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First Lady Casey DeSantis Unveils Hope Florida Resources for Law Enforcement 

Posted on

For Immediate Release: June 5, 2024
Contact: Governor’s Press Office, (850) 717-9282, [email protected]

First Lady Casey DeSantis Unveils Hope Florida Resources for Law Enforcement 

Florida law enforcement will be able to offer help and hope to Floridians through Hope Florida.

Hope Card 1 Hope Card 2

Click here to view additional Hope Florida resources.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis hosted a meeting with over 100 sheriffs, police chiefs, and other law enforcement officials from across the state to highlight new resources for officers to utilize to direct individuals to Hope Florida. This summer, law enforcement agencies, departments, and offices will also receive personnel training on connecting those in need with a Hope Florida Navigator through the Hope Line.

“Florida law enforcement work tirelessly to protect Floridians,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “Today, we are equipping them with resources to do even more good by referring those in need to Hope Florida.”

“A common denominator among many who answered the call to become a law enforcement officer is a strong desire to help people,” said Executive Director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Dave Kerner. “We at the Florida Highway Patrol are honored to work directly with First Lady Casey DeSantis, through Hope Florida, to amplify our community and faith institutions and uplift those in need. Through the distribution of the Hope Florida resource cards, law enforcement officers across the state will have the ability to bridge this gap by connecting those in need of hope to resources through the help of Hope Navigators.”

Hope Florida utilizes Hope Navigators to guide Floridians on an individualized path to prosperity and economic independence by focusing on community collaboration between the private sector, faith-based communities, nonprofits, and government entities. This first-of-its-kind program brings together different parts of the community to maximize support and uncover new opportunities for those going through difficult times. Hope Navigators help individuals identify their needs, develop long-term goals, map out a path forward, and work to ensure all sectors of the community have a ‘seat at the table’ to be part of a lasting solution.

Since Hope Florida’s launch, nearly 30,000 Floridians have reduced or are no longer reliant on government assistance, which is estimated to save the State of Florida nearly $800 million over 10 years. Hope Florida serves families, foster youth, veterans, individuals with unique abilities, vulnerable women, those facing crisis, and other Floridians in need.

“Law enforcement officers encounter individuals and families in some of their most challenging moments,” said Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris. “Under the leadership of First Lady Casey DeSantis, we are thrilled to be able to provide officers with additional resources that they can use to help connect individuals to the Hope Florida program. Our Hope Navigators stand ready to assist and provide support as individuals and families work to overcome barriers to success.”

Floridians who need support can connect with Hope Florida by visiting www.HopeFlorida.com or calling the Hope Line (850-300-HOPE).

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BREAKING: Rick Scott Votes Against Protecting Access to Contraception

Posted on

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 5, 2024

MEDIA CONTACT

[email protected]

BREAKING: Rick Scott Votes Against Protecting Access to Contraception

Tallahassee, FL — Today, Rick Scott voted against the Right to Contraception Act — bipartisan legislation to codify Americans’ right to access contraception under federal law, making clear that he will continue his dangerous push to rip away women’s rights to make their own personal medical decisions.

“Rick Scott’s extreme anti-choice agenda is clear: he wants to restrict access to birth control and ban abortion nationwide. Floridians will remember Scott’s attacks on reproductive freedom and hold him accountable at the ballot box, said Florida Democratic Party spokesperson Alex Wood.

Scott has a long record attacking contraception including supporting employers’ immunity in denying coverage for contraception and endorsing anti-choice extremists who want to restrict birth control access. Last week, Scott received an A+ rating from an extreme anti-choice group which opposes IVF and contraception and wants to ban abortion at conception.

Here’s what to know about Scott’s “100% pro-life” record:

 

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Upcoming Public Meeting for Silver Springs Boulevard (S.R. 40)

Posted on

For Immediate Release
June 5, 2024

Contact: Public Information Office
386-943-5593

[email protected]

 

Upcoming Public Meeting for Silver Springs Boulevard (S.R. 40)

Maintenance Resurfacing
Meeting will be offered in person and online

 

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will hold a public meeting regarding project plans to resurface Silver Springs Boulevard (State Road (S.R.) 40) from Pine Avenue (U.S. 441/U.S. 301) to NE 25thh Avenue (FPID No. 450952-1) and from NE 25th Avenue to NE 64th Avenue (FPID No. 4509521-1) in Ocala on Thursday, June 13, at 5:30 p.m.

