Peter Schorsch
Breaking overnight — “Jason Shoaf coasts to victory in House District 7 Republican primary” via Danny McAuliffe of Florida Politics — Shoaf has secured the Republican nomination and will face Democrat Ryan Terrell in the special election for HD 7. About 49 percent of the more than 9,600 GOP voters supported Shoaf. Three other candidates had competed for the Republican nod: Mike Watkins, Lynda Bell, and Virginia Fuller. Shoaf, of Port St. Joe, said he looks forward “to bringing the people of North Florida together.” He is a vice president at the St. Joe Natural Gas Company. He also is a voting member of Triumph Gulf Coast. Watkins, of Panacea, is the CEO of Big Bend Community Based Care. He took second place with about 27 percent support, or just more than 2,600 votes. The general election is June 18.
—
Also breaking overnight — Randy Maggard will face Kelly Smith in the House District 38 special election after delivering a 61 to 39 percent whooping to David McCallister in Tuesday night’s Republican primary. Maggard and Smith are running to replace Danny Burgess in the Pasco County District. Burgess left office to head the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Maggard’s victory was almost immediately clear when mail and early voting results posted shortly after polls closed with Maggard leading by more than 16 points. Just nine minutes after polls closed, Maggard’s lead grew to 20 points with more than half of all precincts reporting results. Maggard, vice president of Sonny’s Discount Appliances, ran with strong GOP backing while McCallister ran as a far-right conservative pushing President Donald Trump’s agenda.
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“Coral Gables Mayor Raúl Valdes-Fauli earns razor-thin nod for re-election” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — Incumbent Coral Gables Mayor Valdes-Fauli appears headed to another razor-thin victory over mayoral challenger and former Coral Gables Commissioner Jeannett Slesnick. Valdes-Fauli and former Coral Gables Commissioner Jeannett Slesnick also competed in 2017, with Valdes-Fauli winning by just 187 votes. With 100 percent of precincts reporting Tuesday night, his 2019 margin appears even smaller. He’s up by just 123 votes in the unofficial tally, leading Slesnick 4,320 to 4,197. The Group IV seat on the Coral Gables Commission was also up for grabs Tuesday night. That race will head to a runoff between former Commissioner Ralph Cabrera and attorney and former president of the Coral Gables Bar Association Jorge Fors, as no candidate earned 50 percent of the vote.
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“Political consultant Christian Ulvert finishes in a tie for Miami Shores Council seat” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — While Crystal Wagar is celebrating her victory as the new Mayor of Miami Shores, a pair of candidates for the Village Council remain in the dark after finishing dead even Tuesday night. Ulvert, a longtime Democratic consultant, ended with the exact same vote total as former Council member Stephen Loffredo for the fourth and final Council seat up for grabs. Both candidates finished the night with 893 votes, making it unclear who will ultimately emerge as the winner. Provisional ballots will be reviewed Friday, followed by an eventual recount. Every vote counts, indeed.
—
The Capitol has already hosted USF Day, UCF Day and FSU Day this session. On Wednesday, the University of Florida will get its time to shine.
“Gator Day” kicks off with a 7:30 a.m. breakfast. UF President Kent Fuchs will attend the Governor’s Club event before he and students start a packed day of meetings with lawmakers and Cabinet members.
The UF entourage is likely to get a warm welcome in some of their meetings — Attorney General Ashley Moody and Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried both earned three degrees from UF, and Fried also served as her class president. Senate President Bill Galvano earned his bachelor’s in Gainesville as well.
From 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., the UF Alumni Association will host a luncheon on the 22nd floor of the Capitol. Those who miss out on the breakfast and lunch events will still be able to be a part of Gator Day — the festivities conclude with a reception at the Historic Capitol hosted by the Tallahassee Florida Blue Key Alumni Association’s Leadership Circle.
Many of those leadership circle members are familiar faces at the Capitol, included on the host list are Gary Rutledge of Rutledge Eccenia, Jason Unger of GrayRobinson, Davis Bean of The Fiorentino Group, Jeff Woodburn of The Advocacy Group, Josh Aubuchon of Holland & Knight, Ron LaFace of Capitol City Consulting and Ron Sachs of Sachs Media Group.
_
TallyMadness is wrapping up.
The bout between (3) Tracy Mayernick of The Mayernick Group and (6) Rhett O’Doski of McGuireWoods Consulting ends at noon, and whoever has more votes at the buzzer will head to the locker room trophy in hand.
It’s been a long road for each of them.
Mayernick’s path includes victories over (14) Yolanda Cash Jackson of Becker & Poliakoff, (6) Teye Reeves of Smith Bryan & Myers, (7) Gus Corbella of Greenberg Traurig, and (4) Jim Daughton of Metz Husband & Daughton. She made it to the final after ending the run of fellow fan-favorite (10) Darrick McGhee of Johnson & Blanton.
O’Doski, a former TallyMadness champ, has also notched some significant wins in his campaign for a repeat.
His road so far: a Round One bout against (11) Chris Schoonover of Capital City Consulting followed by a head-to-head with (3) Ron LaFace of Capital City Consulting in the second, a W against (8) Hayden Dempsey of Greenberg Traurig in the third, and a quarterfinal victory over (9) Steve Shiver of The Advocacy Group in the Final Four.
Votes have been pouring in throughout the match, and the outcome of TallyMadness, sponsored by Table 23, could come down to who gets the biggest burst in the morning hours.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
—@AndrewScurria: Puerto Rico power utility boss Jose Ortiz admits the energy system is not prepared to withstand another hurricane. “The answer would be no. If we have another Maria again, we will have the same result.”
—@NikkiFried: With 72 million tons of fallen trees and debris left behind by #HurricaneMichael, North Florida’s risk of wildfire is ten times higher than normal. California doesn’t have this kind of wildfire threat. Thank you @RepMattGaetz for working to pass disaster relief now!
Tweet, tweet:
This is completely unacceptable! I will be inquiring immediately for answers as I always have! Thank you @noahpransky for you continuous reporting on #SunPassGate https://t.co/dRppOewDEa
— Annette Taddeo (She/Her/Ella) (@Annette_Taddeo) April 9, 2019
—@TheDaraKam: Painful to hear testimony of woman who said she was trafficked by her mother at the age of 11. “It wasn’t until I learned what human trafficking was that I realized that I was a victim.”
