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Florida Department Of Health Issues Suspension And Restriction Orders for July 2017

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Division of Medical Quality Assurance issues 18 ESO/EROs in July 2017

The Florida Department of Health issued 18 Emergency Suspension Orders (ESOs) and Emergency Restriction Orders (EROs) during July for serious violations, which can include the commission of crimes, violations of standards of care, drug use, impairment, drug diversion, sexual misconduct or student loan defaults.

  • Brigitte G. Arnold, Pharmacist, Tampa
  • Lynn Bennett-Gardner, Licensed Practical Nurse, Ormond Beach
  • Quinlan L. Brown, Certified Nursing Assistant, Pensacola
  • Tanya C. Chapman, Registered Nurse, Saint Augustine
  • Heather H. Coss, Certified Nursing Assistant, Fort Walton Beach
  • Deirdre Lorraine Dancy, Licensed Practical Nurse, Kissimmee
  • Guillermo J. Delgado, Licensed Practical Nurse, Miami
  • Lisa Carol Putnal Dortch, Registered Nurse, Lake City
  • Amanda Frens, Certified Nursing Assistant, Largo
  • Renee A. Godby, Licensed Practical Nurse, Winter Park
  • Amanda Elizabeth Ingersoll, Registered Nurse, Port Saint Lucie
  • Angela A. Lee, Certified Nursing Assistant, Lehigh Acres
  • Myeshia L. Leonard, Licensed Practical Nurse, Tallahassee
  • David Nazario, Massage Therapist, Orlando
  • Julie Wynne Nickell, Registered Nurse, Coral Springs
  • Jason E. Sapp, Massage Therapist, Pensacola
  • Wesley B. Searcy, Registered Nurse, Pensacola
  • Edward D. Williams, Certified Nursing Assistant, Ocala

ESO/EROs are not considered final agency action. The individual is entitled to a hearing before final action is taken by a regulatory board or by the department.
To view the most recent ESOs, EROs, Final Orders and Administrative Complaints please visit http://ww2.doh.state.fl.us/finalordernet/.
For other information on Medical Quality Assurance, including information about enforcement terms or definitions, boards and councils, or the health care practitioner licensing process, visit http://www.flhealthsource.gov/.
About the Florida Department of Health
The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Congressman Yoho to Join Small Business Owners for a Luncheon Discussion on Pro-Growth Tax Reform

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MEDIA ADVISORY

The Main Street Growth & Opportunity Coalition, along with the Putnam County Republican Executive Committee, will host a luncheon with Congressman Ted Yoho, small business owners and other supporters to discuss pro-growth tax reform and ways Congress can help small businesses grow and create jobs, which will lead to a healthier, more secure economy.
WHO: Congressman Ted Yoho, small business owners and other supporters
WHAT: Luncheon with Congressman Yoho to discuss pro-growth tax reform
WHERE: TMT Auto Clinic
1117 SR 20
Interlachen, Florida 32148
WHEN: Tuesday, August 8, 2017
12:00-1:00 p.m.
About the Main Street Growth & Opportunity Coalition – Florida 
The Main Street Growth & Opportunity Coalition is an alliance of businesses, local trade associations and concerned individuals committed to supporting a common sense, pro-growth agenda for America. For more information, please visit www.mainstreetgrowthandopportunity.org/florida.

DCF Applies for $6 Million in Additional Federal Funds to Fight Opioid Epidemic

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Last week, the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) submitted an application to the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) for the Prescription Drug and Opioid Addiction grant. This grant is designed to address the opioid crisis by expanding and enhancing access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) services for persons with an opioid use disorder. If awarded, Florida would receive $2 million per year for up to three years.
“We are committed to using every available tool to help those in need as we continue to aggressively fight the national opioid epidemic in Florida,” DCF Secretary Mike Carroll said. “This grant will provide critical funding to obtain additional resources which provide further support to communities in need of vital treatment for individuals and families.”
This grant would supplement the $27 million State Targeted Response Grant received in May to fund opioid prevention, treatment, and recovery support services across the state. Governor Rick Scott signed Executive Order 17-146 on May 3, declaring a statewide Public Health Emergency and directing the immediate draw down of the $27 million in grant funds.
The proposal is aimed to increase the number of individuals receiving MAT, increase the number of individuals receiving integrated care, and increase the number of individuals receiving peer and other recovery support services. These proven methods of treatment will allow thousands of families to receive needed services in their communities. Other goals include decreasing the use of illicit/non-prescribed opioids, increasing the percent of individuals retained in care six months after initiating treatment, and improving social functioning.
Florida is one of the 17 eligible states to apply for the grant. SAMHSA will award grants to up to five states in the fall.

