The League of Women Voters of Florida announced on Tuesday that Lisa Hall will be joining the state board of directors. “Lisa represents the professionalism and expertise that is the hallmark of the League of Women Voters. It is a pleasure to be able to work alongside her,” said Pamela Goodman, president of LWV Florida. Lisa Hall
Lisa Hall draws from nearly three decades of media experience – on both the receiving and sending ends. After nearly 17 years as a broadcast news producer, she launched her intended career in public relations in 2000 and led the public affairs practice as Senior Vice President of Salter>Mitchell (formerly Herrle Communications Group) until July of 2013.
As director of public affairs, Lisa played an important role in strategic planning by facilitating brainstorming sessions, developing creative content and identifying news angles. Lisa has led statewide campaigns that have resulted in major client victories. She led a grassroots campaign that helped save Florida’s State Library, spearheaded media and community relations that resulted in the largest preservation land purchase in Florida history and creation of the Babcock Ranch Preserve in Southwest Florida, and engaged Florida newspapers as reliable and outspoken allies for three Supreme Court Justices facing organized efforts to remove them from the bench in the 2012 merit retention races. The more than 272 articles covering the unprecedented attempt to politicize the court included 120 editorials and opinion columns published during a 10 month period.
While Hall is continuing her work with Salter>Mitchell clients as a senior consultant to the firm, she launched Hall+Media in part to pursue additional opportunities to advocate on behalf of judicial branches that are under siege across the country.
A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Hall moved to Florida in 1987 to accept a position as news producer for WSVN in Miami. In 1990 she migrated north to Tallahassee, where she continued her journalism career as capital bureau chief and regional manager for a television news cooperative serving 10 stations across Florida. She went on to serve as News Director for WTWC and then as Managing Editor for Florida’s News Channel before making the move to public relations. Hall is Accredited in Public Relations (APR) and is also credentialed as a Certified Public Relations Counselor (CPRC) by the Florida Public Relations Association. She is active in numerous community organizations.
The League of Women Voters of Florida, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. For more information, please visit the League’s website at: www.TheFloridaVoter.org.
Governor Rick Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget includes investments to allow the men and women of the Florida National Guard to remain ready and able to support their national, state and community missions.
Governor Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget invests $85.9 million in the Florida Department of Military Affairs in order to continue providing ready military units and personnel to support national security and protect the State of Florida. Funding will be used to complete improvements on armories throughout the state, maintain community based programs for youth and adults and support Guardsmen pursuing a higher civilian education.
Governor Rick Scott said, “This year, hundreds of members of our National Guard put their own lives in danger in order to help keep our families and communities safe following the two hurricanes and a tropical storm that impacted our state. These brave men and women deserve our full appreciation and support, and we must do everything we can to support our military members and their families and ensure Florida remains the most military friendly state in the nation.”
“Governor Scott continues to be one of the greatest advocates for our Soldiers and Airmen,” said Maj. Gen. Michael Calhoun, the Adjutant General of Florida. “This year’s budget reflects his ongoing commitment to ensuring we remain fully prepared to safeguard our citizens, state and nation.”
The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget includes:
Governor Scott’s recommended budget includes $6 million to finalize the updates to the Florida National Guard armories that serve as the core of Florida’s hometown-based units. The updated facilities enable Florida Guardsmen to be trained and ready to react when the state or nation calls upon them. The final armory to be renovated is the Robert F. Ensslin armory in St. Augustine. This funding will complete renovations to the prioritized list of armories in communities from Homestead to Pensacola, enhancing the stationing facilities of nearly 10,000 Army Guardsmen.
In addition to armory renovations, this year’s budget provides $3.4 million for the maintenance and repair of armories statewide, and $2 million to improve armory security.
The budget also adds $765,000 to the Florida Youth Challenge Academy, a 17 ½ month voluntary program geared toward Florida’s 16-to-18-year old at-risk youth. The program consists of a five-and-a-half-month residential phase and a 12-month post-residential phase. More than 4,000 young people have graduated from this program since its inception. For more information, please visit www.floridayouthchallengeacademy.org.
The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget also includes $750,000 for Education Dollars for Duty. This program reimburses Florida National Guard service members for education expenses incurred in pursuit of technical certificates and/or associate’s, baccalaureate or master’s degrees from public or private institutions located here in Florida.
