Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 3.7.24

Good Thursday morning.

I’m feeling a little spicy this morning, so …

While Florida’s residents are already grappling with the tangible economic costs of a changing climate, the Legislature’s erasure of the term is tone-deaf. From soaring electric bills to the threat of encroaching sea levels on coastal real estate — no matter what it’s called it is impossible to ignore.

Floridians do not have the option to whisk away what they do not want to be reminded of.

A new tool called Florida’s Climate Future was developed to clarify the economic costs of climate change for residents across the Sunshine State today and in the near-term. This platform synthesizes publicly available data into interactive maps, pinpointing the risks of energy insecurity, extreme weather, and unbearable heat for each county across Florida.

“Climate risk is not one size fits all in Florida. This effort shares localized and layered information on how the rising costs of climate in our state impact your family,” said Dawn Shirreffs, Florida Director of the Environmental Defense Fund.

The maps reveal deep energy insecurity in Florida’s Panhandle, scalding 123-degree temperatures in Collier County, and grave flooding risk in St. Johns and Martin counties. Florida must let data, not partisan politics, guide decisions and policies. This tool is crucial for informing decisions and spurring proactive responses as Florida navigates its rapidly changing climate realities.

“Our hope is that by compiling all the data that already existed, Floridians and our elected officials will see we have to focus on mitigation efforts to reduce taxpayer risk and substantial financial loss due to climate change,” said Thais Lopez Vogel, co-founder and trustee of the VoLo Foundation.

___

In the waning days of the ’24 Session, lawmakers passed an industry-killing hemp bill after actively ignoring input from the farmers and retailers they are attempting to regulate out of existence.

Producing hemp with zero THC content is a biological impossibility, and even though the proposed restrictions were relaxed from 2 mg per serving and 10 mg per container to a more permissive 5 mg/50 mg, there are still plenty of causes for concern and a lot of reasons Gov. Ron DeSantis should veto the legislation when it hits his desk.

To be clear, those levels of THC are far below what’s found in cannabis and do not give users a “high” and, unlike cannabis, hemp is legal at the federal level and growers must comply with THC limits set by the USDA. Still, that spurious argument is fueling the potential destruction of a $10 billion industry.

Behind that dollar amount are real people who will lose their livelihoods. And it’s naive to think the customers who purchase these currently legal products won’t attempt to find them elsewhere — just look at California, which made the same mistake that Florida lawmakers appear intent on repeating.

There were significant repercussions: Chinese imports filled the void, and a thriving black market sprung up that exported billions of dollars in illegal marijuana across the United States. That means American small businesses are forced to compete with the growing influence of Chinese imports in the marijuana industry.

Simply put, the $10 billion won’t go poof. It would simply transfer to out-of-state entities and, because of China’s increased involvement in this industry, eventually to a new type of cartel.

___

Good news about a great person — North Highland is bringing on Monesia “Mone” Taylor Brown as its new vice president of Government Relations.

Based in the firm’s Tallahassee office, Brown will lead its government relations strategy and drive growth for its public sector industry.

She brings more than 20 years of experience in state and local government public affairs strategy, emergency disaster response and recovery, corporate community investment, and managing corporate initiatives in Florida by working with the state government on policy issues and local governments on permitting and real estate citing projects.

Brown most recently worked as the Director of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Walmart. She previously worked as an attorney and policy/government consultant focusing on legislative and executive branch matters including economic development, state procurement and education.

Brown has held several positions in state government, including General Counsel to the Department of Management Services, Director of Legislative Affairs, and Chief Cabinet Aide to the Attorney General. She was also the Director of the Agency for Workforce Innovation, Florida’s labor agency.

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@LizMair: Congratulations, America. You did it. You gave us the stupidest presidential race imaginable.

—@RonFilipkowsk: I don’t know, I’m not the political genius that (Donald) Trump is. But I’m thinking that when Trump keeps saying he wants to “get rid” of moderate Republicans from the party that might not be the smartest plan. But what do I know?

—@JimmyPatronis: No one ever “backed” or supported (Nikki) Haley. She was a leftover remnant of an old party that’s dead. Haley, (Mitt) Romney, and (Liz) Cheney should all build a house in Vermont, and bond over their TDS. The rest of us will try to make the world better for our kids.

—@WiltonSimpson: An absolute CHAMPION for agriculture. Thank you, Representative (Danny) Alvarez! Enjoy a nice steak dinner tonight.

Tweet, tweet:

 

The things you miss when you aren’t down on the 4th floor. The portrait of Queen Passidomo being displayed outside Senate gallery pic.twitter.com/TjViaYU7rE

— Gary Fineout (@fineout) March 6, 2024

—@Paul_Renner: The difference Melony Bell has made for Floridians with diabetes is something she should be incredibly proud of. She came to the House with experience serving at the local level & has represented HD 49 well. Melony, thank you for your service, & may God bless you & your family.

Tweet, tweet:

 

How cool is this… Manatee-themed home for sale in Florida. (Comes with REAL MANATEES!!!) pic.twitter.com/vu3iEuECK1

— Christina Pushaw 🐊 🇺🇸 (@ChristinaPushaw) March 6, 2024

— DAYS UNTIL —

Last day of Regular Session, if Legislature completes work in 60 days — 1; 2024 Oscars — 3; Georgia Democratic Primary — 6; Arizona/Florida/Illinois/Kansas/Ohio Primaries — 13; James Madison Institute’s ‘2024 Naples Dinner’ with keynote speaker Laura Ingraham — 14; ‘3 Body Problem’ premieres on Netflix — 14; Trump’s New York hush money trial begins — 18; The Supreme Court will hear arguments in the mifepristone/abortion pill case — 19; Major League Baseball’s (MLB) 2024 season — 21; March Madness Final Four (women’s) begins — 28; March Madness Final Four (men’s) — 31; Florida TaxWatch’s Spring Meeting — 35; The Masters begin — 36; Kentucky Derby — 59; 2024 Leadership Conference on Safety, Health & Sustainability — 64; ‘Bridgerton’ new season (part one) premieres on Netflix — 71; French Open begins — 73; ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ premieres — 76; Dave Matthews Band 2024 Summer Tour begins in Tampa — 76; Monaco Grand Prix — 80; the 2024 World Cup begins — 96; ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ premieres — 114; Republican National Convention begins — 130; the 2024 World Cup ends — 134; 2024 MLS All-Star Game — 139; Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games on NBC/Peacock — 141; ‘Alien: Romulus’ premieres — 160; Democratic National Convention begins — 166; Georgia Tech to face Florida State in 2024 opener in Dublin — 170; Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour stops in Miami — 225; 2024 Florida Chamber Annual Meeting & Future of Florida Forum — 228; 2024 Presidential Election — 243; Las Vegas Grand Prix — 256; MLS Cup 2024 — 271; ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ premieres — 344; ‘Moana’ premieres — 474; ‘Thunderbolts’ premieres — 505; ‘Fantastic Four’ reboot premieres — 505; ‘Blade’ reboot premieres — 610; ‘Avatar 3’ premieres — 652; ‘Avengers: The Kang Dynasty’ premieres — 789; Untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 805; Another untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 1,016; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 1,156; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 2,115; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2,837.

— TOP STORY —

“State Attorney’s Office declines to charge Christian Ziegler with video voyeurism” via Christian Casale of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Three assistants in State Attorney Ed Brodsky’s office explained the decision in a memo released Wednesday morning.

The memo capped a protected investigation launched by the Sarasota Police Department last Fall that engulfed Ziegler and his wife Bridget, a conservative activist and member of the Sarasota County School Board, in a sex scandal that drew national attention, costing Christian Ziegler his position as state GOP Chair and has led to repeated calls for Bridget Ziegler to resign from the School Board.

“Ziegler is relieved to be completely cleared of the false allegations and any criminal wrongdoing. We cooperated at every stage of the investigation and as difficult as it was, we remained quiet out of respect for the investigation,” Derek Byrd, Ziegler’s defense attorney, said in an emailed statement. “On Day One, we said that Ziegler was completely innocent. We asked everyone not to rush to judgment and reminded everyone to presume Ziegler innocent — as the Constitution instructs. Unfortunately, many did not award that courtesy to Ziegler, damaging his family, career, and reputation throughout this process.”

Prosecutors said they were declining to pursue the video voyeurism charge because they found the alleged victim’s statements inconsistent.

“The Victim’s expressed inability to recall whether she consented to recording the sexual activity, along with her inconsistencies pertaining to key details of the event, leave the State unable to demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that the video in question was filmed without her knowledge or consent,” the memo concluded.