Commissioner Adam Putnam to Deliver Remarks at Chamber Foundation’s Military, Defense and Veterans Opportunities Summit

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MEDIA ADVISORY

On Tuesday, Aug. 8, Commissioner Adam H. Putnam will attend the Chamber Foundation’s 2017 Military, Defense and Veterans Opportunities Summit.
Date: Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2017
Time: 9 a.m.
Location: Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld
6677 Sea Harbor Dr.
Orlando, Fla. 32821
The event will be livestreamed by the Florida Chamber of Commerce and can be viewed by visiting FloridaChamber.com/MilitarySummitLive. Media is invited to attend and should RSVP to [email protected].

Tarpon Springs Man Enters Guilty Plea in Investment Fraud Scheme

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Fake Security System Pitch Used to Dupe Investors

The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) today announced that John Edward Simpson, 64, entered a plea of guilty to eight felony counts of grand theft, 12 felony counts of securities fraud, 12 felony counts of failing to register a security, and 12 felony counts of failing to register as a securities dealer. Simpson, a resident of Tarpon Springs, perpetrated an investment fraud scheme out of Safety Harbor.
“Protecting Floridians from financial fraud is our top priority. This scammer falsely promised a return on investment using a fake security system pitch to deceive victims,” said OFR Commissioner Drew J. Breakspear. “I am proud of our investigative team, which gathered evidence, conducted interviews, and financial analyses, to ensure that Floridians received a positive outcome in this case.”
Simpson told at least 20 victim investors across the country that his company, Defense Technology Corporation DTC, LLC (DTC), had developed a security system to be manufactured and marketed to schools and universities in the United States. Simpson issued stock and promissory notes in DTC, but never established any revenue or customers. Contrary to representations, the majority of victims’ money was not used to further the business, but instead was used to pay Simpson’s “salary” and personal living expenses.
The OFR appreciates the assistance of the Tarpon Springs Police Department and Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. The Pinellas County State Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.
If you feel that you may be a victim of fraud or to report suspicious activity, please file a complaint with the OFR online, www.flofr.com, or call (850) 487-9687.

CFO Jimmy Patronis Announces Appointment of Ryan West as Chief of Staff

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Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis today announced the appointment of Ryan West as Chief of Staff, effective later this month.
CFO Patronis said, “Ryan has been a trusted member of my team since day one, and there is no one better suited to serve as my second in command. His instincts and experience have afforded him the tools to do the job, and I have full confidence that he will successfully lead our team for years to come.”
Before joining the CFO’s Office, West most recently served as Chief Advisor to then-Commissioner Patronis at the Public Service Commission (PSC). In that role, Ryan was charged with overseeing policy areas that included electric energy, water and wastewater systems, natural gas and telecommunications. Additionally, he monitored and advised the Commissioner on significant energy policy shifts in state, national and international arenas. He has also served as Chief Advisor to Commissioners Ronald A. Brisé and Ben “Steve” Stevens III.
Public Service Commission Chairman Julie Brown said, “As a member of the Public Service Commission team, Ryan was laser-focused on ensuring the prudent use of ratepayers’ money. His ability to secure solutions to the complex issues facing Florida makes him a fitting choice for Chief of Staff, and he will serve our state well.”
Prior to the PSC, West led the Florida House of Representative’s Economic Development and Tourism Subcommittee as Policy Chief.
Former House Speaker Will Weatherford said, “I’ve seen Ryan’s work first-hand, and I’ve watched him become one of Florida’s leading economic development experts. While serving in the House of Representatives, he helped members prepare priority legislation on topics like tourism and job creation, community redevelopment and affordable housing–all of which are critical to keeping Florida moving forward. I know he’ll make a great Chief of Staff.”
Ryan honed his economic development skill set early in his career, while serving as the Florida Chamber of Commerce’s Director of Economic Development and Education Policy. There he crafted portions of the Chamber’s legislative agenda and served as the Chamber’s lead lobbyist on legislation that included top-tier topics, such as teacher merit pay, digital learning and charter schools, and tax relief packages for Florida businesses.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and a Master’s of Science degree in Applied American Politics and Policy from Florida State University. He lives in Tallahassee with his wife, Kim, and young son, Parker.

