The Florida 2015 Legislative Session is underway. During the next 60 days, officials will decide and debate, on close to the 1,100 bills filed according to Florida Politics.com.
“This legislative session, lawmakers will reexamine some issues from last year as well as introduce new ones. GreatFlorida Insurance wants to keep our agents and customers updated on the issues that are important to you,” said Dustyn Shroff, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance.
Some of the hotly contested issues on the agenda this session include the following:
Budget-Florida law requires an annual state budget passed every year. Governor Rick Scott’s proposed budget includes $673 million in tax cuts. He wants to see reductions in cell phone and cable and satellite TV bills as well as manufacturing and machinery and equipment. He also wants to eliminate sales tax on college text books and increase a corporate tax exemption.
Water and Land-Last year, 75 percent of Florida voters said they want to put $1 billion towards water and land conservation projects. Lawmakers must decide which projects get that money. Proposed projects include: Everglades clean-up, stormwater and land acquisitions and beach restoration.
Medicaid- During the previous legislative sessions, there has been a bid for Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act. Many are waiting to see if it gets anywhere this time around.
Marijuana-A revised medical marijuana amendment has been proposed to ease the suffering of those with chronic illnesses such as ALS and cancer.
Guns-After the November 20, shooting at Florida State University, there is renewed interest to repeal the ban of guns on campus. Most university presidents across Florida are opposed to the bill.
Gambling-This a battle between gambling resort owners and those who want to maintain Florida’s family friendly attractions. The state’s five year, $ 1 billion casino compact with the Seminole tribe expires this year. Lawmakers must decide if they want to expand gambling beyond tribal reservations.
Insurance-Some are pushing for statewide insurance requirements and background checks for ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft. These companies assert they are tech firms and not taxi services.
Other bills for consideration include:
Repeal capital punishment
Necessitate greyhound tracks to report dog injuries to the state
Regulate the use of remote controlled drones
Provide financial education and job training for people with developmental disabilities
Legalize 64 oz. beer containers, or growlers
Permit grocery and drug stores to sell hard liquor
GreatFlorida Insurance has been serving Florida since 1991. Dedicated to helping Floridians make informed decisions about their insurance, we offer professional service and affordable insurance. GreatFlorida Insurance specializes in health insurance, auto insurance, homeowner’s insurance, boat insurance, motorcycle insurance, business insurance, renters insurance and umbrella insurance.
