Geraldine F. Thompson

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, known as the "Live Local Act," appropriates $711 million in taxpayer funds to fund various "affordable housing" initiatives. The bill including $259 million in loans to certain developers and a sales tax credit of up to $5,000 for materials used to build affordable housing units. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only does this bill fuel cronyism by enriching select developers through government central planning, but also represents a roughly $34.00 unnecessary tax burden on every one of Florida's 22 million residents. Instead of growing government and central planning, lawmakers should empower the free market to make housing truly "affordable" by reducing stringent zoning regulations which a recent study by Florida State University found has significantly driven up housing costs.

Forcing Taxpayers to Spend $711 Million on Various Government "Affordable Housing" Programs to Enrich Select Developers and Special Interests

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

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 requires social media companies to verify that any person making an account is 14 or older, and to prohibit anyone under 14 from doing so. The bill also requires any website that "contains a substantial portion of material harmful to minors," such as sexual content, to verify that any person accessing the website is 18 or older. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while the intent of this bill is noble, it is the role of parents - not politicians - to oversee their children's social media usage. Additionally, the photo ID requirements for all users weaken privacy rights, while also placing unnecessary burdens on social media companies and users. This bill expands the nanny state by imposing new regulations on private companies.

Expanding Government Overreach by Requiring Age Verification for All Social Media Users.

This bill authorizes qualifying adults 21 years and older to carry a concealed firearm without having to obtain a special permit from the state - a measure commonly referred to as "constitutional carry". 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 Enacting "Constitutional Carry" thus Allowing Qualified Adults 21 and Older to Carry a Concealed Firearm without a Special Permit

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 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 contains a key provision which prohibits the usage of local voter referendums or initiatives to challenge local land development. The bill is partially in response to a case in Miami beach where environmental activists blocked a hotel and condo project from being constructed. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens property rights and is especially necessary given actions taken by some environmental activists to block reasonable development initiatives.

Strengthening Property Rights by Banning Local Voter Referendums Related to Land Development Which are Primarily Utilized by Environmental Activists to Hinder Growth.

This bill provides that if an individual has previously been convicted of "reentry of removed aliens" under federal law, and commits a felony, the offense classification is increased one level. The bill also provides for a one-level classification increase for any misdemeanor or felony committed "for the purpose of benefiting, promoting, or furthering the interests of a transnational crime organization," such as organizations regularly involved in drug or weapon trafficking or human trafficking or smuggling. 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 Law and Order by Increasing Penalties for Deported Illegal Immigrants who Reenter and Commit Crime and for Crimes Related to Human Trafficking or Smuggling.

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 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 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".

This bill largely prevents a local government from forcing a contractor to pay the "prevailing wage" rates. This is accomplished by expanding the definition of public works projects to also include projects using local funds. The prevailing wage is an above-market rate typically linked to labor unions. Support is the Limited Government Position as prevailing wage mandates needlessly drive-up taxpayer costs by imposing significant additional costs onto government contractors.

Protecting Taxpayers by Prohibiting Prevailing Wage Requirements in Local Public Works Contracts.

This bill contains several provisions which expand occupational license reciprocity. Most notably, the bill enacts the Mobile Opportunity by Interstate Licensure Endorsement (MOBILE) Act, which requires the Department of Health to issue an occupational license within 7 days to individuals who hold a license in another state, has passed a national examination or is nationally certified, has practiced for 3 of the past 4 years, and meets other requirements. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill serves as a step in the right direction to reducing unnecessary employment barriers and expanding access to healthcare. Ultimately, the private sector, via certifications, rating systems, and the free market, is much better equipped to provide consumer protection while also ensuring competition and low consumer costs. Most government licensing entities are overly restrictive and are largely advocated by special interests seeking to restrict competition in the marketplace.

Reducing Employment Barriers and Improving Access to Healthcare by Expanding Occupational Licensing Reciprocity.

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 bill prevents state employees and officers from downloading or accessing TikTok or other applications controlled by U.S. foreign adversaries such as China or Russia on state devices or networks. Support is the Limited Government Position as the installation of such systems poses a significant and unnecessary threat to state and federal networks. Additionally, state employees should not be utilizing government equipment to access entertainment apps such as TikTok.

