Thad Altman

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.

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

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

This bill 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 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.

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

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

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

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

This bill prohibits the sale of nicotine dispensing devices, such as vaping products and e-cigarettes, that are not listed on the state directory. To be included on the directory, a product must be authorized or pending review by the FDA, or had a denial stayed by a court. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as tobacco and nicotine usage is an individual liberty which individuals who have reached the age of majority should be able to exercise without unnecessary government restriction. The bill provides an advantage to big tobacco companies by only allowing the sale of the 23 vape products authorized by the FDA, and is expected to drive countless small vape shops out of business.

Expanding Government Overreach and Infringing Individual Liberties by Prohibiting the Sale of Nicotine Dispensing Devices that Have Not Been Authorized by the FDA.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This bill 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 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 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 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 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

This bill 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.

Year	Edu	Energy & Env	Speech	Health	Liberty	Law & Gov	Security	Reg	Tax & Fiscal	Work & Labor
2024	100	75	100	33.33	100	46.15	100	40	38.46	100
2023	100	0	100	0	100	95.65	80	61.11	50	75

ILA

Thad Altman