FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 23, 2024
CONTACT
Joey Arellano
Acting Communications Director
House Democratic Office
(850) 717-4943
Florida House Democrats’ Inaugural Hearing Reveals Detrimental Impact of Harmful Policy Proposals on Floridians
TAMPA, Fla. – Yesterday, Florida House Democrats hosted the inaugural “Freedom to Be Heard” summer field hearing in the Tampa Bay region. This hearing provided an opportunity for legislators to hear directly from Floridians who were shut out from the legislative process and were unable to voice their concerns during the 2024 Legislative Session. During the hearing, Floridians discussed how Republican efforts to prioritize culture wars were not only harmful for our state, but also distract lawmakers from addressing critical issues impacting Florida’s families, including the skyrocketing housing and property insurance costs, safe access to abortions, and more.
This official Caucus hearing followed a similar format to legislative committee meetings. It was presided by Leader Fentrice Driskell (D-Tampa) and was joined by Democratic Tampa Bay region Representatives Dianne Hart (D-Tampa), Lindsay Cross (D-St. Petersburg), Michele K. Rayner (D-St. Petersburg), and Susan L. Valdés (D-Tampa). Tampa Bay region community members, including teachers, students, parents, activists, and business leaders all shared their personal stories and concerns.
Those who were unable to attend the live hearing can replay it via The Florida Channel at https://thefloridachannel.org/videos/7-22-24-house-democratic-caucus-summer-field-hearing/.
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