Today State Senator Gary Farmer called for the State Legislature to override Governor DeSantis’ veto of SB 274 related to juvenile diversion program expunctions. The full text of his letter to the Senate President can be found below:
Mr. President,
I hope that this letter finds you well. As you are aware, earlier this week Governor DeSantis vetoed SB 274 relating to juvenile diversion programs. As you are also aware, this bill passed unanimously through both chambers of the Florida Legislature. As there was not a single voice in dissent of this bill, I believe that the matter is one which should be considered for a veto override at the onset of the 2022 Legislative Session.
As a proud co-sponsor of this bill, I believe that the Governor’s expressed understanding of the measure is inaccurate at best. Contrary to statements made by the Governor and his staff, this bill would not expand the types of offenses eligible for expungement, nor would it have any impact on the number of sexual offenders released from custody. Additionally SB 274 does not expand the ability of a judge allow for the expungement of particularly heinous crimes. This bill simply provides a better pathway to success and community involvement for our state’s at-risk youth, and every single legislator knew these facts when they voted for the bill.
Understanding the profound positive impact that SB 274 would have on our communities, the inaccuracy of negative claims about the bill, and its unanimous approval by the both chambers, I would ask you to please consider a veto override vote when we return to the Senate Chamber.
Thank you for your consideration,
State Senator Gary M. Farmer Jr.