—“Ed Brodsky says he’s done investigating Ziegler, won’t investigate accuser” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics

— LEGISLATIVE —

“Florida Republicans bash Washington. But they sure like its cash.” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — Lawmakers are poised this week to approve a new $117.4 billion spending plan for the coming year that includes several key provisions designed to keep money that Washington delivered to Florida as part of the American Rescue Plan — the coronavirus relief plan Congress passed shortly after President Joe Biden was sworn into office three years ago. Legislators have come up with a plan to shift more than $750 million from programs and projects that were coming up against federal spending deadlines. Lawmakers will redirect the money where they can spend it more quickly, including using $200 million to shore up a program used to pay for health insurance coverage for state workers. House Speaker Paul Renner was unapologetic about Florida taking extra steps to lock in the federal cash. “If we send it back it will be spent on something that is useless and wasteful,” Renner said. “And at least we know here between the House and Senate we’re going to spend money on things that actually matter.”

“After Ron DeSantis veto, Legislature OKs modified social media restrictions for minors” via Douglas Soule of The Florida Times-Union — The Florida House has again passed sweeping social media restrictions for minors, teeing them up for DeSantis’ consideration. This time, the Governor is expected to OK them. DeSantis vetoed the original bill (HB 1) last Friday, which would have banned “addictive” social media platforms for minors younger than 16 years old. But that was after he and Renner had already negotiated on a new version (HB 3). That new bill passed with a bipartisan 30-5 vote in the Senate on Monday. It also got bipartisan support in the House Wednesday, passing 109-4. It keeps the minor ban, at least for those younger than 14, with an exception for 14- and 15-year-olds who get a parent’s permission.

“Lawmakers shy from voucher spending controls after parents complain” via Jeffrey S. Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — Florida Senators on Wednesday killed a proposal to restrict how families can spend their state-funded education vouchers, in the face of heavy pushback from parents who opposed the changes. Nine days earlier, Senators defended the plan to limit purchases to items directly related to core academic courses. They cited the need for strong controls before abuse by “bad actors” becomes rampant, and said the state needed to balance family schooling choices with good fiscal stewardship. Those comments echoed views aired by House leaders who brought forth the recommendation in January. But when the bill came up for discussion in Committees, parents who homeschool their children and receive vouchers came forth to oppose the measure. They said efforts to limit the use of the money to materials directly connected to the basics would hinder their ability to provide arts, music and physical education for their children.

“Florida passes follow-up to ‘paycheck protection’ union reforms” via Andrew Atterbury of POLITICO Florida — The GOP-dominated Florida House passed legislation Wednesday revising the state’s organized labor rules on the heels of a controversial 2023 law that added new restrictions and costs for many worker unions. Republicans who supported the proposal, which has now cleared the full Legislature and is heading to DeSantis, claim it’s needed to ensure workers aren’t “being coerced to join unions” and to enhance financial transparency. Yet Democrats who opposed the measure argue it amounts to “union busting.” “They need protections because we see IRS agents and FBI agents raiding union offices,” Rep. Dean Black, the Jacksonville Republican carrying the legislation, said on the floor Tuesday during an initial hearing. “We don’t need corrupt union bosses overseeing our employees.”

“Legislature approves ‘Condo 3.0’ bill to boost Board accountability, building safety” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Malfeasant condo Board members and associations that for years have skirted Florida law through loopholes in state statutes may soon face a reckoning due to a reform package now bound for DeSantis’ desk. Lawmakers unanimously passed HB 1021, which will overhaul state laws governing condo oversight and management by holding condo buildings and their Boards more accountable for their maintenance, repairs, reserves and record keeping. Sen. Jennifer Bradley, who carried the legislation with Rep. Vicki Lopez, gave a brief overview of the measure’s provisions.

“Legislature passes bill easing demolition, replacement of old buildings with bigger structures” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A bill that will make it easier for developers to raze coastal and sometimes historic buildings and replace them with far larger structures is soon heading to DeSantis’ desk. The bill (SB 1526) cleared its last legislative hurdle after a final plea from St. Petersburg Democratic Rep. Lindsay Cross, who outlined the inadvertent but negative impacts it could have on Florida’s oceanside communities. Her argument proved insufficient, however, as House members voted 86-29 for the measure. Five Republicans — Thad Altman, Fabián Basabe, Linda Chaney, Patt Maney and Cyndi Stevenson — joined their Democratic colleagues in opposition.

“House passes, changes bill protecting first responders from harassment and obstruction” via Owen Girard of Florida’s Voice — The Florida House of Representatives passed updated legislation on Wednesday protecting first responders from being harassed or obstructing their work as officers of the law. Sen. Bryan Avila sponsored the bill, SB 184, requiring bystanders to provide first responders an ample amount of space when they are addressing an emergency. The House approved the bill with a vote of 85-27. It will head back to the Senate for a final vote. The bill makes it a first-degree misdemeanor for any bystander, after receiving a warning, to not provide at least 14 feet of space between themselves and the first responders. Rep. Alex Rizo introduced an amendment further defining terms such as “first responder” and “harass.”

“Legislature unanimously expands home-hardening grant program with Surfside-inspired condo pilot” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A state grant program that helps Florida homeowners strengthen their properties against seasonal storms will soon allow condo owners to tap into its funds. Lawmakers have approved legislation (HB 1029) to create the My Safe Florida Condominium Program through which condo associations within 15 miles of the shoreline can access hurricane mitigation inspections and guidance for roof and entryway improvements. The pilot program, which begins July 1, is an offshoot of My Safe Florida Home, a 17-year-old home-hardening grant program lawmakers resurrected in 2022. They’ve since poured $433 million into the program for roof-, door- and window-improving projects. The Senate voted 39-0 for the bill Wednesday, six days after House lawmakers gave it similarly uniform approval.

“Short-term vacation rental bill barely passes Florida House” via Mitch Perry of Florida Phoenix — With just two days left to go before the 2024 Florida Legislative Session ends, the state House approved a short-term vacation rental measure to adopt new regulations on rental platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. But the Senate has to approve the legislation as well. The House narrowly approved the measure (SB 280), with a vote of 60-51. The vote took place a day after the bill sponsor, Bay County Republican Philip Griffitts, introduced a 44-page amendment with new provisions to make it more palatable to members who have expressed concerns about the legislation. Among the latest changes: A new “grandfather” clause that allows local governments to keep their own local vacation rental ordinances that were introduced before 2016 — specifically carving out Broward and Flagler counties. In addition, the bill would remove the listing of physical addresses in a statewide registry of vacation rentals.

“Lawmakers pass bill requiring teaching of history of communism in public schools” via John Kennedy of the Pensacola News Journal — Kindergartners across Florida may soon be taught a few things about Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin and Fidel Castro as lawmakers signed off on legislation requiring that the history of communism be taught in lower grades. The House approved a bill (SB 1264) Wednesday by a 106-7 vote, following a similar overwhelming vote last week in the Senate. The measure now goes to DeSantis, who is expected to sign it into law. Under the bill, the Florida Department of Education would be ordered to “prepare and offer” standards for the instruction in the history of communism, with certain concepts included that heavily emphasize the economic upheaval and personal freedom restrictions seen in many communist nations.

“Legislature passes ban on cultivated meat” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — The Legislature just passed the nation’s first complete ban on the sale of lab-grown meat. The House passed an agriculture bill (SB 1084) that includes a prohibition on the commercial distribution of cultivated meat, though it will allow scientific research in the burgeoning field. “If you believe that we are doing this because we know that Florida’s agriculture can hold us down and provide plenty of safe quality beef and agricultural products, you are absolutely correct,” said Rep. Danny Alvarez, who is carrying the bill who insists on calling the lab product “cultivated protein” and not “meat.”

Wilton Simpson praises lawmakers for passing FDACS agency bill — Agriculture Commissioner Simpson applauded the Legislature for passing SB 1084, which supports Florida agriculture and Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and growers; expands options for customers to apply for and renew concealed weapon and other professional licenses; prohibits the sale of lab-grown meat; expands consumer protections and transparency across a number of regulated industries, and more. “Food security is national security, and we all have a responsibility to ensure Floridians have access to a safe, affordable, and abundant food supply. This legislation is a reflection of our continued commitment to supporting and protecting Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and growers and enhancing consumer protection and transparency,” Simpson said

— MORE LEGISLATIVE —

“Chambers clash over property insurance as Session draws to close” via Gray Rohrer of Florida Politics — With two days remaining in the Regular Session, the House and Senate are struggling to find consensus on what could be the state’s biggest pocketbook issue: property insurance. Bills to prioritize applicants for a program to harden homes against storms, allow surplus lines insurers to take over some secondary homes covered by state-run Citizens Property Insurance Corp., and require insurers to report more data more frequently to the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) could falter in the final stages amid disagreements between the chambers. On Wednesday, each chamber amended property insurance bills that had already passed the other chamber, “bouncing” the legislation back across the hall.