 

The purpose of these projects is to maintain the pavement and extend the life of the existing roadway and upgrade curb ramps to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.

The Department is offering multiple ways for the community to participate in the meeting. All participants, regardless of platform they choose, will participate in the same live meeting.

FDOT encourages community involvement and is offering this public meeting in a hybrid format to provide more ways to participate. All attendees, regardless of which platform they choose, will receive the same information.

In-Person Open House Option: Participants may attend in person by going to the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala, FL 34475 anytime between 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. to view a looping presentation and project displays, speak with project team members, and submit comments or questions. If attending in person, please remember to follow all safety and sanitation guidelines. If you are feeling unwell, please consider attending the meeting virtually.

Virtual Option: Interested persons may join over the Internet from a computer, tablet or mobile device at 5:30 p.m. For this option, advance registration is required by visiting bit.ly/3xtfSok. Once registered, participants will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting online. If using a mobile device, use the GoToWebinar app to be able to view the presentation and submit comments. If joining online, please allow adequate time to log in to view the presentation in its entirety.

Those who cannot attend the meeting may view all meeting materials, including the presentation, and provide comment through the projects’ websites at www.cflroads.com/project/450952-1 or www.cflroads.com/project/450951-1. You may also contact FDOT Project Manager Randy Turner (450952-1) directly by phone at 386-943-5207 or email at [email protected], or FDOT Project Manager Ty Garner (450951-1) directly by phone at 386-943-5299 or email at [email protected].

 

Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status. Persons wishing to express their concerns relative to FDOT compliance with Title VI may do so by contacting Melissa McKinney, FDOT District Five Title VI Coordinator, at [email protected].

Persons who require accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or persons who require translation services (free of charge) should contact Carolyn Fitzwilliam at 386-943-5215 or [email protected] at least seven (7) days prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact us by using the Florida Relay Service, 1-800-955-8771 (TDD) or 1-800-955-8770 (Voice).

Media inquiries should be directed to the FDOT District Five Public Information Office at [email protected] or by phone at 386-943-5593.

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Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez Highlights Water Safety for Floridians

Posted on

For Immediate Release: June 5, 2024
Contact: Governor’s Press Office, (850) 717-9282, [email protected]

Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez Highlights Water Safety for Floridians

ORMOND BEACH, Fla.—Today, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, Secretary of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) Shevaun Harris, State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, and Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director Taylor Hatch highlighted resources, education, and tips for water safety and drowning prevention.

“Governor Ron DeSantis and I know that Florida is the best place to be year-round, but especially in the summer,” said Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez. “As Floridians and their families go outdoors to enjoy all that the Sunshine State has to offer, we want to make sure they do it in a way that is safe and enjoyable. As a result, it’s important that we bring awareness to water safety and share things that families can do to prevent drowning and water-related injuries.”

“The Department of Children and Families is committed to ensuring the well-being of all children and families and as we kick off a fun summer season, it is vital that children, parents, and caregivers exercise safe swimming practices,” said DCF Secretary Shevaun Harris. “Sadly, we continue to see an increase in the number of preventable drownings across our state, and this summer and all year long, DCF is encouraging all Floridians to ensure that water safety measures are in place near any bodies of water.”

Drowning can be prevented. The State of Florida collaborates with numerous state and local partners to provide education, tips, and resources on water safety and drowning prevention.

Here are some important steps you can take to ensure safety around the water:

  • Always supervise children in and around water.
  • Consider participating in swim lessons.
  • Learn CPR and first aid.
  • Ensure that pool barriers and gates meet state law requirements.
  • Follow life jacket laws and make sure life jackets are properly fitted.
  • Check local conditions, such as weather, rip tides, and marine life before heading out to the water.

“Drowning can be silent and happen in the amount of time it takes to check a text on your phone,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo. “By designating a Water Watcher and using barriers such as a fence, you can protect your children while safely enjoying activities at the pool and beach this summer.”

“Florida’s natural climate creates many enjoyable recreational opportunities centered around water, and that is why today’s event is critical to amplifying the message of water safety for all Floridians,” said Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director Taylor Hatch. “Some individuals with disabilities, such as those with autism spectrum disorder, are attracted to water’s sensory impact. Therefore, it’s critical to share proven steps that we can all take to promote water safety, minimize risk, and encourage enjoyable experiences.”

