Chip LaMarca

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 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.

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 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 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.

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

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 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 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 makes a series of changes to the parole system, generally reducing penalties on offenders who violate the terms of their probation while also placing limits on jail sentences. For example, probation officers can no longer return an offender to jail if they commit a range of offenses such as failing to make restitution payments, pay court costs, associate with people engaged in criminal activity, or leave the county without permission. Instead, the officer must send the offender to an "Alternative Sanctioning Program" which may include just curfew or support group attendance. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure advances further crime by limiting the ability of probation officers 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 liberal - and even some conservative - advocacy organizations.

Increasing Crime and Weakening Public Safety through a Criminal Justice "Reform" Which Allows Criminals to Avoid Paying Restitution and Reduces Accountability within the Parole System.

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.

The Lopez amendment #239391 to the "human smuggling" section of the immigration enforcement bill. This amendment exempts a large number of individuals and entities from criminal penalties for willfully smuggling an individual unlawfully into the country, including charity and faith-based service providers, public and private commercial transportation providers, healthcare providers, and family members. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment serves as a major loophole for entities to advance illegal immigration and creates additional avenues for human trafficking. A recent investigation by the Heritage Foundation's oversight project uncovered an enormous operation being conducted by Catholic Charities to aid illegal immigrants and move migrants across the county.

Fueling Human Trafficking by Creating a Series of Loopholes Under the Immigration Enforcement Bill.

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

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 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 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 resolution repeals Section 7 of Article VI of the state Constitution, which requires public funding for campaigns for statewide offices (Governor, Lt. Governor, and Cabinet). Candidates must agree to spending limits to receive public funds. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is not the proper role of government to fund political campaigns.

Amending the State Constitution to Remove the Requirement of Public Funding for Political Campaigns.

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.

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 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 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 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 requires a two-thirds vote of a locality's governing body in order to increase the millage rate when calculating property taxes. The bill also leaves in place the existing protections against tax increases including voter approval for a rate more than 110% of the previous year's maximum rate. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps protect homeowners and businesses from even greater levels of taxation.

Protecting Homeowners and Businesses from Spiking Property Taxes by Requiring a Two-Thirds Vote to Increase the Local Property Tax Millage Rate.

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 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 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 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 tort reform bill makes several changes designed to limit lawsuit abuse by reforming the state's civil legal system. Specifically, the bill places caps on attorney's fees in certain cases, reduces the statute of limitations for negligence from 4 to 2 years, and reforms standards for comparative negligence cases Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill is designed to reduce frivolous lawsuits and lawsuit abuse, which places significant financial harm on businesses and individuals through exorbitant liability insurance premiums.

Improving the State's Business Climate by Reducing the Statute of Limitation for Negligence Claims, Capping Plaintiff's Attorney Fees and Other Legal Reforms.

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.

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 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 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 repeals a limitation placed on the size of individual wine containers. Prior law generally prohibited the sale of wine to consumers in containers larger than 1 gallon. Support is the Limited Government Position as government should not infringe individual liberties and drive up consumer costs through anti-competitive measures which limit alcohol sales.

Expanding Consumer Choice and Reducing Anti-Competitive Regulations by Repealing the Size Limit of Individual Wine Containers

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 authorizes "veterinary telemedicine", or the ability of a licensed veterinarian to connect with a pet owner over the internet or video call and prescribe medication. The bill repeals an outdated law which prevents the prescribing of medication without physically examining an animal. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps save the lives of animals and lower pet ownership costs by repealing an outdated law which is especially costly and burdensome for animal shelters and rural pet owners.

Expanding Competition and Lowering Costs for Pet Owners by Authorizing Veterinary Telemedicine

This bill makes a number of reforms to the state's Consumer Finance Act, including raising the maximum allowable interest rate on consumer loans by 6% at each tier and raising the maximum rate 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 repeals existing law which prohibited the sale of firearms and ammunition, display of firearms and ammunition in a store, and possession of a firearm in public, if a state of emergency is declared due to a riot or disorder. 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. These types of restrictions do not protect communities, rather they place individuals in defenseless positions against criminals who do not abide by the law.

Strengthening Self-Defense and Public Safety by Repealing the Ban on Selling or Possessing a Firearm in Public During a State of Emergency.

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.

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 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 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 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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, 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 contains several provisions related to buildings permits and codes. Most notably, the bill requires localities to approve or deny a building permit within 30 business days for certain structures under 7,500 sq. feet, such as family homes and accessory structures, and 60 business days if 7,500 sq. feet or more. The timeframe is also 60 business days for various other permits, such as nonresidential buildings under 25,000 sq. feet and multi-family housing with up to 50 units. 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 Shortening Timeframes for Localities to Approve or Deny Building Permits.

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 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 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 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 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.

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 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 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.

Year	Edu	Energy & Env	Speech	Health	Liberty	Law & Gov	Security	Reg	Tax & Fiscal	Work & Labor
2024	100	75	100	33.33	50	76.92	86.67	40	38.46	100
2023	100	0	100	0	100	100	76.92	61.11	50	85.71

ILA

Chip LaMarca