“Harsher penalties for deadly stunt driving, street takeovers on road to DeSantis’ desk” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — A bill that will help police crackdown on dangerous driving and perilous street takeovers is en route to DeSantis’ desk after exiting the Legislature with broad support. If signed or allowed to become law without further action, the measure (SB 1764) will add to strictures lawmakers approved in 2022 enabling cops to hand out fines and make arrests based on video evidence of stunt driving and drag racing. Notably, it will hike fines for coordinating or participating in those events and street takeovers to up to $2,000 for a first offense and a one-year license suspension. Subsequent offenses would carry much harsher penalties. “This is a great bill. It’s not often that we have the opportunity to pass bills that will actually save lives. And when we do, it’s a blessing,” said Rep. Kiyan Michael, one of the measure’s sponsors, before House members voted 106-2 for its passage Wednesday.

“Legislature fully funds gambling addiction program for first time” via Florida Politics — You can bet that more compulsive gamblers in Florida will get the help they need this year, thanks to an unprecedented move during the Legislature’s budgeting process. For the first time, lawmakers approved infusing the Florida Compulsive and Addictive Gambling Prevention Program with $2 million, the full sum the state collects from eight slot-licensed pari-mutuels yearly. The funds were always meant to go to the program. But ever since its creation in 2005, the program has never received more than $1.25 million. Lawmakers repeatedly diverted the remainder into the state’s general fund. Not this year. The recent launch of Seminole Hard Rock Casino’s sports betting operations has led to a 100% surge in gambling addiction calls. The Legislature reversed its planned sweep of $750,000 from the collected funds and allowed all of it to go to the program.

“Legislature dumps China rollback language before passing easement bill” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — An effort in the Senate to loosen restrictions on Chinese nationals buying Florida real estate won’t reach fruition this year. The Senate approved easements legislation (HB 799) passed by the House and, in turn, dumped language allowing purchases by Chinese buyers under certain conditions. In the upper chamber, sponsors hoped the bill would serve as a vehicle to revise a China crackdown law passed last year. Those efforts slowed after DeSantis slammed the language as an attempt to “unwind” a national security law he signed and has touted across the country. Sen. Clay Yarborough, who sponsored the easements bill in the Senate, said real estate professionals have raised a number of concerns about unintended consequences of last year’s bill on land purchases.

“Food delivery app rules pass Senate, will head to DeSantis for approval” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — The House has voted unanimously to make a state preemption of rules over food delivery platforms law, passing the same measure that the Senate also passed unanimously last month. SB 676, sponsored by Sen. Jennifer Bradley, would relegate the regulation of “food delivery platforms” that corral orders from multiple restaurants to the government in Tallahassee. The legislation is supported by a number of influential groups, including the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, Grubhub, the Associated Industries of Florida, Uber Technologies, the Florida Chamber, TechNet and the James Madison Institute. The Digital Restaurant Association opposes the bill, meanwhile. The bill requires delivery platforms to obtain the written or electronic consent of restaurants before picking up orders.

“Senate tees up bill allowing chaplains in schools for final vote despite Democratic worries of ‘animal sacrifice’” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — HB 931 and SB 1044 would “authorize volunteer school chaplains to provide supports, services, and programs to students as assigned by the district School Board or charter school Governing Board,” with districts implementing the chaplain proposal at their discretion. Boards would have to determine to which programs and services chaplains would be assigned, would have to inform parents that chaplains be informed, and would have to get parental consent before chaplains interacted with students. “Parents must be permitted to select a volunteer school chaplain from the list provided by the school district, which must include the chaplain’s religious affiliation, if any,” the bill reads, noting that the list must be published on the district website.

“Legislature passes ban on undocumented migrant IDs” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Earlier this week, the House passed HB 1451, which bans “counties & municipalities, respectively, from accepting certain ID cards or documents that are knowingly issued to individuals who are not lawfully present” in the U.S. The Senate has now followed suit, putting the bill on a glide path to DeSantis. The bill deals with an isolated problem that has largely been solved already. Various South Florida jurisdictions have accepted such identification in recent years, though those initiatives stopped being funded last Summer. Rep. Michael and Berny Jacques’ “carbon copy” bill ultimately was substituted for Sen. Blaise Ingoglia’s measure (SB 1174). After robust debate on the legislation with Democrats expressing qualms about banning these cards for undocumented immigrants, the bill was nevertheless positioned for success.

“Patriotic organization legislation headed back to House after Senate changes” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Rep. Wyman Duggan’s bill (HB 1317), which Senate sponsor Tom Wright substituted for his own legislation, would allow representatives of so-called “patriotic organizations” time to meet with students and distribute recruitment materials, with schools providing designated time for these groups to pitch their attendees. Wright offered two amendments, however, a delete-all that tweaks the language but doesn’t offer major changes, and an amendment that defines a “patriotic organization” as “a youth membership organization serving young people under the age of 21 with an educational purpose that promotes patriotism and civic involvement which is listed in Title 36.” Six organizations made the cut on the House side: Big Brothers-Big Sisters of America, the Boy Scouts of America, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Civil Air Patrol, National FFA Organization and the Girl Scouts of the United States of America.

“Republicans troll Kamala Harris with slavery education bill” via A.G. Gancarski of Florida Politics — Legislation filed in the Senate and House would put a partisan spin on teaching about one of America’s most brutal historical eras. And the bill title targets the current Vice President of the United States. The so-called Kamala Harris Truth in Slavery Teaching Act (SB 1192, HB 1139) contemplates “requiring instruction on the history of African Americans to include a comprehensive account of the sociopolitical circumstances surrounding slavery, including which political parties supported slavery by adopting pro-slavery tenets as part of their platform, etc.” Sponsors make it clear that the legislative intent would be to make it clear that Southern Democrats were key to promulgating human suffrage, with the Senate sponsor noting the Vice President’s own ironic inspiration of the bill.

— EVEN MORE LEGISLATIVE —

“Florida voters to decide whether to end public money for state campaigns” via Gary Fineout of POLITICO — The Florida Legislature on Wednesday voted to place on this year’s ballot a proposed amendment that would repeal the state’s decadeslong practice of handing out public money to candidates for Governor and the three Cabinet spots. DeSantis got more than $7.3 million in taxpayer money for his successful re-election campaign in 2022. “It is getting more and more expensive for taxpayers to fund campaigns of politicians,” said Sen. Travis Hutson, the Republican Senator and sponsor of the measure. “If passed, this amendment would send a strong message to Tallahassee elected officials that voters want their tax dollars to be used for something more important.” If 60% of voters agree to the amendment — which will be on the November ballot — it would remove a potential source of money for what could be a crowded field running for statewide office in 2026.

“Home energy rebate money DeSantis vetoed has new life in proposed budget” via Bruce Ritchie of POLITICO — DeSantis never stated a reason last year for vetoing the Inflation Reduction Act spending through the state agriculture department. But earlier this year, his 2024-25 state budget request included $1.7 million for administering the grant program through an agency under his direction. The Governor’s veto last June, as he was running for President, was viewed as a slap against Commissioner Simpson, a former Senate President who has been at odds with DeSantis on a variety of issues in recent years. DeSantis also vetoed $100 million for conservation easements purchased through Simpson’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The House and Senate’s proposed 2024-25 state budget of $117.4 billion includes $346 million in spending authority through Simpson’s Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services if the federal funding is received.

“Senate honors Kathleen Passidomo, unveils official portrait and presents special 4-legged gift” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — Senators unveiled the official portrait for outgoing Senate President Passidomo during a traditional ceremony bidding farewell to outgoing leaders. In addition to the official portrait, Senators also gifted Passidomo with a safe school canine in honor of her work developing Florida’s statewide Safe School Canine Program. The gift is largely symbolic. The dog, named Birdie, is a two-year-old yellow lab the Lee County Sheriff’s Office received last month and is currently under training. When Birdie completes her training, she will live with a Lee County Sheriff’s deputy and work alongside that deputy in Lee County Public Schools. “With assistance from the Florida Sheriffs Association and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Senators purchased a safe school canine, making President Passidomo a Safe School Canine Partner,” said Senate Majority Leader Ben Albritton, who presented the gift to Passidomo alongside Senate Democratic Leader Lauren Book.

— CAP REAX —

“Teachers union: ‘Unprecedented’ new education funding won’t move state out of basement national rankings” via Anne Geggis of Florida Politics — Republican legislative leaders are highlighting a record level of education spending this Session. But the state’s largest teachers union says won’t get Florida out of its basement rankings for teacher pay or per-student spending. The $117.5 billion budget plan that arrived on Republican House Speaker Renner’s desk included $1.2 billion toward teacher salaries and a $240 boost in per-student spending. “We are increasing K-12 per-student funding to an unprecedented level, including raising the base student allocation, which we know provides important, needed flexibility for our districts,” said Sen. Keith Perry, Chair of the Senate Education Appropriations Committee, in a prepared statement. “We are renewing our commitment to Florida’s public schoolteachers with a $1.2 billion investment in teacher salaries.”