In 2024, 46 children have tragically drowned in Florida. The majority of these incidents occurred in swimming pools, with 76.3% happening during non-swim times when a child is not expected to be in or near water. Let’s work together to raise awareness about water safety and prevent such heartbreaking accidents.

For more information on water safety tips, please visit https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/child-family/child-and-family-well-being/summer-safety-tips/water-safety/water-safety-kids. 

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Florida Democratic Party Applauds President Biden’s Decisive Actions to Secure the Border

Posted on

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 4, 2024

MEDIA CONTACT

[email protected]

 

FLORIDA DEMOCRATIC PARTY APPLAUDS PRESIDENT BIDEN’S DECISIVE ACTIONS TO SECURE THE BORDER

 

Tallahassee, FL — Today, President Biden announced executive actions designed to secure the southern border. In response, the Florida Democratic Party has issued the following statement:

“While Republicans in Congress fail to act, President Biden continues to deliver real solutions to the problems facing our country,” said FDP Chair Nikki Fried. “President Biden’s executive actions on the border today will reduce the burden on our border patrol agents, while protecting unaccompanied children and victims of trafficking.

“The actions taken today will only affect those who are trying to cross our border unlawfully and help limit the number of daily crossings. It’s a clear contrast to the Trump Administration’s failed and inhumane family separation policies. Since taking office, President Biden has repeatedly proposed solutions to our immigration system and worked to reunite thousands of kids with their families.

“Earlier this year, self-serving Republicans like Rick Scott led by Donald Trump blocked the bipartisan border security agreement — a political stunt designed to cause chaos on the border in an effort to help Trump’s presidential campaign. The Florida Democratic Party reiterates calls on Florida Republicans in Congress to do their job and support bipartisan plans to secure our border.”

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Traffic Advisory: Traffic on State Road 535 under I-4 Shifting June 6

Posted on

For Immediate Release
June 4, 2024

Contact: Public Information Office
386-943-5593

[email protected]

Traffic Advisory: Traffic on State Road 535 under I-4 Shifting June 6

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Motorists should be advised that a yearlong traffic shift is scheduled to begin Thursday, June 6, in both directions of State Road (S.R.) 535 (Apopka-Vineland Road) under the Interstate 4 (I-4) overpass.

Single- and double-lane closures are scheduled to occur nightly on northbound and southbound S.R. 535 from Vineland Avenue to Hotel Plaza Boulevard from Tuesday, June 4, through Thursday, June 6, beginning as early as 10:30 p.m. each night and reopening by 7:30 a.m. the following morning. These closures are necessary to shift traffic to the outside shoulder.

Beginning as early as 12:30 a.m. Thursday, June 6, traffic on southbound S.R. 535 from Hotel Plaza Boulevard to the eastbound I-4 on ramp will be shifted over one lane to the outside. As early as 10:30 p.m. Thursday, June 6, traffic on northbound S.R. 535 from Vineland Avenue to the westbound I-4 off ramp will be shifted one lane to the outside. These traffic shifts are anticipated to be in place until spring 2025 and will provide space for crews to conduct bridge work for the westbound I-4 Express extension and new westbound I-4 on ramp.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) advises motorists to follow all posted signs. Construction schedules are subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Please continue to use caution while driving through active construction zones. Remember to always be alert while riding or driving.

For more information on the planned improvements on the I-4 and Apopka-Vineland Road project, visit the project website at I4Beyond.com/535.

Media inquiries should be directed to the FDOT Public Information Office at [email protected] or by phone at 386-943-5593.

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FDLE announces arrest for petition fraud on abortion initiative

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FDLE announces arrest for petition fraud on abortion initiative

 

For Immediate Release

June 4, 2024

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) announces the arrest of Jamie L. Johnson, 47, of Dade City, accused of fraud on the abortion initiative.

Johnson had been wanted since February and is charged with nine felony counts of criminal use of personal identification information, one count of criminal use of personal identification of a deceased individual and 10 counts of signing another person’s name or using a fictitious name on a petition.

The arrest was the result of an investigation led by FDLE’s Election Crime Unit (ECU) working with the Florida Department of State Office of Election Crimes and Security (OECS).

Johnson was arrested on May 29 in Nebraska and was booked into the Sarpy County Jail.  Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution will prosecute the case.

Since February, eight people have been charged with petition fraud following FDLE investigations, including three with fraud on the abortion initiative.