“The governor’s continued commitment to funding the Educational Dollars for Duty program is one of the things that truly makes Florida the most military friendly state in the nation,” said Maj. Butler Strain, Educational Officer for the Florida National Guard. “This program has enabled hundreds of Soldiers and Airmen to pursue their higher education goals, making our Guard and our state stronger.”
“The Florida National Guard is dedicated not only to military excellence, but also to taking care of our citizens,” said Lt. Col. Brian Fallon, Florida Department of Military Affairs State Quartermaster. “We are very pleased that the governor’s budget continues to provide funding for these programs that add such value to our communities.”
“Our armories are at the center of all we do,” said Maj. Sam Sargent, Florida National Guard Force Protection Officer. “Under Governor Scott, we have made tremendous strides in the modernization and improvement of these facilities. This budget will allow us to continue that work to ensure that we are the most ready and capable National Guard in the country, and that our armories are safe environments for our Soldiers, Airmen and citizens.”
Governor Rick Scott today announced that the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will receive $10.8 billion in the recommended FY 2017-2018 “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget to make strategic transportation investments statewide and keep Florida’s world-class transportation and infrastructure system as the nation’s best.
Governor Scott said, “As the third largest state in the nation with the fourth fastest growing population, we must make sure our state is prepared to safely welcome new families, visitors and job creators. We have made significant investments in transportation for four years in a row because we know the incredible impact it has on job creation and helping Florida become a leading hub for global trade. The ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget continues this record funding by including more than $10 billion to ensure our transportation and infrastructure system remains a national leader for decades to come.”
The Governor’s FY 2017/2018 transportation budget makes the following investments:
$4.1 billion for construction of highway projects
$178.2 million in seaport infrastructure improvements
$257.8 million for aviation improvements
$300.8 million for scheduled repair of 61 bridges and replacement of 16 bridges
$978.2 million for maintenance and operation
$618 million for public transit development grants
$175.6 million for safety initiatives
$82.7 million for bike and pedestrian trails.
Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jim Boxold said, “Governor Scott’s transportation budget provides the record funding necessary to maintain and repair existing infrastructure and prepare for future growth. Florida’s roads, seaports, airports, railways and trails will continue to meet the growing needs of Florida’s families.”
The Governor’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget makes the following transportation investments: Northeast Florida
$103.9M to acquire right of way for the First Coast Expressway in Clay County. This funding enables the department to complete land acquisition in this county, thereby ensuring construction continues. The First Coast Expressway is a new all electronic toll facility which improves the movement of people and goods throughout the region.
$44.2M to add additional lanes and reconstruct the existing SR 15 (US 17) from west of Dunns Creek to Horse Landing Road in Putnam County. The improvements include widening the existing two lane roadway to a four-lane divided roadway with a raised median, bicycle lanes, a sidewalk on the west side of the roadway and a 12-foot multi-use path on the east side.
$29.1M for drainage improvements along the SR A1A (3rd Street) from Seagate Avenue to Beach Boulevard in Duval County. The drainage improvements will reduce the incidence and magnitude of flooding experienced at this segment of roadway.
$31.1M for channel deepening and widening at JAXPORT in Duval County. An updated economic impact study reported that cargo activity supports nearly $27 billion in annual economic output.
Northwest Florida
$21M to add lanes and reconstruct SR 369 (US 319) from North of SR 267 to the Leon County Line in Wakulla County. SR 369 serves as the primary travel route between Tallahassee and gulf coast communities. The improvements will improve mobility, relieve traffic congestion, improve traffic circulation, improve pedestrian and bicycle connectivity and improve public safety.
$32.8M to improve the roadway and add lanes on SR 390 in Bay County from Jenks Avenue to East of SR 77/Ohio Avenue. This project will relieve congestion and promote opportunities for growth along the corridor by converting the roadway to a six-lane divided facility with buffered bike lanes and sidewalks. An improved Strategic Intermodal System corridor will also better serve as a Hurricane Evacuation Route for surrounding communities.
$32.6M to add lanes and reconstruct SR 388 (West Bay Parkway) from SR 79 to East of Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport in Bay County. This project will improve mobility and airport access by widening SR 388 from two to four lanes, adding a multi-lane roundabout at the airport entrance, widening the Crooked Creek bridge from two to four-lanes and improving signalization at SR 79.
Southwest Florida
$67.1M to add lanes and reconstruct SR 82 from Alabama Road to the Hendry County Line in Lee County. The improvements include widening of the existing two-lane roadway to a four-lane divided roadway with optional future expansion to six lanes, a shared-use path and lighting improvements.