“A Florida ban on unhoused people sleeping on public property is being described as cruel” via Lynn Hatter of WFSU — Cities and counties in Florida would not be allowed to let unhoused people sleep on public property — but municipalities could set up designated public areas for camping. Many are calling it the bill cruel and unworkable as it heads to the Governor’s desk for consideration. “It’s heartbreaking because you’re here to do mighty work, but you feel like an ant in a room full of giants,” said Big Bend Continuum of Care Executive Director, Johnna Coleman. The agency helps unhoused people in the area and a day after the bill’s passage, Coleman says she’s feeling devastated. “[Like] There’s thousands of tiny … ants, but one giant smashes lots of ants at one time. That’s how this feels.” She’s not alone. In the run-up to the measure’s passage, some lawmakers tried, in vain, to stop it. Democratic Sen. Rosalind Osgood told colleagues that she’s been homeless before — both in and out of addiction recovery, and she argued the bill overlooks several critical issues.

AFP-FL cheers Senate passage of interstate licensure bill — Americans for Prosperity-Florida is praising Senators for giving the green light to a bill (SB 1600) that would authorize appropriate state agencies to allow licensure by endorsement for various professionals practicing in other states. “As a beacon of economic freedom and family-friendly policies, the Sunshine State attracts some 300,000 new Floridians each year. Thanks to the Legislature, many of these individuals will now be able to secure state licenses to continue their chosen profession without skipping a beat or unnecessarily missing a paycheck due to bureaucratic delays,” AFP-FL State Director Skylar Zander said. “SB 1600 will also help ensure that Floridians will have access to quality health care, expanding the pool of health care providers by streamlining the licensing process for those moving from other states.”

FLIC bashes bill upping penalties for driving without a license — FLIC Votes issued a news release saying it “vehemently opposes” legislation (HB 1589/SB 1324) that will impose harsher penalties on individuals who are driving without a valid driver’s license. “The bill’s failure to address the root causes of unlicensed driving and its punitive purpose underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and equitable solutions,” FLIC Votes Deputy Director Renata Bozzetto said. “We firmly believe that public safety on our roads is paramount. However, true safety is achieved through comprehensive measures such as driver education, issuing driver’s licenses to all qualified drivers, and access to insurance — not through punitive enforcement. Rather than criminalizing individuals, the Republican Legislature in Florida should work to invest in initiatives that promote driver safety, address disparities in the licensing process, and ensure equitable access to transportation for all residents.”

Coalition for Responsible Celebration backs balloon release ban — CRC is praising a bill (HB 321) by Rep. Linda Chaney to ban intentional balloon releases. CRC Executive Director Maria Stockham said, “Our coalition recognizes the importance of promoting responsible balloon usage and ensuring safe access to these delightful decorations. By supporting this bill, we reaffirm our commitment to sustainable practices and advocate for the preservation of Florida’s natural beauty. We urge legislators to prioritize the passage of this legislation, emphasizing the importance of proper balloon disposal and safe handling practices. Together, let’s foster a culture of environmental consciousness while continuing to celebrate with balloons responsibly.” CRC also applauded Sen. Nick DiCeglie, who sponsored the Senate companion.

— THE SKED —

Assignment editors — Reps. Dianne Hart, Angie Nixon and Susan Valdés join families of individuals who have been victims of physical and medical abuses while incarcerated in the Florida Department of Corrections for a news conference: 9 a.m., 4th Floor Rotunda.

— 10 a.m. The Senate holds a floor Session. Senate Chambers.

— 10:30 a.m. The House holds a floor Session. House Chambers.

— 6:15 p.m. Senate Special Order Calendar Group meets. Room 401, Senate Office Building.

— LOBBY REGS —

Christopher Chaney, Steve Schale, Sarah Suskey, The Advocacy Partners: Marriott International

James Daughton, Leslie Dughi, Anna Grace Lewis, Allison Liby-Schoonover, Aimee Diaz Lyon, Andrew Palmer, Karl Rasmussen, Metz Husband & Daughton: bluebird bio

Sean Pittman, Pittman Law Group: SROA Capital

Alan Suskey, Jordyn Ferguson, Shumaker Advisors Florida: FARM-ED, CAN Community Health, Ocean Conservancy

— OTHER STATEWIDE —

“DeSantis accused of lack of transparency, sued again in Tallahassee” via Douglas Soule of USA Today Network — DeSantis has been hit with another lawsuit accusing his office of a lack of transparency in how it responds — or doesn’t respond — to public records requests. American Oversight, a government accountability watchdog organization, sued the Governor’s office last week in Leon County Circuit Civil court, saying it delayed providing public information, contrary to state law. DeSantis’ “unlawful delay in responding to public records has undermined Florida’s long-held commitment to government transparency,” said Heather Sawyer, American Oversight’s executive director, in a statement. American Oversight says it has 23 public records requests pending with the office, specifically mentioning 12 of them in its suit. The group has been waiting for more than a year with many of them, it says, and two to three years with some.

“Was Florida inmate Craig Ridley stomped by guards before he died?” via Tristram Korten of the Florida Trident — The killing of Ridley was shocking: In 2017 the Florida prison inmate was beaten by two corrections officers, paralyzed, misdiagnosed, and placed in solitary confinement where he couldn’t move to eat or go to the bathroom for days. Officers claimed Ridley was faking paralysis; he eventually died in a hospital from sepsis as a result of being left untreated. Following a Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigation of Ridley’s death at the Reception and Medical Center in Lake Butler, state prosecutors declined to file charges against the two officers, who testified they had to forcibly restrain Ridley by pushing him to the floor after he assaulted one of them.

“Skyrocketing insurance rates test resolve of Florida homeowners in risky areas” via Amy Green of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — In the last seven years, Florida has weathered five major hurricanes. If the disasters sharpened Floridians’ resolve, in the immediate aftermath, to build back stronger and better, another crisis may be causing some to rethink where they live and the rising risk as the global climate warms. Annual home insurance rates in the five and six figures have not been unheard of in recent years, and many homeowners have received letters from their insurers informing them that their existing policies will not be renewed. Some homeowners have received multiple such letters from multiple insurers, leaving them scrambling from one policy to the next, as lenders require mortgage holders to carry insurance. Others whose homes are paid off are going without insurance altogether, to spare the expense.

— 2024 —

“Nikki Haley ends White House bid, clearing path for a Donald Trump-Joe Biden rematch” via Gram Slattery and Joseph Ax of Reuters — Haley ended her long shot challenge to Trump, ensuring the former President will be the party’s candidate in a rematch with Biden in November’s election. Haley bowed out a day after Super Tuesday when Trump beat her soundly in 14 of 15 Republican nominating contests. “The time has now come to suspend my campaign,” Haley told supporters during a speech in Charleston. “I have no regrets.” She said it was likely Trump — who repeatedly belittled her candidacy — would be the Republican nominee but did not endorse him.

“Where will Haley’s supporters go now that she dropped out?” via Derek Hawkins, Dylan Wells, Sabrina Rodriguez, Jenn Ackerman, Matt McClain, Kim Raff and Rachel Woolf of The Washington Post — Going into Super Tuesday, many Haley supporters saw her campaign as their last hope — excited by her pitch to be a new generational leader for the Republican Party and sold on her argument that she would easily defeat Biden in a General Election. But after a final round of crushing defeats, this time in 14 states, Haley dropped out, raising the question of where her supporters will turn now that Trump has no major opponents left on his path to becoming the Republican nominee.

“Trump attacks Haley and her supporters right as she drops out of the race: ‘Got trounced last night’” via Isaac Schorr of Mediaite — Trump mocked Haley right as Haley walked out to a podium to drop out of the GOP Primary race on Wednesday morning, hours after Trump romped through the Super Tuesday Primaries. “Nikki Haley got TROUNCED last night, in record-setting fashion, despite the fact that Democrats, for reasons unknown, are allowed to vote in Vermont, and various other Republican Primaries,” began Trump in a post on Truth Social. “Much of her money came from Radical Left Democrats, as did many of her voters, almost 50%. At this point, I hope she stays in the ‘race’ and fights it out until the end!”

“Biden: There is a place for Haley supporters in my campaign” via Brett Samuels of The Hill — Biden on Wednesday welcomed Haley supporters to back his re-election campaign as the former ambassador to the United Nations ended her bid for the Republican nomination. “It takes a lot of courage to run for President — that’s especially true in today’s Republican Party, where so few dare to speak the truth about Donald Trump,” Biden said. “Nikki Haley was willing to speak the truth about Trump: about the chaos that always follows him, about his inability to see right from wrong, about his cowering before Vladimir Putin.”

