shelters Following a Hurricane or Other Natural Disaster.

This bill allows credit unions to qualify as qualified public depositories (QPDs), which is currently limited to just banks and certain savings associations. The bill caps public deposits held by an individual credit union to 10% of its assets, and credit unions collectively are limited to 15% of the state's public deposits. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill expands competition among financial institutions, providing greater returns on investment funds. All public investment actions should be based on producing the maximum return and value for taxpayers. While the bill raised concerns over credit unions tax-exempt status, any concerns over "unequal taxation" should be addressed by lawmakers through other measures.

Increasing Public Investment Returns Through Expanded Competition by Allowing Credit Unions to Hold Public Funds.

This bill provides that if a person travels into a county they don't reside in, with intent to commit grand theft or any forcible felony, the offense classification is increased one level. Previously, this only applied to burglary. This does not apply to certain individuals, such as first-time offenders. Support is the Limited Government Position as protecting property rights and ensuring public safety serve as essential components of government. Unfortunately, this bill is especially necessary due to many so-called criminal justice "reforms" which have led to skyrocketing crime rates and are being advanced in state legislatures by George Soros and other radical-left billionaires through their funding of advocacy organizations on both sides of the political aisle.

Strengthening Law and Order by Increasing Penalties for Certain Cross-County Crimes.

This bill requires mayors and elected members of municipal governing boards to file more detailed financial disclosure reports, similar to ones required for state lawmakers, county commissioners and school board members. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps reduce corruption and conflicts of interest by strengthening transparency and accountability while helping ensure government is accountable to the people.

Strengthening Government Transparency and Accountability by Increasing Financial Disclosure Requirements for Local Elected Officials.

This bill establishes restrictions on the advertising practices that some trial attorneys have utilized to draw customers for cases relating to medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Under the bill, legal service ads may not use language such as "medical alert" or "health alert," or use state of federal government logos. The bill is in response to some ads that made unfounded claims about products and scared individuals into discontinuing their medications. Support is the Limited Government Position as while the U.S. Constitution rightfully protects free speech, government also has a role to prevent defamation and ensure that the legal system is protected from abuse. Reforms such as this measure help improve the state's legal and business climate which has a reputation of being a "judicial hell hole".

Improving the State's Legal Climate through Restrictions on Misleading Medical-Related Advertisements which Spark Frivolous Litigation.

This bill expands eligibility for the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program to all residents and eliminates household income restrictions. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.

Improving Educational Outcomes by Expanding School Choice Under the Family Empowerment Scholarship Program to all Families.

This bill amends the state's waiting period for retail firearm purchases. Under existing law, the waiting period is 3 business days or until a background check is complete, whichever is later. This bill removes the provision related to background checks, which allowed the waiting period to extend past 3 business days. As a result, the waiting period cannot extend past 3 business days. Support is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. This measure helps reduce unnecessary barriers for lawful individuals wishing to exercise their Second Amendment rights, barriers which do nothing to deter criminals from engaging in unlawful behavior.

Strengthening Second Amendment Rights by Amending the Firearm Purchase Waiting Period.

This bill prohibits localities from imposing any additional regulations on landlord-tenant relationships than what is already permitted by the state. This preemption bill includes issues relating to security deposits, rental applications and fees, and lease terms and conditions. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure protects against local government overreach when infringes contracting rights and ultimately drives up housing costs and rental rates. While some may argue this bill undermines "local control", our founding fathers only recognized three entities within the U.S. Constitution - federal government, state government, and the individual. It is not the role for any level of government to unduly infringe the rights of individuals, therefore making preemption measures, such as this bill, necessary.

Combatting Government Overreach by Preventing Localities from Imposing Additional Regulations on Landlord-Tenant Contracts.

This bill contains several provisions generally expanding school choice. Most notably, the bill increases the number of scholarships available under the Family Empowerment Scholarship for students with disabilities by 5% annually (previously 3%). The number increases by an additional 1% if more than 95% of available scholarships were used the previous year. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.

Improving Educational Outcomes by Increasing the Number of School Choice Scholarships Available for Students with Disabilities Under the Family Empowerment Scholarship.

