Joe Casello

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This bill 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 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 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Strengthening Law and Order by Increasing Penalties for Retail Theft.

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

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

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

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

This 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 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 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.

Year	Edu	Energy & Env	Speech	Liberty	Law & Gov	Security	Reg	Tax & Fiscal	Work & Labor
2024	0	0	0	0	0	100	0	0	0
2023	50	0	0	20	60	20	38.89	16.67	37.5

ILA

Joe Casello