$115.7M to add lanes on I-75 at the SR 70 interchange in Manatee County. The construction project will rebuild the SR 70 interchange from its existing partial cloverleaf design to a modified diamond interchange design with a single loop in the northwest quadrant. Interchange improvements will also include replacement of entrance and exit ramps and the addition of emergency stopping sites on the exit ramps.
Southeast Florida
$478.6M to add lanes and improve the interchange at I-95/I-595 Express Lanes direct connect (I-95 from Stirling Road to Broward Boulevard) in Broward County. The project will provide new median ramp connections and a second express lane to increase mobility, relieve congestion and accommodate future growth in the region.
$43.2M to add lanes and rehabilitate SR 80 from West of Lion Country Safari Road to Forest Hill/Crestwood Boulevard. SR 80/Southern Blvd. is a Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) corridor located in central Palm Beach County and is one of only two major east-west roadways. This project will relieve congestion on SR 80 by adding an additional travel lane in each direction, and will provide bicycle and pedestrian access to the new developments by including a shared use path and buffered bicycle lanes to accommodate all modes of transportation.
$12.1M to extend the runway at Fort Lauderdale – Hollywood International Airport in Broward County. This project will assist with meeting future demands for commercial and general aviation traffic through improvements and modifications to accommodate the eastward construction of the New South Runway and one parallel taxiway.
$80.9M for bridge replacement on SR 968/SW 1st Street at the Miami River in Miami-Dade County. The existing SW 1st Street bridge is a low-level bascule (movable) bridge spanning the Miami River. The purpose of the project is to replace the structurally deficient bridge and relieve congestion.
$61.7M to expand and improve Krome Avenue in Miami-Dade County from SW 232nd Street to south of SW 136th Street. This project will improve safety, traffic operations and access points to reduce fatalities in the corridor. The road will be widened from two-lanes to a four-lane divided highway and will include new bridges over several canals, improve drainage systems and lighting along the length of the project.
East Central Florida
$56.9M for the direct access between I-95 and the Melbourne International Airport in Brevard County. The direct access will relieve traffic at the adjacent interchanges. The new interchange will align with St. Johns Heritage Parkway and Ellis Road.
$34M for Space Florida Launch Complex Improvements in Brevard County demonstrating Florida’s leadership and commitment to space flight and related businesses as the Space Center transitions to commercial space flight. Improvements will help attract more commercial activity to the area.
$169.5M for 3.53 miles of limited access toll road along State Road 46, east of Wekiva Park Drive to Orange Boulevard to help protect the natural resources surrounding the Wekiva River in Seminole County. The project will include the design of non-tolled service roads, slip ramps, and several bridges. The project will also include roadway widening, drainage, lighting and other features.
$17.5M for rehabilitation of the Volusia/Daytona Beach Taxiway at the Daytona Beach International Airport in Volusia County. The airport serves as a vital link in Florida’s air transportation system. Improved runways will assist Daytona International Airport with their efforts to provide more direct connect flights.
West Central Florida
$40M for Tampa International Airport in Hillsborough County to continue development and construction of an automated people mover. The people mover will transport visitors from a consolidated rental car facility to the main terminal thereby reducing the congestion along George Bean Parkway. It will also connect the proposed Westshore Multimodal Center with the airport and greatly enhance the movement of visitors and residents throughout the region.
$11M to acquire right of way for the future widening of SR 574/Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in Hillsborough County from East of Kings Way to East of McIntosh Road). This project will support growth in the area from the current low density development (mixture of agricultural, commercial, and planned residential developments) to a future urban environment.
$35.1M to add lanes and reconstruct US 19 (SR 55) From West Jump Court to West Fort Island Trail in Citrus County. This project will increase capacity on a major US route from four to six lanes. The project also includes drainage improvements and the addition of sidewalks.
Florida Transportation Commission Chairman Jay Trumbull said, “Governor Scott’s transportation budget makes the right investments in the right places for today’s needs while preparing for tomorrow’s demands. This budget continues to recognize the diverse needs of our residents, our businesses and our visitors.”
Florida Transportation Builders’ Association President Bob Burleson said, “Governor Scott’s record budget continues important strategic investments in transportation infrastructure. The budget maintains a solid foundation for a growing economy and more jobs for Florida’s families.”
Florida Ports Council President and CEO Doug Wheeler said, “Governor Scott continues to make Florida’s seaports a priority by investing in the necessary improvements to keep up with current needs and prepare for future growth in cargo and cruise passengers.”