Strengthening National Security by Banning TikTok and Other Chinese Government-Owned Applications from Being Accessed on State-Issued Devices or Networks.

The Gruters amendment #345598 to a bill related to public employee unions. This amendment modifies a provision in the bill that requires a union to petition for recertification if less than 60% of employees submit an authorization form and pay dues (previously only required if less than 60% paid dues). The amendment eliminates language pertaining to authorization forms, requiring a petition for recertification only if less than 60% pay dues. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the government issued membership form serves as a critical informational tool to help dissuade union membership by ensuring public employees are properly informed of their rights before joining a union. Public sector collective bargaining unnecessarily hikes taxpayer costs while making it harder to reward top-performing employees and dismiss poor-performing employees. All employees should have the "right to work" without being forced to join a labor union.

Weakening "Right to Work" Protections for Public Employees by Undermining Reform of the Membership Authorization Process.

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 requires an individual or activist group who unsuccessfully challenges a local land development plan to reimburse the legal fees of the developer. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens property rights by helping reduce frivolous challenges by environmental activist groups that are designed to hinder land use and development and impose significant legal costs to developers and property owners.

Strengthening Property Rights by Requiring Individuals and Activist Groups who Unsuccessfully Challenge a Development Plan to Reimburse the Legal Fees of the Developer.

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 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. Gold and Silver Bullion from Unnecessary "Secondhand Goods" Regulation

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 appropriations bill funds government from July 1, 2023 until June 30, 2024. The bill hikes spending by 7.5% over the previous year, to a record level of over $117 billion. The bill also contains another $6 billion in the "back of the budget", which could further balloon spending to $123 billion. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this reckless spending not only continues to grow the size and scope of government, but also places taxpayers in a precarious situation in the event of an economic downturn. Lawmakers should have instead held spending in check to the prior year and provided taxpayers with meaningful reductions as opposed to a sales tax cut for just certain government-favored items.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through a Record $117 Billion Budget Bill which Represents a 7.5% Hike from the Prior Year.

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 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 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, 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 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 prohibits local governments across the state from imposing any ordinance which allows individuals "to regularly engage in public camping or sleeping on any public property." Under the bill, counties are permitted to designate areas on public property for this purpose for up to 1 year, if approved by the Department of Children and Families, but must provide restrooms, prohibit illegal drug and alcohol use, and meet other requirements. Support is the Limited Government Position as homeless encampments on sidewalks and streets present many health and safety concerns, including increased crime rates, open drug use, and sanitary concerns.

Strengthening Public Safety by Prohibiting Localities from Allowing Homeless Encampments on Public Sidewalks and Streets.

This bill establishes new regulations on the warranty offerings of manufacturers of Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) systems. Under the bill, manufacturers may no longer provide warranty offerings that are tied to an individual, rather they may only offer warranties that are tied to properties and are transferable. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure further grows the government regulatory state to now dictate the private warranty offerings of manufactures. As a result, consumers will likely no longer be able to enjoy extended-term, lifetime and other promotional warranty options that companies may offer due to the reduced percentage of long-term product ownership by one individual.

Imposing New Government Mandates on HVAC System Manufacturer Warranties which Limit Consumer Options.

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 requires any iron or steel materials utilized in public works projects to be sourced from the United States unless the sourcing drives up the total cost of the project by more than 20 percent. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this "protectionist" interference by government in the free market unnecessarily drives-up costs to taxpayers. Free trade has been a foundational principle of limited government dating back to Adam Smith, the father of modern economics, who identified the disastrous consequences of protectionist trade practices in the "Wealth of Nations" in 1776.

Hiking Taxpayer-Funded Public Works and Infrastructure Costs as Much as 20% through Protectionist "U.S. Made" Iron and Steel Procurement Mandates.

This bill increases the penalty for driving without a license by making the second and subsequent violations a misdemeanor of the first degree, with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 days in jail for a third offense. 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 Public Safety by Increasing Penalties for Repeatedly Driving Without a License.

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 resolution amends the state's Constitution to establish a right to hunt and fish, including the use of "traditional methods," which will be presented before voters in the 2024 election. Support is the Limited Government Position as government should not unduly infringe the right to responsibly and humanely hunt and fish, and this measure protects those liberties.

Protecting the Right to Hunt and Fish through a State Constitutional Amendment.