For Further Information Contact:

FDLE Office of Public Information

(850) 410-7001

Governor DeSantis Encourages Residents to Take Advantage of Disaster Preparation Sales Tax Holiday

Posted on

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 4, 2024

CONTACT: FDEM Communications Team, [email protected] | (850) 815-4940

ICYMI: Governor DeSantis Encourages Residents to Take Advantage of Disaster Preparation Sales Tax Holiday

~Governor also awards $7.5 million to continue Hurricane Ian recovery~ 

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Concurrent to the start of the 2024 hurricane season, Governor Ron DeSantis today urged residents to take advantage of the 14-day sales tax holiday for disaster preparation supplies. Governor DeSantis also encouraged Floridians to have a plan in place for their families if disaster strikes their area and to put together a disaster readiness kit at home.

Governor DeSantis also announced a $7.5 million award to Lee County through Florida’s Job Growth Grant Fund to help rebuild and enhance the shrimp dock, which was destroyed during Hurricane Ian, at San Carolos Maritime Park. This dual-purpose facility will serve as an emergency operations site to launch barges, provide a place for shrimp vessels to dock, and transfer product to distribution trucks.

“With hurricane season underway, now is the time to get prepared and ensure you have a disaster plan in place,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I encourage all Floridians to use the sales tax holiday to stock up on the necessary emergency supplies and assemble a disaster preparedness kit.”

“Thanks to the steadfast leadership of Governor DeSantis, the state has all the resources necessary to support Florida communities in the event a storm does strike this hurricane season,” said Florida Division of Emergency Management Executive Director Kevin Guthrie. “I’ve spent the last month traveling around the state to meet with county emergency managers to ensure preparedness and coordination at all levels. Now, I encourage Floridians to finalize their preparedness plans for their homes and businesses, because it only takes one storm to severely impact a community.” 
Right now, through June 14, the first of two Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays is happening, which means many disaster preparation items can be purchased tax-free, including:
  • Water
  • Shelf-stable canned food
  • Batteries
  • Flashlights
  • Reusable ice
  • Pet items
  • Toys
  • Portable power banks and more
Other important items that are tax-free include:
  • Portable generators
  • Tarps or other waterproof sheeting
  • Smoke detectors and alarms
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Carbon monoxide detectors
  • Portable radios less than $50
And since pets are part of the family, too, several items such as pet leashes, beds, wet and dry food, and over-the-counter pet medications can also be purchased tax-free through June 14. For a full disaster supply kit checklist, visit FloridaDisaster.org/Kit.
Preparedness efforts and resources include:
Get Educated, Get Informed
  • Learn about community disaster plans and community warning systems. Every household is encouraged to have a battery-operated or hand-crank weather radio to ensure they can continue to receive alerts from the National Weather Service in the event of power outages or damaged cell towers.
  • Register to receive life-saving emergency weather alerts at FloridaDisaster.org/AlertFlorida.
Make a Plan
  • Make a list of personal household needs and resources for meeting them in a disaster environment.
  • Include all members of the family, including children, in the disaster preparedness planning process, so that everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency.
  • Pets are part of the family, too – identify a safe place to take pets if you cannot bring them with you during an evacuation. Never leave household pets behind during a hurricane or tropical storm.
  • Make a family plan at FloridaDisaster.org/PlanPrepare, and make a business plan at Business.FloridaDisaster.org.
Inventory Home Possessions
  • Make a record of your possessions – in writing or video – to help claim reimbursement in case of loss or damage.
Reduce Home Hazards
  • Have defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections repaired.
  • Place large, heavy objects on lower shelves.
  • Have cracks in ceilings and foundations repaired.
  • Make landscaping hurricane-resistant by trimming trees and plants down and putting any items inside that may turn into dangerous projectiles in high winds.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
  • Every household should have a fully stocked disaster supply kit with at least seven days of items for each household member, including consideration of children, pets and seniors. 
  • Florida’s Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday began June 1, and provides residents with the opportunity to purchase supplies tax-free during one of two 14-day Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holidays.
  • For a full disaster supply kit checklist, visit FloridaDisaster.org/Kit.
Safeguard Important Records and Documents
  • Keep copies of important family records and other documents (birth and marriage certificates, Social Security cards, passports, wills, deeds, insurance cards, etc.) in a safe deposit box or other waterproof location.
Know Your Zone, Know Your Home
  • Visit FloridaDisaster.org/Know to learn if you live in an evacuation zone or low-lying flood-prone area.
  • Know your home’s ability to withstand hurricane-force winds.
  • Follow all evacuation orders issued by local county emergency management officials.
If You’re Halfway Full, You’re Halfway There
  • During hurricane season, vehicles should always have at least half a tank of gas or be halfway charged to ensure they have enough fuel to evacuate as soon as possible without worrying about long lines at gas stations and to avoid gas shortages prior to a storm.
Evacuate Tens of Miles, Not Hundreds of Miles
  • Evacuations do not have to be hundreds of miles away – they can typically be tens of miles inland to a location that can withstand hurricane-force winds and remain out of reach from life-threatening storm surge.
2024 Florida Hurricane Season Guide
For more preparedness content, follow the Division on Instagram, X and Facebook.
     