—@Fineout: So one group — the “Consumer Protection Coalition” (which includes the Fla. Chamber and who know who else — not sure if there are any consumer groups in it) — calls another group battling w them over AOB a “front group” for trial lawyers Astroturf wars in #FLLeg
—@VoteRandyFine: Today is a victory for those of us who have worked to fight BDS. It was sad when @Airbnb joined that cause, but their decision to capitulate under pressure validates the legislation we have passed and the commitment of our leaders. If you boycott Israel, we will boycott you.
—@AnaCeballos_: Quite the testimony from Brian Pitts just now on bill criminalizing possession of robotic childlike sex dolls. “What if I had a big stuffed bear?” he asks. “What makes you think that you are engaging with it as in sex? See what I’m saying?”
—@SkylerSwisher: Worth noting that Broward Sheriff Scott Israel lost his job over his agency’s botched response to the Parkland shooting. I asked the FBI today if anyone had been disciplined for mishandling tips. This is the response I got: “We have no comment on personnel matters.”
—@MDixon55: First time since I’ve started covering Florida Legislature, I had to take days off during session I was sure the world was going to change, and I was going to miss tons. Turns out, it’s all still here. Just as it was before.
—@NewsBySmiley: .@fred_guttenberg and @lorialhadeff tell me their families are among those suing over the 2/14/18 shooting at Stoneman Douglas. Guttenberg confirms the suit is against @browardsheriff and @browardschools
Tweet, tweet:
Doing my part to support local newspapers; admit that I still love the feel of the morning paper at my door. @TDOnline pic.twitter.com/6FNqiMNQgO
— Helen Aguirre Ferré (@helenaguirrefer) April 9, 2019
— DAYS UNTIL —
Masters Tournament begins — 1; Final season of ‘Game of Thrones’ begins — 4; Deadline for federal candidates to report what they raised during Q1 — 5; Easter — 11; Frank Artiles is eligible to register to lobby the Legislature — 12; Tampa mayoral runoff election — 13; “Avengers: Endgame” opens — 16; White House Correspondents’ Dinner — 17; 2019 Legislative Session ends (maybe) — 23; Mother’s Day — 32; Florida Chamber Florida Business Leaders’ Summit on Prosperity and Economic Opportunity — 43; Memorial Day — 47; Florida Democratic Leadership Blue conference and fundraiser — 59; Florida Chamber Learners to Earners Workforce Summit begins — 69; First Democratic presidential debates in Miami — 77; Second Democratic presidential debates in Detroit — 111; St. Petersburg primary election — 139; “Joker” opens — 177; Florida Chamber Future of Florida Forum begins — 201; Scott Maddox trial begins — 208; 2019 General Election — 209; 3rd Annual Florida Internet and Television FITCon begins — 211; Iowa Caucuses — 299; Florida’s presidential primary — 342; 2020 General Election — 573.
— TOP STORY —
“Bill to cap strong smokable cannabis heads to House floor” via Samantha Gross of the Miami Herald — The House Appropriations Committee gave the green light to a bill capping the amount of THC in marijuana flowers at 10 percent, citing research indicating that high-potency marijuana is associated with earlier onset of psychosis and the development of schizophrenia in marijuana users. Current law places a limit on the amount of THC in edible products only, which may only contain 10 mg of THC per serving and 200 mg in total. The levels are much higher than what most patients would normally consume, according to industry experts. Despite heated criticism by opponents that the bill is trying to curb the Legislature’s recent repeal of a ban on smoking medical marijuana, committee chair Rep. Ray Rodrigues said the bill is necessary because of the research around harmful effects of high-THC marijuana.
— THE ADMINISTRATION —
“Ron DeSantis announces Israel will host Florida Cabinet meeting in May” via the Miami Herald — The next Florida Cabinet meeting would take place at the embassy during a weeklong trip to Israel at the end of May. “That’ll be a historic meeting,” he said. During the trip, scheduled for May 25-31, dozens of lawmakers and guests will accompany DeSantis. He said the mission of the trip, which is being hosted by Enterprise Florida, would be to promote investment in the state, tap the insight of Israeli researchers to solve water-quality and environmental issues and strengthen the relationship between Israel and Florida. “We want to drive investment into Florida with Israeli companies,” he said. “We want to be a part of that.”
Flashback:
Scoop (only because @MDixon55 loves that word): Senior Florida Cabinet aides confirm to #FlaPol that there is an "active discussion" to hold a Cabinet meeting in Israel (most likely Jerusalem) in late May. Caveat: There are obviously significant logistical issues to such a trip.
— Peter Schorsch (@PeterSchorschFL) March 26, 2019
“DeSantis announces Collier County will receive $40.9 million for Irma recovery reimbursement” via Jake Allen of Naples Daily News — Collier County will receive another round of reimbursement, more than 18 months after Hurricane Irma devastated Southwest Florida, the governor announced Tuesday. Gov. DeSantis announced in Naples that the county would receive $40.9 million for Hurricane Irma recovery reimbursement. “This will be used to reimburse the county for removing more than 3 million cubic yards of debris,” DeSantis said during the announcement at the Collier County Government Center. “You have to do it. The debris has to be cleaned up because it’s the way to bring everyone back.
“DeSantis defends Surgeon General pick” via Jim Turner of the News Service of Florida — “My thing is, if we have a public health issue, I want somebody that is going to be able to protect the people of Florida,” DeSantis said. “If we have other challenges, like opioids, I want somebody that’s going to be able to do a good job. To me, that should be the focus of this.” DeSantis announced he was choosing physician Scott Rivkees, chairman of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Florida College of Medicine and physician-in-chief at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital, to serve as Surgeon General. Rivkees had been the subject of a sexual harassment investigation and, separately, was found by a university auditor to have not adequately filed financial-disclosure information.