Floridians for Better Transportation President Sally Patrenos said, “Florida’s transportation system continues to be the best built and maintained in the country because Governor Scott knows that our residents, visitors and businesses rely on it every day.”
Asphalt Contractors Association of Florida President Kevin Wall said, “Governor Scott’s investments in Florida’s critical infrastructure demonstrate his commitment to creating one of the best and safest transportation systems in the nation.”
Florida Concrete & Products Association President Kelly Page said, “Governor Scott’s transportation budget shows why Florida’s roads and bridges are the best in the country. Governor Scott continues to focus on building a transportation system that supports Florida jobs and Florida families.”
Florida Public Transportation Association Executive Director Lisa M. Bacot said, “Florida residents and visitors who rely on local transit systems will benefit from the Governor’s transportation budget. He recognizes the importance public transportation plays in the lives of those who need it most.”
Florida Airports Council President and CEO Lisa Lyle Waters said, “Thanks to the strategic investments Governor Scott has made in Florida’s airport system, we continue to be prepared to handle record volumes in traffic and operations while at the same time making critical improvements to keep our workers and passengers safe.”
Governor Rick Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget makes historic investments in Florida’s public education system, with record high per-student funding, incentives to recruit and retain world-class educators, and proposals to make higher education more affordable.
Governor Scott said, “The students of today are the leaders of tomorrow and we must dedicate every available resource to making sure they have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond. This includes recruiting and retaining highly trained principals and teachers, providing record per-student funding, and remaining committed to making the cost of higher education affordable for all Florida families. We know that teachers are especially key to preparing our future generations for great careers and the ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget recognizes this commitment by proposing funding to eliminate their initial certification and renewal certification fees. By making these critical investments today, we are ensuring our children and grandchildren have the tools they need to accomplish great things across our state.”
The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget includes: K-12 PUBLIC SCHOOLS:
$20.9 billion in state and local funding, an increase of $815.2 million:
Historic per-student funding of $7,421, an increase of $216 over 2016-17 levels;
$203.1 million increase in funds to support an additional 28,193 students;
$80 million to assist districts in implementing their Digital Classrooms Plans;
$74.5 million to ensure school safety for our students, an increase of $10 million; and
$57.4 million for the Sparsity Supplement, an increase of $4.6 million, which provides funding to assist rural districts with sparse populations (24,000 or fewer students).
Funding to help ensure that Florida students have well-prepared, high-quality educators and that educators are recognized and compensated for outstanding performance:
$43 million to recruit, support, and retain the best teachers for all students by providing bonuses to teachers who demonstrate high levels of student growth; addressing shortages in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields; and supporting top teachers in struggling schools;
$8.5 million to provide school leaders with professional development opportunities that will enable them to inspire their teachers and maximize student learning;
$770,000 to recognize outstanding educators in our public schools through the Teacher of the Year program which provides at least $10,000 for district winners; at least $15,000 for the top five finalists; and at least $20,000 for the statewide winner; and
$15 million to pay for initial teacher certifications and renewal certification fees. This investment will save each of Florida’s aspiring teachers approximately $555 on their initial certification and each of Florida’s employed public school teachers $75 for their certification renewal.
FLORIDA COLLEGES:
$1.25 billion in state operating funds, an increase of $10.5 million which provides:
$100 million for performance funding, with $40 million in additional institutional investment;
$10 million to incentivize industry certification performance; and
$5.6 million to fund summer dual enrollment for high school students to take college classes.
In line with his commitment to making college more affordable, Governor Rick Scott has also recommended a sales tax exemption for students purchasing required textbooks and instructional materials, which will save students $48 million next year. A student taking five courses per semester will save a minimum of $60 per year. He is also proposing to freeze all fees and tuition at state colleges. BRIGHT FUTURES:
$252.1 million to fund Florida’s Bright Futures Scholarship Program, including $34.7 million to cover summer classes for eligible students, and $12.9 million to increase the Florida Academic Scholar per credit award amount by 10 percent.
EDUCATIONAL FACILITY IMPROVEMENT:
$185.9 million for maintenance, repairs, renovation and remodeling includes:
$75 million for public schools;
$75 million for charter schools; and
$35.9 million for Florida colleges.
$16 million for two Special Facility Construction Account projects in Hamilton and Taylor Counties
$20.5 million for Florida College System construction projects, requiring a dollar for dollar match from private contributions.