This bill contains several provisions related to public employee unions. Most notably, the bill requires that, to join a union, public employees must fill out an authorization form from the Public Employee Relations Commission and send it to the union, rather than a form from the union. Additionally, a union must petition for recertification if less than 60% of employees submit an authorization form and pay dues (previously only required if less than 60% paid dues). Finally, the bill allows the Commission to revoke the certification of a union for refusing to allow the inspection of authorization forms and revocations. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill ensures public employees are properly informed of their rights before joining a union. Public sector collective bargaining unnecessarily hikes taxpayer costs while making it harder to reward top-performing employees and dismiss poor-performing employees. All employees should have the "right to work" without being forced to join a labor union.

Strengthening "Right to Work" Protections for Public Employees Through Reforms to the Union Membership Authorization Process.

This bill bans automobile manufacturers from selling cars directly to consumers (with a carveout to select electric vehicle manufacturers) as well as enacts numerous new regulations concerning the contracting agreements between manufacturers and dealers. For example, the bill requires manufacturers to provide dealers an 8% cut of any revenue they receive through remote upgrades to vehicles, places controls on vehicle pricing agreements, and regulates the vehicle ordering process. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure represents one of the very worst examples of cronyism and utilization of government power to enrich one party (dealerships) at the expense of another party (manufactures) in contracting agreements which should be privately negotiated without any government involvement. Furthermore, forcing consumes to go through dealers (middlemen) instead of giving them the option to buy direct from manufacturers hikes vehicle costs by thousands of dollars, while also providing select EV manufacturers a competitive advantage.

Hiking New Car Prices by Blocking Manufacturers from Selling Directly to Consumers and Imposing Dozens of New Mandates to Enrich Automobile Dealerships.

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 on Gas-Powered Stoves and Other Appliances.

This bill prohibits public college and university teaching programs from including "identity politics" or violating the "Florida Educational Equity Act", which bans Critical Race Theory (CRT). Programs also "May not distort significant historical events" or be "based on theories that systemic racism, sexism, oppression, and privilege are inherent in the institutions of the United States and were created to maintain social, political, and economic inequities." Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to promote CRT or similar concepts which are ideologies that sow division amongst Americans and are intended to further grow the role of government.

Protecting Teaching Programs from Critical Race Theory and Similar Politicized Concepts.

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 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 authorizes counties and municipalities to deploy speed cameras on roadways designated as school zones. Motorists would receive fines for exceeding a posted speed limit by 10mph. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these systems have been abused by countless local governments across the nation to produce revenue, many of which place such devices not at spots closest to schools but at locations most likely to catch speeders. Additionally, 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 Authorizing "Taxation through Citation" by Allowing Local Governments to Deploy Speed Cameras in School Zones.

This bill requires the Florida Department of Transportation to start regulating and inspecting the Monorail transit system at the Walt Disney World theme parks. This measure would mark the first time the system has been subjected to regulations since its establishment over 50 years ago and has been operating without any safety incidents in nearly 15 years. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill harms the private sector by further growing the size and scope of the government regulatory state. All individuals and private businesses should be free to express their views as protected under the 1stAmendment - and face the repercussions of their actions in the marketplace. Disney has lost billions of dollars since its public opposition to a bill which strengthened parental rights in education. This bill establishes a dangerous precedent in which government is grown and weaponized to attack free speech and political opponents.

Weakening Government Integrity by Imposing New Regulations on Disney's Monorail to Advance a Political Agenda.

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 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.

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 redevelop the property with a new structure. 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 establishes a $200 annual license tax for electric vehicles and a $50 annual license tax for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, both of which will increase by $50 in January 2028, with an exemption for vehicles with small batteries up to 5 kw hours. This measure serves as a replacement for reduced gasoline tax revenues, as the revenue from these new taxes are split 64/36 between the state and counties/municipalities. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps ensure all motorists contribute equally to infrastructure - regardless of the propulsion system of their vehicle. Failure to enact such a bill shifts tax burdens to drivers of internal combustion-powered vehicles due to the growing usage of electric-powered vehicles.

Ensuring Equal Taxation for Roadway Usage by Establishing a $200 Annual License Tax for Electric Vehicles and a $50 Tax for Plug-in Hybrids.