“Tom Steyer: DeSantis is a ‘fake environmentalist’” via David Smiley of the Miami Herald — He doesn’t view 2018 as a wash and still sees Florida as the key to 2020. He says that he’s still concerned about Florida’s future despite the bipartisan praise being heaped on DeSantis for the priority the former congressman has given to Everglades and water-quality restoration and his unprecedented move to hire a chief state resiliency officer and chief science officer. “The idea that appointing a chief science officer is considered a step forward is ridiculous,” Steyer said, arguing that DeSantis’ reluctance to target climate emissions or tackle the root cause of climate change dramatically undercuts his efforts. “He’s a fake environmentalist.”
Tweet, tweet:
On March 21st, a company run by GOP contributor and Boca Raton doctor Steven Scott gave $50K to Gov. Ron DeSantis' political committee.
A week later, DeSantis put Scott on the Board of Governors, the board that oversees Florida's university system.
— Jason Garcia (@Jason_Garcia) April 9, 2019
— SESSION —
Amendment 4 bill clears House committee on party lines” via Scott Powers of Florida Politics — Even with an amendment that allows felons to seek and obtain waivers of financial obligations to let them vote, passionate opposition still split the House Judiciary Committee along party lines Tuesday as it approved a bill tying Amendment 4 voting rights restoration to all fees, fines, and restitution ordered by courts. The committee, chaired by state Rep. Paul Renner, a Palm Coast Republican, ran a full four hours as Renner allowed two full hours for presentations and debate on House Bill 7089 after taking care of nine other bills, including a comprehensive criminal justice reform committee bill approved by the committee.
“Restriction on petition gatherers for amendments moves forward in Senate” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Sen. David Simmons said his bill (SB 7096) aims to prevent bad actors from toying with the electoral process. This addresses multiple problems of the failure of the process,” the Longwood Republican said. “This is to assure there is no improper conduct or as little improper conduct as possible.” The legislation requires signature gatherers to be Florida residents. An amendment added in committee also says no one can gather signatures if they have been convicted in the past five years of a felony involving fraud, dishonesty or deceit. Critics say the bill seeks to further block an already obstacle-laden path for grassroots movements to affect policy in Florida.
“Senate panel backs hurricane aid” via James Call of the Tallahassee Democrat — The Infrastructure and Security Committee voted unanimously on a proposal by Tallahassee state Sen. Bill Montford to make available more than $315 million in loans and grants to residents of the 10 counties Hurricane Michael tore through six months ago Wednesday. The storm sent more than 40,000 households looking to FEMA for shelter and the wind and rain ruined billions of dollars of crops. Montford told the panel it would take several decades to restore what Michael destroyed in “just three hours.” In addition to the money, SB 1161 also creates the Hurricane Michael Recovery Task Force to recommend how the state can better prepare and respond for when a future storm hits.
Hurricane money on shaky ground — More than halfway through the 2019 Legislative Session, lawmakers still haven’t funded a $300 million loan program for counties, cities and schools hit by hurricanes last year — including those torn asunder by Hurricane Michael. As reported by Matt Dixon of POLITICO Florida, Thonotosassa Sen. Tom Lee said he would be “shocked if someone had $300 million lying around in these budget negotiations.” Montford is a bit more optimistic, saying “We are working on it. There is time.” It could be a moot point, however, if the Senate TED committee doesn’t meet again this session, which is a possibility according to Committee Chair and Sen. Travis Hutson. Another wrinkle in the post-Michael effort is whether Congress can pass a disaster relief package funding North Florida recovery.
“Senate bill on Canadian drug imports moves forward” via The Associated Press — The Senate Appropriations Health and Human Services panel approved the measure. The House has scheduled floor consideration on its version, which would expand the countries from which drugs can be imported beyond Canada. Republican Sen. Aaron Bean of Jacksonville says the Canadian drug import program, if adopted, would be submitted for approval to the federal government. If approved there will be an estimated six months to a year, and then the plan would come back to Florida lawmakers for a final decision.
PhRMA weighs in on drug importation — The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) issued a statement regarding prescription drug importation: “Efforts to make medicines more affordable for patients are extremely important, but importation schemes like the proposal being considered today are the wrong approach. This proposal jeopardizes the integrity of the closed U.S. prescription drug supply chain and the safety of Florida’s patients … The biopharmaceutical industry is committed to bringing forward solutions that address the real challenges patients are facing with affordable access to medicines, and we welcome the opportunity to work with lawmakers in Florida on solutions that will help patients better afford their medicines and keep them safe from harm. This proposal cannot guarantee either.”
“Lawmakers advance ‘do not hire’ list for ‘disqualified’ teachers” via Jeffrey Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — Both the Senate Education Appropriations and House Education committees approved related bills (SB 1444 / HB 1127) to create lists of people disqualified from working in the state’s public, private and charter schools. They also would be ineligible to serve on a charter school governing board or operate a private school. Schools would be required to deny employment to the people who appear on the disqualification lists. The bills found widespread support from the spectrum of organizations ranging from the Foundation for Florida’s Future to the Florida PTA. Both measures next head to their respective full chambers.
“Felony theft increase clears last Senate committee” via Florida Politics — The current limit is $300, set in 1986. The Senate would bump that number to $750. The Senate threshold is lower than the $1,000 threshold contemplated in the House companion (HB 589.) That bill is on the House calendar. Sen. Rob Bradley told the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Criminal and Civil Justice that the bill dealt with “several issues pertaining to our criminal justice system.” Sen. Darryl Rouson, a St. Petersburg Democrat, wondered about retroactivity regarding the felony theft condition. But Bradley said the bill did not contain that.
“Proposal to allow needle exchanges statewide heads to House floor” via Elizabeth Koh of the Tampa Bay Times — The House Health and Human Services committee voted to advance a bill that would let other counties create their own programs with the approval of their county commissions. CS/HB 171 would expand a state law that created a pilot needle exchange program in Miami-Dade in 2016 — since that pilot was established, injection drug users have been able to trade dirty needles for clean ones at no charge and get connected to wound care and drug treatment. This year’s bill, sponsored by Reps. Shevrin Jones and Rene Plasencia cleared its final House stop unanimously and could be heard on the House floor as early as next week. “This is a big win for Florida,” Jones said after the vote.