Education Commissioner Pam Stewart said, “There is nothing more important than providing Floridians access to a K-12 and college education that will lead them to prosperous careers. I commend Governor Rick Scott for his ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget, which further demonstrates his steadfast commitment to Florida’s families and their futures.”
Marva Johnson, State Board of Education Chair, said, “Governor Rick Scott hit the mark with his ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget. Florida is recognized as a national leader in the field of education, and by investing in the areas that have the greatest impact on student success, Governor Scott is investing in Florida’s next generation and securing Florida’s future success.”
Andy Tuck, State Board of Education Vice Chair, said, “There has never been a more important time to focus on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in our state’s schools. Throughout the world, there is a growing demand for employees who can seamlessly fill positions in STEM fields, and Governor Scott’s investments will help ensure Florida students are prepared to compete in this global economy.”
Malcom Thomas, Superintendent of Escambia School District and Florida Association of District School Superintendents President, said, “Our state’s students will greatly benefit from Governor Scott’s focus on K-12 education in his ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget. I am particularly pleased by the significant increase in per-student funding, which will enable us to keep our focus where it belongs – on our students.”
Dr. Ed Meadows, Pensacola State College President, said, “I appreciate Governor Rick Scott for proposing an increase of $10.5 million for the Florida College System. Our 28 colleges serve more than 800,000 Florida students and lead the nation with graduation rates topping nearly every other state. This infusion of funds will help ensure each college has the resources necessary to offer their students a world-class education and to respond to the needs of their communities.”
Dr. Jackson N. Sasser, Santa Fe College President, said, “At Santa Fe College, we are committed to helping our students achieve their academic and career goals. Our leadership and staff strive for excellence in all that we do, and I am thankful that Governor Rick Scott has included financial incentives to reward colleges for exemplary performance.”
Dr. Sandy Shugart, Valenica College President, said, “We appreciate the Governor’s commitment to performance funding in the Florida College System. We are convinced Governor Scott’s consistent advocacy for performance funding represents solid business logic and will continue to drive positive student outcomes at Valencia and throughout the system.”
Jessica Solano, 2017 Florida Teacher of the Year, said, “I cherish the opportunity to help mold Florida’s future generations through my work in the classroom, and I know that so many of my fellow teachers around the state share that sentiment. I am immensely grateful that Governor Scott has once again proposed $10,000 for each of the district teachers of the year and additional funds for the finalists and statewide winner. These outstanding educators truly deserve to be recognized for their dedication to Florida’s students.” Click here to view the Fighting for Florida’s Future Budget highlights. Click here to view the Fighting for Florida’s Future Budget FAQ. Click here to view the Fighting for Florida’s Future Budget complete budget.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Governor Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget supports the Florida Lottery’s core mission of providing funding for education by investing $181.5 million in the Florida Lottery. During fiscal year 2015-16, the Florida Lottery generated $1.67 billion in contributions to education, its sixth consecutive record-breaking sales year, while keeping operational expenses below two percent.
Governor Scott said, “The Florida Lottery is working each day to support Florida students so they can become tomorrow’s leaders. By continuing to support the Lottery’s commitment to contributing record-breaking funding to our education system, we can ensure generations of students will have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.” The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget includes:
$12.6 million in additional funding as a result of projected increases in Scratch-Off and Terminal sales for Fiscal Year 2017-18. These additional funds and the new contract are projected to result in a $1.58 billion transfer to the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund.
$837,000 for an electronic document management system to improve accuracy and efficiency by electronically storing and managing claims information. Functionality will be built to interface with the Lottery’s gaming system.
$761,760 to replace data servers at Lottery Headquarters; the Orlando Data Center; and the State Data Center. These servers support critical business applications and are currently operating at or beyond capacity. New storage area network shelves will also be included to accommodate the Lottery’s additional data growth needs.
$53,265 for new management software program that will automate the audit and investigation processes, allowing the Lottery’s Office of Inspector General to more efficiently and effectively fulfill responsibilities in accordance with Chapter 24 and Section 20.055, Florida Statutes.
$67,918 to replace the existing Adaptive Security Appliance Lottery firewalls located in the district offices, the Orlando Data Center, and at Headquarters, all of which will reach their End of Life and End of Technical Support in 2018.