This bill exempts gold, silver, platinum, and other bullion from the definition of "secondhand goods," thus allowing dealers to buy and sell precious metals and coins without having to hold them for 30 days. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure eliminates an unnecessary regulation and helps ensure gold and silver bullion can serve as a competitive currency to the dollar. This is especially critical considering the reckless policies of the Federal Reserve such as quantitative easing.

Exempting Bullion Businesses from Unnecessary "Secondhand Good" Regulations thus No Longer Requiring them to Hold Gold and Silver Coins for 30 Days.

This bill includes multiple provisions which strengthen "right to work" protections for public employees. For example, the bill no longer allows dues to be deducted from workers' paychecks, instead requiring members to make their payments to unions. Additionally, the bill requires recertification of unions whose membership includes fewer than 60 percent of employees. The bill includes exemptions for certain public-sector unions such as law enforcement Support is the Limited Government Position as while the state should not collectively bargain with any union as such action unnecessarily drives up taxpayer costs, this measure helps reduce labor union power and strengthens the "right to work".

Strengthening "Right to Work" Protections for Public Employees through a Prohibition on Deducting Union Dues from Paychecks and Bargaining Agent Recertification.

This resolution provides "That all executive agencies of the State of Florida, all law enforcement agencies, and all local governments in this state are strongly encouraged to suspend contact and outreach activities with the Council on American-Islamic Relations." The resolution references several individuals who have been affiliated with CAIR that have been charged with crimes related to supporting terrorism. Support is the Limited Government Position as government entities should not associate with entities representing national security risks.

Strengthening National Security by Urging State Agencies to Disassociate from the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR).

This bill contains a number of provisions that are designed to prevent wrongdoing by voter registration groups. For example, the bill prohibits organizations from mailing pre-filled voter registration applications and permits only U.S. citizens to collect the applications. Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining safeguards to prevent voter fraud are critical aspects of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic

Strengthening Election Integrity through a Series of Reforms to Prevent Wrongdoing by Voter Registration Groups.

This bill makes a series of changes to the parole system, generally reducing penalties on offenders who violate the terms of their probation. For example, the bill reduces judicial discretion by now placing a limit on the amount of time a court may hold an offender in jail for certain parole violations. Additionally, offenders can no longer be held accountable for previous parole violations that were addressed through the "alternative sanctioning program" in the event the offender's parole is revoked due to additional offenses. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure advances further crime by limiting the ability of courts to hold offenders accountable and protect communities. Unfortunately, this bill represents one of many so-called criminal justice "reforms" which have led to skyrocketing crime rates and are being advanced in state legislatures by George Soros and other left-leaning Billionaires through their funding of advocacy organizations.

Increasing Crime and Weakening Public Safety Through a Criminal Justice "Reform" Which Reduces Accountability within the Parole System.

This bill allows companies that install, operate, or maintain school bus traffic infraction cameras to receive a portion of the fines from violations. The bill also allows school districts to use the fines for, among other uses, "driver recruitment and retention stipends." Additionally, the bill allows the photos and videos recorded by the system to be used to enforce other traffic violations. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill fuels policing for profit by allowing companies to keep a portion of the fines from violations. Additionally, similar systems (speed cameras) have been abused by countless local governments across the nation to produce revenue, and the significant increases in automated traffic systems brings up valid concerns regarding civil liberties and the growth of government tracking and surveillance.

Growing the Surveillance State and Encouraging "Taxation Through Citation" by Allowing School Bus Camera Companies to Receive Funds from Fines and Expanding Permitted Uses of Recordings.

This bill dedicates $100 million annually the Department of Environmental Protection to continually purchase additional land for the Florida Forever conservation and recreation program. The state is currently tasked with managing and maintaining over 4 million acres of land under its control. This is further worsened through other measures such as SB 106, which provided $200 million to the Department of Transportation for Florida Shared-Use Nonmotorized Trail Network projects such as trails and bike paths. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is best equipped to manage and maximize land utilization - including for conservation purposes. Further growing government control and ownership of land merely drives up taxpayer costs and leads to further government spending initiatives, such as SB 106 which forces taxpayers to spend $200 million to create trails and bike paths on the state's ballooning land holdings.