“Dead again: Red light camera ban fizzles in Senate” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Sen. Jeff Brandes’ bill that would get rid of red light cameras in the state was temporarily postponed in the Senate Infrastructure and Security Committee on Tuesday. The delay all but ensures the measure is dead — again — after several years’ worth of attempts to kill the program. Brandes voluntarily postponed the bill in the final minutes of the committee meeting due to time constraints, but not before calling red light cameras “tools of the devil to tax poor people.”
“House again approves bill cracking down on plastic surgery clinics” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — A bill to tighten restrictions on cosmetic surgery centers is on its way to its final House committee after it was approved by the Health Care Appropriations Subcommittee Tuesday morning. Rep. Anthony Rodriguez introduced the measure (HB 933). It requires clinics to register with the Department of Health (DOH). The legislation then allows for DOH to bar doctors from opening a new clinic for up to five years if their previous clinic is shut down for violations. A USA Today and Naples Daily News investigation detailed eight women who died after undergoing cosmetic procedures at South Florida facilities overseen by the same doctor over six years. That doctor, Ismael Labrador, reportedly changed the names of the centers three different times after patients died.
“Senators look to wipe away sunscreen bans” via Ana Ceballos of the News Service of Florida — A Senate panel approved a bill that would threaten local governments with hefty fines if they prohibit the sale of certain sunscreens. The bill targets sunscreens in an attempt to keep Key West from enforcing an ordinance that would ban the sale and use of sunscreens that contain oxybenzone, a chemical that a study says harms coral reefs. That ordinance is set to go into effect Jan. 1, 2021. Three powerful companies with a stake in the sale of sunscreens are registered to lobby on the bill (SB 588), sponsored by Hutson. They are Johnson & Johnson, which makes multiple sunscreens with oxybenzone, Publix and Walmart, stores that sell the product.
“Senate committee punts on straw ban pending study” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Any pre-emption of local straw bans in Florida may need to wait until next year. Amendments to the legislation on the subject underwent significant amendments in the Senate Community Affairs Committee. A bill (SB 588) by Hutson initially sought to stop local jurisdictions from prohibiting restaurants from giving out plastic straws. But that doesn’t mean the issue disappears. An amendment puts off potential pre-emption until the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability studies the actual environmental impact of straws. The amendment also calls for OPPAGA to study sunscreen impacts on coral reefs.
“Bill seeks red tide research money” via The Associated Press — The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Environment and General Government unanimously approved a bill that would provide $3 million a year for the next six years to research red tide. The research would be a partnership between the state Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Mote Marine Laboratory. Florida recently experienced one of the largest red tide blooms in its recorded history. The 15-month bloom caused respiratory irritations in people and killed sea turtles, manatees, dolphins and fish.
— MORE SESSION —
“Guess who is proposing the most amendments to the Florida Constitution this year?” via Lloyd Dunkelberger of Florida Phoenix — It’s the Florida Legislature. This year alone, lawmakers filed 28 measures — technically known as joint resolutions — seeking to make changes in the Florida Constitution. Twenty-six of those resolutions represent 13 different measures that could go before voters, including an eight-year term limit for local school board members, repealing the Florida Constitution Revision Commission, repealing Florida’s public campaign financing program, and — in a move to make it harder for citizen ballot campaigns — a new requirement that state constitutional amendments need a two-thirds statewide vote to pass. Historically, constitutional changes backed by the state Legislature have dominated the amendment process.
“Audrey Gibson takes heat as anti-Semitism vote roils Florida” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO Florida — A state Democratic leader has come under criticism after she opposed a bill targeting anti-Semitism, a move that has energized Republican efforts to woo entrenched Jewish voters in the nation’s biggest battleground state. State Sen. Gibson’s vote and her ill-received defense of it have Florida Republicans drawing comparisons to Reps. Ihlan Omar and Rashida Tlaib, congressional Democrats whose comments critical of Israel have caused a firestorm in Washington. Florida Democrats, like their national counterparts, are sweating over the politics of how to respond. Gibson, an African-American and the state Senate’s top Democrat, caused a rift even among her own party members, many of whom are Jewish, as she tried to explain her decision to vote against the measure.
“Crime victim advocacy groups praise Paul Renner” via Drew Wilson of Florida Politics — Criminal justice reform advocates have been pushing for scores of changes to Florida’s criminal code, and a bill that would grant many of them started moving in the House Tuesday. The House Judiciary Committee, chaired by Renner, has put forward JDC 19-02. “Florida can build upon our successes and reduce existing problems by focusing public policies on ending the cycle of crime and reducing recidivism,” Renner said. Among the many changes is greater leniency with those on probation, a bump in the felony theft threshold from $300 to $1,000 and improved access to support programs for crime victims. “I applaud Florida House leaders for putting forward solutions that shift Florida toward important safety solutions to improve the well-being of communities and crime survivors,” Alliance for Safety and Justice VP Robert Brooks said.
Tweet, tweet:
Hey fellas! Just circling back to note that the tax package that wasn't rolled out last week is nearly identical to the one Ways & Means takes up tomorrow. Adds exactly one provision (giving DOR more flexility analyzing tax rolls in hurricane counties) & tweaks the FTC language.
— Jason Garcia (@Jason_Garcia) April 9, 2019
“Jacksonville seeks $8 million from Legislature for downtown housing” via David Bauerlein of the Florida Times-Union — This Session, the city wants $8 million for expanding “workforce housing” in downtown. That could give a second life to the vacant three-story Community Connections building, which got its start in 1950 as a YWCA. That YWCA era is long gone, but the building could become home to downtown workers if the state Legislature agrees with the local funding request. The Senate included the $8 million in its budget, but the House did not, so the ultimate decision will come when the budget goes to conference, and a final version comes to the full Legislature for a vote, said Kurt Wenner, vice president of research at Florida TaxWatch.
“Proposal to eliminate condo arbitration program moving through Legislature” via Jeff Schweers of the Tallahassee Democrat — A proposal moving through the Legislature would eliminate an inexpensive statewide condo mediation program in favor of dramatically more costly private mediation and court jurisdiction to settle disputes between residents and their condo boards. The amendment drafted by the Real Property Section of the Florida Bar and introduced by the bill’s sponsor, Sen. Joe Gruters will be heard before the Senate Innovation, Industry and Technology Committee at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. The House version received unanimous favorable votes by two committees and is likely to be scheduled for a floor vote in the next two weeks.
