Statement from Governor Rick Scott on House Passage of HB 359

Governor Rick Scott today issued the following statement after the Florida House of Representatives unanimously voted in support of HB 359. This bill advances Governor Scott’s proposal to strictly prohibit the State of Florida, including all state agencies, from investing in any company that is doing business with Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro’s oppressive government. See Governor Scott’s announcement of this proposal HERE.
“Florida is proud to be an incredible melting pot and home to a vibrant Venezuelan population. But sadly, in recent years, we’ve seen the conditions and situation in Venezuela deteriorate because of a brutal dictator. The Maduro regime is hurting and oppressing Venezuelan families more and more each day and I have been absolutely clear that the State of Florida will not stand for it. Last year, I proposed, and the entire Florida Cabinet supported, a ban on state investments benefitting the Maduro regime. Today, I am proud that the Florida House of Representatives voted unanimously in support of my proposal that prohibits all state agencies from investing in the oppressive Venezuelan government. I’d like to thank House Speaker Richard Corcoran, House Speaker pro tempore Jeanette Nuñez, Representative Manny Diaz and all the members who voted for this important legislation that recognizes the significant role Florida plays globally. I look forward to the Senate continuing to advance this bill and signing it into law soon.” – Governor Rick Scott