Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.

Staff ReportsMay 11, 2017

Vance Aloupis’ second finance report shows a fundraising slowdown to $31,150 in April from just over $103,000 in March. But the Miami Republican, vying to replace the term-limited Mike Bileca in House District 115, still eclipses the competition for the seat, which has raised a total of $250 among three candidates. All of Aloupis’ reported contributions for April […]

Jenna Buzzacco-FoersterMay 10, 2017

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Gov. Rick Scott signed into law Tuesday a bill that creates statewide regulations for ride-booking companies, like Uber and Lyft. “I’m proud to sign this legislation today to make it easier for ridesharing companies to thrive in Florida and help ensure the safety of our families,” said Scott in a statement. “Florida is one of […]

Jim RosicaMay 10, 2017

Both citing a “lack of transparency,” the heads of the League of Women Voters of Florida and the First Amendment Foundation are calling for Gov. Rick Scott to veto the just-passed state budget for 2017-18. But with the House of Representatives passing the budget 98-14 and the Senate approving 34-4 on Monday, there are enough […]

Staff ReportsMay 9, 2017

One of 11 bills signed into law Tuesday by Gov. Rick Scott expands use of therapy animals in court proceedings involving child abuse, abandonment, and neglect. “This legislation will help children and individuals with unique abilities in our state as they face some of the most challenging times in their life,” Scott said in a […]

Staff ReportsMay 9, 2017

Gov. Rick Scott signed legislation Tuesday pledging $800 million in bonds toward Senate President Joe Negron’s signature project — a $1.5 billion plan to restore Lake Okeechobee and the Everglades by building a reservoir south of the lake. Scott had signaled his intention to sign the legislation earlier in the week, calling Everglades restoration “a […]

Peter SchorschMay 9, 2017

Florida Realtors really want you to know what a successful Legislative Session looks like. To celebrate the close of a “triumphant” 2017 Session – including passage of the state’s $82.4 billion budget – Florida Realtors released a recap of its major victories, bills and budgetary items of interest to real estate professionals statewide. Florida Realtors […]

Jenna Buzzacco-FoersterMay 9, 2017

Gov. Rick Scott took a swing at state lawmakers, saying the Legislature turned its back on economic incentive deals that have helped Florida “out compete … top competitors for important jobs.” The Naples Republican released a scathing statement Tuesday, scolding legislative leaders for passing a budget that “was done largely behind closed doors.” Scott said […]

Gary FineoutMay 9, 2017

Nearly a decade after the Great Recession, Florida may finally restore one of its main programs that aids students headed to college. The state Legislature late Monday approved an overhaul of the state’s higher education system that is intended to lift schools in the Sunshine State into the ranks of elite counterparts. A key part […]

Michael MolineMay 9, 2017

Jacksonville House member Jay Fant announced for state Attorney General Tuesday, promising to fight for the Constitution — especially the First and Second amendments — and against “big government.” Fant said during a kickoff news conference in the state Capitol that “fighting big government, fighting for the Constitution, and fighting for free enterprise” were what […]

Jenna Buzzacco-FoersterMay 9, 2017

Senate President Joe Negron hasn’t closed the door to a special session to tackle medical marijuana. The Stuart Republican said Monday he thinks the Legislature has a responsibility to be involved in the implementation of the 2016 medical marijuana, and said the Senate would discuss its options with the House and Gov. Rick Scott. His […]

Influence

Miami Republican Vance Aloupis hoists $31,150 in April

Governor signs landmark ride-sharing legislation into law

‘Lack of transparency’ causes calls for Rick Scott budget veto

New law expands use of therapy animals for children facing court proceedings

Rick Scott signs SB 10, the Lake Okeechobee restoration plan, into law

Florida Realtors legislative recap shows what successful Session looks like

Rick Scott says he will make veto decision ‘based on what’s best’ for Florida families

Florida may restore college aid lost during Great Recession

Jax House member Jay Fant launches campaign for Attorney General

Joe Negron open to special session on medical marijuana