Archive for April, 2012
« Previous EntriesBudget 2012-2013 Update
Wednesday, April 25th, 2012This Session my colleagues and I were presented with the difficult task of creating a balanced budget while facing a $1.8 Billion shortfall. Unlike the Federal Government, the Florida Legislature is Constitutionally obligated to pass a balanced budget. Thankfully this year the shortfall was smaller compared to the shortfall of $4.6 Billion that we faced [...]
Education Update
Wednesday, April 25th, 2012My commitment to provide all students in Florida the opportunity to earn a world-class education did not waver during the difficult economic times facing our state. I am proud that we continue to place a high priority on education, and increased PreK-12 education funding by $1.1 billion this year. This was one of the Governor’s [...]
Florida Polytechnic (SB 1994: Higher Education)
Wednesday, April 25th, 2012This past session, Florida Polytechnic was given legislative approval through SB 1994. This was a highly debated topic in both Chambers. Creating a Polytechnic University is extremely important to our state. The State University System remains at a very low level for STEM graduates. STEM programs are essential for job creation. There is no better [...]
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Reform
Wednesday, April 25th, 2012Accident fraud is a growing problem in Florida. This year, in conjunction with the Senate and the Governor, we reformed Florida’s Personal Injury Protection law to address major cost drivers in the current No-Fault motor vehicle insurance system. This legislation will help to ensure Floridians aren’t picking up the cost of these unscrupulous actors and [...]
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