— LEGISLATIVE SCHEDULE —
Assignment editors — More than 100 long-term care professionals and advocates will rally in support of continued Medicaid funding for the state’s nursing homes. That’s at 9:15 a.m., Capitol courtyard.
Assignment editors — The League of Women Voters of Florida and partner organizations will hold a news conference to oppose several bills, including measures to restrict felons from registering to vote, 11:30 a.m., Old Capitol steps, east side.
Assignment editors — Members of “Our Neighborhoods,” a coalition of Florida child safety advocates, homeowners, parents and homeowner association presidents, will hold a news conference against state pre-emption of the “rights of local governments to regulate the growing number of short-term (vacation) rentals.” That’s at 12:30 p.m., 4th-floor rotunda.
Today’s legislative committee meetings:
The Senate Military and Veterans Affairs and Space Committee will consider a resolution that calls for a continued moratorium on oil drilling in the eastern Gulf of Mexico to help prevent conflicts with military training, 10 a.m., 37 Senate Office Building.
The Senate Rules Committee will take up a proposal to abolish the Florida Constitution Revision Commission, 10 a.m., 110 Senate Office Building.
The Florida House will hold a floor session and take up numerous issues, including a battle over the controversial insurance practice known as assignment of benefits and several health care bills, including one that seeks to clear the way for importing cheaper prescription drugs from Canada, 1:30 p.m., House Chamber.
The Senate Education Committee will take up a proposal that seeks to impose eight-year term limits on county school board members, 1:30 p.m., 412 Knott Building.
The Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee will consider a bill that calls for the state to draw up a plan for a strategic fuel reserve to help deal with hurricanes and other disasters, 1:30 p.m., 301 Senate Office Building.
The Senate Innovation, Industry and Technology Committee will take up a proposal that would give the state regulatory authority over vacation rental properties, pre-empting local regulation, 1:30 p.m., 110 Senate Office Building.
The Florida Senate is scheduled to hold a floor session and take up several measures, including one that would save VISIT FLORIDA, the state’s public-private tourism marketing agency, from repeal and disbanding Oct. 1, 4 p.m., Senate Chamber.
And when you’re done with work, there’s this:
— NOLES RUN THIS TOWN —
It was garnet and gold everywhere Tuesday during FSU Day at The Capitol.
The annual event bridges lawmakers with university stakeholders and offers some college pep in Tallahassee as lawmakers hit the back-end the Legislative Session — during which, among other things, they’ll finalize a budget that includes university funding for a state system recently ranked the best in the nation.
FSU President John Thrasher spoke at a rally that brought out too many elected alums to count — from Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis to legislators like Sen. Joe Gruters and Sen. Bill Montford. Thrasher’s tenure has overlapped with a moonshot rise in public university rankings, along with big-ticket donations to help the school branch out.
‘Momentum’: “We are riding a wave of momentum, and we’re not slowing down,” Thrasher said. “We certainly want to thank our legislators for the incredible financial commitment that they’ve made that has contributed so much to our success and is providing the necessary support to our faculty and our students.”
New legacy: The FSU women’s soccer and softball programs took home national trophies last year. Both were on hand at the rally, during which members of the women’s soccer team were given rings. “It fits well,” remarked Mark Krikorian, who coaches the program.
Something to watch: Rep. Mel Ponder and Sen. Gary Farmer have introduced resolutions that would, respectively, honor the softball and soccer programs.
—“Florida State University spotlights championship athletics, achievements during its day at the Capitol” via Byron Dobson for the Tallahassee Democrat
— GOVERNORS CLUB MENU —
Chicken tortilla soup; mixed garden salad with dressings; yucca salad; jalapeño corn salad; deli board, lettuce, tomatoes, cheeses and breads; chicken enchiladas; beef fajitas with all the fixings; mojo pork; steamed rice; pinto beans; sweet plant pains; caramel flan for dessert.
— STATEWIDE —
“Small businesses high on economy, NFIB says” via Florida Politics — A new report from the National Federation of Independent Business shows small-business owners are optimistic the economy will keep chugging along. The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index ratcheted up one-tenth of a point to 101.8. Among the components to see a drop was the uncertainty index which fell six points to 79, a level NFIB said is normal compared to recent years. “Small business owners continue to create jobs, expand their operations, and are enjoying strong sales,” said NFIB President and CEO Juanita Duggan. NFIB Florida head Bill Herrle said Florida business owners are “particularly enthusiastic as they watch Gov. Ron DeSantis take the reins. … Florida continues to outpace the nation in job growth, labor force growth, and record low unemployment rates, and small business owners are excited about what the future holds.”
“ACLU cautions immigrants, people of color about visiting Florida” via Jessica Lipscomb of the Miami New Times — The travel advisory comes in response to two “anti-sanctuary” bills (SB 168 and HB 527) currently moving through the state Legislature. “The alert comes amid these bills’ steady progress in the Florida State legislature and cautions both Florida travelers and residents, especially black, brown, and Latinx communities, of the increased likelihood of racial profiling, unjust detention, and possible deportation if these anti-immigrant bills pass,” the ACLU of Florida stated in a news release. The travel warning specifically name-checks Miami, an unofficial sanctuary city until January 2017, when Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez signaled that the county would comply with federal immigration laws. Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Key West are also named in the advisory.
“Florida tax dollars going to company with possible connection to sex trafficking” via Jenna Bourne of Action News Jax — “It kind of alarms me a little bit,” said Alyssa Beck, who escaped from sex trafficking when she was 15. She said many of those survivors were trafficked using the website Backpage.com. The feds seized the website last year as part of an investigation into sex trafficking. Fifty sex trafficking
“How do Florida’s standards stack up? The state wants your input.” via Jeffrey Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — The Florida Department of Education has launched a new website aimed at gathering more detailed public views about the standards DeSantis has demanded be revised. The site, which requires registration, details language arts and math standards by grade level. For each, it asks respondents whether they would like to eliminate, revise, move or leave unchanged the language. It leaves space for added comments, as well. The department has offered on its overview page spreadsheets comparing Florida’s expectations to those in California, Indiana and Massachusetts. Indiana has often been compared to Florida for its education policies, while Massachusetts is frequently referred to as having among the best and most successful education systems.
CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis sends team to Assist with Louisiana church fire investigations — Patronis announced the activation of a Strike Team sent to Louisiana to assist in the investigation of three church fires that occurred over 10 days. The team is comprised of seven investigators from Patronis’ Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations and includes an experienced specialist in photo enhancement. “With three church fires in only 10 days in St. Landry Parish, my office offered Louisiana State Fire Marshal Butch Browning assistance to investigate this alarming series of potential crimes,” Patronis said in a statement. “My skilled fire investigators have been deployed to aid our neighbors in Louisiana with this disturbing string of church fires. We are determined to help find answers.”
“Canadian company that owns Ruskin cannabis farm acquired for $41.2 million” via Crystal Owens of the Tampa Bay Business Journal — The July 2018 agreement between SOL Global Investments Corp. and CannCure Investments, a privately-held Ontario company that owns 3 Boys Farms, was partially satisfied with the release of 7.3 million common shares of SOL Global’s stock at $4 per share to CannCure on a proportional basis. The terms of the acquisition say that if SOL Global has a binding agreement to resell 3 Boys Farms within a year of the April 8 closing date, SOL Global and CannCure will also earn sale proceed reimbursements that each invested in 3 Boys Farms. It also stipulates that any leftover reimbursements would be split with 48 percent going to SOL Global and 58 percent to CannCure.
— SEWER CRISIS —
Storms and faulty equipment throughout the state result in the millions of gallons of raw and partially-treated sewage dumped into Florida waterways, which have become “emblematic of failing wastewater systems,” report GateHouse Media’s Josh Salmon, Jennifer Borresen, Daphne Chen and Dak Le.
“During the past decade, deteriorating sewers have released 1.6 billion gallons of wastewater, much of it polluting the state’s estuaries and oceans,” they write, with more than 370 million gallons of that “completely untreated.”
Much of this sewage is feeding the blue-green algae blooms that have wreaked havoc on Florida estuaries and intensified the red tide problem in the Gulf of Mexico.
— The data show the top because of spills was breakage, usually from tree root intrusion made worse by the deterioration of aging pipelines, which can be up to 80 years old and some communities.
— Making things worse were households rinsing bacon grease and other fats and flushing baby wipes.
— While local officials recognize the problem, many of them are hampered for a fix, forced to make patchwork repairs instead of spending hundreds of billions of dollars needed for infrastructure.
— Intensifying the problem is Florida itself, a state surrounded by saltwater.
Broken down by region, nearly 56 percent of the spills were in the Southwest district, which includes Pinellas, Hillsborough, Polk, Pasco, Hernando, Citrus, Manatee and Hardee counties. The Tampa Bay-area is the hardest hit.
— THE TRAIL —
“David Straz says he won’t accept any donation larger than $500 for his mayoral campaign. But he has — at least 12 times” via Charlie Frago of the Tampa Bay Times — An analysis of Straz‘s campaign contributions shows at least 12 individuals and entities have given more than $500 to the campaign, for a total of $11,950. Many of the contributors broke up their donations into smaller increments, often on the same day. A Robert Newman from the same address as of Tampa’s J.C. Newman Cigar Company gave the campaign a $200 check and an $800 in-kind contribution in July and September. Newman is one of the owners. Newman’s nephew Drew said his uncle wasn’t aware of Straz’s campaign promise and no one from the campaign has contacted them to refund or reallocate their money.
“Travis Hutson committees net $155K in March fundraising” via AG Gancarski of Florida Politics — Hutson, locked in what he says is a “cordial” race against Sen. Kathleen Passidomo for the Senate presidency, raised over $155,000 between his two political committees on Mar. 4. Hutson’s Sunshine State Conservatives committee raised nearly $135,000, giving it roughly $380,000 on hand. The rest of the money was brought in via his First Coast Business Foundation, which now has well over $450,000 on hand. (Its big haul was $440,000 in February).
“Angie Chirino joins race to replace Anitere Flores in SD 39” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — Chirino, a singer and former congressional candidate, is the first Republican to join the 2020 contest for Senate District 39. Sen. Anitere Flores, who represents the district, is term-limited in 2020. “I know this community extremely well,” Chirino said in a statement launching her campaign. “District 39 is full of extraordinary people, and my diverse professional background has thoroughly prepared me to be a strong voice for all residents of our community.” Chirino isn’t new to politics, having angled in 2018 to replace former U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. She was defeated in a crowded Republican primary by Maria Elvira Salazar, who went on to lose to Democrat Donna Shalala in November.
Happening today — State political candidates, committees and parties face a deadline for filing reports showing finance activity through March 31.
— LOCAL —
“Miami developer Robert Zangrillo hit with more charges in college bribery scandal” via Brittany Shammas of the Miami New Times — Zangrillo, one of the leading investors behind a controversial luxury development in Little Haiti, was hit today with new charges in the college admissions cheating scandal. In addition to being charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud and honest-services mail fraud, he has now been indicted of conspiracy to commit fraud and money laundering. The CEO of Dragon Global is among 16 parents — including Full House’s Lori Loughlin and her husband, fashion designer Mossimo Giannulli — facing additional charges in the massive federal case. The extra charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, according to prosecutors.
“Parkland school shooter Nikolas Cruz in jailhouse letters: ‘Liberals are destroying America’” via Bob Norman of the Miami New Times — In a batch of jailhouse letters, Cruz expounds more on politics than we’ve seen to date — and the letters show the unhinged killer remains deeply drawn to Trump’s divisive and negative political messaging, which takes aim at immigrants, liberals, and the media. Cruz seems to have taken especially seriously Trump’s unfounded allegations that illegal immigrants threaten American society and are more prone than others to crime. “I feel like there is a reason why we’re trying to stop immigrants,” Cruz writes. “They attack people, destroy property and spread disease. It’s a big issue. I’m waiting for the moment when society collapses because of one of these issues.”