Further Growing Government's Unsustainable Land Holdings through a $100 Million Annual Appropriation to the Florida Forever Program.

This resolution amends the state Constitution by doubling the tangible personal property ad valorem tax exemption from $25,000 to $50,000. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps provide broad tax relief to Floridians.

Providing Tax Relief by Amending the State Constitution to Double the Tangible Personal Property Tax Exemption to $50,000.

This bill requires local governments to produce a "business impact estimate" before enacting an ordinance. These estimates must contain information on the direct economic impact, compliance cost, and government regulatory cost of the ordinance. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps combat government overreach and growth by increasing transparency surrounding the impact new ordinances will have on local communities.

Combatting Overregulation by Local Governments by Requiring Business Impact Estimates Before Localities Enact Ordinances.

This bill strengthens the ability of the Office of Statewide Prosecution (OSP) to prosecute election-related crimes. The bill clarifies OSP has the power to prosecute any crime involving voter registration, petition activities for a referendum, a candidate for federal or state office, or voting in an election if the crime falls in more than one judicial circuit. Support is the Limited Government Position as combatting and prosecuting voter fraud is a critical aspect of ensuring free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

Increasing Election Integrity by Strengthening the Ability of the State to Prosecute Election-Related Crimes

This bill prohibits the use of politicized ESG (environmental, social, and governance) considerations in state and local investments, such as pension systems, which may reduce taxpayer returns. Support is the Limited Government Position as all public investment actions should be based on producing the maximum return and value for taxpayers, not advancing political or social agendas. Unfortunately, the bill did include a negative provision which infringes the right of private financial institutions to make their own lending decisions on the basis of factors such as political belief or business sector (ex. firearms or fossil fuels) - which goes against the principles of limited government.

Protecting Taxpayers by Prohibiting ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Considerations in State and Local Investments.

This bill makes it a crime to approach within 25 feet and harass on-duty first responders, after being warned not to approach. This includes law enforcement, probation officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. A violation is a misdemeanor of the second degree (up to 60 days in jail and/or up to a $500 fine). Support is the Limited Government Position as, while police should be held accountable for their actions, this measure provides a critical protection to ensure safety in dangerous situations.

Strengthening Law and Order and Safety for First Responders by Criminalizing Harassment.

This bill requires localities to produce a "business impact estimate" for ordinances related to land development and zoning, which were previously exempt from this requirement. The report must summarize the regulation and provide an estimate of the economic impact, such as costs and fees for businesses. Additionally, the bill requires that a local referendum authorizing a locality to issue bonds (debt) over $500 million must take place at a general election. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps combat government overreach and growth by increasing transparency surrounding the impact new ordinances will have on local communities. Furthermore, this bill helps protect taxpayers as turnout for local referendums is much lower than a general election, therefore reducing the likelihood that special interests push through unnecessary spending.

Combatting Local Government Overreach by Reducing Loopholes to the "Business Impact Estimate" that Protect Businesses from Overregulation.

This bill establishes a series of new regulations pertaining to the usage of titles such as "Doctor" and "Physician". The bill is primarily intended to prohibit optometrists from calling themselves physicians, as part of the "eyeball wars" between optometrists and ophthalmologists who are medical doctors specializing in eyecare. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as like many other measures pertaining to title protection, product labeling, and licensing, this bill is primarily designed to utilize government power to restrict competition. The private sector through license issuance, certification and review systems is best equipped to protect and educate consumers on the most qualified and competent individuals in their respective fields.

Invoking Government Overreach into the Private Sector Concerning the Usage of the Term "Physician" as Part of the "Eyeball Wars" between Optometrists and Ophthalmologists.

This bill appropriates $500,000 to the Department of Health for a "Swimming Lesson Voucher Program" which provides free swimming lessons for children 4 or younger with a household income of up to 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this new welfare program merely further fuels runaway government spending. The funding of "swimming lessons" is not a proper role of government.