Gov. Scott Announces $50 Million for Springs Restoration Projects Across Florida

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Continues Historic Investment in Florida’s Iconic Spring Systems

Governor Rick Scott today announced the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Florida Water Management Districts have identified 40 springs projects that will receive $50 million as part of the 2017-2018 Fighting for Florida’s Future budget. The $50 million in Legacy Florida funding for springs restoration projects was included in Governor Scott’s recommended budget and approved by the Legislature during this year’s legislative session. These projects will help improve water quality, recharge water flow and protect habitat in Florida’s iconic spring systems.
Governor Scott said, “Florida is home to some of the most beautiful springs in the world, and protecting these natural treasures is incredibly important for our state’s families, environment and economy. Last year, I was proud to sign the Legacy Florida bill to establish a dedicated funding source for springs protection and I am glad that investment is continuing with $50 million for springs restoration projects across the state this year. Springs protection will remain a priority so that Florida’s future generations will continue to enjoy these unique natural treasures.”
DEP works with water management districts to identify projects that will improve the quality of Florida springs and provide a good return on investment. Many of these projects include matching funds from various local partners. Combined with match funding from Florida’s water management districts and local partners, the investment in springs projects will total more than $94 million during the 2017-18 fiscal year. Since Governor Scott took office, more than $365 million has been invested in Florida’s springs, the highest amount of funding in Florida’s history.
DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein said, “Thanks to the continued commitment of Governor Scott and the Florida Legislature in securing a dedicated funding source for springs restoration and protection, we can continue to focus on completing strategic acquisitions and projects that will produce real benefits for our spring systems. I look forward to continuing to work with the Governor and Legislature, the water management districts and partners in the environmental, agricultural and local communities to conserve and protect Florida’s iconic springs.”
As part of these springs projects, the state is launching three new Springs Protection Land Acquisition Initiatives, with a total of more than $6 million allocated for land acquisitions to protect Wakulla Springs, Econfina Springs and springs along the Suwannee and Santa Fe rivers. An additional $2.5 million will be allocated toward a conservation easement that will ensure land protection and nutrient reduction benefits for De Leon Spring.
Senate President Joe Negron said, “Restoring and protecting Florida’s springs is essential to fully and faithfully implementing the Water and Land Conservation Amendment passed by Florida voters in 2014. Legacy Florida ensures dedicated, annual funding for this critical effort. Governor Scott has been a strong advocate for preserving Florida’s environment, particularly our Springs, and I appreciate his ongoing leadership and support of our Legacy Florida initiative.”
House Speaker Richard Corcoran said, “Our springs provide beauty, drinking water, jobs, and an identity for many communities. We will continue to fight, along with the Governor, for the protection of this distinctly Floridian natural resource.”
Other restoration and protection projects that have been identified for funding this fiscal year will enhance water quality through wastewater, stormwater and runoff pollution control projects, including septic tank conversion and agricultural partnerships. Projects to expand water reuse and improve aquifer recharge rates will also help ensure the protection of Florida’s groundwater supply.
The 40 statewide projects include:

  • Southwest Florida Water Management District: Kings Bay (Citrus County)sewer extension and reuse project – This project will improve water quality in Kings Bay by supporting the construction of a sewer main extension to remove septic systems and route 2 million gallons per day of reclaimed water out of the springshed. 
  • Northwest Florida Water Management District: Wakulla Springs (Wakulla County) septic connection projects – These projects will improve water quality in Wakulla springs by connecting more than 370 residences currently on septic tanks to an existing central sewer service.
  • St Johns River Water Management District: Silver Springs (Marion County)wetland treatment and recharge project – This project will increase the flow of Silver Springs by receiving and treating excess reclaimed water and stormwater, providing 3 to 5 million gallons per day of recharge.
  • Suwannee River Water Management District: White and Blue Sink springs (Suwannee County) wastewater improvement project – This project will improve water quality for two springs along the Suwannee River by providing advanced wastewater treatment and eliminating 32 commercial septic tanks.

