Florida Politics - Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government.

Jim RosicaMarch 23, 2017

Three Legislative Sessions later, the Senate finally passed a bill to allow retailers to sell hard liquor in the same store as other goods. Senators approved the “whiskey and Wheaties” legislation (SB 106) on a 21-17 vote after a debate in which one senator said it would “kill … kids.” Sen. Bill Galvano, the Bradenton Republican who first filed […]

Jenna Buzzacco-FoersterMarch 22, 2017

Sen. Rob Bradley indicated he is willing to support opening up the medical marijuana market more than he first proposed, but continues to believe vertical integration is the right system for Florida. Bradley, an Orange Park Republican, filed one of five medical marijuana implementing bills this Legislative Session. His proposal (SB 406) would, among other […]

Guest AuthorMarch 10, 2017

We have all seen the recent stories about Florida’s job boom and our strengthening economy. It is undeniable that we are headed in the right direction. As my colleagues and I prepare for the coming legislative session, it is essential that we focus on the future of our economy. Recently, my colleagues in the House […]

Staff ReportsMarch 5, 2017

Think of it as the last hurrah before the 2017 Legislative Session. Members of the House and Senate can’t raise money while the Legislature is session, putting a 60-day pause on fundraising each year. And while that may be good news for their most loyal contributors’ pocketbooks, it does mean you can expect a mad […]

A.G. GancarskiFebruary 21, 2017

On Tuesday, the Florida Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee heard from the Agency for State Technology. The AST, legislated into existence in 2014, appears on the outside to be in flux. A recent audit of the AST hammered it for a lack of internal controls. Meanwhile, CIO Jason Allison is on his way out the […]

Peter SchorschFebruary 19, 2017

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Clearwater Republican Ed Hooper is assembling an impressive number of high-profile state lawmakers for a Tallahassee reception next month. Hooper, a former state representative, is seeking the open Senate District 16 seat currently held by Jack Latvala. Hooper’s campaign fundraiser will be Monday, March 6, from 2:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. at the Governors Club, 202 South Adams […]

Guest AuthorFebruary 16, 2017

Over the last few weeks, South Florida has seen criticism regarding the process used by the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) to award a contract to operate and maintain the South Florida Tri-Rail commuter rail system to Herzog Transit Services, Inc. As your elected representative, I made it my personal mission to delve into […]

A.G. GancarskiFebruary 10, 2017

Voters in Miami-Dade County may vote for a sheriff soon, if a joint resolution filed in the House by Jason Fischer and the Senate by Frank Artiles becomes law. HJR 721/SJR 134 would make the Sheriff of Miami-Dade a Constitutional officer. Currently, the position is appointed by the executive branch, foreclosing the voters’ right to decide their chief […]

Jim RosicaFebruary 8, 2017

Gov. Rick Scott’s favored economic incentive program – the Quick Action Closing Fund (QAC) – is now losing money, the Legislature’s chief economist told a Senate panel Wednesday. The QAC is a pot of cash that Scott can draw up to $2 million from without legislative approval to entice businesses to the state. But though […]

Mitch PerryJanuary 5, 2017

Dwight Bullard has released key parts of his platform for Florida Democratic Chair, and it includes a bold proclamation to replace at least half of its fundraising with donors who give less than $100 annually. The 39-year-old former state legislator says that uniting the party is essential to his agenda. “Inspiring our folks across Florida, awakening […]

Tag: Frank Artiles

Senate passes ‘whiskey & Wheaties’ bill

Senate begins discussion of medical marijuana implementing legislation

Bryan Avila: Paving the way for Florida’s 5G future

Final push for fundraising before 2017 Session kicks off

Agency for State Technology gets softballs in Senate committee

Impressive roster of GOP leaders line up for Ed Hooper fundraiser

Frank Artiles: A review of the facts — SFRTA gets it right

Joint resolution filed to make Miami-Dade sheriff an elected office

Rick Scott’s favorite business incentive is losing money, Senate hears

Dwight Bullard lays out plans to lead Florida Democratic Party