“Biden camp looks to reel in Haley donors” via Elena Schneider and Meridith McGraw of POLITICO — Members of Biden’s campaign finance team began privately reaching out to Haley donors on Wednesday after the former U.N. Ambassador announced she was suspending her presidential campaign. The overtures to donors, which were confirmed by a person directly familiar with them, were part of a larger effort to welcome those in Haley’s camp aggrieved by the end of her race against Trump. Haley’s aides made clear that they were not pleased with Trump’s criticism of their boss, including a far-from-magnanimous statement he issued upon her leaving the race. Haley herself declined to endorse Trump and stated that he had to earn the backing of her supporters.

—”Bracing for a Trump rematch, Biden confronts four thorny challenges” via Reid J. Epstein of The New York Times

“Trump dares Biden to debate after jilting Republican rivals” via Hadriana Lowenkron of Bloomberg — Trump challenged Biden to debate after refusing to attend the same forums with his Republican Primary challengers, a change in attitude that coincides with the effective start of the 2024 general election. “It is important, for the Good of our Country, that Joe Biden and I Debate Issues that are so vital to America, and the American People,” Trump wrote in a post on his social media platform Truth Social. “Therefore, I am calling for Debates, ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, ANYPLACE!” Trump’s desire to debate comes hours after his final Republican rival, Haley, dropped out of the race, marking the start of the longest general presidential election in recent history. Trump skipped out on five Primary debates despite one of his opponents, Chris Christie, calling him a “chicken” for failing to show up.

“Dean Phillips ends long shot Democratic Primary challenge to Biden” via Alison Main and Kaanita Iyer of CNN — Minnesota Rep. Phillips announced Wednesday that he was dropping out of the 2024 Democratic Presidential Primary and throwing his support behind Biden. “I ran for Congress in 2018 to resist Donald Trump, I was trapped in the Capitol in 2021 because of Donald Trump, and I ran for President in 2024 to resist Donald Trump again — because Americans were demanding an alternative, and democracy demands options,” the Congressman said on social media. “But it is clear that alternative is not me. And it is clear that Joe Biden is OUR candidate and OUR opportunity to demonstrate what type of country America is and intends to be,” he added.

“Supreme Court sets argument date in Trump immunity case for April 25” via John Fritze of CNN — The Supreme Court will hear arguments on April 25 in the blockbuster case over whether Trump may claim immunity from prosecution in the federal election subversion case. The court previously said it would hear arguments in the case during the week of April 22. On Wednesday, it announced that it would hear the case during a rare Thursday session. The timing of the case has drawn considerable scrutiny as it could help determine whether Trump faces trial over his efforts to overturn the 2020 Election before the November 2024 Election. Special counsel Jack Smith, who brought the criminal charges, has sought to speed up the proceedings over Trump’s immunity claim so that he can bring the matter to trial as quickly as possible.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“House passes bipartisan $460 billion spending bill to avert a partial shutdown” via Catie Edmondson of The New York Times — The House on Wednesday passed a $460 billion spending bill to fund about half the federal government through the Fall, moving to avert a partial shutdown at the end of the week and offering the first glimmer of resolution to bitter spending fights that have consumed Congress for months. The 339-to-85 vote capped months of heated negotiations over federal funding that have repeatedly pushed the government to the edge of shutdown as Republicans pressed for cuts and conservative policies. It was yet another instance in which Speaker Mike Johnson was forced to steer around the opposition of the hard right and turn to Democrats to supply the bulk of the votes for critical legislation to keep the government running. The Senate was expected to take up and pass the bill easily, sending it to Biden in time for it to become law before a midnight deadline on Friday.

“Mitch McConnell endorses Trump after years of acrimony between them” via Josh Dawsey of The Washington Post — Senate Minority Leader McConnell endorsed Trump after years of acrimony between them, cementing Trump’s continued hold on the Republican Party. “It is abundantly clear that former President Trump has earned the requisite support of Republican voters to be our nominee for President of the United States,” McConnell said. “It should come as no surprise that as nominee, he will have my support. During his presidency, we worked together to accomplish great things for the American people including tax reform that supercharged our economy and a generational change of our federal judiciary — most importantly, the Supreme Court. I look forward to the opportunity of switching from playing defense against the terrible policies the Biden administration has pursued to a sustained offense geared toward making a real difference in improving the lives of the American people.”

“Rick Scott and Kat Cammack champion resolution backing IVF” via Michael Costeines of Florida’s Voice — Sen. Scott and Rep. Cammack introduced a resolution in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives supporting in vitro fertilization, or IVF, for Americans looking to start and grow families. “IVF is a wonderful thing that enables so many Americans struggling with infertility to have children and start a family,” Scott said. “I have friends and family members who have used IVF and so do countless Floridians and Americans.” According to the resolution, in vitro fertilization is an “assisted reproductive technology developed and used for infertility treatment in adult women.”

“Carlos Giménez invites Cuban activist Rosa María Payá to State of the Union address” via Nora Gámez Torres of the Miami Herald — Cuban pro-democracy activist Payá will join Miami Republican Giménez in Washington as his guest at the State of the Union address to be delivered by President Biden on Thursday in an effort to highlight the situation of political prisoners on the island, the Congressman says. Payá is the daughter of the late Cuban opposition leader Oswaldo Payá, who founded the Christian Liberation Movement and was killed in a car crash believed to be a politically motivated assassination in 2012. Exiled to Miami after the dissident’s death, she has continued her father’s work advocating for human rights and democracy on the island.

“Kathy Castor pushes for congressional hearing on kratom” via Sam Ogozalek and Hannah Critchfield of the Tampa Bay Times — U.S. Rep. Castor said she wants kratom experts and the federal FDA to answer questions about the psychoactive plant during testimony on Capitol Hill to help lawmakers determine next steps. “The heart-wrenching stories of families highlighted in your series, I don’t see how you can sit by and say, ‘OK, this doesn’t deserve a fair look at what is being marketed to people,’” Castor said. “You don’t know what’s in it. It’s not labeled. It’s open season.” Castor’s call on lawmakers to further probe the herb comes as Congress is weighing a bill backed by kratom lobbyists. She criticized the legislation, calling it the “Kratom Industry Protection Act,” and raised doubts about whether it will keep consumers safe given the death toll in Florida alone. “That bill would limit the ability of federal agencies to impose any regulations,” Castor said.

— DOWN BALLOT —

“Jared Moskowitz, serving first term in Congress, considers long-shot run for Governor in 2026” via Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — Moskowitz’s lifelong dream, achieved in a 2022 Election victory, was to go to Congress. Now, even before winning his first re-election campaign, he’s contemplating giving it up to take a shot at a much bigger office: Florida Governor. For now, it’s preliminary talk. But it was fueled by Moskowitz himself — to a wide audience of political insiders and observers. “I’m not ruling it out,” the Democratic Congressman told POLITICO at the U.S. Capitol. “I’m looking at it but it’s super early.” That comment, along with his self-assessment that a key part of his background could be a plus, is attracting attention in the political world.

“Meltdown in Palm Beach deepens Democrats’ problems” via the South Florida Sun-Sentinel editorial board — In an action considered unprecedented, Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried this week suspended both counties’ Party Chairs and a third County Chair in North Florida’s Franklin County. Even if such a drastic step was warranted — and both sides sharply disagree on that — the timing is all wrong, weeks before the first candidate qualifying deadline for the Fall elections. Fried sent a letter to Palm Beach Democratic Chair Mindy Koch, telling her that the party fell “out of compliance” with state rules for canceling contracts without members’ approval, the lack of an adopted budget, improperly removing party members who missed three straight meetings, and creating an environment that prevents the party from being successful.

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“Longtime Martin County Sheriff William Snyder won’t seek fourth term” via Will Greenlee and Melissa E. Holsman of Treasure Coast Newspapers — Snyder announced Wednesday he will not seek a fourth term as Sheriff. Snyder, a Republican who served in the state House from 2006 until he was elected Sheriff in 2012, said he plans “to serve until the last hour of my term and will remain fully engaged in serving the public.” Snyder, whose term ends when a new Sheriff is sworn in early January, has a long time in law enforcement service, joining the Martin County Sheriff’s Office in 1993, before his time in the House. He said when he was elected 12 years ago, he knew the day would come when it was time to “lay it down.”