A complete list of the springs protection projects funded by the Fighting for Florida’s Future budget can be found HERE. These projects will be considered by the water management district Governing Boards as part of their upcoming budget hearings. More information is also available on springs projects funded during the FY 16-17 year and FY 15-16 year.

FDLE arrests Washington County man for child pornography

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Agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement arrested Lon Murray Watkins, 55, of 657 New Prospect Road in Chipley, Florida for 10 counts of possession of child pornography one count of distribution of child pornography.
FDLE agents, along with the assistance of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at the residence today, and the investigation determined that Watkins had downloaded multiple child pornography images. In addition, agents seized electronic communication devices such as computers and tablets.
Watkins was booked into the Washington County Jail. The case will be prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney, 14th Judicial Circuit.
Please visit the Secure Florida website to review tips for keeping your children safe online at: http://secureflorida.org/staying_safe/best_practices_for_parents/.

Statement from Florida League of Cities on FEMA Legislation

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The Florida League of Cities today issued a statement applauding Senator Rubio for introducing important legislation to protect communities that receive FEMA disaster funds. It is powerful to see Florida’s delegation united on this issue, and the League offers its full support.
“The Post-Disaster Fairness to States Act will streamline and clarify the de-obligation process by imposing a three-year cap on the period in which FEMA can seek to recover funds previously awarded to assist in disaster recovery.
“Florida’s communities accept the constant threat posed to our state by hurricanes and other natural disasters, but they should not be forced to live at risk of a drawn out bureaucratic process that is confusing and inconsistent.
“In the aftermath of a disaster, Florida’s municipalities do heroic work restoring order to their communities, and the value of help from agencies like FEMA is impossible to calculate. We applaud Senators Rubio and Nelson, Representatives Frankel and Diaz-Balart and Florida’s other congressional members, for their steadfast support on this matter.”

Governor Rick Scott: We Will Not Give Up Until Venezuela is Free

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Please see the following op-ed written by Governor Scott on Venezuela in English below and featured first in Spanish yesterday in the el Nuevo Herald HERE.
We will not give up until Venezuela is Free
By Governor Rick Scott
Just one day following the conclusion of the shameful Constituent Assembly aimed to empower Nicolas Maduro’s regime, the dictator and his gang of thugs have struck again. This time, during a cowardly overnight raid to seize two members of the opposition party, Leopoldo Lopez and Antonio Ledezma.
The world saw the devastating images from Venezuela over the weekend. Maduro’s continued brutalization of the Venezuelan people with violence and a total lack of democracy is atrocious.
His brazen efforts to rewrite Venezuela’s constitution under the guise of democracy is an insult to freedom, and taking power away from his citizens against their will is completely reprehensible.
Now, with his latest move— to remove two prominent freedom fighters from their homes just hours after further U.S. sanctions— Maduro has sent a clear message to the world: the freedom and lives of the people of Venezuela are disposable in favor of empowering his totalitarian regime.
Over the last several weeks, I have continued to applaud the Trump administration’s swift actions against the Maduro regime which has endangered the lives of millions of Venezuelans. Just this week, Nicolas Maduro himself was added to the U.S. Treasury’s list of Specially Designated Nationals, thereby formally defining Maduro as the dictator he has proven himself to be. This important distinction follows the “election” of the Constituent Assembly on July 30 that was designed to favor pro-Maduro candidates on the ballot. Despite the efforts to thwart this brutal regime, over 100 innocent lives have been lost. Nicolas Maduro must step down now, and we must not stop until this dictatorship is no more.
The Venezuelan people have shown their strength and resilience in the face of oppression. It is incumbent upon the United States and the rest of the free world to stand with them. We must continue to make it clear to the people of Venezuela fighting for freedom that we will not give up. We owe that to the brave men and women who stand for democracy at the ultimate cost.
We will not tolerate Maduro’s assault on freedom and democracy and must continue to find ways to advocate for human rights in Venezuela. That is at the very core of why I am proposing to officially prohibit the Florida State Board of Administration from making investments that support the Maduro regime. This is a step in the right direction, and I look forward to working with our state legislature and federal partners to take further action against the dictatorship. True freedom and democracy is the only acceptable outcome for the people of Venezuela.
We cannot accept anything short of the complete release of all political prisoners and for Maduro and his gang of thugs to step down. The time is now to make room for real democratic leadership that respects the will and rights of everyone in Venezuela.