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FAMU Mourns Alum, 220 Quarterback Club President Eddie Jackson

Posted on

For Immediate Release
Tuesday, June 4, 2024
FAMU Mourns Alum, 220 Quarterback Club President Eddie Jackson
Florida A&M University (FAMU) mourns the loss of Eddie Jackson, president of the 220 Quarterback Club  and one of the most ardent supporters of his alma mater. Jackson, who served as director of Communications and vice president of University Relations under then President Frederick S. Humphries, Sr., Ph.D., died Monday, June 3. He was 86.
A FAMU alum, Jackson worked in various roles at FAMU, including sports information director under the legendary Coach Alonzo “Jake” Gaither. He was the University’s chief spokesman during the illustrious Humphries years.
“FAMU lost a loyal son and one of its strongest and most effective advocates. Eddie Jackson loved FAMU and FAMU loved him back.  His wit is legendary, often bringing down the house with laughter. On behalf of the entire Rattler community, I extend my most deepest sympathy to his wife Jerrlyne and the rest of his family,” said FAMU President Larry Robinson, Ph.D.
Since his retirement in 2002, Jackson has continued his staunch support for the University and its athletic programs. He has led the 220 Quarterback Club to financially support football and other programs. In the past decade, the group has donated more than $200,000 to various athletic programs and the Marching “100” Band.
Jackson was a writer at heart. Throughout his professional life, he was a reliable voice of reason on the Tallahassee Democrat Opinion page and could be counted on to passionately articulate the FAMU story. His book, “Coaching Against the Wind: The National Championship Seasons of the Florida A&M University Rattters” was published in 2009.
In 2022, Jackson was honored during the Florida Blue Florida Classic Night of Distinction festivities.
“To be honored by your Alma Mater is one of the greatest honors one can receive. After my family, FAMU has been the wind beneath my wings,” Jackson said in a statement at the time. “During my nearly 40 years as an employee, I never felt like I was going to work. FAMU became my home away from home.”
Jackson was also a 2008 inductee in the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame.
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Media Contact
Andrew J. Skerritt
Associate Director/Media Relations
850-544-2675
Office of Communications
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
1601 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Suite 200, Tallahassee, FL
Main: 850-599-3413

Electric Scooters Join Tax Free Holiday in July

Posted on

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 4, 2024

CONTACT: Travis Flinn, 407-893-2422

 

ELECTRIC SCOOTERS JOIN TAX FREE HOLIDAY IN JULY

Orlando, FL – Beginning July 1st as part of the month long Freedom Summer Sales Tax holiday personal electric scooters will be sales tax free. The provision exempting scooters was added by Senator Linda Stewart (D- Orlando) and would eliminate sales tax collected on scooters retailing for $500 or less.

“This tax exemption can help personal autonomy in transportation, reduce our overall emissions, and help close the transportation access gaps experienced by many Floridians,” said Stewart. “There are countless examples I could give where one of these devises could transform someone’s life and unlock opportunities in employment, education, and access to greater transportation resources.”

These personal mobility devices join the long list of other items aimed to help Floridians enjoy the summer months. Other sales tax exempt goods include fishing supplies, outdoor recreation equipment, and admissions to state parks and museums sales.

To qualify for the exemption the electric scooter must be a vehicle having two or fewer wheels, with or without a seat or saddle for the use of the rider, which is equipped to be propelled by an electric motor and which weighs less than 75 pounds, is less than 2 feet wide, and is designed for a maximum speed of less than 35 miles per hour, with a sales price of $500 or less.

“By providing this sales tax break over the course of a month we give people the chance to save a good amount of money on these sometimes expensive purchases and grant them greater access to opportunities through expanding their mobility,” said Stewart.

 

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