“Martin County protects 2,800 acres for conservation, but neighbors have safety concerns” via Keith Burbank of Treasure Coast Newspapers — More than 2,800 acres of southwestern Martin County farmland became conservation land, and some nearby residents are fearful of what could happen next. The land is owned by the county and the South Florida Water Management District, but neighbors are complaining of gunshots there and the destruction of land and fear it could become worse. County Commissioners voted to approve the land use-change, but at least two residents asked Commissioners to consider how the county defines recreational use of the land because they not only hear gunshots regularly, but they say wetlands are being destroyed. Code enforcement officers are afraid to go into the area without the protection of a Sheriff’s deputy because it’s unsafe, Commissioner Sarah Heard said.

“Royal Palm Beach election: What you need to know about the race for Mayor” via Valentina Palm of the Palm Beach Post — A newcomer to elected politics is challenging Royal Palm Beach’s longtime Mayor in the upcoming March 19 election. Steve Avila is running against incumbent Fred Pinto, who is seeking his fifth term in the village’s top office. Three of the five seats on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council are up for election this year, but only the Mayor’s seat will be contested. Incumbents Jeff Hamra and Selena Samios were unopposed for two-year terms on the Council. In Royal Palm Beach, there are no term limits for the Mayor and Council members. Polling places across the county will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. that day when Florida’s Presidential Primary Elections also will occur.

“Miami City Attorney’s Office grapples with resignations amid Victoria Méndez turmoil” via Naomi Feinstein of the Miami New Times — The hits keep coming for the Miami city attorney’s office. Miami city attorney Méndez disclosed that three staff lawyers have departed from her office in recent months, two of whom resigned. The exodus comes as Méndez finds herself at the center of controversy on multiple fronts, including scrutiny over her family’s alleged profiteering from real estate transactions tied to the Guardianship Program of Dade County. “I have two attorneys on maternity leave,” Méndez wrote to the Bar in February. “Another two attorneys have resigned, and another attorney has retired. My deputy city attorney is dealing with a family emergency. We are going through a difficult time in the office with workloads and in the process of hiring for these recent and other vacancies.”

“Investigation concludes Margate Police Chief’s conduct in texts a ‘potential liability’” via Lisa J. Huriash of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — After a female lieutenant with the Margate Police Department filed a complaint about the Chief, she alleges things got worse. She told an investigator the rumor mill was circulating within the department about the Chief’s texts about her. The city hired an attorney to launch an investigation. The investigation has determined there is “concern regarding potential gender bias” within the agency and “sufficient circumstantial evidence to substantiate (a) claim of harassment and hostile work environment.” The investigation’s report finds that text messages between Police Chief Joseph Galaska and a sergeant, who is a friend, show the chief writing about the female lieutenant, “I will never ever make her a major.”

“Sean Cooley departing South Florida Water Management District” via Ryan Nicol of Florida Politics — Cooley, a five-year veteran of the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), is departing the District next week. Cooley most recently served as the SFWMD Chief Communications and Public Policy Officer. Cooley’s last day will be Monday, March 11, after which he will take over as Chief of Communications for Palm Beach County Schools. “Saying farewell to the water management district is bittersweet. Over the past five years, I have been privileged to witness unprecedented progress and work alongside the most dedicated and passionate individuals (both inside and outside the agency),” Cooley said. “Reflecting on our accomplishments fills me with immense pride. From the permanent protection of thousands of acres in the Everglades to new initiatives in water quality monitoring and resiliency, the agency’s efforts will have a lasting impact on our region’s water resources.”

“Brightline train struck, killed woman on tracks near Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach” via Julius Whigham II of The Palm Beach Post — A Brightline train struck and killed a woman in Delray Beach late on Tuesday, March 5, police said. The city did not immediately identify the woman, who witnesses described as being on the tracks near Atlantic Avenue before the crash. The fatal wreck happened at about 11:30 p.m., police said. Witnesses told investigators the collision occurred while the gates were down, signaling the approach of the southbound train. Brightline trains have struck and killed at least 31 people in Palm Beach County since the high-speed rail company began service in 2018. Brightline uses the FEC Railway tracks in Palm Beach County, which have few barriers to pedestrians walking along them or crossing them.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“DeSantis puts ethics rule-breaker in charge of Orange elections” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — So much for election integrity. DeSantis chose a guy forced to resign from office in one of the state’s highest-profile ethics flaps to run Orange County’s elections office. Let’s be clear: It’s not my opinion that Glen Gilzean ran afoul of state ethics laws. It was the conclusion of the state Ethics Commission — which Gilzean actually led. It was the most Florida story ever: Florida ethics leader violates Florida ethics law. Gilzean was the DeSantis-appointed Chair of the state’s joke of an Ethics Commission when the Governor’s allies asked him to also take a $400,000-a-year job running the Governor’s new anti-Disney government district.

“Glen Gilzean says he is ‘laser-focused’ on new job as Orange elections chief” via Skyler Swisher of the Orlando Sentinel — Newly minted Orange County Elections Supervisor Gilzean says he’s “laser-focused” on running secure elections but isn’t saying whether he intends to quit his job with the Disney oversight district or plot a new course in Central Florida politics. In an email, Gilzean said he is awaiting “direction” from the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District’s Board on his future there. He also isn’t revealing whether he intends to run for elections supervisor in November. “Right now, my focus is being the most effective Supervisor of Elections I can be while serving the citizens of Orange County, and ensuring the current elections are secure and seamless while providing the utmost transparency to the public,” he said. “As for CFTOD, I’ve informed the Chair and am awaiting direction from the Board during this time to ensure the transition is seamless. I know the district is in competent hands.”

“Orlando moves to control 6,300 acres of Sunbridge development” via Stephen Hudak and Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — Orlando is preparing to annex nearly 6,300 acres of the long-planned — and enormous — Sunbridge development being built by Tavistock on both sides of the Orange/Osceola County line. The proposed annexation of land currently in unincorporated Orange County would give the city control of a hugely lucrative project that will have enormous environmental impacts. But Orlando’s move caught Orange County leaders who would lose their jurisdiction by surprise, vexing some, though under state law there is little they can do to stop it. “We got this sprung on us,” said Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson, an advocate for environmental protection and rural areas. “It’s really troublesome. This is a gigantic development in a very ecologically sensitive area.”

“Olympic trial, Pro Bowl, PGA event lead to record Orange County hotel tax” via Stephen Hudak of the Orlando Sentinel — Tourism in Orange County rode a wave of marquee sporting events and high-attendance conventions in January to generate more than $30 million in hotel tax revenue, a record for the traditionally slow post-holiday month. The tax brought in $30.4 million, about $1.4 million more than in January 2023, the previous best, according to figures released this morning by Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond, whose office tracks receipts of the 6% lodging surcharge. “January 2024 was an especially busy month for metro Orlando tourism,” he said. Diamond cited several sporting events of “significant regional impact.”

“Brevard Schools is creating the 2024-2025 student code of conduct. Here are the big changes” via Finch Walker of Florida Today — Following community workshops that spanned about five months, Brevard’s School Board plans to implement changes to the student code of conduct for the upcoming year. At a work session, Board members agreed on dozens of tweaks to the current code. The final draft of the 2024-25 code still has to be finalized and approved at a Board meeting. Most proposed changes encompass creating clearer definitions within the code of conduct regarding specific punishable behaviors and the consequences for these behaviors. These changes were proposed by Student Services in collaboration with work groups that met several times since the Fall of 2023.

“Daytona wants to sink $53M into Jackie Robinson Ballpark and a new fire station” via Eileen Zaffiro-Kean of the Daytona Beach News-Journal — After deciding to invest millions of dollars in Jackie Robinson Ballpark improvements, and to build a new fire station, the city started the process of how to pay for those projects. City Commissioners gave initial consideration to issuing $53 million in bonds to pay for the two endeavors. Commissioners will make a final decision at their March 20 meeting. If approved, the capital improvement revenue bonds will pay for the design and construction of a new Fire Station No. 1 on Ridgewood Avenue, and to buy an aerial fire truck and fire engine apparatus. The money would also cover costs for the first phase of improvements to Jackie Robinson Ballpark.

— LOCAL: TB —

“Hillsborough Commission votes to cut election chief’s budget by $200K” via Sue Carlton of the Tampa Bay Times — In an unusual 4-3 vote Wednesday, Hillsborough County Commissioners agreed to cut the Election Supervisor’s already-approved budget by $200,000. Commissioner Josh Wostal called for the reduction of longtime Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer’s $18 million budget, pointing to what he called “a historic unexpected 11.5% drop in active registered voters.” Wostal questioned the cost of election-related mailers to “these inactive/ghost registrations” and calculated that they cost approximately $200,000 in postage, printing and packaging.

“Pinellas schools look to boost attendance by making it easier to skip finals” via Jeffrey S. Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — Pinellas County high school students could find it easier to opt out of their final exams next year. School district officials said they view the idea as a way to encourage teens to attend classes more regularly. Their plan, presented to the School Board on Tuesday, would allow students to exempt semester exams for as many as three courses in which they are averaging a C grade or better over both quarters and have not missed more than five days in those classes.