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 lets the Public Service Commission authorize electric and natural gas public utilities to construct renewable natural gas facilities and hydrogen fuel infrastructure projects. The utility company would then be able to collect the cost of this more expensive fuel from their customers (plus a higher guaranteed profit for the utility). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as all energy procurement by utility companies (government-granted monopolies) should be based on the lowest cost fuel source for their customers. This cronyism enriches entities involved with renewable natural gas and hydrogen - well as utility companies - at the expense of everyday Floridians and businesses.

Hiking the Utility Costs of Floridians to Subsidize "Renewable Natural Gas and Hydrogen Fuels" and Enrich Utility Companies.

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.

This Senate Memorial urges Congress to prohibit "'woke' social engineering and experimentation practices" in the U.S. military that overemphasize diversity and inclusion and instead return to a merit-based system for military force development and composition. Support is the Limited Government Position as military force recruitment, development and operations should be based on merit and ensuring servicemembers are best equipped to defend our nation. Politicized measures surrounding diversity, inclusion and social engineering should not be advanced in our armed forces.

Urging Congress to End the Usage of "Woke" Social and Diversity Practices in the Military and Return to a Merit-Based System to Development and Composition.

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 each public university in the state to establish an Office of Public Policy Events (OPPE) and hold at least 4 debates and forums on public policy issues each year. The bill also requires that if a school's OPPE can't "readily find an advocate from within the state university community who is well-versed in a perspective," the office can invite a speaker and provide a per-diem (no cap) and a reimbursement for travel expenses Oppose is the Limited Government Position as just like what was stated in the bill position for SB 266 concerning DEI, taxpayers should not be forced to pay for college and university operational costs - especially for politicized activities.. While the bill contains a positive provision prohibiting political loyalty tests for employment and admission, this does not outweigh the political weaponization and expansion of government included in this bill.

Forcing Taxpayers to Fund a New Bureaucracy at Public Universities and Pay for Debates and Candidate Forums.

This bill updates state and local procurement requirements to allow agencies to purchase electric vehicles if they are the lowest cost option. Under the bill, vehicle purchases are to be based on "the lowest lifetime ownership costs" rather than "the greatest fuel efficiency available." Support is the Limited Government Position as government procurement should be based on providing the lowest cost and greatest value to taxpayers. While government should not favor electric vehicles for environmental or other politicized reasons, as EV costs decline, such vehicular option should be considered in procurement.

Protecting Taxpayers by Requiring State and Local Agency Vehicle Purchases to be "Based on the Lowest Lifetime Ownership Costs".

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 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 expands the size of the Florida State Guard (FSG) from 400 to 1,500 members and makes the unit permanent (previously set to expire July 1). The bill also creates a specialized unit that is authorized to carry arms and assist law enforcement. The FSG is made up of volunteers and serves as an additional to Florida's National Guard. Support is the Limited Government Position as the promotion of an open-border immigration system by the Federal government has placed an immense strain on taxpayer resources and this unit is necessary to bolster law enforcement, combat human trafficking and improve the state's response in national disasters.

Strengthening State and National Security by Expanding the Size of the Florida State Guard and Improving Cooperation with Law Enforcement.

This bill establishes the "Health Care Innovation Council" to hold public meetings on healthcare innovation and develop ways to improve healthcare such as "best practice recommendations." The bill then appropriates $50 annually through FY 2033-2024 for loans to select healthcare facilities, including certain hospitals and nursing homes, to implement such "innovative solutions." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only does this measure further grow the size of government and central planning, but also worsens corporate welfare and cronyism by providing taxpayer-subsidized loans. The state must pursue every available avenue to rein in its out-of-control spending, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Worsening Government Central Planning by Establishing a Crony Health Care Innovation Council to Enrich Certain Healthcare Providers.

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 states 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.

Hiking Taxpayer-Funded Public Works and Infrastructure Costs as Much as 20% Through Protectionist "U.S. Made" Iron and Steel Procurement Mandates.

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".

Year	Edu	Energy & Env	Speech	Health	Liberty	Law & Gov	Security	Reg	Tax & Fiscal	Work & Labor
2024	33.33	0	0	33.33	0	60	60	50	20	11.11
2023	0	0	0	0	33.33	28	10	31.25	33.33	37.5

ILA

Geraldine F. Thompson