Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.

Jim RosicaOctober 31, 2016

A panel of state economists haven’t been able to figure out how much the Voting Restoration Amendment would cost the state. The proposed change to the state constitution would automatically return voting rights to felons who have completed their sentences. The Financial Impact Estimating Conference is tasked with estimating costs of constitutional amendments. This one gave them a struggle. “It is probable […]

Michael MolineOctober 17, 2016

A state panel struggled Monday to figure out a price tag for the proposed Florida Voter Restoration Amendment, which would automatically restore voting rights to felons who have completed their sentences. The Financial Impact Estimating Conference heard testimony from a variety of state criminal justice agencies indicating it might be hard to nail down what the […]

Jim RosicaMay 24, 2016

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A former state Senator has signed on to represent the backers of a proposed constitutional amendment on gambling. Florida Supreme Court records show Miami attorney Dan Gelber filed a notice of appearance on behalf of Voters In Charge, the committee behind the amendment. Gelber, 55, also was Democratic leader when he served in the House and unsuccessfully […]

Jim RosicaMay 19, 2016

It’s not clear whether a proposed gambling-control amendment will help or hinder the state’s finances. A panel of state economists stalemated this week on the financial impact of the Voter Control of Gambling amendment. The Financial Impact Estimating Conference’s final report was hand-delivered to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of State Ken Detzner on Thursday. A summary reads: “The […]

Jim RosicaApril 27, 2016

If it’s approved, would a proposed constitutional amendment outlaw currently legal kinds of gambling? A panel of state economic analysts debated the question on Tuesday. The Financial Impact Estimating Conference, a slate of economists for the Legislature and executive branches, held a public workshop in Tallahassee on the Voter Control of Gambling amendment. It would “ensure that Florida […]

Ryan RayNovember 23, 2015

A panel of state economists and analysts estimated Monday one of two dueling ballot initiatives dealing with solar energy voters may consider on the November 2016 elections will not have any impact on state spending should it pass. The Financial Impact Estimating Conference, a slate of economists for the Legislature and executive branch, held a […]

Jim RosicaOctober 23, 2015

If Florida ever approves medical marijuana for sale in the state, expect to pay tax on it. Medical pot is “tangible personal property” that is “subject to sales and use tax,” a state economics panel has found. “Annual state and local government sales tax revenues could increase by an estimated $67 million after taking into account […]

Jim RosicaOctober 21, 2015

The Florida Supreme Court has ordered oral argument for its review of a proposed constitutional amendment allowing medical marijuana. The court posted the order to its website Wednesday; the order was signed Tuesday. Argument was scheduled for 9 a.m., Dec. 8. The court ordered briefs by Oct. 30 and “answer” briefs by Nov. 9. Attorney General Pam Bondi had formally asked for the review to […]

Bruce RitchieApril 19, 2015

Can we find a way to tax the sunshine? That seemed to be the underlying issue recently when state analysts were trying to determine the potential cost of a proposed constitutional amendment that promotes solar energy. Representatives of utilities, cities and counties warned the analysts that increased use of solar energy could mean the loss […]

Bruce RitchieApril 19, 2015

Can we find a way to tax the sunshine? That seemed to be the underlying issue recently when state analysts were trying to determine the potential cost of a proposed constitutional amendment that promotes solar energy. Representatives of utilities, cities and counties warned the analysts that increased use of solar energy could mean the loss […]

Tag: Financial Impact Estimating Conference

Cost of Voting Restoration Amendment? Experts unsure

Panel finds no easy answers on costs of voter rights restoration

Dan Gelber will represent anti-gambling amendment

Economists uncertain of gambling amendment’s effect

Economists puzzle over proposed gambling amendment

State economists say “Smart Solar” amendment unlikely to have fiscal impact

State panel: Medical pot can be taxed

Supreme Court orders oral argument for medical pot amendment

Bruce Ritchie: Is there a fair way to tax sunshine?

Bruce Ritchie: Is there a fair way to tax sunshine?