“Orlando Apollos, AAF owe UCF more than $1 million — on paper” via Mike Bianchi of the Orlando Sentinel — Most of that reported figure is based on future rent payments, according to sources close to UCF. Still, the Knights aren’t happy about being left with about $100,000 in unpaid out-of-pocket expenses to police and other vendors for the three home games the Apollos played at UCF’s Spectrum Stadium before the league decided last week to close up shop only eight games into its inaugural season. The Alliance signed a three-year lease for the Apollos to play a total of 15 home games at Spectrum Stadium for $75,000 per game.
What Jimmy Patronis is reading — “K-9 Titan ‘doing great’ weeks after being shot” via Chelsea Tatham of WTSP — The department tweeted that Titan would love to be out working again, but he has a splint on his leg and is under “strict orders” for cage rest. Luckily, the handsome pup is getting “so much attention” from police staff. Titan was shot while his handler and Pinellas County Sheriff’s deputies were responding to a traffic stop. Titan was shot when he pursued a suspect who had ran away from an officer. Police said Titan’s injuries included a bone fracture and other damage that could prove difficult to recover from fully. A spokesperson said Titan is on the mend and has made significant progress, but his future as a police dog is still uncertain.
— D.C. MATTERS —
“At Trump’s Florida resort empire, a quiet effort to eliminate an undocumented workforce” via Miriam Jordan, Annie Correal and Patricia Mazzei of The New York Times — In the case of the Trump Organization, the hiring of some immigrant labor may be about to change: Facing growing questions about its employment of undocumented workers, the company has quietly begun to take steps to eliminate any remaining undocumented workers from its labor pool in South Florida. In March, seven veteran maintenance workers at Trump National Jupiter were informed that the workforce was being reorganized. Workers had until March 22 to provide proof that they were legally eligible to work in the United States, they were told. One by one, the workers — from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico — began to depart. Only one of the seven was a legal resident.
“Disaster aid talks collapse as Congress heads for recess” via Caitlin Emma and Marianne Levine of POLITICO — Senate negotiations over a disaster relief package have broken down, all but ensuring that Puerto Rico and states stricken by storms, wildfires and flooding will be left waiting for emergency aid until after Congress returns from a two-week recess. Democrats have rejected the latest offer made by Republican appropriators over funding for Puerto Rico … It’s unclear what Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell will decide to do now with the stalled bill
“If David Bernhardt becomes Interior secretary, Florida’s coastline, economy will be in trouble” via Malibu Flores for the Miami Herald — The Trump administration’s nomination of Bernhardt, known for his association with the oil and gas industry, for secretary of the Interior raises serious questions about our government’s commitment to protecting our people, coastline, economy and marine life. Bernhardt’s record also raises serious questions about his objectivity in matters affecting our coasts. Why did the Department rush to approve more than 70 permits for offshore drilling during the government shutdown, including 53 for companies that sit on the board of one of his former clients? The National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA), one of the largest offshore drilling industry organizations in the country, once represented by Bernhardt in court, when Interior was short-staffed, and serious oversight likely couldn’t be conducted.
“Rick Scott wants answers from FBI on disciplinary actions taken after Parkland school shooting” via Skyler Swisher of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — More than a year after the massacre, the FBI still hasn’t provided a full accounting. Scott sent a letter this week to FBI Director Christopher Wray requesting an update on agency changes since the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. “I am sure that you agree these failures are inexcusable, and so I request an update on the steps you have taken to hold accountable those responsible for these grave lapses in your agency’s core investigative function,” Scott wrote.
“Charlie Crist goes after Attorney General William Barr” via Diane Rado of Florida Phoenix — Crist, a member of a U.S. House Appropriations Committee where Barr
— 2020 —
“Oil drilling plan threatens Trump’s 2020 chances in Florida” via Zack Colman and Ben Lefebvre of POLITICO — The Trump administration is considering auctioning off Florida’s coastal waters for oil and gas drilling – and Republicans are warning it could cost the president dearly in Florida in the 2020 election.
“LGBT donors helping Pete Buttigieg defy 2020 expectations” via Sara Burnett of The Washington Post — Financial support from the LGBT community has helped Buttigieg defy expectations by raking in more than $7 million in just over two months. The money has come from grassroots supporters and big-dollar Hollywood donors who hope Buttigieg will make history — or at least the summer debate stage. And the early haul shows no sign of slowing. Victory Fund, which invested $2 million in LGBT candidates in 2018, expects to endorse Buttigieg shortly after he formally joins the race, President and CEO Annise Parker said. The board that makes endorsements — made up of 100 “bundlers,” or people who commit to raising $5,000 annually for candidates — has been “champing at the bit” to endorse him, she said.
“The Democratic electorate on Twitter is not the actual Democratic electorate” via Nate Cohn and Kevin Quealy of The New York Times — The views of Democrats on social media often bear little resemblance to those of the wider Democratic electorate. The outspoken group of Democratic-leaning voters on social media is outnumbered, roughly 2 to 1, by the more moderate, more diverse and less educated group of Democrats who typically don’t post political content online, according to data from the Hidden Tribes Project. This latter group has the numbers to decide the Democratic presidential nomination in favor of a relatively moderate establishment favorite, as it has often done in the past. It helps explain why recent polls show that a majority of Democrats would rather see the party become more moderate than move leftward.
— OPINIONS —
“Sanctuary cities bill all about politics, not public safety” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — The real problem is rooted in our nation’s political divide. For while most people agree our immigration system is broken — that immigrants shouldn’t enter our country illegally, yet our economy needs immigrants to grow — Washington remains unwilling to compromise on a comprehensive fix. Absent that, Florida’s Republican-controlled Legislature is advancing a hot-button measure politically popular with its base, but that could breed mistrust of law enforcement among millions of immigrants. Now think about it. Do we really want police officers checking the immigration status of everyone they encounter? Do we really want a society where people have to carry papers to prove they’re Americans?