Florida Lottery Secretary Tom Delacenserie said, “The ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget reflects Governor Scott’s continued commitment toward ensuring that Florida’s students have the resources and opportunities they need to get a great education and succeed in their future careers. The Lottery will continue to do all we can to maximize education contributions to help Florida’s students become tomorrow’s leaders.” Ned Bowman, Executive Director of Florida Petroleum Marketers & Convenience Store Association said, “I applaud Governor Scott for putting Florida businesses first and the Florida Lottery for helping retailers grow their businesses while supporting our state’s education system. We are proud of our long partnership with the Florida Lottery, and we look forward to continuing to support their efforts of generating revenue for Florida’s students and schools.” Randy Miller, President and CEO, Florida Retail Federation said, “I appreciate the Governor’s support of Florida’s business community and his commitment to having a strong educational system. The Florida Retail Federation is proud to help contribute to the success of the Florida Lottery because we recognize the organization’s benefit to Florida’s schools.” John Peyton, President of Gate Petroleum Company, “We appreciate having a businessman like Governor Scott leading our state, creating jobs, helping businesses succeed and growing Florida’s economy. We also value our relationship with the Florida Lottery and are proud to partner with them to help generate additional funding for education.” University of Florida student, Eric Jones, “The Bright Futures Scholarship was the motivating factor behind turning my dreams into reality. It allowed me to set my goals high, and settle for nothing less. I appreciate all that Governor Scott and the Florida Lottery are doing to ensure future funding for this and other educational programs.”
Historic $1.3 Billion Investment Will Support Floridians with Disabilities
Governor Rick Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” Budget is recommending $1.3 billion in total funding for APD. This historic investment will eliminate the critical needs waiting list for the fourth year in a row and help Floridians with disabilities live, learn and work in their communities.
Governor Scott said, “For the fourth year in a row, we are fighting to eliminate the critical needs waiting list, which will provide 680 Floridians with unique abilities the opportunities they need to receive the services and support they deserve. These investments are a testament to our commitment to making Florida the best place for all families to live and achieve their dreams and we will continue to do all we can to make our state the first for choice for families for years to come.”
The Fighting for Florida’s Future Budget includes:
$7.5 million to enroll more than 680 individuals with developmental disabilities on the critical needs waiting list onto the APD Home and Community-Based Services Medicaid iBudget Florida waiver.
$3.3 million to provide employment services to more than 2,500 individuals with developmental disabilities who are ready to work. These employment services include job training and coaching, employment assistance and transportation to and from their place of work. These services will help more individuals with disabilities get the opportunities they need to find a great job and live more independently.
$4.6 million to support APD customers with extreme behaviors transitioning from institutional settings into the community. The new Waiver Intensive Behavior Models will assist the agency in meeting federal CMS Rule requirements for living settings.
APD Director Barbara Palmer said, “I appreciate Governor Scott continuing his strong support of individuals with disabilities. For the fourth year, Governor Scott is recommending funding to serve people with critical needs on the waiting list. Additionally, the Governor recognizes the need to increase support for our wonderful partners who deliver direct services to our customers in the community. This funding is vital to protecting the health and safety of our vulnerable customers.”
Family Care Council Florida Chairperson Mary Smith said, “Serving additional individuals with developmental disabilities is a priority of the Family Care Council. We are thrilled Governor Scott’s ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget moves more than 680 people with critical needs from the waiver waiting list to being served in the community. I am very happy that the state of Florida is committed to helping people with developmental disabilities live as full lives as possible.”
Parent and past chairperson of the Family Care Council Florida Pauline Lipps said, “Families need state support to meet the needs of their child with a developmental disability. I am pleased to see Governor Scott’s ongoing support of APD in its mission of serving people with developmental disabilities.”
Betty Kay Clements, parent and past chairperson of the Family Care Council Florida, said, “I appreciate the increased funding being recommended by Governor Scott in his ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ Budget to serve an additional 680 people on the waiting list.”
Support Coordination Association of Florida Chairman David Alexander said, “On behalf of our association, I want to thank Governor Scott for supporting the needs of people with disabilities with his budget recommendation. We are pleased that more people will be able to receive community support through APD with this budget recommendation.”
Special Olympics Florida President and CEO Sherry Wheelock said, “Special Olympics Florida praises Governor Scott for supporting the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Florida by allocating needed funds to continue to protect their well-being. The Governor’s leadership in this area directly supports the work of Special Olympics Florida by improving access to health care services, promoting inclusion at schools, and helping us build communities where all individuals are valued.”
APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn, and work in their communities. The agency annually serves more than 50,000 Floridians with autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, Phalen-McDermid syndrome, and Prader-Willi syndrome. For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit APDcares.org or call toll-free 1‑866‑APD‑CARES (1‑866‑273‑2273).
Consumer sentiment among Floridians in January ticked up another one-half point to 97.8 — the highest reading since March 2002 — from December’s record-breaking revised figure of 97.3, according to the latest University of Florida consumer survey.
Florida’s upward trend also tracks the national figures released last week by the University of Michigan, with the national consumer sentiment index at the highest level since February 2004.
Of the five components that make up the Florida index, three increased and two decreased.
Perceptions of one’s personal financial situation now compared with a year ago showed the greatest increase, rising 5.4 points from 82.8 to 88.2. With the exception of those 60 and older, this view is shared by all Floridians.
Opinions as to whether now is a good time to buy a big-ticket household item such as an appliance increased slightly from 101.2 to 102.3.
“Perceptions of current conditions improved among Floridians in the last month as a result of the positive economic picture that prevailed in the state during the last year,” said Hector H. Sandoval, director of the Economic Analysis Program at UF’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research. “Floridians are optimistic about their own finances. The recent surge in the level of confidence comes from perceptions and expectations about Floridians’ individual financial situations.”
Expectations of personal finances a year from now rose 2.5 points, from 103.9 to 106.4. However, views on the future of the national economy were gloomier: Expectations of U.S. economic conditions over the next year dropped 3.3 points, from 99.9 to 96.6, while anticipated U.S. economic conditions over the next five years decreased 2.7 points from 98.5 to 95.8.
Economic data in Florida continue to be generally positive. Although the December unemployment rate in Florida remained at 4.9 percent, the number of jobs added last year statewide was 251,400—a 3.1 percent increase compared with a year ago. The industry sector gaining most jobs was leisure and hospitality, followed by education and health services, then professional and business services.
“There is no doubt that the state’s economy is in better shape than it was several years ago,” Sandoval said. “However, both short- and long-run expectations about the national economic situation are pessimistic, particularly over the next year. These negative expectations are shared by most Floridians but are strongest among those with income under $50,000. These expectations may reflect uncertainty associated with the upcoming economic policy changes by the new U.S. administration. The next few months will be key to understanding these changes and assessing their potential impact on the economy.”
Conducted Jan. 1-26, the UF study reflects the responses of 449 individuals who were reached on cellphones, representing a demographic cross section of Florida.
The index used by UF researchers is benchmarked to 1966, which means a value of 100 represents the same level of confidence for that year. The lowest index possible is a 2, the highest is 150.
Details of this month’s survey can be found at http://www.bebr.ufl.edu/csi-data.
Writer: Colleen Porter, [email protected]
Bill Establishes Meaningful Regulations to Protect Consumers
State Senator Dana Young (R-Tampa) today announced that she has filed Senate Bill 592, which clarifies the law to make clear that fantasy sports are legal in the State of Florida, while also establishing commonsense regulations and consumer protection measures for the industry. Ten states have recently passed laws regulating fantasy sports and these regulations have proven to be successful. SB 592 is based on the best components of fantasy sports laws from across the county, with the appropriate Florida-specific adjustments to serve the Sunshine State.
“Today, more than 3 million Floridians participate in fantasy sports. This bill ensures the games they love will continue to be legal in the State of Florida, while adding several consumer protection measures,” said Senator Young. “The relevant laws on the books were written a long, long time ago in a different era, and they need to be updated to reflect current technology and to ensure that our friends and neighbors who enjoy fantasy sports can do so without any legal ambiguity.”
Key consumer protection measures in the legislation include:
Instituting restrictions on who may compete in fantasy games, including barring the operator, employees of the operator, and family members of the operator from play, as well as preventing employees of the game operator from sharing confidential information that could affect fantasy game play;
Verifying fantasy contest participants are 18 years of age or older;
Restricting any individual who is a player, game official, or other participant in a real-world competition from participating in any related fantasy contest;
Disclosing the number of fantasy contests a single participant may enter and prevent contest participants from entering more than the allowable number of fantasy games;
Segregating contest participants’ funds from operational funds and maintaining a reserve to ensure fantasy players will have access to their funds at all times;
Requiring all fantasy sports companies offering fantasy games in the State of Florida to annually contract with a third party to perform an independent audit, consistent with the standards established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, to ensure compliance with all of the requirements of the new law; and,
Clarification that NCAA sports will not be included in fantasy contests.