“DEI takes center stage during debate Wednesday at USF” via Jason Lanning of Bay News 9 — A debate concerning Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs on college campuses is taking place Wednesday night at the University of South Florida. The debate comes after DeSantis signed a law last year prohibiting public colleges and universities from spending money on DEI on college campuses. Diversity offices on several state university campuses dissolved last week. The debate on Wednesday is being sponsored by the First Amendment Forum, College Republicans, and College Democrats, and will feature speakers on both sides of the issue. The debate is taking place at the Oval Theater at USF Marshall Student Center (2nd floor). Ameshia Cross and Richard Corcoran will be the featured speakers.

“Longest serving Hillsborough prosecutor retiring: ‘I’ve got mixed emotions’” via Gloria Gomez of Fox News — Hillsborough Assistant State Attorney Darrell Dirks is used to making headlines with big wins in state court, “but the headline today is I’m not going to be showing up to work,” explained Dirks. After a 35-year run as one of the top prosecutors at the Hillsborough State Attorney’s Office, Dirks is closing his case files for good and retiring. “It feels good. I’ve got mixed emotions. I love working at the state attorney’s office, but I feel it’s a good time to go,” said Dirks. But as he reflects back on his storied career, he began to get emotional. He knew leaving a life passion is never easy. “Every day you come to work you feel like you’re doing something good,” he explained as he wiped away tears.

“Could Tampa miss out on a new Amtrak service?” via Olivia George of the Tampa Bay Times — Tampa Union Station is the second-busiest Amtrak station in Florida, welcoming almost 130,000 passengers last fiscal year. Despite the growing ridership and recent investments from the city, state and Amtrak to update the historic station, it could miss out on expanded rail service, according to preliminary proposals from the Federal Railroad Administration. The administration is studying priorities for restoring long-distance intercity rail passenger service and the potential for new Amtrak routes nationwide. “The Federal Railroad Administration should be making the most out of these fresh investments in rail infrastructure in Tampa, not bypassing them,” said Brandie Miklus, president of the Friends of Tampa Union Station.

“Hillsborough County uses new ‘bike boxes’ to improve cyclist safety” via Tim Wronka of Bay News 9 — Drivers in Hillsborough County are now seeing some new green pavement markers on the roads. These are part of the county’s new “bike boxes,” which change the way bicyclists can cross busy intersections safely and be more visible to drivers. “It gets the attention of the driver and the bikers,” said Bob Campbell, Hillsborough County’s Transportation Planning manager. Campbell said bike boxes are different from regular bike lanes because cyclists will move in front of the drivers stopped at the intersection. That way they are more visible to cars. “With a regular bike lane, you’re not getting the front of the car — usually, they’re on the right,” Campbell said. “Here, you’re sitting directly in front of the vehicle where the driver’s eyes are focused to do that.” The county installed bike boxes along two intersections on Citrus Park Drive, at Sheldon Road and Countryway Boulevard.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“Jacksonville ordinance banning panhandling challenged in federal lawsuit” via Drew Dixon of Florida Politics — The ban on panhandling was approved by the Jacksonville City Council last year. But as the Florida Times-Union reported, a nonprofit organization representing the homeless filed a federal lawsuit on Feb. 26 claiming the measure violates the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. “The ordinance is an unconstitutional infringement of the First Amendment on its face and as applied to the plaintiff,” stated the 26-page legal brief filed in the U.S. District Court in the Middle District of Florida in Jacksonville. The Jacksonville City Council pushed for the ordinance for about a year before it was finally approved, as Florida Politics reported in 2022. A growing number of homeless people were perceived to be getting more aggressive in asking for handouts on Jacksonville streets.

“Donna Deegan promotes ‘transparency dashboard’ to give residents a look into Jacksonville projects” via Hannah Holthaus of The Florida Times-Union — Mayor Deegan unrolled the first round of the city’s new ‘transparency dashboards’ Tuesday, calling them an opportunity for residents to engage with local government. The available dashboards currently cover information from Animal Care and Protective Services, permitting, public works, and Deegan’s River City Readers program. Deegan encouraged residents to give the administration feedback on what else they would like to see. “These truly are not an attempt to make us look good,” Deegan said. “Things are as they are right now. So, we are working very hard to make sure that as, hopefully, we continue to meet the goals of this administration, we’re able to show that. But in the meantime, we want you to see in real time what’s happening.”

“Former CEO Aaron Zahn used ‘extreme conditions’ to ‘force’ the Board’s hand” via Nate Monroe of The Florida Times-Union — One of the major data points backing up the case former JEA CEO Zahn made to the Board of Directors in 2019 to justify the need to push the city-owned utility toward third-rail concepts like privatization was a projection that rooftop solar-panel installation would begin to aggressively eat away the agency’s revenue. But Tim Hunt, a JEA analytics expert, told jurors in the fraud trial against Zahn and former CFO Ryan Wannemacher that he viewed those projections as “out of the realm of reality” and “the worst-case scenario presented as fact.” And that dire projection was raising alarm among the workforce, particularly since JEA’s executive team raised the possibility that mass layoffs would have to ensue if the Board didn’t permit them to attempt to market the utility for a potential sale.

“St. Johns Commission OKs divisive waterfront trail” via Noah Hertz of Jacksonville Today — After nearly two hours of public comment and more than 40 speakers, the Commission approved a roughly $1.8 million bid to construct the 8-foot-wide trail connecting two boat ramps on Shore Drive along the Matanzas River. Of the 46 speakers during the public comment period for the trail, 35 opposed it. Several brought petitions with as many as 500 signatures opposing the trail, and one asked for a show of audience hands to conduct an informal vote on the Shore Drive Trail. Most of the raised hands in the chamber opposed it. But, as large as the anti-trail contingent was that day, County Commissioner Christian Whitehurst said he had received many emails from people who support the project. Paramount for Whitehurst and other members of the County Commission was implementing a safer way to enjoy the riverfront walk than in the two-lane street without sidewalks.

“FSU leader Michael Alford thankful, rehabbing and working remotely following neck surgery” via Jim Henry of the Tallahassee Democrat — Alford wanted to be proactive when diagnosed last week with cervical spinal stenosis during treatment in Miami for a neck issue. “I feel like a million bucks,” Alford told the Tallahassee Democrat Tuesday, a week after undergoing neck surgery. “I said, ‘Let’s fix this.’ “Everything is going planned for a better life moving forward.” Alford — Florida State University’s vice president and director of Athletics — is working remotely and receiving physical therapy to improve his neck strength and range of motion. Stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal and can impact mobility and comfort. Alford, 55, said he expects to make a full recovery and return to the office in a few weeks.

“Alabama, Mike Norvell had serious talks. How close was Lane Kiffin to replacing him at FSU?” via Ehsan Kassim of the Tallahassee Democrat — Per an ESPN article Wednesday morning, the Crimson Tide had serious discussions with Norvell to the point that FSU had already tabbed a replacement: Ole Miss head coach Kiffin. “In fact, in the wee hours of that Friday morning, the fear among Florida State officials was that Norvell was close to trading his FSU garnet for Alabama crimson. Sources told ESPN that Florida State was poised to move quickly if that happened and that Kiffin would be a prime candidate.” Norvell never disclosed to ESPN if he was offered the Alabama coaching position but did indicate that the job held serious interest for him.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Collier Commissioner seeks dismissal of public records lawsuit brought by developer” via Laura Layden of the Naples Daily News — Collier Commissioner Bill McDaniel wants a judge to toss out a lawsuit that accuses him of attempting to hide public records. Through his private attorneys, McDaniel has filed a motion to dismiss the case, brought by Naples Golf Development. In the suit, the developer alleges the County Commissioner has refused to turn over public records “in his possession,” particularly ones located on his personal email accounts, and failed to produce the public information it’s sought in a timely, or reasonable way. Naples Golf began targeting McDaniel with public records requests last year.

“Barbara Ford-Coates announces re-election bid for Tax Collector” via the Venice Gondolier — Longtime Sarasota County Tax Collector Ford-Coates has filed to run for re-election for a 10th term in office in November. Ford-Coates was first elected as Tax Collector in 1984 and has been re-elected nine times. “Serving as your Tax Collector has been an honor and an exciting challenge,” Ford-Coates wrote in a news release this week announcing her candidacy. A Democrat, she has won re-election bids four times without a challenger. However, she has two opponents this cycle. Sarasota County Commissioner Mike Moran, a Republican, announced his candidacy for the office and filed the paperwork nearly a year ago. So far, he has raised $88,000 in contributions, according to his campaign finance report filed Dec. 31.