“Joe Henderson: Anti-vaccination
“Brian Kyuhoon No, Tim Alborg: Cities know their streets and sidewalks best” via Florida Politics — Micromobility isn’t a new buzzword in Florida. Scooters have been widely lauded as a new transportation option that both reduce dependency on cars and lets riders catch some rays while in transit. HB 453, sponsored by state Rep. Jackie Toledo, intends to give control of local sidewalks to the state. Creating statewide regulations for ride-sharing makes some sense, as cars are usually used to travel distances that cross multiple municipal borders. But electric scooter (and bike) operators are different. The vast majority of scooter trips are shorter than 2 miles — traveling only within a city’s boundaries. It’s really quite simple: one size does not fit all. The regulation of municipal spaces such as sidewalks is best left to those that walk them every day. That’s why we’ll continue to support smart regulations on the local level, and it’s why we’ll continue to oppose HB 453.
— MOVEMENTS —
Personnel note — Veterans Florida welcomes new board members — Galvano appointed Lynda L. Weatherman and Angela Drzewiecki, “highly successful business women with experience in government and military affairs,” a statement said. Galvano also reappointed Tom Rice to the Board of Directors. Jim Sampey, Chair of the Board of Veterans Florida, said the organization “will benefit from their unique perspectives and enthusiasm they bring to the nation’s most veteran-friendly state.” Weatherman is President and CEO of the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast. Drzewiecki, a consultant at Peebles, Smith & Matthews, is the widow of Staff Sgt. Carl Enis, who was killed in action in Iraq.
“The Players taps former Jacksonville Mayor aide” via the Florida Times-Union — Marsha Oliver, the former director of public affairs for Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry, has been hired as the senior director of community outreach for The Players Championship. Oliver, a Jacksonville native who also served as assistant superintendent of communications for Duval County Public Schools, was a member of Curry’s senior staff since 2015. She replaces Cathie Hurlburt, who retired after 28 years with the PGA Tour. Oliver will oversee The Players’ charitable efforts and military-related activities.
New and renewed lobbying registrations:
Mike Corcoran, Jeff Johnston, Anita Berry, Matt Blair, Amanda Stewart, Corcoran & Johnston: Vistra
Erin Cusick, Michael Cusick and Associates: National Association of Social Workers Florida Chapter
Tyler Gilbert, DDC Public Affairs: Society of Neurointerventional Surgery
Eduardo Gonzalez, Sun City Strategies: City of West Miami
Kirk Hall: The Arc of Florida
Paul Hawkes: UF Health Jacksonville
George Levesque, GrayRobinson: Laboratory Corporation of America, Lockheed Martin Corporation
Foyt Ralston, Capitol Advocates: City of Anna Maria
— SUNSHINE SPORTS —
Lord Stanley needs a tan — The Tampa Bay Lightning was a runaway freight train during the just-concluded regular National Hockey League season. The Bolts had 62 wins, tied for the most in NHL history. That’s 12 wins and 21 points more than the next-closest team, which earned the team the President’s Trophy and made them favorites to win the Stanley Cup. But as the Lightning open the playoffs tonight in Tampa against Columbus, history tells them to be wary.
Since 2005-06 only two of 13 Presidents’ winners took the Cup. Four of those teams lost in the first round of the playoffs. The matchup with Columbus looks favorable, though. Tampa Bay beat the Blue Jackets in all three meetings this season, outscoring them 17-3. Columbus is coached by John Tortorella, who led the Bolts to their only Cup championship 15 years ago.
The Bolts have home-ice advantage throughout the playoffs. The puck drops at 7 p.m.
“Game in Hawaii highlights NFL preseason schedule” via The Associated Press — The first NFL exhibition game in Hawaii in 43 years highlights the league’s preseason schedule. Dallas will play the Los Angeles Rams at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu on Aug. 17. The last preseason match there featured the 49ers and Chargers in 1976. The Raiders, who are set to move to Las Vegas in 2020, have two preseason home games, though the one against Green Bay in Week 3 has an “undetermined site.” The Oakland Athletics are scheduled to play that weekend at the stadium the teams share. Atlanta and Denver face off in the Hall of Fame game in Canton, Ohio, on Aug. 1 to open the preseason.
Must-read — This isn’t Florida related, but we wanted to flag this: NBA player Kyle Korver of the Utah Jazz writes poignantly about his perspective as a white man on the struggle with racism and white privilege in a must-read article for The Players’ Tribune. “What I’m realizing is, no matter how passionately I commit to being an ally, and no matter how unwavering my support is for NBA and WNBA players of color … I’m still in this conversation from the privileged perspective of opting into it,” writes Korver. “Which of course means that on the flip side, I could just as easily opt out of it. Every day, I’m given that choice — I’m granted that privilege — based on the color of my skin.” Be sure to read ‘Privileged’ here.
— ALOE —
“30 million passengers, 18 new ships this year. Will cruising continue to grow?” via Taylor Dolven of the Miami Herald — In 2018, the number of global cruise passengers grew almost 7 percent to 28.5 million, reported the Cruise Lines Industry Association. And, “there’s nothing I see that suggests any kind of slowdown is on the horizon,” said Frank Del Rio, chief executive of Norwegian Cruise Holdings. With 18 new ships due for launch this year, the industry is set to host 30 million passengers in 2019. That translates to 1.1 billion workers worldwide and a total economic impact of $134 billion. Fueling that growth is both millennials and retirees, said the executives, and an industry known for innovation. “We’re constantly looking for what’s next,” said Richard Fain, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
“Black bear can now be seen at Melbourne’s Brevard Zoo” via FLORIDA TODAY — Located in the Wild Florida section of the zoo, this 2-year-old female had been brought in from Tallahassee after the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission responded to a report of a woman providing dog food and water to a bear. According to the Brevard Zoo, that could have resulted in a tragic incident as the bear did not know how to care for herself without interacting with humans. The 5,000-square-foot space for her at the zoo features pools, trees, boulders and other elements that encourage natural behavior.
— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —
Celebrating today is one of North Florida’s best people, Jeremy Branch, as well as good guy Jose Gonzalez, the director of government and industry relations at Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. On the local front, happy birthday to Housh Ghovaee and Chris Krampert.
—
Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Jim Rosica, Dan McAuliffe, and Drew Wilson.