“On behalf of the millions of Floridians for whom fantasy sports is a fun and engaging pastime, I look forward to working with my colleagues during the 2017 Legislative Session to pass this needed law clarifying the legality of fantasy sports,” concluded Senator Young.
Governor Rick Scott announced today his “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget which proposes $618 million in tax cuts to help Florida families and small businesses. The Governor’s recommended budget also invests record funding in Florida’s education system, strengthens environmental protection efforts, supports law enforcement and fights for Florida’s growing job market.
Governor Scott said, “Florida businesses have added more than 1.2 million jobs over the last six years and our economy is booming because of our continued focus on cutting taxes, reducing burdensome regulations and fostering an environment where job creators can grow and succeed in Florida. Our ‘Fighting for Florida’s Future’ budget continues our hard work and cuts taxes by $618 million while making strategic investments in areas that are important to families. Because our economy continues to grow, we are able to make these investments while also paying down debt and setting aside $5 billion in reserves. I look forward to working with the Legislature this session to make Florida the best place in the world for our future generations.” Cuts Taxes and Fees
The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget proposes to cut taxes by more than $618 million including decreasing the tax on business rents,providing a one-year sales tax exemption on college textbooks, cutting the business tax, exempting school book fairs from the sales tax and implementing a 10-day back-to-school sales tax holiday, nine-day disaster preparedness sales tax holiday, three-day veteran’s sales tax holiday and one-day camping and fishing sales tax holiday.
Governor Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget also includes $8.1 million in additional annual fee cuts for Florida’s seniors, teachers, veterans and businesses, all while maintaining the quality of services provided. Grows the Economy
Florida has created more than 1.25 million jobs in just six years and Governor Scott will keep fighting for jobs until his last day in office. The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget recommends $85 million for economic incentives for the sole purpose of bringing more jobs to Florida and supporting small businesses. Invests in Education
The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget invests historic funding in Florida’s education system to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed in the Sunshine State. Historic investments include:
Nearly $21 billion in state and local funding through the Florida Educational Finance Program (FEFP) for Florida’s K-12 public schools which equates to $7,421 per student. This is the highest total funding, state funding and per-student funding for K-12 in Florida’s history.
Governor Scott is also recommending a historic $6.6 billion in total funding for higher education in Florida which includes increased funding for the Bright Futures Scholarship program. There are also NO tuition increases included in the budget.
Protects the Environment
The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget invests nearly $4 billion in Florida’s environment which includes:
$360 million for water quality projects which includes record funding once again for Florida’s springs of $65 million and $60 million for the new Indian River Lagoon and Caloosahatchee Clean-Up Initiative; and
$225 million for Everglades restoration.
Keeps Families Healthy
The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget makes important investments which include:
More than $1 billion in mental health and substance abuse funding, including $18.7 million for community-based behavioral health services;
A record $632 million to provide core services to children who depend on Florida’s child welfare system; and
More than $7.4 million to remove everyone off of the critical needs waiting list at the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) for the fourth consecutive year.
Builds Strong Communities
The “Fighting for Florida’s Future” budget invests more than $5.1 billion in public safety and makes important investments to support Florida’s dedicated law enforcement officers. Key public safety investments include:
$14.6 million to award Florida’s nearly 4,800 sworn state law enforcement officers with a five percent pay raise;
$5.8 million to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to hire 46 new employees dedicated to counterterrorism; and
More than $45 million to increase the pay of Florida’s correctional and correctional probation officers.
The Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) invites customers of Utilities Inc. of Florida (Utilities, Inc.) to participate in customer service hearings in Altamonte Springs and Lakeland on the utility’s petition for a water and wastewater rate increase. The hearings will allow customers to provide public comment on Utilities Inc.’s rate request. Customer input will be taken into consideration when the Commission considers this request.
The service hearings are scheduled for the following times and locations:
Thursday, February 2, 2017 9:30 a.m.
Eastmonte Civic Center
830 Magnolia Drive
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
6:00 p.m.
Cypress Lakes Clubhouse
10000 US Hwy 98 N
Lakeland, FL 32820
In August 2016, Utilities Inc. filed a petition with the PSC to increase its water and wastewater rates. Utilities Inc. provides service to 27 systems in Charlotte, Highlands, Lake, Lee, Marion, Orange, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Seminole Counties.
For additional information, visit www.floridapsc.com.
Follow the PSC on Twitter, @floridapsc.
