Florida House Democratic leaders issued the following statements in response to Governor DeSantis signing the Special Session bills:
“The politicization of the vaccine continues. It’s a disgrace the governor chooses to call a symbol of technological and medical advancement “the jab” to continue scaring people and confusing them about the effectiveness of the vaccine. We need to continue listening to public health and medical experts to get over this pandemic and truly let Floridians prosper,” said Leader Bobby DuBose (D-Ft. Lauderdale).
“The Special Session to promote the DeSantis presidential campaign has ended and he’s signed the bills into law. Floridians are less safe and we have set public health back generations. This political stunt further divides Florida at a time when we needed to pull together to literally save our neighbors’ lives. Laissez-faire epidemiology and outright disinformation have contributed to Florida’s horrific death toll, and it’s shameful that some choose to politicize an epidemic for their own ambition,” said Co-Leader Evan Jenne (D-Hollywood).
“Congratulations, we now have the DeSantis Ambition Tax signed into law. Florida’s businesses will now have to cover the costs of the fines and fees assessed as a consequence for employer’s who make informed decisions that keeps their selves, customers, and employees safe. This is extremely counterproductive. We should be enabling businesses to do whatever they need to do to be successful,” said Representative Ramon Alexander (D-Tallahassee).
“Today, the Governor and GOP leaders celebrated the creation of the DeSantis Ambition Tax, which will cost Florida businesses millions of dollars and make everyone less safe.
They have denied Florida businesses the ability to protect themselves, their workers, and their customers. This will endanger us, our visitors, our economy, and our reputation as a safe place to bring your family. Governor DeSantis is robbing Floridians of the freedom to be healthy, prosperous, and safe,” Policy Chair Representative Fentrice Driskell (D- Tampa).