“Sarasota School Board approves for-profit ‘classical’ charter school despite protest” via Steven Walker of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — As members of the public continued to urge Board member Bridget Ziegler to resign, the Sarasota County School Board voted 4-1 to approve a for-profit charter school. The Sarasota Classical Preparatory Academy (SCPA), which wants to open for the 2025-26 school year, is affiliated with the for-profit Charter Schools USA, a fact several public commenters pointed to as reason the Board should deny the application. SCPA estimates its opening enrollment at 885 K-10 students, with hopes to expand to 1,235 K-12 students by its fifth year, according to the school’s 600-page application submitted to the district in December. Board member Tom Edwards, who was outspoken in his opposition to the charter school, cast the dissenting vote.

“North Port Commissioners take first step to erase historic Warm Mineral Springs buildings” via Earle Kimel of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — The only three historic buildings in the city of North Port are at least one vote away from the wrecking ball after the City Commission voted 4-1 to direct staff for a plan to raze the sales and spa buildings and the cyclorama at Warm Mineral Springs and replace them with one minimalistic structure. The Board later voted unanimously to fast-track a plan to develop a trailhead for the Legacy Trail at the 83-acre park and extend a path north to the North Port Connector to the Legacy Trail, which currently ends near the intersection of Price Boulevard and Calera Street.

— TOP OPINION —

“Haley loss another reminder: GOP can’t go back.” via Byron York of the Washington Examiner — What does Haley’s loss in the Republican Presidential Primaries, a loss in which she gathered a substantial amount of votes but was able to win only in Vermont and Washington, D.C., tell us about the Republican Party? Among other things, it tells us, as if we needed another reminder, that the GOP cannot return to the days of leaders like George W. Bush, John McCain, Mitt Romney, and Paul Ryan. Some loyal Republican voters have always been uneasy about the style of Trump. They felt more comfortable in the GOP world of Bush, McCain, Romney, and Ryan. Even when Trump won the 2016 Republican nomination and then the presidency, they expressed reservations about his tone, his manner, or the “drama” that surrounded him. Trump supporters often mocked those concerns, suggesting that those Republicans were more worried about “mean tweets” than the fate of the nation. But the concerns were real. In 2024, a lot of those voters were attracted to the candidacy of Haley. She wasn’t entirely old-style — she ran for Governor of South Carolina as a Tea Party candidate. But for some Republicans, Haley promised a return to the orderliness of the older Republican Party.

— OPINIONS —

“The 2020 Election is back” via Nate Cohn of The New York Times — On paper, Biden ought to be the favorite. He’s an incumbent President running for re-election against the backdrop of a healthy enough economy and against an opponent accused of multiple federal crimes. Yet according to the polls, Trump begins the General Election campaign in the lead. Over the last four months, he has led nearly every poll in Michigan, Nevada, Arizona and Georgia, along with the states he carried in 2020 — enough to give him 283 electoral votes and the presidency. He also leads in most national polls over the last month, including a New York Times/Siena College poll last weekend. This is not what many expected from a Biden-Trump rematch, especially after Democrats were resilient in the Midterms and excelled in Special Elections by campaigning on issues like democracy and abortion. But Trump is winning anyway, and there’s a simple reason: Biden is very unpopular.

“Rather than cast blame, Biden should tout what he’s done to make markets better” via Peter Coy of The New York Times — There are good ways and bad ways to fight inflation. One of the bad ways, I think, is to put the blame on price gouging and corporate greed, as Biden has done on numerous occasions. Gouging isn’t a good umbrella term for price increases of all kinds. You actually want the price of something to go up when there’s a long-term imbalance of supply and demand. The high price signals to suppliers that they should produce more of the thing and to buyers that they should consume less of it. Biden can’t afford to blow off public opinion, so he’s amping up the populism. Which I understand. He has made a big deal of shrinkflation, which is shrinking a product while keeping the price the same. He did a whole indignant video on shrinkflation timed for the Super Bowl.

“It’s not just that Biden is old” via Mark Leibovich of The Atlantic — We were reminded yet again this past weekend that Biden might be in deep electoral trouble. Once again, hands were wrung. This latest bout of alarm was occasioned by a poll showing that only 23% of Democratic Primary voters said they were enthusiastic about Biden’s candidacy. 45% said Biden should not be the party’s nominee. And Trump led by five points in a head-to-head matchup. Yes, voters overwhelmingly believe that Biden is too old to be running for another term. The White House has vigorously challenged the premise — to no avail. Large majorities of Americans don’t want to see Trump back in the White House. Many are terrified at the prospect — with extremely good reason. Biden has put them in an incredibly dangerous position. But the more unpopular Biden becomes, the more stubborn he appears.

“For abuse at Florida’s Dozier school, no sum — not even $20 million — can compensate” via the Miami Herald editorial board — The state Senate unanimously approved a plan Monday to compensate the survivors of the waking nightmare known as Florida’s Dozier School for Boys. Compensate? Somehow that seems like an inadequate concept in a case where children in a state-run (now long closed) reform school were raped, beaten and tortured — abuse that went on for decades, from 1940 to 1975. Some kids simply didn’t make it out alive. How exactly do we go about compensating for that? Dozier is notorious, and rightfully so. As the abuse there became widely known, it caused international shock. A Pulitzer Prize-winning book was written by author Colson Whitehead about the “White House Boys” — a reference to the white house on school property where the abuse often took place. They’ve been traveling to Tallahassee for years trying to get the state to fully own up to the wrongs perpetuated in its name.

“Sen. Debbie Mayfield: An outgoing lawmaker extols Florida’s conservative approach” via the Tallahassee Democrat — Conservative principles demanded by Floridians had served as a North Star for leaders in Tallahassee for more than two decades and would be tested under the critical eye of the corporate media and the American people. Soon, they would learn what more than 23 million Floridians already knew: Florida is, and will continue to be, a beacon of freedom and opportunity here at home and around the world. As my time in Tallahassee comes to an end, I’m confident Florida will continue to be a beacon of freedom and opportunity. It has been the honor of my life to serve alongside a group of men and women — inspired by the hardworking families and business owners — standing up for the shared conservative values that continue to fortify the foundation of freedom and opportunity found only in the great state of Florida.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

 

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— ALOE —

“Hollywood stars invoke ‘Oppenheimer’ in anti-nukes campaign ahead of Oscars” via Steve Gorman of Reuters — A U.S.-based disarmament organization has seized on public attention surrounding the Academy Awards-nominated film “Oppenheimer” and enlisted support from Hollywood stars for a pre-Oscars campaign calling for a global end to nuclear weapons. The Washington-based Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), a nonprofit think tank, kicked off the effort on Wednesday with an open letter signed by an array of celebrities and activists. The same letter, which states: “These weapons of war must be abolished before they abolish us,” is to be published as a full-page advertisement on Thursday in the Los Angeles Times. It cites the anti-war themes raised by “Oppenheimer,” the Christopher Nolan-directed biopic about theoretical physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, who led the U.S. development of the first atomic bomb during World War II and went on to warn of its threat to humanity.

“Vince McMahon sells $412 million worth of stock in WWE parent company TKO” via Todd Spangler of Variety — McMahon, the founder of WWE who resigned from the Board of TKO Group earlier this year amid sexual assault allegations against him, filed to sell $411.95 million worth of TKO stock. McMahon’s sale comprised 5.35 million shares of TKO, per an SEC filing Monday. That came after he sold 8.4 million shares of Class A common stock in TKO — worth $670.3 million — last November. As of the end of 2023, McMahon had owned 20.35 million shares of TKO Group’s Class A shares, meaning he still owns about 15 million shares. He was the longtime leader of WWE before its September 2023 merger with Endeavor-owned UFC.

“‘Sopranos’ booth, worn and decaying 17 years after last scene, sells for $82K” via Kyle Melnick of The Washington Post — Tony Soprano was last seen eating onion rings and listening to “Don’t Stop Believin’” while sitting in a red restaurant booth. TV sets across the world abruptly cut to black, and fans of “The Sopranos” have since debated the mafia boss’s fate. The scene became so well-known that the booth turned into a tourist attraction at a Bloomfield, New Jersey, restaurant. Since 2007, fans have visited Holsten’s, an ice cream shop where HBO filmed the final scene, to snack on onion rings while sitting in the famous booth. But on Monday, Holsten’s employees and customers saw their time with the booth fade to black. The booth was on the brink of breaking apart, co-owner Christopher Carley said, so Holsten’s auctioned it on eBay. After 238 bids, the booth sold for $82,600.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Belated best wishes to Rep. Taylor Michael Yarkosky. Celebrating today are former Rep. Joe Geller, our colleague Rochelle Koff, and Lindsey Nickel.

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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.