A bill commemorating the one hundredth year of women’s voting rights sponsored by Senator Lauren Book (D-32) was Friday signed by Governor DeSantis. Senate Bill 1306 creates a Women’s Suffrage Centennial Committee to ensure a suitable statewide observance of the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage.
“The essential right to vote gives Americans a voice and a choice in the way our government is run and the way we live our lives,” says Senator Book. “I am proud of our Legislature and Governor DeSantis for recognizing this watershed moment in the civil rights movement and the ongoing fight for women’s equality.”
The committee formed by Book’s bill will encourage and organize activities that expand understanding and appropriation of suffrage, and coordinate with the Department of Education and Department of State with developing public awareness and education materials. Additionally, the committee may establish a volunteer youth working group to advise the committee in fulfilling its duties.
“The League of Women Voters of Florida is very appreciative of Senator Book for putting forth this wonderful bill,” says Florida League of Women Voters President Patricia Brigham. “We are very excited that Governor DeSantis has signed it into law and look forward to participating in the Women’s Suffrage Centennial Commission. It truly is historic that we are reaching the 100 year anniversary. The League of Women Voters will continue to fight for the rights of all eligible voters.”
“This bill is so important, especially for the young women of today, to know and appreciate the great strides and opportunities provided by the dedication of earlier generations,” says House companion sponsor Representative Amber Mariano (R-Hudson). “I am so proud to be a part of this celebration of such a monumental moment in our nation’s history.”
About Senator Lauren Book
Senator Lauren Book, M.S. Ed, is an internationally respected and renowned child advocate, former classroom teacher and best-selling author. She represents the Broward County-based District 32 in the Florida Senate, and was elected to serve in 2016. Following her advocacy in the wake of the Parkland massacre, Senator Book was appointed to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Commission to investigate mass shootings and recommend policy to reduce the possibility of future such tragedies. In her capacity as Founder and CEO of Florida-based nonprofit Lauren’s Kids, Book works tirelessly to prevent child sexual abuse and help survivors heal, and has been named a PEOPLE All-Star Among Us, GLAMOUR Woman of the Year, and L’Oreal Woman of Worth. She is the recipient of a Congressional Medal of Merit for her tireless work to protect childhood and sits on the Florida Children’s Cabinet. She is an EMMY and Gracie Award-winning television producer and has been featured by national media outlets including Newsweek, NPR, Cosmopolitan Magazine, the Huffington Post, USA Today and many more.