Growing the Size and Role of Government Through a "Swimming Lesson Voucher Program".

This bill makes several changes to pretrial bail release laws. For example the bill prohibits judicial circuits from establishing local bond amounts that are less than the uniform statewide amounts, while also prohibiting a person from being released before appearing before a judge if they were arrested for a felony and already on probation or arrested at least three times in the last six months for the same offense. Support is the Limited Government Position as upholding law and order and ensuring public safety serve as essential functions of government. This measure is especially necessary considering the rising crime rates that have resulted from catch-and-release policies and poorly crafted criminal justice "reforms".

Strengthening Public Safety by Reforming Pre-Trial Bail Laws to Combat "Catch-and-Release" Practices

This bill is designed to curb illegal immigration by implementing a series of new policies. For example, the bill prohibits local governments from issuing ID cards to those residing in the country unlawfully, enhances penalties for human trafficking, requires DNA samples from those subject to federal detainers, and increases E-Verify requirements. Support is the Limited Government Position as the promotion of an open-border immigration system places an immense strain on U.S. infrastructure and taxpayer resources, ranging from welfare to the education system, while also creating serious national security and human trafficking issues. Lawmakers should focus on growing the U.S. economy through reforms to the immigration system that both increase the number of skilled individuals who may enter and work in our country and reduce human trafficking across our borders.

Strengthening National Security through a Series of New Policies to Combat Illegal Immigration and Human Trafficking

This bill requires the Department of Environmental Protection to "develop a comprehensive waste reduction and recycling plan." The plan must include several components, such as "Identify recycling goals based on sustainable materials management and waste diversion" and recommendations "to develop and promote markets for recycling materials." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further expands the size and role of government. It is the role of the private sector at the local level - not central planning by state bureaucrats - to carry out the most efficient and effective recycling initiatives.

Expanding Government Overreach and Central Planning by Mandating a State-Wide "Waste Reduction and Recycling Plan".

This bill contains several provisions pertaining to the Department of Commerce. Most notably, the bill creates the "Supply Chain Innovation Grant Program", which awards grants to certain companies and projects selected by employees within the Department of Commerce and the Department of Transportation. Additionally, the bill extends the repayment period for loans under the Local Government Emergency Revolving Bridge Loan Program, which provides interest-free loans, from 5 to 10 years. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only does this measure increase taxpayer spending, it also places taxpayer funds at greater risk.

Expanding Cronyism through a New "Supply Chain Grant Program" and Increasing Subsidies for Government-Favored Entities.

This bill implements a series of reforms to usage of the "Brady List" (tracks officer misconduct across the country) by law enforcement agencies. For example, the bill prohibits agencies from firing or taking disciplinary action against an officer solely because of their inclusion on the list, as well as provides officers the ability to petition the court to remove their name. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens government integrity and due process rights, while helping ensure good officers are not harmed by unjust actions in anti-police jurisdictions and also ensuring bad actors are known and accounted for.

Increasing Government Integrity and Due Process for Law Enforcement Officers Accused of Misconduct through Reforms to the "Brady List".

The Bartleman amendment #010837 to a bill pertaining to the minimum age for firearm transfers. Under this amendment, individuals may no longer receive a firearm through a family transfer until they are 21 years of age (currently 18 years of age. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. This government overreach could create significant issues in cases of estates and the transfer of family heirlooms.

Advancing Government Overreach by No Longer Allowing an Individual Under 21 from Receiving a Firearm through a Family Transfer (Family Heirlooms).

This bill restores the age at which an adult age 18 and older may purchase or receive a firearm after the age requirement was increased to 21 in 2018. Support is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. The state should not infringe the individual liberties of adults who at age 18 can fight for our country, vote, and enter into legally binding contracts.

Year	Edu	Energy & Env	Speech	Health	Liberty	Law & Gov	Security	Reg	Tax & Fiscal	Work & Labor
2024	100	75	100	33.33	75	90.91	86.67	66.67	38.46	100
2023	100	0	100	0	100	95.65	80	61.11	50	75

ILA

Keith L. Truenow